Tenant Association celebrates 20 years of community success

PRADOS in St Deny’s was established by local residents two decades ago, but the group is still going strong, providing a voice for tenants and leaseholders.

The active Tenants Association (TA) works as a link between the community and the council, helping to resolve any issues in the local neighbourhood for residents at Bellamy Court, Griffin Court, Ingram Court, and Pettinger Gardens sheltered housing schemes.

Residents who need to report a problem in their home or the local area can talk to a committee member and the TA will liaise with the council on their behalf. Residents can also join the TA on regular neighbourhood walkabouts to point out issues or report any external repairs to blocks.

As well as helping to ensure the local neighbourhood is well maintained, the TA also organises social events and activities to bring the community together, including a Friday Art Group. In addition to the PRADOS organised activities, there is also bingo on a Tuesday at Bellamy Court and a weekly coffee morning every Wednesday. Activities are open to all.

As Committee member Eileen explains, the social activities are a great way for neighbours to get to know one another whilst keeping fit and active:

“I’ve been involved with PRADOS since we moved here 16 years ago. I first got involved because being newly retired and moving to a different area I thought it would be a good way to get to know more people and find new interests. I’ve made lots of good friends over the years and I say to people even though you are getting older you can still do some good and find new skills. It’s so friendly here with so much going on, no one ever has to feel alone or isolated at home.”

As to what makes a successful Tenants Association, Eileen says the secret to the PRADOS success is teamwork. “Most importantly we work together as a committee, we respect one another’s point of view and we care about our community and each other. I am very proud of PRADOS and would say to anyone thinking of joining a tenants committee to go ahead and get involved. I’d also like to say thank you to all the council staff that have been involved with PRADOS over the past 20 years for their help.”

If you would like to join or establish a TA in your neighbourhood, contact our Tenant Engagement team for help and support. If there isn’t already an established TA covering your area, we can help you set up a formal group and even apply for grants to fund projects or equipment that would benefit your local neighbourhood.