There is no age limit for training

Partners have an annual training programme budget for Resident forum members and their staff. Today, along with other members, attended a mini course on Housing Law. Was really intensive but so interesting. Loads of questions from everybody - Partners staff themselves all felt it was very useful job wise. Least there is a better understanding all round as to why some procedures as bureaucratic as they might be under current legislation, are implemented a certain way.

One section that was a real eye opener: Most people seem to be under the misconception that residents are either Secure or Assured tenancy. There are actually different types of tenancies ranging from a Starter tenancy to a Demoted tenancy.

The one all the course participants were naturally most interested in was a demoted tenancy. This was introduced by the Anti Social act of 2003 whereby social housing landlords can take away a secure tenancy.

I'm quite sure the next enquiry that is going to come up is how many demoted residencies Islington Borough has on their books.

Can honestly say it kept the old grey brain cells alert. Told by some of the staff afterwards I made them laugh - one has to put a bit of humour into the whole thing to lighten the tense atmosphere in the room.

We are apparently going to receive certificates. To add them to my collection is just to show I've not as yet lost my marbles but for younger people they are good to add to their CV's.

Feedback from other forum members fantastic - can I arrange other courses. Well I don't arrange anything I just make suggestions to management as to the course that members might be interested in.

It has however encouraged me to attend one of the three day courses held at Trafford Hall near Chester - am booked with another member on the next Inspectors course. Have been a bit reluctant in the past to travel so far on my own. Will be interested to to visit somewhere I've not been to for about 40 years - my companion says he doesn't mind trekking round Chester so I can find a fridge magnet. Started a collection some years ago of all the places I've visited in UK. Well he offered - he apparently also thinks I'm a lively soul. Wonder it he will feel the same after a few days in my company.....