Six Midlands-based social and charitable housing providers have joined forces to give residents a stronger voice, including Broadening Choices for Older People (BCOP), Harborne Parish Lands Charity (HPLC), Lench’s Trust, Sir Josiah Mason Trust (SJMT), Yardley Great Trust (YGT) and Solihull Care Housing Association (SCHA).  

The newly launched Residents’ Scrutiny Panel (RSP) uniquely brings groups of residents together to discuss the quality of services at each of their schemes and share ideas for improvements with landlords. It expands on the previous RSP, formed of four of the organisations, which won an Almshouse Association award but was put on hold due to the pandemic.

Twenty-five residents participated in the re-launch meeting in April, where they discussed which areas were of greatest interest for influencing decision-making.

Attendees included Jonathan and Cherry who live at SCHA. Jonathan said: “I like the principle of being concerned with and interested in the resident’s experience. It will be interesting to see how it develops as the panel gets beneath hearsay to listen to people’s experiences and what it’s like to live in these schemes.”

Cherry, who joined the RSP at the suggestion of her scheme manager, added: “It’s great to learn and hear different opinions and voices. Everyone brings something to the table. I’m really looking forward to the journey!”

Commenting on the RSP, Chrissy, who lives at Lench’s Trust, said: “I wanted to get involved because I feel we should have a voice. I’m looking forward to seeing it all come together step by step.”

Pat, who represented SJMT and YGT said: “It’s great! I think it’s a really good idea and it’s something that’s needed. It allows you to see how other trusts work and meet new people.”

Margaret, an HPLC resident, said: “I’m impressed! Emma, the facilitator, was excellent. I got involved as I would like to know what happens in other schemes compared to where I live and what improvements can be made across the sector.” BCOP resident, Lynn, was also impressed. She added: “The RSP is a good way to give tenants a voice so they can be heard by management.”

The meeting was held at Lench’s Trust, and non-residents were offered a tour of the scheme to gain even more ideas for their own homes.

David Healey, Partnership Chief Executive for SJMT and YGT, said:

“I’m delighted that new partners have joined the project, giving even more residents the opportunity to have a say and enable services to continuously improve. Residents have a unique perspective and can now play an even greater role in shaping their communities by sharing good practice between the organisations and holding management to account.”

posted 20 May 2025