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

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR NEW BOARD MEMBERS?
15 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.

HOME OWNERSHIP COMES WITHIN REACH AT COASTLINE
15 March 2010

First time buyers in Cornwall – the toughest place in Britain for young couples to get a foot on the housing ladder – are clamouring for shared-ownership schemes to beat the double whammy of low pay and sky-high house prices, according to Coastline Housing. Robert Nettleton Cornwall remains particularly hard hit on the property front with incomes below the national average, and property prices – even in the house price slump – generally more expensive than other regions. Coastline chief executive, Robert Nettleton said: “We believe strongly that people should have the opportunity to live in the communities where they were born and bred and are therefore committed to providing new affordable homes in rural communities.” Working in Partnership with the local authority, Coastline imposes a number of restrictions on applicants to ensure the shared-ownership houses and flats go to genuinely local people in housing need. He added: “People have to demonstrate that they have local connections, such as residential qualifications, or having close family in the area.” Coastline’s newest development – at Lewannick, near Launceston – has just begun, and will offer properties ranging from two, three and four bedroom houses and bungalows, which can be rented or part-owned. A similar scheme in St Ives, completed recently, and the shared ownership homes were nine times over subscribed. The latest Lewannick development is costing £2.3 million, and has been made possible thanks to funding from the Homes and Communities Agency, which provided £1m, and Cornwall Council, which supplied £100,000. The homes will be cheap to run, having solar panels and radically improved levels of insulation. Energy efficient air source heat pumps will also be used to provide heating and hot water.

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BRISTOL CRACKDOWN ON EMPTY HOMES BRINGS SUCCESS
15 March 2010

Bristol City Council’s drive to cut the number of long-term empty properties through a combination of help and enforcement has seen the numbers brought back into use rise by 13 per cent, compared to figures for 2007. Mark Wright In 2007, the number of long-term empty properties – unoccupied for more than six months – stood at 2,080. In 2008, the figure had been cut to 1,982. Currently, the number of long-term empty properties stands at around 1,790. One success story is 1 Elmtree Drive, Bishopsworth, a property which had been empty for over four years and which had become a magnet for problems including fly-tipping, graffiti and anti-social behaviour. Officers from the empty property team sought out, made contact with the owner of the house and worked with him providing advice and assisting him in bringing the property back into use. Financial aid was offered and work done with the owner to address the problems that had been attracted by the site. However, when this failed to result in it being brought back into use, the council made a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO). A CPO allows a local authority to take ownership of and sell on a property with a requirement that the new owner brings it back into use, promptly. As a result of the action, an agreement was reached with the owner to bring the property back into use within 12 months. Eleven builders were employed by the owner to renovate and extending the property to a very high standard. Now that the property is occupied the level of anti-social behaviour around the property has reduced significantly. Councillor Mark Wright, cabinet member for housing and service improvement, said: “Tackling the disgrace of owners leaving homes empty when there is such a demand for homes is a key priority for the city council. “Leaving a property empty long-term is not only bad in itself, it also often has an impact on the surrounding area, attracting problems and dragging down the rest of the community. “I am confident that the carrot and stick approach – the offer of help and support and the threat of court action – means we will continue to see a marked fall in the number of long-term empty properties.”

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NEWPORT CITY HOMES MARKS FIRST ANNIVERSARY
15 March 2010

Newport City Homes (NCH) has marked its first anniversary since properties were handed over by Newport City Council on the March 9, 2009. Over the last twelve months, NCH has established the structure and systems to deliver promises made to its residents during the pre-transfer process. Over 78 kitchens, 60 bathrooms, 281 heating upgrades, 585 new windows/doors have been installed and adaptations works have been made to over 630 homes, enabling residents to live independently for longer. Through dedicated teams, NCH has also offered advice and support to those looking for a place to rent or to be re-housed and 757 new tenancies have been established since transfer. NCH has also introduced specialist teams to provide added support in its communities in matters of antisocial behaviour and specialist financial advice with the Community Safety and Financial Inclusion teams now fully operational. Peter Cahill, NCH chief executive, said: "There is still a long way to go on our journey to deliver the promises made to our residents, but many of the building blocks for making progress are now in place." NCH residents have played a key part in the work of the organisation, with over one hundred and fifty residents being actively involved in the work of the organisation by developing policies and procedures, interviewing for new vacancies and participating in groups such as the Citywide Panel, Quality Improvement Panel, Communications Working Group, Leaseholder Panel, Parents Group and forums for sheltered housing tenants and young people. Chris England, chair of the board, added: "It is not just about the resources, it is also about putting service excellence at the top of our ambitions list and making a difference to people and neighbourhoods."

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SOVEREIGN SOUTH + WEST OFFERS DEBT ADVICE
15 March 2010

Sovereign South+West has been working with local partners on a new website aimed at directing people to the best solutions for financial help and support. The housing association realises that people need a one-stop-shop for easy access to all the information that they need when it comes to dealing with money issues. Dan Smith, rent income manager for Sovereign South+West, said: “Sovereign has been working really hard with partners to not only work on cutting edge reports about debt collection, but also setting up initiatives such as the new website and telephone debt advice service. “We hope that this will help all our residents to get access to the advice they need in an easy manner.” The new website can be found at www.debtdrivingumad.co.uk. Sovereign South+West’s work on offering advice to residents has also led to them working with the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) on its latest report on best practice in debt collection and on finding the best ways to offer advice to the people that need it most. Sovereign has been actively involved in a working partnership with Tadley CAB, which runs a pre-eviction panel. The panel allows residents who face losing their homes due to rent arrears a final chance to have access to valuable debt and benefits advice and the opportunity to receive the help they need to maintain a regular payment to the landlord and ultimately keep them in their home. Alex MacDermott, Creditor liaison policy officer at CAB and report author, added: “Our collaboration with Sovereign South+West shows the importance of doing the right thing and helping people in debt get over their financial problems. “Now we’re looking forward to working with them and other social landlords so all tenants are offered the help and support they need to sustain their tenancies and overcome any other debt problems they might have.”

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RCT HOMES RESIDENTS SAVE ON ENERGY BILLS
15 March 2010

Tenants in Rhondda Cynon Taff have saved over £800,000 on their energy bills and 3,000 tonnes of CO2 over the last two years thanks to the major improvements by RCT Homes in installing the most energy efficient boilers in homes. When RCT Homes took over ownership and management of 10,000+ former Rhondda Cynon Taf Council homes in December 2007 it embarked on a major programme to modernise the homes throughout the borough. One of these commitments was to update and install modern condensing combo-boilers in all tenants’ homes. Over the last two years over 3000 boilers of the highest energy efficiency rating have been installed in homes by RCT Homes. These boilers are dramatically more efficient than previous versions and save tenants an average of £262 per year per home – totally £816,654 across all the homes. Andrew Bradley, project manager at RCT Homes, said: “The savings of close to £1 million pounds for tenants across Rhondda, Cynon Taff shows the real progress being made to bring homes up to a high standard and have a positive impact on tenants lives and the environment. “The installation of high rating energy efficiency boilers goes hand in hand with numerous other initiatives including cavity wall insulation, solar panels and new UPVC windows and doors. “The financial benefits of these improvements will reach tenants over time and we are almost looking at new ways to support these projects.” The programme of work will continue over the next few years ensuring that every RCT Homes tenant has a new energy efficient boiler fitted in their home. The boilers will then be inspected regularly to confirm they working at their most efficient levels – saving money for tenants and reducing the carbon footprint. One of the homes to have already benefited from this programme is that of Robert and Gillian Werrell of Cedar Lane in Rhydyfelin. They had their new boiler fitted in January this year. Gillian said: “We have been living in this house for 30 years and our gas bills have always been high because we have cared for my mother so the house had to kept warm. Our previous boiler was 15 years old we had a new boiler was fitted in the new year. “We are hoping to see the drop in bills quickly as we continued to use the new boiler a lot in the bad weather earlier this year. As well as the money savings it’s also easier to use."

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
15 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 Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. 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!
16 March 2010

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MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR HOUSING NEWS
16 March 2010

Housing News exists to provide a national platform for Britain’s affordable and social housing sector. We deliver eight regional daily newsletters to over 19,000 readers providing news that is focussed, fast and free. Our regional newsletters cover: North East & Yorkshire North West & North Wales Eastern West Midlands South East South West & South Wales London Scotland If you would like to receive any of the above FREE publications then email news@housingnews.co.uk

TEIGN HOUSING GETS APPROVAL FOR MAKEOVER PROJECTS
16 March 2010

Teign Housing has been granted planning approval to regenerate five prominent buildings in Teignmouth. The £3 million makeover will greatly improve the appearance of the blocks of flats and the overall look of the town centre. The improvements to the external walls and roofs will increase energy efficiency allowing each household to save, on average, £180-a-year on energy bills. Jo Reece, Teign Housing's deputy chief executive, said: "We're really looking forward to starting this high profile project. To do this type of regeneration work is a great step for Teign Housing and Teignmouth. “Since last September we have been busy consulting with local residents and businesses at a series of road shows. “We have also had a lot of local media interest in the project, which has prompted many residents to get in touch and share their views. Having their input has been a crucial part in the success of the designs. “We believe the new and improved buildings will have a positive impact on our customers and the wider community." With planning approval granted, work will start this summer and will take two years to complete.

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JEPHSON FINDS NEW HOMES FOR WILDLIFE
16 March 2010

Jephson Homes Housing Association has carefully re-homed over 100 slow worms and other animals as part of work to build a £5.2million housing development in a Bristol village. The housing association is building 32 new homes at a disused allotment site in Myrtle Drive, Shirehampton, after receiving a £1.9 million grant from the Homes and Communities Agency. Ecological surveys of the site revealed it supported protected species including slow worms, which are a type of legless lizard, plus a range of breeding birds, foraging badgers and bats so Jephson began efforts to minimise the environmental impact of the work. Jephson purchased the land from Bristol City Council in 2007 and the local authority has been heavily involved in the development of the project. The 32 new homes will all be available for rent, with 25 for general needs, low cost rent and seven for intermediate rent. The first properties are due for completion in July this year. Phil Spooner, development officer at Jephson, said: “With every new development, we are sympathetic to the surroundings and as soon as it was revealed this site was home to so much wildlife, we called in The Landmark Practice to ensure we caused as little disruption as possible.” The association called in Bristol-based environmental planning and design firm The Landmark Practice and they helped to create a wildlife buffer habitat. It was enhanced by improving the existing hedgerows and planting native trees, scrub and wildflower areas, around the perimeter of the construction area. The Landmark Practice’s senior ecologist, Jo Donnelly said: “After relocating the slow worms out of the construction site, reptile-proof fencing was installed around the perimeter of the construction area to prevent them returning. “In all, 122 slow worms were relocated to a suitable habitat, including adjacent allotments and nearby Lamplighter’s Marsh.” Habitat improvements for the reptiles included the creation of rough grassland areas within the buffer habitat and scrub management within the marsh.

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TVH ACHIEVES CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE
16 March 2010

Thames Valley Housing’s “well developed customer ethos” has helped it to achieve the Customer Service Excellence (CSE) accreditation for the first time. TVH was successful in all five areas of the assessment: customer insight, organisational culture, information and access, service delivery, and timeliness and quality of service. The report particularly acknowledged the high level of engagement TVH maintained with its customers. The assessment acknowledged that TVH set itself stretching targets and that many improvements had been made in full consultation with its customers and partners. Geeta Nanda, TVH CEO, said: “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. “They drive our strategy, inform our culture of continuous improvement and are involved in policy making through a range of involvement activities. “I am delighted all of this has been recognised with Customer Service Excellence accreditation.” CSE has replaced Charter Mark as the national customer service standard for public service providers. TVH has held Charter Mark status since first receiving the award in 2001.

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FITNESS ON THE AGENDA AT FUTURES AT KNIGHTSTONE
16 March 2010

Staff and clients from Futures at Knightstone’s supported housing schemes in Poole are holding an event today to celebrate National Housing Federation’s (NHF) South West Supported Housing Month. The event takes place at Poole Park’s outdoor gym between 10.30am-12.30pm. Everyone will be treated to a warm up and cool down by Knightstone staff before they workout on the outdoor gym. Part of Knightstone Housing Association, Futures at Knightstone offers support and accommodation to over 1,500 people to help them maintain and sustain their tenancy to prevent homelessness. It provides support and encourages independence to a wide range of clients, many of whom suffer poor mental health. South West Supported Housing Month has been organised by the National Housing Federation and runs throughout March. It is an awareness-raising campaign aimed at showcasing the work of the sector. Sheila Maycock, Knightstone’s resident involvement officer in Poole, said: “We’re looking forward to glorious sunshine for our healthy exercise. “The benefits of exercise to improve mental health is well documented and we’re pleased to be able to offer this opportunity.”

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SECURITY REVAMP FOR RCT HOMES RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
16 March 2010

A residents association is springing into action in the grounds of their community base after raising enough money from local businesses to fit security cameras on the house. The Bryntirion Tenants and Residents Association base, which is a central point for RCT Homes tenants to report repairs, raise queries and collect bin bags and recycling equipment, has undergone a security revamp following funding from RCT Homes partner contractor Bullock. Bullock wanted to give something back the community after completing RCT Homes Major Improvement Programme (MIP) on the estate, which delivered 235 new kitchens and bathrooms to tenants as well as 119 electrical rewires to homes on the estate. Picture: Gerwyn Miles, Bullock site manager with RCT Homes tenant liaison officer Tracey Cooke and Gwilym Curtis, vice chairman of Bryntirion TRA. Gwilym Curtis, vice chairman of Bryntirion TRA, who manages the community base, said: “We have wanted to create a memorial garden for the base for local fallen servicemen and women. “We bought benches and plaques months ago and have already started to landscape it with the help of our Future Job Fund placement workers. “We realised we needed security cameras on the house, not that there’s ever been any problems, but with the new benches and new staff working in reception we wanted to make the house safe and secure for local people.” The group were struggling to raise the £300 they needed to buy the cameras so help came in the form of RCT Homes and Bullock. Bullock had contacted RCT Homes to see what they could offer Bryntirion community as a thank you for supporting the MIP project. RCT Homes got in touch with Gwilym to find out what they needed most and within weeks the cameras were installed. Tracey Cooke, tenant liaison officer with RCT Homes, said: “The success of their improvement works on homes in Bryntirion and the new security at the tenants and residents base is all down to the TRA, Bullock and RCT Homes working together for the benefit of the community. “It’s great to be involved in this and I hope the memorial garden will be a huge success.”

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
16 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 Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. Shelter Scotland is seeking a Empty Homes Co-ordinator, £31,838, Location flexible within Scotland. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: 26 March 2010. Manor Estates Housing Association is seeking a Technical Inspector, Salary (from 1st April 2010) £27,190 - £29,911. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: noon on March 29. 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: HEAD OF PROPERTY & DEVELOPMENT
17 March 2010

SBH………with the Community at Heart Head of Property and Development Salary £55,876 plus 2% car allowance and attractive benefits At SBH we’re proud of our services. That’s because we are committed to putting the community at heart. We’ve established a strong partnership approach and we believe that no matter how good we are there’s always room for improvement. That’s where you come in. Dynamic and focused you will have a strong vision and the leadership skills to drive through change whilst continuing to deliver our successful improvement programmes. You’ll need to demonstrate a proven track record in Property Services, will have knowledge of Regeneration and Development and will have all-important strategic know-how. So there’s never been a better place to make a difference. For more information please contact Human Resources on 0845 505 5500 ext 4313. The closing date for this post is Wednesday 24 March 2010. Please return completed application forms to the address stated or alternatively send to maria.ord@sedgefieldboroughhomes.co.uk.

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FAMILY MOVES INTO SELWOOD HOUSING’S 1000TH HOME
17 March 2010

A family has moved into Selwood Housing’s 1000th new home Melanie Knight moved into the three bedroom semi-detached house in Trowbridge with her husband and three children, which is located on a site that was once her father’s garage. Selwood Housing developed this home, along with a four bedroom semi-detached home, for affordable rent on a former garage site. The homes were funded by Selwood Housing and the Homes and Communities Agency. John Alford, chair of Selwood Housing, said: “Selwood Housing was formed to give a new focus to providing affordable homes in the area. 20 years on, we’re still doing this by continuing to build new homes while maintaining our existing ones. “Our 1000th new build home definitely is a landmark for us - it shows we are continuing to accomplish what we set out to do. “But, it’s also a landmark for the Knight’s because it has made a difference to their family. “And it is the thousands of lovely families like the Knights who are the reason why we do what we do.” The Knight family had been living in Bristol in privately rented accommodation, but they had wanted to move back to Trowbridge for the last couple years. Melanie said: “Our home is absolutely lovely. I can’t get over how much there is – there are solar panels, a big kitchen, good-sized bedrooms and a nice garden. “Selwood Housing really thought about a family when they developed this home, and we’re over the moon to be lucky enough to move here – it’s our time to be happy.”

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CASH TO TACKLE EMPTY HOMES IN TORBAY
17 March 2010

Torbay Council is to receive £53,000 from the Government so it can step up efforts to get empty homes back in use. It is one of 17 local authorities selected from 60 councils to receive a share of £1 million. The funding will help the chosen councils take action against empty homes and reduce anti-social behaviour associated with them. The project is part of the Government's drive to tackle anti-social behaviour and 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. It will use the money to target the area’s worst properties - most of which have been empty for several years. However, anti-social behaviour hasn't been noted as a problem associated with these addresses. Action will include working in partnership with registered social landlords to renovate houses for letting out as social homes, and using private funding to turn empty homes into properties that allow local people to take a more affordable step onto the housing ladder. In addition to this the council will be giving out grants to help owners of empty properties bring them back into use. The council also has the option of taking enforcement action on owners that are unwilling to work with the council. Over the past few years the council has brought dozens of properties back into use through a variety of means, but this extra funding will help the council be more effective. Councillor Neil Bent, cabinet member with responsibility for housing, said: "I am delighted Torbay Council has attracted this funding. It will help us make a real visible difference to the areas these empty homes are in. "Improving access to good quality affordable homes is one of the council’s priorities, and we are working very hard to reduce the levels of housing need. “By helping landlords access funding to renovate their empty properties we can increase the number of available affordable homes and social housing in the Bay and make better use of what we already have.” Work due to start on this project in April 2010.

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FREE HEALTH CHECKS FOR HOMES IN SEDGEMOOR TENANTS
17 March 2010

Homes in Sedgemoor has teamed up with Sedgemoor District Council and NHS Somerset to pilot a new scheme that aims to help tenants stay healthy for longer, by bringing free NHS health checks to the doorsteps of those living in supported housing. Trained staff members from Sedgemoor District Council will be attending supported housing schemes in Cheddar and Bridgwater later this month to carry out health checks on behalf of NHS Somerset. The checks will be made available to residents living in these areas who may otherwise not have been able to travel to receive them elsewhere. This new NHS programme is a national preventative scheme that is targeting people aged between 40 and 74 years old, who are not already known to have cardiovascular health problems. Homes in Sedgemoor chief executive, Gary Orr said: “We are proud to be supporting such an excellent programme that can really help to improve the lives of our customers. “I’m sure that the programme will be well received by residents at the schemes where it is being piloted, and if successful we plan to roll out to other areas in the near future.” Selected tenants have been sent invites to attend one of 25 slots that will be available on the day. Each slot will provide a private 30-minute health check that will assess cardiovascular risks, and the risk of developing other health problems such as heart disease, strokes, kidney disease or diabetes. The assessors will do this by asking simple lifestyle questions, and measuring things like height, weight, BMI and blood pressure. Pin-prick blood samples will also be taken to measure cholesterol and glucose levels of those undergoing the health checks. After the assessment is complete they will also take time to discuss with individuals the ways that any risks can be managed and advice about any other services that may be available to them.

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MAGNA STAFF LEARN SIGN LANGUAGE
17 March 2010

Staff at Magna Housing Group are learning British Sign Language in a bid to communicate more effectively with their staff and clients. The social housing landlord owns and manages more than 9,000 properties across the West Country, with a number of its tenants either deaf or hard of hearing. Training is being provided by Lyme Bay BSL and endorsed by Signature, the national British Sign Language awarding body. Sally Huggins, Magna’s equality and diversity policy officer, said: “Equality and diversity are areas of extreme importance at Magna. It is vital that we cater for all our residents and having staff who are able to offer sign language will be a big help to many”. “Often people who are deaf or hard of hearing can feel very isolated, especially when it comes to important issues such as housing, claiming housing benefit and understanding other services available to them. “Having staff who can effectively communicate will help enormously and I’m sure it will be a big comfort to those with hearing problems.” A total of six employees are undergoing training and will be available to assist tenants at the organisation’s offices in Dorchester and Williton, West Somerset. Staff undertook their first exams in February and have two more exams before the end of the training in July. One of those learning sign language is Kate Carpenter, who works in Magna’s legal department. She said: “The opportunity to learn sign language was one I felt I couldn’t turn down. It is a great skill to have, both from a work and personal point of view. “The training itself has been very enjoyable and it really makes you appreciate the difficulties experienced by deaf and hard of hearing people on a daily basis. “I’m delighted to now have the ability to communicate more effectively with those colleagues and tenants who have hearing problems and I’d encourage anyone to learn this amazing new skill.” Lyme Bay BSL, based in Charmouth, is run by tutor Kate Fowler, who was born profoundly deaf. Ms Fowler has been a British Sign Language and Deaf Awareness teacher for 17 years and a Signature assessor for five years.

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PENNAF HOUSING MAKES ‘BEST 100’ COMPANIES LIST
17 March 2010

The Pennaf Housing Group has made into The Sunday Times ‘Best 100 Companies to Work For’ list covering medium-sized companies. The ‘Top 100’ list for companies employing between 250 and 5,000 employees will be published earlier this month with the St Asaph-based housing group listed at 92nd – the only Welsh social housing provider to make the top 100 list. Picture: Richard Caseby, managing editor of The Sunday Times (left) presents the ‘Sunday Times Top 100 Companies to Work For’ award to Roger Waters, chairman of Pennaf Ltd. It was the first time the award-winning North Wales Group had entered the Sunday Times listing and the awarding body said that it was “extremely unusual” for a company to receive a ‘Top 100’ placing in the very first year of entering. This year a total of 964 companies took part in the listings and detailed questionnaires were sent in by 230,000 employees across the UK. Gill Murgatroyd, Director of Human Resources for Pennaf, who employ around 400 people across North and Mid Wales said: “It is excellent that we have achieved this listing the first time we have made a submission. “It is a huge endorsement of all the work that The Pennaf Group has been doing regarding employee engagement. “It’s a fantastic achievement and I am very proud that staff feel so positive and motivated.” An award ceremony celebrating the achievements of the companies was held in London and Mr Roger Waters, Chairman of Pennaf said: “It was a privilege to attend the ‘Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For’ event and I’m so pleased to lead the Pennaf Group. “The credit however goes to all the staff within The Group who contribute to making Pennaf what it is. I am truly proud that our employees recognise Pennaf as a ‘Best Company to Work For’.” Pennaf was also given a “First Class, One Star” rating under the Best Companies Index who organise the Sunday Times listing. This year almost 1,100 companies applied for the star rating accreditation with only 38 per cent of applicants making the grade. While there are a total of 31 Registered Social Landlords across the UK with star accreditation, Pennaf, which includes Clwyd Alyn Housing Association, is one of just three Welsh housing groups listed.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
17 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 Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. Sedgefield Borough Homes is seeking a Head of Property and Development, salary £55,876. For more information, go to: northeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: March 24. Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. Shelter Scotland is seeking a Empty Homes Co-ordinator, £31,838, Location flexible within Scotland. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: 26 March 2010. Manor Estates Housing Association is seeking a Technical Inspector, Salary (from 1st April 2010) £27,190 - £29,911. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: noon on March 29. 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: HEAD OF PROPERTY & DEVELOPMENT
18 March 2010

SBH………with the Community at Heart Head of Property and Development Salary £55,876 plus 2% car allowance and attractive benefits At SBH we’re proud of our services. That’s because we are committed to putting the community at heart. We’ve established a strong partnership approach and we believe that no matter how good we are there’s always room for improvement. That’s where you come in. Dynamic and focused you will have a strong vision and the leadership skills to drive through change whilst continuing to deliver our successful improvement programmes. You’ll need to demonstrate a proven track record in Property Services, will have knowledge of Regeneration and Development and will have all-important strategic know-how. So there’s never been a better place to make a difference. For more information please contact Human Resources on 0845 505 5500 ext 4313. The closing date for this post is Wednesday 24 March 2010. Please return completed application forms to the address stated or alternatively send to maria.ord@sedgefieldboroughhomes.co.uk.

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SOUTH WESTERN HOUSING SECURES £10m DEAL
18 March 2010

A Weston-based housing society has secured a £10 million bank deal to build affordable houses over the next three years. South Western Housing Society has built £8million worth of affordable homes across the South West since 2007, and has secured funding from Triodos Bank to build another 100. SWHA chairman, Anne Robinson said:"This additional funding will allow us to continue with our successful development programme to build much needed affordable housing in the South West. James Jones, from Triodos Bank, added: "It's fantastic to be able to play a part in the expansion of South Western Housing Society, and to help them to deliver their plan for additional new homes over the next three years. “Affordable housing is key to providing sustainable communities and an area where Triodos is keen to make a difference."

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TWO RIVERS SIGNS UP TO SUPPORTED HOUSING CAMPAIGN
18 March 2010

Two Rivers Housing has signed up the National Housing Federation's (NHF) Supported Housing Month, celebrating the important and multi-faceted work that takes place within supported housing throughout the country. Two Rivers has joined together with other providers throughout the South West to shout out about these vital services during the campaign, which runs throughout March. Supported housing helps some of the most vulnerable people in our community live fulfilling and rewarding lives through providing a wide range of services. Rachel Smith, business and support manager for Two Rivers, said: "Two Rivers offers supported housing to over 1100 people over the age of 60 or with a disability living in Gloucestershire. “We are only too happy to show our support for the NHF campaign, and hope that these events and activities help highlight the positive influence supported housing has on people's lives."

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EUROPEAN FUNDING FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY UPGRADES TO WELSH HOMES
18 March 2010

The Welsh Assembly Government plans to use up to £34 million of European funding to improve energy efficiency in existing homes, Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones has announced. Following changes introduced by the European Commission, for the first time European funding will be used to support investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy generation measures. The move will help cut carbon emissions and fuel bills as well as providing a major boost to support green jobs in Wales. The funding will be targeted at those living in Wales' most deprived communities. It will also contribute to the Assembly Government's commitment to cut annual emissions by 3 per cent a year from 2011. Mr Jones said: "Making homes more energy efficient is a key part in our ambitions to reduce Wales’ carbon footprint. “I am delighted that for the first time we will be able to use European funding to help those who most need it make their homes more energy efficient. “Improving energy use in the home is also an important step in the delivery of our Green Jobs Strategy for Wales, developing skilled jobs for local people. “Domestic energy efficiency is a growing industry, and we have the opportunity to position Wales at its forefront through this investment. “I will now be looking carefully at the options available to maximise the economic, social and environmental impact of these changes as soon as possible."

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REGION ADVISES GOVERNMENT ON SPENDING
18 March 2010

Organisations responsible for housing, regeneration, transport and economic development in the South West have submitted advice on how £9.3bn of funding should be spent over the next 10 years to the Regional Minister, Ben Bradshaw MP. The region was asked by Government to prioritise where money should be spent and to balance aspirations for investment against the level of funding available. The total of funding over the next 10 years (2009/10 – 2018/19) is £9.3bn. The Regional Funding Advice (RFA) exercise covers funding allocations for transport, housing and regeneration and the economy and emphasises the region’s commitment to sustainable low carbon development. Adult skills is also included, but no funding has been identified within RFA. The Strategic Local Authorities’ Leaders’ Board, South West Regional Assembly, South West RDA and the Homes & Communities Agency have been working together to prepare the region’s priorities for investment and funding for the period up to 2019. The advice requested by Government has now been submitted to the Regional Minister Ben Bradshaw, and a final response is expected from Government by the summer recess. The challenge for the region has been to address the many aspirations within the South West within the funds available. A number of consultation events have taken place across the region to help inform the process, these have been focused on helping to delivering the region’s existing planning, transport, housing and economic strategies. The Regional Funding Allocation breaks down as follows: housing and regeneration £4.5bn, transport £2.8bn and economic development £2bn.

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CONSULTATION CONTINUES ON SITE OF YEOVIL ECO-EXTENSION
18 March 2010

The next stage of consultation has begun on options for the best location for a proposed eco-friendly urban extension in Yeovil. South Somerset District Council, which is planning for an extension to Yeovil to cater for a growing local need for housing, employment and facilities, has successfully secured £730,000 towards planning studies and masterplanning for a world-leading eco development on the edge of the town. The eco development would include at least 40 per cent open space and parkland, high quality zero-carbon homes, employment, local services and facilities onsite for its residents, with plentiful opportunities for walking and cycling, less traffic congestion and state of the art technologies for handling water and waste. Although over six months away from firming up any preferred options for a location, the district council has been inviting representatives from Yeovil Town Council and every parish council neighbouring Yeovil to discuss broad 'search areas' in which a development could go. Councillor Peter Seib, South Somerset District Council portfolio holder for economic development, planning and transport, said: "We've held two workshops at the very start of the identification process that, after consultation this summer, will finally whittle down a preferred location that may be suitable for a development built to Eco Town standards. "To start, town and parish councillors came up with six possible 'search areas' around the entire circumference of Yeovil and our district council officers then looked at a set of criteria to recommend the three stronger areas out of that six. "Officers undertook a sustainability assessment; as required by regulation, to narrow down those options, taking into account factors such as the proximity to the town centre, facilities and employment, transport links and congestion, landscape and open space and other planning factors." The initial studies, carried out by district council officers with information from county council highways, recommended that areas to the South, South East and South West of Yeovil could be the best three search areas to now discuss in more detail. The district council, which has been working and consulting upon a 'Core Strategy' which will plan where development will go across South Somerset until 2026, will now begin to feed these suggestions into the core strategy ready for extensive public consultation in the summer. Public consultation scheduled this summer will be a comprehensive engagement of all parts of the community.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
18 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 Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. Sedgefield Borough Homes is seeking a Head of Property and Development, salary £55,876. For more information, go to: northeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: March 24. Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. Shelter Scotland is seeking a Empty Homes Co-ordinator, £31,838, Location flexible within Scotland. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: 26 March 2010. Manor Estates Housing Association is seeking a Technical Inspector, Salary (from 1st April 2010) £27,190 - £29,911. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: noon on March 29. 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: HEAD OF PROPERTY & DEVELOPMENT
19 March 2010

SBH………with the Community at Heart Head of Property and Development Salary £55,876 plus 2% car allowance and attractive benefits At SBH we’re proud of our services. That’s because we are committed to putting the community at heart. We’ve established a strong partnership approach and we believe that no matter how good we are there’s always room for improvement. That’s where you come in. Dynamic and focused you will have a strong vision and the leadership skills to drive through change whilst continuing to deliver our successful improvement programmes. You’ll need to demonstrate a proven track record in Property Services, will have knowledge of Regeneration and Development and will have all-important strategic know-how. So there’s never been a better place to make a difference. For more information please contact Human Resources on 0845 505 5500 ext 4313. The closing date for this post is Wednesday 24 March 2010. Please return completed application forms to the address stated or alternatively send to maria.ord@sedgefieldboroughhomes.co.uk.

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GO-AHEAD FOR DULVERTON AFFORDABLE HOMES
19 March 2010

A new development of 12 affordable homes in Dulverton has been given the green light after a planning application was approved by Exmoor National Park. The proposals for the redevelopment of land in Barnes Close, submitted by Devonshire Homes in partnership with Magna West Somerset Housing Association, will see a scheme of a dozen new two and three-bedroom homes built for rent by local people. It is expected the Tiverton-based house builder will begin construction work on the development shortly. Magna West Somerset will then take over the management of the scheme. The application for the Barnes Close development was submitted under the National Park’s exception policy, which means that while outside the settlement boundary, the land could be developed to provide affordable housing. Steve Russell, Devonshire Homes land and planning director, said: “After much hard work, we are delighted with the result and are pleased to now be able to assist in the delivery of much-needed affordable homes for the area. “Most importantly, the scheme will provide a valuable opportunity for a number of local families to be able to continue to live in their local area. “Having worked with Magna West Somerset on previous occasions, this most recent success is testament to our positive and proactive working relationship – one which we are certain will continue. “Once we have finalised all legal agreements, we’ll be looking to make a start on-site in the summer.”

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SIDMOUTH HOMES PLAN RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL
19 March 2010

Plans to replace a building and 22 town-centre parking spaces in Sidmouth with a dozen affordable homes have moved a step closer to coming to fruition. A decision over proposals by developer Devon and Cornwall Housing Association to build apartments at a site adjacent Mill Street and Holmdale has been delegated to the East Devon District Council's (EDDC) head of housing after gaining backing from planning committee members. Council planning experts have recommended the bid for approval. Objectors to the plans had registered concerns over a loss of parking, traffic fears, noise and over development of the area. Rob Finch, from developer Devon and Cornwall Housing, said it was a "high quality proposal" Councillor Frances Newth added: "Our number one priority is affordable housing. A loss of parking spaces for permit holders is regrettable. ”The long-term future of our town is in jeopardy because a lot of young people are being forced out due to a lack of affordable homes.”

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THAMES VALLEY HOUSING LAUNCHES 100% MORTGAGE
19 March 2010

Thames Valley Housing (TVH) is helping struggling would-be homeowners onto the property ladder, through the launch of its own 100 per cent mortgage. The three-year fixed rate product is available on selected TVH shared ownership properties. Geeta Nanda, TVH CEO, said: “Shared ownership is a vital intermediate market product, for which we are continuing to see increasing customer demand. “Despite this, many of our prospective buyers have been unable to secure a conventional mortgage due to a lack of deposit. “In our commitment to helping those in housing need, we felt compelled to launch our own mortgage product to ensure that we could assist those who are otherwise left out in the cold. “Why should only those with parents able to help with deposits be able to buy?” The mortgage will enable successful applicants to buy a share of a TVH home without having to save for a deposit. Applicants will be subject to stringent affordability criteria, which will be assessed by an Independent Financial Advisor (IFA). Unlike conventional 100 per cent mortgages, TVH’s product covers as little as a 25 per cent share of the value of the property, reducing the risks to the customer and the association. Ms Nanda added: “The product offers real flexibility to our customers; if they wish to make overpayments they can do so without penalty. “We’re even offering added piece of mind through a three-year buy-back guarantee, under which we promise to buy back their home if they chose to sell it and face negative equity.”

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TOOLS OF THE TRADE FOR NEWPORT CITY HOMES TRAINEES
19 March 2010

Robert Price Builders’ Merchants has presented sets of trade tools to three building trainees currently working for Newport City Homes (NCH) as part of Newport City Council’s Future Jobs Fund project. The scheme, designed to give individuals who have been claiming Job Seekers Allowance for between 39 and 51 weeks, gives them the opportunity to gain much needed work experience and assist them in their search for full time employment. Since November 2009, NCH trainees Abey Gulard has been gaining experience as a window fitter, Chris Berry as a carpenter and Jamie Nicholas as a painter and decorator. Chris said: "I am really grateful to have been given this chance to gain real work experience with NCH. The tools supplied by Robert Price will help me so much in developing my skills, and I hope to be able to find a full time job in Newport when I have completed my training". Mervyn Green, head of property investment at NCH, said: "We are so grateful to Robert Price for donating these tools to our trainees. “Not only are they important in developing their skills during their training, they will benefit them enormously by helping them to secure full time employment". The hands-on experience that the Future Jobs trainees have gained has been bolstered by a structured training programme run by NCH which included the completion of an application form, learning CV skills, receiving careers advice, attending workshops and participating in mock interviews. A fourth trainee, David Turberville, who gained experience as an electrician has already been successful in finding employment with a local company. Emma Parkes, marketing manager of Robert Price Builders’ Merchants, added: "We were delighted to agree to help with this project when NCH approached us in December last year. “As a local company, the majority of our customers come from the local community as well as all of our staff. We are therefore very aware of our responsibility to the communities within which we operate. “This scheme enables us to give something real and useful to the community of Newport as well as the construction industry which has been hit so hard during the recent recession."

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COASTLINE HOUSING NAMES ‘EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR’
19 March 2010

The votes have been counted and verified, the discussions and deliberations have taken place, and Coastline Housing staff have revealed their ‘Employee of the Year’ is IT technician Barry Cox. Mr Cox, who helps provide technical support to colleagues across the company as well as working on major IT projects, was presented with his Employee of the Year trophy by chief executive Robert Nettleton. Barry Cox, left, is presented with his award by Robert Nettleton Coastline’s Employee Recognition Awards were set up to recognise members of staff who go above and beyond their job descriptions and are thought of as all round good colleagues. David Wingham, director of corporate services at Coastline, said: “Barry is a great colleague to work with. Nothing is too much trouble for him and he always has a smile on his face. “Working with people like Barry makes going to work a pleasure and we wanted to give special colleagues like him some special recognition with our newly launched employee awards.”

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
19 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. 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. Sedgefield Borough Homes is seeking a Head of Property and Development, salary £55,876. For more information, go to: northeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: March 24. Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. Shelter Scotland is seeking a Empty Homes Co-ordinator, £31,838, Location flexible within Scotland. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: 26 March 2010. Manor Estates Housing Association is seeking a Technical Inspector, Salary (from 1st April 2010) £27,190 - £29,911. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: noon on March 29. 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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