Member Article

Engaging new recruit for Byker Community Trust

Byker Community Trust (BCT) has reinforced its commitment to give residents a say in the future of the Byker Wall Estate with the appointment of David Jones as Head of Engagement and Community Development.

David is relishing his new role, which will enable tenants to have a real say in the development of the Byker Estate and its community. He is passionate about engaging with tenants, community groups and other stakeholders to ensure that everyone is given a voice.

“We want to work with tenants and partners to find ways of improving things so that we can find solutions that will help Byker to thrive,” said David. “Putting residents at the heart of everything we do was a key pledge made by the BCT when the tenants chose to transfer their homes from Your Homes Newcastle in a local referendum.”

With more than 30 years’ experience in housing and community engagement, most recently with Cestria Community Housing Association in Chester-le-Street, David has hit the ground running in his efforts to engage with local residents and community groups in Byker.

“David comes to the BCT with many years of experience and a passionate belief in the benefits of community engagement,” said Jill Haley, Chief Executive of the Byker Community Trust. “His role is a very important part of our commitment to engage with the Byker community and involve our tenants in the future of the Byker Estate.”

The BCT is currently mid-way through a £25 million investment in the future of the Byker Wall Estate, with work recently commencing on the £9.5 million redevelopment of the Byker Wall itself

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah Shannon .