The Disability Forum is one of our Resident Engagement Networks and provides an inclusive space for people with disabilities to have a say about living with Housing 21.  

A message from joint Chairs, Vera Deacon (Project and Change Manager) and Nicky Lobenham (Operations Manager - North/East London):  

“The Forum came together in July and as the new Chairs, we were very excited to meet everyone and learn more about their experiences and why they are part of the group. We wanted to take the opportunity to give you all a brief summary of the meeting, so you can learn more about the impact the group makes, and how you can play a part by joining.  

“The main aim of the group is to give our residents a voice and the opportunity to influence positive change. As new chairs, we discussed how they would like to do this and decided on the following:  

• Being involved in policy reviews 
• Sharing blogs about their lived experiences 
• Inviting colleagues from across the organisation to attend meetings to share what they do and discuss how they can engage with the disability focus group

“Following this, we’re excited to invite Asset Management to our next meeting to find out how residents can be more involved in the planning of new developments and find out more information about remodeling works, repairs, compliance and fire safety.  

“Angela Hill, Project and Change Manager, and Jo Kinsella, Housing Quality and Standards Lead, have invited group members to co-produce the group on the Anti-Social Behaviour policy review and invite them to co-produce the new policy. 

“The group is also a safe space for residents to feedback on any issues or concerns with Housing 21 services. Members of the group raised concerns about Appello communication and response times, and we are inviting colleagues to the meeting to discuss our ongoing work to improve Appello. They also raised the issue of reporting accidents in communal areas when managers are off-site, we explained the process for reporting accidents and have spoken to the Marketing and Communications Team about sharing it more widely with residents.  

“If you would like to get involved with the group, please get in touch with us through the email addresses below or contact your scheme manager. Our next meeting is Friday 6 September at 11am.” 

Vera Deacon: Vera.Deacon@housing21.org.uk

Nicky Lobenham: Nicky.Lobendhan@housing21.org.uk