Residents help to drive positive change across social housing in Richmond

One year on from the launch of Richmond’s Social Housing Improvement Plan (SHIP), growing number of residents have been empowered to take the lead on driving housing improvements across the borough. 

Launched in November 2024, the plan was developed in partnership by Richmond Council, residents, housing associations and key partners in the voluntary and community sector. Data from the social housing regulator and the housing ombudsman shows that social housing standards are already improving across the borough.  

Comprising five commitments for housing associations, the Social Housing Improvement Plan empowers residents to actively shape their communities by raising concerns, suggesting solutions, and leading local improvement projects. 

In the past year positive action has been taken following the establishment of the SHIP, thanks to 24 Community Ambassadors who stepped forward to represent their communities and provide liaison with the four main housing associations operating in Richmond (RHP, PA Housing, L&Q, and MTVH). 

Through this process, over 120 repairs have been raised, regular estate inspections with the community ambassadors have begun across 10 different estates, and over 200 residents have provided feedback on their housing in one-on-one conversations at dedicated events. 

Community Ambassadors have been invaluable in representing residents and providing a meaningful link to housing associations. The more experienced ambassadors are developing their scrutiny skills to the extent that they are taking part in decision making at a higher level. As such, one Ambassador now sits on the Board Committee of their own housing association.

Community Ambassador and social housing tenant, Catherine Pickering said: “The SHIP provides the opportunity for social housing tenants to scrutinise decisions and actions of their landlords in a meaningful way. Tenants can now attend Council committee meetings, ask questions about repair plans, complaints, and how much say we have in key decisions. It also creates a shared platform where tenants from different housing associations can work together to bring positive change to our communities.” 

Councillor Chris Varley, Lead Member for Housing said: “One year on from the launch of this landmark plan we are seeing real progress being made. Residents are empowered to take the lead, and landlords are really listening to them. We owe thanks to the Community Ambassadors who have stepped forward and brought this concept to life; their time and knowledge of their neighbourhoods is invaluable. 

“It is important that everyone in Richmond is safe and happy in their home, regardless of who manages it. That’s why we will continue to make sure housing associations make good on the commitments in the SHIP, which builds on our commitment to a fairer borough.” 

Alongside building new affordable homes for residents, Richmond Council launched the SHIP to ensure that as existing homes get older, the right investments are made to improve conditions and drive better health and wellbeing for tenants.