Housing Executive’s focus is on ‘keeping tenants safe’

Mairead Myles Davey, the housing body’s Mid and East Antrim area manager, said: “Our whole focus at this time is keeping tenants safe in their homes – guidance on social distancing and the message of Stay Home Stay Safe is paramount. We’ve published guidance on our website www.nihe.gov.uk which deals with key topics like repairs and what to do if you are experiencing homelessness.

“Also we moved quickly to reassure tenants that no one would lose their home due to Covid-19 – enforcement action has ceased and we will deal sympathetically with anyone who is experiencing financial difficulties during this period.

“A particular concern has been around payment of rent costs and we have been working hard to assist tenants in making applications for financial support, as well as reassuring them that we will help them to sustain their tenancies.

“Our patch managers are making regular contact with tenants who may be considered vulnerable to ensure that they are safe and well and, where necessary, signposting them to local groups and businesses who are providing a much-needed delivery service in their various localities.

“Throughout the current Covid-19 situation, we have also been continuing to carry out any repairs of an emergency nature to ensure that our tenants stay safe in their homes.

“We have also been engaging positively with our many community groups right across Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne, and we are currently in the final stages of preparing a Covid Assistance Grants scheme that will financially support local community groups that have been doing tremendous work on the ground.”

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