Thenue celebrates the work of its area associations

Thenue Housing has praised its three area associations, hailing them a vital part of Thenue’s commitment to its communities.

The three associations – in Bridgeton and Dalmarnock, Cranhill and Netherholm in Castlemilk – have been working for many years to identify local priorities and tackle issues that matter to residents.

Thenue said that "their essential role was brought sharply into focus during the worst period of the pandemic" as they "tirelessly helped" local families in partnership with it.

The three area associations – which have the freedom to operate independently of Thenue – were shown how much they are appreciated at an event held in the Calton Heritage and Learning Centre.

The occasion had a twin role – first, to review Thenue’s customer service handbook and examine if it was communicating the key messages Thenue want tenants to understand. It also considered communications activity in relation to Thenue’s service standards.

Secondly, a celebratory lunch was held to thank area association members for their ongoing work with certificates of commendation presented to all those attending.

In his final address to area association members, outgoing Chief Executive Charles Turner, who will retire next month after 17 years, praised their “resilience and passion” and said they were a vital part of the relationship between the housing association and tenants.

Mr Turner said: “I want to thank our three area associations for all they have done and will continue to do. There is no doubt their work provides an essential connection with communities which helps Thenue enormously. It is important that this selfless hard work is recognised, and we appreciate everything that is done in the Netherholm, Cranhill and Dalmarnock and Bridgeton communities.”

Incoming Chief Executive Gary Naylor added: “Thenue Housing recognises the role that our area associations play in the work of our organisation. So much of their commitment, time and effort is often unseen, but at the heart of it all is a strong commitment to improving local communities and guiding the decisions that we make as a housing association. It is right and proper that we held this event not just to again listen carefully to what they had to say but to celebrate and reward their valuable work.”

There was a special mention at the event for the late George Alexander, a stalwart of Thenue Housing and the Netherholm Area Association, who recently passed away. A former Chair of Thenue, and lifelong community activist, he was instrumental in helping create the Netherholm Hall after a 20 year campaign – a triumph for the community and a focal point for community cohesion in Castlemilk. Thenue is working on a way of remembering George in the form of a commemorative plaque – details of which will be announced soon.