Issue - meetings

The Board considered a report setting out proposals for the creation of an inter-tenure consultation group.

It was noted that the group would assist the IHB tackle over-arching housing challenges by providing an opportunity for a broad range of Borough based groups, with an interest and awareness of the housing issues facing Haringey, to consider proposals and initiatives under the Boards responsibility.

It was proposed that the Board would meet on a half-yearly basis and that it should consist of tenants and residents associations, Housing Associations and RSL’s. The group would also include private landlords and representatives from ethnic minority groups.

The Chair noted that representatives from tenants associations were already attended several existing forums. In contrast, there was no provision with the proposed structure for representatives from private tenants forums or people living in temporary accommodation. It was noted that the Audit Commission was likely to pick up on this.

The Board was advised that it may be preferable to hold the meetings on an annual basis as this would be more manageable and prevent possible overlaps. At present a data base of people, who would received regular information and be asked for their comments, was being compiled. This would also help improve the service and better address the needs of tenants.

In response to a query, the Board was advised that consideration had been given to using the Area Assemblies as a forum to consult with the public. However, this proposal not been accepted and was not taken forward.

There was a general consensus that the rather than forming a group that met on a quarterly or twice yearly basis an annual conference should be held.  

RESOLVED:

That a conference should be held on an annual basis to look at Inter-Tenure issues.