Come along on 11 October
Paul Kershaw, Unite the Union housing workers branch chair
Rents are rising ahead of inflation, disrepair is widespread, and in the private sector, tenants’ security is dependent on the whim of their landlords. On Saturday 11 October, housing activists are meeting to discuss establishing a national tenant and resident union. The aim is not to replace existing organisations, but to bring campaigns together.
Suz Muna, from the Social Housing Action Campaign (Shac), said this about the event:
“We’ve had a very positive response. The in-person tickets of 150 seats are now sold out and we have a waiting list for cancellations. However, an online link is available so people can still join by Zoom. If in-person is the better option, people can contact shac.action@gmail.com for a seat.
“We have over 60 organisations supporting the initiative, including national campaign groups like Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), and housing campaign groups. Most gratifying, however, is that the majority of backers are tenant and resident associations. They are desperate for an organisation to support, empower, and amplify their local campaigning, and have therefore actively supported what we are doing.
“Our vision for the union is that it will be run democratically by and for tenants and residents. This is what distinguishes it from the various landlord and government ‘tenant voice’ initiatives that aim to carefully control the agenda and work programmes of their forums.
In his personal blog, ‘The Housing Sector’, one activist describes how he started by raising basic problems, like leaks and windows that wouldn’t open. Not only were the problems not resolved, but the social landlord went to great lengths to silence him. When he started sharing his experience on social media, he found he was not alone.
He describes how he has become convinced of the importance of building a union across tenures. He says: “So look – whether you’re sceptical, uncertain, afraid, or ready to embrace the idea of a union. Whether you’re a resident who needs one, or someone still figuring out where you stand, now’s the time to join the debate.
“If you can attend the Shac event on Saturday 11 October, please do. It would be great to have you there. If you’re watching online – brilliant. Take part. Share your thoughts. Add your voice.”
- Find out more at shaction.org
