a BME association managing 750 homes – said: “Because we are small we have difficulties getting involved, yet we are very popular and our tenants are crying out for stock. We are very successful at creating demand and I’m sure we could do so in other areas. We would dearly like to become involved in stock transfer plans in the North-west, but it is done in such a complex way that it becomes almost impossible.
“I just hope the pathfinder gives us our place at the table and recognises that, while we haven’t got a big pot of money, we have got a lot of important skills.”
Janis Wong, chief executive of Tung Sing housing association, said: “There is anxiety that maybe our aspirations won’t be represented.”
Wong has attended two of the National Housing Federation’s pathfinder group meetings, which feed into the main process, but felt there was too much uncertainty for her to make any commitments. She said: “I feel there is a role for us to play, but it’s a question of resources.”
Steve Rumbleow, director of housing at Manchester City Council, defended the pathfinder, saying: “I’m very surprised by this reaction. We’ve worked very closely with both these associations.
If they want to make specific suggestions then of course we’ll listen to them.
“The pathfinder process is not about saying everything in an area has failed. If that is their understanding, then I’m surprised they’ve not come and talked to us. As far as I can see, it sounds like a misunderstanding of what the pathfinder is all about.
“Both Manchester and Salford work very closely with the associations in their areas. We had a meeting on Monday with 20 RSLs to keep them up to date with our progress.”
Staff at the NHF’s Northern office said they were aware of some bad feeling among smaller associations. Annie Hopley, acting head for the North, said: “Local authorities have taken a different view about who they bring to the table at this early stage. No one knows yet who will be invited.”
Source
Housing Today
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