When we set up the ALS National Residents’ Panel in March 2024, we had one clear goal: to give our residents a stronger voice in how we run things. Recently, we took a big step forward by involving members of the panel in two important decisions that affect everyone – choosing companies to carry out repairs and maintenance and fire safety services across the country. This was a chance for us to make sure residents’ opinions were at the heart of these vital processes.
Three dedicated members, Phil, Peter and Stuart, stepped up to take on these responsibilities, to help evaluate bids from different companies and decide which ones would be best for the job.
Once we received all the tender documents, we shared them with an evaluation panel made up of both staff and residents. Phil, Peter, and Stuart carefully reviewed every submission, scoring them based on criteria including quality, value for money, and customer service. After this, we met together to discuss their assessments and agree on final scores.
Three companies were shortlisted, and each delivered a presentation. Phil focused on the repairs and maintenance contract, while Peter and Stuart concentrated on the fire servicing contract. They attended the presentations, asked questions, and scored the companies again based on how well they performed.
Phil said, “It was great to be able to use the skills and knowledge I developed when working on tenders and contracts with the NHS to help improve things at Abbeyfield.”
“I was particularly pleased to be able to participate in this procurement process,” added Stuart, “and to have the opportunity to comment and express an opinion throughout. A significant step forward for resident involvement!”
Phil, Peter and Stuart, members of the Residents' Panel
After much deliberation, there was strong agreement between the residents and staff about who should win the contracts: Churches Fire has been awarded the national fire servicing contract, Dodd Group will handle repairs and maintenance in the North, and RPL Construction will take care of repairs and maintenance in the South.
This outcome is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Phil, Peter, and Stuart. Reviewing complex documents and sitting through presentations isn’t easy, but they excelled, showing just how valuable resident involvement can be.
“Our voice really does matter, and it is heard a great deal more than we think. We made a genuine contribution to the final decisions. It is certainly worth putting your name forward and getting involved,” said Peter.
This experience has shown us what’s possible when we work together. To ensure residents continue to have a meaningful say in future procurement exercises, we’re now developing a framework to guide how we involve residents going forward. Your input matters, and we’re committed to making it count.
If you’d like to find out more about joining the Residents’ Panel, please email resident.engagement@abbeyfield or call Justin on 07533 424367 for more information. Your ideas and insights are invaluable, and we look forward to working with even more of you in the future.
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