Why you should consider becoming a tenant board member
For our current Tenant Board Member Karen Littler, joining the Board was driven by a desire to make sure tenants’ views were represented at the highest level.
“I decided to become a tenant board member because I thought it was a really good opportunity to make sure the tenant voice was at the heart of everything.”
The role allows tenants to contribute to strategic decisions that shape services, housing standards and the future direction of Ocean Housing. One concern people often have about becoming a Board Member is whether they have the right experience.
So, that’s why we have designed a Tenant Board Member Development Programme.
The programme is designed to help tenants build their confidence and understanding over 12 months, covering everything from how the Board operates and makes decisions to understanding performance, risk and business planning. It provides the practical knowledge needed to contribute effectively at Board level.
Karen was surprised by how much guidance she received when she first joined the Board as our tenant voice.
“I think what surprised me most about the role was how supportive the team were and how much time they put into making sure I had the information I needed to be able to influence and advocate for tenants in decision-making.”
Board Members play an important role in overseeing how Ocean Housing operates, invests and delivers services. From improving homes and customer experience to supporting new initiatives, tenant input helps shape our key priorities.
An area that has stood out for Karen during her tenure is Ocean’s commitment to investing in homes.
“I think the most rewarding part has been understanding how Ocean Housing cares about its tenants and how it invests in its homes, particularly the energy efficiency programme.”
The role of a Board Member is different from raising individual service issues or campaigning for changes in a particular neighbourhood. Board Members are responsible for taking a strategic, organisation-wide view, considering what’s best for all customers and communities across Ocean Housing.
Decisions made by the Board often focus on long-term priorities such as investing in homes, improving services, managing risk, delivering value for money and ensuring the organisation remains financially strong for future generations. This means looking at the bigger picture and balancing the needs of thousands of residents rather than advocating for a single street, estate or individual concern.
Board Members are encouraged to think strategically, ask questions, analyse information and provide constructive challenge when needed.
As well as gaining new knowledge, participants on the Tenant Board Member Development Programme have the opportunity to develop valuable skills that can benefit them both personally and professionally.
Deisgnate Chair of the Board, Alan Brunt believes tenant representation is an essential part of good governance.
“It’s a reminder of what we’re all about as an organisation. Tenants bring something really special to the discussions that we have, and it’s their lived experience of living in the homes we provide. No other Board Members around the table can provide that. The direction of a discussion might be going in one direction and then, after hearing a tenant’s perspective, it might completely change the discussion and the ultimate decision. I’ve seen that happen time and time again.”
For anyone considering applying, it’s important to remember that Ocean isn’t expecting applicants to arrive with years of governance or board experience. Instead, we’re looking for people who care about their communities, have an interest in improving services and are willing to learn.
During the interview process, applicants will have the opportunity to demonstrate qualities such as:
- A passion for representing the views of tenants and customers.
- Good communication and listening skills.
- Curiosity and a willingness to ask questions.
- The ability to consider different perspectives before reaching a conclusion.
- Sound judgement and integrity.
- An interest in helping Ocean continue to improve its services and homes.
- A commitment to learning and personal development.
Experience gained through work, volunteering, community groups, resident involvement or simply managing everyday responsibilities can all provide valuable examples of these skills. Lived experience as a tenant is a perspective that cannot be taught and is something the Ocean Board values deeply.
For Karen, the opportunity has been about far more than attending meetings.
“I’d encourage anyone who wants to make a difference and is willing to learn to put themselves forward.”