I know that when a member of the public comes to me with a complaint about flytipping or a road that is in need of repair, they simply want the best for their neighbourhood.

Starting with Bishopton last week and attending the ones in my own area for a number of years, I have initiated a timetable of visiting community councils to hear first-hand about the different issues being discussed in our towns and villages.

What has come through loud and clear is the pride people have in their communities and that there is a desire at a local level to have more say and control over the changes and developments being made.

That’s why we have been reviewing community level governance in Renfrewshire, to ensure it reflects the needs of our communities.

Hundreds of people attended drop-in sessions and events on this very topic and the feedback is now being carefully considered.

Local decision-making should be a positive, participative process and a report will be brought forward this summer with the next steps towards ensuring everyone can have their say.

Another way we are supporting local communities is through significant funding to support organisations that wish to transfer council land or assets in their area into community ownership.

Just last month, a section of the Community Empowerment Act relating to allotments came into force.

Allotments have a long history in Renfrewshire and, with the rise of fresh food and healthy eating, they are enjoying a revival.

The legislation ensures councils promote and protect these popular community facilities – and funds are in place to help develop more where there is unmet demand.

We know that the council processes can seem complex and it can be difficult to know who to turn to for help. That’s why we’re piloting a new approach with a single point of contact on hand to facilitate the different community requests we receive.

From directing people to advice or helping with support to access funding, we’re here to help. I would encourage community groups to consider the things that matter most in their neighbourhoods and find out more about the support the council can offer.

Meanwhile, there has been good news for those who care about early years’ childcare and affordable housing.

I am delighted that Scottish Government announcements in recent weeks will bring further significant investment into Renfrewshire.

First came the news of further funding to support the expansion of early learning and childcare services, which will ensure we are best placed to deliver on the national policy of 1,140 hours of free childcare and give our youngsters the best start in life.

And then came confirmation of £14.7million allocated to Renfrewshire this year to build affordable housing.

This will help towards our aim to complete 1,000 new affordable homes in the five years to 2021.

Our SNP council administration has been working very closely with our Scottish Government colleagues to get the best deal for the people of Renfrewshire and this close relationship is paying off.