23rd March 2020
Dear Tenant
Our service to you
I know that we are all worried about the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and so I am writing to tell you of the changes which we are making to our services as a result of the recent measures introduced by the UK and Scottish Governments. All our decisions have been made in the best interests of the health, safety and wellbeing of you, our tenants and that of our staff.
Help at the end of the phone
Our office is now closed to the public following the most up to date public health advice. However, we would like to reassure you that we are still available at the end of the phone and you can contact your Housing Officer for help and advice.
Keeping safe
If you phone us about repairs or housing issues, please let us know if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, are self-isolating, or have an underlying health condition so we can work out the best course of action.
In order to protect both your own health, safety and wellbeing and that of our staff, please follow the most up to date public health information and advice. This is being widely reported and distributed via media channels and is available via www.nhsinform.scot. There is also a free helpline – 0800 028 2816.
Advice about wages and rent payments
Our business is carrying on as usual and rent is still due at the beginning of every month. If you are worried about not getting your wages or about not being able to pay your rent, please call us straightaway. You may be able to apply for Universal Credit or other benefits and we can give expert help and advice. It’s important that you don’t delay otherwise you may miss out on money you are due.
Repairs and maintenance
We are still trying to provide as normal a repairs service as possible. However, on occasion we may have to limit our service to emergency repairs or those essential to your health and safety only. Please continue to report any repairs you have, and our staff will let you know the level of service we are able to provide.
Unfortunately, we have had to suspend our work on refurbishing the bathrooms for the time being in the interests of health and safety. We understand that this is frustrating, but your co-operation and understanding is appreciated at this difficult time.
Elderly and Vulnerable
If you are struggling to get to the shops or need a bit more help or if you know of anyone in difficulty, then we can put you in touch with local organisations who can help those most in need at this time. Our Housing Officers will be keeping in touch with our elderly tenants to make sure that they are getting the support they need and to offer reassurance.
Keeping in touch
We will review how we deliver our services daily and will continue to prioritise essential services following advice from the UK and Scottish Governments. We will try to let you know any significant changes that affect you and will be keeping our website www.muirhouseha.org.uk updated with information as well as updating via Facebook.
I appreciate that this is a very uncertain time for everyone but please be
reassured that MHA is and will continue to do all we can to keep essential services going in the coming weeks and months.
If you would like to discuss anything, please contact us on 0131 336 5282 or info@muirouseha.org.uk
Yours sincerely
Stevie Mcavoy
Chief Executive