Tenants need to have a voice

Social housing tenants still face negative stereotyping. Some people continue to say tenants are lazy, unemployed, scroungers, who are undereducated and cause anti-social behaviour. The truth is very different; social tenants come from a variety of backgrounds and represent all walks of life. 

Due to the cost of living crisis, the need for social housing is higher than it ever has been. I never thought I would need to apply for social housing until I developed a life changing illness and lost my privately rented home in 2015. I swallowed my pride and started the process of rebuilding my life, finding a home for me and my daughter. I started working at 17-years-old but it was when I was employed as an important key worker with a first-class degree, that my life changed. I didn’t match the social housing stereotype but I still faced negativity, just because life had taken a bad turn through no fault of my own.  

In 2016, I had a home and wanted to give something back to the housing association that I rented from. I heard about residents who were involved in shaping their community and housing association. I discovered that I could have a say in my future and make my voice heard. 

Soha Housing in South Oxfordshire encourages its tenants to get involved and offers many roles. It ensures everyone’s views are heard because the changes directly affect those living in its properties. Soha provides opportunities for tenants within its members forum, tenant groups and the board to name a few. This allows tenants to be meaningfully represented in all areas of the business, influencing decisions and shaping the future.  

Soha offers training and support to its involved tenants; this made a huge difference to me. My confidence grew and I applied for a board position and was elected to represent tenants. I listen to tenants and make sure they are not forgotten or given a lower priority level. I believe housing associations don’t truly know what’s really happening without listening to tenants.   

In 2021, I became vice chair of the group and truly believe tenants can be heard within my housing association and this does make a difference. Sadly, I know this is not the case across all housing associations. I always ask myself why wouldn’t they want to hear from the tenants living in their properties? The tenants know what needs changing, can offer frank and open conversations and suggest future ideas to help build better communities.