Housing Executive staff stepping up support for its tenants

With a network of 260 Patch Managers working on the ground across Northern Ireland, the Housing Executive is well placed to continue to provide the best possible service to local tenants, whilst maintaining social distancing.

Aside from financial and maintenance queries, these patch managers and other staff have implemented regular telephone calls for elderly and vulnerable tenants across Causeway Coast and Glens.

Housing Executive patch managers and other staff are contacting elderly tenants and those with known vulnerabilities to make sure they are coping.

This has provided tenants with a link to the outside world during their isolation period and has facilitated link-ups with local community groups providing

groceries and pharmacy pick-ups.

Patch Manager for the Coleraine area, Evelyn Conn, has found the service very useful in increasing community cohesion during Covid-19.

She said: “Speaking to tenants at this time has been very rewarding. Residents have been able to get queries resolved, as well as being signposted to local businesses and community groups who can help those unable to leave their homes.

“Many of our tenants are managing these unusual circumstances well, but people living alone miss basic human contact and are socially isolated, as well

as being fearful of this virus.

“I’ve spoken to tenants who are so glad to hear someone’s voice, and haven’t been in touch with anyone for many days. It’s very satisfying and humbling to know we are providing a friendly voice and some much-needed support alongside our usual housing services.”

One tenant Evelyn spoke to last week, Francis Pollard from Ballysally, explained that the call from the Housing Executive was a great support for him.

Francis said: “I couldn’t believe the Housing Executive called to make sure my home was safe and I had enough food and medication.

“Evelyn advised me about the additional services the local community do for me, and now Building Ballysally Together are delivering my groceries for me.

“It’s such a relief to know help is there if I need it.”

The Housing Executive has also provided up to date information and short videos about their services online.

Visit www.nihe.gov.uk to access this information, or check out the Housing Executive on social media via Facebook @housingexecutive, or Instagram

and Twitter @nihecommunity.