Link takes stock of tenants' views

Link Housing Board members and Link Tenant Scrutiny Panel members heard directly from tenants about the work of housing staff during a stock tour of developments in and around the Falkirk area.

A group of tenants in Williamson Street highlighted how the communal space is being used – arts and crafts, meetings with takeaways, and getting together for a “blether” are just some of the activities the common space is being used for. They also mentioned using the space had allowed many new friendships between tenants to form.

Another tenant, a young mum with three children, said Link and her housing officer had made a real difference in their lives, and they really loved their home in Whyteside Rise, Polmont.

The visit also took in the Corbiehall building in Bo’ness, which came to Link as part of the Weslo transfer of engagements. The Board and Scrutiny Panel members were given a historical overview of the listed building. The ground-floor flats are currently void, but they could become homes again depending on potential investment to bring them back into use.

The housing officer for the development told those in attendance that the location is very popular with locals as it is in the heart of the town, boasting good amenities. There will likely be high demand for the flats once the work is complete.

Link Housing Board and Tenant Scrutiny Panel members praised the housing officers' knowledge of the housing stock and their positive interactions with tenants.

Paula Pyke, Link Housing Board Chairperson, said: “I was thoroughly impressed by the housing officers' knowledge of the homes Link is responsible for managing. We got a real insight into the history of each development we visited, and how popular they are with tenants looking to move to the area.

“Tenants also raised issues with housing officers during the visit. You got a real sense the tenants’ concerns were being taken seriously and staff were there to help. We thoroughly enjoyed visiting the Link Housing stock in Falkirk, and there was plenty of information and insight that will assist the Board in making effective decisions. Thank you to everyone involved who made this visit such a success.”

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