News

Now comfortably settled in a Golding Homes bungalow after a “difficult” 20-odd years in a succession of privately rented homes, Maureen Finnis could be forgiven for taking it easy.

Maureen, who had been on Maidstone Borough Council’s housing needs list for 22 years, was facing homelessness when Golding Homes offered her a place of her own just over four years ago.

Finally in a place she could call home, the 71 year-old might have sat back and relaxed – but that’s not her style.

Instead Maureen has devoted herself to supporting the community by joining our Customer Sounding Board and volunteering to help organisations such as the Salvation Army.

The Customer Sounding Board, which offers small community grants of up to £1,000 to local organisations, has also given Maureen more of an insight into the way a housing association operates.

“I’ve learned a great deal from the meetings – not least the fact that it is a charity,” she said. “It’s made me realise how much the association does to support its residents. It’s great to be part of the team that decides where the grant money goes, and I have met some interesting people and learned much more about Golding Homes.”

Maureen believes Golding Homes “changed her life” when she was offered her home in Reculver Walk.  “It’s brilliant if you can help make people’s lives easier,” she said. “Golding Homes gave me a place to live and totally changed my life and now I have a chance to give something back in return,” she said.

To join the Customer Sounding Board or apply for a Community Chest Fund visit goldinghomes.org.uk/community