JOB OF THE WEEK: HAVE YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
08 March 2010

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR NEW BOARD MEMBERS?
08 March 2010

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

CIRCUS MARKS COMPLETION OF KNIGHTSTONE HOMES
08 March 2010

A circus-themed event has been to mark the official opening of 89 new homes on two nearby sites in St. Paul’s, Bristol by Nectar Homes and Knightstone Housing Associationn in partnership with Bristol City Council. The site of the development in Backfields holds historic importance in Bristol as it is the location of a mid-18th Century circus. Archaeologists found it to be the first riding school in Bristol and likely to be the first of its kind in the UK. The development has been named Ducrow Court after Andrew Ducrow, one of the most celebrated trick-riders of the late 18th and 19th centuries, who is believed to have performed there. The opening was conducted by the Deputy Mayor of Bristol, councillor Brenda Hugill, along with Stewart Wright, chairman of Knightstone Housing Association. Caroline Hughes, Knightstone’s regional development manager, said “It is great to be a part of Bristol’s history and see this historic site transformed into homes for the future. We are delighted to officially open the scheme which will provide much-needed homes for people in Bristol.” Ducrow Court has created 69 new homes and eight commercial units. The new homes were funded with a mixture of government funding from the Homes and Communities Agency, funding from Bristol City Council and private funding raised by Knightstone. The new apartments were built by Leadbitter construction. The opening event also celebrated the completion of 20 new homes close by at the Carnival Court development on Brigstocke Road. This scheme has produced much needed shared ownership housing for people unable to afford outright sale. The scheme was built by DB Russell of Clevedon with funding from both the Homes and Communities Agency and Bristol City Council who stepped in to provide additional funding to enable the homes to be more affordable Mike Day, Knightstone’s development director, said “We are committed to the regeneration of the St Paul’s area. The event has been a huge success and we would like to thank the local community who have worked closely with us to ensure that we are making a valuable contribution to St Paul’s housing strategy of providing more family housing and housing for low cost home ownership for local people.”

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GOLD AWARD FOR GLOS CITY HOMES
08 March 2010

Gloucester City Homes has achieved the Investors in People (IiP) ‘Gold Standard’ following a recent inspection. GCH is one of only nine organisations in the South West and 128 across the UK to have achieved Gold Status, putting it in the top one per cent of all 40,000 IiP organisations. To achieve Gold Status Gloucester City Homes had to satisfy at least 126 evidence requirements over and above those required for the standard which it achieved in 2006. The IiP assessment framework is an effective business tool through which GCH has continued to improve business performance, effectively set and communicated business objectives and invested in and developed its staff to deliver successful outcomes. In the IIP report, the assessment team described Gloucester City Homes as an “exemplar of outstanding performance in particular of employee engagement”. It said that the values of the organisation are central to every activity, “particularly ‘pride’ in delivering excellent service to residents, the community generally and each other”. The report added: “Senior managers daily find reasons to praise the contribution to success people are making. Teams have become innovation hotbeds for ideas to extend, improve services and improve performance.” “Recognition at ‘gold’ level is an outstanding achievement by everyone who works for the company. To have achieved success against 173 of the possible 196 evidence requirements (88 per cent) is truly exceptional, a wonderful team effort.” Anita Pope, executive manager, organisational development and diversity, said: “Achieving the IiP Gold standard has been part of a journey for GCH which has seen us embed a culture of excellence in service delivery and in investment in our people. “The comments from the assessor reflect our commitment to this and the passion we have for the services we provide to our customers. “We look forward to building on this tremendous success and working with the Investors in People team as we continue our journey.’ GCH chief executive, Ashley Green added: “This really puts us on the map as one of the top performing housing providers in the country. Investors in People are about delivering outcomes for customers through our fantastic employees, tenants and partners. “However, GCH is not just about awards, we are about providing excellent services that really do make a difference to peoples’ lives. “Some of our highlights include improving over 75 per cent of our homes in just two years under the Decent Homes improvement programme, completing 100 per cent performance in home safety checks of gas appliances, reducing rent arrears by 50 per cent as a top quartile performer and reducing the time that vacant homes stay empty to just 18 days, meaning that families waiting for new homes can move in faster.”

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COUNCIL PANEL TO REVEAL FINDINGS OF HOME CARE REVIEW
08 March 2010

Following a review of the home care service in the area, Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Healthier Communities and Older People Overview and Scrutiny Panel will present their findings and recommendations, at a public meeting this week. When the council took the decision in 2008 to move from an in-house to a commissioned home care service, the panel pledged to monitor the service provided to make sure quality of care remained high and service users received value for money. Carried out by a cross-party steering group made up from three HCOP Panel members, Councillors Anthony Clarke, Eleanor Jackson and Will Sandry, the review looked at the service provided by the five commissioned home care providers. The review focused on home care provided by carers who go to a service user’s home to help with things such as personal care and domestic tasks and looked to identify both best practice approaches and areas for improvement. As part of the review, panel members sought the views of service users, carers, local community representatives and staff. One steering group member also undertook two field case studies, with the social work team and the community mental health team to understand how elderly residents are assessed and referred for home care. The final report, which contains 15 recommendations, will be presented to the lead cabinet members, Cllr Vic Pritchard (Adult Social Services & Housing) Cllr Malcolm Hanney, (Resources), who will have six weeks in which to respond. Recommendations include; undertaking another review in three years time towards the end of the five year Strategic Home Care Partnership Contract, putting meetings in place to discuss the training needs of staff, conducting further research on the information available to ethnic minority clients and looking at ways to improve communication between the council and other services. Cllr Jackson, who led the review team, said: “I was very moved by the confidences shared with us, the evidence of the high degree of commitment by carers and their organisations, the courage of clients with debilitating conditions and mental illness, and the devotion of friends and relatives. “We look forward to a positive response to our proposals which should be achievable through making minor adjustments within existing budgets and if adopted should make life easier and less stressful for all involved in Homecare." The panel will present their final report and recommendations at a public meeting on Tuesday 9 March in the Guildhall Chamber, Bath, from 2:00pm.

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PREMIERE FOR SWAYTHLING JUINIOR PCSO SCHEME
08 March 2010

Swaythling Housing Society has produced a DVD to celebrate the exponential success of the Junior Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) scheme. The DVD was officially launched at a special screening to a select audience of Junior PSCOs and other dignitaries. The DVD illustrates the positive impact this ground-breaking programme has made in local communities throughout Hampshire since its launch two years ago, including the practical implications that Junior PCSOs have on the neighbourhood and how participants learn from the experience. It also captures the fun aspects of being involved, playing games and experiencing other recreational activities. Swaythling hopes it will encourage other housing associations across the UK to consider establishing their own Junior PCSO schemes. Ian Haworth, assistant director of Swaythling Housing Society, part of Radian, 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 inaugural Junior PCSO Scheme was set up by Hampshire Constabulary in 2007, in the Northam and Chapel areas of Southampton, in response to feedback from local residents about issues such as anti-social behaviour and low level crime. Swaythling supported the scheme with funding and the securing of local resident involvement. In Northam, statistics demonstrate a significant decrease in reports of anti-social behaviour since the scheme began in 2007, with a record 470 incidences in 2006/07 to just 270 in 2008/09.

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RCT HOMES RESIDENTS TO STAR IN ITV WALES SHOW
08 March 2010

A couple from Bryntirion, Mountain Ash, are taking part in a special issue of the ITV current affairs programme Wales This Week, investigating how families are coping during the credit crunch. This came about as RCT Homes, the housing organisation that took over ownership and management of the 10,000 + council homes in Rhondda Cynon Taf in 2007, was featured in the programme which showed their work in reducing financial exclusion amongst tenants. Picture: Dennis (holding his award for 24 years in the armed forces) and Colleen Knowles with their grandchildren and RCT Homes Tenant Liaison Officer Tracey Cooke. Back in February, Dennis Knowles came into a small fortune after RCT Homes helped him to look into his finances. Dennis and his wife Colleen have lived in their RCT Homes’ house with their four grandchildren for the last 18 years. RCT Homes tenant liaison officer, Tracey Cooke, was helping the Knowles’ through the process of the Major Improvement Programme in their home including a new kitchen and bathroom, when they started talking about finances – specifically that they didn’t have enough money for beds for themselves and their grandchildren. Tracey suggested Dennis apply for a grant from the Royal British Legion as he had served in the Armed Forces for over 24 years, and achieved a number of medals and awards. Tracey advised the retired couple to get estimates for the things they needed for the home and then helped them to complete an application form to the Royal British Legion for consideration. Dennis, a former Sergeant for the Welsh Guards in the Falklands and Northern Ireland, has since received a new cooker and £750 vouchers for Argos to purchase new beds and carpets for the home. The Wales this Week episode will feature Dennis and Colleen’s story as well as clips from RCT Homes’ play. ‘A New Coat’, which took to the road in February to visit the St Mairs Day Centre in Aberdare. This short play tells the story of Judy and her experience in borrowing from a doorstep lending. The show will also feature a host of advice from RCT Homes staff to tenants on how to avoid certain money pitfalls. In September 2009 RCT Homes launched the ‘Sound as a Pound’ scheme to help tenants to make the most of their money and access the right money services. As part of this, housing officers and tenant liaison officers can signpost tenants to the right advice and help them save money and access grants. Tracey said: “We need to make sure that we can help our tenants as far as possible to access the right financial services and make sure they are maximising their income. “We see tenants regularly and make every opportunity that they know about Sound as a Pound and the services we can offer. “It’s great to be able to help people like the Knowles’ or clearly deserve the support and would have struggled to pay for the goods otherwise.” Wales this Week will go out on Thursday March 11 at 7.30 pm on ITV Wales.

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Lune Valley RHA is seeking board members across north Lancashire and north Yorkshire. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. 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!
09 March 2010

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MAGNA TO BUILD NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES IN BRIDPORT
09 March 2010

Residents in Bridport are set to benefit from much-needed affordable new homes The new development, which is likely to be called Dibdin View in honour of the late local Councillor Humphrey Dibdin, is located on 3.2 acres of land transferred to Magna Housing Association (MHA) by West Dorset District Council for £1. Councillor Dibdin’s widow, Jane Dibdin, said: “This is exactly the sort of project that would have pleased my husband. Affordable housing was very close to his heart and I am delighted that this is being done in his memory. He would have been very moved.” Magna Housing Association will take the development forward and was chosen as the partner registered social landlord (RSL) by a community led group comprising, West Dorset District Council, Bridport Town Council, Bridport Local Area Partnership and Allington Parish Council. The pioneering scheme, which will feature 37 properties for rent, a further 17 for shared ownership and three self-build homes is designed to meet Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4. The strict sustainable homes criteria includes the installation of gas boilers combined with photovoltaic roof panels as standard. The majority of dwellings will meet the Lifetime Homes standard and are of timber frame construction. Magna director, David Aldwinckle, said: “This is an important scheme for the town and one we are proud to be involved in. This is 100% affordable housing, something that is much needed in Bridport.” The total development cost is more than £8m with £3.5m coming from a Homes and Communities Agency Grant. ISG Pearce Ltd is the main contractor and has pledged to use local labour where possible. Also included for the benefit of residents and the community at large will be a number of communal facilities: a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Brit, improving access to three local schools, and space for allotments. It is anticipated that the development of 57 affordable homes will be completed by June 2011.

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RECOGNITION FOR CUSTOMER CARE AT PLYMOUTH REFURBISHMENT
09 March 2010

The Leadbitter Group has been hailed by the national Considerate Constructors Scheme as ‘Exceptionally Good’ for its work on the Radford Estate in Prince Rock, Plymouth, where it has been refurbishing 192 properties that are some of the earliest examples of local authority housing in Europe. The refurbishment project has been undertaken on behalf of leading UK housing provider Sanctuary Group, which owns and manages the estate following its transfer from Plymouth City Council in September 2008. Leadbitter scored 37.5 out of a possible 40, an impressive achievement on a scheme made challenging by the sheer amount of work that had to be carried out in occupied homes. The score puts the project in the rarely awarded ‘Exceptionally Good’ category. The outstanding result compares very favourably with the national average score of 31.5. Paul Munro, Regional Manager of Leadbitter’s South West Housing Division, said: “This excellent score is testament to the hard work and dedication of all who are working on this complex refurbishment project. I am extremely proud of all involved. They have lived up to Leadbitter’s reputation for going the extra mile.” The high marks were awarded in recognition of the extensive community engagement activities conducted by Leadbitter. At the outset, Resident Liaison Officer Janet Gibbons and Site Manager Giles Staines developed a comprehensive strategy to reach out to each individual resident and fulfilled this commitment, making direct contact with 190 out of 192 residents. Justin Cartwright, Senior Regeneration Officer for Sanctuary Group said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Leadbitter, and we are thrilled their hard work has been recognised. As a company they share the same commitment as Sanctuary to provide high quality housing for residents, making them the perfect choice for our ambitious regeneration project at Prince Rock.” By the early summer, Leadbitter will have completed the refurbishment of all 192 properties. Works include fitting new kitchens, bathrooms, windows and doors, the provision of central heating and rewiring, plus other external repairs such as replacing fascias and gutters, repairing chimneys and repointing brickwork.

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BUILDING AWARD FOR FAIRLAKE DEVELOPMENT
09 March 2010

New homes built by Lovell for Fairlake in the Ringland area of Newport have received a Newport Building Excellence Award. The scheme took the award in the category for new developments of more than ten homes. The accolade was for the second phase of the scheme, which is made up of 32 new homes – 18 houses and eight apartments, four bungalows and two bespoke wheelchair bungalows. The new housing, for rent, and affordable home ownership, forms part of a partnership regeneration programme led by Fairlake (part of the Seren Group) and Newport City Council. Rhys Parry, Fairlake new business and development manager, said: ''Fairlake have worked closely with Newport City Council and Lovell to deliver high-quality homes for the residents of Ringland, and are pleased that their workmanship and commitment has been recognised with the growing number of awards that both the site and its staff have won to date.” Lovell regional director Nick Kurobasa added: “This is a great tribute to the outstanding work of site manager Paul Phillips and his team at Ringland. I’m delighted to see the high standards at the development recognised by this award.” The Ringland project will now go forward to the South Wales regional Building Excellence Awards in Cardiff on 12 March.

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MERLIN LAUNCHES 24-HOUR CALL SERVICE
09 March 2010

Merlin Housing Society has launched a new out-of-hours service to allow residents to report domestic violence concerns any time. Two women are killed by their current or former partners every week in the UK and one in four women will be a victim of domestic violence at some point in their lives, but only a third of victims report the crime. Now to coincide with International Women’s Day, Merlin has launched a new service for residents to allow them to report domestic violence at any time of the day. Calls during office hours can be made to one of Merlin’s three area offices. Calls outside of office hours can be made to Merlin’s existing repairs line number, where a specialist operator will be on hand to help. All out-of-hours calls to the service will be treated confidentially and call-handlers will be able to provide advice and take details from the caller. Merlin is working with local telephone handling specialists, Office Response, to provide the 24-hour telephone service. All the information they gather will be passed onto one of Merlin’s anti-social behaviour officers the next working day. As well as reporting domestic violence callers will be able to report anti-social behaviour and hate crimes. Merlin service delivery manager, Sonia Key said: “We’ve launched this service to give people the chance to report domestic violence, anti-social behaviour and hate crime incidents whenever they want. “Although we will not be able to respond there and then, all the details will be passed on the next day to one of our specialist anti-social behaviour officers. “If someone feels that they are in immediate danger they should dial 999. This service is about giving residents the support that they need and the knowledge that if they have any concerns they can contact us any time, day or night.”

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COASTLINE COVERS THE COST OF SHELTERBOXES
09 March 2010

Coastline Housing’s sheltered residents have dug deep in their pockets to raise enough money to cover the cost of three ShelterBoxes already on their way to help the victims of the Haiti earthquake disaster. Generous residents either donated prizes or purchased tickets for a bumper ShelterBox raffle, which raised over £1,500. ShelterBox is the international disaster relief charity that responds instantly to earthquake, volcano, flood, hurricane, cyclone, tsunami or conflict by delivering boxes of vital aid. It provides emergency shelter, warmth and dignity to people affected by disaster worldwide. Each ShelterBox supplies up to 10 people with a tent and essential equipment to use when they are displaced or made homeless. The raffle was organised by Camborne-based Coastline Housing’s supported housing team after residents, watching the devastation caused by the earthquake in Haiti on the TV news, said they would like to help. Denise Denman, supported housing officer at Coastline Housing, said: “Initially, our target was to raise enough money to cover the cost of one box. But people were so unbelievably generous that we raised enough to cover the cost of three full boxes in just a week.” Coastline Housing staff also pitched in by donating prizes and cash on ‘raffle day’ to help reach the grand total. Highly trained ShelterBox response teams continue to distribute thousands of boxes on the ground, working closely with local organisations, international aid agencies and Rotary clubs worldwide.

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Lune Valley RHA is seeking board members across north Lancashire and north Yorkshire. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. 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!
10 March 2010

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SPOTLIGHT
10 March 2010

EAST DEVEON COUNCIL IN CRANBROOK ‘ECO-TOWN’ BID
10 March 2010

Housing Minister John Healey has announced that East Devon District Council is to receive a share in a £10 million funding pot to help Cranbrook meet pioneering eco-town standards for sustainable growth. The £200,000 share will enable East Devon District Council to develop their Masterplan for Cranbrook test the potential for higher standards, helping them to lead the way as “Green Champions”. Mr Healey said: “I am pleased to announce two new areas in the eco-town second wave. “Councils are making great progress and already highlighting where they can apply tough green standards in new developments. “This signals real and radical momentum to change and re-think how we design our towns and homes for the future.” Cranbrook was first highlighted as a prototype eco-town in the Government’s Eco-Town prospectus, published July 2007, where it was described as aiming to be “an exemplar new settlement, encouraging innovation in the development of new communities and providing a large-scale test bed for some of the new technologies needed to achieve zero carbon”. Councillor Ray Franklin, East Devon District Council’s portfolio holder for strategic planning and regeneration, said: “It is fantastic that the Government continues to support Cranbrook as an exemplar prototype eco-town. “Our aspirations for this new community are high, but with continued Government support I know we can be successful and I am confident that we will see activity on site very soon.” The vision for Cranbrook has always been to build a sustainable community where houses are provided close to employment opportunities, reducing the need for residents to commute long distances by car. Cranbrook is already leading the way with innovative approaches to reducing carbon emissions including a proposal for a combined heat and power district heating scheme to serve the whole community and the development of Skypark. If approved this scheme would help Cranbrook to become a zero-carbon development and one of the first mass open market development in the country to achieve this. Although not an eco-town, the design for Cranbrook is a complete package of sustainable development which aspires to reach the eco-town standards, these include: open green spaces for recreation and education, a comprehensive public transport system, with a rail link, a net work of cycle and foot paths, well designed low carbon public building, sustainable energy solutions and the early delivery of social and community infrastructure. Councillor Ray Franklin added: I’m obviously pleased that the efforts of the team here at East Devon and in the wider Growth Point Partnership have again been recognised by the Government. “But the real beneficiaries from this development will be the families who live there, who will have warmer homes with lower running costs, as well as knowing that they are helping the environment.”

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£2 MILLION BOOST FOR COUNCIL HOUSING IN BRISTOL
10 March 2010

An extra £2 million is going to be spent on housing services in Bristol. Mark Wright Bristol City Council said the money will be found through efficiencies in the housing system, rather than from council tax. £1 million is going to be spent on improving the minimum standard of council properties at the letting stage. Councillor Mark Wright, cabinet member for housing and service improvement, said: "Feedback has shown that this is a key issue and by making sure we address this we will also help ensure that long-term tenancy problems are avoided." The money will be used to buy or repair things for the garden like fencing and to pay for decorating costs where the existing decoration is in poor condition. There will also options for new tenants where they could be entitled to a decoration allowance of more than £200 because of the extent of decorating required. £700,000 is also being allocated to make alterations to homes for people with disabilities. This money will enable an extra 176 disabled people over the next 12 months. Councillor Wright added: "Helping maintain the dignity and independence of disabled people is a key commitment and this additional funding should make a real improvement to the lives of a significant number of our residents."

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YARLINGTON APPOINTS AFFORDABLE HOMES FRAMEWORK PARTNER
10 March 2010

Mansell Partnership Housing has won a £1.7 million contract to construct 17 affordable homes in Eastover, Langport for Yarlington Housing Group. The new homes will be timber framed and will employ the use of high efficiency gas boilers and radiators with solar panels for hot water. The contract has been awarded under the Yarlington Housing Group Framework. Mansell has previously constructed 22 mixed tenure units of timber frame houses and flats at Beckington Crescent in Chard Somerset under this framework. Work is due to begin on site this month and will complete in one year’s time.

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NEW DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY INVESTMENT AT SANCTUARY
10 March 2010

Sanctuary Group has appointed Kate Still to the position of director of community investment and involvement. Kate Still Reporting to Simon Clark, Sanctuary Group’s director – housing and communities, Ms Still will be responsible for ensuring that Sanctuary works closely with residents to build and support vibrant, sustainable communities through investment in local activities and training opportunities. In partnership with external organisations and agencies, she will ensure that Sanctuary is making the most of available funding to bring long-term benefits to residents. Prior to joining Sanctuary, Ms Still held a number of high profile roles including her position as head of social economy for the South East England Development Agency, where she was responsible for strengthening relationships between the nine Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and central Government. Ms Still, who joins Sanctuary from Richmond Housing Partnership, where she was head of social investment and enterprise, said: “I was attracted to the position at Sanctuary because I was keen to work for an organisation that is committed to providing a first class service to its residents. “Investment in communities is even more important in tough economic times, when we need to give residents greater support in accessing opportunities that will make a long-term difference to their lives. “I am looking forward to harnessing Sanctuary’s fantastic reputation and helping to transform neighbourhoods into places our residents are proud to call home.”

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PLANS SUBMITTED FOR £23M SWANSEA MIXED USE SCHEME
10 March 2010

Nathaniel Lichfield and Partners (NLP) has submitted a planning application for a £23m major mixed use regeneration scheme in Swansea on behalf of Coastal Housing Group. The proposal comprises a preferred development scenario of 91 dwellings and nearly 10,000 sq m of commercial floorspace including Wales' first Creative Cluster. The application seeks permission for flexibility between residential and commercial uses across the site to allow the scheme to respond to evolving economic demands. Coastal Housing Group Project Manager, Steve Griffiths, said: “Our plans to develop an urban village in Swansea’s High Street will include apartments, restaurants and a creative cluster made up of advertising, design, film, new media, dance, fashion, art and print workshops. “Revitalising the High Street is an important part of any city centre regeneration plan and we are pleased to be working alongside the City and County of Swansea and the Welsh Assembly Government, with the latter providing financial help from their Strategic Regeneration Area funding programme, in bringing this project to fruition.”

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. Lune Valley RHA is seeking board members across north Lancashire and north Yorkshire. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. 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 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 March 2010

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FLOURISH HOMES TENANTS QUIZ LANDLORD
11 March 2010

Flourish Homes’ tenants got the chance to quiz their Somerset landlord at a special ‘Question Time’ event organised by their fellow residents. Tenant Nigel Strudwick was behind the event, coming up with the idea and organising the event. Taking questions from the floor was the executive team who are responsible for the day-to-day running of the Shepton Mallet-based housing provider, as well as its board chair Wendy Murphy and Aster Group chief executive, Bjorn Howard. Flourish Homes managing director, Alan Brunt said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our tenants to ask their burning questions to the people who run their housing association. “What made the evening even better for me was that the whole idea came from tenants and was organised and run by our tenants. “We are directly accountable to the people who live in our homes and getting their feedback, ideas and thoughts about how we’re providing our services to them is vital.” Playing the part of David Dimbleby on the night was Flourish Tenants’ Federation chair Elaine Penton, who lives in Street. She handled around 50 questions from the floor during the two-hour event, which took place at the Swan Hotel in Wells on Thursday March 4. Questions ranged from keeping dogs in flats, anti social behaviour and how we deal with asbestos in our homes to the number of new homes we’re building and how environmentally friendly we are. Questions were also asked about what the new local standards that the Tenant Services Authority want to bring in will mean for Flourish Homes as well as how budget cuts at county council level would affect our services to people living in sheltered accommodation. Mr Brunt added: “We’re always looking at new ways that we can involve our tenants in improving the way we do things and this Question Time event proved a popular way to get tenants to ask the questions they want answers to so we perhaps need to look at how we can do similar things in the future.” On the top table taking questions from the floor on the night were Flourish Homes board chair Wendy Murphy, managing director Alan Brunt, customer services director Chris George, finance director Karl Potts, housing and care services director Susan Holmes and Aster Group chief executive Bjorn Howard.

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GLOUCESTERSHIRE HA GAINS TPAS RECOGNITION
11 March 2010

Gloucestershire Housing Association (GHA) has been shortlisted for a regional award following the success of its new ‘Innovation in the Community’ initiative, which was launched last year. The award, which is for best practice in the community in the Midlands, is being presented by a national tenant organisation, the Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS). The Innovation in the Community initiative provides funding for GHA residents to apply for grants of between £100 and £2000 to fund local creative projects that benefit GHA residents and the wider community. In its first year, residents applied for a variety of projects, which are now being implemented with the funding they received. The applications included a luncheon club for older people in Podsmead and Tuffley, and a wooden play area near Dursley, which will encourage coordination and balance for children of all ages. The successful winner will be announced at an awards ceremony and dinner in Solihull on Thursday 18 March, where GHA will be represented by residents and staff. If successful, the housing association will then go on to be entered into the national awards, which will take place at the TPAS annual tenants’ conference in August. Chris Franks, vice chair of GHA’s board, said: “The initiative was very innovative and encouraged our residents to get involved and take control of what happens in their community. “The response was amazing and we look forward to seeing how the money is spent in the coming months.”

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TWO RIVERS APPOINTS COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT COORDINATOR
11 March 2010

Two Rivers Housing has appointed Howard Sinclair to the newly created role of community involvement coordinator. Howard Sinclair Mr Sinclair 's employment background is firmly rooted in social housing. He started out as a customer services officer working for Bristol Churches Housing Association, now Places for People. Using the experience he gained from being a frontline contact within a housing organisation, he moved on to become a housing officer in Cheltenham. He has worked on a number of short-term contracts and special projects, most notably as the lead officer setting up the Tenants' Disability Forum at Stroud District Council. Mr Sinclair 's focus has always been on involving communities and individuals in decisions that affect their quality of life. He said: "It is my aim to develop a culture of involvement and empowerment here at Two Rivers and to make sure all our staff and residents know about the positive aspects of community involvement." "I am looking forward to meeting all our tenants and residents in the coming months and hope that we can work together to help shape the way Two Rivers provides its services to all tenants and the communities in which it operates."

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EMPTY HOMES PROVIDE HOUSING AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
11 March 2010

Jocelyn Davies Welsh Assembly Deputy Minister for Housing and Regeneration, Jocelyn Davies AM has visited a former empty home in Rhyl that is to be sold as an affordable house to a local first time buyer. North Wales Housing Association worked in partnership with Denbighshire County Council on this affordable housing initiative and purchased three long term empty homes in West Rhyl. The houses have now been refurbished and will be sold as low cost housing to local people at 50 per cent of their open market value. Ms Davies visited a four-bed house in Lake Avenue, which was the first refurbishment to be completed under this initiative. The scheme has also provided opportunities for local people to undertake a variety of construction training, with apprentices having developed skills in areas such as plastering, joinery and surveying throughout the renovation process. Ms Davies said: “This is a fantastic scheme that not only helps local people to get their foot on the property ladder and purchase their own homes, but has helped local young people to gain the valuable skills they need to help them get jobs. “By taking empty homes and refurbishing them to turn them into good quality affordable homes we are tackling their wasted resource and helping to revitalise the local community.” One of the apprentices was 17-year-old Ashley Hughes from Kimmel Bay who was taken on as an apprentice plasterer but has now been offered full time employment by contractor K and C Construction. Ashley added: “I can’t believe the difference the scheme has made to me. I’m so grateful to have been able to take part in it, gain new skills and learn a trade.” The refurbishment is part of the Denbighshire Empty Homes Project, which was set up to give unoccupied dwellings a new lease of life as affordable housing. Part-funded by the Welsh Assembly Government through the North Wales Coast Regeneration Area funding, the scheme is thought to be one of the first of its kind in the country.

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NEW RESOURCE FOR TEIGN HOUSING TENANTS’ FORUM
11 March 2010

Torquay builders Rok have presented a computer to representatives from Teign Housing’s Tenants’ Forum for use in their Resource Centre. The centre in the Teign Housing office on the Brunel Industrial Estate in Newton Abbot provides a welcoming and accessible place for Teign Housing residents to meet and gain information. Among the resources available are internet access and photocopying and residents are encouraged to drop in and have a cup of tea or coffee at the centre which is manned three days a week by members of the Tenants’ Forum. The Tenants’ Forum is a group of committed individual volunteers who work to improve the services provided by Teign Housing, including the Decent Homes Standards improvement programme and the ongoing maintenance programme. Rick, chair of Tenants’ Forum, said: “The Tenants’ and Senior Forums have worked very closely with Rok over the past few years. “We would like to thank Rok for their contribution towards our new computer. It provides a useful tool for the centre and we will put it to good use.” Last year Rok’s Torquay office completed a three year, £9 million programme of improvements to more than 900 homes in the Teignbridge area as part of a strategic partnership agreement with Teign Housing to ensure all its properties across Teignbridge meet the Government’s Decent Homes Standards. Rok area leader, Andy Braund said: “The Tenants Forum was of great help to us during our works. “Members helped to select materials to incorporate in the improvements scheme, and provided valuable feedback on those choices. “They also provided useful feedback on how the works we were doing was being perceived by the tenants, which helped us to tailor the works to suit their needs and improve our service. “We are delighted to be able to present this computer to help the Tenants’ Forum provide a great facility for all the tenants.”

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: 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. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. Lune Valley RHA is seeking board members across north Lancashire and north Yorkshire. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. 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 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 March 2010

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TEIGN HOUSING STARTS £20m MAINTENANCE PROGRAMME
12 March 2010

Teign Housing has started a £20 million maintenance programme on the majority of its 3,600-plus homes across South Devon. Mike Hanrahan In 2009, the social housing provider completed a £45 million improvement programme as part of the transfer promise when Teignbridge District Council transferred its housing stock in 2004. The promised improvement programme bought all of Teign Housing's homes up to and beyond the criteria set out by the Government’s Decent Homes Standard. The new five-year maintenance programme, which started in September 2009, will now make sure this standard is kept up and continues to improve. Mike Hanrahan, Teign Housing's chief executive, said: "We want to make sure we provide our customers with good quality homes that they want to live in. “The very nature of buildings means that elements such as roofs and windows need regular maintenance and need to be replaced over time.” He added: “The regeneration work we're starting in Teignmouth's town centre this summer, is a good example of how we want to approach the maintenance of our homes and buildings. “It's not always financially viable to keep repairing elements that are out of date. So, whether it's a set of windows or the entire structure of a building, as is the case with the Teignmouth buildings, we will evaluate the best use of resources to keep giving people quality homes." Teign Housing has entered into a five-year partnership with local contractors Gibbs & Lugg and Rok to will help deliver the programme. A group of customers, staff and contractors has also been set up to monitor the quality and performance of the programme over the next few years.

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HOUSING & HEALTH WORKING TOGETHER
12 March 2010

The inextricable link between health and housing was highlighted at the county's first interactive conference designed to explore the relationship between good housing and improved health for people living in Gloucestershire. Key community figures teamed up with a range of policy makers including Two Rivers Housing’s management team and Jan Marriot, director of clinical change at NHS Gloucestershire, along with service users and tenants from across the region, to discuss a range of issues including why the key to good health stems from good housing. The conference was well attended as a result of a series of meetings held in Gloucestershire that identified the need for improved working relationships between the health and housing sectors in the region. The overall aim being to ensure the delivery of a shared vision that will benefit everyone. Held at the Anglo-Asian Cultural Centre in Gloucester, the conference was designed to reflect Gloucestershire's multi-cultural and diverse landscape and take account people and communities that had similar and different housing and health needs. The first of many conferences of this importance, the purpose of the event was to unite the region and determine the way forward in the interests all parties. Tenants and service users attended and were able to voice their concerns about accessing information and services, as well as the need for joined up services. A key point that emerged from the session was that healthy and safe housing conditions could have a significant impact on the health and well-being of individuals and communities. It was acknowledged that improved communication, targeted funding and the pooling of resources would all contribute towards the success of partnership working between the health and housing sectors. Presentations from a diverse and high profile range of speakers demonstrated how the formation of effective partnerships can lead to the improved general wellbeing of this region and a sharing of the burden on the NHS. Guest speakers included Shena Latto of the Housing and Support Partnership and Michael Heap, chair of Fosseway Housing and the Gloucestershire Voluntary Sector Assembly. Drawing on the vast knowledge and experience at the event, delegates were able to focus on working practices between the two sectors and the areas most in need of improvement, which would lead to positive changes for service users. Garry King, CEO of Two Rivers Housing, said: “We are delighted to have been able to bring together tenants, residents, health and housing experts to identify what we need to do to improve our communities. “As a housing provider operating predominantly within rural communities, many of the issues which arose around access to information and services really hit home.” He added: “We are excited about the prospect of working in partnership with other local health organisations to bring services to local communities. “We need to work together and be more creative about how we make the most of our combined resources and skills.' A follow-up event is planned for Spring 2010 where the focus will be on strategic and local level operations, to ensure a more holistic approach to improving the services tenants and residents receive throughout the county.

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AFFORDABLE HOUSING VITAL TO RURAL COMMUNITIES
12 March 2010

Creating affordable housing is vital to keep rural communities “vibrant and sustainable”, according to the Government's Rural Advocate Dr Stuart Burgess. Dr Stuart Burgess He was speaking at the South West Area Young Farmer's Club convention Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee forum held at Torquay's Livermead Cliff Hotel at the weekend. Dr Burgess released his annual Rural Advocate Report last week to Prime Minister Gordon Brown and spoke as part of a high-profile panel of speakers on the forum. His report highlighted eight issues and he explained creating affordable housing was about “how to make sure that 21st century rural communities are vibrant and sustainable”. Dr Burgess said: "It can only be that we take seriously affordable housing. If you can't afford to live in rural areas all my evidence points to young people moving away." He explained 30,000 people left rural areas each year and that many young people returned from university unable to buy houses because of being priced out of the market. Dr Burgess also called for improvements to rural transport, jobs, employment and skills to be made. He added: "Poverty in rural areas is hidden poverty, if you brought together all the people in the countryside who live below the poverty line it would be two million people, and that would be equivalent to the conurbation of Birmingham and there would be a national outcry. "Because poverty is dispersed it is more difficult to get a handle on it.” Dr Burgess was speaking as part of the panel that was chaired by John Lee, chairman of the South West Sustainable Food and Farming Board, Andrew Slade, the executive director of the South West Regional Development Agency, Nick Chase, the head of policy and research at Action with Communities in Rural England, Ed Aceman, Young Farmers Representative and Graeme Cock, director of Mole Valley farmers.

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BOURNEMOUTH TO BUILD NEW COUNCIL HOMES
12 March 2010

Bournemouth residents will see new council housing by the end of 2010 as construction gets underway to provide the first new-build social housing in seven years. The first block will be laid on 10 March 2010 at 10am at the site in Mallard Road, marking the start of construction work to provide 10 flats and 2 family houses. Councillor Douglas Spencer, cabinet member for housing and social support, said: “Our priority as a council is to provide more affordable housing in the borough. I’m extremely pleased that this development is moving along quickly so that we can offer residents in Bournemouth quality and affordable accommodation in a central location.” The development, which will cost a total of £1,123,468 has been made possible thanks to a successful bid for a government grant of £540,000 with the remainder funded through prudential borrowing. Contractor Parsons & Joyce have been appointed to provide the new homes which will be built to a high standard with a focus on energy efficiency. Work is due to be complete by October 2010.

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TAFF HOUSING HAS THE ‘MIDAS TOUCH’
12 March 2010

Taff Housing Association has become the first organisation in South Wales to achieve ‘Gold Status’ from Investors in People (IIP). The IIP standard is well recognised and has been achieved by many organisations for the work they do on learning and development with their staff. IIP realised that some organisations wanted to demonstrate progress beyond the regular standard and have recently introduced Bronze, Silver and Gold Status for those who can demonstrate excellence in areas such as leadership and management, business strategy, involvement & empowerment and continuous improvement. Taff underwent a rigorous assessment process, involving in depth interviews with staff at all levels. They were questioned on over 160 evidence requirements until the assessor was satisfied there was confirmation that these additional standards were met. Taff Housing Association chief executive, Elaine Ballard said: “We always aim for excellence, but this was a particularly tough assessment, and we were thrilled to have come out of it with Gold. “Our staff really enjoyed the process, and are proud to work for an organisation able to achieve such a significant award.”

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

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: 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. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. Lune Valley RHA is seeking board members across north Lancashire and north Yorkshire. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. 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 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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