Cestria Reference Group

Why not join the Cestria Reference Group!

Cestria Reference Group, is the main consultation body for our Association, and is open to all tenants and leaseholders to join. We meet on the last Thursday of every month (subject to change) either at our Bowes Office or at various venues around the Chester-le-Street area. The meetings are usually held between 2pm and 4pm with a full and busy programme.

The group gives their views to assist Cestria in improving their services and to develop and enhance new services. The meetings are always varied and interesting covering a wide range of topics, and the debates can prove lively! The agenda for each meeting is set with the assistance of our tenants and as such relevant and current topics are always up for discussion.

The group is over 120 strong, although not everyone attends the meetings. For those who do not get to the events, a feedback report is produced after every meeting, giving an overview of all the topics discussed. This report is sent out to all members within 10 working days of the meeting, and is also published on this website.

The average attendance at each meeting is 35-40 members together with staff from Cestria.

We can provide transport for tenants who do not have their own and for those that do, we will reimburse fuel costs for using their own cars. We will also pay for childminding and care expenses (which must be from a registered child minder or care agency) if we are provided with a receipt. Light refreshments are provided at every meeting.

For those who require it, we can offer extra assistance if you have mobility issues. Also at every meeting we provide hearing loops for those who have hearing difficulties.

If you would like to get involved in the Reference Group, or for more information please call Cestria Community Engagement Team on 0191 3851900 or e-mail tenantinvolvement@cestria.org