TENDER: INTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES
08 February 2010

Tender for Internal Audit Services Moray Housing Partnership Moray Housing Partnership is a Registered Social Landlord based in Lossiemouth and serving most of the Moray region. It owns and manages just under 500 general needs units. We are currently tendering for our internal audit services. This will initially be for a three year period with the possibility to extend this to six years. We are seeking tenders from audit companies with internal audit experience within the RSL sector. If you wish further information or want to receive the tender documents sent to you, please contact Michaela Munro on 01343 543210 or michaela@morayhousingpartnership.co.uk. The closing dates for tenders will be 19th February and we plan to interview prior to the end of February. The period of appointment will commence on 1 April 2010, however we may ask that some work be carried out in March if this is mutually convenient. Moray Housing Partnership is a registered charity operating under Scottish Charity number SC 031841 Registered office Clifton Road, Lossiemouth. Moray, IV31 6DJ. Registered with the FSA under the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965 (No2567R(S)) and the Scottish Housing Regulator No: 325. Further Links:

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REGENERATION SCHEME BRINGS NEW HOMES AND JOBS
08 February 2010

The £5 million regeneration project to rejuvenate part of Penhill has brought not just new homes and shops to the area, but new employment and training opportunities for 25 local people too. Swindon Borough Council and Westlea Housing, part of the GreenSquare housing group, are working in partnership on the Braydon Court redevelopment project, to include three new shops and 38 affordable homes. Building work began there last April and almost half the new homes are now occupied. A new McColls convenience store opened in October and the two remaining retail units are expected to be open in May. The affordable housing is a mixture of 31 properties for rent, which will be advertised on the council’s choice based lettings system, and seven homes for ‘part rent, part buy’, or shared ownership. A notable aspect of the construction process at Braydon Court has been the launch of GreenSquare’s ‘4ward2work’ initiative; this is designed to link with each of the housing group’s new development schemes and sets targets for the use of local labour and the offer of apprenticeships. Phil Bowley, head of regeneration for GreenSquare, said: “4ward2work will ensure that tackling worklessness is always prioritised as part of our construction process and result in many new opportunities for local people. “Already at Braydon Court, 25 local people have worked on the construction of new homes. And looking ahead, over the next three years we hope to offer 92 labour places, 24 one-day business training places, 48 one-day basic health and safety training for local communities, and 21 apprenticeships through our ongoing development programme. “Launching the scheme as part of our work at Braydon Court seemed ideal as that project is so obviously about more than just new shops and homes. It is about breathing new life into the neighbourhood, and we’re proud to be part of that process.” Councillor David Renard, Swindon Council cabinet member for health, housing and adult social care, added: “I am really pleased this project is coming together and residents are already enjoying living on the new site. “We have worked hard to improve the facilities in Braydon Court and I’m sure it will be of great benefit to the community when the whole scheme is finally completed in the coming months.”

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FHM WINS TWO RIVERS DECENT HOMES CONTRACT
08 February 2010

Community regeneration group Frank Haslam Milan (FHM) is celebrating the start of the New Year with Two Rivers Housing, after securing a £2.7 million refurbishment contract. FHM, which forms part of the Keepmoat group, has been selected to bring 121 properties in the Forest of Dean up to the Government's Decent Homes Standard. Ian Goodridge, senior surveyor from Two Rivers Housing, said: "We are committed to providing quality affordable homes to meet the needs of our residents and the feedback we've received so far is extremely positive. “ It's an exciting time for both organisations as we work together to bring cornish-style PRC properties up to the Government's Decent Homes standard. “Ultimately we hope that these improvements will make the homes warmer and more energy efficient and consequently more comfortable for our residents." The construction firm will focus on carrying out external works such as fitting new windows and doors, roofing and rendering works to non-traditional Cornish properties. The improvement work will take place over 40 weeks in Sedbury, Lydney and Broadwell in Gloucestershire. FHM aims to create a number of new jobs and apprenticeship schemes as part of the contract, and will invest in the community by using a local supply chain. FHM's site manager, Richard Darlow added: "We are thrilled to win this contract which demonstrates FHM is continuing to expand, despite the economic climate. "This is the first time we've worked with Two Rivers Housing, and we hope it will open up further opportunities to work with them in future. "FHM is also planning to create at least three new trades' jobs through this contract and we have already taken on a Tenant Liaison Officer from Wales so there are plenty of opportunities coming up."

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BRISTOL SEEKS TO BRING EMPTY HOMES BACK INTO USE
08 February 2010

With over 12,000 people on the housing waiting list, Bristol City Council is currently reviewing its activities in order to increase the number of empty properties brought back into use each year. There are over 7,000 empty properties in Bristol at any one time and 1,800 of these are classified as long-term empty – empty for more than six months. An Empty Property Summit was held in Bristol on January 22 with a range of key agencies which have an excellent reputation for bringing empty properties back into use. These included the Empty Homes Agency; National Association of Empty Property Practitioners; Cardiff City Council; National Landlords Association; Homes4Bristol and representatives from Bristol City Council’s Council Tax; Housing Solutions and Private Housing Services. Over the next few months the city council will be re-launching its approach to tackling empty properties. This is likely to include Improving advice and guidance to owners; better marketing and publicity for the assistance that is available; and better use of a multi-faceted approach that includes enforcement. Councillor Mark Wright, cabinet member for housing and service improvement, said: “It's totally disgraceful that homes lie empty while there are so many families without a proper home. Property owners have a social responsibility to put empty properties to use as quickly as possible. “I am confident that our combined approach of offering better advice and help to property owners, while also getting tougher with those who are unco-operative, will see a reduction in the number of empty properties over the next year. "Our investigations have shown a new phenomenon resulting from the recession - this is that some property developers are deliberately leaving significant numbers of properties in a not-quite-finished state so as to avoid them being classed as 'empty homes'. “By doing this they avoid paying Council Tax after six months and also avoid 'empty homes' legislation. This is very unwelcome behaviour, and the council will be taking action to persuade such developers to finish these homes properly and put them to good use." Empty Homes Agency chief executive, David Ireland added: “We very much encourage the efforts Bristol is making to bring empty homes back into use in order to help people in housing need.” Bristol is now actively pursuing the use of Empty Dwelling Management Orders (EDMOs) which are used where all other means of bringing a property back into use have failed. A private agent has now been appointed to manage these properties, when an EDMO is granted, with the costs of management being paid for by the rent.

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MID-WALES HOUSING HELPS RESIDENTS REDUCE BILLS
08 February 2010

A Welsh housing association is running an energy saving initiative which will result in some 370 homes benefiting from cavity wall insulation and loft insulation top-ups. Newtown-based Mid-Wales Housing Association, which owns and manages around 1250 properties in Ceredigion and Powys, has completed approximately 150 houses as part of the programme. Jenny Esslemont, asset management coordinator with Mid-Wales Housing, said: “The average savings based on a three bedroom semi-detached house are around £120 per year for cavity wall insulation and up to £160 for loft Insulation. “Just by fitting low energy light bulbs to every outlet it is possible to save £40 annually. “As well as making financial savings the carbon emission of each dwelling also falls considerably. “We will continue to investigate ways in which we can improve the carbon efficiency of our properties – especially older houses and flats which were built to different building regulations.” The association is working partnership with Wall-Lag, a sister company of Snowdonia Windows, and the cavity wall insulation has been fully funded by a utilities company as part of its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. The loft insulation has been subsidised by Mid-Wales Housing itself. Aidan Ackerman, director of technical services at Mid-Wales Housing, added: “During the recent cold snap tenants of those houses where we have been able to fit new insulation to wall and lofts will have felt the benefits of much warmer homes which will have needed a lot less energy to keep them warm.”

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Barnet Homes is seeking an Area Housing Manager . For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: February 19. 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. Pierhead Housing is seeking a Housing Director, salary £50,722 - £56,357 p.a. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 23. 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. 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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JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
09 February 2010

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TENDER: INTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES
09 February 2010

Tender for Internal Audit Services Moray Housing Partnership Moray Housing Partnership is a Registered Social Landlord based in Lossiemouth and serving most of the Moray region. It owns and manages just under 500 general needs units. We are currently tendering for our internal audit services. This will initially be for a three-year period with the possibility to extend this to six years. We are seeking tenders from audit companies with internal audit experience within the RSL sector. If you wish further information or want to receive the tender documents sent to you, please contact Michaela Munro on 01343 543210 or michaela@morayhousingpartnership.co.uk. The closing dates for tenders will be 19th February and we plan to interview prior to the end of February. The period of appointment will commence on 1 April 2010, however we may ask that some work be carried out in March if this is mutually convenient. Moray Housing Partnership is a registered charity operating under Scottish Charity number SC 031841 Registered office Clifton Road, Lossiemouth, Moray IV31 6DJ. Registered with the FSA under the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965 (No2567R(S)) and the Scottish Housing Regulator No: 325. Further Links:

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NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES FOR SWINDON TOWN CENTRE
09 February 2010

Jephson Homes Housing Association has completed a development of 20 affordable new homes for rent in Swindon town centre. Demand was so high for the one- and two-bedroom apartments in Aylesbury Street that all homes have been let. The new apartments in Aylesbury Street, Swindon The new development, which is just a short distance from the town’s main line railway station, attracted £1.3 million grant funding from the Homes and Communities Agency and contributes to the regeneration of Swindon town centre. Jephson worked closely with gcp architects and contractor E.G.Carter & Co. Ltd in developing the site and the scheme received strong support from Swindon Borough Council. Emma Hardman, senior development officer at Jephson, said: “The development in Aylesbury Street has provided much needed affordable new homes for Swindon, as well as contributing to the regeneration of the area. “All apartments are occupied and the feedback we have received from the new residents has been extremely positive.” The contemporary apartments feature generous-sized rooms with large glazed areas and a number of sustainable features.

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CASH BOOST FOR ST AUSTELL ECO-TOWN
09 February 2010

Cornwall is to get £9 million to help get its eco-town project off the ground as part of a £60 million Government cash boost for more than 600 new ‘green’ homes to be built in and around the country’s four planned eco-town sites. The Department for Communities and Local Government said the houses would feature water-saving systems, smart meters to monitor energy use, renewable power and electric car charging points. The cash will also go to boosting energy efficiency of schools in the areas, including a new ‘eco-standard’ sixth form at one institution, improving public transport and setting up biomass projects to develop green energy. The funding will be split between the four new environmentally friendly settlements which got the go-ahead last year: Whitehill-Bordon, Hampshire; North West Bicester in Oxfordshire; Rackheath, Norfolk; and St Austell in Cornwall. The money will be used to create a number of "carbon-neutral eco-show homes" around St Austell to give residents an example of green living. Some houses will also be given a green makeover featuring water-saving systems and smart meters to monitor energy use. There will also be renewable power and electric car charging points. In addition, cash will go towards boosting energy efficiency of schools in the areas. St Austell was named in July as one of four areas chosen by the government to have eco-towns. In November, the clay company Imerys announced Baal Pit and West Carclaze would be the locations for up to 2,000 new eco-homes. The project will eventually involve properties being built at five separate locations around the St Austell area. DCLG said the construction of the new homes would support up to 2,000 local jobs, while introducing thousands of people to the benefits of green living. Most of the houses will be for sale, with a third of them affordable homes, although some will remain as permanent "eco-show homes". Housing Minister John Healey said the announcement marked the start of the country's "biggest ever eco-home building programme". He said: "By 2016 there will be 10,000 new eco-homes in these four pioneering areas. This means people will be able to experience green living for themselves and see how it can change their lives and save money. "But green living isn't just about homes. That's why this cash will also help transform local schools and create new transport links and energy sources. "By the time the eco-towns are finished green living will already be a way of life for these communities."

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HOUSING MINISTER ANNOUNCES EMPTY HOMES SUPPORT
09 February 2010

The Government has announced extra support for councils in the South West to step up efforts to get empty homes back in use and reduce anti-social behaviour. John Healey Empty homes, particularly those in disrepair, can be a magnet for vandalism, drug-taking, gangs or other forms of anti-social behaviour. Torbay Council is to employ a new Empty Homes Officer and target their attention at their 68 worst properties, most of which have been empty for more than 10 years. Cornwall Council will develop an empty homes strategy and appoint a coordinator together with a training programme for staff to increase skill levels and enable long-term empty homes to be tackled. Councils already have tough legal powers to force private landlords to sort out their properties and can even take over properties if necessary, but tenants and landlords often don't know about these powers, reducing their effectiveness. Housing Minister John Healeyhas announced a £1 million boost to council efforts to train key staff on how best to get empty homes back in use, with cash for 17 councils where anti-social behaviour focused around empty homes is a real concern and residents want to see more effective local action. The main response for councils will be through frontline workers and specialist teams with the expertise to lead the crackdown. This will include action to renovate derelict houses for letting out as social homes, and the use of private funding to turn empty homes into properties that allow local people the chance to take a more affordable step onto the housing ladder. The new funding is part of the Government's drive to take action against empty homes and the anti-social behaviour associated with them. It will give councils the support they need to take real action to address a highly visible problem affecting the quality of people's day-to-day lives.

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‘HELPING HANDS’ CAMPAIGN AGAINST DOMESTIC ABUSE IN BRISTOL
09 February 2010

Safer Bristol and Bristol NHS Public Health team have joined forces to encourage people to get involved and report it if they suspect domestic violence and abuse is happening. With Valentine’s Day approaching – a traditional day for celebrating love and appreciating our partners – the ‘Helping Hands’ campaign will take to the streets of Bristol on Friday 12 February at locations across the city. Stalls will give away free keyrings and tips and hints on signs and symptoms of domestic violence and abuse, and where to go for help and advice. Visitors to the stalls can also cut out a hand print and write up their message of hope for the future. The day will end with a quiz at the Bristol Rovers Memorial Stadium. Lesley Welch, domestic violence strategy coordinator for Safer Bristol, said: “Domestic violence and abuse is a crime which affects 1 in 4 women in Bristol. “It affects teenagers in their first relationships as well as older people. Someone we know is experiencing domestic abuse in their relationship now, and we can support them to get help.” In 90 per cent of cases of domestic violence where children are involved, they are in the same or the next room. Two women every week are killed by abusive partners. Amy Campbell, senior health promotion specialist for Bristol NHS, added: “Even if someone isn’t ready to go to the police, there are agencies in Bristol and anonymous telephone helplines where they can get support.”

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NEW CAREER FOR CLWYD ALYN RESIDENT
09 February 2010

A young woman from a supported living scheme in Rhyl has just taken up the challenge of forging a new career for herself in the army. Keely Roberts, aged 20, has been living at Y Dyfodol, a scheme for homeless young people, managed by Clwyd Alyn Housing Association, part of the Pennaf Housing Group. Picture: Keely Roberts is pictured, right, talking through options with army representatives at a conference for residents of supported living schemes organised by Clwyd Alyn Housing Association in Wrexham last summer. At Y Dyfodol, young people are given individual support by staff and encouraged to look at a number of training or employment options. Keely successfully applied to join the Army and has been allocated a vacancy as a potential clerk in the Royal Logistics Corp. She signed the oath of allegiance in the army recruitment office last week and has now started her initial training at Pirbright. Clwyd Alyn life skills coordinator, Vivien Edwards said: “Keely has worked hard at developing skills during her time with us, and has shown a real determination to succeed in the right setting. We are very proud of her and wish her every success.”

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Barnet Homes is seeking an Area Housing Manager . For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: February 19. 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. Pierhead Housing is seeking a Housing Director, salary £50,722 - £56,357 p.a. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 23. 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. 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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JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
10 February 2010

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TENDER: INTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES
10 February 2010

Tender for Internal Audit Services Moray Housing Partnership Moray Housing Partnership is a Registered Social Landlord based in Lossiemouth and serving most of the Moray region. It owns and manages just under 500 general needs units. We are currently tendering for our internal audit services. This will initially be for a three-year period with the possibility to extend this to six years. We are seeking tenders from audit companies with internal audit experience within the RSL sector. If you wish further information or want to receive the tender documents sent to you, please contact Michaela Munro on 01343 543210 or michaela@morayhousingpartnership.co.uk. The closing dates for tenders will be 19th February and we plan to interview prior to the end of February. The period of appointment will commence on 1 April 2010, however we may ask that some work be carried out in March if this is mutually convenient. Moray Housing Partnership is a registered charity operating under Scottish Charity number SC 031841 Registered office Clifton Road, Lossiemouth, Moray IV31 6DJ. Registered with the FSA under the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965 (No2567R(S)) and the Scottish Housing Regulator No: 325. Further Links:

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FORMER PUB SITE TO FLOURISH WITH NEW HOMES
10 February 2010

Somerset housing provider Flourish Homes handed over a Taunton pub sign to the museum service as new homes are built on the site of the former hostelry. Time was called on the Denmark Inn before plans were put forward in 2007 to raze the boarded up building and construct nine family homes in its place, helping to tackle the shortage of affordable housing in Taunton. Picture: Aster Group's Caroline Howlett, Flourish Homes managing director Alan Brunt, head of museums Steve Minnitt and Brookvale Homes managing director Clive Brown with the Denmark Inn sign. The pub sign as taken down by developers Brookvale Homes before work started and is being donated to Somerset County Council’s museum service. The county council’s head of museums, Steve Minnitt was on hand to take charge of the sign from Flourish Homes’ managing director, Alan Brunt. Five three-bedroom and four four-bedroom homes are being constructed on the Cheddon Road site, all built to Code for Sustainable Homes level 3. This means the three storey homes will have good energy and sound insulation and will be fitted with solar panels to heat hot water. Kitchens will come with a built-in recycling bin to help tenants easily sort waste while gardens will be provided with a compost bin, water butts to collect rainwater and a garden shed for extra storage. Mr Brunt said: “It’s always sad when businesses close down but this site did provide an ideal opportunity to use the land to build affordable homes. “This is our first development in Taunton and we’re very pleased to be working with Taunton Deane Borough Council to help build more homes for people in need of affordable housing,” “These new family homes will be built to make sure that our tenants can do their bit for the planet and also hopefully enjoy cheaper heating bills, which will be good for their pockets too!” Councillor Hazel Prior-Sankey, executive councillor for housing services at Taunton Deane Borough Council, added: “It’s good to work with new partners to provide affordable housing which is much needed in Taunton.“ The nine homes should be finished in September when new tenants can start moving in. The homes will be rented through Homefinder Somerset, the new way that social housing in the county is allocated to those in housing need. The scheme has cost £1.4 million with £762,000 coming from the Homes and Communities Agency along with an £18,000 contribution from Taunton Deane Borough Council. The remainder comes from Flourish Homes, through the New Futures consortium, which is led by Aster Group, which develops new homes for the housing association.

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NEW AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR HAYLE
10 February 2010

Penwith Housing Association has announced that a new development of affordable homes in Hayle is well underway and expected to be completed by March this year. The Mayor of Hayle, councillor John Coombe played his part in helping the progress of six new affordable homes for rent at a new housing scheme at Kernick Way. Councillor Coombe, who is also the Cornwall councillor for Hayle South, helped lay a block at the development of two-bedroom houses, which were designed by Trewyn Design and being built by ROK construction. He said: “Many local people are in need of good quality affordable homes to rent in the town.” Councillor Coombe was joined at the event by fellow Hayle councillor, John Pollard. Also attending were PHA board members Norman Emberson and Alan Shepherd, along with chief executive, Andy Moore. Mr Moore thanked the council and the Homes and Communities Agency for their support, adding: “A record number of affordable homes have been completed in the past year but more are needed.” The homes are expected to be ready by March this year and the nominations for residents will be made by Cornwall Council.

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WORK UNDERWAY ON SPECIAL SWANSEA HOUSING SCHEME
10 February 2010

A new housing scheme in Swansea could be offering younger adults with complex physical disabilities the independent life they have been asking for by the late spring. Swansea Council social services has teamed up with its health partners to develop a tenancy project which will give physically disabled people the chance to leave residential care for a home of their own. Now the scheme has won the backing of Swansea Council's Cabinet and it could be welcoming its first residents within months. The Cwmfelin Care and Support scheme aims to enable them to move to accommodation with the layout, equipment, care and 24-hour support designed for their individual needs. Six units including flats and bungalows are being developed as part of a new 130-home social housing scheme being built on the old Cwmfelin steelworks site. Agreements are being drawn up to provide 24-hour on-site personal care and tenancy support for six residents with complex physical disabilities under the age of 65 in the properties. Most will be aged between 20 and 40. Gwalia Care and Support will be providing the care within the scheme and are now assisting with preparation of tenants. As the tenants already have funding entitlement/packages in place the aim is to provide the scheme without additional budget demands. Swansea Council Social Services has been working with representatives from Health, Supporting People and Coastal Housing during the last two years to develop a specification for the scheme. Councillor Nick Tregoning, Swansea Council's cabinet member for social services, said: "People have been telling us that they want to live as independently as possible within the community but, because they have complex disabilities, this can be both very difficult and potentially very costly to provide. "This scheme represents a cost effective way of providing increased independence to a group of tenants who would otherwise be in a residential or nursing home because of the services they need. "By working together in partnership we are now on the verge of having a development in which they could live more independently, make their own decisions about how they want to live with our support and enjoy being part of their community. "If the scheme is a success, the local authority and its partners would look to develop similar schemes elsewhere in the city."

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CHURCH ENDS FREE MEALS FOR HOMELESS
10 February 2010

A church has stopped serving meals to the homeless because it is claimed there are virtually no rough sleepers left in Torbay. In its February newsletter, Central Church announced that it had stopped its monthly lunch service after the Leonard Stock Centre for the homeless in Torquay confirmed there were very few homeless living rough. Rev Glyn Millington said: "When we started there was a much larger problem of homelessness in Torquay. Over the years we have had 20 to 40 homeless attending on a regular basis. "However, it has become apparent to us over recent months the people attending were mostly not in that situation. "The Leonard Stock Centre for the homeless in Torquay confirmed there were indeed very few living on the streets of Torquay, and that as well as providing accommodation its aim was to teach residents to be self-sufficient. It would prefer they were not provided with a free lunch at Central Church." He added: "It's good news that there are fewer people living on the street in Torbay. Since the centre opened it has made a positive change to the lives of homeless people and it's good to see they are less reliant on handouts." Sarah Pengelly, manager of the Leonard Stock Centre, said the centre had helped reduce that number to no more than two or three. She said: "We used to work with up to 24 homeless people in Torbay. Since the centre opened we've worked hard to be creative with people and find a solution to their problems. "Housing is not always the first issue or need for homeless people so we try to put them in contact with social services, drug and alcohol and mental health services as well as find private or council accommodation for them." The Leonard Stock Centre opened in August last year. It has 24 en-suite rooms as well as showers and laundry service. It also offers breakfast and food to the homeless. Mrs Pengelly added that the churches in the Bay and the Shekinah Mission had helped the homeless over the years and helped make the centre what it is now. John Hamblin, chief executive of the Shekinah Mission, said: "There is some really exciting work going on in Torbay. "We have made some huge steps around the inclusion agenda. A few years ago there were more than 20 rough sleepers around Torbay now that is down to two or three."

NEW COMMUNAL GARDEN FOR SOMER RESIDENTS
10 February 2010

Residents of Somer Community Housing Trust’s sheltered housing scheme at Mountain Wood in Bathford are having a new, communal garden built right outside their homes. The idea for the garden came from one of the residents, John Flemming, and is being created with help from volunteers from Connaught Partnerships Ltd and students at Norton Radstock College. Residents have been involved throughout, finalising the plans and choosing the planting. The trust awarded the project a Neighbourhood Impact Grant of £1,400, which is paying for the materials. Trust staff from the better spaces, community investment and sheltered housing teams helped organise the project. The garden will consist of a patio area and four raised flower beds, which are being laid out to echo a Union Jack flag theme. Residents will then be able to grow a mixture of flowers, plants, fruit bushes and vegetables. A priority for the garden is that it is accessible for all, whatever their ability, and is wheelchair friendly. Mr Flemming said: “It is lovely to see that people are still willing to volunteer to make our lives more pleasurable, as many residents here can't get out and about. “The garden will give us something attractive to look at, and an easy-to-maintain amenity, outside in the sunshine. “I think all the Somer and Connaught staff and students have been marvellous and their efforts are very much appreciated.” Kevin Connell from Norton Radstock College's Horticultural Department designed the garden. He said: “We are pleased for the opportunity to work with the local community. Our students are able to gain valuable experience, practise their landscaping skills and leave the community a better place.” Connaught Partnerships Ltd assisted the project through the provision of a team to help complete the huge amount of work required. Stuart Borthwick, Connaught gas manager, added: “Connaught is always looking for ways in which we can support the community in addition to our contracted works with Somer Community Housing Trust and the creation of a communal garden for Mountain Wood was the perfect opportunity. Once completed, we hope this will provide a welcome facility for the residents of Mountain Wood.”

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Barnet Homes is seeking an Area Housing Manager . For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: February 19. 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. Pierhead Housing is seeking a Housing Director, salary £50,722 - £56,357 p.a. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 23. 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. 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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JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
11 February 2010

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TENDER: INTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES
11 February 2010

Tender for Internal Audit Services Moray Housing Partnership Moray Housing Partnership is a Registered Social Landlord based in Lossiemouth and serving most of the Moray region. It owns and manages just under 500 general needs units. We are currently tendering for our internal audit services. This will initially be for a three-year period with the possibility to extend this to six years. We are seeking tenders from audit companies with internal audit experience within the RSL sector. If you wish further information or want to receive the tender documents sent to you, please contact Michaela Munro on 01343 543210 or michaela@morayhousingpartnership.co.uk. The closing dates for tenders will be 19th February and we plan to interview prior to the end of February. The period of appointment will commence on 1 April 2010, however we may ask that some work be carried out in March if this is mutually convenient. Moray Housing Partnership is a registered charity operating under Scottish Charity number SC 031841 Registered office Clifton Road, Lossiemouth, Moray IV31 6DJ. Registered with the FSA under the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965 (No2567R(S)) and the Scottish Housing Regulator No: 325. Further Links:

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SYNERGY HOUSING LAUNCHES WALTON COURT
11 February 2010

The venerable Geoffrey Walton has opened Synergy Housing Group's new affordable housing development at Montrose Drive, Verwood. Mr Walton officially unveiled a plaque on the new block of flats, which has been named 'Walton Court' in honour of his dedicated service to Synergy, in particular as chair of East Dorset Housing Association. Mr Walton was joined by former and current members of the East Dorset Housing Association board together with members of the Synergy board, and representatives from the town and district councils, residents of the new scheme and staff from Synergy to mark this special occasion. The £3m development, jointly funded by grant from the Homes and Communities Agency and by Synergy, provides 10 new houses and 18 flats built to the highest quality and environmental standards and let to people nominated by East Dorset District Council at affordable rent levels. Ernie Battey, Synergy Housing's chair, commended Mr Walton for his vision and leadership which had seen an additional 1000 homes provided for individuals and families in housing need across Dorset. He commented that he had been instrumental in creating the enlarged Synergy Housing Group. Mr Walton said: “It is a great honour to have such a splendid and attractive development named after me – and whilst I’m still alive. “It is a great example of what East Dorset Housing Association and Synergy Housing have always stood for since their inception, building good quality, well designed, practical homes for local people. “Although I was chairman I was supported by a great team of board members and dedicated professionals.”

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NEW VICE CHAIR FOR MAGNA HOUSING ASSOCIATION
11 February 2010

The board of Dorchester-based Magna Housing Association has elected a new vice chair, Anne-Marie Vincent. Anne-Marie Vincent The change has come about following the retirement of former board chair, Ray Bugler, whose place was taken by the then vice chair, Ian Bullock. Ms Vincent said: “I am thrilled to have been appointed to the position of vice chair. “I believe passionately in social justice and in the South West it is getting harder and harder for people to afford to buy their own homes. I want to make sure that we provide as much housing as we can for people in this area and that it is of a high standard. “My whole reason for being is to make a difference to people’s lives and I firmly believe that in this role I can make that difference by improving the places where they live.” Ms Vincent brings with her a wealth of experience. Much of her time was spent in a senior policy role at the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) in London where she was able to influence both MPs and cabinet ministers. When the CRE closed in September 2007, she chose to move to the south west because of family connections and set about working just as hard as ever for worthy causes in the area. Ms Vincent is a familiar face out and about in Dorset. She is chair of the South West Multi-cultural Network, co-chair of the Dorset Forum for Equality and Diversity, director at Bridport and West Dorset Sports Trust, school governor at two schools and is involved with the Local Area Partnership at Bridport. Ms Vincent added: “I have been very impressed by the staff I have met at Magna, they truly believe that our customers, including our residents, are at the heart of everything we do. “I hope that over the coming years I hear our residents say more and more often that they are proud to be a Magna tenant.”

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RADIAN ‘INVESTS IN PEOPLE’
11 February 2010

Radian has sought to gain group-wide accreditation to the Investors in People (IiP) standard. Using IiP’s new progressive approach, Radian is embedding this vision in all aspects of its business, which is helping the organisation learn and grow. Radian, a provider of social housing, care and support in the South East of England, demonstrated to IiP that the company reflects good practice over and above IiP’s core standard. IiP found that the values of the organisation, “Choice, Opportunity and Trust”, have clearly been grasped. Assessors also reported that Radian’s vision, “where people flourish”, encourages people to be involved at the heart of the organisation with suggestions that improve performance. Lindsay Todd, Radian’s chief executive, said: “Radian is a people business aiming to deliver high quality services to the communities and individuals who we serve. “The IiP process is an important, independent tool to help us ensure that we are providing the necessary environment to facilitate this.” Radian’s Learning and Development Academy is one of the areas praised by IiP, who found that the range of facilities provided for staff to improve and progress is considerable. This facility offers a variety of learning styles and circumstances, and enables a flexible approach for staff to get the necessary development they need, and aspire to. Peter Wakefield, Radian’s organisational development manager, who established the academy and co-ordinated the IiP assessment, added: “We are very pleased that we chose to take up the challenge of group-wide accreditation as we have learnt a lot throughout the process. “Whilst we are happy that we have exceeded the core IiP standard, receiving feedback on how staff are working, developing and engaging is always the most interesting part. IiP’s recommendations for development will be extremely valuable to us.”

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TRAINEE PLUMBERS JOIN CLWYD ALYN TEAM
11 February 2010

Clwyd Alyn Housing Association is working in partnership with Llandrillo College to support three female trainee plumbers helping them to back-up their college work with direct work experience. The three trainees, Emma Sampson, from Llandudno, Rebecca Jones, from Bodelwyddan, and Kayleigh Smith, from Llandudno, are all on a three-year course at Llandrillo College, Rhos-on-Sea, with an option to do an extra year taking a Gas NVQ. At present they are on the final year of their Plumbing NVQ. Picture: (left to right) Dean Jones, Clwyd Alyn plumbing and heating engineer and mentor for trainees; Emma Sampson, trainee plumber, Rebecca Jones, trainee plumber and Kayleigh Smith, trainee plumber and Nigel Blackwell, Clwyd Alyn plumbing and heating engineer. The three have already spent two weeks working with Clwyd Alyn’s maintenance team, including a day running new sink wastes in properties in Connah’s Quay, and also working with the maintenance team on basic plumbing jobs such as changing taps and fitting new toilets and basins. They have also spent some time shadowing gas maintenance work to see if they wish to take up this further option for extra study. Each of the trainees spend placement weeks with Clwyd Alyn throughout their course, and will return for a 12-month placement next September if they decide to continue on the Gas NVQ course. Clwyd Alyn head of maintenance, Nigel Roberts said: “There is no reason why young women should not be as equally able as young men to train as plumbers and as Clwyd Alyn is keen to invest in retaining craft skills in the area, we were more than happy to work with Llandrillo by providing work experience opportunities for female trainees.” As well as providing work placements for the three female trainees, Clwyd Alyn Housing Association, which manages more than 5,000 housing units across North and Mid Wales, also mentors adults who are re-training for careers in plumbing and heating. Dean Jones, Clwyd Alyn plumbing and heating engineer, acts as training mentor for the three trainees during their placement. He added: “The girls have been absolutely spot-on. Each of them have done a really good job on their placements and our customers’ reactions have been very positive.”

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GLOS CITY HOMES RESIDENTS’ VIEWS COUNT
11 February 2010

One of Gloucester City Homes’ customers has won £200 in a quarterly prize draw. Mrs Emery’s winning card was pulled out from all the ‘Your Views Count’ cards sent in since November 2009. GCH customer services officer, Kelly Jordan presented Mrs Emery of Oliver Close, Tuffley with a certificate to mark her prize. Mrs Emery was delighted with her unexpected win and plans to treat herself to some new spectacles. The ‘Your Views Count’ cards are customer satisfaction/feedback forms used to identify where Gloucester City Homes can improve their services. Customers mark their scores and add any comments on the postage paid card and return it in the post. Gloucester City Homes is continually trying to improve its services and customers’ opinions are an extremely important part of this process. Lisa Howarth, head of customer services and community investment, said: “GCH strives to improve services as a result of customer feedback. “The ‘Your Views Count’ card offers an easy and fast way for our customers to give feedback on key services directly after they have been received. “We listen to and value our customers feedback ensuring that where possible we incorporate all suggestions received into future service improvements.”

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Barnet Homes is seeking an Area Housing Manager . For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: February 19. 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. Pierhead Housing is seeking a Housing Director, salary £50,722 - £56,357 p.a. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 23. 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. 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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JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
12 February 2010

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TENDER: INTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES
12 February 2010

Tender for Internal Audit Services Moray Housing Partnership Moray Housing Partnership is a Registered Social Landlord based in Lossiemouth and serving most of the Moray region. It owns and manages just under 500 general needs units. We are currently tendering for our internal audit services. This will initially be for a three-year period with the possibility to extend this to six years. We are seeking tenders from audit companies with internal audit experience within the RSL sector. If you wish further information or want to receive the tender documents sent to you, please contact Michaela Munro on 01343 543210 or michaela@morayhousingpartnership.co.uk. The closing dates for tenders will be 19th February and we plan to interview prior to the end of February. The period of appointment will commence on 1 April 2010, however we may ask that some work be carried out in March if this is mutually convenient. Moray Housing Partnership is a registered charity operating under Scottish Charity number SC 031841 Registered office Clifton Road, Lossiemouth, Moray IV31 6DJ. Registered with the FSA under the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965 (No2567R(S)) and the Scottish Housing Regulator No: 325. Further Links:

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NEW BRISTOL CARE HOME IS SET IN STONE
12 February 2010

Chescombe Trust has held a stone-laying ceremony to mark the start of construction to develop a new purpose-built care home in the Patchway area of Bristol. Construction company J & S Seddon Building Ltd is building the facility for the trust, a voluntary organisation, which provides care, support and accommodation for adults with learning difficulties. Picture: (left to right) Geoff Major and Andrew Mitchell of Seddon, Chescombe Trust benefactor Eric Maxwell, Kevin Johnson, the trust’s executive manager, and David Andrews the trust’s chairman. The new development, project managed by Bristol-based Graham Rivers Architects, will provide accommodation in three separate buildings for 19 adults with learning disabilities. The accommodation will consist of self- contained bed sitting rooms all with en suite bathrooms and some with personal cooking facilities. The service provided will range from supported living to registered care. Kevin Johnson, executive manager of Chescombe Trust, which is rated as a 3-star excellent service by the Care Quality Commission, said: “The building of the new care home is a great step forward for us. “It has been specifically designed to match the needs of the individuals in our care, rather than us having to match the needs of the building, as is the case with the premises we are in at the moment. “The new development will also enable us to increase the number of people we support from 13 to 19.” J & S Seddon Building will undertake the work from the company’s regional office in Wotton-under-Edge. Andrew Mitchell, J & S Seddon Building’s regional manager, added: “This is a great project for us and will deliver a centre geared up to the needs of the service users. “The project will involve between 12 and 15 operatives working on site at any one time. We anticipate that the work will be completed in July 2010.”

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TWO RIVERS DEVELOPMENT IS BUILT FOR LIFE
12 February 2010

Two Rivers Housing’s redevelopment of the landmark old Cottage Hospital in the heart of Ledbury, has been awarded Building for Life Silver Standard. This prestigious award is run by the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment and the Home Builders Federation with Design for Homes. Picture: (left to right) Richard Fellows & Robin Copeland Quattro Design Architects, Roger Payne Ledbury & Area Development Trust, Garry King CE of Two Rivers Housing. Richard Finney, development manager at Two Rivers Housing, said: "We're thrilled that all our hard work and attention to detail has paid off. This site is a demonstration of the positive outcomes that can happen with a strong partnership working towards excellence. “We are proud of this regeneration project and feel it is worthy of this award. When redeveloping the old cottage hospital we took care to preserve the original features which made the building a landmark on the high street, and we're pleased that Building for Life has recognised this approach." Building for Life is a national standard for building homes and neighbourhoods and is considered by most to be an enviable award which acknowledges quality design and construction as well as the environmental impact of a development. Wayne Hemingway MBE, designer and chair of Building for Life, said: “We’re seeing a year on year rise in good quality housing schemes entered for the Building for Life awards. But there’s still a long way to go. “Building for Life is the best way for everyone to understand design quality on the same terms, so the goal of seeing good ordinary homes everywhere can become a reality.” The partnership responsible for bringing this building back to life are the Ledbury & Area Development Trust, Herefordshire Council, Advantage West Midlands, Two Rivers Housing and the Homes & Communities Agency. The project assigned architects were Quattro Design Architects.

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SWAYTHLING TO LAUNCH JUNIOR PCSO DVD
12 February 2010

Swaythling Housing Society, part of Radian, has produced a DVD to celebrate the growing success of the Junior Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Scheme. The DVD, which will be officially launched at a special screening at the Harbour Lights cinema in Southampton on February 18, illustrates the positive impact the program has had in the local community throughout Hampshire since its launch two years ago, and encourages other housing associations to get involved. The Junior PCSO Scheme was set up by Hampshire Constabulary in 2007, in Northam and Chapel developments in Southampton in response to feedback from local residents and children about issues such as anti-social behaviour and low level crime.. Swaythling Housing Society supported this with funding and securing involvement from the local residents. Swaythling, working in partnership with other housing associations, helps to fund the scheme, providing high visibility uniforms and contributing towards keeping it running. Ian Haworth, assistant director of Swaythling Housing Society, said: “It is evident that if we work together, we’ll achieve a much better outcome. That’s why working with Hampshire Constabulary and other RSLs is much more effective and we encourage other housing associations to get involved. These children are potentially our residents of the future, so it’s important to engage with them now and make them part of the community.” The short film shows the scheme at work, including the practical implications that Junior PCSO’s have on the neighbourhood and how participants learn from the experience. There are interviews with some of the children and parents, and local residents, who give their viewpoints about its effectiveness and value within the community. The DVD also captures the fun aspects of being involved, playing games and recreational activities. John McMannus, housing officer for Swaythling, added: “It raises social awareness and teaches young children about the implications of their actions; focussing on preventing abusive behaviour and property damage, and the value of having respect for themselves and others, and their surroundings.” Through involvement with PCSO’s during previous housing estate developments and youth projects, Swaythling saw a positive link between them and the community. PCSO’s interact with people in the local area, providing a visible and reassuring presence, and Swaythling recognised an opportunity for young children to benefit from similar interaction. The young volunteers meet once a week, working together to improve the local environment by litter picking, cleaning off graffiti and general care for their neighbourhood. Afterwards, there’s an opportunity for them to take part in fun, sporting activities including abseiling, rock climbing, and other outdoor games, in a safe and controlled environment. There are also regular presentations from the Fire Service and other organisations, who educate Junior PCSO’s on real life scenarios.

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SCHOOL PUPILS DESIGN GREEN HOMES OF THE FUTURE
12 February 2010

Inspired by a green housing development in their community, children from St Athan Primary School in St Athan, south Wales have designed their own energy-saving houses of the future for a competition organised by housing regeneration group Lovell and Wales & West Housing Association (WWHA). The winning designs are set to be displayed on hoardings at the development site in Gileston Road, St Athan, near Barry, where Lovell is building 16 environmentally-advanced, energy-saving houses and apartments for WWHA. The new housing, part of a Welsh Assembly pilot scheme, will be some of the greenest in Wales. Picture: The competition winners, with a cheque presented by Lovell to help fund new outdoor safety matting for a play area at the school. For the competition, pupils at the school, who have been taking a close interest in the housing project, were challenged to come up with their own environmentally-friendly home designs incorporating eco-friendly features. Youngsters were asked to design houses which use alternative sources of energy such as solar and wind power, along with other energy-saving features such as high levels of insulation. They also had to incorporate facilities for recycling into their plans. The individual winners will all receive certificates and a banner made up of their entries will be displayed on the hoardings at the construction site. Lovell, WWHA and a number of subcontractors working on the housing scheme have also teamed up to present the school with some outdoor safety matting for use on a play area. Lee Woodfine, operations manager for Lovell on the St Athan project, said: “The pupils had clearly put a lot of thought into their designs. It was great to see them using their imagination and really thinking about how to build a home so that it has less impact on the environment and helps people live in a greener way.” The new homes which Lovell is building for WWHA at St Athan will achieve Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, the system for measuring the energy efficiency and environmental impact of new housing. Energy-efficient features of the new properties include air source heat pumps which are powered electrically and use heat from the atmosphere to warm homes. Homes will also benefit from underfloor heating, in addition to mechanical ventilation with heat recovery systems which bring fresh air in from outside and recycle the otherwise ‘wasted’ hot air from bathroom and kitchens.

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AIR AMBULANCE TAKES TO THE SKIES DURING CHEQUE PRESENTATION
12 February 2010

For a charity that is almost entirely funded by public generosity, receiving funds comes high on the priority list, but nothing tops the importance of answering a call from someone in distress. The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, based at Henstridge in Somerset, were just about to receive a cheque from Yarlington Housing Group for a total of £1,568, when they had a call and had to take to the skies. The presentation was made on the ground as the helicopter sped away to its emergency call. Picture: (left to right) Annette Plaistow-Trapaud, fundraising coordinator for SDAA; Karen Davy, community involvement officer with Yarlington Housing group; and Caroline Moore, executive director of finance with Yarlington Housing group. Caroline Moore, executive director at Yarlington Housing group, said: “We never expected to be at the centre of a drama during the presentation, but it just goes to show how dedicated and responsive the team are. We are so pleased to have been able to help them with their funding.” The money had been raised by staff of the housing group, as their nominated charity of the year. Throughout 2009 the workforce raised funds in a number of ways, the most popular being the charity snack baskets located around the offices, with the cost of the items including a small donation for the cause. Other activities included a cake competition, raffles, cream teas and dress down days. Annette Plaistow-Trapaud, fundraising coordinator for DSAA, said: “I am delighted to receive this cheque from the housing association, we recognise the effort that has gone into raising this fantastic sum.” Staff at the housing association elect their chosen charity each January, and throughout 2010 they will be raising funds for the Children’s Hospice South West.

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Barnet Homes is seeking an Area Housing Manager . For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: February 19. Optima Community Association is seeking a Housing Assistant , £15,738 to £19,131 pa. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/westmidlands. Closing date: February 23. Optima Community Association is seeking a Community Involvement Manager , £ 27,855 - £30,017 pa. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/westmidlands. Closing date: February 23. Optima Community Association is seeking a Human Resources Manager, circa £35,000 pa. (more for the right candidate). For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/westmidlands. Closing date: February 23. CIH in Scotland is seeking a Head of Policy & Public Affairs. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs. Closing Date: February 12. Pierhead Housing is seeking a Housing Director, salary £50,722 - £56,357 p.a. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: February 23. 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. 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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