Derwent & Solway Housing Association has welcomed two of their tenants to join the board after conducting an election over the summer, which enabled tenants to vote on who they would like to represent their views on the Board.
Paul Kirby from Maryport, who has previously worked as a councillor, took up his new role for D&S in August. Because of his previous experience of tenant issues and concerns, he is particularly concerned in public affairs. Currently, Paul actively supports a local voluntary organisation. Paul moved to Maryport in 2001 following his success in gaining an Honours Law Degree from Warwick University. He is currently employed by Cumbria Constabulary within the Criminal Justice Unit.
Speaking about his future plans, Paul added;
“I’m delighted about becoming a tenant board member! I feel that allocation of tenants is a crucial role in our diverse society and I would like to get fully involved in this. I’m looking forward to articulating tenants’ concerns.”
Similarly, Ray Hingston, from Workington has been welcomed as a tenant board member, and will take up his position in 2008. Ray will spend this year shadowing Paul and attending meetings as often as possible. At present, Ray is involved in D&S’s Customer Involvement Group, which benefits staff by providing them with the customer’s perspective when reviewing and changes services.
Ray commented;
“My time shadowing Paul over the next few months will fully prepare me for my place next year on the board. I wanted to become a board member so that I could help people within my community, and I’m embracing the opportunity.”
Both applied for their positions because of their mutual desire to make a difference to people’s lives within their communities and to assist Derwent & Solway in ensuring customer views are at the heart of their decision making process.
Derwent & Solway also welcomed Councillors Margaret Jackson and Stuart Moffatt to the board as Allerdale Borough Council representatives in August.
Director of D&S Robert Porter added;
“We’re delighted to welcome our new board members. They are a fundamental part of any housing association, and their contribution is crucial to our focus on improving our services.”
For further information please contact Derwent & Solway Housing Association on 01900 607 500.