Stafford and Rural Homes

October 8, 2008

Customers of Stafford and Rural Homes (SARH) with an idea for improving their community are being invited to a bid for a share of a £100,000 funding pot this month.

The housing association which provides 5,500 homes across the borough has opened up the bidding round for its Customer Initiative Scheme, now in its third successful year.

In previous years the scheme has paid out cash grants to tenants and residents associations for a range of ideas including new fencing, increased security, new lighting or improved landscaping and play facilities.

This year the funding is being made more widely available as John Allen, SARH’s Special Projects Manager explained: “We’re still inviting bids from established tenants and residents associations but now any SARH customer can apply for funding for their idea provided they can get 10 or more other customers to sign their application” he said.

Further information and applications forms are available from Michala Burton in SARH’s Major Investment Team on 01785 216699 or click here to download an application form.

All applications must be returned to SARH by 31st October 2008. They will then go forward to be considered by a panel of SARH technical officers and customers. Applicants will be notified whether their bid has been successful within 7 working days of the judgement panel’s decision being made

“This is a great opportunity for customers to quickly and easily make a difference in their neighbourhood” said John Allen. “All ideas are welcome provided they are something that you and your neighbours will benefit from so get your applications in now!”

Two groups of sheltered housing customers at Marsh and Hopton Court in Stafford and Longhope Drive, Stone, successfully applied for funding in last year’s bidding round to refurbish their communal lounges. Residents of Marsh and Hopton Court are pictured inspecting potential new furniture and furnishings on board a mobile