From 1 April the Localism Act of 2011 made me and all other councillors, MPs and tenant panels “designated person”

This means we can refer problems social tenants experience to the Housing Ombudsman. Previously  the  Housing Ombudsman would only consider complaints after te housing providers complaints procedures have been exhausted – often and exhausting process – and within 6 months.

This is particularly good news for housing association tenants. Previously councillors really felt disarmed when presented with terrible problems with housing associations properties.

At last we can help in such cases.

if you have a social housing problem do use your local councillors. We now have more powers to try and help.