Forth Housing is ‘Happy To Translate’

We are delighted to announce that we are the first organisation in the Stirling area to sign up to the ‘Happy to Translate’ initiative.
‘Happy to Translate’ is a national initiative funded by the Scottish Government. It aims to promote access to information and services by overcoming language
barriers.
The official logo, symbolising successful communication between 2 people who do not share a common language, will be displayed on our literature and in reception areas. This will let non-English readers and speakers know that we will provide confidential translation and interpreting services. Following a few simple steps, staff will determine what language the customer prefers to use, and what information they require.

Gordon Mason, our Chairperson,said: “We wanted to ensure that we were providing a service to all the communities in which we operate. Signing up to the Happy to Translate initiative enables us to break down the barriers that may prevent people accessing our services.”
To find out more about this service please Tel No: (01786) 446066.

Bob Bows Out!
After several years of involvement with Forth’s Management Committee Bob McInally, of Riverside, recently retired from active service.
Gordon Mason marked the occasion by presenting Bob with a bottle of whisky and his wife, Cathy, with a bouquet of flowers. Gordon said “Bob served on committee for many years and helped us with many decisions. He brought a great deal of dedication and humour to the task and we wish both Bob and Cathy many years of happiness.”
Bob will no doubt continue to be active in the Stirling community and we know he is looking forward to visiting his daughter in Canada this summer. Thanks for everything Bob and all the best!
Digital TV Upgrade
The Association has appointed Campbell & Kennedy to undertake the digital up grade of TV aerials to a limited number of its properties in time for the ‘Digital switchover’ in 2010.
The works will start in June on a rolling programme. For further information please see the latest edition of the Forth Estate.
Painter work
The Association has appointed Stirling Council Housing Services’ contractor, Drumbreck Decorators, to carry out the external decoration of its developments at
9A –C Menzies Drive\ 1 – 8 Thistle Place, Raploch.
1 – 22, 26, 27, 30 and 31 Gillespie Terrace, Plean.
2 and 4 Hirst Crescent. 1 – 17, 2 – 48 Colliers Road, Fallin
Weather permitting, these works will start on Monday 7 July and should be completed by the end of the month.
Annual Gas Safety Checks
We have started this year’s round of annual gas safety checks to our properties. These checks are being carried out by Stirling Council Housing Services (SCHS).
Tenants will be advised when the contractor shall call to their home. If this appointment is unsuitable an alternative can be made by phoning 0800 027 588.
Celebrating 20 Years By Announcing Completion of More New Affordable Homes
The opening of our new development at Bryden Road, Whins of Milton was celebrated by the Provost, Margaret Brisley, presenting 2 of Forth’s tenants with a bouquet of flowers, prior to a tour of the properties.
Our Chairperson, Gordon Mason said: “Whilst celebrating our twentieth year of operation the Management Committee is delighted that this new development of 16 new affordable homes for rent and for sale is completed. All the properties have been allocated from our waiting list or from nominations from Stirling Council, to people in housing need.”
This is our first development where a Stirling Council planning condition required the developer, Cala Homes, to make part of the site available for rented housing. This is in accordance with the Council’s Affordable Housing Policy.
Prize Draw Winners
CONGRATULATIONS!!! To David Buchanan for winning the £25 voucher for returning his`Points of View` card during January to March 2008.
Prize Draw Winners
CONGRATULATIONS!!! To Stephen Cowie for winning the £25 voucher for returning his`Customer Feedback on Close Cleaning Survey`.