Better Political Engagement: A BME National Perspective

Recent discussions within BME National have highlighted an important challenge for the housing sector: how do we engage with divisive politicians while remaining true to our values and responsibilities?

We know that housing associations do not operate in a political vacuum. Decisions made by governments, political parties and elected representatives have a direct impact on the homes, residents and communities that we work in. We acknowledge that engaging with politicians from across the political spectrum is necessary, and something that we wouldn’t wish to avoid.

However, engagement should not be confused with endorsement.

At the recent BME National Group Meeting on 15th September, members reflected on the sector's approach to politically sensitive speakers and discussions, together with the National Housing Federation and the Chartered Institute of Housing. The conversation focused on the importance of ensuring that engagement is properly prepared, informed by those organisations most affected, and accompanied by robust challenge where appropriate.

Members agreed that the key issue is not whether the sector should engage with difficult or controversial viewpoints, but how that engagement takes place. Questions were raised about both consultation and transparency and how organisations can ensure that diverse communities feel heard and respected throughout the process.

The discussion also recognised that housing associations serve an increasingly diverse range of communities. Decisions about public platforms, speakers and political engagement can have a significant impact on how residents, colleagues and stakeholders perceive the sector's commitment to inclusion and belonging.

As a result, BME National will be advocating for a clearer framework to guide future politically sensitive engagement across the housing sector. Such a framework could include earlier consultation, greater involvement of diverse voices in event planning, clearer arrangements for challenge and scrutiny, and a shared understanding of how the sector's values are reflected in public discussions.

In a rapidly changing political environment, housing organisations will increasingly need to balance openness to debate with their responsibility to support cohesive, inclusive communities. BME National believes these conversations are necessary, but they must always be conducted in a way that reflects the values of fairness, respect and accountability that underpin social housing.

The challenge is not whether we engage. The challenge is how we engage, who is involved, and whether the voices of the communities we serve are heard throughout the process