Highlights from Our AGM and Corporate Plan Launch

On Monday, September 15, we welcomed customers, colleagues, and partners to Tai Calon’s 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) an afternoon of reflection, vision, and celebration. Thank you to everyone who joined us; your support and involvement make a real difference.

The AGM was a chance to look back at what we’ve achieved, share our plans for the future, and celebrate our community. The programme included inspiring updates, live performances, and the opportunity to connect and ask questions.

We said a heartfelt farewell to Professor Sir Adrian Webb, who has chaired our Board for many years, providing invaluable guidance and support in helping Tai Calon become more customer-focused and transforming our culture. Under his leadership, Tai Calon was recognised as one of the Sunday Times Top 100 Not-For-Profit Companies to Work For (2020) and named a Great Place to Work in 2023 and 2024.

We also gave a warm welcome to our new Chair, Julie Thomas, who brings 37 years of NHS experience across Gwent. Starting her career as a nurse for people with learning disabilities, Julie went on to hold senior leadership roles, including Chief Executive, before working with Aneurin Bevan and Powys Health Boards. Her work on the pioneering In One Place programme, which brought housing and health services together, sparked her passion for housing. We’re delighted to have her leadership guiding Tai Calon into the future.

Image of our new Chair, Julie Thomas, speaking at the AGM.

The AGM was also a celebration of local talent, from Nia Evans, Kian & Marnie, and the Can Aderyn Choir, which brought energy and joy to the afternoon.

A major highlight was the launch of our Corporate Plan 2030, which sets out our vision, ambitions, and priorities for the next five years. At its heart is our bold mission to achieve 95% customer satisfaction with our services.

To make this happen, we’ve set out seven clear goals for 2025–2030:

  • Exemplary Customer Insight – listening, learning, and shaping services around our customers.
  • Dynamic Service Offer – providing flexible and responsive services.
  • Real-Time Customer Home Management – using technology to keep homes safe, warm and comfortable.
  • Creating New Homes – delivering high-quality, affordable, energy-efficient homes.
  • Living the CALON Values – fostering a positive and inclusive culture for customers and colleagues.
  • Doing the Right Thing — We act responsibly, guided by ESG principles, and promote sustainability, fairness, and accountability.
  • Leading Customer Experience – making every interaction simple, personal, and respectful.

Image of Richard Hopkins CEO of Tai Calon speaking at the AGM.

The AGM reminded us of what we can achieve when we work together. We left feeling inspired, motivated, and proud to stand alongside our customers and partners in shaping a brighter future for Blaenau Gwent.

Once again, thank you to everyone who joined us.