JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
01 February 2010

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR NEW BOARD MEMBERS?
01 February 2010

Are you looking for new board members? If your association is looking for new board members why not advertise in Housing News. Our free daily news bulletin is the best-read housing publication in your region and we offer our advertisers real value for money. Don’t take our word for it – look what Jenny George, marketing & communication assistant at Two Rivers Housing Association has to say: “We recently used the Housing News to advertise for a vacancy on our Board, I’m pleased to say we had the highest number of responses for this position than any other advertisement we placed, it was excellent value for money. “As a marketing professional I look forward to receiving the bulletin, it helps keep me up-to-date with local, regional and national news. And the best part is it’s free!” To advertise, contact Hucksters at 01892 784804 or email housingnews@hucksters.co.uk.

TOR HOMES PLANS NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES IN TOTNES
01 February 2010

An exhibition is set to be held by affordable housing provider Tor Homes on Thursday 11 February at its offices at Tor House, St Peters Quay, Totnes. Howard Toplis The exhibition features plans for the re-development of Phase II at Culverdale, Bridgetown, Totnes. The two-acre site currently has 24 bungalows built in the 1960’s, the majority of which are empty. The plans for 39 much-needed new affordable homes include both houses and flats, which will be a mixture of rent and shared ownership properties. Howard Toplis, chief executive of Tor Homes, said: “There is a chronic lack of land and a huge need for affordable homes for local people in the Totnes area and these new homes will go some way to meeting that need.” The new homes will all be designed to a standard set by the government which says that all homes must reach what is called a Code for Sustainable Homes. Tor Homes aims to reach the higher level of four, which includes standards for household waste recycling, rainwater harvesting, water efficiency measures and cycle storage areas. The properties will achieve a 40 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions. Amongst the features will be solar panels and measures to make the homes cheaper to run. The exhibition will show designs for the new housing and staff from Tor Homes will be on hand to answer questions. The scheme is subject to the planning consultation process and planning permission. Totnes and its surrounding area tops South Hams District Council’s list of areas in the greatest need of affordable housing and there are over 500 applicants on their waiting list.

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SIGNPOST USES LATEST TECHNOLOGY TO CRACKDOWN ON ASB
01 February 2010

Ridding a road in Bournemouth of anti-social behaviour took a major leap forward this week with the help of technology. Using sound monitoring equipment, housing staff at Signpost Housing Association were able to provide evidence to the Bournemouth County Court and successfully obtained a suspended possession order for anti-social behaviour. The evidence was collected by the housing officer over an 18-month period, based on information from affected neighbours and the police detailing a catalogue of serious incidents over that time. Andrew Heath, housing services manager at Signpost, said: “This is the first successful prosecution obtained by the association using its noise monitoring equipment. “The equipment helps our staff to monitor noise levels which provides us with physical evidence that is needed to prosecute this type of case. “As always we would like to thank all those involved especially the residents and the police.” Mr Plowman, a resident living in the affected road added: “It has been an experience I hope never to go through again, as this has pushed me and my family near to breaking point. “It is refreshing to know that good family and law abiding citizens do get to have their day in court and can take on nuisance neighbours and win. “We can now begin to enjoy our home and hopefully look forward to a nice summer without having to close our French doors to block out the loud music and foul mouth. “We shall however continue to monitor behaviour and keep the association informed of any issues we may have, but hopefully look forward to a peaceful life.”

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WALES & WEST PROJECT TACKLES FUEL POVERTY
01 February 2010

A pioneering project at a Wales & West Housing Association (WWHA) retirement scheme to help tackle the issue of fuel poverty has been given the thumbs up by First Minister Carwyn Jones. The project, at The Beeches retirement complex in Bridgend, is the result of a partnership between WWHA, Wales and West Utilities (WWU) and Warm Wales and kicks off the fuel poor initiative, which is to be rolled out across Wales. The fuel poor scheme, to extend WWU’s gas network to fuel poor communities and individuals who have previously not been able to benefit from a connection to gas mains, comes after agreement with industry regulator, Ofgem and through the collaboration of two organisations who will be working with WWU to help to deliver the initiative. Anne Hinchey, chief executive of Wales & West Housing Association, said: “Being able to access affordable, reliable sources of fuel has never been more important, especially for older people during prolonged spells of bitter winter weather, such as the one we are experiencing now. “Wales & West Housing Association was delighted to have been involved from the start with this new scheme. “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of all the parties involved, our residents at The Beeches in Bridgend are now benefiting from the new gas supply. I’d like to thank everyone for their help including local firm Gibson’s Specialist Technical Services who did so much of the work.” Mr Jones, AM for Bridgend added: "I am delighted that this scheme to bring cost effective warmth to those who live at the Beeches in Bridgend has been so successful. “I understand this is the first such project in Wales and I am really pleased that I was able to help the residents in kick-starting the project with Wales and West Utilities and Wales and West Housing Association.” The Beeches project, first discussed in October 2009, took only two months from conception to completion. In addition to ensuring the rapid delivery of services, WWHA was keen to ensure that the scheme also benefited the local economy as much as possible. Gibson Technical Services, a Bridgend-based company, was commissioned to carry out the installation. Tim Mann, contracts manager for WWHA, said: “We were able to deliver so very quickly because of the commitment of all of the partners involved, right from the merchants ensuring that everything was on site when it was needed, to the dedication of the engineers, Gibson Technical Services, who did the installations, and not forgetting, of course, co-operation of Wales & West Utilities.” Warm Wales and EAGA plc are responsible for evaluating applications against criteria set by the regulator. They may also be able to identify additional help for those who might not be aware of the opportunities available for home energy saving and support. Graham Edwards, WWU’s chief executive, added: “This is a positive step forward in addressing the issue of fuel poverty and we are delighted to have worked with Warm Wales and Wales & West Housing Association in ensuring that this local retirement complex is one of the first to benefit from the scheme.”

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RCT HOMES REDUCES ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR IN THE VALLEYS
01 February 2010

RCT Homes has been recognised by the Welsh Assembly Government for its work in tackling and reducing anti social behaviour in the valleys. In 2008, the Welsh Assembly Government launched the Wales Housing Management Standard for Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour and this month the community mutual housing organisation RCT Homes achieved “Working towards the standard” recognition with aims to reach the high standard by the end of this year. The standard is a voluntary code for housing associations and local authorities that demonstrates a commitment to the creation of safe and sustainable communities through the reduction of anti social behaviour. It is also a way to drive forward improvements in the way services are provided. Picture: Sonia Dellay, community safety officer, Heather Pearse, housing manager, Jane Hayman, community safety officer, Louise Owen, affordable housing delivery officer and Judith Askew, head of affordable housing at the Welsh Assembly Government. Sonia Dellay, RCT Homes’ community safety officer, received the certificate, along with fellow community safety officer Jane Hayman and housing manager Heather Pearse from Judith Askew, Head of Affordable Housing and Louise Owen, Affordable Housing Delivery Officer, Welsh Assembly Government, at a presentation this week at the WAG offices in Merthyr Tydfil. Ms Dellay said: “RCT Homes signed up to this standard as tackling anti social behaviour is a real priority for ourselves and our tenants – creating safer communities is our focus. “We wanted to publicly commit to delivering high quality services in this area. We already do a great deal of preventative and proactive work around anti social behaviour but this will help us to take its a step further and the recognition is fantastic. “We actually based aspects of our Anti Social Behaviour strategy on commitments that form part of the standard. We will now be developing initiatives to help us achieve the standard by December 2010.” Ms Askew added: “We are pleased to be able to award RCT Homes this certificate for ‘Working Towards’ meeting our Wales Housing Management Standard for Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour. “They are one of only a limited number of housing organisations to have so far received the award so we want to congratulate RCT Homes.” As part of reaching the standard, RCT Homes, working with it tenants, will assess the level of service in seven commitment areas. These areas include prevention and early intervention, empowering and reassuring tenants and support to tackle the causes of anti-social behaviour. Ms Dellay said: “To move this forward we are developing a Stakeholder Forum which will include three tenants who have gone through the experience of dealing with ASB, along with housing officers, community safety officers and a board member. “Working with tenants and community groups in this way will help us to understand the needs and priorities of the local community and improve the quality of life for tenants and communities.”

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LOVE IS IN THE AIR AT YARLINGTON HOUSING SCHEME
01 February 2010

To prove that romance is not just for the young, Raymond Bowers and Miss Rocio Casanueva tied the knot after 14 years together on Thursday 27 January at 3pm at Yeovil Register Office. The young-at-heart couple, who met when Raymond was on holiday in Sapin, are residents of the Yarlington Housing Group retirement living scheme at Parsonage Close in Somerton, where a reception was held after the marriage ceremony. When the couple decided that the time had come to make it official, they realised that their day would not be complete without their dog, Petra, so they were given permission for the collie to join them for the ceremony. Miss Casanueva, whose mother and aunt who travelled from Spain to be with her on her special day, said: “It was a very romantic proposal, and age doesn’t matter if you are in love.” Yarlington Housing group support co-ordinator, Irene Vincent added: “They had a wonderful day, and we all wish them every happiness.”

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
01 February 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Raven Housing Trust is seeking a Housing Manager, based in Redhill, Surrey, salary c. £40k. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: February 2. Villages Housing is seeking a Community Development Officer, based in Oldham, salary £20,525. For more information, go to northwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: February 8. CIH in Scotland is seeking a Head of Policy & Public Affairs. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing Date: February 12. Helena Partnerships is seeking a Research & Performance Advisor, salary £25,500 – £27,000 pa. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 12. Berwickshire Housing Association is seeking a Financial Inclusion Officer, £26,592 - £29,235. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: 12 noon on February 5. Rural Stirling Housing Association is seeking a Housing Services Manager (Depute Director). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: noon on February 15. TENDERS Hebridean Housing Partnership is inviting tenders for its Approved Contractor List. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 26. West Dunbartonshire Council is inviting tenders for a Lead Consultant . For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 15. 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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JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
02 February 2010

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COASTLINE TO UNVEIL PADSTOW AFFORDABLE HOMES
02 February 2010

Coastline Housing is to unveil the first affordable housing to be built in the tourism honey-pot town of Padstow in over five years. The homes, being built by Trine Developments, will comprise 28 apartments, 12 of which will be rented out to people in housing need locally by Coastline Housing, and 16 of which will be sold on the open market by Trine Developments. The rented properties will include nine one-bedroom and three two-bedroom apartments. The purchase of the affordable rented homes is being funded largely thanks to funding of £798,000 from the Homes and Communities Agency and Cornwall Council. Robert Nettleton, chief executive of Coastline Housing, said: “Padstow is an area of acute housing need, where the development of affordable housing is long overdue. “These apartments will be particularly important to local people who want to continue to live in the town, but have been priced out of the market.” The apartments will be built to the Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3. This energy efficiency standard has to be attained by all newly built affordable homes and includes items such as solar panels, highly efficient gas combi boilers and radically improved levels of insulation, all of which means reduced future running costs for customers. They will also meet Building for Life and Lifetime Homes standards. Work on the scheme began in early 2010 and the properties are likely to be completed by early 2011.

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SPECTRUM JOINS HOUSING E-ACADEMY
02 February 2010

Spectrum Housing Group has joined the Housing e-Academy. Spectrum joined the Housing e-Academy in late 2009 in order to offer staff and board members flexible and accessible training opportunities via the internet in addition to the comprehensive training services already provided. Sharon Burrows, group learning & development manager, said: “We are looking forward to adding e-learning to our successful learning & development portfolio for core topics, health & safety, personal development and blended learning. “We believe that this will be cost effective, easy to use and easily accessible for all of our staff members.” The group owns and manages over 17,000 homes, maintains a further 30,000 properties and will be developing in the region of 700 homes a year through the Source Development Partnership across the South and South West of England. Chloe Weatherhead, Housing e-Academy manager, added: “I’m sure that Spectrum will work had to roll out e-learning and make good use of the learning management system. “They have already begun to develop internal e-learning courses and the Housing e-Academy team are looking forward to working with Spectrum and supporting them in their new venture.”

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HOUSING OMBUDSMAN SERVICE EXTENDED TO WALES
02 February 2010

The Public Services Ombudsman for Wales has signed up to a project run by the Housing Ombudsman Service, Local Government Ombudsman and HouseMark to help housing providers perform better when their tenants complain. The ‘Ombudsman Says’ service, which launched in April 2009, has already made a wide range of English housing association and local authority housing case digests available online to show landlords what to do – and what not to do – when things go wrong. Now, under the new agreement, landlords will also have fast and easy access to cases involving Welsh housing providers. Reacting properly when a tenant complains is crucial, particularly given the increased focus on tenants at the heart of the regulatory regime. HouseMark deputy chief executive, Samantha McGrady said: “We are delighted that the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales has agreed to join us in providing this important improvement service to landlords. "Complaints is a hot topic in Wales – the regulation of housing associations is being overhauled and the Local Government (Wales) Measure 2009 is placing a spotlight on local authority corporate arrangements which includes complaints handling. "The outcome of both initiatives will include an expectation of improved complaints handling on the part of social landlords. Landlords need to make sure they are one step ahead and start thinking now about how they measure up to the challenge.” Public Services Ombudsman for Wales, Peter Tyndall added: “I consider it an important part of my role to support continued improvement in the standards of public services in Wales. "I strive to reduce complaints by helping service providers to improve their initial decision making. “I am, therefore, very pleased to join the Ombudsman Says partnership as this offers an important resource for sharing the lessons that can be learnt from my investigations with social housing providers.” HouseMark has also recently launched a new complaints benchmarking service for its subscribers. Social landlords are now able to compare their performance on a range of performance indicators to better understand their strengths and weaknesses, thereby complementing ‘Ombudsman Says’ as an additional sectoral improvement tool in this critical service area. The website can be searched by keyword, topic and tenure and is regularly updated with new cases and information.

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BRISTOL SIGNS UP TO CARBON CUTTING SCHEME
02 February 2010

Bristol City Council has signed up to radical plans slashing carbon emissions by 40 per cent within 10 years to help tackle climate change. The move will help cut fuel bills and reduce global warming, Communities Secretary John Denham claimed as he confirmed it was one of nine cities that will work with Government over the next year to pioneer and test ways of reducing emissions. It means the city will have a large scale home insulation project and will investigate alternative sources of energy, such as tapping into surplus supplies from solar panels. Bristol was chosen because it is already working on a raft of green schemes, such attempting to double the number of cyclists. It will now work with Whitehall on expanding recycling schemes, improving energy efficiency, and improving transport. Mr Denham said: "Green groups have long campaigned on the Think Global, Act Local slogan knowing that it is action taken in homes, in villages, towns and cities that will really deliver the change and the groundswell of support to make the difference on carbon emissions. “Local authorities – through their oversight of housing, planning, waste, transport coupled with the significant spending power they possess – are uniquely positioned to use their role and influence to drive and shape a low carbon economy, low carbon living and influence the kind of behaviour change that will be needed to meet the UK commitment to the 34 percent cut in emissions on 1990 levels by 2020. "Councils are already making huge advances on this agenda. We want all local authorities to take the lead on reducing emissions in their area."

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COUNCIL TO DECIDE FATE OF AFFORDABLE HOMES PLAN
02 February 2010

Cornwall Council is to decide whether to approve plans for a new housing estate at St Merryn. The application by Midas Homes is for 22 new properties at land opposite Donkey Park. The proposed scheme will include 11 homes for sale as well as 11 affordable homes comprising a range of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes set in a cul-de-sac. Before the application was submitted, invitations were sent to 368 homes in the village asking residents to attend a public consultation in the village hall. Over the day 45 people from 33 properties in the village went to look at the plans. Midas Homes' senior development manager, Mark Copleston said: "St Merryn is very picturesque and this well-designed scheme would complement its surroundings. "We are working closely with the council and the current residents to ensure the development is in-keeping." The officers' planning report said St Merryn Parish Council has supported the application. The planning report said: "The proposed affordable dwellings are anticipated to provide for a much needed form of accommodation within the parish. "The public open space is of appropriate size and location in my view to serve a welcomed service for both the development and the community." Officers have recommended the application for approval subject to conditions including a planning gain agreement to ensure the houses are for local people and a financial contribution to education infrastructure. The final decision will be made by councillors on the east sub-area planning committee at their meeting at Luxstowe House tonight.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
02 February 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Raven Housing Trust is seeking a Housing Manager, based in Redhill, Surrey, salary c. £40k. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: February 2. Villages Housing is seeking a Community Development Officer, based in Oldham, salary £20,525. For more information, go to northwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: February 8. CIH in Scotland is seeking a Head of Policy & Public Affairs. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing Date: February 12. Helena Partnerships is seeking a Research & Performance Advisor, salary £25,500 – £27,000 pa. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 12. Berwickshire Housing Association is seeking a Financial Inclusion Officer, £26,592 - £29,235. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: 12 noon on February 5. Rural Stirling Housing Association is seeking a Housing Services Manager (Depute Director). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: noon on February 15. TENDERS Hebridean Housing Partnership is inviting tenders for its Approved Contractor List. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 26. West Dunbartonshire Council is inviting tenders for a Lead Consultant . For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 15. 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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JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
03 February 2010

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SIGNPOST POINTS THE WAY TO EXCELLENCE
03 February 2010

Jon Simmons A Dorset-based housing association has been recognised as delivering an excellent service to its residents. Signpost Housing Association, together with sister company Signpost Care Partnerships, have been awarded Enhanced Certification status by Quality Housing Services (QHS) in recognition of excellence. The Associations learnt of their enhanced status through results from a recent audit carried out by QHS which covers a range of services including: How the association deals with complaints from customers Its approach to involving residents in service delivery and; How it handles repairs and maintenance. Jon Simmons, policy and customer services manager at Signpost, said: “This is excellent news for Signpost. We joined QHS in 2008 and set ourselves a clear objective to achieve enhanced certification by March 2010. “It's great to be able to say we've done it and staff deserve the award as recognition for all the hard work they've put in to continually improving services throughout the last few years.” To achieve enhanced status Signpost had to meet the full QHS criteria of excellence. The criterion defines high standards for social housing organisations and independently assesses performance through audits, mystery shopping, polling and surveys. Enhanced Certification is the highest level of achievement a housing association can achieve against the standard and demonstrates that the organisation has delivered services to an exceptional standard. Signpost joins Medina Housing Association, fellow member of Spectrum Housing Group, in the enhanced status category.

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HELP FOR CHELTENHAM TENANTS TO BUY FIRST HOME
03 February 2010

New measures to help council tenants buy their first home will be voted on next week. Cheltenham Borough Council’s cabinet will discuss plans to introduce intermediate housing as a stop-gap between council-owned property and private homes. The move is aimed at helping the richest council tenants get their feet on the property ladder by renting a new home until they can actually afford to buy it. Peter Woolley, assistant director for community services at the council, said: “It is a temporary thing which we want to bring in, in order to combat the recession. “The homes will be priced somewhere between social housing and the private market, and they will be mostly rent-to-buy. “This means the tenant will rent them from a housing association until they have saved up a deposit to buy them. “It is a way of helping people who cannot afford to make the jump straight to the private market.” According to research conducted by the council, the cheapest private properties in Cheltenham are up to four times more expensive to buy than a similarly-sized council home. The gap means even relatively wealthy council tenants cannot afford to buy a private property in the town. Housing bosses see intermediate homes, which will be aimed at households earning up to £60,000 a year, as the ideal stepping stone. They recommend a third of new affordable housing in Cheltenham should be deemed “intermediate”. Cabinet members will discuss the proposals at their meeting on Tuesday 9 February. Mr Woolley said the measures, if they were also approved by the full council later this month, would only be in place until the economy picked up. He added: “This is for the recession, so it will only last until we are out of the worst of it – that could be two or three years, or it could be even less than that. “It will be a requirement for anyone building homes to provide some intermediate housing.”

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RESIDENT NAMES NEW YARLINGTON HOUSING SCHEME IN CHARD
03 February 2010

Mrs Eileen Hunt of Chard is the winner of a competition to name a new development in the town. Amanda Matthews (left) with Mrs Hunt At her suggestion, the new retirement living scheme in Bradfield Way, being built for Yarlington Housing Group, will be known as Bishop’s Court. The idea came to Mrs Hunt, who has lived nearby for 24 years, as she remembered the time she moved into her present home. She said: “There are many unusual road names in Chard, including Bubwith where I live, and when we first moved in I decided to find out what they meant. “I found they were names of Bishops, including the very well known Bishop Jocelyn, and as this is an iconic development, I thought it was appropriate to call if Bishop’s Court, as it stands among many Bishop’s names.” Mrs Hunt received £50 of National Garden Vouchers for her winning entry from PR & marketing manager, Amanda Matthews, who added: “We had a tremendous response to this competition, but this name stood out as a clear winner.” The development, which is due for completion in the summer, will offer 62 apartments for retirement living on a rental basis through the housing association.

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SHEPTON MALLET ESTATE ‘FLOURISHING’
03 February 2010

It was the “Wild West” estate which had 900 police patrols in three months, including mounted officers, but now the Hillmead estate in Shepton Mallet is tamed – and families who fled are keen to move back. The remarkable turnaround has been achieved through the collaboration of the whole community, including Flourish Homes, police and the residents themselves. Two years ago drug addicts and trouble-makers made life a misery for the dozens of other residents of the 13 blocks of flats. People were intimidated by rowdy groups hanging around common entrances, loud music was played through the night and litter bins were constantly set alight. Residents of a nearby conservation area were put in fear by similar petty arson incidents and reported drunken intruders in their gardens. But now, since residents took the courage to give evidence against the troublemakers, Flourish alone has evicted 11 bad tenants. The remaining residents are involved in discussions on how to improve the estate, a youth club looks set to be reformed, and every flat will have either its own garden, patio or balcony. Everyone has a huge sense of pride in what has been achieved, and a residents’ committee may be formed to take improvements further. Pauline Davey, spokeswoman for Flourish, formerly Mendip Housing, is quick to praise the tenants whose testimony helped evict those who were causing the misery. She said: “We can only apply to evict if there is a lot of evidence that someone has broken their tenancy agreement, and mostly the only people who can provide long-term evidence are other tenants. “We have had incredible support from tenants who were brave enough to give that support. “Coupled with that Mendip district council has allowed us to have a local lettings policy which gives us more choice about who we house to try to build a more sustainable community. “We are working closely with the tenants and other agencies, and have an estate surgey once a week.”

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GLOUCESTERSHIRE PENSIONERS LIVING IN POVERTY
03 February 2010

Government figures show 21 areas in Gloucestershire are among the most deprived 20 per cent in England in terms of older people’s income and the amount of benefits they receive. According to the income deprivation index, which measures the percentage of the population over 60 who are living on means-tested benefits, the 21 ‘hotspot’ neighbourhoods include areas in the Barton and Tredworth ward, areas of Matson and Robinswood, parts of Moreland ward, and parts of Westgate, Kingsholm and Wotton, Podsmead and Tuffley wards. Also included are Oakley, Pittville and St Paul’s in Cheltenham; Cirencester Watermoor in the Cotswolds; and Prior’s Park, Tewkesbury. Linda Shepherd, senior manager at Age Concern Gloucestershire, said: “Age Concern has been campaigning for a number of years for a more reasonable state pension for the elderly. “We’ve always been concerned that, for many pensioners, it’s a choice between eating or heating and that’s an intolerable situation.”

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
03 February 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Villages Housing is seeking a Community Development Officer, based in Oldham, salary £20,525. For more information, go to northwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: February 8. CIH in Scotland is seeking a Head of Policy & Public Affairs. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing Date: February 12. Helena Partnerships is seeking a Research & Performance Advisor, salary £25,500 – £27,000 pa. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 12. Berwickshire Housing Association is seeking a Financial Inclusion Officer, £26,592 - £29,235. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: 12 noon on February 5. Rural Stirling Housing Association is seeking a Housing Services Manager (Depute Director). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: noon on February 15. TENDERS Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8. Hebridean Housing Partnership is inviting tenders for its Approved Contractor List. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 26. West Dunbartonshire Council is inviting tenders for a Lead Consultant . For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 15. 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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JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
04 February 2010

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COASTLINE HOUSING UNVEILS NEW HOMES IN ST IVES
04 February 2010

Coastline Housing has unveiled a development of 33 new affordable homes for local people in St Ives. The £4.7 million scheme is a mixture of houses and bungalows ranging from two-bedrooms to four-bedrooms. The new homes in Joannies Avenue, St Ives. The development secured more than £1 million funding from the Homes and Communities Agency, and £300,000 from Cornwall Council. Designed by architects RAHA (Rogers and Haynes Architects), and constructed by Mi-Space, the scheme has achieved an EcoHomes rating of ‘very good.’ All of the homes feature energy efficiency measures including highly efficient combi-boilers and radically improved levels of insulation, all of which means reduced future running costs for residents. Robert Nettleton, chief executive of Coastline Housing, said: “The fact that St Ives is so hugely attractive to the tourist industry means that many local people have been forced to search for a home elsewhere. “We know that these properties will make a real difference to local individuals, couples and families in need of a home of their own.” He added: “This development would not have been made possible without the support of central Government, Cornwall Council and the local town council. It really is a great example of how partnership working can deliver much needed new homes.” The scheme, named Joannies Avenue and Joannies Watch, is based in the Consols area of St Ives. It comprises a mix of rented housing and shared-ownership properties, for people looking to get a foot onto the housing ladder. The word ‘Joannies’ refers to the history and heritage of the town’s fishing industry. Laura Haynes, head of development at Coastline Housing, added: “When local fishermen broke an oar, they would whittle down the remaining wood to carve a small doll. “Once home, the doll would be given as a special present to their children – the dolls were called ‘Joannies’. “A member of staff discovered the story and thought it would make an excellent name for the development. Cornwall Council agreed, and liked the fact that the new scheme would take its name from the history of St Ives.” Forty-five Jubilee Joannies have been created by local Steve Martin to mark the occasion.

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SOVEREIGN SECURES NEW SITES FOR DEVELOPMENT
04 February 2010

While some housing associations have found it hard to acquire new sites for development, Sovereign has been investing in different kind of new sites across the South West. In the last few months it has been difficult for both developers and housing associations to find new sites or have the necessary funds to pay for them. However, Sovereign has worked hard to make sure that it has still been able to find suitable land in preferred locations. This has also been helped by the fact it has been able to offer no deferred payments and is now also able to enter into joint ventures with landowners. A key part of Sovereign’s strategy has been to identify new types of sites in the south west that Sovereign could use for affordable new homes. An example of this is Mount Pleasant farm, Bristol, which is ideally located just outside Bristol in Longwell Green, a popular area where affordable homes are in demand. The 4.5-acre farm should provide over 60 new homes at a time when the housing market is slowing. James Gibson, assistant development director (West) of Sovereign, said: “Sovereign has been bucking the trend in the last few months by acquiring varied development opportunities in the south west. “By buying up farms and other selected sites we hope to also kick start other development at the same time, ultimately offering more affordable new homes in the South West.”

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CREDIT UNION LOANS FOR YARLINGTON TENANTS
04 February 2010

Yarlington Housing Group has formed a partnership with the Camelot Credit Union to offer a loan facility for tenants in the Yeovil and South Somerset area. Those tenants who have a good rent payment and tenancy compliance record and have demonstrated sound financial management will not be required to meet the usual criteria of a savings history with Camelot, as their proven track record with Yarlington will provide sufficient evidence of their credibility, regardless of credit history or rating. This will enable tenants to take out loans, at the lowest end interest rates in the current market, to cover those unforeseen events, and avoid the dangers of disreputable loan providers. Picture: (left to right) Signing the agreement are Yarlington Housing Group finance director Caroline Moore, Yarlington’s financial inclusion officer Janet Howarth, and Tim Smith, of Camelot Credit Union. They will also be able to make repayments on their loan at the company’s head office in Yeovil, during normal office opening hours, in addition to the facilities offered by Camelot across the area. Yarlington’s financial inclusion officer, Janet Howarth said: “This is a tremendous benefit to our tenants. “It is often the spiralling interest charges rather than the loan itself that becomes unmanageable, so to be able to get a low interest loan will save so many knock-on problems. I can see it being a huge success.” The Credit Union, which has been operating since 1999, was set up in Yeovil to provide a facility across South Somerset to help people manage their money. Showing people how to save for the things they need is the first principle of the organisation, but there are always times when the unexpected happens and funds are needed urgently.

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RCT HOMES PLAY TO HIGHLIGHT DANGERS OF DOORSTEP LENDING
04 February 2010

Residents of Aberdare will be the first community to see a play performed on tour and get to hear a tenant’s story about her experience of the dangers of doorstep lender. Part of RCT Homes’ dedicated financial inclusion scheme to bring financial awareness and support to tenants, the Sound as a Pound scheme will take to the road later this month. Setting up at St Mairs day centre on Seymour Street for the afternoon, local people will be able to visit the free event and watch the performance of ‘A New Coat’, the play commissioned by RCT Homes and starring RCT Homes sheltered housing team leader Brian Meadows. The play focuses on the life of Judy Harris, a fictional RCT Homes tenant from the Cynon valley, played by local actress Christine Tuckett. Tenants can also access advice and support on the day after the play with the dedicated information stand that RCT Homes will provide. Tenants will be able to get free financial advice, money saving tips, free benefit health checks and time to chat to RCT Homes housing officers and welfare debt advisors on any money issues, privately and confidentially. Brian Meadows, sheltered housing team leader and star of A New Coat, said: “We performed this play back in September in Pontypridd and it went down so well that we decided to take it on tour to the communities in RCT. “We want to work with our tenants to tackle the problems of financial exclusion that can arise in our communities. “Many people fee that there is no alterative to borrowing from illegal money lenders but that’s not true and by using Sound as a Pound, along with the performance of A New Coat, tenants can understand the options available for Judy, and for anyone in that situation.” He added: “The free event will also be a useful for tenants to attend to find out if they are eligible for any benefits and to access the right money saving advice. “The team of housing officers and welfare debt advisors will be able to guide tenants through the options to getting the right support and solutions to any money worries they have.” The Sound as a Pound day will take place from 1pm to 5pm on Tuesday 16 February in St Mairs community day centre, Seymour Street, Aberdare. The play will start at 1.30pm. This event is free and open to all – refreshments will be available. For more information please contact RCT Homes on 08453 014141.

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FLOURISH HOMES TO HOST RESIDENTS’ QUESTION TIME
04 February 2010

Residents are being given the opportunity to ask the big questions to the people who run Flourish Homes and the Aster Group. The Residents’ Question Time event will give residents the chance to quiz a special panel, which will include Flourish Homes managing director Alan Brunt, director of customer services Chris George, Aster Group chief executive Bjorn Howard, and director of finance Karl Pott. Shepton Mallet and Surrounding Hamlets (SMASH) tenant forum chair Nigel Strudwick, who is part of the group of tenants that has organised the event, said: “This is your chance to ask the big questions to the top people about the Aster Group and Flourish Homes’ policies and methods. “You’ll meet lots of other tenants and hopefully we’ll be able to interest you in getting more involved with the forums and Flourish Homes and the work it does.” The Residents’ Question Time will take place on Thursday 4 March at The Swan Hotel, Wells, from 7pm to 9pm.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
04 February 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Villages Housing is seeking a Community Development Officer, based in Oldham, salary £20,525. For more information, go to northwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: February 8. CIH in Scotland is seeking a Head of Policy & Public Affairs. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing Date: February 12. Helena Partnerships is seeking a Research & Performance Advisor, salary £25,500 – £27,000 pa. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 12. Berwickshire Housing Association is seeking a Financial Inclusion Officer, £26,592 - £29,235. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: 12 noon on February 5. Rural Stirling Housing Association is seeking a Housing Services Manager (Depute Director). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: noon on February 15. TENDERS Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8. Hebridean Housing Partnership is inviting tenders for its Approved Contractor List. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 26. West Dunbartonshire Council is inviting tenders for a Lead Consultant . For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 15. 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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JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
05 February 2010

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NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES SCHEMES FOR SOUTH GLOS
05 February 2010

People living in Cromhall and Falfield look set to benefit from two new affordable housing developments. South Gloucestershire Council has revealed that plans are underway to create new affordable housing in the two villages, as well as provide a new permanent building for Cromhall Village Shop and Post Office. The authority is teaming up with two housing associations for the developments, Knightstone Housing Association for housing to be built at Orchard View in Falfield, and Western Challenge Housing Association for housing and a new shop building at Townwell in Cromhall. Councillor Matthew Riddle, executive member for community care and housing, said: "Housing affordability in rural locations continues to be an issue in many parts of the country, including South Gloucestershire. "This is why council officers and I have been working with the Falfield and Cromhall communities to facilitate a small amount of affordable housing for local people on two council-owned sites. "The Cromhall scheme envisages a permanent home for the village shop and post office, which are currently housed on the site in a Portakabin, alongside some affordable housing units for locals. "In Falfield, the idea is to build on an existing garage site in return for providing some much-needed additional parking closer to residents' homes." In total the projects are expected to cost approximately £580,000. The majority of funding is hoped to come from the Homes and Communities Agency, with Knightstone also providing some of the money needed. South Gloucestershire Council is providing the land for the two developments plus £140,000 to help with parking improvements and to cover the cost of the new Cromhall shop. The housing associations and South Gloucestershire Council have been consulting with the two communities, which set to benefit from the developments, as well as district and parish councillors.

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TWO RIVERS HOUSING SECURES IIP STANDARD
05 February 2010

Two Rivers Housing has announced that it has been awarded the Investors in People Bronze standard in recognition of its people management practices. Two Rivers was assessed against the Investors in People profile framework of good practice. The framework provides further challenges for housing associations as it looks beyond the standard IiP framework. This gives an indication of how good Two Rivers is in certain areas and what areas need to be focused on to improve people management. The housing association was assessed against four of the 10 profile indicators and achieved the following ratings: Business Strategy – level 4 Learning and Development Strategy – level 2 People Management Strategy – level 4 Leadership and Management Strategy – level 2 Amanda Gould, HR advisor, said: "I'd like to thank everyone within Two Rivers for helping us achieve this positive accolade. “It's an excellent acknowledgement of our developing 'people first' culture and our ongoing commitment to learning and continuous improvement."

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SANCTUARY HOUSING INVESTS IN APPRENTICESHIPS
05 February 2010

Kate Chester, researcher for the National Housing Federation (NHF), has visited the head office of the Sanctuary Group to learn more about the organisation’s apprenticeship programme. Ms Chester’s visit formed part of the NHF’s research project, funded by the National Apprenticeship Service, which aims to analyse the level of engagement that registered social landlords (RSL) are having with these trainees. It also coincides with the Government’s national apprenticeship week, which runs until February 5 and was established to celebrate the talents and skills of apprentices across England. As part of the visit, Ms Chester met with current Sanctuary apprentices to hear their experiences first hand and also learned about the group’s ambitious plans to create further schemes across the country. Sanctuary is investing in a new UK-wide apprenticeship programme, which will help provide support to different business operations across the group. Successful candidates will take part in specially designed programmes, which will give them the opportunity to study for practical qualifications and gain on the job experience whilst building their confidence and self esteem. Sanctuary’s Group chief executive, David Bennett said: “Sanctuary is committed to providing employment and training opportunities which allow people to achieve their full potential and our apprenticeship programmes are one of the ways we can achieve this.” Sanctuary will be working in partnership with other local organisations over the coming months to create further apprenticeship schemes.

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CLWYD ALYN TENANTS TO HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE
05 February 2010

Tenants, residents and leaseholders of Clwyd Alyn Housing Association are taking a greater part in shaping the future of the association and are part of a new partnership agreement. Clwyd Alyn recently signed a new partnership agreement with the Federation of Clwyd Alyn Tenants, Residents and Leaseholders Associations and has pledged to treat all tenants and residents as customers, putting them at the heart of all future policy decisions which affect the services the association provides. Clwyd Alyn community involvement officer, Gareth Hughes-Roberts said: "The main aim of the community involvement strategy is to treat our tenants, residents and leaseholders as customers and to place the needs of our customers at the heart of everything we do, by way of delivering quality services. “We see the signing of the partnership agreement as an important mile stone along the path to achieving this." The federation has also played a prominent role working with Staff on drafting the new Community Involvement Strategy, in line with recommendations made by the Welsh Assembly Government. Ms Belinda Fisher, chair of the Federation of Clwyd Alyn Tenants, Residents and Leaseholders Associations, added: “The partnership agreement will ensure that input from our tenants, residents and leaseholders will help drive forward improvements to the services our landlord provides.”

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SHAL HOUSING OFFERS PAID EMPLYMENT TO STUDENT
05 February 2010

A Bridgwater-based social landlord is advertising a new job with a difference. Due to expansion, SHAL Housing is looking for a new junior member of staff, but the post is to be combined with a degree course run by the University of the West of England. SHAL’s chief executive, John Thomson said: “Many young people are deterred from undertaking a degree because of the spectre of debt but with our job the student will get paid, get practical experience and take a degree. “We have an opportunity to help one person get qualifications and experience and so we have taken it.”

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
05 February 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Villages Housing is seeking a Community Development Officer, based in Oldham, salary £20,525. For more information, go to northwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: February 8. CIH in Scotland is seeking a Head of Policy & Public Affairs. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing Date: February 12. Helena Partnerships is seeking a Research & Performance Advisor, salary £25,500 – £27,000 pa. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 12. Berwickshire Housing Association is seeking a Financial Inclusion Officer, £26,592 - £29,235. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: 12 noon on February 5. Rural Stirling Housing Association is seeking a Housing Services Manager (Depute Director). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: noon on February 15. TENDERS West Dunbartonshire Council is inviting tenders for a Lead Consultant . For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 15. Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8. Moray Housing Partnership is inviting tenders for a Internal Audit Services. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 19. Hebridean Housing Partnership is inviting tenders for its Approved Contractor List. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: February 26. 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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