Tenant involvement

West Devon Homes is committed to involving tenants in the important decisions that are made which affect the services we provide. Tenant Involvement is vital to ensure that information and ideas are shared which can then be used to formulate the most effective policies that reflect what you, as tenants, wish to see. As your landlord, West Devon Homes is keen to support and encourage tenants to have an input into the day to day management of their homes.

The inclusion of 3 tenants as Tenant Trustees on the Board of Management indicates our desire to ensure the views of tenants are always paramount when decisions are being taken.

In addition, the Company also supports a Tenants' Panel which includes the Tenant Trustees and 10 other elected tenant representatives. The panel allows tenants to have a direct say over the policies considered by the Board of Management. The panel has its own budget for administration, training and expenses as well as a sum for community projects that benefit tenants in West Devon.

Any tenant can apply to become a Tenant Member of West Devon Homes. This gives you the opportunity to be actively involved in important decisions to be taken by the Company. All Tenant Members will be invited to any General Meetings called by the Company and will be free to vote on the major decisions being considered at the meeting. Remember that one third of the eligible vote is given to tenants, so your vote can be crucial. To become a Tenant Member all you need to do is complete a simple application form which can be obtained from either of our offices (01822 813770).

These are not the only methods that the Company uses to ensure effective participation and consultation. There are many different ways in which you can get involved and all are important. Some other ways you may become involved are by:

• Attending one of our regular open meetings, which will be advertised in the quarterly tenants' newsletter.
• Completing any surveys or questionnaires that are circulated from time to time.
• Simply reading the tenants' newsletter which always contains items of interest and interesting information.
• Starting a residents association with your neighbours.
• Voting for Tenant Panel members when elections are held.
• Making written suggestions of your own ideas for service improvements directly to the Chair of the Tenants' Panel. c/o West Devon Homes, The Quay, Plymouth Road, Tavistock, Devon PL19 8AB.

In some circumstances the Company will assist with costs that may be incurred by tenants attending events, such as meeting childminding or travelling costs.

If you would like to receive more information or advice about how you could become involved please contact our Neighbourhood & Communities Coordinator.