Working together to improve our neighbourhood and the lives of BETRA's residents
About us
BETRA, our Tenant Management Organisation (TMO), was formed in April 2004. We were part of a new scheme from the Government, whose aim was to give back some power to residents on estates.
We are run by a small, voluntary board consisting of local residents, supported by the estate manager, Nicola. A local Council representative also attends our monthly meetings. These board meetings usually take place at the BETRA office. Once a year we hold an annual general meeting.
Our estate
The Barnstaple Estate is situated in Harold Hill in the London Borough of Havering, on the outskirts of north east London.
Our estate is made up of 13 Houses all of which are three stories high. The houses are listed below:
Accrington House / Alcester House / Ampthill House / Angmering House
Cardigan House / Devizes House / Kirkham House / Oundle House
Radstock House / Southsea House / Stroud House / Thornbury House / Upton House
Nicola, Estate Manager
"Management of the Barnstaple Estate is a serious business. BETRA has some 216 properties on the estate. But these are more than just properties, these our people’s homes, and this estate is our community. Working closely with our Board and Havering Council, we strive to make a difference every day."
Our staff
Nicola Estate Manager
Hayley Housing Officer
Mark Senior Caretaking and Repairs Maintenance Officer
Steven Caretaking and Repairs Maintenance Officer
Amy Caretaking and Repairs Maintenance Officer
Naomi Bookkeeper
Left - Amy, our newest recruit.
Events
Over the years BETRA has organised and supported all kinds of events and initiatives here on the Estate and in the neighbourhood. These have included special family fun days on our green, seasonal events for children, and support services and opportunities for young people. We advertise them here and in our newsletter.
Volunteer Opportunities
... But those events don't organise themselves. We depend on the active participation of residents for these things to happen.
Residents can become involved by joining our Board or by supporting our work in other ways such as helping to organise social events or helping in the office. You can volunteer as much time as suits you - an hour or two a week or more, depending on your other commitments.
Please visit the BETRA office for a chat with Nicola if you think you might like to get involved. We'd love to see you - the kettle's always on!
Next meeting of the BETRA Board:
TBC, at the BETRA office