A Thriving Regional Event in Cambridge: Highlights and Takeaways
Monday 30th of September 2024
On Thursday, September 26th 2024, we held a highly successful regional member event in Cambridge, kindly hosted by the CHS Group.
With over 40 attendees representing 16 organisations from across the East, the event was a fantastic opportunity for networking, learning, and collaboration.
Tpas Policy Update and News:
We kicked off the day with an insightful update on current policy developments, including significant topics such as the latest on Consumer Inspections, a review of the Grenfell Inquiry Report, and a look at the revised Tpas National Tenant Engagement Standards.
CHS Spotlight Session:
This fascinating session featured presentations from key CHS figures, including Martin Wheatley, Chair of CHS, Tina Warren, Director of Homes, and Trish Laver, Tenant Chair of Scrutiny. The session centred around an excellent scrutiny review on Damp and Mould—an issue impacting many residents.
For a deeper dive, a short video highlighting the findings and actions was shown.
Interactive Networking Session:
One of the most dynamic parts of the day was our networking session, where members came together to share what they’re excelling at and areas they need to improve or need support with.
Here’s a snapshot of the insights:
What We’re Proud Of:
• “Getting involved has boosted my confidence—something I’m really proud of.”
• “We’re part of the Age Friendly Communities network and gearing up to celebrate Older People’s Day.”
• “Community Action Days, which are planned using TSM data and staff from across the business engage directly with residents
• “Helping establish and being part of our National Customer Engagement Group.”
• “Our contractor selection panel, where we succeeded in having more tenants than staff on it.”
• “Delivering Neighbourhood Action Weeks which deliver a whole range of successful outcomes.”
• “Introducing ‘Skip Days’ so we can engage with more residents
• “Our inclusive methods that ensure all voices are heard.”
• “Launching a new Tenancy Support Initiative to assist vulnerable tenants.”
• “Presenting TSM data in accessible, user-friendly formats.”
Where We Need Support or Improvement:
• “Making sure data is used effectively to inform engagement strategies.”
• “Recruiting more people to get involved.”
• “Improving communication with residents.”
• “Tracking actions and ensuring they create tangible impact.”
Collaborative Solutions:
In a collaborative spirit, attendees shared their best tips and strategies to tackle common challenges:
1. Implement systems for logging and tracking progress.
2. Don’t settle for ‘in-progress’—always request evidence.
3. When staff don’t submit updates by the required time have it agreed that they will be required to come to a meeting to give the update instead!
4. Assign names to actions to enhance responsibility.
5. Showcase the impact of tenant involvement with a “Tenant Involvement Stamp” on any new policies or changes driven by residents.
6. Engage all staff by having them participate in community days or action weeks to meet residents firsthand.
A Special Recognition:
Finally, the day also saw Tpas present CHS tenant Jane Bird, with her well-deserved “Tpas Engagement Heroes” award for all her dedication, hard work and commitment to tenant involvement. Not only has she made a difference at CHS, but she has also been a fantastic Tpas member too, attending many of our events and consistently supporting the work that Tpas do. So it’s a big thank you from us all!
Looking Ahead:
Once again, a huge thanks to the CHS Group for hosting this event and contributing to its success. We’re already looking forward to our upcoming 2025 Regional Events.
Stay tuned for more details!