A Spotlight on: Lowri Evans

TPAS Cymru is excited to return our 'Spotlight On' series in a brand-new format. This summer, we want to celebrate the fantastic people who make the housing and engagement sector in Wales so special. Join us as we shine a light on the people behind the hard work and best practices that help our communities thrive. We can't wait to share these inspiring stories with you!

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing the faces behind many of the roles across the sector, a little about their experience working in tenant engagement and what inspires them.

Our first article features Lowri Evans, Community Officer at Grŵp Cynefin.

1. What is my favourite thing about my job?

The most rewarding aspect of my role is its diversity. I have the opportunity to collaborate with a wide range of tenants and staff, ensuring that no two days are alike.

My responsibilities encompass tenant involvement, digital inclusion, employment support, and community engagement.

At Grŵp Cynefin, we are fortunate to have an exceptionally engaged tenant community, and I take great pride in empowering them to ensure their voices are heard.

2. What is 1 thing you would change about housing in Wales?

Implementing stricter regulations for private landlords to prevent rental prices from driving an increasing number of individuals to join the social housing register.

3. How has housing changed since I started doing my role?

I have been in this role since 2020, beginning just as the pandemic struck. There has since been a heightened emphasis on providing not only affordable and high-quality homes but also on enhancing the communities we live in. The quality of life has become more crucial than ever, as reflected in the new Welsh Housing Quality Standard.

The emphasis on accessing information and communicating online has increased during this time, and my role has developed into providing digital support, access to devices and support to get online.

4. What is a good way to ensure tenants or the public have their voice heard?

Ensure there are multiple avenues for tenants to engage in ways that suit their preferences. Communicate the outcomes and changes made based on their input, including explaining any suggestions that could not be implemented and the reasons why.

5. What inspires me to do what I do?

Witnessing the positive impact of the Community Initiatives Team's work is incredibly rewarding.  Supporting tenants in gaining confidence and participating in the shaping of their homes, seeing tenants gaining skills and getting into employment, supporting tenants to participate online or communicate with friends and family virtually as a result of our work makes my role truly worthwhile.