Swindon’s council tenants asked to share feedback
'Let’s Talk Housing’ events have been taking place for the last week
People living in Swindon's council homes are urged to share their views on the service.
It is as Swindon Borough Council's last event in the current ‘Let's Talk Housing’ series is taking place in Penhill Drive tonight.
The events are a chance for residents to give feedback and learn about current ongoings as well as future plans.
Councillor Janine Howarth, cabinet member for housing, said: “If you are a tenant in one of our homes, we want to hear from you. We know we must make improvements, and this series of events are a valuable opportunity for tenants to have their voice heard.
“Whether you register your place at the events online, or turn up on the night, you will be given the time to tell us about any issues you face with your property. Thank you to everyone who has already told us they will attend, as we continue to make changes to the services we provide.”
Last month, Swindon Borough Council received the results of an inspection by the Regulator of Social Housing which revealed “serious failings” in the authority’s services.
The event involves a presentation from the council’s interim director of housing, Andrew McDonald, which will allow residents to find out more about the issues discovered and the measures taken.
Tenants will also be able to learn more about the council’s new Housing Asset Management Strategy as well as about its goal to invest £250m into improving and refurbishing council homes over the next five years.
“It’s vitally important that tenants come to one of the events because it’s their home”, added Cllr Howarth, who will also be in attendance.
“It’s their house, it’s their home, it’s where they live. It’s important that they give us their views on how we can make their homes as safe and as decent as possible moving forward.”
All tenants attending the event will also be given access to a survey on Tenant Satisfaction Measures as well as take part in an engagement exercise which will be used to inform the design of the authority’s new tenant handbook.
Housing Service officers will be in attendance to allow residents to report any issues with their property or their tenancy.
The final event will be taking place from 6pm to 8pm at John Moulton Hall Community Centre today (17 June).