TOP JOB: VOLUNTARY BOARD MEMBER
19 July 2010

Our goal at North Devon Homes is to ensure that our customers and staff recognise us as an organisation that delivers amazing service and is a great place to work. We are looking for a Board Member to join our board of 12 to help us deliver this goal and make a real difference to our 10,000 customers across North Devon. We own 3,200 homes and employ 100 staff who make a positive and lasting change to the rural communities across our region. As a forward thinking and innovative business you can expect to get a lot of value out of a position on our Board. The role will be a real opportunity to challenge your thinking and develop your own skills and experience as you help us shape our business in a fast changing environment. At this time we are looking to replace a Board Member with financial expertise and, ideally, with financial knowledge in the RSL sector. We hold up to eight meetings a year and meet on a Monday evening in Barnstaple, North Devon. The position is unpaid although reasonable travelling expenses are reimbursed. We want to ensure that our Board reflects the community we serve and we welcome applications from all sectors of the community. For more information on our exciting work and how we are changing lives, please see our website www.yourlocallandord.com. Please email Lucy Duchesne for an application pack lucy.duchesne@ndh-ltd.co.uk or telephone Martyn Gimber on 01271 312505 for more information or to discuss the position informally. Closing date for applications 31 July 2010.

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HAB OAKUS TO PARTNER COMMUNITY-LED DEVELOPMENT
19 July 2010

Ground-breaking proposals to develop environmentally sustainable, community-owned housing on land owned by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) are to be delivered by a partnership led by TV presenter Kevin McCloud. The national housing and regeneration agency has identified Hab Oakus, a joint venture between Mr McCloud’s company Hab and housing group GreenSquare, as the delivery partner to work up detailed plans to develop a former hospital site in Cashes Green, Stroud, Gloucestershire. Kevin McCloud, Greensquare chief David Asmore and Grant Shapps at The Triangle The agreement sees Hab Oakus work alongside the Community Land Trust, Gloucestershire Land for People (GLP), local residents and stakeholders to develop a full planning application for a comprehensive redevelopment of the site to include 78 new homes, allotments and a community building. Under the proposals, GLP will own and manage 39 of these homes, which will be available for affordable rent and part ownership. The remaining homes will be made available for sale on the open market by Hab Oakus. It is the first time a housing-focused Community Land Trust proposal will be delivered on HCA-owned land. As part of the agreement, Hab Oakus will construct all 78 new homes to Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. Mr McCloud said: “This will be an exemplar project, which has the local community at its core. “This is a scheme that could show how future housing developments, driven by local communities, could be unlocked. “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work on such an important project.” Hab Oakus’ bid was one of eight submissions considered by the HCA, who looked at scheme quality, financial viability and the ability to integrate the Community Land Trust model into the development. GLP chairman, Max Comfort added: “This is a massive step forward in the development of the Cashes Green site. “We are really pleased to be able to work with Hab Oakus, and thank the HCA for its support on helping us get the project to this stage. “We are looking forward to playing our part in what is – quite rightly – a flagship for delivering affordable housing in England.” Stroud District Council worked closely with the HCA and GLP to help get the project off the ground. Councillor Debbie Young, cabinet member for housing, said: "Affordable housing and the environment are key priorities for the council and local people. Innovative sustainable developments really are the way forward for housing. We're looking forward to seeing this exciting project come to fruition." HCA head of area, David Warburton added: “This is an important project, and I am delighted we have been able to help find a way to support the Community Land Trust realise the ambitions of the local community to deliver much needed housing on this derelict site.” It is expected that a full planning application will be submitted for the site later this year. The HCA is presently a partner in Hab Oakus’ plans to build more than 40 new homes in The Triangle, Swindon.

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RAGLAN BOARD MEMBERS TOUR NEW HOMES SCHEMES
19 July 2010

A Raglan board away-day visiting the housing association’s new developments in the South West provided the ideal opportunity for a 'topping out' ceremony at The Creamery, Sturminster Newton. Raglan chair George Blunden, assisted by resident board member Janet Weston, took advantage to get a bird's-eye view of the work in progress and fix the final ridge tile on a terrace of town houses. The mix of flats and houses for rent and shared ownership sale will complete a phase of redevelopment of the site that offers a mix of affordable and private homes and includes commercial units and a private residential care home. The development has been designed in keeping with neighbouring properties and is the latest to be built in partnership with the Highwood Group.

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TAI CEREDIGION SECURES GREEN ENERGY CASH
19 July 2010

Tai Ceredigion has succeeded with its application for £550,000 of funding from the Welsh Assembly Government ‘Arbed’ programme to help fund their green energy improvement projects in the regeneration area on the association's estates in Aberystwyth. The new not-for-profit housing association is the first in West Wales to secure such a grant and is pioneering the use of green energy for rural housing through microgeneration measures. These improvements will include the installation of external wall insulation as well as fuel switching from electricity to gas which will all benefit tenants, leaseholders and private owners by saving them money on their energy bills. Adding external wall insulation to homes will help to heat them more efficiently and could cut heating costs by up to 40 per cent. The association has sustainability and green initiatives at its core, and has explored ways to be more sustainable by providing low carbon solutions for electricity, heating and hot water for its tenants and leaseholders. Tai Ceredigion's chief executive, Steve Jones said: "We are delighted to have secured this grant as we urgently need to bring affordable warmth to our housing stock and want to supply the best for our tenants and leaseholders by reducing energy bills without having an effect on the environment. “We believe sourcing a sustainable energy solution not only for today but for the future is essential." Arbed, the strategic energy performance investment programme for the Welsh Assembly Government has been established to help fund home energy efficiency and renewable energy retrofit projects to fuel-poor and low-income households within Regeneration Areas. Environment Minister, Jane Davidson added: "Wales is leading the way with Arbed. It is an innovative scheme that focuses on making homes in some of Wales' most deprived areas much more energy efficient. “Not only with this help reduce fuel costs for those that need it most, it will also help us to drastically reduce carbon emissions and ensure the creation of new job and training opportunities throughout Wales. "I am delighted that householders in Ceredigion will feel the benefits of warmer homes and lower fuel bills, not just in the short term, but for years to come." Tai Ceredigion is working in partnership with not for profit company Warm Wales, n power, the Energy Saving Trust, and the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) to deliver their promises as nearly 2,500 homes in the county need to be brought up to the Welsh Housing Quality Standard. Over the next five years, Tai Ceredigion will spend £40 million bringing them up to that standard. Their 30-year business plan will also see £136 million investment in maintaining them.

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NEW CREDIT UNION COLLECTION POINT FOR TROWBRIDGE
19 July 2010

Selwood Housing and West Wiltshire Credit Union have joined forces to provide another collection point in Trowbridge, making accessing the credit union easier and available to more people. Selwood Housing tenants and people of West Wiltshire can now access the credit union's services each Tuesday from 12 noon - 2 pm at Selwood Housing's office reception, located on the Bryer Ash Business Park next to the Trowbridge railway station. John Alford, chair of Selwood Housing, said: "We have developed a close working relationship with the credit union over the past few years and have wholeheartedly supported their work by donating money to help them expand their service and regularly promoting what they do. "West Wilts Credit Union provides valuable services to our tenants and people in Wiltshire, including a place to save, low interest loans, a budgeting payment service and access to emergency loans. "We have been working to make these services accessible to all our tenants by helping organise collection points close to our neighbourhoods and now by opening this new point at our office." Credit unions are community-based local savings and loan schemes. Managed and run by trained volunteers, credit unions offer people who live or work in the area a chance to save regularly – by cash, standing order, payroll deduction or at a collection point – and to borrow at a reasonable rate of interest.

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CHARITIES BENEFIT FROM FOSSEWAY LIVING CLEAR-OUT
19 July 2010

Charity workers joined the growing line-up of investors and potential developers showing a keen interest in what turned out to be one of Cirencester’s hottest properties – not as potential purchasers, but to help affordable housing provider Fosseway Living clear the decks at a former supported housing scheme for elderly people at Barton Court, Gloucester Street. The decision to put the property on the market at a guide price of £1.5 million sparked a mini media frenzy with local and national newspapers, radio and TV reporting – with more than a bit of journalistic licence – “an entire historic street up for sale”. The publicity attracted extra potential buyers – but local charities were more interested in the furniture, electric cooker and assorted bric-a-brac that had been left behind by former occupiers at the 25 small flats, a former butcher’s shop and separate cottage. The task of making sure that the unwanted goodies went to good causes fell to Clare Bartlett, a neighbourhood relations advisor with Fosseway, part of Bromford Group, who sorted out the most suitable stuff for charities and made sure that the rest was recycled or disposed of properly. She said: “Various bits of furniture and belongings had been left behind and we wanted to make sure that anything in good condition went to good causes. “We even organised a Fosseway van to take some of the furniture to one of the charities – Cirencester Housing for Young People (CHYP). “It’s an easy thing to do and we know that all of the items will either be put to good use by vulnerable people in Cirencester or sold in charity shops to raise money.” The Barton Court disposal is part of a long-term plan to realise the value of older, less suitable Fosseway properties that are relatively expensive to manage. Savings and money from the sale will be re-invested in building and maintaining modern homes – and improving customer services. The half-acre site is being marketed by property consultants Bruton Knowles and, according to agent Robert Anthony, there is strong potential for would-be buyers including possible redevelopment – subject to approval from the local planning authority.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
19 July 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager, based in Sevenoaks, salary £49,201. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31. The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20. Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager, based in Elgin, salary up to £41221 plus car/car allowance. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager (Permanent Position), Lochgilphead, Salary Grade 3 (£37985-£42206 per annum), plus excellent benefits including final salary pension, 35 hours per week. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. TENDERS Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6. Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19. St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19. Cardiff Community Housing Association is inviting tenders for the Integrate Development Framework. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southwest. Closing date: July 16. Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17. 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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TOP JOB: VOLUNTARY BOARD MEMBER
20 July 2010

Our goal at North Devon Homes is to ensure that our customers and staff recognise us as an organisation that delivers amazing service and is a great place to work. We are looking for a Board Member to join our board of 12 to help us deliver this goal and make a real difference to our 10,000 customers across North Devon. We own 3,200 homes and employ 100 staff who make a positive and lasting change to the rural communities across our region. As a forward thinking and innovative business you can expect to get a lot of value out of a position on our Board. The role will be a real opportunity to challenge your thinking and develop your own skills and experience as you help us shape our business in a fast changing environment. At this time we are looking to replace a Board Member with financial expertise and, ideally, with financial knowledge in the RSL sector. We hold up to eight meetings a year and meet on a Monday evening in Barnstaple, North Devon. The position is unpaid although reasonable travelling expenses are reimbursed. We want to ensure that our Board reflects the community we serve and we welcome applications from all sectors of the community. For more information on our exciting work and how we are changing lives, please see our website www.yourlocallandord.com. Please email Lucy Duchesne for an application pack lucy.duchesne@ndh-ltd.co.uk or telephone Martyn Gimber on 01271 312505 for more information or to discuss the position informally. Closing date for applications 31 July 2010.

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HOMES IN SEDGEMEOOR CELEBRATES SUPPORTED HOUSING TRANSFORMATION
20 July 2010

Homes in Sedgemoor has held a tea party to welcome back supported housing residents from Francis Bastin House and to celebrate the completion of the newly fitted one-bedroom flats. Earlier in the year some residents had been moved out of the Supported Housing scheme into temporary accommodation, so that large-scale works could take place to turn their old bedsits into completely new one-bedroom flats. The tea party was also a thank you from Homes in Sedgemoor to some residents who had lived with the building works. Gray Orr, chief executive of Homes in Sedgemoor, said: “Projects like this take a huge amount of planning and organisation, and so it’s hugely rewarding to see that the end result is so well received by our customers.” The works that were completed in less than six months also included the fitting of new bathrooms, and new carpets. Staff and residents at Francis Bastin are thrilled with the overhaul, and looking forward to settling into their new homes. Harry Ackers, a resident at Francis Bastin House, said: “The temporary accommodation I moved to was a very nice bungalow, but I was so happy to move back. It was like moving to a palace, it’s so nice here now.”

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SOCIAL HOUSING IN EXETER HIT BY PUBLIC SPENDING SQUEEZE
20 July 2010

Exeter City Council has revealed that cuts in public spending has left housing associations struggling to build any more social housing. Four schemes which would have been built with public funds and run by Sovereign Housing Association on redundant council land at Shakespeare Road, Leypark Road, Wonford Street and Beacon Lane shops have stalled because of lack of funding. The projects would have created 51 new homes for families on the council's waiting list. There are 6,300 households on the housing register, and a further 53 homes for social housing in the planning system which could be under threat. Labour city councillor Rob Hannaford said Exeter would be unable to meet its commitments for new social housing because of a lack of funding. And he questioned whether the city could fulfil its promise to provide at least 100 new affordable housing units in the current financial year. Councillor Hannaford said: "These massive cuts for much-needed new affordable housing in Exeter are a complete disgrace when we have 6,000 people on the council's housing waiting list. "Indeed, this will only become much worse and more severe because an increased number of people will need extra help with housing, because of job losses, proposed housing benefit cuts and the coalition government's general hard right wing slash and burn economics. "Building more affordable housing in Exeter benefits the whole city. More people in need get housed, it helps those in private rented accommodation by driving up standards and choice, and it improves social cohesion. "It also helps pump prime the whole local economy as it provides more employment in construction jobs, and also gives a boost to local tradespeople." A spokesman for the city council said that between April 1 this year and March 31 2012, it was expected that at least 230 affordable homes would be completed. He said some schemes were due to complete in March/April 2011 and it was not possible to be precise about predicted completions in the next financial year. But he also confirmed that the council did not have the money to fund Sovereign Housing Association's four schemes for social rent. Most of that funding would normally come from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). The spokesman said that the current squeeze on public spending could hit tenants who were waiting for council accommodation. He said: "The availability of public subsidy for unfunded affordable housing schemes in the pipeline is uncertain. "It is expected that the position will become clearer following the Comprehensive Spending Review in the autumn. "Should there be no subsidy available, this will seriously threaten the council's ability to produce social rented accommodation for the 6,300 households who are on its housing register."

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RIDGEWAY OFFERS FREE REPAIRS SERVICE
20 July 2010

Free labour for home repairs is being offered to the over-60s by a housing association. Handihelp, run by Devizes-based Ridgeway Care & Repair, aims to help people all over Wiltshire, including those with disabilities of any age, by giving them two hours’ help with small jobs, although there will be a charge for materials. Services include electrical work, plumbing and drainage, home security, clearing rooms and lofts, organising home moves and making homes warmer, as well as putting up curtains, shelves and pictures, re-hanging doors or tiling small areas. Lee Davies, social enterprise manager for Ridgeway Care & Repair, said: “Handihelp is about improving the quality of life and helping people keep their independence for as long as possible. “If we can do small repairs to make homes safer and warmer, or simply more comfortable to live in, this can reduce potential health problems or accidents.” The service is available to those on low-income or disability-related benefits. Residents do not have to be with housing associations to apply. The service, which is paid for by Wiltshire Council, has already helped 74 people. If a job goes on longer than the two free hours, it will be charged at £20 an hour.

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COMMUNITY HOUSING CYMRU WELCOMES SPENDING PLEDGE
20 July 2010

Community Housing Cymru has welcomed an announcement by Budget Minister Jane Hutt that the Welsh Assembly Government is to ring-fence Welsh Capital Expenditure and absorb the bulk of spending cuts this year. The Minister ended speculation that Wales might follow Scotland in deferring £163m budget cuts until next year by saying that WAG would take as much as they could without harming frontline services. She also announced capital investment in housing, education, health and social care are to be protected using unspent funds – amounting to around £49m of projects. Nick Bennett, chief executive of Community Housing Cymru, said it was vital that the capital housing projects were safeguarded. He said: "We are glad that we have seen the protection of these capital projects this year as it would have been very painful for some of these projects, which are on site now. "Given that the sector directly employs 5,000 and indirectly 15,000 and these projects make up an £80m programme, we think we can put up a very good case for sustaining the investment in social housing in Wales beyond this year."

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MELIN HOMES GROUNDFORCE TEAM GETS TO WORK
20 July 2010

Residents of Coed Eva and Fairwater in Cwmbran can now benefit from a new Melin Groundforce team, which has been funded by the Government’s Future Jobs Fund and managed by Melin Homes. A new Groundforce team was launched on Saturday at an event held at the Coed Eva and Hollybush Community Centre and many residents turned up to meet the team and join in all the fun activities. The Coed Eva and Fairwater Groundforce follows on from the success of the Trevethin Groundforce and works in the same way. They will provide free gardening and landscaping services to anyone who lives in Coed Eva and Fairwater. Mark Gardner, chief executive of Melin Homes, said: “We were only too happy to help when Councillors Cross and Rees approached us after they heard about the great work we were doing in Trevethin. A large part of our work involves helping communities, which is exactly what the Groundforce teams do.” Councillor Fiona Cross, who was the driving force behind getting the team set up in her ward, added: “We heard about the good work Trevethin Groundforce was doing and asked Melin if they could do the same for us in Coed Eva and Fairwater. “I know of many local residents who will benefit from this scheme and the boys started taking bookings at the launch on Saturday. “ Councillor Jeff Rees said: “I am confident that once people get to hear about this great, free service, the Groundforce team will be fully booked in a very short time.”

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
20 July 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager, based in Sevenoaks, salary £49,201. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31. The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20. Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager, based in Elgin, salary up to £41221 plus car/car allowance. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager (Permanent Position), Lochgilphead, Salary Grade 3 (£37985-£42206 per annum), plus excellent benefits including final salary pension, 35 hours per week. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. TENDERS Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6. Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19. St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19. Cardiff Community Housing Association is inviting tenders for the Integrate Development Framework. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southwest. Closing date: July 16. Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17. 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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TOP JOB: VOLUNTARY BOARD MEMBER
21 July 2010

Our goal at North Devon Homes is to ensure that our customers and staff recognise us as an organisation that delivers amazing service and is a great place to work. We are looking for a Board Member to join our board of 12 to help us deliver this goal and make a real difference to our 10,000 customers across North Devon. We own 3,200 homes and employ 100 staff who make a positive and lasting change to the rural communities across our region. As a forward thinking and innovative business you can expect to get a lot of value out of a position on our Board. The role will be a real opportunity to challenge your thinking and develop your own skills and experience as you help us shape our business in a fast changing environment. At this time we are looking to replace a Board Member with financial expertise and, ideally, with financial knowledge in the RSL sector. We hold up to eight meetings a year and meet on a Monday evening in Barnstaple, North Devon. The position is unpaid although reasonable travelling expenses are reimbursed. We want to ensure that our Board reflects the community we serve and we welcome applications from all sectors of the community. For more information on our exciting work and how we are changing lives, please see our website www.yourlocallandord.com. Please email Lucy Duchesne for an application pack lucy.duchesne@ndh-ltd.co.uk or telephone Martyn Gimber on 01271 312505 for more information or to discuss the position informally. Closing date for applications 31 July 2010.

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GUINNESS HERMITAGE BEGINS WORK ON CHEDDAR HOMES
21 July 2010

Building work has begun on scores of much-needed affordable new homes in a Somerset village, as part of a drive to increase access to housing for local people in the county. Representatives from the Homes and Communities Agency, First Step Homes and Sedgemoor District Council met with Nikki Tillet and Syb Bailey from the Guinness Hermitage development team to mark the start of work on site. Local housing provider Guinness Hermitage, a member of the Guinness Partnership, is working with First Step Homes on the construction of 67 new homes in Helliers Lane, Cheddar. The ambitious development, intended specifically for local residents, is being delivered in partnership with Sedgemoor’s Affordable Housing Team, Cheddar Parish Council, the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and development partners First Step Homes and Guinness Hermitage. It will include units ranging from two- to four-bedroom houses and one- and two-bedroom flats. The new homes will be built to level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, which means that all aspects of the properties and their construction are designed to be at least 25 per cent more efficient than traditionally-built new housing. High property prices and a shortage of affordable housing in this area have made it increasingly difficult for people in Cheddar to access a home within their means, making this development all the more important for the community. Sedgemoor’s affordable housing development manager, Duncan Harvey said: It’s great to see this much needed development finally under way. Not only should we welcome these 67 new homes, we should recognise the contribution it makes to the wider physical regeneration of Cheddar and the timely boost to the local economy during this testing times.” The HCA has supported this development by investing around £2.5m through the National Affordable Housing Programme. It is working with local authorities and their partners to develop a long-term Local Investment Plan for Somerset, which will outline priorities for investment in future years, Steve Jackson, HCA area manager, added: “All the partners involved in this project have worked extremely hard to deliver this project for local people in Cheddar. “Investing in affordable housing in areas where they are most needed is a real priority for us; this development is a great step towards achieving this aim in this part of Somerset. “I am delighted that work is underway and am looking forward to seeing the homes complete.”

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PLYMOUTH COMMUNITY HOMES MAKES POSITIVE CHANGES IN DEVONPORT
21 July 2010

A Plymouth Community Homes team has joined forces with other local agencies to make a difference to the lives of residents in Devonport. The multi-agency team have just completed the Granby Street improvement project. Aimed at transforming what had been labelled ‘the forgotten flats’, saw a blitz of action on cleaning, repairs, painting and decoration. More than just a cosmetic makeover, the project brought together residents and local agencies, enabling the wider community to help create lasting change for the area. The area has been troubled by problems around drugs and anti-social behaviour. By working with agencies ranging from the police to Plymouth College of Art and Design, the project has tried to kick-start of a process of positive change that will have a lasting impact. Steve Ford, area housing manager, said: "This project has been about bringing people together, listening to what residents want, and empowering the neighbourhood to make lasting change." Gavin West, housing officer, added: "All of these changes have been about what residents have told us needed to happen. “Whether it’s a lick of paint or a hanging basket, it is really a story of local people restoring pride in Granby."

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NEWPORT HOUSING SCHEME WINS ‘LOW/ZERO CARBON AWARD’
21 July 2010

The largest sustainable new housing development in Wales has been presented with the ‘Low/Zero Carbon Award’ by Constructing Excellence in Wales at its annual awards. Mariners Quay, which is being constructed at the former Newport Old Town Dock, constructed by the Leadbitter Group for local housing association Seren Group, took the first ever Low/Zero Carbon Award. Picture: (left to right) Neil Barber and Rhys Parry of Fairlake, part of the Seren Group, and Russell Houghton of the Leadbitter Group with the Low/Zero Carbon Award won by the Mariners Quay development in Newport. The award seeks to recognise a company, project or initiative that has made a significant contribution to the carbon reduction agenda for construction. Here the judges were looking for a project where a measurable reduction in the carbon footprint has been, or will be achieved in the construction process over and above the statutory requirements. They were looking for a carbon reduction strategy to be embedded within the entire project and Mariners Quay fitted the bill perfectly. Russell Houghton, regional director of Leadbitter's Western Housing division, said: "It was our Client, Seren Group, that from day one had the vision of making Mariners Quay an exemplar affordable-and sustainable-housing development. "With their support and encouragement, Leadbitter has been able to build on that vision, implementing our project waste management plan to ensure we are not only delivering high quality sustainable homes, but that we are eliminating waste and working in a sustainable way during the construction process."

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NEW PLANNING ADVICE TO BOOST AFFORDABLE HOUSING
21 July 2010

New planning guidance that will boost the rural economy and increase the provision of affordable housing in Wales has been launched by the Welsh Assembly Government. Environment Minister, Jane Davidson was at the Royal Welsh Show to launch Technical Advice Note 6 (TAN 6) - Planning for Sustainable Rural Communities. The guidance will make it easier for businesses to set up in rural areas and should help enterprises already located in the countryside to grow. It relaxes control over development in the countryside whilst still ensuring that a measured approach is taken. Another benefit of the guidance is that it will make it easier for farmers to build a new home on their land so that they can pass their business on to a younger person, whilst continuing to live on the farm. The TAN also supports the Assembly Government's Sustainable Development scheme by encouraging One Planet Developments that have a low environmental impact. Speaking at the event, Ms Davidson said: "The planning system must respond to the needs of rural communities. It must help ensure that appropriate development takes place at the right place and time, by providing sufficient land for the affordable homes and employment opportunities that our rural communities need. "The guidance published today looks to do just that. It ensures the right environment to allow rural businesses to invest and grow in order to provide local employment opportunities, increase local prosperity and reduce the need for travel to work. "It also supports our existing plans for affordable rural housing by encouraging local authorities and landowners to identify sites for development and adopting a wide ranging approach to delivery of the policy. " I am delighted that TAN 6 also supports One Planet developments, such as Lammas, that have a low environmental impact and provide an excellent model for how we can live truly sustainable lives in the future."

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EXPANSION PLANS FOR TATE ST IVES
21 July 2010

Tate St Ives, the Cornish branch of the Tate art gallery, is to go ahead with expansion plans after reaching a deal with Cornwall Council and the Penwith Housing Association (PHA). The council announced its purchase of the land alongside the existing gallery this week. New gallery spaces and art handling facilities will allow Tate St Ives to offer a more ambitious mixed programme of St Ives and national collection displays, alongside national and international exhibitions. Mark Osterfield, executive director, Tate St Ives, added: "Tate St Ives has spent the last few years working with Cornwall Council, St Ives Town Council and the wider community, to find a way of ensuring that the gallery builds on its success for the future benefit of Cornwall and its communities. "The acquisition of this site will enable us to create new facilities which meet the needs and concerns of the people of St Ives, whilst delivering a bold new vision for the people of Cornwall. “I am very grateful to St Ives Town Council and Cornwall Council for their leadership in laying the foundations for a successful project."

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
21 July 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager, based in Sevenoaks, salary £49,201. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31. The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20. Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager, based in Elgin, salary up to £41221 plus car/car allowance. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager (Permanent Position), Lochgilphead, Salary Grade 3 (£37985-£42206 per annum), plus excellent benefits including final salary pension, 35 hours per week. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. TENDERS Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6. Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19. St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19. Cardiff Community Housing Association is inviting tenders for the Integrate Development Framework. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southwest. Closing date: July 16. Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17. 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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TOP JOB: VOLUNTARY BOARD MEMBER
22 July 2010

Our goal at North Devon Homes is to ensure that our customers and staff recognise us as an organisation that delivers amazing service and is a great place to work. We are looking for a Board Member to join our board of 12 to help us deliver this goal and make a real difference to our 10,000 customers across North Devon. We own 3,200 homes and employ 100 staff who make a positive and lasting change to the rural communities across our region. As a forward thinking and innovative business you can expect to get a lot of value out of a position on our Board. The role will be a real opportunity to challenge your thinking and develop your own skills and experience as you help us shape our business in a fast changing environment. At this time we are looking to replace a Board Member with financial expertise and, ideally, with financial knowledge in the RSL sector. We hold up to eight meetings a year and meet on a Monday evening in Barnstaple, North Devon. The position is unpaid although reasonable travelling expenses are reimbursed. We want to ensure that our Board reflects the community we serve and we welcome applications from all sectors of the community. For more information on our exciting work and how we are changing lives, please see our website www.yourlocallandord.com. Please email Lucy Duchesne for an application pack lucy.duchesne@ndh-ltd.co.uk or telephone Martyn Gimber on 01271 312505 for more information or to discuss the position informally. Closing date for applications 31 July 2010.

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RAGLAN RESIDENTS TO BENEFIT FROM SOLAR POWER HEATING
22 July 2010

A new £4m affordable housing scheme with solar water heating and heat recovery system that can drastically cut costs for residents has been opened in Amesbury. Sandell Place is Raglan Housing Association’s first scheme to be completed with Wiltshire Council and provides a mix of 32 one- and two-bedroom flats. Water heating savings of over 60 per cent in winter and 90 per cent in the summer are possible and the high levels of insulation make the homes cheaper to heat as well. Mrs Pamela Sandell was on hand to cut the ribbon with Mayor of Amesbury, Richard Crook. Mrs Sandell’s late husband used to farm the land and the town council wished to pay tribute by naming the development after him. In congratulating Raglan and Orchard Homes for producing a well designed and finished scheme, councillor John Brady from Wiltshire Council said: “With over 11,000 people on the waiting list, we welcome every bit of help to meet this massive problem. “The Sandell Place development in Amesbury provides desirable economic living for the residents in very pleasant surroundings and I hope we can continue to work with Raglan to provide more homes in Wiltshire in the future.”

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BRON AFON TO SLASH HEATING BILLS FOR 800 HOUSEHOLDS
22 July 2010

Over 800 householders in Torfaen are going to save cash on their heating bills over the next few months. Bron Afon Community Housing started improving the inside of homes in 2008. The external improvement programme starts on Monday 26 July with 831 homes being fitted with insulated render to make them more energy efficient. Bron Afon will bring all of its 8,000 homes up to the Welsh Housing Quality Standard before the end of 2012. A total of £4.25m is being spent on this stage of the project with another £21 million being spent before 31 March 2010. The investment will benefit 396 homes in Cwmbran, 304 homes in Pontnewynydd and 131 homes in Blaenavon. Duncan Forbes, chief executive of Bron Afon, said: “We are bucking the trend by creating jobs while the economy is struggling. Our in-house trade staff will carry out a lot of the work but we are also asking our specialist contractors how many new staff they will be taking on this year. “Our total investment for external work in this financial year is £25 million which is probably the largest investment any business is making in Torfaen. “Insulated render is going to help people cut their heating bills by making the walls more energy efficient. Smaller heating bills mean our tenants will have more money in their pocket to spend on other things. “Bron Afon is committed to investing in people, homes and communities in Torfaen. It is showing tenants that we are using their rent to invest in their homes along with creating jobs and making the area a better place to live.”

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GLOS CITY HOMES TENANT WINS ALMO ACCOLADE
22 July 2010

A Gloucester City Homes tenant has been celebrating after being selected as winner of a national award by theNational Federation of ALMOs (NFA), whose 69 member organisations oversee more than one million council owned properties across England. Westgate tenant Maureen (Mo) Norman, who has established a number of initiatives in her time at Gloucester and is a central and well liked figure in the local community, won the 2010 NFA Awards ‘Most Outstanding Resident’. Mo has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of her fellow residents, from setting up a mobility scooter pool for residents to hire, setting up a furniture recycling scheme, to operating drop-ins where residents can get advice on any subject. The winners of the NFA Awards were announced at a ceremony last Thursday night at the Midland Hotel, Manchester. The ‘Most Outstanding Resident’ category celebrated the work of residents within their community, reducing crime, bringing about community cohesion and making a positive difference to their neighbours. Representatives from the 20 short-listed ALMOs across the country gathered for the award ceremony, part of the NFA’s annual two-day conference and AGM before Mo Norman was selected as a winner. Gloucester City Homes head of resident involvement and community investment, said: “I would like to congratulate Mo on her success in receiving this prestigious award. I am delighted that her hard work and dedication in the Westgate community has been recognised in this way.” The awards, hosted by Janet Street-Porter, were judged by an independent panel; Alison Inman, chair of the National Federation of ALMOs; Michael Gelling, chairman of the National Tenant Voice; and Roger Jarman, head of housing at the Audit Commission. Designed to honour and credit the individuals and teams who do so much at ground level and beyond, the awards have been developed to recognise and celebrate the hard work and achievements of the country’s ALMOs – which manage more than one million council homes, over half of all social housing in England.

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SECOND AWARD FOR NEWPORT CITY HOMES TELECARE SERVICE
22 July 2010

Newport City Homes’ Telecare Service has been awarded its second customer service accreditation in two months. The ISO9001:2008 Quality Assurance Standard was successfully awarded in May and was the very first Telecare service to be audited against both British and European standards contained within the new SSAIB Telecare Call Handling Accreditation on in June. Newport Telecare service offers help and assistance on a 24-hour basis to older and vulnerable clients across the city. Clients have the opportunity to contact the Telecare team, via an alarm installed in their home. This enables clients to remain living independently in their own home for longer. Sian Brown, manager of the service, said "The ISO award certify that the Newport Telecare Service has the necessary control procedures, document control and records in place ensuring the service achieves its primary objective of delivering a high quality easily accessible and cost effective service to its 5000 clients across the city.”

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BRISTOL GRANTS SCHEME TO HELP COMMUNITIES GO GREEN
22 July 2010

A new grants scheme set up by Bristol City Council is looking for local groups and residents who need help funding their community projects, such as energy-saving schemes or food growing projects. The Bristol Green Capital Community Challenge Fund will offer grants from as little as £1,000 to over £10,000 to charities, voluntary groups and not-for-profit organisations. Council leader, Barbara Janke said: “We want Bristol to become a low carbon city with a high quality of life and have set a number of targets to reach, including a 40 per cent reduction in the city’s carbon emissions by 2020. “We already have a reputation as a green capital, with a burgeoning green technology sector and the commitment of residents to create a more sustainable lifestyle, and we also have one of the highest numbers of green organisations and community groups in the country. “We saw the need for a small grants programme to help local projects get off the ground and give people the chance to reach new audiences, increase the quality of life in their neighbourhood and cut their carbon emissions. “If you have an idea for a local project, get in touch with our team and see whether you can turn your idea into a reality.” The challenge fund this year has a total pot of £75,000. The application process is designed to be as simple as possible, to make it easy for organisations to apply. Applications will be reviewed by a panel made up of Green Capital Momentum Group members and the relevant cabinet member. Alastair Sawday, chair of the Green Capital Momentum Group, added: “We all know about the problem - we need to cut carbon. “But what are the solutions? So often the best ideas come not from big business or government, but from the grassroots. “Nowhere is this more true than Bristol, a city buzzing with brilliant ideas and actions to make us a greener city. We are delighted the council is investing in this fund.”

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
22 July 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager, based in Sevenoaks, salary £49,201. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31. The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20. Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager, based in Elgin, salary up to £41221 plus car/car allowance. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager (Permanent Position), Lochgilphead, Salary Grade 3 (£37985-£42206 per annum), plus excellent benefits including final salary pension, 35 hours per week. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. TENDERS Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6. Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19. St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19. Cardiff Community Housing Association is inviting tenders for the Integrate Development Framework. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southwest. Closing date: July 16. Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17. 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.

Relevant Links:

TOP JOB: VOLUNTARY BOARD MEMBER
23 July 2010

Our goal at North Devon Homes is to ensure that our customers and staff recognise us as an organisation that delivers amazing service and is a great place to work. We are looking for a Board Member to join our board of 12 to help us deliver this goal and make a real difference to our 10,000 customers across North Devon. We own 3,200 homes and employ 100 staff who make a positive and lasting change to the rural communities across our region. As a forward thinking and innovative business you can expect to get a lot of value out of a position on our Board. The role will be a real opportunity to challenge your thinking and develop your own skills and experience as you help us shape our business in a fast changing environment. At this time we are looking to replace a Board Member with financial expertise and, ideally, with financial knowledge in the RSL sector. We hold up to eight meetings a year and meet on a Monday evening in Barnstaple, North Devon. The position is unpaid although reasonable travelling expenses are reimbursed. We want to ensure that our Board reflects the community we serve and we welcome applications from all sectors of the community. For more information on our exciting work and how we are changing lives, please see our website www.yourlocallandord.com. Please email Lucy Duchesne for an application pack lucy.duchesne@ndh-ltd.co.uk or telephone Martyn Gimber on 01271 312505 for more information or to discuss the position informally. Closing date for applications 31 July 2010.

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WALES: HOUSING AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT LCO GAINS ROYAL ASSENT
23 July 2010

Welsh Deputy Minister for Housing and Regeneration Jocelyn Davies AM has joined with representatives of the housing sector in Wales to express her delight that the Housing and Local Government Legislative Competence Order has received Royal Assent. The approval was granted following a meeting of the Privy Council and means that Wales now has the legislative power to introduce Measures on housing in Wales. A Measure to enable Local Authorities to apply to Welsh Ministers for approval to suspend the Right to Buy in areas of housing pressure and provide Welsh Ministers with a broad range of intervention powers that are essential to strengthen the regulation of Registered Social Landlords will now be brought forward in the Autumn. The Deputy Minister said: “I am delighted that The Housing and Local Government LCO’s three year journey is finally over and I’d like to thank all my officials, my colleagues and the Welsh Housing sector for their hard work and unwavering support throughout the process. “We’re now in a position where we will be able to introduce a Measure, which has the overwhelming support of the Welsh Housing Sector, in the Autumn. I am delighted that we will finally be able to bring this legislation forward for the people of Wales.” Joy Kent, director of Cymorth Cymru said: “It’s important to us that decisions about how best to meet the needs of people who are vulnerable because they are homeless or have support needs are made here in Wales, not in Westminster. “We’re really pleased that by all working together, the Assembly and organisations like Cymorth Cymru have made this a possibility and we’re looking forward to working with the Deputy Minister and others to use these new powers to help as many people as possible find and keep a home and build the life they aspire to.” Keith Edwards, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Housing said: “It is excellent news that housing powers are being transferred to Cardiff. Given the scale of the housing challenge we face, this provides a great opportunity to develop Welsh solutions and create a housing system that is fit for purpose in the future.” John Puzey, director of Shelter Cymru, said: “It is great news that the Welsh Government finally has the powers it needs to effectively tackle homelessness and address the housing needs of people in Wales. Reaching this milestone is a real achievement, especially after such a long and difficult process. “The continuing impact of the recession and the severe spending cuts announced in the recent UK budget are likely to leave many more people in Wales in financial difficulty and facing the threat of homelessness. At least now we have the reassurance that the Welsh Government has greater scope and flexibility to act to protect vulnerable people. “We commend the Deputy Minister for her hard work in keeping the LCO high on the agenda at Westminster and look forward to working with the Welsh Government to develop housing policies around the specific needs of people in Wales.”

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KNIGHTSTONE AFFORDABLE HOMES OPEN IN WILTSHIRE
23 July 2010

Knightstone Housing Association has launched its latest development in Wiltshire. Two new family homes have been built on the eastern fringe of Worton, a rural village near Devizes. The housing association worked closely with Wiltshire Council’s New Housing Team to develop the scheme and meet local community needs. The £250,000 development was funded with a mixture of government funding from the Homes and Communities Agency and funding raised by Knightstone. The houses were constructed by Redhorn Homes who worked with Knightstone to achieve Code 3 for sustainable homes, higher than originally specified in the planning conditions. Air source heat pumps were installed to provide heat for the hot water system and the central heating. Redhorn Homes completed the building works within 24 weeks. Mike Day, Knightstone’s Development Director said: “It’s great that we can build homes in rural locations like this and help people live in communities in which they have grown up. These properties were very popular and I hope the residents will be very happy in their new homes.”

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EAST DEVON BUILDS FIRST NEW COUNCIL HOMES SINCE 1990s
23 July 2010

For the first time in 20 years, East Devon District Council is breaking new ground, literally, with 17 council homes being built in East Devon. Nine of these are in the west of the district, with a further six being built in the east, at Waggs Plot and Heal’s Field in Axminster. Picture: (L–R) Greg Parkin Contracts Manager R G Spiller Ltd / John Golding Head of Housing EDDC / Cllr Jill Elson/ Neil Chick Site Manager R G Spiller Ltd & Graham Baker of Charles E Ware & Son. The homes are funded with the help of an investment of just over £1m from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), through its Local Authority New Build programme, which gives councils the support to deliver affordable housing solutions in their own communities. With matched funding from EDDC, six new family homes are currently under construction on the two Axminster sites, which will all be available for rent. They are being built to level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes by Chartered Building Contractors R G Spiller Limited. Residents can be confident, therefore, that the homes will be ecologically sound and economical to run. EDDC’s Portfolio Holder for Communities, Councillor Miss Jill Elson, said: “It is many years since the Council was in a position to build its own homes and I am delighted that this building programme is now under way. “Thanks to the funding from the Homes and Communities Agency, and the further £1m contribution from EDDC, we are now able to help families move into homes that they can afford.” Colin Molton, HCA Director with responsibility for investment in the South West, added: “This development is providing much needed, high quality affordable housing in East Devon as part of our drive to increase provision across the South West. “All partners have worked hard to bring these new homes to fruition for local people and we can all be very proud of what we have achieved here.”

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NEWPORT BME HOUSING FORUM LAUNCHED
23 July 2010

The Newport Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Housing Forum has been set up in Wales to identify housing issues affecting ethnic communities and working with housing providers to tackle these issues. The forum began life as a Communities First initiative in July 2009 and through the support of Newport City Council and Newport City Homes (NCH), has grown into a resident led group that aims to challenge inequalities in housing. The launch event, attended by over 100 people was held at Nexus House, NCH’s Central office was an action packed day with presentations from key partners such as NCH, Newport City Council, Care and Repair and South East Wales Racial Equality Council. Rosemary Butler AM, formally launched the forum with the cutting of a multi coloured ribbon. Following the presentations, attendees were entertained by the Batanai Bambanani Ladies Choir (a group raising money for deprived areas of Zimbabwe), the Sudanese Ladies music Choir and traditional Philippine dancing. By the end of the afternoon there was a real atmosphere of celebration and attendees pledged to work in partnership to ensure equality to the residents of Newport.

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CAMELOT CREDIT UNION BONUS FOR NEW CUSTOMERS
23 July 2010

Camelot Credit Union is giving an extra £5 to their first 20 customers who use the new payment facility within the offices of Yarlington Housing Group. By working with the Housing Association at their Lupin Way offices in Yeovil, it will give greater choice for customers who like to make their deposits or payments in person, and will supplement the existing offices in other areas. Camelot Credit Union has been working in partnership with the housing group for the last 12 months, and this latest initiative has been designed to make access easier for the general public, as well as for the hundreds of tenants who visit the head office every week, by opening a payment facility on the Western side of Yeovil. Savers will be able to make payments into their savings or loan accounts to the specially trained Yarlington staff, as well as collect forms for new memberships. Opening times will be from 0900 to 1600 Monday to Friday. Alf Hill, Chairman of Camelot Credit Union said: “Part of our service to our customers is to be as accessible as possible. We are grateful to Yarlington Housing Group for allowing us to make use of their offices and staff. Making a special journey can be both time consuming and expensive, so we hope that people will take advantage of a new, local facility – and get a bonus at the same time.” Janet Howarth, Yarlington Housing Group’s Financial Inclusion Officer added: “Having another access point to the Credit Union is a tremendous benefit to our tenants and members of the public. We are pleased to be able to help savers to manage their finances, and we look forward to welcoming the first very soon.” Camelot Credit Union, which has been operating since 1999, was set up in Yeovil to provide a facility across South Somerset to help people manage their money. Showing people how to save for the things they need is the first principle of the organisation.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
23 July 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Finance Manager, based in Sevenoaks, salary £49,201. For more information, go to: southeast.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Performance Improvement Advisor based in Sunderland. Salary up to £35k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Housing Training and Events Manager based in Sunderland. Salary up to £33k plus benefits. For more information, go to: housingnews.co.uk/NorthEast. Closing date: July 30. North Devon Homes is seeking a Voluntary Board Member. For more information, go to: southwest.housingnews.co.uk/jobs. Closing date: July 31. The Gateshead Housing Company is looking to appoint Independent Directors to its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: August 20. Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association is seeking an Area Manager, based in Elgin, salary up to £41221 plus car/car allowance. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. ACHA is seeking an Investment Manager (Permanent Position), Lochgilphead, Salary Grade 3 (£37985-£42206 per annum), plus excellent benefits including final salary pension, 35 hours per week. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. TENDERS Hyde Housing Association is inviting tenders for affordable housing new-build residential accommodation projects. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 6. Notting Hill Housing Trust is inviting tenders for construction work for multi-dwelling buildings and individual houses. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing date: August 19. St Georges Community Housing is inviting tenders for a district heating contract. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southeast. Closing date: August 19. Cardiff Community Housing Association is inviting tenders for the Integrate Development Framework. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/southwest. Closing date: July 16. Cairn Housing Association is inviting tenders for its day to day repairs service and void management service. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: August 17. 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.

Relevant Links: