Barnsley Federation of Tenants and Residents Hold AGM
Barnsley Federation of Tenants and Residents, in partnership with Berneslai Homes, last week held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Shaw Lane Rugby Club.
The AGM was attended by over 75 people including the Mayor of Barnsley Councillor Margaret Sheard, members of the 19 Barnsley Tenants and Residents Associations (TARAs), staff from Berneslai Homes and Barnsley Council’s Strategic Housing and its partners.
Speakers at the AGM included Kier and Berneslai Homes Construction Services, who both carry out repairs and maintenance to Council properties. They did a presentation on community engagement and focused on how they engage with your young people and hard to reach groups. A presentation was also held by Michael Gelling, Board member of the Tenants and Residents of England (TAROE) and Chair of the National Tenants Voice. His presentation was based on customer engagement at a national level and how tenants and landlords can work together to get the services they want and pride in where they live.
Ardsley TARA was presented with a cheque for £300 from the Federation Funding Pot. The TARA are currently involved in a project to convert a Greenfield site into a nature reserve and the money will fund some benches. The Federation Funding Pot offers the chance for every TARA to bid for up to £500 for a community project
A presentation was made to Treasurer Kath White and independent representative for Penistone member Ann Dawson who have both served six years each at the Federation and have this year decided to step down.
The event concluded with the announcement of a new Chair of Barnsley Federation Joan Whitaker who takes over from Barry McGowan after 10 years in the post. The decision was made following a ballot by members. Barry adds, “I would like to congratulate Joan on her new appointment and thank everyone at the Federation, Berneslai Homes and Barnsley Council for supporting me through the years.”
Joan Whitaker added, “I’m delighted to have been appointed as new Chair. I look forward to listening and working with the Federation, TARAs, Berneslai Homes and Barnsley Council to make a difference to the people of Barnsley. This last year has been a successful and busy year and I aim to contribute to the Federations further success in the coming year.”
If you are a TARA and would like further information on the Funding Pot please contact Barnsley Federation of Tenants and Residents Association on Tel: 01226 781172, email: barnsleytara@supanet.com or visit their website www.barnsleytaras.org.uk
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