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New charter gives tenants more ways to get involved
Release Date: 16-Jul-2009
Kirklees tenants can look forward to continuing involvement in decisions affecting their homes, thanks to a new tenant participation charter.
Cllr Shabir Pandor (Cabinet Member for Adults & Communities), Kim Brear, Cora Carter MBE and Simon Rogers sign the 2009 Tenant Participation Charter It has been developed with a group of residents from estates managed by KNH, who have guided both the content and the format. Now in its sixth edition, the charter builds on an existing agreement that was introduced in 1992. Since then, tenants and residents have taken part in a wide range of projects that have included a £250 million home improvement programme, choosing repairs contractors, recruiting staff and setting new service standards. Cora Carter, MBE, chair of KFTRA, said: “Kirklees has a proud tradition of involving people in improving services, but we want even more people to get involved in decisions affecting their homes and communities. The new charter will make it easier for all tenants to have their say.” Simon Rogers, Chief Executive of KNH, which manages council housing in Kirklees, agreed: “Our challenge is to build on the success we have achieved by strengthening what we already do and developing new ways that help more people to get involved in different ways.” And Cllr Andrew Marchington, the cabinet member responsible for housing, said: “The council’s ambition is that all members of the community feel that they are listened to and have a real say in decisions about where they live and the services they receive. “Kirklees has been recognised time and again for the pioneering way that tenants shape housing services and the new charter is our commitment to continuing to work together as partners.” Designed as a handy reference guide, the new charter outlines how tenants can get involved in shaping housing services in a number of ways, including: • Tenants’ and residents’ associations – working together to improve the estates where they live and to build community spirit • Community events – coming together to have fun, get to know neighbours and talk to housing staff about any issues • Mystery shopping and surveys – reporting back on the quality of services they receive • Working groups and forums – focusing on specific issues, for example, the repairs service • Tenant committees and area forums – regular meetings with councillors and housing managers to exchange information and raise concerns • Estate inspections – working with housing staff to identify environmental improvements KNH also offers support to tenants who want to get more involved through practical and financial help in setting up and running residents' groups and free access to training programmes organised by KNH staff and the tenants’ federation. Copies of the new charter will be distributed to all tenants and residents’ associations and will also be available on the KNH website – www.knh.org.uk For more information, contact Michaela Howell, Community Engagement Manager on 01484 223215 or Michaela.howell@knh.org.uk.
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