Tenancy film project bags top award

The Council’s Customer Liaison Service and the Federation had agreed early in 2020 that they would produce a video https://youtu.be/1qR8djgQyBU​ that would provide tenants with clear and accurate information about their tenancy agreement. The video, which was introduced by local tenant Lynn, was designed to be easy to access for new and existing council tenants, helping to break down barriers tenants may experience and enable them to have a better understanding of their tenancy agreement.

Councillor Elena Whitham, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities said: “By working collaboratively, the Council’s Customer Liaison Service and East Ayrshire Federation of Tenants and Residents have developed and created a useful resource for tenants that has also been well used by Council employees and elected members. The video, which was launched on Scottish Housing Day last September, helps tenants to feel happy and safe in their homes.

“People are the heart of everything we do and we work hard to ensure that our tenants fully participate and engage with the Council. We achieve this by working closely with the Federation. They are a talented and very committed group who are helping to transform the lives of local people. I was delighted they, virtually, lifted this award with our employees, they are a very strong partnership and deserve this recognition.”

Bruce Cuthbertson, Chairperson of East Ayrshire Federation said: “We are delighted to be part of the journey going forward to provide better services for the tenants and residents of East Ayrshire. The video was such a worthwhile project and I am so pleased for everyone involved that our partnership has been recognised at a national level. The video ensures that all tenants can easily understand their tenancy agreement and can access clear, concise information from a mobile device.

“We are confident that the future is bright when the projects we are working on are implemented, reflecting the views of both the Council and their tenants.”

Lynn Graham, Secretary of the East Ayrshire Federation of Tenants and Residents said: "The Federation has worked with and been supported by East Ayrshire Council for many years, so when we were asked to get involved we didn't hesitate, and it was a lot of fun. We are very grateful to the Customer Liaison team, Housing Services, Vibrant Communities and TIS for their support to make this project work, we all worked well together through difficult and challenging times last year. We are delighted with this award and look forward to many more years of working together for the benefits of all tenants."

East Ayrshire Federation of Tenants & Residents’ overall aim is to promote the rights of tenants and residents throughout East Ayrshire in the maintenance and improvement of housing conditions, local amenities, and the overall environment, along with promoting a thriving community spirit throughout the neighbourhoods they work with. They are supported by the Tenants Information Service and funded and registered by East Ayrshire Council.