Troubleshooters win praise of tenants

NOMINATED with pride . . . Chris Holt and Steve Smith.

GRATEFUL tenants of Barker Street estate have nominated two people responsible for improving their lives for a Pride in Oldham award.

Housing officer Steve Smith and sheltered accommodation warden Chris Holt spend their working lives sorting out problems and making sure all runs smoothly.

But their dedication goes way beyond mere duty as they help to clear the estate of trouble-causers and organise social events to bring people together.

Chris said: “We were both pleased to be nominated, but it was a big surprise — we didn’t expect it.”

She added: “We had a lot of problems with someone who was terrorising our clients and we worked with the police to get him arrested.

“It’s nice and quiet now for people who live here.”

Around 50 people live in sheltered accommodation in Ramsden Close, Sedgemoor Way, Anvil Way and Unsworth Way.

Chris has managed to secure funding for decorating and new carpeting, weekly coffee mornings and bingo sessions, and for a gardening project.

“I love the job,” she said. “It’s really busy but I love the contact with people and trying to help them.”

Steve deals with housing issues, and works with police to clear the estate of people who cause a nuisance with anti-social behaviour or through alcohol and drugs.

Committed

The group of residents who nominated Chris and Steve said: “Both have gone beyond the call of their jobs to help people.

“We have never known such committed council workers and they are much appreciated by all.”

If you would like to nominate someone for an award, fill in and return the form.