Resident board member appointed vice chair of Peabody and two new appointments at RSH

Resident board member appointed vice chair of Peabody

Social landlord Peabody has named board member and resident advocate Peter Baffoe as its new vice chair.

Baffoe has been a member of Peabody’s board since 2018, bringing his personal experience of growing up in social housing and a strong connection to the community.

He’s been active across the housing association’s resident-led committees for several years, from early involvement with Peabody’s community foundation committee, to chairing the resident experience committee and sitting on the G15’s residents’ group,

“Being vice chair is something I’m proud of and take very seriously, but I’m a resident voice, not the resident voice of Peabody,” said Baffoe, reflecting on his new role.

“There are lots of ways residents can share their experiences and views with Peabody, and all of them matter. I see my role as mostly about asking questions, offering a resident perspective, and helping keep the focus on what’s most important – safe, decent, affordable homes and good services.”

Baffoe grew up in social housing in Elephant and Castle and later moved to a Peabody home. While living there, he went to a meeting to ask Peabody for new homes in his area and extra recycling bins and was asked if he wanted to get more involved.

“I hope my story shows how much power there is in simply speaking up,” said Baffoe. “I’d encourage any resident who wants to see change to do the same.”

Baffoe is currently in the final two-and-a-half years of his third term on the Peabody board. He is also executive director of South London Mission, a charity based in Southwark and chair of governors at Rye Oak Primary School and a trustee of Maudsley charity.

Board chair Caroline Corby welcomed Peter Baffoe into his new role, saying: “Having residents involved at board level isn’t just good practice – it’s essential. Peter’s contribution over the years has helped ensure we stay connected to what matters most. He brings honesty, compassion and insight, and I’m looking forward to working with him as vice chair.” Baffoe succeeds David Hardy as vice chair.

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Two new appointments at RSH

Two new non-executive directors (NEDs) have been appointed to the Board of the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH).

David Cassidy and Chan Kataria will join as NEDs of the RSH Board for three year terms.

Mr Cassidy will take up his post from 1 July 2025 and Mr Kataria by December 2025.

The RSH undertakes regulation of registered providers of social housing.

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, said: “I welcome the appointment of Chan and David as new non-executive directors who will be valuable additions to the RSH Board.

“As this Government works to deliver the biggest increase in social and affordable housing in a generation, whilst ensuring homes are safe and decent for tenants, they will bring with them the skills necessary to help ensure the RSH effectively regulates the sector.”

David Cassidy completed a 43-year banking career with Barclays in December 2024. He is a specialist in social housing finance having led that team within Barclays for ten years.

Chan Kataria OBE is an experienced Chief Executive and NED with significant social housing experience. He is stepping down from his role as Group Chief Executive of East Midlands Housing. Other current roles also include being a Board member of the Chartered Institute of Housing. He was awarded an OBE in 2017 for services to housing.