getting involved

Customer Conference 2009 feedback Customer Conference 2009 Report Appendix A  Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D  Appendix E  Appendix F Appendix G

whg is committed to involving our customers. We are introducing new ways in which you, our customer, can become involved. We are looking for the sort of people who want to make a real difference in their community by working with us.

What are the different ways to get involved? 

We know that not everyone wants to be on a committee and that time is limited for many people. We also know that people have different interests and experiences. So we've developed a range of ways people can be involved, from those that take just a few minutes every few months to those that will take more time and commitment. 

Tenant board members

For those with the time to spare, you could consider becoming a local neighbourhood board member. Each of the six local neighbourhood areas which make up whg has its own board. The boards are made up of five tenant members, three independent members and one member nominated from the local authority. The five tenant members are selected via an election process.

Board members have an important role within whg, monitoring its performance and ensuring that money is well spent.

What if I don't have so much time?

If you want to be involved in other ways, you can get involved through:  

• survey groups - postal or phone
• focus groups -one off meetings to discuss a particular aspect of the service
• estate tours - walk around an estate and highlight issues that need addressing
• an editorial group for the customer newsletter
• reading group - take part from home by commenting on draft policies and leaflets
• residents' associations
• customer panels - monthly meetings with managers looking at specific parts of the service e.g. repairs, allocations, tenancy management - view the 2010 meeting schedule (new window)  by clicking on the link 
• mystery shoppers and tenant inspectors - test our services and tell us what you think of them.

What are the benefits? 

By being involved, you get a real chance to air your views and an opportunity to make a difference to your community. You will also get the chance to see how the group works and to develop your skills.

What does whg get from involving tenants?

Our business is to provide good quality housing whilst providing best value for money. We have a responsibility to engage with customers and we want to hear your views and work with you to make the services better. Customers see the service from a different perspective which  and helps us to make the right changes in your area.
 

What support is given?

We provide training, information and support, so customers are well informed and feel confident in being involved. We are here to help you whichever way you choose.  

Who can get involved?

Everyone who is a tenant of whg can get involved. If you would like to know more about getting involved or would like to book a place at any of our customer panel meetings, you can contact the Customer Services Team on the number below:  

Outcomes of our involvement activities