The Government’s “Respect Agenda” suggests that every citizen should work together with landlords and local agencies to build a society in which we can respect one another – where anti-social behaviour is rare, and is tackled effectively when it does happen, and where communities can live in peace together.

So how do we apply this principle? Well, in Gamston for example, tenants have, with staff help, put together our first good Neighbour Agreement. The response from tenants living in Gamston has been encouraging. Already we have had 40% of tenants sign up and we are confident that more will follow this early example of commitment.

Tenant representative and member of the Gamston Estate Action Group, Alison Holland, commented, "I was talking to a neighbour recently and he felt that things were a lot quieter since the Good Neighbour Agreement was introduced. It really is much better round here." She continued, "We have nice homes in a nice area and by working together we have built up a good community spirit."

As the Society prepares to sign-up more formally to the "Respect Agenda", we will be considering Good Neighbour Agreements for our other housing schemes. If you are a tenant, let your Housing Officer know on 0116 220 5507 if you think your area would benefit from a similar, community-led initiative.