More than 100 activists gathered in person and online on the 11th October to plan a national tenants and residents (housing) union. The event was organised by SHAC as the basis for forming an independent action group that can transform the vision into reality.
Attendees included those leading local action on their estates, regional groups including the London Renters Union and London Tenants’ Federation, and national campaigns such as Housing Sector and Free Leaseholders.
Many excellent ideas were proposed by contributors, including investigating and evaluating other European models of mass tenant power, and developing alliances with key trade unions such as the Fire Brigades Union which has taken a leading role in highlighting the political and economic causes of the Grenfell fire.
The main concern expressed at the conference was to embed a strong ethos of independence and good governance in the organisation so that it is run by and for tenants and residents. Many felt previous ‘tenants voice’ organisations have lacked these founding principles, undermining their effectiveness. It was widely acknowledged that future success lay in creating a self-determining and democratic body.
The conference established a strong level of enthusiasm for the project and willingness to devote the necessary time and energy towards realising the union. A steering group will now provide strategic planning, with a smaller taskforce to undertake the work.
To get involved, please complete the National Housing Union form, or visit our National Housing Union page for more information.
16 October 2025
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