Peter Baffoe: “What attracted me is Eastlight’s commitment to being resident-led”

Housing association Eastlight Community Homes has appointed Peter Baffoe as its new permanent chair.

The Braintree-based landlord announced that Mr Baffoe will join its board on 1 November.

His move follows the death in May of longstanding chair Hattie Llewelyn-Davies. Chris Cheshire, who took on duties on an interim basis, is stepping down at the end of October.

Mr Baffoe, who grew up in social housing in south London, takes on his new role with the 15,000-home landlord having already served as a resident member for eight years – and, since June 2025, vice-chair – of Peabody’s board.

His experience at the 108,000-home London landlord and G15 member has seen him champion greater resident involvement in decision-making and the importance of residents being able to influence the homes and services they receive, Eastlight said in a statement.

Dan Jones, acting chief executive of Eastlight, said Mr Baffoe’s appointment “is invaluable. He brings extensive experience in housing governance, community leadership and resident engagement, alongside something that is fundamental to who we are – his own experience as a social housing resident.”

He added: “Combined with Peter’s considerable board and leadership experience, this will help ensure residents continue to shape our decisions, our priorities and the future of Eastlight.”

Mr Baffoe, a former NHS manager, is executive director of the South London Mission, a charity based in Southwark.

Besides his housing board roles, he is chair of governors at Rye Oak Primary School in Peckham and a trustee of the Maudsley Charity, which focuses on mental health.

Mr Baffoe said: “What attracted me to Eastlight is its commitment to being a resident-led organisation and making sure residents have a meaningful role in the decisions that affect their homes and communities.”

Under former chief executive Emma Palmer, who left in the summer after eight years, Eastlight introduced a customer influence committee and a resident members’ charter, strengthening how residents influence services and hold the organisation to account.

“As a social housing resident myself, I know how important it is that residents feel listened to and can see that their experiences are helping to shape services,” Mr Baffoe added.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know Eastlight’s residents, colleagues and partners, and working with the board to build on the incredible things the organisation has already achieved.”

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Eastlight Community Homes announces appointment of new chair