Talking about tomorrow: Challenging harmful narratives inside and outside social housing

Plenary

Talking about tomorrow: Challenging harmful narratives inside and outside social housing

Wednesday, 23 Sep 2026 16:00 - 16:45

Harmful narratives linking lack of housing provision with immigration are circulating widely and causing real damage, both to community cohesion and to the safety of residents from minority backgrounds. Within the sector, the language used by professionals can alienate rather than encourage tenants of all backgrounds from engaging, contributing to an ‘us v them’ narrative. This session will address what tenants, and housing professionals can do to build a narrative of inclusion and strengthen their communities

Delegates will hear about:

• How Housing associations have tackled misinformation about housing provision head on and get practical advice about how they can integrate this into their own organisations.

• Examples of partnerships where providers have successfully engaged diverse resident groups

• How to ensure residents from minority backgrounds feel safe, heard and actively included providers planning and communications, and how this is linked to the misinformation challenge.

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: