“Joining Tenant Involvement has given me back the feeling of being useful. Everyone is friendly and I feel safe in the environment. I have learnt so much and hope to volunteer well into the future.”
Tenant Ambassador
"Thank you for considering being a volunteer with Oxford City Council’s Tenant and Leaseholder Ambassador Team.
Our Ambassadors are a dedicated and passionate group, who all come from different walks of life and bring different experiences. The thing we are most proud of is the way we work together and make sure that every voice is listened to.
It is an exciting time to join Oxford City Council’s Tenant Involvement due to the release of the government’s Social Housing White Paper. We have big ambitions and an excellent team, who strive to make sure our values shine through everything we do to change and improve your customer journey."
Lee Clayson – Tenant Involvement Officer.
The Significance of the Social Housing White Paper for Oxford City Council Tenants and Leaseholders
The availability of safe, affordable, and adequate housing is a fundamental human right and a key determinant of social well-being. In the United Kingdom, social housing plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals and families have access to decent living conditions.
The Social Housing White Paper (SHWP) represents a significant milestone in the effort to improve the lives of tenants and leaseholders across the country. In particular, its impact resonates strongly with the residents of Oxford, where housing services provided by the City Council play an integral role in shaping the local community.
Understanding the Social Housing White Paper
The SHWP, released by the UK government, outlines a comprehensive framework aimed at transforming the social housing sector. The paper addresses several key areas, including tenant and leaseholder engagement, safety regulations, and accountability (to view the full document visit the charter for social housing residents: social housing white paper page on GOV.UK and click on the pdf). Its central goal is ‘to place residents at the heart of decision-making processes, making sure that their voices are heard, and their concerns addressed.’
The Importance of Tenant and Leaseholder Involvement
For the residents of Oxford, the implications of the Social Housing White Paper cannot be overstated.
- Tenant and leaseholder involvement is a cornerstone of the paper's vision, as it recognises that those who live in social housing have a unique perspective and valuable insights that should inform policy and practice.
- The SHWP encourages housing providers, including Oxford City Council (OCC), to create opportunities for tenants and leaseholders to actively engage in shaping housing services. This empowerment not only gives residents a sense of ownership over their living conditions but also fosters a stronger sense of community.
- Your input can lead to more responsive and effective housing services. By participating in decision-making processes, residents can contribute to the design of policies, maintenance schedules, and amenities that directly address their needs and preferences.
- You can hold housing providers accountable for the quality of services they deliver. By having a say in the decision-making process, you can make sure that your concerns are heard and acted upon promptly.
- The SHWP recognises that strong communities are built on active participation and shared values. Your involvement in housing services can help foster a sense of belonging and unity among residents, leading to a more vibrant and supportive neighbourhood.
Getting Involved with Oxford City Council Housing Services
OCC plays a pivotal role in providing housing services to its residents. To ensure that the principles outlined in the SHWP are effectively implemented, it is essential for you to actively engage with the Council's housing initiatives.
Flexible Opportunities
You choose how and when you want to give your time. This could be a couple of hours a month or simply responding to the odd survey we send out by email.
Meet New People
Embrace the community; learn about people by embracing equality and diversity.
Learn New Skills
Learn from each other through shared experience, knowledge and empathy. Understand how your council delivers services to you.
If you’d like to find out more information about getting involved, please contact The Tenant Involvement Team on 01865 249811 or email tinvolvement@oxford.gov.uk
or use our online form:
Join Tenant Involvement online form
We look forward to starting a conversation with you.
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