I recently met with Ian Watts, Director of Customer Services, and Rachael Smart, Assistant Director of Housing Services from PA Housing at their offices in Walton to discuss a range of issues local residents are experiencing in their properties.
Many people have been in touch with me to say that the communication between PA Housing and their tenants isn’t regular enough. I have also seen an increase in concerns around repairs such as mould and damp.
I raised these problems with PA Housing directly and will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure all appropriate action is taken by PA Housing.
In addition, I raised some specific cases – such as the condition of the playground next to Caterpillars Pre-School in the St John’s Estate in Walton. This playground plays a vital role in the day-to-day experience of young children at the nursery but unfortunately has fallen into a state of disrepair. PA Housing assured me they will be going to the site to assess the playground in person before reverting back to me with an update.
Whilst, in part, some of the problems tenants have been experiencing arose due to difficulties arising from the pandemic, officials at PA Housing are fully aware of the issues raised.
In light of the problems, senior staff have now undertaken a full review of how they could do things better, in order to improve the experience of residents.
PA Housing have introduced a range of new checks and balances to ensure issues, such as repairs, are carried out in a quicker timeframe. They have also recruited new staff to replace some of the team that have left, so residents should start to see improvements.
I will be keeping a close eye on the situation and following up with PA Housing to ensure these changes improve the experience of residents.
If you are a PA Housing tenant experiencing problems in your home, please do get in touch with me at dominic.raab.mp@parliament.uk so I can look into it on your behalf.
