Getting Involved

The Association is committed to the rights of Residents to be involved in the management of their homes. The resident involvement policy can be viewed here.

The following opportunities for residents to become involved are available:

Board Member
Two places on the Board are allocated to Residents of the Association. All members of the Board are volunteers and decide on key issues of the Association’s policy, strategy and areas of business.

Focus Groups
There are currently 4 groups based in Darlington, Hull, Newcastle and York made up of Residents who meet quarterly (or more often if necessary) to discuss changes to policies, procedures or changes to service provision. They review all of the Associations policies and comment on any amendments they feel necessary. Their opinions are sought on a variety of subjects affecting the way we deliver our services and can change the way services are shaped.

Armchair Monitors
Because of the location of our properties and Residents individual circumstances we realise that not all of our Residents can or want to attend meetings. Therefore we offer Residents the chance to comment on our services without the need to leave home. Armchair monitors have volunteered to be contacted in a way that suits them best (either by phone, letter or e-mail). They will be asked to comment on a variety of subjects maybe a specific subject such as rents, or the service they received the last time they contacted the Association, they may be asked to review one of the shorter policies. Armchair monitors are invited to attend occasional meetings but there is no obligation to attend.

Residents Associations
Residents are encouraged and helped to set up Associations. These groups can provide a voice for Residents on a range of local issues (not just housing). Properly managed Residents Associations that act for the benefit of all Residents in a scheme or area are encouraged and supported.

Face to Face Meetings
Twice yearly meetings are held at each sheltered scheme to consult with Residents to discuss issues that affect their homes and the services provided at the scheme. Twice yearly home visits are offered to all other Residents giving them an opportunity to discuss any aspect of their dealings with the Association and express their views.

Newsletter
The newsletter is published at least three times a year and overseen by a small editorial group of residents.

Resident Satisfaction survey
A satisfaction survey is carried out every two years to monitor Residents satisfaction with the service they receive form the Association.

Contract monitoring
Residents’ views are taken into account when monitoring contractors performance a satisfaction slip is sent out for every repair and the feedback provided is used when deciding whether or not to continue using a Contractor.

If you want any further information about getting involved please contact your Housing Officer or call us on 0300 123 0734. Alternatively you can email us at housing@railwayha.co.uk .