The conference was the result of months of planning, with customer representatives from the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group very much involved in organising the event, developing the agenda and taking an active role on the day.

The event was opened by Councillor Davie McLachlan, Chair of Housing and Technical Resources and Head of Housing Services, Sharon Egan. 

Sharon highlighted that the conference was taking place the day before Scottish Housing Day, which is today (Wednesday 17 September), and this year highlights the importance of good neighbours to wellbeing and living well in our homes.

While providing an opportunity for housing customers from different areas of South Lanarkshire to come together to exchange information and share ideas, a key aspect of the day was to explore the findings from a recent survey on customer engagement and facilitate further discussion on how customers want to engage with the council in the future.  

These discussions will inform revised structures and tailored opportunities for engagement with housing tenants and other customers in South Lanarkshire.

Another topic explored on the day was the upcoming review of the council’s housing allocation policy, which included a workshop session, where customers discussed different housing circumstances and how they should be prioritised.

Councillor McLachlan said: “It was great to see so many people who are keen to become actively involved. 

“I am absolutely clear that people getting involved and letting us know their thoughts is key to ensuring that our services meet the needs of the customers and communities we serve.”