The Big Conversation

Residents' Voices at the Heart of South Essex Homes: Highlights from the Big Conversation

Group sat around a table working together

On 10th December 2025, South Essex Homes (SEH) welcomed residents to the Holiday Inn Southend for the next Big Conversation event, a day dedicated to collaboration, transparency, and shaping the future of housing services.

The event opened with Chief Executive Mike Gatrell, who spoke about the vital role residents play in guiding SEH's work. Mike shared updates on the recent inspection outcome and outlined the actions taken since the Big Conversation in January 2025.

Next, Daniel Lyons explained how comments from the last event helped shape SEH's new business plan. Residents could read copies of the business plan during the morning. It focuses on the things that matter most to residents: repairs, safety, and communication.

One popular activity involved mini Christmas trees and red and green baubles. Residents used these to show what they were happy or unhappy about. The activity was an opportunity to reflect, with some telling us how much they have learned from joining focus groups, and others asking where improvements can be made in communication between SEH and residents. One resident said, It was a different way to share our views, and seeing the trees fill up quite quickly showed that we all had a lot to say whether it was good or bad we all care about where we live.  Staff sat at each table to answer questions and explain processes like the ASB Case Review, so everyone could learn more about how things work.

A resident stood up at a table smiling The event celebrated resident involvement through inspiring presentations. Terry and Carol from the Income Focus Group explained their work and encouraged others to join. Carol shared her personal achievement with me in stepping out of her comfort zone to speak publicly.

Later, Sam, Bob, and Diane from the Residents' Panel for Improvement spoke about their role in driving positive change, a group formed as a direct result of January's Big Conversation.

Sam Elliott provided an update on SEH's journey toward TPAS accreditation, while Sarah Gallagher introduced a new Reward and Recognition Scheme, designed to thank residents for their contributions.

After a busy morning of discussions and activities, everyone enjoyed a Christmas dinner for lunch, complete with mince pies. Residents and staff sat together, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It was lovely to sit with residents and chat about everyday things, on our table, we ended up talking about the local history of Southend, it was fascinating!

A group of people sat around a table working together

Kevin Hazlewood delivered an important update on health and safety, particularly for those living in high-rise buildings. Residents then participated in a discussion about SEH's culture, sharing ideas on how to encourage greater involvement. One suggestion was to use Insight magazine to promote focus groups and more engagement opportunities, as the more residents we get involved, the more we can all get done. 

The event ended with an introduction to SEH's Board and a Q&A session, giving residents the chance to ask questions directly to directors and board members.

The Big Conversation is a key part of SEH's promise to listen and act on residents' feedback. With new initiatives like the Reward and Recognition Scheme and improvements guided by residents, SEH is building a stronger, more connected community.

This page will be updated after the next Big Conversation event in 2026.