Minister Backs Gold Service

Tim Loughton, Minister for Children & Families paid a return visit to Irwell Valley last Thursday (July 8) for an update on Gold Service.

The MP for East Worthing and Shoreham last came to Irwell Valley in 2001, when he was Shadow Minister responsible for urban regeneration and housing. At the time, the innovative incentive and reward service was three years in operation after receiving the largest Innovation & Good Practice Grant from the Housing Corporation to run a pilot scheme.

Commenting after his recent visit, the Minister said:

“Irwell Valley's Gold Service clearly demonstrates a common sense deal for residents, positively encouraging good tenancy management and citizenship.”

Launched in 1998, Gold Service aimed to address a situation where 80% of Irwell Valley’s resources were being spent on only 20% of residents.

Since then, Irwell Valley’s performance has shown exceptional improvement. Currently over 70% of Irwell Valley residents have a clear rent account, compared to 40% at the start of Gold Service.

92% of Irwell Valley residents are Gold Service members with 79% qualification (i.e. they are meeting the qualification criteria)

Solid Gold was launched in 2005 to recognise Irwell Valley’s most loyal customers, offering a range of additional benefits to residents who have maintained continued Gold Service status for 2 years,

Tim Loughton added:

“Other Registered Providers would do well to look at the scheme as it clearly delivers improved services that tenants really value, strengthens communities at the same time, and improves business performance”