MUIR VOTING TO GIVE MORE POWER TO THE PEOPLE
MUIR wants to give residents the power to make housing associations more accountable when they fail to deliver.
The ‘Together with Tenants’ initiative being developed by the National Housing Federation (NHF) aims to address a lack of consistency between different landlords, and enhance the trust people have in housing associations across the UK.
Such is Muir’s commitment to the plan, the Association has signed up as an ‘early adopter’ – enabling it to provide feedback on initial proposals after consulting with its own new National Residents Group (NRG).
Jackie Perry, Muir’s Assistant Director of Communities and Customer Service (pictured) said: “We promote engagement with residents and we want to give them greater confidence to give us feedback – and understand that if something has gone wrong, we will put it right and honour your trust.
“Muir works hard to create positive relationships with residents, while providing safe, decent and affordable homes and supporting services.
“We want residents to know they can let us know if they’re not happy with the way we’ve handled something, or tell us if they are pleased with our services too.”
By providing feedback obtained from Muir’s NRG, Muir residents have had a constructive input to the ‘Together with Tenants’ plan, allowing it to develop in a way that’s fit for purpose and fit for you.
By signing up to the ‘Together with Tenants’ charter, each housing association will be agreeing to ensure the following eight commitments.
1. Every tenant and resident has the right to be treated with respect.
2. Every tenant and resident has the right to a decent, safe home and quality service.
3. Every tenant and resident has the right to be listened to and have their view heard on decisions that affect their community, home and the services they receive.
4. Every tenant and resident has the right to know how the organisation is run, how decisions are made, and how they can get involved.
5. Collectively, tenants and residents have the right to influence decisions that affect their community, home and the services they receive.
6. Every tenant and resident will have simple, clear and accessible routes for raising issues, making complaints and seeking redress.
7.Every tenant and resident will receive support and advice when things go wrong or their expectations aren’t met.
8. Every tenant and resident will have access to the information they need to make informed decisions and hold their landlord to account.
The NHF hopes to implement the new initiative following feedback from the NRG and similar groups at other housing associations.