Swindon Borough Council is calling on residents living in council-owned homes to step forward and share their views, as part of a new drive to shape the future of housing services in the town.
As part of a series of dedicated tenant engagement sessions, senior councillors and housing officers will meet directly with tenants at four public events taking place across the borough this June. The ‘Let’s Talk Housing’ initiative is being led by Councillor Janine Howarth, Cabinet Member for Housing, who will be joined by the Council’s interim Director of Housing, Andrew McDonald.
Each session will provide tenants with an honest update following a recent inspection by the Regulator of Social Housing and outline the Council’s £250 million investment plans aimed at improving council homes over the next five years. Planned upgrades include new kitchens, bathrooms, windows, and roofs, as part of the newly launched Housing Asset Management Strategy.
Importantly, tenants attending will be asked to share their own experiences and feedback. This includes completing a survey on Tenant Satisfaction Measures, taking part in a practical engagement activity to help shape a new tenant handbook, and reporting any outstanding issues directly to officers on the night.
The four events, all free to attend, are being held at various locations to maximise access for residents:
Tuesday 10 June – Park Library, Cavendish Square, 6pm to 8pm
Wednesday 11 June – West Swindon Library (Link Centre), 6.30pm to 8.30pm
Saturday 14 June – Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square, 11am to 1pm
Tuesday 17 June – John Moulton Hall, Penhill Drive, 6pm to 8pm
Councillor Howarth said: “If you’re a tenant in one of our homes, your voice matters. We understand there’s work to do, and this is a real opportunity to tell us where improvements are needed. Whether you sign up online or simply drop in, you’ll be given a platform to speak directly with us.”
Those wishing to attend can register online at swindon.gov.uk/tenantevents or contact their housing officer to confirm a place.
With rising costs, ageing stock and a renewed focus on tenant wellbeing, the Council’s message is clear – meaningful change starts by listening.
