Holding Cottsway to account

"I’m Vanda, that’s me in the middle of the photo. I’ve lived in a Cottsway home since 2006 and I’m the Chair of the customer Scrutiny Group.

This is a small team of tenants who work together to scrutinise Cottsway’s work and make recommendations that we believe will bring improvements for you.

Our job is simple but important - we help shape the decisions that matter most, working closely with Cottsway staff and its Board.

Since I joined in 2017, I’ve seen how our feedback has led to real improvements - like clearer communication, better services, and policies that focus on what customers really need.

There are currently five of us in the group, and together we have over 50 years of experience as Cottsway customers. We’re in the process of filling the recent vacancy and look forward to welcoming a new member soon.

You don’t have to be a Scrutiny Group member to help hold Cottsway to account. Just sign up to our mailing list so you can share your thoughts and ideas when we’re reviewing services."

Steph:

"I started my career as a nurse, then followed my passion for dogs into care, training, and judging for the Royal Kennel Club. 
Joining the Scrutiny Group lets me give back, share my perspective, help improve services, shape policies, and connect with others making a positive difference."

Gill:

"Joining the group has been a great experience. With Cottsway’s support and training, I’ve attended conferences, workshops, and met other groups across England. 

"Most meetings are now online via Teams, making it easy to join. We meet fortnightly, with every third meeting in person at Cottsway’s Witney offices."

Carole:

"I like asking the questions that ensure Cottsway’s services meet tenants’ needs. 

"We’re currently reviewing the tenancy-ending process, gathering customer feedback and meeting staff to find improvements. Once finished, we’ll share our recommendations so real, positive changes can be made across the organisation."

Maggie:

"I actually used to work as a Community Network Officer at Cottsway. During my time working there I also helped create D.I.T.T.O (Doing It Together To Overcome), - a group supporting disabled and vulnerable people, now run by ICE Witney. 

"I like to use this experience to promote accessible, inclusive services for everyone."

For more information about Group and how you can get involved, see:

• Scrutiny Group