Working together for change: important updates to the Deputation Policy
Learn more about the changes to the Deputation policy and what they mean for you.
In 2024, Toronto Community Housing (TCHC) and tenants started working together to make the deputation process more accessible. We focused on removing barriers so more tenants could share their voices with the Board of Directors (Board).
We heard from tenants, the Tenant Advisory Committee (TAC), and past deputants. They shared their experiences and ideas for change. One message stood out: the formal language of the old policy made it hard for many people to understand or take part in deputations.
In 2025, we drafted a plain language version of the policy. We continued work with TAC and past deputants to make sure the updated version was clear and easy to use. The Board approved the policy in July 2025.
Changes to the policy
The new policy:
- uses plain language to make it easier to understand
- encourages tenant advocacy while keeping the process organized and fair
- is formatted for clarity, readability, and accessibility.
Read the Deputation Policy for Stakeholders
The plain language version is available on our website.
Read the policyThank you to everyone who helped make the Deputation Policy more accessible. When you share your feedback, you don’t just help improve our policies. You help strengthen our services and our communities.
How to get involved in deputation
When you depute, you connect directly with decision-makers at TCHC. Your lived experience provides invaluable insights that can lead to meaningful changes in how services are delivered.
We encourage you to:
- Learn more about deputations.
- Register to speak at an upcoming Board or Committee meeting.
- Sign up for email updates.
- Watch public Board and Committee meetings live on YouTube.
- Attend a meeting to experience Board and Committee meetings in-person.
Frequently asked questions
Why was the Deputation Policy updated?
In 2024, Toronto Community Housing (TCHC) and tenants started working together to make the deputation process more accessible. We focused on removing barriers so more tenants could share their voices with the Board of Directors (Board).
We heard from tenants, the Tenant Advisory Committee (TAC), and past deputants. They shared their experiences and ideas for change. One message stood out: the formal language of the old policy made it hard for many people to understand or take part in deputations.
In 2025, we drafted a plain language version of the policy. We continued work with TAC and past deputants to make sure the updated version was clear and easy to use. The Board approved the policy in July 2025.
What kind of changes were made to the policy?
The updated policy uses plain language and a simple format to make it easier to understand. It also supports tenant advocacy while keeping the process organized and fair.
Where can I find the updated policy?
You can read the updated policy on our website at torontohousing.ca/deputation-policy.
You can also find the policy at torontohousing.ca/deputations, under “Important links”.
I don’t have access to a computer. Where can I get a copy of the policy?
Staff can print out a copy of the policy for you. You can also visit your local service office or contact the Client Care Centre and request a copy to be mailed to you.
Where can I learn more about deputation?
On our website at torontohousing.ca/deputations, you can find an overview of the Deputation Policy, process, and how to get involved.
How can I get involved in deputation process?
As a tenant, you know first-hand how the decisions made by Toronto Community Housing affect your community. We encourage you to:
- Learn more about deputations.
- Register to speak at an upcoming Board or Committee meeting.
- Sign up for email updates.
- Watch public Board and Committee meetings live on YouTube.
- Attend a meeting to experience Board and Committee meetings in-person.
Visit torontohousing.ca/deputations to learn more.
Who can depute?
Tenants, staff, or members of the public can register to depute. The policy applies to anyone who wants to share their feedback on a public Agenda item at a TCHC Board or Committee meeting.
I still have questions. Who can I contact?
If you still have questions about the policy, process, or how to get involved, contact Sonia Fung, Committee Secretary, at 416-981-4286 or deputations@torontohousing.ca.
