Influencing Big Decisions
The National Housing Federation's recently published Voluntary Merger Code provides a framework for Registered Provider boards and executives to work to, having decided that a merger, group structure or other partnership "is the best way forward for their organisations and tenants".However, despite some solid guidance from Savilles, the complete omission of the engagement of tenants in influencing and having a voice in collaboration is deafening.
In fact the word 'tenant' only appears once in the entire guidance - despite merger, group structure and partnership opportunities being key to strategic discussions around how to achieve business objectives and maximise value for current and future tenants.
Take a further search of words like 'consult', 'rights', 'vote', 'customer' or 'involvement' and you draw a blank - despite boards remaining accountable to stakeholders for informed decision making, and Consumer Standards setting out in black and white the need for opportunities for tenants to influence strategic priorities and how services themselves are delivered.
I'm absolutely determined to turn the tide for resident rights and equip them with the skills and knowledge to influence these big decisions - and very happy to actively support Tpas develop an 'alternative merger code' that truly places power and influence in service redesign in the hands of landlords' largest stakeholder - the tenants themselves.
More soon ...
'Alternative' merger code - Inside Housing 03 05 16
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