VICTORY CONJURES UP SPECIAL EVENT TO ENCOURAGE RESIDENT INVOLVEMENT

Over 200 Victory Housing trust residents witnessed the magic of getting involved in the running of their own housing association, at a special Residents’ Assembly event held at Davenport’s Magic Kingdom in North Walsham to encourage residents to apply for a vacancy on the Trust’s Residents’ Panel.

The festive family experience was designed to be a fun way of engaging with residents, who enjoyed a magic show and a buffet lunch, as well as meeting members of Victory staff and the Residents’ Panel.

The Panel has responsibility for all resident involvement activity, as well as promoting effective working between Victory residents, Board and staff.  The Panel ensures that the views of Victory residents are heard, and that their opinions are taken into account in the Trust’s decision-making.

“We have a very good track record of involving our residents in all aspects of what we do,” said Christine Candlish, Victory’s assistant director of housing.  “We try to make the experience enjoyable as well as useful for residents, and our Residents Assembly was able to combine both aspects, and gave us a chance to thank our residents for the input they have given us over the past year.”

Victory Residents’ Panel chair Mike Gates commented, “The Panel represents the views of all residents, so it’s important that we attract a good cross-section to participate.  The Panel is the chance for Victory residents to give our considered view to the Trust, so that Victory can take our opinions into account when it makes important decisions which affect residents.

“Being a member of the Residents’ Panel is also a great way to learn new skills and gain experience, and we receive regular training and support.  I would urge any Victory resident who cares about the way their home is managed to get involved.”

The Victory Residents’ Panel:

• Scrutinises key service areas and performance information, and makes recommendations for improvements that will benefit existing and future Victory residents
• Manages and co-ordinates a range of activities that ensure residents can have a say and influence services
• Ensures that residents’ views are reflected in corporate strategy and policy, and other key decisions
• Assesses the effectiveness and value for money of resident involvement.

Victory residents who are interested in joining the Residents’ Panel or getting involved can contact Victory by email at residentspanel@victoryhousing.co.uk, or by phone on 0800 371 860.  More details about Victory resident involvement can be found at www.victoryhousing.co.uk/get-involved.