We held our 3rd Annual Tenant’s Gathering on Saturday 7 July at Craigtoun Country Park, St Andrews. The venue proved a popular choice last year which is why we decided to hold it there again this year. Over 40 tenants and their families, from as far as Kincardine, Fife came to enjoy one of the sunniest Saturdays at the park.
At the Gathering, we re-launched My Kingdom, an online service where our tenants can access their own tenancy services. Fife Works, Cosy Kingdom and Wise2Welfare were also there to give support and advice for anyone looking for training opportunities or to get back into employment, impartial energy and debt advice and information on the homeless service.
Bill Banks, Chief Executive opened the event by talking about the many ways in which our customers can get involved with us. Bill ended by launching “Choices”, our new funding scheme for our tenants and local residents to access funds to support ideas that can improve their communities.
“Choices” is a Participatory Budgeting Scheme which we have introduced, following recommendations from our Scrutiny Panel and developed in consultation with our tenants. What makes Choices special is that our tenants can vote to decide what ideas or local projects receive the funds. Application packs can be downloaded (Left) or a member of the Customer Contact Team can send one out at your request.
Two of our Scrutiny Panel members, Peter Gibson and George Duncan talked about their own experience as members of the Panel and how enjoyable it is for them to work together to improve the services that our customers receive. The Panel is a group of residents who have received training to help them look at the services we provide. They meet at least once a month and agree what areas need to be looked at then feedback their recommendations to our Board. If you would like to know more about getting involved then contact Max Scotto, our Tenant Participation Officer on 01592 630922 or email customerservices@kingdomhosuing.org.uk.
Naomi Breeze, a professional actress who performs and tours her one person plays on a wide range of topics, gave a very interesting and enjoyable performance. Naomi told a short story about getting involved and brought some funny characters to life, encouraging our tenants to become more involved in participation opportunities.
It was a great event and everyone enjoyed their lunch, particularly the cake and ice-cream. The rest of the afternoon was spent in the park making use of all the facilities and games that the park offered. We are hoping to hold another Gathering in Winter 2018, venue and dates to be confirmed and more information will be given soon.
If you would like to find out more about any of the topics covered at the Gathering, please get in touch.
