The power of the Cheltenham Tenant Union is not a mystery; it is a direct result of our collective numbers. We operate on the simple principle that while one tenant can be ignored, thousands cannot. Our strategy is built on three clear levels of engagement, each one strengthening our ability to create a fairer housing market.

Level 1: Creating a Gravitational Force

This is the most critical and foundational step. Your single act of participation creates a powerful, undeniable force.

• Build Our Numbers: The single most important thing you can do is help us build our numbers. We create a "gravitational force" by virtue of the size of our mailing list, which commands the attention of councillors, landlords, and letting agents. The most direct way to help is to join our free newsletter. Your subscription is a vote in our favour and adds to our power.
• Become a paid subscriber. A regular sum to build our critical mass of local tenants. - Thank you to those who already do
• Support Our Outreach: Building our numbers costs money. We need funds to buy targeted social media advertising and to print and deliver leaflets specifically to rental properties in Cheltenham. Your financial support allows us to reach more tenants and grow our collective strength.

Level 2: Targeted Lobbying and Information Gathering

Once we have our numbers, we can focus our power on specific targets to make our voice heard.

• Participate in Mass Email Campaigns: When we identify a key individual—a councillor, a university official, or a letting agent—who needs to hear our message, we will send you a pre-written email. By taking a moment to send it, you become part of a massive email campaign. Imagine the power of a decision-maker receiving hundreds or thousands of emails on the same topic. It is an act of influence that cannot be ignored.
• Identify Examples: Your experiences are our evidence. You can help us by sharing specific instances of unfair rent hikes, poor repairs, or threats of eviction. We can then use these individual examples to talk about the general problem and hold key players accountable.

Level 3: Collective Political Action

The ultimate form of our power is at the ballot box. We use our unified voice to influence who represents us.

• Vote for Aligned Candidates: When it's time to vote, we will identify candidates who are aligned with our values and objectives. You can help us by voting for these candidates, ensuring that our interests are represented at the highest levels of local governance. By voting collectively, we can elect representatives who will give us what we want.