Group Focus and Aims
1.1 To work in close partnership with the Castle Point Borough Council (CPBC) Housing Team to help keep their block/neighbourhood safe, clean and well-maintained.
1.2 To act as an extra set of eyes and ears reporting issues early, supporting communication between residents and the council, and helping to build a positive community atmosphere.
Group Structure and Membership
2.1 Block Champions will volunteer individually within their local neighbourhood.
2.2 There are no planned, structured meetings for this group of tenants. CPBC may, annually, arrange a focus group or meeting to review trends from Block Champion reports where volunteers may be invited to recommend improvements across the whole CPBC area related to their estate services.
2.3 Block Champions will be in place for as long as they live in their relevant area. If they move within CBPC they may take on the role in their new neighbourhood. Roles will be reviewed annually to make sure things are working as planned.
2.4 Block Champions may be removed if they are in breach of this Terms of Reference or the CPBC Code of Conduct.
2.5 Block Champions can resign from the role at any time by contacting the Engagement Team at CPBC.
Group Members Role and Responsibilities
3.1 Repairs and issues should be reported through the usual customer service channels. This role does not entitle any tenant to a different level of service.
3.2 Block Champions must report issues to CPBC directly. They are not responsible for enforcing rules or perceived tenancy breaches, removing items from any areas, or being involved in any examples of nuisance or antisocial behaviour.
3.3 Below are the key areas Block Champions would be expected to take part in:
Reporting Repairs & Maintenance Issues
- Identify and report communal repairs promptly (e.g., lighting, doors, lifts, leaks)
- Monitor ongoing repairs and holding the housing team to account
- Highlight health and safety concerns such as fly‑tipping, vandalism, or hazards
Supporting Block Improvements
- Work with the Housing Team to identify priorities for block and estate improvements
- Provide feedback on cleaning standards, grounds maintenance, and contractor performance
- Participate in neighbourhood inspections
Strengthening Communication
- Share key messages from the Housing Team with neighbours (e.g. service changes, safety advice)
- Encourage residents to report issues through the correct channels
- Help the Housing Team understand residents’ concerns and experiences
Building Community Spirit
- Promote respect for shared spaces and positive neighbour behaviour
- Support small community initiatives such as clean‑up days
- Encourage a sense of pride and ownership within the block
Who feeds into the group
5.1 In order to fulfil the aims of the group, members will receive:
5.1.1 Support and information from the Housing Team and Engagement Teams to carry out their roles including expectations of cleaning contracts, grounds maintenance contracts, and safety guidance for shared hallways and stairwells, etc.
5.1.2 A named housing officer as the main point of contact.
5.1.3 Guidance on how to report repairs and escalate concerns.
5.1.4 Occasional training or briefings in, for example, fire safety, safeguarding awareness, contract specifications etc.
5.1.5 Updates on improvement plans and feedback on reported issues, and recognition for the contribution to the community.
5.1.6 Invitations from CPBC to be part of Estate Inspections or community events.
Who the group feeds into
6.1 So that tenant voices are considered at a decision-making level, feedback from this group will feed into:
- CPBC Engagement Team who will publish a quarterly update of all tenant engagement for every tenant to access online. This will cover the engagement that has taken place and a summary of any known outcomes or recommendations.
- Scrutiny projects where relevant.
- Board/Committee via a written report and verbal update from the Senior Leaseholder and Customer Relations Officer or as part of specific agenda items.
- Senior Management and Executive Teams at CPBC via the Chair or Vice Chair will review this before it is shared.
- CPBC Cabinet via Committee members, where relevant as part of assurance that the Transparency, Influence and Accountability Consumer Standard is being met. Compliance will be confirmed by CPBC staff.
Incentives and expenses
7.1 Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed for activities requested or supported by CPBC, including mileage at a rate of 45p per mile. Transport will be arranged by CPBC where required.