SandraS

Before I explain my experiences of feeling stigmatised as a tenant of Leeds Fed, I have to say that there has been a huge change for the better in the handling and attitude of the customer facing staff at Leeds Fed and also the repairs handling and service delivered. For some years it seemed an uphill task to report repairs and receive a courteous, efficient service in return. I actually feel like an equal now rather than subservant. I know that Stephen Blundell was a real advocate for this and I am pleased that the changes have happened.

What I have experienced, as recently as in the last 12 months, is that when 3rd party businesses become involved, on behalf of Leeds Fed or Engie, it reverts back to being treated with a curt, talked down to, manner. It may ( from personal experience) be a company providing doors and windows, asbestos checking, or roof maintenance.

I know that LFHA provide these contractors with the names of the tenants, as well as the address, but to be asked whether I am " the tenant" rather than Ms Smith - to be told that LFHA are the customer, not me. It is almost as if people forget that this is our home. The irony is that I have to answer a number of security questions if I ring LFHA but these people phone you and don't even address you by your name!

At risk of repeating myself over and again, I do feel that we " good tenants" are often lumped in with people who don't respect their tenancy or property and given short shrift as a result.