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From the frontline – tenancy safeguarding and operations manager Susan Black
Susan Black, tenancy safeguarding and operations manager at Community Gateway, talks vulnerable tenants, working together to move forward and her Christmas karaoke song of choice
Tell us about your job.
My role as a tenancy safeguarding officer means I deal with vulnerable tenants of all ages, covering a broad spectrum of issues. I would say that on average I see anywhere between 20 and 40 new referrals every month.
How did you get into housing?
A little by accident! Following the birth of my daughter, I took a temporary position as a regional housing manager’s secretary, and I guess you could say the rest is history. I have to admit, I didn’t really even know what social housing was when I began, but of course I’ve come to see the vital role it plays in our communities.
What is the best part of your job?
Probably the satisfaction I get from helping individuals and families become empowered in their lives. We all experience difficult times, and it can be easy to believe there is no help out there.
My position in the team is kind of unique in regards to the role I play, as I am the only tenancy safeguarding officer.
However, I take great pride in seeing my colleagues work tirelessly every day to show people there is always a way out. Helping people take back control of their lives is one of the most important and powerful things we can do.
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What is the worst part?
I work in the domestic abuse arena, and seeing what people are capable of really does sadden me at times. Domestic abuse is not only traumatic for the survivor, but it also affects the whole family unit. In particular, it is now being recognised just how much of an impact domestic abuse is having on children.
What would your superpower be?
I think it would have to be the vital power of turning water into wine!
If you could be prime minister for the day, what would you do?
I don’t want to be too political, so I’ll just say everyone would be best advised to run for cover! On a serious note, I feel that everyone working together is the only way we can all move forward, and that the person at the top is best placed to ensure this happens.
What’s the most private thing you’d be willing to admit to your colleagues?
I have no secrets from my colleagues, except maybe that I always sing the same song at karaoke: Last Christmas by Wham! Regardless of the time of the year, this is always the song that I pick! I’d like to say all the practice has paid off, but…
