A seat at the table: Bringing diverse voices to governance structures

Inclusivity as a baseline

A seat at the table: Bringing diverse voices to governance structures

Wednesday, 23 Sep 2026 12:15 - 13:00

Too often, formal governance structures attract a narrow slice of the tenant population: those who already feel confident in institutional settings, who have time to commit, and who know that the opportunity exists in the first place. Younger tenants, those from minoritised backgrounds, people with disabilities and residents juggling work and family commitments are consistently underrepresented not because they lack the ability or the appetite, but because the structures, culture and communications around board involvement do not suit their needs and the opportunities do not reach them. This session explores what genuinely inclusive tenant governance looks like and how to make it a reality.

The session will cover:

• Understanding the barriers to inclusion

• How to actively recruit for board diversity including how to reach beyond existing networks, communicate opportunities in accessible and innovative ways

• What enabling meaningful engagement looks like once new members are on the board

In partnership with

EXHIBIT/SPONSOR

Testimonials

Alison Jenkins, tenant, Magenta Living

"What a fantastic experience as a tenant, to hear from so many passionate and inspirational professionals, who are all keen to provide their skills and knowledge to guide both landlords and residents."

Becci Gardner-Queen, housing team leader, Darlington Borough Council

"Great conference! The speakers were very knowledgable. We left feeling refreshed and armed with knowledge of what is to come and what we are preparing for."

Eileen Smith-Hughes, ClwydAlyn Housing

"Interesting and informative panels throughout the day with plenty of opportunities for discussion, questions and networking."

Elly Hoult, chief operating officer, Peabody

"The best conference I have attended this year."

Paul Singleton, strategy and customer insight director, The Hyde Group

"The conference was an excellent opportunity to engage with debate, hear inspiring stories and to stimulate thoughts about making engagement work better."

Rachael Orr, chief executive, PlaceShapers

"I really enjoyed the event. It was great to be at a housing sector conference and see so many residents and so much more diversity of attendees than you often get."

Valerie Oldfield, member of the National Housing Federation Tenant Advisory Panel

"A very engaging conference where residents and staff come together to meet, discuss and share knowledge. This is one not to miss."

Tenant and Resident Engagement CONFERENCE STARTS IN: