Strategic Tenants Advisory Panel (STAP)
STAP was formed in October 2021 following consultation with all tenants, and is a strategic-level group which brings together tenant representatives from across the district. They meet at the Civic Centre every 2 months to discuss, scrutinise and give feedback on strategic level matters, such as how we shape our policies and procedures, and they delve further into our overall performance statistics as a housing provider. They have regular access to the leadership and management teams to meet and discuss news, issues and plans for change and improvement. STAP do not cover operational issues that happen at neighbourhood level, they are the only group that does not as they are focused and dedicated to the strategic structure and performance of F&HDC Housing.
A STAP meeting in progress
STAP have full support from the tenant engagement team and also have high-level influence and access to:
- Cabinet Member for Housing & Homelessness
- Director of Housing & Operations
- Chief Officer for Housing
- Housing Leadership Team
- Neighbourhood Services Manager
- Homeownership Specialist
- Assets & Development Managers
- Housing Strategy & Homelessness Managers
- Customer Support Team Leader
- Housing Income Team Lead
STAP are currently recruiting for new members from across the district. Meetings are held every 2 months, usually on a Tuesday morning, and last approximately 2 hours. Ideally, any tenants interested in joining STAP will have an interest in and focus towards the strategic level of the service, in order to help shape and improve housing services for all tenants across the district. The council can arrange transport to and from meetings and we will also reimburse any reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a result of attending meetings.
STAP currently has 8 members and are looking to recruit a further 2. All enquiries for STAP should be submitted to: tenant.involvement@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk or telephone 01303 853723.