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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
26 July 2010
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£5M FOR BETTER SALFORD HOMES IS SAFE
26 July 2010
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Work to improve more than 700 homes in Salford over the next year is still on track after a £5m decent homes grant from the government has been confirmed.
Following a review of all public spending plans, the Homes and Communities Agency has given the go ahead to release £5m to Salford for Decent Homes investment.
The grant will cover improvement work in 2010/11.
Salford was awarded access to Labour's government decent homes funding back in April when its housing management company, Salix Homes achieved a two star rating in its Audit Commission inspection.
Its services were rated as 'good' with 'excellent prospects'. Throughout 2010/11 residents will see a total of £9m spent on improvement to homes with the council investing £4m of this towards Decent Homes.
Salford's Decent Homes programme has been developed in close consultation with residents to ensure that investment is targeted initially in areas where it is most needed.
Over the coming months, work will start on homes in Broughton, Irwell Riverside and Ordsall with this year's investment targeted on the following estates:
Ordsall Lane
Broadway
Lissadel Street
London Street
Racecourse
Regent Park
Spike Island
Duchy
Islington estate
The government's Decent Homes standard requires properties to be warm and weatherproof with reasonably modern facilities.
Work to homes will include kitchen and bathroom refurbishments, double-glazed windows, new doors, central heating and wall and loft insulations. Further funding from the HCA is expected to be announced in stages.
Leader of Salford City Council, Councillor John Merry said: "I am pleased that the government has been able to confirm the additional decent homes funding for 2010/11 and I hope that the new Minsiter for Housing, the Rt Hon Grant Shapps, will soon be able to confirm that the balance of additional decent homes funding, which amounts to some £63 million, will also be made available."
The council's lead member for housing, Councillor Peter Connor added: "There are lots of exciting things happening with housing in Salford and I'm hoping that the Minister will be able to find time to come and talk with us so that we can share ideas about housing futures."
Peter Styche, chair of Salix Homes said: "This is good news for our customers and means we can now make a start in bringing all the homes we manage in central Salford up to the Decent Homes standard.
"We will shortly be contacting those customers who will benefit from works to their home this year to finalise arrangements and agree when the improvement works will commence."
Deborah McLaughlin, North West director of the Homes and Communities Agency said: "It's great that we have been able to confirm this investment for Salford. I am sure that these vital improvements will make a real difference to the lives of many local people."
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RBH NAMED AS RUNNER-UP AT PRESTIGIOUS AWARD CEREMONY
26 July 2010
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Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) is celebrating after being named the runner up of a national award by the National Federation of ALMOs (NFA), whose 69 member organisations oversee more than one million council owned properties across England.
The winners and runners up of the 2010 NFA Awards were announced at a ceremony at the Midland Hotel, Manchester.
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RBH’s Prison! Me!! No Way!!! project was named runner up in the Most Effective Partnership Project category sponsored by Morrison Facilities Services. The project is one part of RBH’s Communities First programme which aims to promote and recognise positive behaviour by individuals and groups in communities.
Picture: (left to right) Ruth Sillence, RBH Communities First Co-ordinator; Janet Street-Porter; Sue Kershaw, RBH Senior Policy and Performance Officer.
RBH Chief Executive Gareth Swarbrick said: “We are delighted to have received this national recognition for the work we are carrying out, especially given the competition from other high performing ALMOs in this category. I’d like to thank the RBH staff involved in the project and the partner organisations we work with for making it such a success.”
Representatives from the 20 short-listed ALMOs (Arms Length Management Organisations) across the country gathered for the award ceremony, part of the NFA’s annual two day conference and AGM. During the awards evening, hosted by Janet Street-Porter, the audience of 350 were entertained by a performance from the Lower Falinge based African drumming group NESTAC and films of all the shortlisted projects and individuals.
RBH commissioned five “Prison! Me! No Way!!” crime and safety awareness days from the No Way Trust. The events were held in four upper schools in October and November 2009 in areas where there are ‘hot spots’ of anti social-behaviour.
The aims were to: reduce offending by showing young people in a practical way, the consequences of crime and anti social behaviour, prevent young people becoming offenders and reduce fear caused by crime and anti-social behaviour. Part of the event involved uniformed officers engaging with the youngsters and encouraging them to value their freedom by highlighting the harsh realities of prison life.
The NFA Awards Most Effective Partnership category recognises effective projects brought about by well managed relationships across the public, private and voluntary sectors. The awards were judged by an independent panel; Alison Inman, Chair of the National Federation of ALMOs; Michael Gelling, Chairman of the National Tenant Voice; and Roger Jarman, Head of Housing at the Audit Commission.
Alison Inman said: “The NFA Awards always command a high standard of entry and this year has been no exception. The creativity, pro-activity and innovation shown by these individuals and teams and, above all, their steadfast commitment to housing and local communities should act as a benchmark for the entire ALMO movement.”
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HOME RETAINS ‘EXCELLENT’ CREDIT RATING
26 July 2010
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Home Group Ltd has retained its A+ credit rating.
The Group was given an A+ rating by Standard and Poor's, who carry out independent credit rating assessments. Home's rating compares favourably to many High Street brands, equalling the rating given to Coca-Cola. Tesco has an A- rating.
Home Chairman Rod Bennion said: "We are very pleased to have this vote of confidence in what could be interpreted as challenging market conditions for all public and third sector organisations.
"We believe it reflects the confidence held in us that we will be able to chart a clear course through what may become turbulent waters.
"We will do so against a background of sound financial management, strong financial planning and a clear business plan that will see significant business growth over the coming five years."
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CITY WEST SIGNS UP TO TOWER BLOCK SCHEME
26 July 2010
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Fire safety has been stepped up in high rise blocks in Salford as City West Housing Trust improves signage in its flats to help fire fighters in emergencies.
Each of the City West’s 12 high rises has been fitted with a new sign which sets out details of the block’s design to help fire fighters swiftly gauge the layout if called out to an emergency.
The signs have been fitted to the external walls, next to the main entrances of the blocks. The information on the laminated signs is very visual and provides quick reference information for responding emergency crews.
The signs include details of the number of floors, the layout of homes within the block and where hydrants are located. They also indicate the position of any fixed fire fighting installations.
Geoff Akroyd, Salford Borough Commander for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Fire fighters in Salford are trained and equipped to deal with incidents in high rise buildings and are familiar with the layout of City West Housing Trust’s high rise blocks in their station area.
“However, it may not always be the local crews who are first in attendance at an incident in a tower block and they may, therefore, be less familiar with the layout so the plates could provide the vital information to assist getting fire fighters and their equipment to where they are required.”
Colette McKune, Director of Asset Management of City West Housing Trust, said: “The Trust recognises how valuable the information on these signs can be to fire fighters in an emergency. We are keen to maximise safety for our high rise tenants.”
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HOUSING ORGANISATIONS SHOW SOME ‘PRIDE’
26 July 2010
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Four housing associations are joining together to support Liverpool Pride and prove their commitment to equality and diversity.
Knowsley Housing Trust (KHT), Liverpool Mutual Housing, South Liverpool Housing Group and Riverside are proudly working together to prepare a float for the event where the theme will be ‘Rainbow Circus’.
The float will be designed and constructed by Hallangen Art who created the Liverpool-wide charity art project Mankey Monkey.
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Helen Lacey, KHT’s Equality and Diversity Officer, said: “Our LGB (lesbian, gay and bisexual) staff groups wanted to have a presence at the first Liverpool Pride.
“We have a strong stance on equality and diversity so we felt we had a duty to be involved so that we could send a strong visual message to our customers, the community and other housing organisations.”
Picture: Artists impression of what the completed float will look like. The 10 ft high character combines a house with a big top and balloons along the circus theme.
Lyn Bowker, LMH’s Customer Equalities Manager, added: “We all wanted to take this opportunity to participate and to raise awareness to staff and customers that housing organisations across the region are committed to equality and diversity.”
Tony Russell, Director of Corporate Services at South Liverpool Housing said: “SLH are delighted to be supporting the first Liverpool Pride Festival in Merseyside. We strive to be an equal opportunities employer and we value diversity - whoever you are, you will be valued and respected."
Jon Farrell, Secretary of Riverside’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender staff group, said: “Liverpool Pride is a great opportunity to engage, involve and empower members of the LGBT communities and as such we are really proud to be a part of it.
“In supporting the event, we hope to improve relations by fostering greater knowledge, understanding and acceptance of LGBT communities.”
Pride organisers have pulled out the stops for their first parade in the city and have signed up a wealth of talent to perform for the crowds.
Topping the bill is Liverpool legend Ian McNabb, once the lead singer with the Icicle Works.
Also appearing are Cocabelle, the BBC’s Last Choir Standing stars The Sense Of Sound, singer-songwriters Connie Lush, Peach, Oog, Hannah Trigwell, Will Maitland, the Benjamin Stead Trio, Stealing Sheep, Jo Bywater & The Waves and the Lonesome Georginas.
For further details about the event – which is on August 7 – log on to liverpoolpride.co.uk
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PHOTO CHALLENGE FOR WREXHAM’S HOMELESS YOUNG PEOPLE
26 July 2010
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A group of Wrexham young people who have experienced, or who have been at risk of being homeless, have been taking a fresh look at the world around them in a photo challenge competition.
The residents from The Foyer, Hafan and Hurst Newton Supported Living schemes in the area, managed by Clwyd Alyn Housing Association, part of the Pennaf Housing Group, took part in the challenge organised by In2Change, a Wrexham Youth Service project, focussing on drug and alcohol awareness.
Under the challenge residents from each of the three schemes formed teams and each member was issued with an instant disposable camera with the task of finding images on a number of themes encouraging them to take a fresh look at themselves and the world around them.
After an independent panel of judges voted for their favourite images the winning team were awarded a fun day out if their choice.
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Picture: Ade Harvey Life Skills Coordinator (Wrexham Projects); Katrina Williams, Kayleigh Williams, Justin Hopkins, Vicky White, Kylie Downward, Lyndsey Phillips and Elise Wood from In2Change.
Hurst Newton were the winners and chose to go for a day out at Alton Towers in the Autumn, to avoid all the queues in the school holidays and the competition organisers from In2Change were so impressed by the enthusiasm and creativity of all of those taking part that they decided to issue an extra prize - allowing all taking part to join the Hurst Newton winners as guests on their day out.
Ade Harvey, Life Skills Coordinator for Clwyd Alyn Housing Association said: “The photo challenge was a great way of helping residents to challenge stereotypes and look at new ways of seeing the world around them.”
In2Change Youth Worker, Elise Wood added: “There was some terrific creativity, and the themes including ‘Wales’, ‘Broken’ and ‘What Makes me Happy,’ the images that were taken also provided a great learning opportunity to take a fresh look at issues facing the young people.”
In2Change is a multi-agency team within the Local Authority Youth Service that provides education and harm reduction information about drug and alcohol misuse and supports those who may have experienced difficulties in this area.
Donna Dickenson, Interim Chief Prevention and Inclusion Officer said: “This project shows that when agencies work together, the benefits for young people and the community are excellent. The standard of work produced was of a high quality and provided everyone involved with a real insight into how young people perceive their environment.”
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FLEETWOOD YOUNGSTER SECURES FLAGSHIP APPRENTICESHIP
26 July 2010
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A Fleetwood Sports College student has landed a fantastic opportunity to start a 3 year paid painting and decorating apprenticeship.
Students from Fleetwood Sports College were invited to apply for the apprenticeship, which is the first of its kind in the Fleetwood area, with successful applicants being invited for interviews. Peter Bidle, aged 16 was selected as the most successful candidate of 5 applicants.
Starting today, Peter will undergo training on all areas of the painting and decorating trade whilst gaining vital experience by working on site with Bagnalls, one of the countries leading specialist painting and decorating companies.
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Picture: (L-R) Shaun MacNeill – Fleetwood Sports College, Angie Welch – Regenda Group, Peter Bidle – Apprentice, Mike Worrall – Bagnalls Branch Manager.
The apprenticeship scheme has been spearheaded by the Regenda Group, one of the North West’s largest independent housing and regeneration organisations, who recognised the lack of local apprenticeship opportunities for young people in the area.
Working in partnership with Fleetwood Sports College and Bagnalls, Regenda hopes that other local businesses will follow suit by offering apprenticeship opportunities to young people; helping them to realise their potential, improve employability and positively impact the community.
Angie Welch, Project Manager at Regenda Group (Wyre branch) and member of the recruitment panel said: “Regenda have supported the school on a number of levels and encouraging a student to seek employment with Bagnalls is an ideal opportunity to further demonstrate our commitment to the local community.”
Peter Bidle, the successful candidate added: “I am really pleased to have been successful. I am looking forward to working for Bagnalls and learning new skills. I know I have some hard work ahead of me, on site and in college, in order to achieve my NVQ level 3 in painting.”
As well as doing a day release course at Blackpool and Fylde College, Bispham - Peter will also spend sometime at Bagnalls Training Academy in Doncaster. The training academy is a bespoke facility established in 2004 to further develop the skills of all the company’s apprentices as well as enhance the skills of their Craftsmen painters. By the end of his 3 years, Peter would have gained an NVQ level 2 or 3 and will be taken on at Bagnalls as a fully qualified trade’s person.
Community and Attendance Manager at the Sports College, Shaun MacNeill said: “We are very pleased that through the Regenda Group, Bagnalls has been able to offer this apprenticeship to one of our students The scheme builds on our ethos of ‘success for all through personal best’.”
It is anticipated that this will be the first of many such apprenticeship schemes in Fleetwood in the future.
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TAKE THAT STAR LENDS SUPPORT TO WYTHENSHAWE’S GOT TALENT
26 July 2010
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Wythenshawe residents are being given chance to parade their skills and talents in a special variety show with the launch of Parkway Green Housing Trust and Willow Park Housing Trust’s Wythenshawe’s Got Talent 2010 event.
Lending his support to the event is Take That star Jason Orange. Having been raised in Wythenshawe and having first-hand experience of how talent can be discovered to kick-start a successful entertainment career, Jason is now encouraging residents of all ages in the area to register and get involved.
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Jason Orange said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for people from my home town to showcase their talents and perhaps go on and have careers in the entertainment business.
“Knowing Wythenshawe and the people who live there, I’m sure it will be a great event and I’d encourage everyone to get involved and most importantly, really enjoy it.”
Picture: Jason Orange is supporting this year’s Wythenshawe’s Got Talent Variety Show.
Now in its third year, the variety show is open to people of all ages who live or work in areas with M22 or M23 postcodes and aims to build on last year’s success when over 1,000 people took part.
Wythenshawe’s Got Talent has played an important role in bringing the Wythenshawe community together and giving residents an opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Joe Doherty, Chief Executive at Willow Park Housing Trust, said: “We are delighted to support the Wythenshawe’s Got Talent Variety Show.
“The event is a fantastic opportunity for the Wythenshawe community to showcase and celebrate local talent.
“It also provides contestants of all ages and abilities the chance to broaden their horizons and realise their true potential, something which creates a tremendous ‘feel good’ factor for the whole Wythenshawe community and beyond.”
Parkway Green Housing Trust’s Chief Executive, Nigel Wilson, added: “It is fantastic that a star as big as Jason Orange is willing to lend his support to the local community and we hope he inspires residents of all ages and abilities to take part.
“Events like Wythenshawe’s Got Talent play a huge role in bringing communities closer together and I’m really looking forward to seeing the talent we have and hopefully we’ll unearth performers who may go on to be the next big stars from the area.”
The closing date for applications is the 24th September with auditions being held on the 9th October at Wythenshawe Forum.
On the 11th October, the 15 successful acts chosen to perform in the grand final on November the 6th will be notified.
Application forms and more details are available online at www.wythenshawesgottalent.co.uk.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
26 July 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20.
North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31.
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
TENDERS
St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19.
Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6.
Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19.
Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17.
To reach the best candidates in the social housing sector, advertise your top jobs in one of our eight regional newsletters or go national to over 40,000 readers. For more information, call Hucksters on 01892 784804.
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IMPORTANT – GUARANTEE YOUR CONTINUED HOUSING NEWS SERVICE
26 July 2010
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Housing News is currently in the process of updating its email subscriber list and is removing a number of ‘bouncebacks’.
These are email addresses that are faulty, no longer exist, or where the person has left the company. However, though many of these need to be removed, there might be some genuine addresses that are removed by mistake.
This will be happening over the coming week, so if your service stops, please let us know by emailing us at: news@housingnews.co.uk stating which regional edition you have stopped receiving.
Also, to make sure you receive a continued, unbroken service, if you do not subscribe directly to the newsletter (e.g. if someone in your organisation forwards the newsletters to you), please sign up now by contacting the same address.
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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
27 July 2010
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NWDA - FULL CUTS REVEALED
27 July 2010
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The North West Development Agency (NWDA) has detailed more than 100 projects - from landmark development schemes to sporting programmes - that will lose out on possible funding as a result of the Government's austerity measures, reports The Business Desk.
The £220m Talbot Gateway plan in Blackpool and a major Sportcity scheme in East Manchester, along with the National Football Museum's move to Urbis are among projects that were expecting to secure funding support.
It has also published a list of 30 'partner agencies' - including urban regeneration companies like Central Salford and Liverpool Vision, trade bodies, and support organisations such as inward investment body MIDAS - that will not receive financial support after next April.
The agency has been told to find savings of £52m - 18% of its £292m annual budget - as part of the Government's planned £272m savings across all the regional development agencies. For many development projects such as Talbot Gateway, the NWDA backing was essential to lever in further funding from Europe.
NWDA chief executive Steven Broomhead, said: "We are facing a challenging situation as we have to save £52m from this year’s NWDA budget. We have made a start by cutting non-contracted projects and reducing our own administration budget but we now need to re-examine all existing projects and programmes to identify where further savings can be made.
"We are now involved in very careful and sensitive discussions with our partners about this. We will use all available flexibility to try to meet these challenging reductions but the reality is that this is a substantial reduction to our in-year budget and there is bound to be an economic impact on the partners, businesses and communities with whom we work."
He added: "In addition, the size of the cuts means that we have little flexibility in our future budgets and the agency will not be able to make any new investments or renew partner contracts before our dissolution in April 2012. The new Regional Growth Fund announced by Government will offer opportunities for the private and public sector for potential new projects from April 2011 onwards."
A full list of the organisations and the 100 projects affected is available by clicking here.
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STOCKPORT HOMES BUILDS HOMES FOR THE FUTURE
27 July 2010
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With the help of £1.17m investment from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), Stockport Homes is building 18 new homes at the sites of two former sheltered housing schemes.
This follows the success of the new build project at Lantern Close (formerly known as Dorset Avenue) in Brinnington where 17 new properties were built and completed earlier this year.
Mendip Court in Heaton Norris and Marlhill Court in Offerton were demolished in January 2009 as the old fashioned layout of the buildings meant that they were no longer meeting the needs of the residents.
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Picture: (left to right) Chris Munby, Stockport Homes’ Development Officer; Mark Hudson, Director of Technical Services for Stockport Homes; Councillor Helen Foster-Grime and David Proudlove from the Homes and Communities Agency on-site at Mendip Court.
Once completed, Mendip Court will contain: 2 x 2 bedroom wheelchair accessible bungalows, 5 x 2 bedroom houses and 2 x 4 bedroom houses. Marlhill Court will contain: 7 x 3 bedroom houses and 2 x 4 bedroom houses.
Features include private drives and parking spaces, enclosed wheelie bin stores to meet future recycling requirements and additional ground floor WCs.
Councillor Helen Foster-Grime attended the turf cutting event and said of the build projects: “Stockport Homes show their commitment not only to their customers but to the environment too by providing high quality, energy efficient homes for life. These affordable quality homes will really help our aim to strengthen our communities further.”
Stockport Homes is required to meet level three of the code for sustainable homes but by improvements to the building fabric as well as renewable technologies such as photovoltaic panels, a Zenex gas saver and a mechanical ventilation heat recovery system they will actually meet level 4 which is great news for the environment and in turn will reduce the fuel costs for new tenants.
Not only that but all properties have been designed to meet the Lifetime Homes Standards; the model for building accessible and adaptable homes and they achieve Secure by Design; the UK Police flagship initiative supporting the principles of ‘designing out crime’.
Deborah McLaughlin, director for the North West at the HCA, said: “It is great news for Stockport that work on this much needed affordable scheme is now going ahead. The use of innovative technology will make the development environmentally friendly and provide sought after homes for local people.”
The properties are due to be completed and available to rent by February 2011.
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SEFTON GIVES REVISED VIRGINIA STREET SCHEME GETS GO-AHEAD
27 July 2010
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A new major new housing development in Southport is set to go ahead following approval by Sefton Council's planning committee.
Work could now start as soon as July on the former Leaf UK Chewits factory off Virginia Street.
Councillors approved revised proposals for the scheme which will see 90 new homes built on the now vacant site. This will include 20% as affordable housing after it was accepted any higher figure would currently make the scheme financially unviable.
There will also be a contribution by developer Bellway Homes to fund improvements to the railway bridge off Virginia Street.
Cllr Paul Tweed, chair of Sefton's Planning Committee, said: "Given the current economic conditions this scheme is a welcome development which tackles a vacant site and provides new homes to meet local need. Work is now expected to start in the next few weeks.
“After careful consideration we have also managed to maintain a significant level of affordable housing which will help tackle an identified shortage in the Southport area.”
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HOME BY MERSEYSTRIDE FIRST FOR BIG SOCIETY PROJECT
27 July 2010
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Social enterprise Home by MerseySTRIDE has announced it plans to be at the forefront of the Governments Big Society project in Liverpool.
The social enterprise, on Great Homer Street, Liverpool, has been a major force of employing people furthest away from the job market through the previous Government Future Jobs Fund initiative.
The company which trains people in furniture assembly, recycling of white goods, retail and delivery plans to be at the forefront of the Big Society scheme by rehabilitating ex offenders and providing them with employment contracts.
Managing Director Paul Brown, said: “The Big Society could be a fantastic initiative - we have a passion for social transformation. We solve many social problems, reducing the burden on the State also more importantly helping people to move on in life.
“We want to develop and expand our services here in Liverpool and franchise this model throughout the UK.
“Now through the Big Society, we have genuine hope that we can achieve this. That’s why we are going to be one of the 1st enterprises to submit an application to the Big Society Bank.
“This will enable us to work with even more people and communities and create even greater social change and community transformation.”
At the launch of the Big Society initiative, David Cameron said the Big Society Bank was there for social enterprises to access 'start-up' finance they need to bid for government contracts.
Although no replacement to the Welfare to Work programme the new scheme will allow local people to take over certain Government responsibilities to run them more successfully on a local level.
The success of MerseySTRIDE was highlighted at the conference in Liverpool.
Prime Minister David Cameron said following a recent visit, he was “inspired” by Home by MerseySTRIDE, which was exactly the kind of business the country needed to help ‘broken Britain’.
MerseySTRIDE will now begin the process of applying to win one of the Government contracts and lead the way on the Big Society pilot scheme in Liverpool.
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NEW BLACKBURN HOMES ARE ‘SECURED BY DESIGN’
27 July 2010
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Two Blackburn housing developments have been commended for their crime-busting credentials.
Twin Valley Homes, the largest social housing provider in Blackburn with Darwen, has been awarded the prestigious Secure By Design certificate for both the Livesey Green and North Road developments.
The scheme provides high quality, safe and secure accommodation built to a standard recognised by the Police and focuses on crime prevention at the design and construction stages of homes and commercial premises.
Research shows that Secure By Design can reduce burglary and car crime by 50 per cent and criminal damage by 25 per cent. It supports the Government’s key planning objectives – the creation of secure, quality places where people live and work.
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Picture: (left to right) Twin Valley Homes board member Kath Haworth, David Mallaby, strategic director for neighbourhoods, housing and customer services, Chief Inspector Pete Lawson and Cllr Simon Hugill, executive member for housing at one of the certified properties on the North Road developments.
Twin Valley Homes’ Executive Director Kevin Ruth said: “All of our new build properties are designed with security, as well as energy efficiency, as top priorities.
“Many of our schemes have gained Secure by Design accreditation as we consider it to be vitally important to assure potential residents or buyers that their new home is designed with security at its core.
“That’s why we’re delighted to once again have gained this prestigious accreditation for these two developments.”
Chief Inspector Peter Lawson added: “This is a great opportunity for the Constabulary to work with the local authority from the planning stage, in ensuring that safety and security is highlighted from the start. We are advising on a number of other developments within the borough and anticipate these will also be awarded the Secured by Design certificate soon.”
Councillor Simon Huggill, executive member for housing for Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, was full of praise for the scheme.
He said: “It’s important that housing associations and private developers work with the authorities in addressing security issues at the design and planning stage so that homes can be made as safe and secure as possible.”
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council has received £10m this year from Regenerate Pennine Lancashire (formerly Elevate), to help improve the housing in Pennine Lancashire.
The funding is bringing real benefit to communities and will assist the council in our strategy to raise confidence in our communities and provide safe and secure housing for local people.
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REGENDA HELPS TO GET PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY INTO THE WORKPLACE
27 July 2010
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The Regenda Group’s responsive repairs company M&Y Joinery has helped two disabled recruits into the workplace.
Based in St Helens, the firm has worked in partnership with St Helens Council’s Supported Employment Service to help Emma Fildes and Ryan Dundon into new jobs.
The service supports those unable to secure employment through traditional methods – and who need support to learn to perform their jobs.
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Picture: (left to right) Ryan and Emma with job coaches Janette Baker, Sue Cunliffe, Gill Kelly and M&Y management.
There are nearly seven million disabled people of working age in the UK. But while around 81% of non-disabled people are currently in employment, the figure for disabled people plummets to just 50%.
Both Emma and Ryan were taken on at M&Y in clerical and stores roles. Job coaches Janette Baker and Sue Cunliffe provide Emma and Ryan specialist on-site training to assist them in learning and performing the job but they also offer on-site advice, guidance and support to the M&Y personnel who are managing Emma and Ryan.
Janette said: “It’s a win-win situation for both parties. The job seeker gets a valuable chance to gain employment and our experience shows that disabled employees have a strong work commitment, good punctuality records and low absentee rates.”
Gill Kelly, Director of Contract Services at Regenda added: “We are highly delighted with Emma and Ryan’s progress and contribution to the workplace. Both are enthusiastic and committed M&Y team members. It’s their first ‘proper’ jobs since they left school and we are honoured to be able to give them this opportunity.
“Ryan has expressed a long term goal of having a ‘normal’ full time career and we would love him to gain a recognised qualification so we can offer him a full time position with us in the next 12 months. So, I have been in touch with disability coalition and they are currently trying to devise a recognised qualification which will fit around Ryan.”
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BLACKPOOL COASTAL HOUSING JOINS IN MERESIDE GALA
27 July 2010
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Blackpool Coastal Housing (BCH) staff have participated in the Mereside Gala.
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The main aspect of the BCH stall was involving the youngsters of the estate. A large map of Mereside was displayed and children were invited to come and show what they think affects the different areas.
Some of the issues being looked at were anti-social behaviour, litter, dog fouling, over-grown gardens and fly-tipping, to name a few. This information will now be used to try and tackle these issues in the future.
The long term aim of BCH is to try to encourage the new generation to be involved in community issues. They hope to work alongside Mereside Primary School and involve the children as consultants to raise any issues they may have.
Any children that took part in the activity received a small toy as well as the choice of some BCH goodies. All participating people were entered into a raffle.
A ‘name the BCH bear’ competition was also conducted, with the winner getting a family pass for four to Blackpool Tower and Circus. The winning name ‘Barney’ was chosen by Chief Executive Peter Jefferson and the lucky winner of the pass was Katy Conroy of Cartmell Road.
The day was a great success with fantastic community involvement from all of Mereside and the workers there had a huge amount of fun.
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GOLDEN GATES HOUSING STAFF TACKLES 3 PEAKS CHALLENGE
27 July 2010
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A team of 15 from Golden Gates Housing (GGH) took on the 3 peak challenge earlier this month and they could not have picked a worse weekend.
This was a fantastic achievement by all the team with no climbing experience between them despite the adverse weather conditions they experienced on each climb.
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The challenge involves travelling the length of the UK to climb the three highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within 24hrs whilst travelling over 500 miles. Despite the conditions they managed to get the majority of the party to complete the challenge with two minutes to spare.
Staff and supply partners dug deep and the challenged raised over £4500 for local charity ‘Brainwave’ and its newly opened centre in Birchwood Warrington. Brainwave has been supporting children with a range of disabilities including Cerebral Palsy, Downs Syndrome, Autism, genetic disorders and development delay.
This money will make such a difference to a child’s life given the support from ‘Brainwave’ which can now be offered.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
27 July 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
Tarka Housing is seeking a Resident Involvement Manager, based in Bideford in North Devon, salary £29,274 to £32,461. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
Tarka Housing is seeking a Housing Services Manager, based in Bideford in North Devon, salary £29,274 to £32,461. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20.
North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31.
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
TENDERS
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for gas servicing and maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for reactive maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for landscape maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19.
Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6.
Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19.
Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17.
To reach the best candidates in the social housing sector, advertise your top jobs in one of our eight regional newsletters or go national to over 40,000 readers. For more information, call Hucksters on 01892 784804.
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IMPORTANT – GUARANTEE YOUR CONTINUED HOUSING NEWS SERVICE
27 July 2010
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Housing News is currently in the process of updating its email subscriber list and is removing a number of ‘bouncebacks’.
These are email addresses that are faulty, no longer exist, or where the person has left the company. However, though many of these need to be removed, there might be some genuine addresses that are removed by mistake.
This will be happening over the coming week, so if your service stops, please let us know by emailing us at: news@housingnews.co.uk stating which regional edition you have stopped receiving.
Also, to make sure you receive a continued, unbroken service, if you do not subscribe directly to the newsletter (e.g. if someone in your organisation forwards the newsletters to you), please sign up now by contacting the same address.
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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
28 July 2010
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EVENT: PROCUREMENT FOR HOUSING (PFH) CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION 2010
28 July 2010
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Venue: Manchester Central
Date: Thursday 7 October 2010
‘More for less’ in social housing
Faced with the squeeze in public funding, PfH’s 2010 Conference will focus on delivering “More for less”. Speakers and workshops will explore how social housing providers can achieve value for money, establish tenant involvement, deliver cashable and non-cashable efficiencies through eProcurement and meet sustainability targets in line with the new Green Homes, Warmer Homes Strategy.
Attend for free with a tenant
In recognition that social landlords need to save money in the current climate and put tenants in the driving seat, PfH is offering Members who sign up as delegates before 31 August, the opportunity to attend for free on the condition that they are accompanied by a tenant.
Speakers
Sarah Webb, Chief Executive, CIH
David Smith, Economics Editor, Sunday Times
Michelle Reid, Chief Executive, Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS)
John Carlton, Chief Executive, Local Partnerships
Who should attend?
Social housing Chief Executives, Finance Directors, Housing Officers, Procurement Officers and Tenants.
Organiser
Procurement for Housing, Unit 2, Olympic Park, Woolston Grange Avenue, Birchwood, Warrington WA2 0YL
T: 0845 864 5260
E: info@procurementforhousing.co.uk
W: www.procurementforhousing.co.uk/Conference2010
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NORTHWARDS HOUSING EXTENDS REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE CONTRACT
28 July 2010
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Manchester based Northwards Housing has extended its relationship with leading repairs and maintenance provider Morrison for an additional two years and eight months.
The contract, which is delivered for Northwards Housing by Manchester Working Limited, Morrison’s joint venture with Manchester City Council, is for the provision of day to day repairs, voids and specialist services to 12,500 properties across North Manchester.
This new contract, which is worth in excess of £20m over its term, has been agreed six months before the contract expiry date, demonstrating the strength of the relationship between the two organisations.
Morrison has been working in partnership with Northwards Housing since September 2006 and played an instrumental role in helping the organisation achieve its three-star with ‘excellent prospects for improvement’, Audit Commission rating in February 2009. The award has enabled Northwards to secure the funding to complete its five-year drive to improve every Northwards home.
Manchester Working has been a valued partner on this project; consistently delivering high quality repairs and improvements, which regularly result in resident satisfaction scores of over 95% and home improvement scores of 9.7 out of 10.
Des Morris, Managing Director for Manchester Working Ltd, said: “This new contract represents a great deal for both parties, both in terms of value for money and quality of service. The Manchester Working and Northwards relationship is a true partnership and together we have been able to introduce new initiatives, which have made a real difference to the customers’ experience.
“Agreeing this contract extension ahead of time, enables both parties to continue to invest in the important job of delivering service excellence to the residents of North Manchester. We now look forward to working with Northwards to deliver even greater improvements and true value for money.”
Larry Patrick, Director of Property Services, added: “This extension builds on our existing strong relationship to further improve both service and value for money. It represents an excellent deal for Northwards tenants.”
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FUSION21 SELECTED FOR ‘BIG SOCIETY’ VISIT
28 July 2010
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Following on from the Prime Ministers speech on the details of his ‘Big Society’ project last week in Liverpool, Huyton based Social Enterprise Fusion21 received a visit from senior Whitehall decision makers.
The Big Society and Deprived Neighbourhoods project was commissioned by Sir Gus O’Donnell.
The aim of the project is to engage senior Whitehall colleagues and partners in meeting this challenge and to consider how they embed priorities around localism, enabling the ‘Big Society’, and delivering more for less, in delivery for the most deprived communities.
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The Top 200 project is about working with communities, external partners and across Whitehall to understand how Government needs to respond to meet challenges and opportunities in the most deprived neighbourhoods. According to statistics 48% of the most deprived 2% of neighbourhoods are located in the North West.
The four selected Big Society test beds are Liverpool, Windsor and Maidenhead, the Eden valley in Cumbria, Sutton in London. These areas would be the first to be able to apply for funding from the ‘Big Society’ bank, which is to be funded using cash from dormant bank accounts and from private sector investment.
The group from Whitehall visited the social enterprise based in Huyton to learn more about the company; they also had the opportunity to speak to trainees and others who have been helped into employment by Fusion21.
Fusion21 is a company that encompasses the ‘Big Society’ values, a social enterprise that uses its own private capital to reinvest in the local community. Self reliant, the organisation doesn’t depend on public sector funding. Instead it works in collaboration with its partners (social landlords, contractors and suppliers) ensuring their procurement contracts generate both positive economic and social outcomes.
Liz Meek Regional Director for Government Office North West said: “Fusion21 demonstrates the amount that can be done using the purchasing power of its partners. Fusion21 is a model that has always been innovative, and is a company with a strong geographical focus, enabling it to have a direct impact at community level.”
The visit gave Fusion21 and its key partners the opportunity to engage with the Whitehall visitors and openly discuss what needs to be done by the government to help social enterprises in the test bed areas like Fusion21.
Dean Rogers of Frank Rogers Construction, a local SME, said of Fusion21: “We’ve been partnering with Fusion21 for several years now and the procurement model has delivered great value for money for social landlords. We are able to provide this because we know there will be consistent demand. Regular reviews mean we are always looking for ways to be more competitive. We are happy to take on high quality trainees and help to sustain the neighbourhoods where we work.”
Chris Murray, Chair of Fusion21, said of the opportunity: “There is a big opportunity for government, the public sector and social enterprise to work together and help deliver big society, whilst creating jobs and using public money more efficiently.
“Fusion21 has demonstrated that this is possible through its innovative procurement model. During tough times the question for anyone spending public money should not be why use a social enterprise route for procurement, rather it should be why are you not using this route, when it can create efficiencies and then reinvest money into service delivery that would otherwise disappear as profits.”
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NEW SERVICE FROM VILLAGES HOUSING
28 July 2010
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Villages Housing website screen shot
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Tenants of Stockbridge Village based Villages Housing can now report a repair online, thanks to a new service.
By clicking on to the main Villages website, www.villages.org.uk, tenants can now go on to the “Do It Online” page where they can not only report a repair, but pay their rent, and view and amend their contact details, thanks to the new “Open Access” module of the website.
All people have to do is register with the site using their unique tenancy reference number and they can start reporting repairs immediately.
Ken Mason, Corporate Services Director at Villages said: “We want to make our services accessible to as many of our customers as possible. Through ‘Open Access’ our tenants will be able to report a repair or pay their rent from the comfort of their own homes.
We know that sometimes it can be difficult for people to get to our office and it can be awkward to make calls to their landlord whilst they are in work. So hopefully, this will provide them with a far more convenient way to access our services.”
Peter Morrisey, a tenant of Villages Housing who tested out the new service added: “I was recently asked to test out the new ‘open access’ part of the Villages website. I must say I was very impressed with it. It was really easy to work out how to set up a password, see and change my details, contact my housing officer or report a repair. I have already actually paid my rent online, which was also really simple and very convenient; no more having to queue at the Villages office.”
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CONTOUR HELPS TENANTS MAKE THE MOST OF THEIR MONEY
28 July 2010
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Contour Housing Group has published a Money Saving Ideas booklet.
Containing hints and tips from its thousands of residents, the booklet should help everyone make the most of their money.
Ann Walton for Contour Housing Group said: “While officially we may be out of recession, there is no doubt that many people are still looking to make their money go as far as possible.
“We asked Contour residents for their ideas on how to save the pennies and help balance the household budget. They responded in their hundreds and so we’ve compiled the best ideas in a booklet which is available both online and in a hard copy version.”
From devising a car share plan for work or days out - to using sodium bricks in your toilet to save water - the booklet provides numerous ideas that could save you pounds.
Go to www.contourhousing.co.uk to read and download a copy online or telephone 0345 602 1120 to request a copy.
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WORKING TOGETHER EXTENDS JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG WORKERS
28 July 2010
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Thousands of pounds of funding from a building firm is being used to extend temporary jobs and training opportunities for young people in Cheshire West.
Weaver Vale Housing Trust is working in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council to extend 10 Future Jobs Fund placements in the two organisations.
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The Trust is using monies raised through Weaver Horizons, a wholly owned property maintenance provider from within the social landlord group, to fund the extended placements.
Picture: (front from left) Four Future Jobs Fund employees at WVHT and CWAC that have benefited from the funding, Graeme Cassidy, Dean Kennerley, Luke Brennan and Adrian Bowden. (Back row from left) Cheryl Quine, from WVHT, Councillor Mike Jones, Paul Barber and Noel O'Neil, from CWAC, and Steve Jennings, Chief Executive of WVHT.
Cheryl Quine, strategic project leader for the Trust said: “The Trust is committed to supporting young people in the local community to find work and build a successful career for themselves.
“This investment will help extend the Future Jobs Fund training and employment opportunities we have made available for young people who had previously been out of work for some time.
“It is even more important that we show our support for young people in the current economic climate where many other businesses are downsizing and making fewer opportunities available.”
The Trust will extend eight of its Future Jobs Fund posts and Cheshire West and Chester Council will also extend 2 posts for Learning Champion Support Workers, based in Northwich and Winsford, for another four months.
Councillor Mike Jones, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “I’m extremely pleased that Weaver Horizons has been able to provide this important funding and that by working in partnership with Weaver Vale Housing Trust we are able to invest in local young people and build stronger local communities through employment and training.”
One of those who will benefit from the funding is 24-year-old Dean Kennerley, who had been out of work for over six months before being offered a post with the Trust as a joiner’s assistant earlier this year.
“Being offered a post as a joiner’s assistant by the Trust through the Future Jobs Fund was crucial for me because I felt it was my last chance,” he said.
“Before starting with the Trust I thought I would be out of work or doing unskilled labour for the rest of my life.
“This role has now given me the opportunity not just to earn a living, but also learn new skills and work towards an NVQ 2 in joinery so that I can become a qualified joiner and build a career for myself.”
The Weaver Horizons team is made up of experienced trade staff who maintain Weaver Vale Housing Trust’s homes.
Weaver Horizons also provides its wide range of services to private customers and housing management companies. These services include the installation of bathrooms, kitchens and redecoration.
The funding was generated by Weaver Horizons from efficiency savings made on a building refurbishment contract with Cheshire West and Chester Council.
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LIVERPOOL CHILDREN SEE CHALLENGES OF DISABLED LIVING IN 3D
28 July 2010
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Children from St. Sebastian’s Catholic Primary School in the Kensington area of Liverpool were given a unique opportunity to discover how homes are designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities as part of a design workshop held at the school.
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The workshop was organised by Cosmopolitan Housing Association which is hoping to convert a grade II listed building on Holly Road into supported living units for people with learning and physical disabilities.
The association’s plans have been turned into a computerised 3D “walkthrough” by Caleb Butler, an architecture student at The University of Liverpool who is gaining experience by working with local based architects BDP and Broadway Malyan Architects.
Picture: Children from St Sebastian’s Primary School in Kensington with teacher Mrs Hagan and Angela Dodson, Project Manager for Cosmopolitan Housing Association (right).
The former care home is adjacent to the school and has been empty for five years. Subject to planning permission, the pupils will be able to watch the building take shape as it is transformed into its new role from September 2010.
The design workshop, which included a visit to the site, was held as part of the National Housing Federation’s ‘Care and Support Awareness’ month and allowed children to gain an insight into the everyday challenges faced by some disabled people and understand how well-designed homes can support their independence.
There was also an opportunity to learn about the challenges of adapting a listed building.
Geoff Redhead, Chief Executive of Cosmopolitan Housing Group, said: “We are pleased to have had the opportunity to involve local children in this exciting new project even before the work has begun. We aim to not only teach them about the way supported living works but to give them an understanding of disabled people and their needs.”
If Cosmopolitan gets the go ahead the building will become home to nine tenants with support provided by L’Arche Liverpool, an international Christian based organisation.
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GREEN FINGERS STRETCH OVER GENERATIONS IN LANCASHIRE
28 July 2010
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Children from St Thomas primary school worked hard with residents of Stransdale Close and Marshaw Place, Garstang, Lancashire to plant up hanging baskets, patio tubs and flower beds at the sheltered homes complex.
Extra pairs of hands were also provided by the ‘Shared Approach’ adult learning group, Age Concern, who donated a trough of flowers planted beforehand by their group members, along with ‘Distinctive Gardens’ and Regenda staff members.
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Picture: Local resident, Joan Baptie receiving a cheque from Terry Rodgers on behalf of the Regenda Group Community Chest fund (to be spent on the garden project and after school activities with St Thomas’s).
Josephine Hogarth, Regenda Neighbourhood Officer said: “The day was fantastic, the weather was hot and sunny and everyone – young and old - joined in the planting. Regenda donated £650 towards the project and the Stransdale & Marshaw Resident’s Group members also donated some of the plants and shrubs.
“Both the residents and children really enjoyed the event and are looking forward to meeting up again in September, when an ’after school club’ will be starting. This will involve weeding the beds, card making and craft work on a weekly basis.”
Joan Baptie, Stransdale Close resident added: “We enjoyed a happy afternoon planting our original flower beds and two new large tubs which has resulted in the enhancement of our residents garden. We had a gazebo on the green so that residents and workers could enjoy a well earned rest and refreshments.
“The residents were also presented with a large cheque from the Community Fund which is to be shared between continual work on garden area and on after school activities with the school. Since our planting day, those residents who are able have been busy watering and weeding. We have also put forward the gardens into Garstang’s entry for North West in Bloom competition.”
Helen Ife, Headteacher at St Thomas’s primary school said: "We were delighted to be involved in this community project. The children concerned were able to plant bulbs in the autumn to provide spring colour and then returned to brighten things up with bedding plants for the summer. It was lovely for the same group of children to be involved and see the garden progress through the seasons."
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
28 July 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
Tarka Housing is seeking a Resident Involvement Manager, based in Bideford in North Devon, salary £29,274 to £32,461. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
Tarka Housing is seeking a Housing Services Manager, based in Bideford in North Devon, salary £29,274 to £32,461. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20.
North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31.
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
TENDERS
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for gas servicing and maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for reactive maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for landscape maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19.
Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6.
Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19.
Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17.
To reach the best candidates in the social housing sector, advertise your top jobs in one of our eight regional newsletters or go national to over 40,000 readers. For more information, call Hucksters on 01892 784804.
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IMPORTANT – GUARANTEE YOUR CONTINUED HOUSING NEWS SERVICE
28 July 2010
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Housing News is currently in the process of updating its email subscriber list and is removing a number of ‘bouncebacks’.
These are email addresses that are faulty, no longer exist, or where the person has left the company. However, though many of these need to be removed, there might be some genuine addresses that are removed by mistake.
This will be happening over the coming week, so if your service stops, please let us know by emailing us at: news@housingnews.co.uk stating which regional edition you have stopped receiving.
Also, to make sure you receive a continued, unbroken service, if you do not subscribe directly to the newsletter (e.g. if someone in your organisation forwards the newsletters to you), please sign up now by contacting the same address.
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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
29 July 2010
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TWO NORTH WEST HOUSING GROUPS TO UNITE
29 July 2010
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Following a comprehensive process of exploratory discussions which were announced in October last year, two of the North West’s largest housing groups confirmed their intention to join forces.
Vicinity Housing Group and Contour Housing Group have agreed to pursue an amalgamation to create a new parent body and so extend the pool of subsidiary housing associations and commercial entities within their expanded partnership.
This new North West housing group will comprise seven stock holding member organisations with property portfolios ranging in size from 1,000 to 12,000 and totalling more than 36,000 homes.
The new organisation will cover 27 local authorities and will benefit these partners by creating a stronger entity which will enable it to do even more to help people with their housing problems. The next phase will include a process of due diligence and tenant and stakeholder consultation. Subject to receiving the required consents, the amalgamation will take place on 31st March 2011.
Key factors influencing this decision have been a joint determination to retain a clear local focus, to deliver excellent service for customers, to capitalise on potential efficiencies and to develop an organisation that can operate from the strongest possible position for the future.
Phil Gandy, Chief Executive of Vicinity Housing Group said: “We are pleased to announce that we intend to progress our partnership with Contour. Fundamentally our cultures, aspirations and long term goals are a good match and we operate within a very similar framework of principles, with shared commitments to our federated structure and the clear local focus and accountability this provides for tenants.”
Mike Creamer, Chief Executive of Contour Housing Group said: “To put it simply, we will be better together; better able to deliver services to our tenants and better placed to face future challenges. We are confident that this is the right decision for the future of both Groups.”
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THREE LIVERPOOL HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS MERGE TO CREATE PLUS DANE MERSEYSIDE
29 July 2010
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Three subsidiaries of the Plus Dane Housing Group in Liverpool – CDS Housing, Greater Hornby Housing Association (Hornby Homes) and New Generation Housing Association - have come together to form Plus Dane Merseyside.
The move, which has been approved by the Tenants Services Authority, follows extensive consultation with tenants and aims to bring together the strengths of the three housing associations and improve efficiency. It will also create significant financial savings, enabling Plus Dane to reinvest those savings to enhance the services it provides to residents.
In July 2008, Cheshire based Dane Housing Group successfully merged with Merseyside based Plus Housing Group to form the Plus Dane Housing Group.
The Group has over 15,000 homes in ownership and management across the region and works as a neighbourhood investor (Ni), spending less on running the business and more on its homes and the neighbourhoods it serves, with the aim of creating and sustaining vibrant places to live.
In merging its 3 subsidiaries to create Plus Dane Merseyside, the Group will also rename its Cheshire operations as Plus Dane Cheshire.
Ken Perry, Chief Executive of Plus Dane Group, said: “As a neighbourhood investor, Plus Dane is dedicated to providing the best possible service to our customers and maximising the resources we can put back into our homes and neighbourhoods to help improve quality of life, choice and opportunity for local people.
“Amalgamating our three Merseyside housing organisations will enable us to unite their strengths and enhance the service we provide to our tenants, whilst ensuring that we continue to deliver on our commitment to spending less on running our business, and putting more investment into our neighbourhoods.”
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MP BACKS UNIQUE HOUSING SCHEME FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA
29 July 2010
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Paul Goggins MP for Wythenshawe and Sale praised Shore Green during his visit to the scheme, which provides housing related support for elderly people affected by memory loss.
Shore Green in Wythenshawe, South Manchester is a partnership development between Irwell Valley and Manchester City Council based on the high demand for residential and care services especially for people with dementia and other memory loss conditions.
Shore Green
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Designed to help couples or families remain together, the development offers four two-bedroom bungalows and six single person flats for rent with the choice of shared living communal areas.
The scheme, which has been commended for its architecture includes specialist design features such as good visual access - curved corridors, continuous pathways, a distinctive high roof – and colour coding and personalisation (shelves/cubby holes with personal items) at the entrances to each flat to help residents identify their door.
In its good practice case study (February 2009), the Department of Health concludes that the Shore Green model efficiently diverts its residents away from expensive nursing home placements - costing the wider health and social care system less than traditional nursing and residential support options - and its focus allows staff to develop skills specific to working with people with dementia.
Commenting on the care service provided by Irwell Valley and Manchester Adult Social Care through Creative Support, Paul Goggins said: “Shore Green is a remarkable place, with space for independent living as well as a safe and caring community when residents need it. The smiles and happiness of those who live there is the best indicator of their success.”
Giles Parlett Supported Services Manager, Irwell Valley added: “Irwell Valley’s philosophy is to treat people with dignity and respect. Shore Green exemplifies this through providing a service and accommodation that is designed to minimise the effects of the illness and maximise the resident’s independence. We are enormously proud of Shore Green’s success and welcome Paul Goggins’ endorsement.”
The MP’s visit coincides with The National Housing Federation Care and Support Awareness campaign throughout July 2010, aimed at raising awareness of the 12,000 crucial services running throughout the North that help nearly 166,000 of the most vulnerable people enjoy independent and fulfilled lives.
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LMH’S SAFER COMMUNITY WORK WINS NATIONAL AWARD
29 July 2010
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An innovative project that sees offenders working full-time in the community to repay their debt has won a national award.
The Liverpool Mutual Homes (LMH)-led scheme won the coveted 2010 Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS) Connecting People Award in Birmingham.
Liverpool Mutual Homes' Intensive Community Payback scheme; Justice Seen, Justice Done has been delivered in partnership with a variety of partners including the Community Justice Centre, Merseyside Probation Service and the police.
LMH’s Intensive Community Payback scheme
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LMH’s tenant representatives also worked tirelessly and their commitment and support was highlighted as a major part in the project’s success, which resulted in a 50 per cent reduction in the number of reports of anti-social behaviour in North Liverpool compared to the three months before.
Tenants say they feel safer in their homes and now have a renewed sense of community spirit.
The scheme allows Judge David Fletcher to sentence offenders appearing at the Community Justice Centre with a new Intensive Community Payback order whereby they have to work five days a week until they complete their unpaid hours, with work starting within two days of sentencing.
Offenders are shown the affects of their crimes and, motivated by role models, they are able to gain experience of full-time work, complete their hours and rehabilitate quicker whilst also seeing the results of their work. They are also given practical help to turn their experience into paid employment.
Police involvement in the scheme has eased fears about attacks on site and reassured residents. The high visibility of the scheme has given residents the confidence to suggest further work and is helping offenders to successfully rehabilitate into the community motivated by direct praise from residents and partners, taking real pride in their achievements and developing a work ethic.
The Intensive Community Payback order has been successfully used as a last chance for offenders who have breached previous community orders to avoid custody. The work is also seen by the community as a tougher alternative to a short spell in prison.
Liverpool Mutual Homes Chief Executive, Steve Coffey, said: "We are delighted to win yet another award and see the hard work of our tenants, staff, and partners recognised, especially as the scheme is making a significant difference to tenants’ lives.
"The Justice Seen, Justice Done project has really transformed north Liverpool with a reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour and has made huge strides in rehabilitating offenders quickly and giving them a renewed sense of purpose.
“It has resulted in tenants feeling safer in their homes and community and the importance of this can not be underestimated.
“We are now carrying out the work in other areas of Liverpool as we continue to tackle anti-social behaviour to make our communities safer and more pleasurable places to live.”
It is the second award the project has won after scooping the Best Local Initiative title at the Liverpool Citysafe Awards.
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EASTLANDS HOMES BACKS CARE AND SUPPORT MONTH
29 July 2010
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This month, Eastlands Homes is backing the National Housing Federation’s campaign to raise awareness of people who need additional support and care.
In conjunction with the campaign, Eastlands Homes has this month launched their own Safe at Home scheme which aims to reduce accident rates among young children by fitting equipment such as safety gates, fireguards and window restrictors, free of charge to qualifying customers.
The scheme was developed in partnership with The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and Eastlands Homes is one of the first social housing providers in the country to have their own scheme. Accident rates for children in the areas in which they have properties are significantly higher than the national average, and so the scheme will address this.
Parents are being urged to take advantage of the new project which provides free equipment to qualifying families.
To receive the equipment, families with children aged 0-5 years of age must be in receipt of one of the following benefits:
a. Income support
b. Job seeker’s allowance (income based)
c. Income based Employment and Support Allowance
d. Tax credits – if one of the partners receives tax credit and has a valid NHS tax exemption certificate
e. Disability living allowance care or mobility component for a disabled child
f. Housing benefit
g. Council tax benefit (not council tax discounts).
Joanne McCabe, Director of Neighbourhood Services, Eastlands Homes, said: “Raising awareness of Care and Support Month is very important in demonstrating our commitment to looking after those that can be considered more vulnerable.
“The Safe at Home service will provide safety information and support to as many families with children under five as possible. We are pleased to be offering this new and exciting initiative to our customers.”
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CHORLEY: VIOLENT THREATS WON’T BE TOLERATED
29 July 2010
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Chorley Community Housing has taken swift action against a tenant who is alleged to have made nasty threats towards a pregnant neighbour.
Sara Watson, a 24 year old tenant who lives in Coppull, has previously been warned about her aggressive and abusive behaviour towards her neighbours and also towards staff.
Despite this warning, in May 2010, housing staff received complaints from several residents of Longfield Avenue, Coppull. They reported that they had seen Ms Watson shouting, swearing and fighting with a male in the area.
When some of the neighbours went out into the street to see what was going on, it’s alleged that Ms Watson threatened one who was heavily pregnant, saying, “You’re pregnant, get in your house, or I’m gonna kick that baby out of you”.
It’s believed that the situation only calmed down after the woman’s partner intervened.
Chorley Community Housing took immediate action to protect neighbours, obtaining a temporary injunction which banned Ms Watson from making threats towards her neighbours and ordered her to stay away from residents who gave evidence in the case.
Ms Watson was given the opportunity to defend these complaints when the case was returned to court on 29th June. However, she failed to turn up so the Judge granted a further 12 month injunction with a power of arrest attached. If Ms Watson breaches the injunction, she could be arrested and sentenced to up to 2 years in prison.
Anti Social Behaviour Manager, Debbie Parkinson said: “We had to act quickly to deal with this complaint, and because of the serious nature of the alleged threats we felt that immediate legal action was appropriate. It’s not acceptable to threaten people and as responsible landlords we will not tolerate it.”
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ST HELENS GROUPS CASH IN ON COMMUNITY FUNDING
29 July 2010
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Residents of Parr in St Helens have had their say on how local money is spent to benefit the community.
Residents packed into the sports hall at Lansbury Bridge School to vote on which projects should receive funding from the re:new Parr Investment Grant.
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Around 150 residents attended the annual voting event where they chatted to bidding groups before presentations got underway. The audience was entertained by a series of lively presentations, including a kickboxing display and breakdancing demonstration.
More than 20 groups presented their projects to the audience who were asked to score each application on how much impact it would have on their community, and 15 groups received support for their scheme.
Among the winning entries were Tiny Tots Toddlers Group, PSS St Helens Young Carers and Friends of Allanson Street, who successfully bid for a portion of the £20,000 fund.
Duncan Nicholas, from re:new Parr, said: “We’re really pleased with the high turnout at the investment grant voting day – it is a great example of how people living in Parr can influence the way local money is spent within the community. It also gave people the opportunity to find out about some of the great projects that are taking place locally.
“We’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to all the groups who applied for funding, and to the residents who came to vote as they helped to make the event a huge success.”
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ROCHDALE BOROUGHWIDE HOUSING HOSTS ‘BIG LUNCH’
29 July 2010
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They may be officially labelled as some of the most deprived neighbourhoods in the country but residents living on the Falinge, Freehold and Kirkholt estates in Rochdale also enjoy another distinction – that of having the strongest community spirit.
This community camaraderie can be seen it all its glory when hundreds get together to celebrate The Big Lunch.
The Johnson family at the big lunch, Kirkholt
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Last week was designated national Big Lunch week, a time when local populations gather together to meet their neighbours and get to know who lives next door, across the road or around the corner.
Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) worked with partner agencies to organise Big Lunches around the Rochdale area.
Nicky Morris Priority Areas Manager for RBH said: “Our residents living in these particular areas have really embraced the vision of the day. Last year The Big Lunch was a great success and this year will be even better with residents travelling between estates to share their events.
“These are not only some of the most deprived wards in the UK but are also some of the most diverse, comprised of people from over 40 nations, speaking over 30 languages.
“We think it’s brilliant they are holding some of the biggest Big Lunches in the North West and their community spirit should be something the rest of us aspire to.”
Three separate events were organised including a massive street party for around 300 people at Kirkholt. Around 250 people in Falinge were celebrating and the Freehold estate enjoyed its party with 250 people.
The Big Lunch was initiated by The Eden Project who wanted to encourage people to get to know other people in their local community. Last year almost 1 million people joined in The Big Lunch in streets, lanes, parks and schools across the country and this year the event is set to be even bigger.
Gareth Swarbrick, RBH’s Chief Executive added: “We are really proud of everyone who (helped) to make The Big Lunch in Rochdale a massive event that people will remember for the rest of the year.”
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
29 July 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
Tarka Housing is seeking a Resident Involvement Manager, based in Bideford in North Devon, salary £29,274 to £32,461. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
Tarka Housing is seeking a Housing Services Manager, based in Bideford in North Devon, salary £29,274 to £32,461. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20.
North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31.
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
TENDERS
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for gas servicing and maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for reactive maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for landscape maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19.
Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6.
Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19.
Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17.
To reach the best candidates in the social housing sector, advertise your top jobs in one of our eight regional newsletters or go national to over 40,000 readers. For more information, call Hucksters on 01892 784804.
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IMPORTANT – GUARANTEE YOUR CONTINUED HOUSING NEWS SERVICE
29 July 2010
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Housing News is currently in the process of updating its email subscriber list and is removing a number of ‘bouncebacks’.
These are email addresses that are faulty, no longer exist, or where the person has left the company. However, though many of these need to be removed, there might be some genuine addresses that are removed by mistake.
This will be happening over the coming week, so if your service stops, please let us know by emailing us at: news@housingnews.co.uk stating which regional edition you have stopped receiving.
Also, to make sure you receive a continued, unbroken service, if you do not subscribe directly to the newsletter (e.g. if someone in your organisation forwards the newsletters to you), please sign up now by contacting the same address.
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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
30 July 2010
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NORTH WEST CONSORTIUM WINS MAJOR REGENERATION FUND
30 July 2010
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A North West consortium led by Manchester City Council and the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) has been selected as preferred bidder to establish a major regeneration fund which will help enable projects critical to the region's economy to go ahead.
The European Investment Bank has chosen a consortium which consists of AGMA, CB Richard Ellis and Greater Manchester Pension Fund as preferred bidder to deliver its proposals for the North West Evergreen Fund. The consortium is supported by local authorities across Cheshire, Cumbria and Lancashire. Lancashire County Council and Manchester City Council will act as co-chairs of Evergreen.
The unique fund will start with £20m in public money allocated from the North West’s share of the European Regional Development Fund as part of its JESSICA (Joint European Support for Sustainable Investment in City Areas) scheme plus £10m additional funding from the North West Regional Development Agency.
This will unlock a further £30m of public sector match funding and could see a total fund in excess of £300m - including investment from both the Greater Manchester and Lancashire Pension Funds - levered into regeneration projects in the North West over the next 10 years.
The vision for Evergreen is to kick-start a sustainable transformation of the North West of England. The proposals will underpin the North West's long term growth and stability through the prudent use of public and private funding. The Evergreen Fund will support the rejuvenation of commercial and industrial assets, sustaining employment in key regional centres and creating new opportunities for communities the length and breadth of the region.
The fund will initially be made up of two pools – one specifically for Greater Manchester and one for Cheshire, Cumbria and Lancashire – plus a third to be spent in either area. Merseyside is not included in the fund as it will be subject to a separate urban development fund.
It will provide loan funding to be invested in projects which will generate a financial return, money which will then be recycled to keep the fund going. The fund will give developers the opportunity to secure finance for strategic sites which will make a significant contribution to the success of the North West’s economy and create jobs. It is ultimately hoped to expand the scope of the fund to include financing for major low carbon, housing and transport projects.
Sarah Whitney, Head of Government and Infrastructure at CB Richard Ellis, said: “The Evergreen Fund will be a highly innovative fund, combining a small amount of public sector funding with substantial private sector investment, and delivering a series of strategic regeneration and development projects across Greater Manchester, Cumbria, Cheshire and Lancashire.
“The consortium's proposals are the result of a uniquely collaborative approach which has meant that more than forty expressions of support were received prior to the submission of the proposals to the European Investment Bank, from local authorities, developers and other public sector bodies, many of which will be beneficiaries of the funding that Evergreen secures. This level of support, which is unparalleled in any other form of local authority investment vehicle, should ensure that the Fund has the best possible start in life.”
Work will now get underway to get the Fund established so that it is operational early in 2011.
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MINISTER VISITS AWARD-WINNING LIVERPOOL REGENERATION WORK
30 July 2010
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A Government Minister visited Liverpool to view first-hand the award winning work of the city’s largest housing association.
Liverpool Mutual Homes (LMH) welcomed Communities and Local Government’s Under Secretary of State, Andrew Stunell, to showcase its work to make neighbourhoods more sustainable.
Andrew Stunell was accompanied by officers from LMH and Liverpool City Council as they viewed LMH’s work on the Daneville Estate in Walton, where tenants’ fuel bills have been reduced by nearly 70 per cent by using the latest products and techniques in over 600-homes.
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Picture: (left to right) LMH’s Dave Woods, Angela Forshaw and Jan Calland with Andrew Stunell at the Daneville Estate.
The work saw energy efficient structural cladding, boilers, central heating systems, dual-flush cisterns, windows and doors installed as well as lofts and roofs insulated.
The upgrades resulted in a reduction in properties’ CO2 emissions by 1943.7 tonnes per year.
Using Structherm’s structural cladding, the appearance and stability of houses was improved and its thermal qualities - which are better than Building Regulations’ standards - saw tenants’ water and heating bills reduced from a potential £800 per year to a projected £236.
The work was recognised by the Homes and Communities Agency which awarded LMH its coveted Reducing Carbon title, and also won Housing Excellence’s Regeneration Scheme of the Year.
The work has transformed the estate from one that just over two years ago was derelict and considered for demolition, into one that now boasts the products of an executive specification with bathrooms featuring Porcelanosa tiles, Grohe taps in bathrooms and Manhattan kitchens.
The rejuvenated estate has resulted in a renewed sense of community spirit among tenants who are now proud of their homes and integrate socially with each other more.
LMH Chief Executive, Steve Coffey, said: “We have hosted a lot of visits to see the improvement of the Daneville Estate because the quality is of such a high standard it has not been seen in social housing before.
“The regeneration works feature products you would normally associate with executive homes and high quality hotels and this is being rolled out at all our properties across the city as part of our £380m investment programme.
“The green agenda is very important to us as well and we have installed the latest energy efficient products that has vastly reduced tenants’ fuel bills and made good strides in reducing fuel poverty among those who live in our communities.”
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BOLTON AT HOME HOSTS NALGAO ‘ARTS, HEALTH & WELLBEING’ SEMINAR
30 July 2010
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Bolton at Home CEO, Jon Lord, has used the NALGAO Arts, Health and Wellbeing seminar as a platform to communicate the unique position in which housing is placed to deliver community based arts projects.
The NALGAO (National Association of Local Government Arts Officers) event, which was hosted by Bolton at Home, took place at Bolton School and Arts Centre (Monday 19 and Tuesday 20 July). Over 130 delegates attended the two day programme.
Attendees included officers involved in both policy and practice related to arts and health commissioning and service provision. The seminar programme included a keynote speech from Bolton at Home CEO, Jon Lord, who reinforced the physical, mental and social benefits arts-projects bring.
Speaking about the event, Jon Lord, said: “Housing is uniquely placed to engage with the poorest communities. This NALGAO event provided an excellent opportunity to share our unique approaches to engaging with communities through the arts.
“Arts have a multi-faceted and diverse role to play in unlocking potential within people and bringing communities together. Arts can be used as a measure of physical and mental health and contribute to well being, they really can be life transforming.
“Arts can be key to bringing those people who have fallen out of this system back into learning and self-development. Housing organisations can bring activities to our communities, plug these gaps and make life changing differences.”
The seminar saw Manchester Metropolitan University’s Director of Arts for Health, Clive Parkinson, deliver a presentation focussed on arts, health and well-being in relation to the Big Society.
Clive said: “Research has shown that as a result of participation in the arts people can cope better, with significant reductions in depression and increased confidence, motivation and well-being. Arts illuminate new ways of doing things in this period of uncertainty.”
The seminar’s opening evening delivered a social and artistic programme, illustrating best practice arts and health organisations in the Bolton area. Guest were welcomed by George Caswell, who championed the ground-breaking Housing Percent for Art scheme in Bolton, and took part in a series of activities illustrating arts, health and wellbeing.
In addition to the key note speeches from Jon Lord and Clive Parkinson, the second day of the seminar explored the many ways that local arts development and delivery supports crosscutting agendas. The seminar demonstrated how working with health initiatives, organisations and communities can increase participation and access to the arts.
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STOCKPORT HOMES NAMED RUNNER UP IN NATIONAL HOUSING AWARDS
30 July 2010
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Stockport Homes is celebrating after being named the runner up of two national awards by the National Federation of ALMOs (NFA).
The winners and runners up of the 2010 NFA Awards were announced at a ceremony at the Midland Hotel, Manchester which was hosted by Janet Street-Porter.
Stockport Homes was named runner up in two categories; the Morrison Facilities Services Most Effective Partnership Project Award for the Play Partnerships Project that has seen new play areas around the Borough of Stockport open for children and young people, and the Kier Building Maintenance Most Outstanding Resident Award for Chrissie Ince’s dedication to giving customers a voice across services.
The Morrison Facilities Services 2010 NFA Awards Most Effective Partnership category recognises effective projects brought about by well managed relationships across the public, private and voluntary sectors.
Stockport Homes has been working with residents and Stockport’s Play Partnership to deliver a range of exciting and adventurous new play areas across the neighbourhoods managed by Stockport Homes. The new spaces provide facilities for all age ranges; from the traditional swings and slides to aerial runways, activity trails, embankment tube slide, basket swings, ‘overhead rotator’ and climbing boulders.
The partners include residents, children and young people and key stakeholders of service and organisations working in our neighbourhoods. This includes regeneration, children and young people, leisure, play, youth services and external partners including Stockport Sports Trust and NPS Stockport.
The Kier Building Maintenance 2010 NFA Awards Most Outstanding Resident category celebrated the work of residents within their community, reducing crime, bringing about community cohesion and making a positive difference to their neighbours.
While Chrissie Ince may have come to Stockport at her most vulnerable, she has taken advantage of every opportunity provided by Stockport Homes to improve the quality of her life and to become a passionate advocate for other customers.
Chrissie took advantage of a number of learning and development activities offered by Stockport Homes, including two Skills for Life sessions. The confidence that she gained on these courses led to Chrissie to enrol on 22 weeks worth of Maths and English courses at a local adult education centre, scoring 99% and 90% respectively.
Chrissie has gone on to become very involved in driving Stockport Homes’ services, first by attending monthly temporary accommodation Resident Meetings and then by becoming a founding member of the Temporary Accommodation Expert Panel. Chrissie has been instrumental in some of the service improvements that the panel have made.
Helen McHale, Chief Executive for Stockport Homes said: “We’re very pleased to be runners up for these two prestigious awards; the play areas are already proving to be a real asset to residents, and with the school holidays upon us I’m sure they’ll be even more popular.
“It was also great to see Chrissie’s dedication to help and improve services recognised as customer involvement is vital in Stockport Homes providing services our customers want and need.”
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SAFETY IS GOLDEN FOR KEEPMOAT HOMES
30 July 2010
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Keepmoat Homes’ drive to improve health and safety in the workplace has been rewarded with a prestigious Gold RoSPA Award.
The company, which is building in the Midlands, the North East, the North West and Yorkshire also gained OHSAS 18001 - the internationally recognised benchmark for occupational health and safety management systems – becoming one of just a handful of construction companies to achieve this standard and the first volume house builder listed on the British Standards Institute web site.
These accreditations are reward for the implementation of a rigorous health and safety programme, designed to develop a safety culture to which everyone is committed - from boardroom to building site.
At the presentation ceremony in Birmingham, RoSPA Awards Manager, David Rawlins, said: “Keepmoat Homes has shown a commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its employees and others. Organisations which do this deserve to have such dedication recognised.
“As well as good ethical and legal reasons for good health and safety management, there is also a strong business case and we are delighted to publicly honour organisations which have shown a genuine commitment to improve performance in this area.”
Keepmoat Homes’ Safety Manager, William Cameron said: “This is a fantastic achievement and also recognition of a great deal of hard work not just by our staff but also our sub contractors – about 600 people in all.
“It acknowledges that we have developed a strong and positive safety culture where people take individual and collective responsibility for working safely. It also endorses the robust safety management systems which we have developed to ensure this safety culture becomes embedded in the company.”
Programmes established by Keepmoat Homes include regular site safety inspections and safety audits, tool box talks for site personnel and a reward scheme for safety innovations.
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HALTON HOUSING TRUST OPENS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC
30 July 2010
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Nick Atkin
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Halton Housing Trust is inviting the public to attend its board meetings in a bid to be even more open and transparent.
Anyone can now attend the meetings to hear the board discuss matters such as the Trust’s future direction and objectives, reviewing its performance, the development of its annual report and feedback on community projects.
On July 14 nine people attended the first open meeting at the Trust’s head office at Daresbury Point and were clearly impressed by the discussions.
Neil McGrath, the Trust’s Director of Resources said: “The feedback we received was very positive. People didn’t realise the board dealt with such a breadth and depth of matters and were quite surprised by the pace of the meeting.”
Agnes Stockton, 89 and of Queens Close in Runcorn, said after attending the meeting: “The invitation came as a surprise, but all I can say is that there are some good people on the board. All the issues that were discussed were interesting and it is the first board meeting I’ve ever been to.”
It is hoped that opening up the meetings will encourage more of the Trust’s customers to get involved and possibly stand for election to the board in future.
The board is made up of Trust customers, council appointees and independent members.
Chief Executive Nick Atkin said: “We are committed to being open and transparent. I am pleased that a number of people attended the first open meeting and hope that more take part in future.
“We are also using the feedback from those who attended to ensure future meetings are even more useful and informative.”
The next meeting is on Wednesday 29th September at Daresbury Point and starts at 6pm.
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GREAT PLACES’ OLDER RESIDENTS GO SURFING THANKS TO GOVERNMENT FUNDING
30 July 2010
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A new housing development for older people in Blackpool is one of the first to get government money to help people enjoy the Internet.
Tulloch Court at Marton, developed by Great Places Housing Group, has gained £4,000 to pay for computer equipment that will be available to neighbours as well as residents.
Tulloch Court
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The Extra Care scheme will be equipped with a webcams, laptops, printers, video cameras and software.
Volunteers will be recruited to help others get to grips with the technology and aims are for a social enterprise and cyber café to be developed, and for Blackpool College to be involved.
Ultimately, plans include a community website and link-ups between older residents and local schoolchildren.
Get Digital is a £2.8m government-funded project to provide computer equipment and digital skills training to older people in England who are living in sheltered accommodation.
The aim is to help almost 8,000 older residents across England acquire digital literacy skills and understanding, improve their ability to use digital technologies including the Internet and enjoy the benefits this provides.
Tulloch Court is a newly completed £5.68m development of 46 two-bedroom apartments, commissioned by Blackpool Council.
Daniel Mountford, fundraising co-ordinator at Great Places, said: “We’re delighted to have gained this funding. It’s just the start of the story – we’re planning great things to benefit all sorts of local people.”
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CDHT BIKE CHALLENGE 2010 COAST TO COAST
30 July 2010
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A team of amateur bike enthusiasts at Chester & District Housing Trust is gearing up for the challenge ahead - a 147 mile bike ride on the national Coast to Coast route starting at Workington on the West Coast and heading to Tynemouth in the East.
Eleven cyclists and two drivers will depart from CDHT’s Octavian Centre in Chester early today to undergo the gruelling challenge.
The challenge will be broken down into 3 legs of 47 miles on day one, 56 miles on day two and the last day of 44 miles. In between these mile posts are The Lake District and The Pennines.
All eleven cyclists have visited Claire House and were given a guided tour of the hospice showing how and where monies will be used. The team is still looking for sponsorship. Donations can be made to CDHT’s Finance department (contact Mandy Turner 01244 305432) who will pass on all monies raised to Claire House.
The team is:
Cyclists: Morgan Bailey, Kev Bean, Charlie Boden, Paul Finch, Dion Jones, Darren Lavender, Dan Lloyd, Jay Shepherd, Sarah Perry, Phil Whitlow & Andre Kujawinski.
Drivers: Ian Arnott & Ray Hunt.
Photographer: Jay Shepherd.
Andre Kujawinski, Maintenance Officer (Bathrooms) who has planned and organised the event said: “We’re now coming to the end of our training programme and looking forward to getting going. This challenge is far more than we could have coped with individually but as a team we are sharing responsibilities and ensuring everything is ready for the weekend. I hope the weather improves.”
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
30 July 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
Tarka Housing is seeking a Resident Involvement Manager, based in Bideford in North Devon, salary £29,274 to £32,461. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
Tarka Housing is seeking a Housing Services Manager, based in Bideford in North Devon, salary £29,274 to £32,461. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20.
North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31.
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30.
Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing date: August 6.
TENDERS
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for gas servicing and maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for reactive maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
Hillhead Housing Association is inviting tenders for landscape maintenance works. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 11.
St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19.
Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6.
Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19.
Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17.
To reach the best candidates in the social housing sector, advertise your top jobs in one of our eight regional newsletters or go national to over 40,000 readers. For more information, call Hucksters on 01892 784804.
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IMPORTANT – GUARANTEE YOUR CONTINUED HOUSING NEWS SERVICE
30 July 2010
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Housing News is currently in the process of updating its email subscriber list and is removing a number of ‘bouncebacks’.
These are email addresses that are faulty, no longer exist, or where the person has left the company. However, though many of these need to be removed, there might be some genuine addresses that are removed by mistake.
This will be happening over the coming week, so if your service stops, please let us know by emailing us at: news@housingnews.co.uk stating which regional edition you have stopped receiving.
Also, to make sure you receive a continued, unbroken service, if you do not subscribe directly to the newsletter (e.g. if someone in your organisation forwards the newsletters to you), please sign up now by contacting the same address.
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NEWS 
