Meet the new Customer Influence Panel

Lydia, Peterborough

Lydia works in Volunteer Engagement for a national charity, where her focus is on ensuring volunteers’ voices are heard at every level of decision-making. She has seen first-hand how powerful it can be when organisations truly listen to the people they serve.

Lydia recognises that Amplius carries the important, and sometimes challenging, responsibility of providing the best housing possible. However, this can only be achieved by listening to customers’ experiences and perspectives.

On the Customer Influence Panel, Lydia hopes to help bridge that gap by ensuring customer voices are heard, valued and reflected in the decisions that shape homes and communities. She aims to act as a constructive and supportive 'critical friend', driving transparency, accountability and continuous improvement so that customers can feel confident that their needs and concerns are represented.

Joshua, Boston

Joshua has worked as a surveyor in the construction industry, while also holding roles including Parish Councillor and Vice President the Student Union.

His interests stretch beyond work, with a passion for music, technology, debate and spending time socialising with friends.

On the Customer Influence Panel, Joshua is keen to share his professional insight, champion residents’ views and help shape positive changes across Amplius' services.

Bryn, Bedfordshire

Bryn has lived in some fascinating places, with Hameln in Germany, home of the famous rat catcher, being a favourite.

His career highlights include working at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and later becoming Training Manager for Stagecoach in Bedford, helping nervous motorists become confident bus drivers.

Outside of work, Bryn enjoys dog walking, volunteering with English Heritage and supporting the Flitwick Planning Improvement Working Group.

On the Customer Influence Panel, Bryn is passionate about improving the Amplius website and digital offer, challenging accommodation standards and tackling isolation among residents.

Jennifer, Rushden

Bringing a wealth of experience from a career spanning print media, recruitment, wildlife conservation, sustainability and education, Jennifer is also on the board of governors at a local school.

From her roots in the print industry, Jennifer moved into HR and enjoyed many years running a successful legal recruitment agency in London. Alongside her love of working with people and organisations, she harnessed a passion for wildlife and the environment to develop considerable expertise in conservation and sustainability.

Jennifer is an elected Fellow of the Zoological Society of London and of the Linnean Society at Burlington House, and she thrives on nurturing positive change in her role as Director of Wildlife and Environmental Studies at Akkadium College.

She has previously been the Chair of the Customer Forum. She was also a member of the Customer Evaluation Panel, contributing her skills and experience to the repairs procurement process.

Bruce, Leicester

Bruce lives in Birstall, Leicester, with Yvonne, his wife of 40 years. They have one son and two grandchildren.

A lifelong rugby enthusiast, Bruce has dedicated many years to grassroots rugby, serving over a decade as secretary of his local club and later becoming president of the Leicestershire Rugby Union, where he oversaw the sport across the county.

Professionally, Bruce spent more than 40 years in the printing industry, starting as an apprentice typesetter before moving into client-facing roles as an account manager. His career gave him extensive experience in listening to customers, resolving queries and building strong relationships.

Calm and considered by nature, Bruce brings a balanced approach to problem-solving and is always willing to offer advice and support where needed.

Philippa, Rutland

Philippa lives in Oakham with her puppy, Nero. A retired headteacher at an international school, she now dedicates her time to volunteering for both Amplius and the Air Ambulance.

Passionate about travel and experimenting with new cuisines, Philippa enjoys cooking at home and keeping active through swimming and gym sessions.

 Following a stroke four years ago, she has worked hard to rebuild her balance and strength. On the Customer Influence Panel, Philippa is keen to use her wide-ranging skills and life experience to represent disabled people and make a positive difference in her community.

Andy, Stamford

Andy recently moved from Kettering to Collyweston, near Stamford, where he’s enjoying settling into his rented bungalow and looks forward to many happy years there.

Originally from Derby, Andy grew up on a council estate before joining the Royal Navy in 1974. His career has since taken him into facilities management, working for several logistics companies.

Andy brings a wealth of life and professional experience to the Panel. He joined to gain a deeper understanding of modern social housing and to play an active role in helping shape its future, supporting both Amplius and fellow customers along the way.

Caroline, Grantham

Caroline has spent her career in housing, working as an estate agent buying, selling and renting homes, and later as an international buyer and project manager alongside sub-contractors both on and off-site.

She enjoys being part of a team, meeting people and hearing their stories and has volunteered with blind, disabled and neurodiverse individuals.

Caroline is passionate about making a positive difference and believes now is the time for customers to get involved, ensuring every voice is heard in helping to shape the future of Amplius' services.