As a Gateway organisation, we are committed to making sure your voice is part of every conversation. The Gateway Membership Team is there to represent you within the organisation, and has direct access to the executive team and the Board.
The Gateway Membership Team is made up of tenants and individuals who are passionate about helping to improve services for residents. They are elected by Watford Community Housing members – click here to find out more about becoming a member and what it involves.
If you have thoughts or ideas about Watford Community Housing’s services, the Gateway Membership Team would love to hear from you. You can contact the team by emailing community@wcht.org.uk.
Hind El Khoumssi - Chair
I became a Watford Community Housing tenant in 2016 and since then I have taken part in a Level 2 Housing Practice course that was funded by Watford Community Housing, as well as scrutiny panels, becoming a Customer Representative and most recently a GMT member. I am not afraid to discuss difficult topics, and I regularly review Stage 2 complaints with members of staff. All of these things have empowered me with so much knowledge about the housing sector and its challenges, so that now I can be a voice for the wider social housing community.
Lynn Wheeler - Vice-chair
I was a Watford Community Housing tenant for over 30 years as well as a member of their Housing team for 17 years. I recently became a member of the GMT in order to share my housing experience and to be the voice of tenants who are unable to raise their concerns. I also wanted to help support Watford Community Housing and the team as they continue to provide an efficient and effective service for our customers. I am committed to equal opportunities, and taking into account policies and procedures.
Sarah Compton
I have been a member of the GMT since January 2023, but I first got involved in 2019 after I completed my housing practice qualification funded by Watford Community Housing. I am passionate about helping others and as a disability advocate, I feel I can look at things from a different perspective. I strive for equality in housing and better homes for all. Being on the GMT opens opportunities and it’s great to be part of such a fabulous team. It’s so rewarding to create a positive impact.
Kacper Flisiuk
I am really passionate about the local community coming together and I am active in my local resident group. I am a very curious person who loves to learn new things and I adore music. As a young carer, my family are really important to me.
Tony Lankester
As well as being a member of the GMT, I am also a resident inspector and a proud mental health champion, particularly for residents with bipolar disorder – I am a firm believer in using my experiences to give back to others.
Tony has written a book that captures his journey to understanding his own body, mind and spirit, and gives ‘how to’ tips that readers can apply to their own wellness journey – read our story on that here.
Cassandra Persand
People getting involved in their own spaces and communities is a great idea. I have had experience of things not working well where I live and it is really important to speak up to make things better. I hope I can bring new ideas to the GMT.
Sandra Ryall
I have spent many years working in community centres all over Watford and I know a great deal of tenants and partner organisations. Community groups are really important and I want to work with others to tackle issues like fly-tipping and ASB.