Decision
Analysis
outcome: The outcome of the decision was to approve the draft Tenant Engagement Strategy for consultation.
summary: The decision at stake is whether to approve the draft Tenant Engagement Strategy for formal consultation.
topline: The Cabinet has decided to approve the draft Tenant Engagement Strategy for formal consultation.
reason_contentious: This issue is not particularly contentious as it focuses on improving tenant engagement and empowerment.
affected_stakeholders: ["Tenants", "Cabinet members", "Council officers"]
contentiousness_score: 2
political_party_relevance: There are no mentions or implications of political parties or political influence on the decision.
URL: https://democracy.canterbury.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1624
Decision Maker: Cabinet
Outcome: Recommendations Approved
Is Key Decision?: No
Is Callable In?: No
Purpose:
Content: Councillor Hazelton introduced the report that sought Cabinet’s approval to consult on the draft Tenant Engagement Strategy. There were three options in the report for Cabinet to consider: Option 1 : Approve the draft strategy for formal consultation. Option 2: Delay consultation. Option 3: Do not consult formally. The Cabinet discussed the report, and the following points were made: It was noted that after the portfolio holder attended the recent REP (residents engagement panel) meeting we were dismayed to learn that REP had not had prior sight of the draft. Both she and senior officers had apologised for this omission and assured that specific workshop sessions would be held with tenant representatives during the consultation period. Officers also apologised for the confusion around the strategy process, as although their input had been used to inform the strategy, it hadn’t be suitably clear that was the case and confirmed that dedicated tenant workshops would take place. Questions were raised about reaching underrepresented age groups, particularly tenants with young families and the elderly, given that most respondents were typically aged 55-72. Officers outlined plans for summer events on estates and consideration of hybrid meetings to help those with caring responsibilities. The REP member appointment process and ways to reach diverse demographics, such as through hybrid meetings, were discussed. Discussion took place on complaint handling reporting and how tenant feedback would be evidenced in policy development through equalities impact assessments. Support was expressed for the strategy's focus on empowering tenants and the commitment to having tenants at the heart of everything the council does. It was confirmed a Scrutiny Sub committee, with a remit yet to be finalised, was to be set up to scrutinise the improvements to the housing service and that the delivery of this strategy could be included in that. It was proposed, seconded and when put to a recorded vote RESOLVED: To approve the draft Tenant Engagement Strategy (Appendix A) for consultation. Record of the voting: For (8): Councillors Baldock, Castle, Dawkins, Charlotte Cornell, Chris Cornell, Hazelton, Ricketts and Sole. Against: None Abstained: None Reason for the decision: This allows for further input from tenants, in line with established best practice, which can inform the final version of the strategy and action plan. It also maintains regulatory momentum, responds positively to tenant feedback and ensures that the final strategy reflects tenants’ priorities before adoption later this year.
Date of Decision: July 7, 2025