John Elkins, 63, is a resident in Basildon who’s not in the best of health. It’s an everyday struggle for him to get around. He’s still a determined character who works hard to improve your quality of life, by providing a “resident voice” at all levels within Swan.

John is Chair of the Regional Committee for Essex and also chairs the Essex Residents Consultative Committee.

“These roles are voluntary, so you have to be fairly self-motivated to participate. It certainly provides an interest in life that I otherwise wouldn't have.

My health isn’t what it was. I've recently had open-heart surgery, but three months on I was keen to get involved again. Diabetes affects my legs, so I struggle to get around. I even need help putting my shoes and socks on. At 63, I didn't expect that!

It takes a huge effort to get out the house, but I’m stubborn and have to keep going. At the end of the day, I can sit in my chair and get old, or do something to make a difference. This gets me through.

I give my time and whatever personal and business skills I have. I strongly believe in caring for people, who in some cases are far less fortunate than you or I.

Listening to people is a skill and I use that skill to take the views of residents back to Swan, who can make more informed decisions.

I have responsibility in all my voluntary roles. I’m making decisions on the strategy of the organisation, but also look closely at resident services. Although I joined Swan at the beginning for personal satisfaction, I now represent the views of all of Swan’s Essex residents — a responsibility which I take very seriously.”

John and wife, Julie, have been living in their home for 25 years and have been our residents since we formed. Over the years they have had a variety of landlords, but believe Swan has delivered the best service.

John says

The Government want people to get involved in the ‘Big Society’. Swan have been doing this for years.

They empower residents to develop better services, a ‘Decent Homes Standard’ that exceeds expectation and an approach, that keeps residents at the heart of everything they do. They don’t just build social houses, they build homes and communities where people want to live.

If you would like to get involved in what we do, or in your community, call our Resident Involvement and Community Development Team on 01277 844242.