Homes in Somerset hosted its customer-led scrutiny of domestic abuse services at North Petherton Rugby Club earlier this month.
This was for the Sedgemoor Tenants Assurance Committee (STAC) to ensure an independent review of the services provided by HIS and to challenge the delivery of services.
Cyan and Sarah provided support to a team of 20 Tenants from across Somerset Council and Homes in Somerset in conducting a thorough review of the support offered to tenants experiencing domestic abuse.
Their involvement ensured that the review was comprehensive and tenant-focused.
Tenants took part in activities designed to gather their opinions, feedback, and suggestions on what should be changed, repaired, improved, or reconsidered.
The scrutiny exercise concentrated on several important aspects related to domestic abuse services. These included:
• Evaluation of the Domestic Abuse policy currently in place
• Review of the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance (DAHA) report overview and its recommendations
• Examination of case management procedures
• Identification of barriers that tenants may face when reporting domestic abuse
Through this customer-led scrutiny, the Sedgemoor Tenants Assurance Committee can ensure that the voices of tenants are heard and that the services provided to those experiencing domestic abuse are thoroughly examined and, where necessary, challenged to drive improvements.
STAC member Mike, said: “I was at the Domestic Abuse scrutiny session as an observer, having pre read the Scrutiny Policy (an excellent document I must add) prior to the meeting, the day consisted of discussing the document piecemeal giving the attendees ample opportunity to voice opinions and make comments which were noted and may be used in the final draft, various questionnaires were handed out for completion as a group by those on individual tables thus enhancing the feel good factor for all involved.’’