Together with Tenants June 2026
Estate Engagement
In June, Sophie and Sara were out carrying out an estate walkabout on the Whinfield Estate, taking the opportunity to inspect the local area and speak directly with residents.
During the visit, a couple of instances of fly-tipping were identified and reported for action. They also noted areas where weeds required attention and arranged for these concerns to be raised with the Street Scene team.
As well as identifying environmental issues, the walkabout provided a valuable opportunity to engage with residents, listen to their views, and discuss any concerns they had about their neighbourhood.
It was great to speak to several residents while enjoying the sunny weather, and these conversations help Housing Services better understand local issues and continue working towards maintaining clean, safe, and welcoming communities.
Rockwell House – Community Achievement
In June, tenants at Rockwell House demonstrated the power of community spirit by coming together to raise funds for a life-saving defibrillator (DEFIB).
Residents worked collaboratively and successfully raised the required funds in less than two weeks, showing outstanding commitment, teamwork and determination. To help cover the remaining costs, a community fund application was also submitted, ensuring the project could be completed as quickly as possible.
As a result of their efforts, the defibrillator has now been installed on the outside wall at Rockwell House, making it accessible when needed. In addition, a bleed control kit has been provided, further enhancing the emergency response resources available within the community.
This equipment is available not only for Rockwell House residents but also for the wider community, providing reassurance that vital life-saving equipment is close at hand in an emergency.
This achievement is a fantastic example of what can be accomplished when tenants work together towards a common goal. Their dedication and community-minded approach will have a lasting positive impact and could one day help save lives
Police and Housing Services at Rosemary Court
In June, Housing Officer Amanda and PCSO Douglas visited Rosemary Court to meet with tenants and discuss local issues affecting the community.
The visit provided residents with an opportunity to raise any concerns, ask questions, and receive advice in an informal setting while enjoying a cup of coffee together. These conversations are an important way of ensuring that tenants' voices are heard and that any neighbourhood issues can be identified and addressed at an early stage.
The event was another excellent example of partnership working between Housing Services and Durham Constabulary, demonstrating a shared commitment to supporting residents and promoting safe, welcoming communities.
By working together and engaging directly with tenants, both teams continue to play an important role in helping residents feel supported and ensuring neighbourhoods remain safe places to live.
The Housing Team Visits Hull City Council Housing
In June, Tenant Involvement Officers Sara and Matthew visited Hull City Council Housing to learn more about the ways tenants are involved in shaping housing services and strengthening their communities.
During the visit, they had the opportunity to attend Hull's Tenant Forum, where residents and housing staff work together to discuss key issues, share ideas and influence decision-making. They also met with the Women's Voice Resident Association, gaining valuable insight into how the group engages residents and promotes community involvement.
As part of the day, Sara and Matthew took part in an estate walkabout, seeing first-hand how Hull works with tenants to identify neighbourhood priorities and address local concerns.
The visit provided a great opportunity to share ideas, learn from good practice and explore new approaches to tenant engagement. By working together and learning from other organisations, Housing Services can continue to develop opportunities for residents to have a meaningful voice in shaping the services and communities that matter to them.
In June, Housing Officers began identifying potential winners for this year's Housing Officer Garden Awards, recognising residents who take pride in their gardens and help make our neighbourhoods attractive places to live.
As part of the awards, prizes were presented to residents in Branksome, Haughton and Skerne Park, with the winners delighted to receive recognition for their hard work and dedication.
The awards celebrate the positive contribution that residents make to their communities through maintaining beautiful gardens and communal spaces, helping to create welcoming environments for everyone to enjoy.
The Garden Competition remains open until 31 August, and residents still have the opportunity to enter or be nominated in the following categories:
· Best Individual Garde
· Best Communal Garden
· Best Housing Scheme
The competition is a fantastic way to highlight the effort, creativity and community pride shown by residents across our neighbourhoods. We look forward to seeing more wonderful gardens throughout the summer and celebrating the achievements of our tenants and housing schemes.
