This week marks National Involvement Week, a celebration of tenant engagement and the powerful impact of tenant voices at Red Kite Community Housing. Throughout the week, we’ve been showcasing how tenant-led groups and panels drive positive change, ensuring our services truly reflect the needs and aspirations of our communities.
At the heart of Red Kite’s approach is our Development Panel, a dedicated group of tenant volunteers who help shape new homes from the ground up. Their involvement goes beyond consultation; they select contractors, choose finishes, and ensure every property feels like home. Seeing their ideas brought to life is a testament to collaboration and care, with every new development reflecting the voices and values of our tenants.
Tenant volunteers also lead the way in supporting community initiatives. This year, feedback from tenants led to changes in our Springboard Fund, making it easier for tenants in our sheltered schemes to apply for grants. The result? A 50% increase in applications and support for six sheltered schemes, enabling events like VE Day buffets, fish and chip nights, seaside trips, and more.
One tenant shared:
“The application process was so simple, and we even have a bit of money left over for a Christmas afternoon tea.”
The Springboard Panel, made up of ten tenant volunteers, continues to bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm to every decision.
Our Environmental Improvement Group (EIG) demonstrates the difference tenant-led projects make in our communities. The Downley Skip Day, funded by EIG and championed by local tenants and Councillor Maz Hussain, brought residents together for a community clean-up, tackling fly-tipping and helping neighbours dispose of bulky waste responsibly. This event is just one example of how tenant involvement drives positive change, making our neighbourhoods cleaner, safer, and more connected.
The Core Procurement Group (CPG) and Resident Representative Team (RRT) are key partnership groups at Red Kite. CPG volunteers have helped shape procurement activities, encouraging collaboration and new ways of working. Meanwhile, RRT members are consulted on key service changes, scrutinise issues like damp and mould, and ensure recommendations are acted upon. Their influence is felt across repairs, complaints, health and safety, rent, estates, volunteering, and tenant engagement. This year, RRT is focusing on improving energy performance in our homes, driving real change for tenant wellbeing and sustainability.
Sanjay, our Digital Engagement Specialist said:
“National Involvement Week is a great reminder of why tenant voices matter so much to us. Every idea and piece of feedback helps shape the way we work and the services we deliver. Seeing the impact of our tenant-led panels and groups shows what being truly tenant-led looks like. It’s not just involvement; it’s partnership, and it makes Red Kite stronger.”
Thank you to every tenant who gets involved, shares their insight, and helps us build a better future together.
Do you want to join the team and volunteer with us?
We're always on the look out for new faces to join our friendly team of volunteers. Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience and really help make a difference. Give us a call on 01494 476100 or send us an email at contact@redkitehousing.org.uk to find out more.
