The Housing and Regeneration Committee approved additional funding of £4000 for 2022/23 to support plans for NLF to move to new, improved premises and agreed that a further 5% increase be made yearly, for the duration of its new business plan (2022–2025), totalling £17,240.50.

Established in 2006, NLF, the largest tenants and residents’ group in Scotland, ensures residents receive excellent, quality housing and related services. It promotes and encourages tenants and resident involvement, making a difference by taking forward the views of the local people.

Councillor Heather Brannan-McVey, committee convener, said: “We’ve established a strong working relationship with NLF and through the support of their members and council partnership working, the Federation continues to thrive, achieving its aims and objectives.

“The NLF’s aims align with those contained in our Tenant Participation Strategy and we’re driving forward our shared vision to shape and improve services to help build strong communities. This has never been more important as we recover from the covid pandemic, and we’re committed to reducing inequalities and providing accessible opportunities for all to become involved in.”

One of NLF’s ambitions is to establish a Digital Inclusion Project to improve digital engagement across North Lanarkshire. And their plans for new premises will support this and provide more flexible use of accommodation.

Anne McGhee, chair of North Lanarkshire Federation of Tenants and Residents, added: “For many years, the Federation has had a great working relationship with the council and has a shared vision of encouraging tenants to get involved in shaping and improving their housing service. This additional commitment allows us to grow as an organisation and put our plans in place to fully support tenants throughout North Lanarkshire.”