Following on from my last post on the consumer standard Transparency, Influence and Accountability, I’ve been reading about some great initiatives on how landlords are working harder at helping their tenants live in safer neighbourhoods.
The Neighbourhood and Community standard in the Social Housing Act emphasises the importance of creating safe, well-maintained neighbourhoods. For tenants, especially those who are vulnerable or require additional support, feeling secure in their community is fundamental to their overall wellbeing.
Here are a few key ways that improving the communities that people live in can contribute to a safer and healthier lived experience.
Connection
Safety is not just about physical security; it also involves tenants feeling valued and connected to others. Many housing providers have focused on initiatives that aim to reduce isolation that are accessible to all like fitness classes, art activities or community gardening. This helps residents build connections and a sense of belonging.
- Maintenance and upkeep of communal areas
Well-maintained properties contribute directly to tenants’ sense of safety and security. As well as the regular upkeep and maintenance of communal areas, housing providers that acknowledge, respond and resolve repairs and maintenance requests quickly demonstrate that they respect and care for the tenants’ environment. When tenants live in an environment that is visibly cared for, it instills a sense of pride and respect, reducing vandalism and creating a safer place to live.
- Collaborative support
Don’t underestimate the power of partnership and collaboration to supporting tenants. This includes local authorities taking a proactive approach and some great examples include reducing antisocial behaviour through tenant-led initiatives and neighbourhood improvement projects. By establishing these partnerships, tenants see that their landlords are committed to creating a safe community.
For tenants requiring additional support, housing providers should collaborate with not just care providers, but other organisations and charities to support wider needs, helping tenants build a more fulfilling life in their community.
- Shaping the community together
When tenants are encouraged to feedback on the wider community as well as their own home, they feel empowered and respected. Involving residents in decisions, whether through the TSMs, surveys, focus groups or tenant boards, gives them a sense of ownership over their community. Take this insight into action and create an action plan to demonstrate that their voices matter in shaping their surroundings.
Creating a truly safe neighbourhood requires housing providers to treat tenants as valued members of a community. This empathetic approach—one that listens to tenant voices, creates connection and addresses overall wellbeing. By working in partnership with local services and being responsive to tenants’ unique needs, landlords are not only enhancing community safety but also promote a supportive environment where all tenants can feel safe and respected.