Residents Advisor Role
Ground Investigation and Options Appraisal - 2004-2006
Service Definition
Temple have a proven track record in providing advice and support to residents who live on land that is undergoing investigation or has been found to be contaminated.
Service Requirements
Managing potential conflict around environmental risk issues requires attention not only to the content of risk information but also to what are the appropriate procedures at the relevant stages in the decision-making process for contaminated land. At the same time, the choice of these procedures should be based upon sound criteria [SNIFFER Report 1999], notably:
- the need for empowerment of a disenchanted public
- access and ability to challenge information
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- transparency to create trust in the regulatory role
- openness to enhance the legitimacy of the overall process in the public mind
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Risk communication also, therefore, needs to address the strategic issues in order to gain public and stakeholder confidence. It is important that risk communication for site related issues is flexible in terms of procedures and must have regard to the context and history around particular contaminated site problems.
We appreciate that tenants and owners have a lot at stake in these circumstances and our primary goal is to become a trusted advisor. We provide a dedicated and personal service of housing and environmental professionals that can ‘hit the ground running’ and, in particular:
- rapidly assimilate information of any previous and planned work
- provide a focal point for community engagement by talking to people on their own terms and responding to their concerns
- communicate the aspirations and concerns of residents to decision makers
- provide residents with the right tools and advice so that they feel empowered
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- form an understanding of the implications for residents for any planned work, and challenge information or recommendations as relevant
- stimulate discussion about their aspirations and explore options that may realise these
- ensure openness and transparency in the process
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On previous projects we have worked closely with tenants and owners who have formed Residents Liaison Groups or Focus Groups. Residents trust us to provide them with accurate information and sound impartial advice on a very broad range of topics related to contaminated land. We have:
- chaired and presented at meetings
- staffed a drop-in centre
- managed and facilitated liaison with the press
- facilitated visits to other similarly contaminated sites (so that residents have the opportunity to discuss concerns directly with others who have been in a similar situation and learn from their experiences).
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- produced informative newsletters
- assisted residents via a dedicated freephone advice line
- facilitated and managed discrete events e.g. history groups, stakeholder workshops, health awareness days, etc.
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In the trusted advisor role, we generally find that residents are more forthcoming over their genuine grievances and aspirations then would otherwise be the case. Clients are advised of residents’ requirements, concerns and aspirations. That knowledge and the role we play within the client’s team ensures that residents play as full a role as possible in future actions e.g. remedial options.
The Council also benefits from the Independent Resident Advisor Role; it releases them from a significant time burden in terms of regular communication and generally leads to more meaningful dialogue over key issues. In our experience, it also engenders a better and more productive working relationship.
Service Users
Generally this service is needed by developers, owners or managers of residential property.
Charging Structure
Temple’s rates are very competitive and we offer this service on a time and expenses basis with agreed budget ceilings. Previous contracts have varied in size from under £10,000 to over £100,000 depending on the level of complexity involved, the size of the site and the stage of the contaminated land process.
Contacts
If you require further details or have any questions about our services please contact us on 0207 394 3700 or enquiries@templegroup.co.uk
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