Tenant participation newsletter: making a difference

Investing in young people at Queens Cross

The association held many free events during the summer holidays for local children

Providing opportunities to local young people has always been important to Queens Cross Housing Association.

And in the Year of Young People, 2018 saw the social landlord make a difference in more ways than ever.

Community Chest

The association, based in north-west Glasgow, launched its ‘Queens Cross Community Chest’ fund in January last year.

The fund gives grants of up to £150 to help improve the quality of life for young people under 25.

It was set up in response to findings in the association’s latest tenants’ survey, which showed that poverty was still a real issue for many families living in the area.

According to the findings, 18% of tenants with children have had to put off buying children’s shoes and 27% have had to say no to a hobby or sport for their children because of the cost.

“Our neighbourhoods are great places to live and work but as a housing provider we can also help address wider issues of poverty that still exist in too many of our households,” said Queens Cross Chief Executive, Shona Stephen.

“We launched the Community Chest to help more people and families pursue their interests and take opportunities open to them.”

Thirteen-year-old Tia Warren was one of the first to benefit, with the donation allowing her to buy sports equipment to pursue her Muay Thai hobby.

Tia’s mum, Leanne Miller, spoke positively of the project. “I think this fund is a great idea – we could never have afforded the kit without it,” she said.

“It’s really opening up new opportunities for Tia to pursue something she otherwise might not have.”

The grant has also funded other projects such as educational trips, college courses and clothing for job interviews.

So far, the fund has successfully awarded 182 grants totalling nearly £15,000, with another £10,000 pledged for 2019.

Holiday programmes

Aside from the scheme, the association is involved heavily within the community, running weekly classes and activities for children and families throughout the year.

These included homework cafes, youth clubs and digital sessions which improve children’s practical and social skills.

Queens Cross also sees the important need for events and activities to keep young people busy during holiday periods.

They run extensive Easter and summer programmes, providing free child events and trips, with healthy breakfast and lunches provided, for families who otherwise could not afford the costs.

Away from the community, the social landlord also provides opportunities to young people within the association.

In 2018, nine people under 26 have been employed by Queens Cross, including two modern apprentices, two trade apprentices and three graduate trainees.

The association also employed two customer advisers and worked with local schools to offer short-term work placements.

Bronny’s story

And one young person is now involved in decision-making at the very top, with association tenant Bronwyn Wyper the newest member of Queen Cross’ Board.

After becoming homeless, the 22-year-old was supported by the association’s youth homelessness service for a number of years.

She continued to be involved with Queen Cross’ homelessness team, working closely with current residents and volunteering at community events.

She became a Young Inspection Volunteer with the Care Inspectorate, using her experience of receiving support to try and improve services for young people across Scotland.

Now appointed to the Board, she can bring a younger perspective to the role.

“We struggle to get diverse membership on our Board so Bronny will give us a real insight into the issues facing our young tenants which will be invaluable. She will be a real asset to us,” said Shona.

“Bronny is exceptional as she has not let her childhood or becoming homeless hold her back. Using these experiences in a positive way to help others is truly inspiring.”

The association didn’t just invest in young people but also recognised them at their Pride of Queens Cross Awards in November.

Held every two years, the awards are designed to recognise outstanding achievements in the community, and Bronny was one of those honoured.

She received the ‘Young People’s Outstanding Service to the Community’, with her efforts with the Care Inspectorate receiving particular praise from the judges.

Shona added: “It is important that we focus on what our youth have achieved in helping to build stronger, happier communities.”

For more information visit
http://www.qcha.org.uk

tenant participation

The Queens Cross Community Chest fund was launched in January 2018

Bronny, left, at the Pride of Queens Cross awards in November

tenant participation