CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 2023/24
2023 – 2024 proved to be quite a busy year with some problems being very demanding on the time and dedication of the Trustees.
One of our properties become vacant rather unexpectedly which gave us the opportunity to undertake a complete renovation of the property. As this involved various tradesmen, some of whom needed to work in conjunction with each-other, the work took some time. However, the property was brought up to the high standard we maintain. A new tenant was quickly installed.
With the ever increasing cost of property maintenance, together with other demands on our finances, it was reluctantly concluded that a rent increase was necessary. As our tenants had not had an increase in rent for well over ten years they accepted that this was justified and no objections were raised. The new rents are still well below the average of similar properties in the vicinity.
One of our Trustees has spent a great deal of time and effort upgrading the Trust website. It is now more informative and in keeping with the objectives of the Trust.
The two Air Ambulances which serve this area have received donations from the Trust as have the Myton Hospice, Shakespeare Hospice and Primrose Hospice. Donations have also been made to the Friends of the Alexandra Hospital and Cancer Research U.K.
Lifelines have continued to be supplied to vulnerable people within the Parish together with contributions towards the installation of stair lifts in order to enable people to remain in their own homes.
The weekly shopping bus has been continued as it has proved invaluable to some of our residents who do not have personal transport. It is also seen as a welcome social service as some of the users would have little social interaction otherwise. The new provider has proved to be as reliable as his predecessor.
Parishioners of seventy years of age and over have continued to enjoy the annual distribution of cheques, regardless of need, and many letters, cards and emails have been received expressing appreciation.
Although there have been a number of applications for financial assistance, some for quite substantial sums, many were from as far afield as Nottingham and Derby. These were refused as they did not conform to the Trust’s terms and conditions.
We have continued to reassess out investment strategy and, although it is early days, the results are most encouraging.
As far as is possible we continue to use local tradesmen who serve us well and act quickly when problems occur. The gardeners keep the communal areas of grass and hedges under control. They also ensure that the ditch is kept free from debris, essential with the amount of rain we have recently suffered.
My fellow Trustees make a point of keeping a watchful eye on our properties and liaise with the tenants in order to pre-empt any possible problems. My thanks go to them all for their thoughtfulness and hard work.
D. Shaw