Can I Attend a Board Meeting?
For further information please contact the Sheffield Homes Governance Team by email at enquiries@sheffieldhomes.org.uk
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
1. How can I find out about Board of Directors and Area Board meetings?
All Sheffield Homes Board of Directors & Area Board Meetings, agendas and open Board papers will be publicised through the Sheffield Homes website. This publicity will also include a request for prior notice from people attending who require assistance.
2. How can I be sure that I can get into a meeting, hear what is being said at the meeting, and read documents?
Sheffield Homes will ensure that reasonable steps are taken to reduce barriers faced by people wishing to attend a meeting venue. Once informed of a request for assistance, Sheffield Homes will –
1. Ensure access for disabled people (including space for wheelchair, walking aid and guide dog users)
2. Ensure communication aid requirements are met (for example, large print, sign language, induction loop and interpretation)
3. Ensure designated parking for disabled people
4. Ensure a lift is available if the meeting is on the first or higher floors
5. Ensure accessible toilets3. Can I claim expenses for attending a meeting?
Members of the public cannot claim travel expenses for voluntary attendance at Sheffield Homes meetings.
4. What are the do’s and don’ts of attending a meeting?
1. Members of the public attending Sheffield Homes meetings are welcome to observe but must not participate in the meeting.
2. Any member of the public deemed by the Chair of the meeting to be behaving in a manner that is inappropriate or not in adherence of this protocol, will be asked to leave the meeting.
3. Members of the public will leave the meeting prior to Part B when confidential items (for example commercial and contractual matters and personnel items) are discussed.5. Am I allowed to speak at the meeting?
Members of the public who wish to address the meeting should make a formal request to the chair using the contact information provided in the publicity notice for that meeting. A short written submission from the public would be acceptable instead of a verbal question. The chair has the discretion whether to change the order of the agenda items if a member of the public wishes to address the Board on a particular report.
Requests must be relevant to the items on the meeting agenda.
An address from a member of the public would allow them to raise the Boards awareness of a particular issue, and is not the intention that this should develop into a dialogue. The chair will decide who is allowed to speak and at which point in the meeting.