Residents asked to voice opinions

9/28/2009

Somerset residents are being given the chance to influence housing policy on a national scale.

Magna West Somerset Housing Association (MWS) is inviting its tenants to join a new government-backed initiative.

The National Tenant Voice Council (NTVC) has been set up by the Department for Communities & Local Government to give social housing tenants in England a voice at a national level.

Recruitment for council members is now under way and Williton-based Magna is backing applications from its residents.

MWS director Tony Murray, said: “The structure of the NTV will include a National Tenant Council of 50 tenants. The Council will act as a sounding board on housing policy issues, and will be formed to reflect as closely as possible the profile of social housing tenants on a national scale.

“Recruitment for members of the council has now started and we would actively encourage our tenants to apply.

“Obviously housing issues here in Somerset are very different to those in other parts of the country and so that is why it’s so very important to have a say on the council.
“This is both a great opportunity for Magna tenants and for all social housing tenants in Somerset.”

The creation of the NTVC follows a review of social housing regulation published two years ago. As well as government backing, it’s being supported by the Tenant Services Authority, which regulates registered social housing landlords.

Mr Murray added: “This is a real opportunity for people to make a big difference and Magna is happy to assist any of our tenants who wish to apply.

“Being given a voice at national level is real progress and I would therefore urge people to get involved.”

Magna tenants wanting more information can visit the Hays website or call Clive Barclay, MWS's tenant involvement and research co-ordinator on 01984-635134. The deadline for applications is Friday October 16.