There are a range of organisations which we rely upon to deliver housing and housing related services in many different ways both in the UK and internationally. The work of these organisations greatly influence the way housing is governed, delivered and experienced. These organisations are set within structural context(s) that shape their work and priorities. The focus of this week is the interconnection between the structural context, organisations and the impact this has for communities and people. Presentations take a broad view and look at the role of local authorities, the delivery of affordable housing, the experiences of communities, and different routes for delivering housing. Presentations are drawn from all quarters of the UK together with international case studies.
The Plenary this week will look at critical approaches to decision-making, where policy and politics have been seen to fail individuals and groups. Exploring issues such as race and gender, speakers will discuss instances where the power of decision-making can be seen to be influenced by ideological approaches and consequently negatively impact on certain groups. This session will explore the concept of power and the structures which allow certain individuals and groups dominate decision-making, and others to be excluded. Confirmed speakers are Dr Andrea Gibbons (University of Salford) and Dr Oli Mould (Royal Holloway University).