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JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
01 March 2010
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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR NEW BOARD MEMBERS?
01 March 2010
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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.
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SOUTH WEST SUPPORTED HOUSING MONTH
01 March 2010
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As local authorities throughout the South West are considering their budgets for the coming financial year, organisations that provide crucial services for vulnerable people here are joining forces for a month-long awareness raising campaign from today.
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Throughout March, South West Supported Housing Month 2010 is raising the profile of services that range from foyers for young people, temporary accommodation for families, refuges from domestic violence and sheltered and extra care housing for older or disabled people.
It will see housing associations, local authorities, and a variety of other organisations run events to showcase the work that they do.
There are already over 30 events organised, with many more in the pipeline.
South West Supported Housing Month 2010 follows on from the success of last year’s campaign, and is again being coordinated by the National Housing Federation.
Around 650 organisations provide over 2,800 services in the South West, supporting around 103,000 vulnerable people here every day. These services enable the most vulnerable members of our communities enjoy more independent and fulfilled lives.
The vast majority of these services are commissioned by local authorities and, until last year, they were paid for through ring-fenced Supporting People grants from central government. The ring fence has since been removed, giving local authorities more power to determine which services they buy in to meet the needs of vulnerable people in their area.
During Supported Housing Month we are taking the opportunity to remind those responsible for commissioning these services that they bring not only personal benefits for the people they support, but also significant savings to the public purse. Research from the Department for Communities and Local Government shows that every pound spent on Supporting People saves £2.12 on other public services.
Myriam Kniveton, chair of the National Housing Federation’s South West Supported Housing Forum, said: “South West Supported Housing Month runs throughout March this year and is an excellent opportunity for providers to join forces in the south west and highlight the contribution supported housing and support services make in the region.
“It will help to demonstrate the money that is being saved to other public services, as outlined in CLG’s Capgemini report.
“With the removal of the ring fence around Supporting People funding, it is vitally important that commissioners, MPs, stakeholders and councillors are fully aware of the contribution that the sector is making in supporting and improving the lives of so many individuals in communities throughout the region.”
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SECOND HOMES HIT ALL-TIME HIGH IN SOUTH WEST
01 March 2010
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The number of second homes in England reached an all-time high in 2009, with the South West dominating the table of second home hot-spots, according to research by Knight Frank.
A 2.6 per cent increase on the 2008 figure equated to an additional 6,212 second homes pushing the overall total to a record 245,384.
The top English second home hot-spots in 2009 were contained in the South Hams local authority – which include locations like: Dittisham, Kingswear and Salcombe. Nearly one in 10 homes in the South Hams district are registered as second homes.
In North Cornwall, Berwick-upon-Tweed and North Norfolk similar second home ratios (above 9 per cent) are recorded.
In the City of London nearly a quarter of all residential units are classified as second homes, with nearly 8 per cent in Kensington & Chelsea (representing almost 7,000 units).
Liam Bailey, head of residential research at Knight Frank, said: “The number of second homes in England has been steadily rising over recent years.
"The recession and credit crunch saw this trend falter in 2008 – when the total fell by 912 (or 0.4 per cent). The recovery in 2009 – with an additional 6,212 English second-homes, marked a return to long-term growth.
“The demand for UK second homes supported the surprise success story of the house-building market in 2009, when new-build second home investments saw very strong demand – especially in markets like Newquay in Cornwall.
“Looking forward to 2010 our view is that growth in demand ought to continue – but the potential growth in second home numbers will be determined by the supply of properties for sale – early indications this year suggest that supply in the main second-home hotspots is still 20 per cent below the long-term average.”
Meanwhile, Cornish MPs have been pressing the government to make sure second home owners pay their share of taxes.
Liberal Democrat MPs Andrew George and Julia Goldsworthy said second home owners reduced their bills by letting out their properties.
That meant they paid business rates rather than council tax, and local authorities were missing out.
They said a local income tax would be fairer because people who own two properties would have to pay tax twice.
Mr George said: "It's not a personal issue. It's the politics of social justice, not the politics of envy.
"Many people who own second homes and who have a social conscience actually are aware of this and agree with the points.
"There are chronic housing problems in these areas and the existence of second home ownership can only have a detrimental impact on the life chances and life choices of local families who are desperate to find a decent home of their own."
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MILESTONE FOR SEREN GROUP REGENERATION SCHEME
01 March 2010
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Demolition work is getting under way on the old shopping precinct at Blenheim Square in St Dials, Cwmbran, south-east Wales, as part of a £7 million regeneration scheme.
The event is a significant milestone in the project to transform the neighbourhood with 53 new homes for sale, affordable rent and affordable home ownership.
The new development is called Blenheim Chase and is being driven by a partnership of the local business community and residents, local housing organisations Fairlake and Charter Housing – both part of Seren Group – Torfaen County Borough Council and housing regeneration developer Lovell.
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Picture: (left to right) Kamran Gouran and Sia Niamir from Blenheim Stores; Fairlake chair John Evans; Lovell regional director Nick Kurobasa; Cllr Robert Wellington, Leader of Torfaen County Borough Council; Cllr Gwyneira Clark, Torfaen Council executive member for housing.
A specially adapted 24-tonne excavator is being used by Lovell to systematically demolish the external structure of the precinct’s old shops. That will allow the installation of infrastructure and services to be carried out in the spring ready for work on the second phase of housing to begin later this summer.
A special event to mark the demolition of the old precinct was attended by Torfaen councillors and officers as well as representatives from Fairlake and Lovell. Guests also included the owners of the general store and the hair salon formerly based at the precinct which have just moved into purpose-built new premises - built through the regeneration project – to the south of the old shopping square.
Rhidian Jones, Fairlake’s home ownership manager, said: “We are pleased to be able to offer further quality homes for both affordable rent and sale through the Help2Own scheme.
“Blenheim Chase is a superb development located in a much sought-after area in Cwmbran, the new homes will go some way towards helping meet the clear need for affordable homes in Torfaen and in particular provide much needed assistance for first-time buyers wanting to buy their first home.”
So far, the first phase of the regeneration has seen the creation of 13 new homes, including eight properties for sale, two bungalows for affordable rent and three bungalows for affordable home ownership.
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TWO RIVERS HOUSING WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS
01 March 2010
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Two new independent board members have taken up their official duties with Two Rivers Housing, bringing with them knowledge and experience in business sectors including communication, auditing and business management.
David Powell is a director of resources at Herefordshire Council and brings a wealth of experience to the board.
Alan Blundell is a former senior manager in local government, with extensive audit and change management experience who now works as a freelance management consultant.
They will add to the shared vision of Two Rivers Housing and help guide the organisation into 2010 and the next phase of growth.
In 2009, Two Rivers Housing undertook a board of management review which saw the number of independent places rise from four to six and the retention of four tenant places and two local council seats.
David Garnett, chair of the board, said: “These appointments further strengthen the Board and are part of our vision for excellence in governance."
Garry King, chief executive of Two Rivers Housing, added: "We are looking to the future. Bringing more independent skills, knowledge and experience to our board of management will benefit us and strengthen the strategic leadership of the organisation."
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NSHOUSING RAISES MORE THAN £4,000 CHILDREN’S HOSPICE
01 March 2010
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NSHousing has raised more than £4,000 for Children’s Hospice South West.
Back in January 2009, staff at NSHousing voted the hospice as its charity for the year.
Picture: Becky Dugdale with staff and friends handing over a cheque at the hospice in Wraxall.
After a year of fundraising, which included guessing the time on a clock, cream teas and car washing, staff and tenants raised a total of £4,113.
Becky Dugdale, who was one of those to nominate the charity and who also took a key part in the fundraising, said: “It was a real team effort and everyone has been really generous.
“It makes it easy when it’s for such a good cause and we are only pleased that we have been able to help in some small way.”
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
01 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
Barrow Borough Council is seeking a Community Involvement Manager, salary £24,646 to £28,636 p.a. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: March 1.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Chief Executive based in the North East, salary £108k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 15.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
TENDERS
Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8.
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 March 2010
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REGIONAL HOUSING PARTNERSHIP CALLS FOR MORE NEW HOMES
02 March 2010
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Latest figures show that only 13,840 new homes were built in the South West in 2009, well short of the number needed to cope with the increasing number of households in the region.
The region’s number of completed new homes fell by 22% from the previous year, and was well below the average of around 18,000 a year being built earlier in the decade.
Meanwhile, the South West is creating the demand for more than 25,000 new households every year.
The region’s growing housing-gap has been highlighted by the South West Housing Initiative, a unique partnership of house-builders, housing associations, housing professions, and employers – created to address the fact that the South West has the country’s biggest housing crisis.
South West Housing Initiative chairman, Richard Kitson, acknowledges that the fall was a consequence of the recession but urges that the trend must be reversed quickly.
He said: “There has been heated debate about the new planning strategy for the Region, focused on whether we need 25,000, 27,000 or 30,000 new homes each year: but we are a long way from achieving even the lowest of those figures.
“Right now, we are losing ground in helping people who desperately need a home. If the region is to rebuild a strong and vibrant economy, then employers need people who can afford to live in the region.”
Another recent report showed that only about one third of people under 40 living in the South West could get onto the home-ownership ladder – and this is a reflection of the homes shortage.
The one positive to come out of the latest statistics was that the number of new affordable homes, mainly for rent, was almost as many as the previous year at 2,850.
However, Mr Kitson said that while the South West’s economy is poised for growth, he warned that that potential will collapse if local workers cannot find or afford a local home.
He explained: “This region’s local communities, and their local councils, must grasp the fact that opposition to new and affordable home-building will consign them to isolation, with key-workers in both public and private sectors unable to find a home.”
The recent South West Housing Summit, staged by the South West Housing Initiative, underlined the need for the region to increase supply of new homes and called for additional investment in infrastructure and affordable housing to help sustain the local economies.
Mr Kitson added: “We have to convince South West residents that a continuing shortage of homes will drive away the people they need to provide all the services they expect, such as teachers, nurses, and carers, as well as those who sustain the region’s businesses, including people in leisure and tourism, shops, and farming.”
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TAMAR HOUSING SOCIETY RETAINS IIP STATUS
02 March 2010
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Plymouth-based housing association, Tamar Housing Society has retained its Investor in People status after undergoing a review.
The report found that Tamar had continued to develop and improve since the IIP standard was achieved three years ago.
The report stated “A revised vision and set of values gives the organisation a clearer ethos and purpose.
“Particular strengths and areas of good practice noted included clear and effective leadership with an open and inclusive style of management supported by a strong and supportive board.
“The organisation employs a committed group of people with a strong sense of involvement with their residents”.
Tamar Housing Society’s chief executive, Julie Barnett said: “I am pleased to have overseen the improvements recognised by the assessor. Tamar is a well governed organisation, committed to excellent customer service.”
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GCH SUPPORTS SUPPORTED HOUSING MONTH
02 March 2010
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Gloucester City Homes (GCH) is taking part in South West Supported Housing month.
GCH has joined together with the National Housing Federation and other providers throughout the South West to shout out about these vital services during South West Supported Housing Month, which runs throughout March.
During the month, events are taking place in all of GCH’s sheltered housing schemes, ranging from arts and craft classes, Wii fit clubs, Easter activities and outings.
Supported housing helps some of the most vulnerable people in our community live fulfilling and rewarding lives through providing a wide range of services.
Gloucester City Homes has a team of 11 scheme managers and two relief managers who deliver a wide range of support services to our elderly residents within its ten sheltered housing schemes.
The team also visits elderly residents living in Gloucester City Council properties in their local communities.
South West Supported Housing Month is aiming to raise the awareness and profile of the good work carried out in the supported housing sector in the region. In the South West alone, the sector provides more than 2,800 services to nearly 103,000 vulnerable people.
GCH supported housing manager, Diana Wilks said: “All our sheltered housing schemes offer a number of regular activities and events to our sheltered housing customers and elderly people from the community.”
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MERLIN RESIDENT HIT WITH LEGAL BILL
02 March 2010
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A Yate resident is facing a bill for £1,300 in court costs after he repeatedly ignored his landlord’s requests to carry out important gas safety checks at his property.
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Merlin Housing Society spent two months trying to contact the resident to arrange a date to inspect the gas appliances in his Celestine Road home.
But it was only after he received a letter saying that a court date had been set that the tenant got in touch and allowed Merlin to service the gas appliances.
Merlin head of property services, Mark Haines said the housing society only went to court as a last resort.
He said: “As well as sending letters, our surveyor visited the property several times, including in the evening and at the weekend, to try to speak to the resident. We put stickers on his door asking him to get in touch but we heard nothing.
“We have a legal obligation to service all gas appliances in our residents’ homes every year. But after two months trying to contact the resident we were left with no option but to go to court to try and gain entry to the property.
“Although the resident got in touch with us before the court date we had incurred legal expenses in preparing for court and so we asked for these costs to be passed onto the tenant, which the court agreed.”
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SOVEREIGN TWYNHAM SAYS ‘NO’ TO DRUGS
02 March 2010
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Sovereign Twynham has been actively working with Dorset Police involving a house where residents have been accused of drug abuse.
The housing association prides itself on working with local partners to build safer communities where people want to live.
A recent success has seen Dorset Police Officers seize herbal cannabis ‘skunk’ with a potential street value of £23,000, also resulting in a custodial sentence for the person involved.
A Suspended Possession Order, which encourages the resident to amend their ways, has now been granted by the courts and served on a resident living on the Somerford estate, Christchurch. The resident was convicted and sentenced to 10 months imprisonment for drug dealing.
Marion Franks, managing director of Sovereign Twynham, said: “Nobody wants to live in an area blighted by drugs and other anti-social behaviour.
“We take all forms of antisocial behaviour extremely seriously, especially when it involves drugs and will work in partnership with the Police and Courts, to help make our neighbourhoods pleasant areas to live.”
Sovereign Twynham hopes that this case will act as a stark warning to other residents. As part of this, they will proactively target all forms of anti-social behaviour including drug abuse, and respond appropriately.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
02 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Chief Executive based in the North East, salary £108k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 15.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
TENDERS
Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8.
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 March 2010
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SPOTLIGHT
03 March 2010
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SOMER COMPLETES TEMPLE CLOUD ECO HOMES
03 March 2010
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The latest affordable homes for rent to be developed by Somer Community Housing Trust may reap a big dividend for residents, following a government announcement on renewable energy generation.
The homes at Temple Cloud, along with others just completed at Berkeley Gardens in Keynsham, feature photovoltaic solar panels, generating electricity that can be used in the home.
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Picture: (left to right) Cllr Tim Warren (Mendip Ward) and Cllr Vic Pritchard, executive member for housing at Bath and North East Somerset Council join Richard Simon from Solar Sense, who supplied the solar panels, and Angela Gascoigne, managing director of Somer Community Housing Trust, at the new homes in Goldney Way, Temple Cloud.
The new ‘feed-in tariff’ (FITs) which takes effect from 1st April, is expected to see energy companies pay residents for each unit of green energy they generate in their home.
This means that as well as saving money on their bills in the first place, the residents may receive a ‘cash back’ payment which could run into hundreds of pounds.
The properties are the first developed by the trust to meet Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.
As well as the photovoltaic roof panels, which create electricity from the sun’s energy, they have increased insulation, and energy-efficient heating.
All of these measures mean the homes are more environmentally friendly, energy efficient and cheaper to run – code 4 homes generally have 44 per cent lower carbon dioxide emissions over ‘standard’ housing.
At Temple Cloud the homes were built on several sites, replacing old blocks of garages. In total, there are four two-bed and two three-bed houses, and a two-bed bungalow at Fieldgardens Road, Goldney Way and Ham Close. An additional 12 community parking spaces have also been created, as a direct result of consultation with local residents and ward councillor Tim Warren.
At Berkeley Gardens in Keynsham, 40 unattractive and underused garages were in need of repair. Eighteen have been demolished and replaced with community parking spaces, making space for two new bungalows; the remaining 22 are being refurbished. Bungalows are in acute demand in the area, and both have been adapted by the council for disabled residents with full-time carers.
Angela Gascoigne, the trust’s managing director, said: “These schemes typify everything a responsible social landlord should be about – developing truly affordable homes where people want to live.
“We’re excited about the government’s new scheme, which will directly benefit residents.
“Although it’s a greater level than we are required to build to as a housing association, we are determined to reach this environmental standard wherever we can in future.”
Both schemes were built by Russell Construction. The properties are let at affordable rents to people who are nominated through Homesearch, Bath & North East Somerset Council’s waiting list for affordable housing.
The funding for the schemes came from the Homes and Communities Agency (£363,000), Bath & North East Somerset Council (£363,000) and Somer Community Housing Trust, which owns the properties (£575,000). The total cost was £1.3million.
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TOP MARKS FOR STAFF TRAINING AT TWO RIVERS HOUSING
03 March 2010
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Members of Two Rivers Housing's planned maintenance team have undertaken intensive two and three-day training courses to improve their knowledge and understanding on solid fuel heating systems.
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The HETAS Solid Fuel awareness course offers comprehensive coverage of key issues surrounding solid fuel heating in the home.
The course covered areas such as health and safety, open fires and chimneys as well as the maintenance of various systems including free standing appliances and inset room heaters.
Jenny Lamb, planned maintenance coordinator, said: “The course was both informative and useful, and all the knowledge we've learned can be applied directly back to the work we do as a social landlord in the maintenance and upgrade of solid fuel heating systems.
“We have 800 homes currently using solid fuel appliances and it's important, as an organisation, that we keep up to date with the latest HSE and Building regulations to help keep our tenants homes safe."
Ms Lamb received 100 per cent on a two-day course, while senior surveyor Rob Lane received 96 per cent on the three-day course.
Amanda Gould, HR advisor, added: "Two Rivers has adopted a people first culture, so investment in our staff is key to the success of the organisation.
“Continuous improvement is vital to ensure that we keep our knowledge and skills at the forefront of the housing industry so we can provide the best possible service and support to our tenants."
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LOVELL APPOINTS WALES AND SOUTH WEST DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
03 March 2010
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Affordable housing and regeneration group Lovell has appointed Jon Matthews as business development manager for Wales and the South West.
Jon Matthews
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Mr Matthews joins the company from the Cardiff office of property consultants King Sturge where he was partner for residential developments.
In his new role, based at the Lovell office in Cardiff, he will build on the company’s strong presence in Wales and the South West, identifying further opportunities for land acquisition and for partnership working with registered social landlords and local authorities on major community regeneration projects.
His new appointment brings him back to the company where he began his construction career, Lovell having sponsored him through his BSc (Hons) degree in Building Technology Management.
After graduating, he spent five years with Lovell before holding senior land management roles with Bovis Homes, Redrow Homes and Redcliffe Homes.
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WEYMOUTH & PORTLAND HOUSING RESIDENTS GIVE BLOCK A MAKEOVER
03 March 2010
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Weymouth & Portland Housing residents have teamed up to give their block a makeover.
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The residents in the block got talking one day and decided that the entry hall was looking a little sad and could do with a make over.
They decided to ask their landlord if they could paint the communal areas outside their apartments.
WPH housing officer, Sally Leslie, arranged for the residents to be given colour charts, so they could choose their own colours. WPH then bought the paint and brushes.
She said: "As residents take more care of their surroundings they feel a place is their own.
"They are all very close and get on really well. They are really proud of their block and decided they could make a difference."
Christian Blackbeard, WPH housing manager, added: "People need to come out from behind their doors and get involved.
“A few changes can make enough of a difference to both the look of a place and to residents' attitudes and act as an incentive to do more."
Resident Tom Beaver said: "I don't think we did a bad job at all. It used to look worn and now it's not. We chose the colours and it doesn't feel like someone else's property now."
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MAGNA ENCOURAGES VOLUNTEER GROUP’S ACTIVITIES
03 March 2010
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Dorset Volunteer Bureau is to receive a £2000 donation from Magna Housing Association as the local housing association recognises their contribution to the community.
Magna Housing Association’s head of neighbourhood services, Karen Allan said: “This is such a worthwhile cause and one that we wholeheartedly support.
“I know a number of our residents are already regular volunteers and I am hoping we can increase that number by working in partnership with the Volunteer Centre.”
The local organisation constantly encourages volunteering activities and community projects.
Jim Hart from the centre added: “We are very pleased that Magna has decided to make a donation to us.
“Being a volunteer gives you a real sense of achievement, seeing something happen in the community because of you.
“It helps people to make new friends and often you learn new skills. So long as you have the interest and enthusiasm to do it, you can only gain from it.”
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
03 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Chief Executive based in the North East, salary £108k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 15.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
TENDERS
Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8.
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 March 2010
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NATIONAL AWARD FOR WESTERN CHALLENGE HOUSING OFFICER
04 March 2010
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Annette Heather, neighbourhood housing officer for Western Challenge Housing Association, part of Spectrum Housing Group, has won the National Neighbourhood Justice BTEC Student of the Year Award 2009.
Annette Heather
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Annette is one of three people to have won this award. In addition to the prestigious title of National Neighbourhood Justice BTEC Student of the year the winners will participate in a five-day, all expenses paid, study visit to New York, USA in February 2010.
The purpose of the visit is to research and compare neighbourhood justice approaches, in the UK and NYC under the stewardship of the New York Mayors Office.
The winners will be based at the internationally renowned John Jay College of Criminal Justice, NY and have full access as a student to the extensive Lloyd Sealy Library.
The student will also have pre-arranged access to staff from all community partners working in anti social behaviour and restorative justice in the Bronx district.
The research project findings will be presented to the Home Secretary for consideration and published in Safety Net Associates’ Student Learning Zone online research library.
Annette said: ”I am delighted to have been chosen for this award and prestigious prize. I look forward to seeing for myself first hand and comparing how anti social behaviour is approached and managed in New York.”
Although the original intention was that there would be only one winner, the sheer volume and quality of applications meant that the judging panel has selected three winners. The applicants were asked to evidence how their qualifications have been applied to their communities and organisations.
The winners were Annette Heather of Western Challenge Housing Association, Lucie Venables of Mid Sussex District Council and Kelly Vincent of the British Transport Police.
Safety Net Associates are the providers of the first and only National Programme of BTEC Qualifications in ASB Case working and Approaches to Restorative Justice.
Bob Kennett, academic director of Safety Net Associates, said: “Because of the wide range of organisations our student body represents it was difficult to condense the applicants to only one winner. The judging panel therefore decided to award three winners.
“These winners should be very proud of what they have achieved not only in this competition but also in their communities. It is very encouraging to see that these qualifications are further empowering practitioners from a range of backgrounds to tackle anti social behaviour in the communities they serve.”
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‘UNCERTAIN PROSPECTS’ FOR WEST SOMERSET HOUSING SERVICE
04 March 2010
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The strategic housing service provided by West Somerset Council is “poor” with “uncertain prospects for improvement”, according to an independent report released today by the Audit Commission.
On a scale from zero to three stars, the Audit Commission inspection team gave the service a poor, zero-star rating.
This is because services are not always focused on the needs of customers. Vulnerable people, such as those living in temporary accommodation or in unsuitable or poor housing, do not receive a good service. And the number of new homes built, especially affordable housing, is not meeting needs.
Kieran Colgan, the Audit Commission’s lead housing inspector for the South West, said: “Since our last inspection there have been some significant improvements in the strategic housing service.
“While this is positive, service quality still falls below the standard that local people expect and deserve.
“The council now has a clear focus on improving the service but it needs to do more with partner organisations to turn its ambition into a reality.”
To help the service improve, inspectors recommended the council improve the focus on customers by, for example, improving telephone answering and ensuring all local people can access services easily; improve the quality of the service’s plans; and make better use of the existing housing, for example, by improving its energy efficiency.
Copies of the report are available from West Somerset Borough Council or on the Audit Commission website at www.audit-commission.gov.uk.
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REGENERATION FUNDING BOOST FOR BARRY
04 March 2010
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Jocelyn Davies
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Jocelyn Davies AM, Deputy Minister for Housing and Regeneration, has announced that Barry is to become the seventh Strategic Regeneration Area (SRA) in Wales with a £9 million investment from the Welsh Assembly Government.
The town will benefit from a co-ordinated, long term, holistic approach to regeneration, using best practice procedures pioneered in the Heads of the Valleys programme and the Mon a Menai initiative.
The announcement will maximise the regeneration potential of housing initiatives in the area and of the opportunities from the proposed £12bn investment in the Defence Training Centre and Aerospace Business Park at St Athan.
Making the announcement at Barry dock, Ms Davies said: “This is excellent news for the people of Barry who will see huge improvements to their town over the coming years.
“The plan will address a number of key issues and will reflect the main regeneration needs and opportunities in the area.”
The SRA Action Plan for Barry will focus on three key themes to build and sustain vibrant communities, by breaking the cycle of deprivation, addressing the skills supply, and tackling economic inactivity:
Integrating private and public sector housing construction and refurbishment programmes. This links housing policies, energy efficiency and renewables agendas to fully realise the potential of investment in education, skills and employment for individuals and businesses in the town.
Reviving and enhancing tourism, leisure and recreational activities by realising the potential of waterfront and the wider town.
Growing key business sectors and helping the town centre to make the most of the development and business opportunities created by the St. Athan project and other major business investors.
Strategic Regeneration Areas (SRAs) have been established in areas of greatest need. They are in places that offer the greatest potential to benefit areas. They link physical and community regeneration with public and private funding, in a programme of change to tackle a range of social and economic issues affecting the most deprived communities.
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GLOS CITY HOMES LAUNCHES JUNIOR WARDEN SCHEME
04 March 2010
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Gloucester City Homes has announced the launch of a second junior wardens scheme.
The new scheme is based in White City and has been set up as a result of partnership working with Finlay Community School and White City Adventure Playground.
The scheme will be launched at Finlay Community School at 3:30pm today.
The group will carry out their first estate inspection on Thursday 11 March and will take part in a programme of activities over the coming months including awareness sessions on anti-social behaviour and environmental issues.
The scheme is part of a programme of junior warden schemes planned for the city as a result of GCH’s work in partnership with community stakeholders.
The schemes are aimed at encouraging children to become more involved in their community and take pride in the environment in which they live.
Junior wardens are encouraged to show respect for themselves, their community and their environment and take ownership of the area in which they live.
A group of children from Finlay Community School has volunteered to become junior wardens. The group has chosen the name ‘Streetsteppers’ and has worked on developing their own logo to identify the scheme.
The Streetsteppers will carry out inspections within the community on a regular basis to identify and report issues such as fly tipping, graffiti, litter dropping, vandalism to bus shelters and play areas and untidy gardens.
They will also be able to give us ideas on how to improve the local area for example more lighting, dog bins. It is hoped that the children will encourage friends and family to take more care of the community.
Lisa Howarth, GCH head of customer services and community investment, said: “I’m delighted to support a second group of junior wardens in Gloucester. The Street Steppers at Finlay Community School are excited about becoming involved in their community and looking forward to seeing the results of their inspections in the neighbourhood.”
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TENANTS TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON OPEN SPACE IN THE CYNON VALLEY
04 March 2010
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Tenants from Fernhill and Penywaun will have the chance to make decisions on what happens to the areas of open space in their community as part of RCT Homes’ Open Spaces Audit.
When the housing organisation took over ownership and management of over 10,500 homes in Rhondda, Cynon and Taff from the council it also inherited some of the open spaces in and around the communities.
Catryn Grundy and community development worker Helen Boggis
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In the Cynon valley area these spaces of land are made up of a range of uses, including leftover green areas and spaces surrounding streets that have previously had no specific purpose.
In February tenants from Fernhill and Penywaun were invited to the first stage of the decision-making process, which is a pilot project that will extend to the whole of Rhondda, Cynon Taff.
Consultants for RCT Homes fed back results from their survey which looked at existing access to open space in the Fernhill and Penywaun areas, the quality of the space and how well it was used as well as a combination of social factors including tenant participation levels, health, employment and car ownership.
The tenants who attended the meeting were then able to give their views on access to land in Fernhill and Penywaun and what they feel is lacking.
RCT Homes will then take this on board for the next stage, which will include a full-blown survey of open spaces in the valleys and ideas for ways to improve and make the most of these areas.
Existing open spaces in the Fernhill and Penywaun include a lack of private space and communal activity space.
RCT Homes has committed to spending around £10 million on improving open spaces throughout Rhondda Cynon Taff.
This work will be alongside the Neighbourhood Options process where RCT Homes will work with tenants to look at options for developing community engagement activities in these areas.
Catryn Grundy, tenant empowerment officer, said: “The aim of this process is to make the most out of available land and create really useable open spaces that communities can enjoy using.
“By consulting with local tenants right at the beginning we can work together to make the best use of available space and create areas of public space that will be central to the community.
“We are really looking forward to the next stage where tenants get to decide what the space is used for.”
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
04 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Chief Executive based in the North East, salary £108k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 15.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Property Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 15.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Housing Assistant (Temporary). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
TENDERS
Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8.
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 March 2010
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CORNISH MP CUTS TURF AT PENWITH HOUSING SCHEME
05 March 2010
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Cornish MP Matthew Taylor, chair of the National Housing Federation, has cut the first turf at the start of the building of 40 new homes on the Roseland peninsula.
Penwith Housing Association, along with Devon and Cornwall Housing Association (DCHA), are building the homes in partnership with Rok Construction.
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The homes, earmarked to meet local needs, should be completed in October. The total cost of this rural housing scheme will be nearly £4 million. There will be 23 for rent, seven for low cost ‘Homebuy’ shared ownership and ten open market plots.
Mr Taylor said: “There are many people living and working in the local shops, businesses and schools, carers and people providing other essential services who need to live locally but cannot afford to buy homes in their own area. Such homes as these give them their opportunity to live in their community.”
The site lies between the villages of Gerrans and Portscatho.
PHA chief executive, Andy Moore, added: “The development of this site for affordable homes is particularly important because, from the information received by Cornwall Council’s Affordable Housing Team, Gerrans parish has the highest level of unmet housing need of all the parishes on the Roseland.”
The scheme has been supported by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), which provided nearly £1.5 million in grant aid along with Cornwall Council who provided £400,000. The remainder of the cost is met by the association’s own resources.
Colin Molton, South West regional director and national lead on rural policy for the HCA, said: “Affordability is a major issue facing our rural communities.
“We want to ensure that these communities are sustainable and continue to thrive, and rural affordable housing plays a vital role in this.
“We are delighted to have been able to work with Penwith Housing Association (PHA) and Cornwall Council to invest in the future of this community.”
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GLOS CITY HOMES TO HOLD OPTIONS ROADSHOWS
05 March 2010
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Gloucester City Homes is running a series of events across the city to provide local residents with practical support and advice on a range of employment and training matters.
Gloucester City Homes is working hard to provide real opportunities and support for local residents, along with other local housing providers Oxbode Housing and Gloucestershire Housing Association.
The Options Road Show events are being held in partnership with a number of organisations including Gloucester Works, Gloucester City Council’s Welfare Benefits Team and Job Centre Plus.
The purpose of the road show is to help people find their first job or get back into work and understand how their benefits may be affected by taking up training and employment opportunities.
The event will also offer tips on how to apply for jobs and be successful at interview and get more involved in their community.
GCH executive manager for organisational development and diversity, said: “Gloucester City Homes is committed to working with partners across the city to provide employment and training opportunities and support to our tenants and residents. This is just one of the many ways we are seeking to do this.”
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SOVEREIGN TWYNHAM RESIDENTS OPEN NEW COMMON ROOM
05 March 2010
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Sovereign Twynham has officially opened a new communal area for its residents at Priory Court, Christchurch.
Sovereign Twynham has kept a promise to its sheltered housing residents at Priory Court by turning an empty ground floor flat into new communal rooms.
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In consultation with the residents, the newly refurbished communal rooms now have a brand new kitchen, new carpets and WC.
There is a seating and dining area and a small library of books and jigsaws for residents to borrow which were generously donated by Strete Mount, another sheltered housing scheme, to get things started.
Marion Franks, managing director at Sovereign Twynham, said: “This project shows a great example of listening to our residents and what they need. I am sure they will be very proud of their new common room and facilities and enjoy using them for many years to come.”
The residents have been looking forward to the opening of the new communal rooms and the opportunity to meet with friends for coffee mornings, afternoon teas, the odd game of bingo and other events.
Mrs Lowe, who has lived at the scheme since it opened in 1974, cut the ribbon to officially declare the new rooms open.
Priory Court is one of 43 sheltered housing schemes owned and managed by the Sovereign Housing Group, and provides 21 self-contained bedsits for the over 55s.
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VULNERABLE PEOPLE BECOME REPORTERS
05 March 2010
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A magazine written and produced by vulnerable people who have been homeless is being distributed to 15,000 readers across England.
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The editorial team was made up from national supported housing provider Stonham’s clients from Plymouth with the help of their peers in other parts of the country.
The Mag was launched on Thursday 25 February and features real-life stories, poems, celebrity interviews and thought provoking articles. It has the iconic Smeaton Lighthouse on its front cover.
Daniel Lee Lewis, of Harwell Street, Plymouth, 18, has been supported by Stonham since August 2009 and he played a major role in writing and editing the magazine.
He said: “The whole process of putting this together has taught me about the importance of persevering. There’s been a lot of hard work involved and it has been stressful at times especially researching articles and making deadlines.”
One of his articles was about his experience when he became a Big Issue seller for a day.
He said: “Being a Big Issue seller for the day was really an eye opener. I started off wanting to write about how the street sellers annoyed me but I ended up very sympathetic to them.
“People I know in Plymouth who normally acknowledge me ignored me the moment I began selling The Big Issue.
“People who have read the article say they now treat Big Issue sellers more respectfully and realise it’s a tough job.”
Project worker, Sue Hawley, who helped co-ordinate The Mag, added: “It’s been fascinating to learn just how much work goes into making a magazine.
“Some people involved dropped out but those who stuck with it to the end should be really proud of what they have achieved.
“My highlight was seeing The Mag roll off the press at the printers. It felt like a real triumph for everyone involved.”
Along side clients’ poems are articles on how being active and outdoors can help boost mental well-being. There’s also an interview with former Stonham client turned actor, Lewis Barnshaw, who is from Plymouth and had a role in a Harry Potter film.
It is also available as an audio recording and a large print version making it available to as many readers as possible.
The next edition of The Mag will be produced by clients from Northampton with contributions coming in from Stonham services across the country.
The Mag highlights the importance Stonham puts on getting clients involved and giving them as many opportunities as possible to express themselves.
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A FOOT ON THE CAREER LADDER AT RCT HOMES
05 March 2010
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David Shroll has his foot on the ladder of a brand new career at RCT Homes following some soul searching on the beaches of Australia.
David Shroll
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Mr Shroll, 25, from Abertillery, started at the housing organisation this February in the newly created role of IT helpdesk supervisor.
The need for this role was identified after RCT Homes recognised a real demand for full time helpdesk support for staff throughout the organisation, freeing other members of the ICT team up to focus on projects.
Last year, after spending six years working as a Council Tax Officer in Cardiff Council, Mr Shrotook some time out with his partner to backpack around America, Fiji, New Zealand and Australia.
He was contemplating relocating to Australia before the recession hit and he returned home keen to embark on a career in IT.
He said: “I knew that to get my IT career going I needed to start with helpdesk support. This role is basically the way into the industry and you learn all the basics at this level. The first few weeks have been a great challenge – IT doesn’t change from organisation to organisation but the systems do and within RCT homes there are systems for housing teams that take a lot of understanding.
“This role at RCT Homes is a real opportunity for me to launch my career and I am keen to get as much experience as possible. I am hoping to gain a qualification in helpdesk management to support this.”
Alun Dowling, head of ICT at RCT Homes, added: “A helpdesk supervisor is a very customer focused role and David’s experience in this area shone through in the interview. His enthusiasm and notable skills in IT support fits well with the role’s requirements.
“Since starting at RCT Homes David has fitted in well with the team and we are looking forward to helping him develop over the coming months.”
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
05 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Chief Executive based in the North East, salary £108k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 15.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Property Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 15.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Housing Assistant (Temporary). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
TENDERS
Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8.
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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NEWS 
