Resident Board Member

We are looking for at least two Housing 21 residents who have a strong sense of connection with our social purpose and values to join our Board. Particularly focussing on helping those of modest means and setting high quality standards, even if this isn’t necessarily the most profitable option. The dynamics of the relationship between Board and the Executive is particularly important. A positive attitude, outlook and independent mindset, providing challenge and rigour, whilst acting as a ‘critical friend’ to the Executive Team is an important part of this role. You should be able to inspire others in pursuit of Housing 21’s values and goals.

A board member is someone who helps make important decisions about how Housing 21 is run. Here's a breakdown of what a board member does:

• Decision Making: Board members meet regularly (6 times a year) to discuss and make decisions about important matters concerning Housing 21. This could include things like budgets, policies, and plans for improving the housing and services provided to our residents.

•  Accountability to Residents: Board members should be accountable to residents for their actions and decisions. They should regularly report back to the resident community on board activities, decisions made, and outcomes achieved. This helps foster transparency and ensures that residents remain informed and engaged in the governance process.

• Representing Residents: Board members are like spokespeople for the people who live in Housing 21’s properties. They listen to the concerns and ideas of residents and make sure that these are considered when making decisions.

• Setting Goals and Policies: Board members work together to set goals for the organisation to achieve. These goals could be about things like improving the quality of housing, making sure residents are happy and safe, and managing the finances of the association responsibly.

• Working with employees and Management: Board members work closely with the employees and management of Housing 21 to make sure that everything runs smoothly. They may provide guidance and support to the staff and help them carry out the decisions made by the board.

• Being Accountable: Board members are responsible for making sure that Housing 21 follows the law and operates in a fair and transparent manner. They may be required to report to regulatory bodies and stakeholders on the association's activities and finances.

Overall, the role of a board member is to work together with other members to make sure that Housing 21 provides good-quality housing and services to its residents, while also being responsible and accountable in its operations. This requires a number of essential skills and attributes:

• Listening and Communication: A key aspect of representing residents is actively listening to their concerns, feedback, and ideas. Board members should engage with residents regularly to understand their perspectives and priorities. This can be done through community meetings, surveys, focus groups, or one-on-one conversations.

• Voicing Resident Perspectives: During board meetings and discussions, a board member can bring forward the concerns and viewpoints of residents. They should articulate these perspectives in a constructive and respectful manner, ensuring that the voices of different groups within the resident community are heard and considered in decision-making processes.

• Building Trust and Transparency: Establishing trust and transparency between the board and residents is essential for effective representation. Board members should be transparent about the decisions being made, the reasons behind them, and how they align with the interests of the resident community. This helps build confidence among residents that their concerns are being taken seriously.

• Balancing Interests: While it's important for a board member to advocate for residents, they also have a broader responsibility to consider the long-term viability and sustainability of the housing association. This means balancing the interests of residents with the overall goals and objectives of the association, which may include financial stability, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning.

• Collaboration and Compromise: Effective representation involves collaboration and compromise among board members, employees, and residents. Board members should work collaboratively with other stakeholders to find solutions that address the needs of residents while also aligning with the strategic direction of the association.

For more information please see attached documentation.  If you have any questions about the process or need support with your application, please speak with your Scheme Manager.

Closing date for applications 14th June