PCHA, part of Genesis Housing Group, held a tenant support open day for its tenants currently in receipt of support from its tenancy support team. People from Brent, Westminster, Camden, Barnet and Harlesden took part.

The aim of the day, held at Fortunegate Community Housing, Church End, was for service users to learn more about the support team's work and to get involved in shaping the services it offers. 41 people attended from all age groups.

PCHA's Tenant Support team has been helping its more vulnerable service users manage their tenancies successfully - and live their lives with more dignity - for over ten years.

The event included workshops and presentations by various PCHA departments, covering subjects such as maintenance, lettings and allocations, energy efficiency, community development, diversity, and resident involvement teams.

Massage and manicures were provided, as well as a special lunch. Children were entertained with craft and face painting activities, which also allowed their parents to get more fully involved in the workshops and presentations.

An action plan will be produced capturing all the ideas and suggestions made for improving PCHA's range of services, training and activities offered by the Support Team. The success of the day led to an agreement by all that this should become an annual event.

A PCHA resident said "It was great that the event brought all the different parts of PCHA together so we could learn more - I found it very useful and it was great to have the chance to query things. The pampering was wonderful too!"

Pam Lockley, Managing Director of PCHA, said "The Tenant Support open day has proved a valuable way for PCHA staff and tenants to help shape the services PCHA offers. There are plans to repeat the success of this initiative by holding a similar event each year."

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For further information about Genesis Housing Group, please contact

Diana Evanson 020 8150 4178 / email diana.evans@ghg.org.uk

Notes to editors

PCHA has over 40 years experience of owning and managing homes. It currently provides homes and services to more than 10,000 households. PCHA owns and/or manages homes in 18 boroughs across London and the south east. Services include housing management, leasehold management services for shared owners and support services for vulnerable residents.

Genesis Housing Group provides homes and services to tens of thousands of people across London and the south east. The Group consists of PCHA, Pathmeads and Springboard housing associations. It also has a charitable foundation, Genesis Community, and is one of the largest and most diverse housing groups in the UK. Genesis Housing Group owns and/or manages more than 38,000 homes across London and the south east. Its overiding aim is to put customers first and provide excellent service to all.