A SEARCH for volunteers has been launched by Waverley Borough Council as it begins its preparations for the proposed transference of its housing stock to a new housing association. The council needs volunteers to serve as independent board members on the shadow housing board of the new housing association for the Waverley area. The shadow board is in preparation for the possible transfer of the ownership and management of Waverley's 5,200 homes following a ballot later this year. The board will manage the new housing association and five tenants and five councillors have already been appointed. In preparation for the council's stock transfer bid, the board will play a pivotal role in developing the policies, strategies and business plan for the Waverley-created housing association. In order to deliver this effectively, Waverley is now looking for five local professional people, who are prepared to work on a voluntary basis and who can bring their skills, expertise and enthusiasm to the shadow board. Interested applicants need to have experience at a professional level in at least one of the following fields: housing management, property development and improvement, finance, human resources, social care and support, and law. The five independent members will join the other 10 people appointed. In December, tenants elected five council tenants to represent them, while Waverley Borough Council nominated five councillors. David January, Waverley's director of housing, said: "We are looking for individuals living within the local community who are able to offer specialist skills and experience to the board. "Taking on the responsibility of a voluntary independent board member will provide an exciting and unique opportunity to positively influence the quality of life of Waverley's 5,200 tenants and leaseholders." The closing date for applications is February 25, 2005. • For an information pack and an application form, contact the assistant director of housing, John Swanton on 01483 523375.
