27 November 2024
By Democrat reporter
West Dunbartonshire Council is aiming to develop more opportunities for tenants to take part remotely in housing matters as part of a new tenant participation strategy.
The Council states that the Involving You to Improve Housing Services strategy and its associated action plan were shaped by the views and comments received by them as part of a Tenant Participation consultation.
Details of the consultation and the draft strategy were presented to the Housing and Communities Committee just a week ago.
More than 400 Council tenants took part in the consultation, which identified that communication, local engagement and improving service delivery were key tenant priorities.
As well as developing more digital options including greater opportunity to join meetings from home and take part in online networks, the strategy focuses on support for existing tenants’ groups and increased engagement with under-represented groups.
Tenants said they wanted more face-to-face contact with housing staff and this has been incorporated in the action plan which will also aim to better promote the range of options available to tenants to get involved.
There is no mention of exactly what they will become involved in.
The action plan is key to making sure the strategy is implemented effectively and regular updates will be provided to tenants. An annual progress report will also be made to the Housing and Communities Committee.
Chief Officer of Housing and Employability, Peter Barry, left, said: “We welcome this strategy as it sets out how we can continue to develop tenant participation while improving the housing services we provide.
“The Council places great emphasis on the views of tenants and I want to thank all tenants who took part in the consultation for this new strategy.
“I am delighted that the strategy involves looking at more ways in which people can share their opinions and feedback, making it easier for tenants to make their voice heard.”