You may have spotted us at Bettws Bottom Site last week, having a wander and catching up with customers who live there!
These events aren’t just about getting fresh air and exercise though – they offer us a chance to get to know our communities better, listen to people’s experiences and consider customers’ views when making decisions.
We brought along our Housing, Estates, Income, Development and Repairs teams so people could chat to us about anything. We were also joined by our Executive Team, Bridgend Council colleagues, and three Members of the Senedd representing all three local political parties.
Here’s how we supported the customers who popped by:
- Helped 6 customers raise a repair
- Collected 5 people’s updated contact details
- Helped 17 customers complete our rent survey
- Noted 30 suggestions about how to improve our estates
- Signed 5 customers up to our ‘engaged customers’ list, giving them the opportunity to take part in future surveys and discussion panels to influence our services.
A heartwarming moment
It was a great turnout, and we were proud to help so many people. One highlight was meeting a deaf family who came along hoping for help getting in touch with Welsh Water. Thanks to colleagues on site who knew British Sign Language (BSL), we broke down those barriers and helped them to get in contact with Welsh Water and report a repair to Llanw!
A whistle-stop tour of Cwrt Cwm Garw
We also took a quick detour to Cwrt Cwm Garw to see our nearly finished 21 new homes that are on track for handover this September!
But what have we learned?
We had lots of positive conversations with customers, but some residents raised concerns about anti-social behaviour in Woodland Close on Thursday and Friday nights, a lack of youth facilities, and footpaths that need repair near the play park.
We also listened to feedback about unused garages in Maesglas, and we are following up directly on a confidential matter raised by a resident.
Building on this feedback, we’ll be door-knocking over the next few weeks to complete more surveys and keep the conversation going.
Thank you to everyone who made the day a success! Keep your eyes peeled for the next Walkabout event.
