Meet Niall

As part of our preparation for writing our 2011 Annual Report, we're talking to our tenants and leaseholders about what they think of the projects they've been involved with at East Kent Housing.

Niall has been a valued member of our Disability Forum since it was set up earlier in the year.  We were happy to have the chance to sit down with him over a coffee and a cake and find out why he got involved and what he thought of the work of the Forum so far.

Tell us about yourself...

I'm 34 years old.  I volunteer at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital twice a week, I watch a lot of sport - particularly Gillingham FC, whom I support - and I (try to!) go to the gym twice a week as well.  I'm also working on a book about being a disabled Christian in the twenty first century.  It's hard!

Where do you live and is there anything you like most about it?

I live near the Wincheap area and have done all my life.  I feel safe there because everyone knows who I am - if they don't see me for a few days they start to panic!

Why did you join the Forum?

Although I like to have a laugh, I don't take disability lightly.  I went along thinking that although I probably can't make much of a difference on my own, as part of a group I might be able to help change things for the better.  I thought that even if we just changed one thing, it's been a success.

What work has the Forum done?

We tell the council how their policies affect disabled people and then they make changes.  One of the things we achieved is making sure that in the communal areas of every block we have a list of contact numbers for emergencies.  I'm certainly more aware than I was before about the council's budgets, too.  I feel that I actually understand how the council works now!

Do you think that the Forum is worthwhile and has an impact?

Yes.  We can voice how we feel and make a difference - not just for us, but for people who may become disabled in the future.  It's a real joy to make a difference and be involved.  The Forum has given staff advice that has benefitted not only us in the end but also the council - and it's been good for staff to express their feelings too.

Is there anything the Forum has discussed that you've had strong opinions on?

We once had a really honest debate about the adaptations policy; I'm passionate about living life to the full and seeing things done well, and when it comes to adaptations they really need to fit the needs of the individual.

What do you feel you get out of being involved?

I've got a chance to speak my mind, and say just how frustrated I can be with the issues that disabled people face with their housing.  I'm pleased I've been involved and feel I've had an impact on the group.

A big thank you to Niall for taking the time to come to the council offices on Military Road to speak to us.