Looking back on the last year, 2021 saw the ongoing impact of the Coronavirus pandemic and further lockdowns impacting on both Orwell and our residents. Despite those impacts, restrictions and challenges I am very proud of the progress we have been able to make in relation to our strategic plan and the commitment and hard work of ‘Team Orwell’ has again shone through. 

Our work with residents in relation to Tenant Involvement and Empowerment also continued to make excellent progress with the launch of our Customer Engagement and Tenancy Sustainment Strategy. Further Resident Scrutiny reviews have also been completed as well as co-creation events with Residents and we have successfully recruited two Resident Board Members to the Board. The Tenancy Sustainment Team have also had an excellent first year and delivered some excellent outcomes to enable residents to remain in their homes.

What our team have been able to achieve in 2021 is truly remarkable and we look forward to continuing this great work during 2022.

I have been a member of the residents group since last December, so I am a relatively new member and thought I would tell you about my experience. From the beginning I have been made to feel very welcome by members and staff alike. We have looked at some Orwell policies. Most recently we discussed updating the pet policy, which I believe you will soon all be receiving a copy of, (if you haven’t already, by the time this is published). Presently, we are discussing the anti-social behaviour policy.

I enjoy being a member of the residents group. I think we are privileged to be able to contribute to some of the decision making. I have already learned so much about housing law and regulations, as well as Orwell policies. I would recommend thinking about joining us to anyone who wants to know how a housing association works. Whether you are really happy with how things are going, or feeling a little disgruntled, do something positive, and know your voice will be heard.  I look forward to meeting you.