Tenants Lead the Way

More than 120 tenants attended the fourth annual tenants conference at the Wigan Investment Centre on 18^th September – and it proved to be the most successful so far.

A group of tenants planned the day and put together a varied agenda that resulted in an enjoyable and informative day for everyone who attended. Among the highlights were:

The launch of the new ‘tenants compact’ - "The Tenants' Partnership Agreement";
The gardening competition awards by the Mayor of Wigan, Councillor Wilf Brogan;
Workshops, where tenants were able to give their views on issues like ‘day to day' repairs, the new allocations process, how to plan a community project and the standards of service that people should expect from Wigan and Leigh Housing.
‘Good neighbour’ awards to tenants and residents from Wigan Homes and Leigh Homes.
Presentations from tenants, officers and the Leader of the Council, Lord Peter Smith, on a range of topics chosen by the organising group.

During the lunch break, "Echoes of Africa" performed traditional African dance routines on stage in the main hall. Tenants were also able to take part in several fun competitions during the day.

Irene Carter, vice chair of FOTARA. (Federation of Tenants and Residents Associations) and a member of the organising group said:

"The organising group put a great deal of time and effort into setting up our conference. The conference is one of the main consultation events in the year and we tried to make it interesting and informative for everyone. We chose subjects that affect all of us and the areas we live in. Feedback from the day has been very positive and we are delighted that tenants of all ages from all over the borough were able to come along."