Who knew that a board game could help shape the future of our homes and communities?
As part of our ongoing consultation with tenants on the Welsh Housing Quality Standards (WHQS), we recently held an interactive workshop with a difference. Instead of a traditional presentation or discussion session, tenants were invited to take part in Budget Blocks, a specially designed board game inspired by Monopoly that brings housing budgets to life.
Passing Go… But With a Housing Twist!
In Budget Blocks, players begin their journey with an approved annual budget and make their way around the board, encountering many of the real-life challenges faced by Merthyr Housing every day.
Rather than collecting £200 for passing Go, players were tasked with making important decisions about how to spend limited budgets while balancing priorities such as:
- Meeting Welsh Housing Quality Standards
- Improving homes and communities
- Investing in energy efficiency and net zero initiatives
- Responding to unexpected repairs and emergencies
- Managing rising costs and financial pressures
Just like the classic board game, players could land on a “Chance” square. However, instead of winning a beauty contest or finding a forgotten banknote, participants might receive a grant towards carbon reduction works or face an unexpected cost, such as increased Employer National Insurance contributions requiring an additional £40,000 to be found within the budget.
Understanding the Bigger Picture
The workshop created valuable opportunities for tenants to better understand the complexities of managing housing budgets, while helping us gain a clearer picture of what matters most to our communities.
Through lively discussion and team decision-making, tenants shared their views on:
✅ Prioritising planned improvement works
✅ Meeting WHQS requirements
✅ Investing in more sustainable, energy-efficient homes
✅ Balancing long-term improvements with day-to-day repairs
✅ Making the most effective use of available funding
The activity highlighted the importance of working together to make informed decisions that benefit both current and future tenants.
A Valuable Conversation
The session generated thoughtful conversations about housing investment priorities and provided fresh perspectives for both tenants and staff.
Gemma Watkins, Director of Operations, said:
“It was wonderful to see so many tenants come together to share their thoughts and opinions. Who would have thought a game like Monopoly would help us to understand what our tenants prioritise and how this will help us shape our approach to WHQS.
The day-to-day examples within the game have been insightful for both tenants and staff, helping everyone better understand the challenges involved in managing expectations, meeting housing standards and balancing budgets.
We are looking forward to using the game again to encourage even more positive and constructive engagement.”
Thank You for Taking Part
A huge thank you to everyone who joined the workshop and shared their ideas. Your feedback is helping us make informed decisions about future investment in homes and services.
By working together, we can ensure that tenant voices remain at the heart of our plans to improve homes, meet WHQS requirements and create sustainable communities for the future.
Want to get involved?
Keep an eye on future newsletters, our website and social media channels for upcoming tenant engagement events and opportunities to have your say.
Your voice matters. Your views help shape the future of Merthyr Housing. 🏡💙
