National training award helps Pewsey resident become a community leader

Local housing association Sarsen is empowering its tenants to become community leaders by funding their learning with theChartered Institute of Housing (CIH).

Resident Charlotte Watts from Pewsey is studying for the CIH Level 2 Award in Community Action in Housing so that she can play an active role in her community. This involves understanding the diversity of communities and how housing associations work with other organisations to provide a wide range of local services.

As part of the course, the 38-year-old has been teaching her community to care for the environment. She organised a litter pick and junk modelling workshop to promote respect for the environment and the benefits of recycling.

The event attracted more than 30 people, including local residents, Sarsen staff, parish councillors and local youth club members to join her for the event.

She said: “People are sick to the back teeth of seeing rubbish lying around and I was keen to do something about it. Litter picking with friends and family can be fun and satisfying, and it helps highlight the problem.”

This year Sarsen launched a £10,000 training programme to help residents learn new skills for free so they get more out of working with Sarsen and their community, and improve their chances of getting a job. Two hundred places were available on more than 15 courses including subjects such as maths, English, computer skills and book keeping. The CIH course involves a mixture of classroom learning and community activities and students are supported by a mentor.

Katy Mascall, Sarsen’s resident involvement advisor, said: “The CIH award is a nationally recognised qualification and it’s a great way for residents to get involved in community work. We’re running the course in partnership with Raglan Housing Association and Wiltshire Council so our residents can also see how other housing providers work and what they do in their local communities.”

For more information about Sarsen’s training programme call Katy Mascall on (01380) 735469 or email katy.mascall@sarsen.co.uk