Black and minority ethnic user participation in housing

The emphasis on user participation in the housing sector has risen, yet the involvement of black and minority ethnic tenants in councils and housing associations appears limited. This is of particular concern given that these communities are more likely to experience poor housing conditions, overcrowding, homelessness and racism and to have specific housing needs arising from larger family sizes and cultural practices. This paper argues that providers should look at how appropriate support can encourage participation from black and minority ethnic tenants, rather than assuming they are ‘hard to reach’. To make involvement meaningful to tenants, they also need to be shown how their participation can influence the services provided. Monitoring and follow-up are therefore essential.