GBC ‘Seeking Culture of Collaboration’ With Tenants and Leaseholders

Published on: 26 Mar, 2025
Updated on: 28 Mar, 2025

The council says it wants “real, lasting change.” Picture: GBC

Guildford Borough Council says it is putting residents at the heart of its housing services with the launch of its draft Tenant and Leaseholder Engagement Strategy.

The council says the draft strategy highlights its commitment to working closely with tenants and leaseholders, ensuring their voices shape the future of housing services.

The council has outlined five key priorities:

1. Improve communication and interaction
2. Strengthen engagement, participation and empowerment
3. Create and support proud communities
4. Build a culture of respect and collaboration
5. Strengthen scrutiny and accountability

People are being encouraged to make their voices heard via an online survey on the GBC website (there is a link at the foot of this page). The council says feedback will be considered and, where appropriate, incorporated in the final strategy.

Cllr Julia McShane, Leader of the Council and Lead Councillor for Housing, said: “We want to make sure our Tenant and Leaseholder Engagement Strategy truly reflects what matters most to our residents. Our goal is to create a culture of collaboration, one built on real experiences, insights, and mutual respect.

“By working together, we can shape the housing services people rely on, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of our community. This isn’t just about making improvements, it’s about creating real, lasting change that makes a difference in people’s everyday lives.”

Alan Wood, Chair of the Tenants’ Engagement Group (TEG), said: “The council is working hard behind the scenes to create a future where every resident has a safe, well-maintained home and a housing service that listens, responds, and takes action. It’s fantastic to have the opportunity to give feedback on draft plans and help shape the services that matter to us all.”

The TEG is a group of volunteers of tenants and leaseholders who work with the council to ensure a good service.

Closing date for the draft Tenant and Leaseholder Engagement strategy is Sunday, April 6th.