THE largest housing association in Inverclyde is to to look at installing hand sanitiser systems at its high-rise blocks.

Bosses at River Clyde Homes say that they will carry out a risk assessment on whether there is a need for supplies to be installed at entrances to the busy buildings.

The move comes in response to a complaint from a resident in Rowan Court in Port Glasgow, who contacted the Tele claiming that RCH bosses were refusing to install them there and at sister blocks Heather and Thistle, pictured, despite requests from tenants.

Stevie McLachlan, head of customer experience at River Clyde Homes, said: “During the coronavirus pandemic, our community caretakers have continued to deliver essential services related to fire safety and public health for residents of our multi-storey blocks.

"This includes enhanced, frequent daily cleaning focusing on ‘high touch’ surfaces such as lifts and communal areas which are in regular use, following all health and safety guidelines as they carry out their duties."

Housing bosses say their main priority is to keep tenants, their families and staff safe.

Mr McLachlan said: "Our aim is to ensure all tenants and their families remain safe, whilst safeguarding the wellbeing and welfare of our staff.

"There has been no great demand for hand sanitisers to be installed in our blocks.

"However we will carry out a risk assessment for the need for this to ensure our actions are in line with other housing associations in Scotland."

The housing association has 13 high rise blocks across the district.

All of them have been refurbished and many are designated for specific groups within the Inverclyde community.

Mr McLachlan said: “I would encourage residents to stay informed about the latest Scottish Government advice.

"This will help to minimise the risk of spreading the virus.

“I would urge any customer who needs help or advice, to contact us on 0800 013 2196.”