COUNCIL tenants in Cam have welcomed a fun new way of being consulted about what they want.

Around fifty people turned up to a family ‘Have Your Say’ day at community hub GL11 last week.

Tenants had the chance to express their views to councillors and housing staff about issues such anti-social behaviour, repairs, estate walkabouts and recycling.

Meanwhile, children were kept busy enjoying circus skills, face painting and art activities, and adults could try henna and felt-making.

One resident from the area Carole Wise said: “There was such a lot of effort put in by all of the officers and residents involved.

“It was really helpful to be able to have a chat about our issues in a more informal environment, without the time restrictions and deadlines of a meeting.

“It was so appreciated. We also felt that it encourages a wider range of input from tenants about important decisions that affect them.”

The idea behind the fun-day was to reach out to tenants who might not feel comfortable - or have the time - to come to formal meetings at the Stroud District Council chambers in Ebley Mill.

Chairman of SDC’s housing committee Cllr Mattie Ross said: “This was an innovative way of reaching our tenants and gathering their views.

“The day was very positive, and the informal nature seemed to encourage new tenants who otherwise wouldn’t have come to a formal meeting at Ebley Mill.”

The next event will be on Wednesday, July 22, from 2pm to 8pm at Nailsworth Youth Centre.

For more details contact resident.involvement@stroud.gov.uk