During the consultation leading up to the merger between Riverside and One Housing, a team of 12 customers from across both organisations teamed up to help shape the consultation process. The work of the team is complete, but we need to continue to work with a similar group to ensure customers can contribute to discussions on how Riverside and One Housing can work together more closely.

A new group has been set up called The Partnership Pledges Task and Finish Group, drawing customers from the existing engagement structures of Riverside and One Housing. The first meeting of the new group was held in late January 2022, and we will provide a short update after each meeting to summarise what was discussed.

Customer Pledges Task and Finish Group: 28th January 2022

Chair and Vice Chair: A chair and vice chair were appointed by the Group. They are:

• Mathew Waterfall (a One Housing Customer)
• Vic Andrews (a Riverside Customer)

A full list of members can be found below:

Terms of Reference

Terms of Reference for the Group were approved, setting out the purpose of the group, who is on it, how often it will meet etc. The full terms of reference is set here. The Group will meet monthly.

Tenancy Sustainment Fund

The Group considered a report which set out the principles which will guide how this £2.5m annual fund (set out in the pledges) should be spent to “improve the livelihoods of customers and build stronger communities”. The Group is keen to hear about live evidence of outcomes and feedback from customers on the benefits of the initiatives funded. They were also clear that this funding should not pay for services that the Government should be providing The Group supported the principles which will now need to be agreed by Riverside’s Board. An update will be provided to all customers after this.

Communication Plan

The Group considered a plan, setting out how Riverside and One Housing will continue to communicate with customers throughout the year about the merger, any changes to customer services, and information about what has been achieved. Two members of the Group will be involved in signing off the content of communications material shared with customers.

Contact the Group

If you have any questions or issues you would like to raise with the Group, you can contact us at: [email protected]