We recently teamed up with Medway Task Force to tackle some of the key issues at Bryant Street and we’re delighted to announce that the partnership received an award at the recent Kent Police Problem Solving Awards.
The Task Force, which includes Kent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, and other important partners, asked us to join them for a day of door knocking at the three tower blocks and Prospect Row in Chatham
The aim was to meet customers and discuss ongoing issues on the estate such as fly-tipping, drug misuse/dealing and anti-social behaviour.
Elaine Steer, who coordinated our involvement, had a great response from our Estates and Asset Team who were keen to be involved.
Our Estates Services Team, arranged for some areas to be cleared of fly-tipping and talked to the police about other remedies to improve the area in future.
The Asset Compliance Team attended to talk to customers about the importance of giving us access to their homes so we can complete the gas, electrical and fire safety checks. We now have a dedicated colleague working with customers who had previously refused us access to do major works.
To allow us all more time with customers, we also held a Fun Day.
Many customers dropped by to see us and enjoyed events for families organised by the Task Force including the chance to sit in a fire engine, police car, push the siren button and enjoy free ice creams! Customer Engagement Office, Ange, also attended and was on hand to talk to customers about how they can help shape and improve the services we provide.
As well as helping us tackle some important issues, both events gave us the opportunity to connect with our customers and build important relationships.
The partnership and event was hailed a success by all involved, leading it to be recognised at the Kent Police Problem Solving Awards, as an innovative resolution that made a difference to local communities.
Elaine Steer, Customer Service Assistant Manager said: “It was great to work with local agencies on this initiative. Although I collected the award, everyone involved deserves to be recognised as we all work to make our estates a safe place to live for our customers.”
As a community-based landlord, creating safe places for people to live is a priority, one we know we can’t meet alone. Our relationship with local partners is vital and this is one example of how we work together successfully.