As a landlord, we place particular importance on ensuring that when a new tenant moves into a council home, they are fully aware of the services available to them, their rights as a tenant but also their responsibility to show respect for others.

We recognise the importance of ensuring that people who are moving into their first home get the right advice and support. Our HomeStart Officers provide a range of information, advice and assistance to help new tenants to settle into their new home and the wider community.

HomeStart Officers work closely with all new tenants to make them aware of their responsibilities, such as keeping their home clean and tidy, taking out bins and the importance of being a considerate neighbour.

As no two people are the same, the support provided by HomeStart is tailored to the needs of the tenant and can range from assistance to register gas and electricity, advice on managing finances or help to register with a doctor.

Some new tenants may require a bit more support than others, so we also work with partner agencies and other services such as Housing Support Officers and Social Work Resources, to ensure that longer term help is provided to tenants where required.

This year, to help young people plan for their first tenancy, Housing Services is running a new initiative which will be delivered in high schools.

The main aims of the initiative are to:

• build relationships between young people and Housing Services, highlighting the support that is available to help them successfully manage and maintain a tenancy
• help them understand the responsibilities and obligations of being a tenant
• provide them with the confidence and skills to enjoy their home and crucially how to be a good, respectful neighbour.

We understand that sometimes difficulties can arise and when this happens local Housing Officers are on hand to help.

Housing Officers provide advice and assistance on a range of tenancy matters with the aim of helping to ensure that neighbours live safely and happily within their community.

If you need help on how to manage your tenancy or feel you need some extra support, please contact your local Housing Officer to discuss this in more detail