What is the Tenant and Leaseholder Board?
The Board will be a new group made up of tenants, leaseholders, and shared owners who will work with senior Oxford City Council staff to improve housing services. It will give residents a structured way to influence decisions that affect their homes and communities.
Why is the Board being set up?
Residents told us they wanted a clearer, stronger voice in how housing services are run. The Board will ensure that residents are involved in shaping decisions, not just consulted afterwards.
Who can apply?
Any Oxford City Council tenant, leaseholder, or shared owner can apply, whatever your age, background, or experience. We especially encourage people who haven’t been involved before.
Do I need special skills or experience?
No. You don’t need any qualifications or previous experience. We’ll provide free training and ongoing support so you can take part confidently.
What will I do as a Board member?
You’ll:
- work with senior officers to review housing services
- share resident experiences and feedback
- help make recommendations for improvement
- support fairness, inclusion, and transparency
See our Board Member role description for more details.
How often will the Board meet?
The Board will meet fully eight times a year, usually on an early mid-week evening from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Meetings will be held online.
Four of the eight meetings will be more formal and may require members to attend a pre-meeting to help them prepare.
All in all, if you count in pre-meetings, Board members will be expected to get together 12 times a year.
How much time will it take?
Each meeting will last about 2 hours, and each of them will need members to find about 90 minutes to read papers and prepare.
All in all, through the year (and including reading email updates), you’re probably looking at between about 45 hours over a year, or about 4 hours a month.
Is this a paid role?
No, it’s a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses (like travel or childcare) can be covered.
What if I’m nervous or not confident?
That’s perfectly okay. Many people feel the same at first. We’ll support you with mentoring, training, and tools to help you take part in a way that works for you.
Can I join if I don’t speak English as a first language?
Yes. We can arrange translation or interpretation support so that everyone can take part fully.
What if I have a disability or caring responsibilities?
We’ll make sure the role is accessible; this could include online attendance, flexible timings, or accessible meeting venues.
What if I work for Oxford City Council or ODS, can I still apply?
Absolutely, if you declare your interest in being an employee as part of the recruitment process and if you’re successful, before you get started, working for the Council or ODS doesn’t mean you can’t apply.
How long is the role for?
Board members will be appointed for two years in the first instance.
How do I apply?
Visit our Apply to join the Tenant and Leaseholder Board page for deatils.
