It was a weekend of bonding, where after a healthy breakfast on Day 1, everyone got their heads down, and entirely focused on the excellent work that Mark and Julie had done so far. We had regular refreshment breaks, and the (much too big!!) lunch provided was perfect. We reviewed policies, making changes as appropriate to D.H.C.

Plenty of discussions took place and amendments made as agreed by everyone. We were fortunate that EVERY MEMBER of our committee was in attendance, and so therefore decisions could be made final.

The afternoon agenda included more policy reviews, and Accreditation points that we have discussed at previous meetings up to that point.

Mark did an excellent job on the computer, so that people could follow the points made on the screen, and provided professional looking copies of the new Tenants Handbook, which is part of the Accreditation process. The Code of Conduct folder made it easier for everyone to join in, and volunteers took it in turn to read aloud each policy and we all felt included in the process.

After a very productive day, we finished at 5.30 and went to our rooms for an hour or two before a wonderful dinner and a relaxing evening.

Breakfast was provided the next morning, and after that, everyone settled in the lounge area of the Reception for a ‘Catch – up’ before heading off home.

It was a very productive and fulfilling weekend, and one which we feel would be valuable to a lot of coops. We intend to do this again next year, and as long as we have a dedicated and hard-working committee, the work achieved at a conference such as this, will always benefit all the tenants living on our estate and will make Darent Housing Cooperative a better place to live.

Maxine Ruddock

Vice Chair