Gareth advocates for housing association tenants

When Gareth moved into his shared house in 2017 he lacked confidence and was very shy and reserved. He worked with mirus staff and made a plan to grow his confidence by taking on more responsibility at home.

Gareth rents his home from First Choice Housing Association (FCHA), an organisation who provide adapted homes that are tailored to people’s requirements. Gareth was supported to make a list of things around his home that needed to be repaired so that staff could inform FCHA. 

Once his confidence had grown, mirus staff suggested that Gareth should telephone FCHA to request the repairs himself. 

At first he was nervous, but before long Gareth was able to confidently complete the FCHA contact sheet without support, and could organise repairs for his home independently.

Recently Gareth has extended his role even further and has become a tenant advocate. He has attended important meetings in person and through video call to give FCHA feedback on areas that they could improve. He has also been involved with fun activities with other FCHA tenants.

Nigel from FCHA said:

“Gareth has been a very valued participant in FCHA’s tenant engagement activities and has attended a large number of events, ranging from ten pin bowling and discos to consultation events and even a Board of Management meeting.

The Board members were very impressed with Gareth in his role of Tenant Advocate. Gareth has been an important member of our tenants panel and has become a key tenant representative for First Choice.

We look forward to this relationship continuing for many years to come and would like to thank Gareth for all of his hard work and his responsible attitude.”

Gareth has also been successful in recent bowls competitions and has played for Wales in a kit that was sponsored by FCHA.  

Gareth’s increase in responsibility and activities has grown his confidence and had a positive effect on his wellbeing. Gareth can’t wait to attend even more events and represent other FCHA tenants in future.