Background To Federation
FORTAC was set up in 1996 as an umbrella group for all Tenant, Resident and Leaseholder groups throughout Corby as it was felt that it was important that they should be able to communicate with each other more freely.
The Federation has continued to expand its capabilities. It deals with diverse issues and helps groups to achieve their aims and objectives. Bringing Tenant Management organisations to Corby. Raising awareness to TAROE's proposed Tenants Charter and National Campaign to save council housing.
Today there are several very active and successful groups throughout the town who are always ready to welcome new members. FORTAC is made up of representatives from each of these groups who meet regularly to discuss what is happening on each estate and is available to help any area in the town to start their own group.
The Federation has built up a network of contacts with organisations, both locally and nationally. We are members of the Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS) and Tenants and Residents Organisations of England (TAROE) and the council run Health and Welfare Working Party.
There are 8 tenants and residents associations in the federation who need support and help with a variety of issues. The federation now has financial support from the Council on an annual basis.
FORTAC has a service level agreement with Corby Borough Council that sets out the role that both will play in the future of Corby.
Structure of Federation
A General Committee manages FORTAC. A Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer are elected at the Annual General meeting for a one year term of office. The AGM is held in May of each year.
The General Committee meets not less than eight times each year. Meetings are open to members from each association.
Sub committees are formed to meet between meetings to implement the decisions of the General Committee.
All member associations agree to abide by the recognition criteria for Tenants and Residents Associations. Each association must:
1. Have a Constitution approved by FORTAC and Corby Borough Council.
2. Be run by a Management Committee.
3. Have a commitment to Equal Opportunities.
4. Allow access to information concerning its business and its financial standing to be available to its
members and Corby Borough Council.
5. Produce an annual financial statement for FORTAC and Corby Borough Council.
6. Work for the benefit of all residents within its area.
7. Not duplicate activities already carried out by other organisations in its area.
These are the current FORTAC representatives:
Chairperson - Lynn Johnston
Vice Chairperson - Ernie Humphreys
Secretary - Kevin Watt
Treasurer - Thea Lumbers
Mission Statement
FORTAC is a single non political body representing tenants and residents groups in the borough of Corby.
We deal with diverse issues and help local groups to achieve their aims.
We provide advice and support to individual tenants and residents.
We are a forum for consultation and negotiation with Corby Borough Council.
We have a network of contacts both locally and nationally.
We will work hard to promote the BEST interest of the people of Corby.
Where are we now ?
We now have a role in the Best Value work, not only at ground level but also on the overseeing panel.
FORTAC was instrumental in putting together Corby's Tenant Compact along with council workers, councillors and tenant advisors. Ours is not only tenants but residents and leaseholders, as we have covered all aspects of Corby life like, anti-social behaviour, environmental issues, empty homes, leaseholders etc. We feel that the tenant compact makes possibly the biggest difference to the way Corby is run and we are happy to be part of it. We are, as tenants, moving towards proper involvement in the work of the council rather than just consultation or comments, and that is part of the government's citizen and civic pride agenda.
Some of the strengths of the Federation are:
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Representing 8 Tenants and Residents Associations
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Turning small voices into large voices
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The enthusiasm and dedication of the tenants and residents who are involved in the Federation
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The knowledge, skills and information that exists amoung our members
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Recognition of Corby Borough Council
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Membership of TPAS and TAROE
Objectives
To promote the aims of the voluntary Federation and gain recognition from residents, councillors, council staff and business in Corby by personal contact, newsletter, advertising and promotional material.
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To receive quality training to enable us to deliver a responsible service to any individual or organisation.
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To challenge and influence decision making to improve the quality of life for all in the borough.
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To listen to the communities needs and to campaign locally and nationally.
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To identify and recognise the needs of a diverse community.
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To pool resources, skills and information to satisfy the needs and further the knowledge of the tenants and residents of Corby.
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To support existing Tenants and Residents Associations and promote the formation of new ones.
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To be committed to fairness and equality in providing opportunites to tenants and residents.
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To enhance the development of community spirit in the borough.