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

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DERBY CITYSCAPE TO CLOSE
15 March 2010

Derby Cityscape, Derby City Council’s regeneration body looks set to close with the council itself to take over its responsibilities with no redundancies planned. Council leaders are due to vote next Tuesday on closing the body and delivering its services from a new council department, the council said. Under the plans, Cityscape staff would be transferred to the regeneration division at the council, which is part of the chief executive’s office. No jobs would be lost, according to a council spokesman. The regeneration division would continue to work with inward-investment company Marketing Derby, which is part-funded by the council and which would be given more responsibility for tourism and city-centre management. The proposals follow a public consultation on the preparation and implementation of the Derby city centre masterplan and an internal review of the council’s regeneration services. A £10 million regeneration fund has been set up by the council to invest in regeneration, and this is intended to underpin the activities of the new department. Chief executive of Derby City Council Adam Wilkinson said: "The private sector alone cannot achieve our ambitions. The public sector – namely the council – should therefore intervene and provide the leadership in these difficult economic times." Derby Cityscape chairman Peter Richardson said: "The calls for a new structure follow a distinct change in economic circumstances nationally and regionally. Partners concluded that Derby needs to make a step-change in development and delivery of regeneration projects and we all recognise that the council is determined to take these steps for the benefit of the city. The new structure will be simpler and provide value for money through better use of budgets."

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NORWICH FAMILIES ASKED FOR VIEWS ON £3M COMMUNITY HUBS
15 March 2010

Families in the Norwich area are being asked for their views on plans to develop three specialist community hubs on their doorsteps. Norfolk County Council successfully bid for £3m from the Department for Children, Schools and Families to develop the centres at the sites of two former schools and a pupil referral unit. The proposals are to develop hubs with different specialisms in Bowthorpe, Heartsease and South Harford. The hubs will work with a range of agencies to provide services in the heart of Norwich's communities. Services for young people and the wider community are already being delivered from the former Bowthorpe Pupil Referral Unit (PRU), Harford Middle School and Woodside First School and the funding will allow for improvements and additional facilities for other services and community uses. The £3m from the Government will cover the cost of transforming the buildings to meet the needs of local people that are identified through the consultation. Norfolk County Council is working with its partners to ensure the funding of new services. Norfolk County Council wants to develop an environmental hub in Bowthorpe, a health and leisure hub at the South Harford site and an Early Years and Childcare hub at the Woodside site. The former PRU in Bowthorpe Hall Road, Bowthorpe, has been a Youth and Community Centre since early in 2009. It is also home to Norfolk County Council's Environmental and Outdoor Learning Energy Busters team, who work with schools to raise awareness of energy saving and environmental issues. The County Council wants to build on this green specialism and develop an environmental hub. It is now asking residents how this might look and what services they would like to see, for example a community garden or allotment to grow fruit and vegetables. The former South Harford Middle School, in Locksley Road, is currently undergoing a £3.6m redevelopment so that, from September, it can become the Central area PRU. In previous consultation, members of the community said they wanted to see the outdoor space kept for sport and recreation and some of the indoor space used for exercise, healthy eating and cookery classes. Norfolk County Council is hoping that the site can have a health and leisure focus, including a multi-use games area, a five-a-side football pitch, changing rooms and playing fields. A community use agreement is already in place, meaning some of the indoor space and sporting facilities will be available to the community once the PRU is open. The former Woodside First School, in Witard Road, is proposed to be developed as a community hub specialising in Early Years and Childcare. The centre is based next to the Woodside One Neighbourhood Nursery and Norfolk County Council's Professional Development Centre, so it is in an ideal venue to develop childcare training. Support would also be offered to local families through advice, training and education and PRU services would continue for very young pupils.

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“BY THE DOME IT’S A HOME” BOOK LAUNCHED
15 March 2010

“By the Dome it’s a Home”, a new book published by the CIRCLES Project with support from Estuary Housing Association has been launched on behalf of the residents of the Woodgrange Drive Estate in Southend-on-Sea. Picture: Resident Bob Tuck – who has lived on the estate for 30 years, signs a copy of the book for the local Mayor. This project was made possible due to a £29,000 Heritage Lottery Grant given to the voluntary organisation whose staff are employed by Estuary Housing Association, who own and manage the estate. The insightful book congregates the memories of the residents of Southend-on-Sea’s Woodgrange Drive estate. Built on the former site of the Kursaal Amusement Park the area has a lot of history and many a story. The honest accounts of residents retell the stories of their lives, from wartime Southend up to the present day. With over 25 images of residents, the estate and bygone Southend, the book provides a wonderful nostalgic trip into the lives of the residents. It bridges the gap between generations, incorporating stories from every decade from the 1920’ onwards. As well as historical accounts, the book looks at the residents’ experiences of Southend, their attitudes towards the estate as well as their future aspirations. Barry Cox, former Chief Executive of Estuary Housing Association, from 1977 – 2002 made a contribution to the book and talked about how fantastic is was to be involved right from the start. In the mid 70’s when the estate was being built, it was the single largest project in the country comprising of 730 homes. “When the first phase was completed it was a carnival like atmosphere, the whole place was filled with removal vans and people walking around with big grins on their faces”. Rachel Wood who was involved in obtaining the funding for the project, said "This was a great opportunity for many of the people living on this site today to record their memories and preserve them for their children, grandchildren and future generations. The real stars of the book are undoubtedly the residents of the Woodgrange Drive Estate." The book is on sale at Amazon for a cost of £9.99 and all proceeds from the book will go back to the community and be used for a literacy based project chosen by contributors of the book.

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IDEAS TO CURB ASB FROM LEICESTER’S YOUTH
15 March 2010

A BMX track, basketball court and community centre were among the facilities requested by young people in Leicester during a four day consultation about tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB). A total of 60 youngsters, aged between 13 and 25, took part in the informal sessions in Highfields, Kirby Frith and Beaumont Leys. Foundation and East Midlands Housing Association commissioned Leicester-based Streetvibe Young Peoples Service (SYPS) to conduct the consultation on their behalf. The sister housing associations are carrying out a pilot with the Tenant Services Authority (TSA) which looks at how best social landlords can tackle bad behaviour in their communities. Tenants were invited to a public conference hosted by the HAs in Beaumont Leys last month. This week’s series of consultation events was a chance for the younger generation to have their say. SYPS youth workers visited the three areas on board their customised bus and van on Friday (05), Saturday (06), Monday (08) and Tuesday (09). As well as a BMX track, basketball court and community centre there were calls for trouble makers to be evicted from their homes, an astro turf, cleaner parks and more bins. Ideas for cutting ASB included making sure areas were well-lit and covered by CCTV, regular police patrols, sports and social community activities and the involvement of youth workers. Tony Brooks, Foundation HA community development and projects coordinator, said: “It was a great opportunity to engage with some of the young people living in the communities that we serve. Young people are often perceived to be the cause of anti-social behaviour, so hearing their views was an essential part of the project. “The findings from these sessions will feed into the pilot and we will follow up the issues raised locally and through our ongoing work with young people.’’ Brian Quinn, SYPS youth work manager, said: “This consultation shows that young people have a vested interest in their community and will happily contribute to solutions to help deal with anti-social behaviour if they are given the opportunity. It was productive and worthwhile.” FHA and EMHA will set local standards for effectively tackling ASB by the end of the month and they will be monitored between April and September. After this time they will be evaluated and successful pilots will be rolled out across the country.

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FUNDING BOOST TO BENEFIT COMMUNITIES
15 March 2010

Community groups are being given a helping hand to improve the environment thanks to funding from a Daventry Housing Association. Daventry & District Housing has given £20,900 from its Environmental Improvement Budget to three community groups to help improve local facilities. Norton Parish Council and Crick Playing Field Association each received £10,000 from Daventry & District Housing’s Community Environmental Budget, which is set up to support local groups and organisations working to make a positive difference to their area. Thanks to the funding Norton Parish Council is transforming an area of land it owns into a play area and community space for residents to enjoy. The Council has also received funding from the National Lottery to fund the £21,000 project. Parish councillor Nigel Allcott, said: “It is great that Daventry & District Housing is able to help support local projects like ours. We are going to use a local contractor so the money is benefiting the community in more ways than one.” Crick Playing Field Association is using the funding for a new play surface to improve safety for children using the play equipment. Also receiving funding is Yelvertoft Village Hall Committee, which got £900 to pay for resurfacing a skate park. The Environmental Improvement Budget is overseen by a panel of Daventry & District Housing tenants, which decides which applications receive funding. Resident involvement officer for Daventry & District Housing Sarah Sims said: “We are delighted to see the funding benefit such a large number of residents in these three villages. “We are committed to improving local neighbourhoods and the Community Environment Budget is a great way of helping local groups which make a positive impact in our communities.” Daventry & District Housing’s Community Environmental Budget totals £100,000 a year.

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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: Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. Tenders North Glasgow Housing Association is inviting tenders for Internal Audit Services. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 2. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. 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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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
15 March 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. Tenders North Glasgow Housing Association is inviting tenders for Internal Audit Services. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 2. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. 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: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
16 March 2010

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CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE ACCREDITATION FOR CROSS KEYS
16 March 2010

Peterborough’s largest landlord has been recognised for its excellence in customer service by the Prime Minister after receiving a new government standard. Cross Keys Homes has received a personal letter from No. 10 Downing Street after being accredited with the Customer Service Excellence standard which recognises the efforts of all staff who work hard to deliver first class services. The housing association demonstrated compliance against the standard’s five key elements; customer insight, timeliness and quality of service, information and access, the culture of the organisation and delivery. PM Gordon Brown, said: “Cross Keys Homes’ achievement demonstrates that they have recognised the importance of developing an in-depth understanding of their customers’ needs. Consultation and customer insight is vitally important if we are to continue to make the improvements we all want to see in public services.” The external evaluation included an independent assessment of the company, as well as interviews with staff, tenants, board members, partners and stakeholders. Cross Keys Homes’ chief executive, Mick Leggett, said: “This achievement reflects one of our primary aims at Cross Keys Homes which is to provide services that exceed our customers’ expectations. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work all our staff have put in to deliver brilliant customer service.” Customer Service Excellence assessor, Peter Oldridge, added: “I have not seen a more customer-focused organisation and this is to be commended. “Cross Keys Homes approach to understanding customers’ needs and preferences, and providing services for different customer groups is praiseworthy.” He added: “Their excellent partnership arrangements with Mears is seamless.” The new standard has replaced the former Charter Mark accreditation and the certification is valid for three years, subject to ongoing monitoring.

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ACCENT NENE GAVE ME THE BEST PRESENT EVER
16 March 2010

Julie and Kate Accent Nene has recently delivered 10 new homes in Little Eversden, Cambridge on Low Close off the Harlton Road. The new homes in this rural village have been constructed by a local developer Beehdale Homes. Kate Green along with her daughter were so excited to have been offered a home here which enabled her to return to where she grew up, to be close to her parents who also live in Little Eversden. Kate said: ”The house is modern and light with uninterrupted, fantastic views and one can see the Little Eversden church in the horizon”. Julie Warren Accent Nene’s Housing Officer who dealt with Kate’s move helped with the process keeping Kate informed along the way. Kate commented that “Julie helped to get the ball rolling and made the process easy putting me at ease along the way. “Accent Nene have worked on this small development with local parties for over four years and it is a pleasure when it comes to fruition and for us to be able to help those be closer to their families and to be able to live in a village in which they grew up”. Having moved into the home just before Christmas Kate says ”this has been the best Christmas present ever”. Kate’s daughter who is twelve has been able to remain at Comberton Village College which again has assisted in this move. Kate works as a professional artist and creativity coach and has the opportunity to continue with her work here. The homes at Little Eversden have been built to suit the local area and a range of modern building techniques have been incorporated such as timber frames used in combination with air source heat pumps which help reduce carbon emissions into the environment.

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MAYFLOWER EXTENDS HELP TO HOMELESS
16 March 2010

Boston’s biggest housing provider is getting set to open a hostel for single homeless people. Boston Mayflower has received funding for the project from Lincolnshire County Council’s Supporting People scheme - and hopes to have its hostel’s doors open this Spring. The hostel will feature accommodation and support, including eight fully furnished rooms for single homeless people. Boston Mayflower’s New Initiatives Manager Alycia Glaves, said: “There has been no provision like this in the local area since last May. Currently the nearest accommodation for single homeless people is in Skegness. “Our hostel will provide support to assist people in life skills such as cooking, careers, education and budgeting - and help in securing permanent self-contained accommodation in the future. “We are currently working with the owner of a suitable building to arrange the necessary changes before people can start moving in.” Everyday, people become homeless for many reasons including family breakdown, loss of employment, debt or ill-health. Since it was founded 10 years ago Boston Mayflower has built a strong reputation in the local area for providing affordable housing and giving support to vulnerable people. Lettings Support Manager Deborah Tempest, said: “This new development builds on our expertise in these areas. “We are looking forward to providing this service for the community of Boston. “It will provide much needed help and accommodation for single homeless people in the area.”

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LUMINUS CELEBRATES ITS 'WOMEN'S DAY'
16 March 2010

Mother's Day saw Luminus, celebrate its own "Women's Day" by giving every female employee a “Yes We Can” mug and a Cadbury’s Flake accompanied by a card from the Group Chief Executive thanking them for their special contribution. Luminus, who recently won 2nd place in the Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For and three stars "extraordinary" Best Company Accreditation has approximately 120 women employees, about half its workforce. Chan Abraham, Luminus Group Chief Executive, said: "In 2010, our year of Renewing Hope and Inspiration, we want to celebrate the special contribution of our women who are helping to change the world for the better. Each one of them represents a different strand of the unique Luminus story, helping to demonstrate a more excellent way along our Road to Renewal."

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FUNDING BOOST TO BENEFIT COMMUNITIES
16 March 2010

Community groups are being given a helping hand to improve the environment thanks to funding from a Daventry Housing Association. Daventry & District Housing has given £20,900 from its Environmental Improvement Budget to three community groups to help improve local facilities. Norton Parish Council and Crick Playing Field Association each received £10,000 from Daventry & District Housing’s Community Environmental Budget, which is set up to support local groups and organisations working to make a positive difference to their area. Thanks to the funding Norton Parish Council is transforming an area of land it owns into a play area and community space for residents to enjoy. The Council has also received funding from the National Lottery to fund the £21,000 project. Parish councillor Nigel Allcott, said: “It is great that Daventry & District Housing is able to help support local projects like ours. We are going to use a local contractor so the money is benefiting the community in more ways than one.” Crick Playing Field Association is using the funding for a new play surface to improve safety for children using the play equipment. Also receiving funding is Yelvertoft Village Hall Committee, which got £900 to pay for resurfacing a skate park. The Environmental Improvement Budget is overseen by a panel of Daventry & District Housing tenants, which decides which applications receive funding. Resident involvement officer for Daventry & District Housing Sarah Sims said: “We are delighted to see the funding benefit such a large number of residents in these three villages. “We are committed to improving local neighbourhoods and the Community Environment Budget is a great way of helping local groups which make a positive impact in our communities.” Daventry & District Housing’s Community Environmental Budget totals £100,000 a year.

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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

JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
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

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SPOTLIGHT
17 March 2010

LARKFLEET GROUP LAUNCHES LARK ENERGY
17 March 2010

Bourne-based Larkfleet Group, a privately owned group of development and construction companies, has launched Lark Energy to provide affordable and sustainable heat and power to Larkfleet’s customers. At a time of concern over climate change, volatile energy prices and uncertainty over future supply, Lark Energy will focus on developing cleaner, locally sourced energy for new and existing housing developments. Picture: Larkfleet Group managing director Karl Hick (left) and Lark Energy Ltd managing director Jonathan Selwyn outside Larkfleet’s Sustainability Demonstration House at its head offices in Bourne, Lincolnshire. This will include electricity and heat generated by the sun (photo-voltaic electricity and solar thermal), biomass, wind and small scale hydroelectric power. Larkfleet Group is already heavily involved in providing renewable energy solutions. The Group’s Sustainability Demonstration House next to its headquarters in Bourne demonstrates the different energy saving solutions available in property construction that Larkfleet uses in many of its own developments. Jonathan Selwyn has been appointed as Lark Energy’s founding managing director. Jonathan has over 17 years experience developing strategy and devising and leading sustainable development projects for government and business, including renewable energy schemes for housing and commercial development. Jonathan has played a key role in the greater Peterborough area. As chief executive of the Peterborough-based UK Centre for Economic and Environmental Development, he identified the largest concentration of environmental businesses in the UK and launched a business support initiative which led to UK and EU energy projects. He also successfully lobbied for the city to be the location for the largest zero carbon housing project in the UK, established the Eco Innovation Centre and helped to persuade Peterborough to adopt the vision of becoming the UK’s Environment Capital. Jonathan stated “I am delighted to be establishing this innovative new business for Larkfleet, a company already well known for its pioneering approach to sustainable development in the housing and commercial development sector. “My aim is to provide affordable, secure and clean heat and power to Larkfleet’s current and future customers. We will be working with private, public and not-for-profit partners to accelerate both the deployment of existing technologies and the development of some exciting new technologies.” Karl Hick, managing director of Larkfleet Group, said: “I am delighted to introduce this new company to the Larkfleet Group and welcome Jonathan Selwyn as its first managing director. Lark Energy will help Larkfleet Group continue to be a national leader in sustainable house building for the future.”

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CROSS KEYS HOMES SHORTLISTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
17 March 2010

Peterborough’s largest landlord has been shortlisted for a prestigious award for its project aimed at tackling health inequalities. Cross Keys Homes in partnership with the NHS has been shortlisted for the Tenant Participation Advisory Service Connecting People awards under the category of ‘best practice in the community’ for its health scheme aimed at helping people who have a life expectancy of up to 10-years less than those in more affluent areas. Cross Keys Homes has invested £35,000 in the 12-month programme which offers residents living in Orton and Eastfield access to free health advice as well as one-to-one support for tenants of the housing association. The project provides two NHS health trainers to help Cross Keys Homes’ tenants to make healthier lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking and weight loss or gain. Cross Keys Homes’ chief executive, Mick Leggett, said: “We are really pleased to have been shortlisted for this award and thanks must go to all the staff who have been involved in this project for all their hard work. “This project is proving to be a real achievement and reflects one of our primary aims at Cross Keys Homes which is to help improve people’s lives through our ability to inspire, motivate and give hope to individuals and communities.” Claire Higgins, director of operations, added: “The areas we have targeted are two of the most deprived in the city where often some of the residents don’t just experience the effect of one aspect of deprivation such as the impact of high unemployment, but also a number of other issues such as a low income level and health inequalities. “This is why intervention requires a multi-agency approach and thanks to our excellent partnership working with the NHS, the scheme is proving to be a real success since it began.” The project also helps to fund a debt coach for the charity Christians Against Poverty who make referrals on to the health trainers. Dr Andy Liggins, director of public health at NHS Peterborough, said: “Our health trainers have been engaging well with the tenants at the ground level showing amazing results. Being shortlisted for this award is a great achievement for our health trainers and shows the strength of the great working partnership with Cross Keys Homes. “Our health trainers help people make a healthy lifestyle change, they are there to increase motivation and support the client to achieve their goals. The areas that health trainers can assist with are smoking, diet, physical activity, drugs/alcohol and sexual health.” Cross Keys Homes is up against Gloucestershire Housing Association, Wates Living Space, Sandwell Homes, Bromford Group and Nottingham Community Housing Association and Newark and Sherwood Homes. The results will be announced at an awards ceremony in Birmingham on Thursday, March 18.

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VICTORY INVESTS £20,000 MORE INTO ABOUT WITH FRIENDS PROJECT
17 March 2010

A ground-breaking Befriending and Community Support Service in the north of Norfolk, which was set up as a pilot late last year, has been extended into 2011, thanks to a £20,000 injection of funding from Victory Housing Trust. The service is being delivered by Cromer-based charity for adults and young people with learning difficulties About with Friends, which won a £5,000 grant from the Victory Housing Community Fund in 2010. The pilot, which started in December, has been so successful that Victory has now decided to extend funding for another 13 months. The service is provided for elderly or vulnerable Victory residents, and involves members of About with Friends offering their skills in gardening, cooking, IT and more, as well as befriending residents, running regular exercise classes, trips to the theatre and cinema. “It’s such a neat set-up,” said Helen Dalton-Hare, Project Director at About with Friends. “Our members need some support, and so do the people they’re helping, but it’s support of a different kind. “We can do some practical things – change lightbulbs, tidy gardens and fill hanging baskets. In the bad weather we were there clearing paths and helping people get out and about. We can help with lifting and carrying, help people get to the shops – all those things that can make a difference. “Our members have also benefitted hugely from it. They have had training in aspects like food safety, team working, and understanding disabilities in others. They feel they do a hard day’s work and are rewarded for it. It is the most exciting thing I have been involved with, as I’m watching members’ self-esteem and self-confidence grow daily. “It’s a win-win situation for our members and the people we’re helping.” John Archibald, Victory Housing Trust Chief Executive, said that the decision to extend funding for the project was an easy one. “This works for us on so many levels,” he said. “We’re working in partnership with a trusted local organisation and providing support to some of our most vulnerable residents in a way that is fun for them too. We have been so impressed by the way About with Friends have delivered these services. “The pilot only started in December, but About with Friends tell me that by Christmas they were getting cards from people saying they were looking forward to 2010 so much more now their new friends were in their lives – that is such a positive result.”

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DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITES OPEN UP AS HCA SELLS LEICESTERSHIRE LAND
17 March 2010

Over six acres of development land has been opened up offering growing companies in the city the opportunity to build high quality, sustainable new premises. The land at Hoods Close on the Ashton Business Park, Beaumont Leys, was initially reserved only for firms relocating to make way for regeneration projects such as Highcross Leicester, but Prospect Leicestershire will now consider making the site available to any businesses wanting to expand in Leicester. Plots are available for purchase starting from 0.5 acres on the 6.5-acre site, which is owned by the Homes and Communities Agency. Prospect Leicestershire, who are marketing the site with the Homes and Communities Agency, are looking for a high quality, sustainable development on the site. Hiren Vaitha, Development Manager at Prospect Leicestershire, said: “This site has all the infrastructure in place for incoming companies to develop on the land. “We want to encourage businesses to move to the site that are committed to creating a high quality environment and sustainable buildings.”

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TROY YOUTH CLUB GETS A FACELIFT
17 March 2010

Prince’s Trust programme, Volunteers have given Troy Youth Club in Pitsea a revamp to help build community links with young people living in the area. Picture: Princes Trust Team Leader Paul Edwards (front), St Georges Community Housing Community Warden Steve Doyle (second from right) and the Princes Trust volunteers start work on some cartoon themed artwork outside Troy Youth Club. The youth club, run jointly by staff from St Georges Community Housing and Basildon District Council, is visited by more than 45 teenagers every week despite suffering from dated facilities. Fifteen Prince’s Trust programme volunteers, who learned about the youth club through St Georges Community Housing, raised £680 to buy paint and materials to give the youth club a much-needed facelift. The volunteers spent two days packing bags at Tesco in Pitsea and running a stall at Basildon Market to raise the funds. Both Tesco and Basildon market have continuously supported the Prince’s Trust. Paul Edwards, Prince’s Trust team leader employed by the Essex County Council, Integrated Youth Service to deliver the Prince’s Trust programme said: “The volunteers chose to dedicate their time to Troy Youth Club because it is used by so many different people in the community, not just the youth, but also fitness and religious groups and they felt a lot of people would really benefit from the refurbishment.” In addition to giving the interior a fresh coat of paint, the volunteers also created a cartoon themed mural on the building’s exterior to inspire new members coming through the doors. Steve Shynn, interim chief executive of St Georges Community Housing, said: “Troy Youth Club plays an integral role in the community, not only giving young people living in the area somewhere safe to meet, but also helping to build links between St Georges Community Housing and our tenants. “The fantastic work carried out by the volunteers will hopefully encourage even more young people to use the facilities and to benefit from the wide range of activities that take place there.” The youth club operates out of the Trenham Centre on Wednesday evenings from 6pm until 9pm. Regular activities include table tennis, pool, arts and crafts, painting, dance lessons and DJ workshops. Chelsea Football Club have also run football coaching sessions through the youth club. St Georges Community Housing manages 12,900 homes and 5,900 garages for Basildon District Council. It works alongside the council and its residents to develop communities in which people are proud to live.

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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: Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. Tenders North Glasgow Housing Association is inviting tenders for Internal Audit Services. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 2. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. 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

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SPOTLIGHT
18 March 2010

NEW CHARTER NAMED 6TH IN SUNDAY TIMES BEST COMPANIES LIST
18 March 2010

New Charter has been named at 6th in the prestigious Sunday Times 100 best companies to work for. And there is double cause for celebration as the Group was also named most improved company in the UK. The Group, based in Ashton-under-Lyne, and also includes Nottinghamshire landlord Gedling Homes and Oldham-based Aksa Housing Association. The Sunday Times has run the lists for a decade. This year, more than 1000 companies submitted themselves to the scrutiny of the people who know them best - their staff. The recognition followed the award of three stars in the Best Companies accreditation at the beginning of last month. This used a ‘Michelin style’ star rating for organisations that demonstrate high levels of employee engagement. Based on staff feedback, organisations receive a Best Companies index score which determines their star rating compared to a fixed standard. One star is first class, two stars are outstanding and three stars are extraordinary. Group Chief Executive Ian Munro admitted to being nervous as the results announcement drew nearer. He said: “We were 52nd in The Sunday Times list in 2009 and we pored over those survey results. Every one of my managers and supervisors looked carefully at what we could improve. It’s no coincidence that appreciation of this level of management has distinguished the very best performers. “As one of only 50 companies to get three stars, we had confidence we’d improve in the listing - but this is above my expectation. And it underscores what our customers have consistently told us – a great company is made by its great people. “This makes us the best housing association to work for in the North.” New Charter’s strengths were remarkably evenly spread across the eight indicators which are used to compile the list. Staff highly rated training and opportunities for personal growth, and great numbers of them said they “loved working for [the] organisation”. They also said they had the opportunity to make a difference; but the single highest score was for being proud to work for the company. The stunning improvement in New Charter’s ranking from last year brought the trophy and title of UK’s Best Improver.

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LINDSEY TAKES THE CHAIR FOR NHF IN THE EAST MIDLANDS
18 March 2010

Lindsey Williams Lindsey Williams has been appointed chair of the National Housing Federation’s East Midlands committee. Lindsey is group chief executive of Futures Housing Group, which owns and manages more than 8,600 homes across Derbyshire and Northamptonshire. As chair, Lindsey will help to champion the needs of communities in the East Midlands and act as a figurehead for the federation’s campaigns. These include attracting more central government funding to create more affordable homes in rural communities and ensuring those on lower incomes are not disadvantaged when it comes to getting good financial advice. Lindsey, who takes over from former chair Chan Kataria, said: “A recent report has shown that the East Midlands is facing the fastest household growth in the country. There are now more than 135,000 households on waiting lists for an affordable home in the region. “Average house prices remain high compared to average incomes and this is having a negative impact on local communities, especially in rural areas where younger people are forced to move away from family networks. This, in turn, affects the sustainability of villages where amenities such as shops and schools struggle to survive. “We are keen to ensure that funding for affordable housing goes to the right places and that all those providing social housing in the region can work together to best serve the interests of our customers and communities. “We also want to ensure that residents on lower incomes can enjoy the same access to sound financial advice as those who are better off, and that they are supported to make the most of their money. “Housing associations are well placed to help residents improve their financial wellbeing and we want to remove barriers that see people turning to high interest lenders or making tough choices when it comes to household budgets.”

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BREATH OF FRESH AIR TO BE INJECTED INTO COMMUNITY VENUE
18 March 2010

The restoration of the Forest Road Meeting Hall on the Greenstead estate, in Colchester, has moved another step closer following successful consultation with local residents. The hall has been standing empty for a number of years and has fallen into a state of disrepair, something that Colchester-based housing association, Colne Housing, wants to rectify. In a bid to provide a new focal point for the Greenstead community, the society has put funds in place to totally renovate the building and pay for the first twelve months rent. Marnie Cameron, Community Development Officer Colne Housing, said: “The meeting hall offers the local community enormous potential and we hope that residents will get behind the project. Should it get the go-ahead, we hope the centre will be renovated and up and running by the end of spring, making it available for public hire, junior youth activities and other community groups.” Feedback from a recent ‘Have your say’ evening and neighbourhood survey has been extremely positive and the proposed re-opening of the centre has been welcomed with open arms.

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MAYFLOWER’S FREE FAMILY EVENTS
18 March 2010

Families are being invited to some upcoming free events organised by Boston Mayflower. The Get Out Get Involved sessions offer children the chance to enjoy fun activities including Gladiators-style podium jousting, face painting, arts and crafts - and lots more. The events form a road show which regularly visits well known community locations in and around Boston. The upcoming sessions, which include indoor and outdoor ones, will be held as follows: Tuesday, April 6 - The Giles School, Old Leake (indoor) Friday, April 9 – Wellington Road, Boston (outdoor) Tuesday, April 13 - The Kirton Middlecott Sports Centre (indoor) Thursday, April 15 – Ingelow Avenue, Boston (outdoor) All events take place from 1pm to 4pm and all children under 13-years-old must be accompanied by an adult. Entry to all the events is free, as are the activities. Mayflower’s Marketing Officer Nathan Black, said: “Our Get Out Get Involved sessions are always very popular. “We are offering the chance for people to come along and have hours of fun together – without having to pay a penny. “No pre-booking is required. The events are open to everyone, not just Boston Mayflower tenants.”

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KAREN GOES THE DISTANCE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR SPORT RELIEF
18 March 2010

International athlete Karen Harewood will go the distance when she completes three runs in three towns in less than three hours, to raise money for Sport Relief. Karen, an area housing officer with Seven Locks Housing, will be on the front foot when she takes part in the “triple three” challenge on Sunday March 21. Karen will be under starter’s orders in Corby at 12.30pm for a one mile run, sprinting on to Kettering at 1pm for a three mile run and finally crossing the finish line in Market Harborough after completing a six mile run at 2pm. Dying her hair red for the occasion, Karen, 34, is hoping to raise £333 in sponsorship for each run, raising £999 in all. Seven Locks Housing is boosting the Market Harborough leg of Karen’s fast fund-raiser with a £200 donation. A member of Corby AC, Karen is an 800m runner who competes at a national and international level. The determined athlete, who only started running competitively at 27-years-old, won a silver medal in the 2006 National Indoor Championships and a bronze medal at the same meet the following year. This year, Karen came fourth. Karen said: “Because I do so much running anyway, it was an obvious way for me to raise money while doing something I’m very passionate about. I’m attracted to Sport Relief because, through Comic Relief, it cuts across so many different cause, both locally and internationally, helping people who are less fortunate than ourselves. “My target is to raise £333 from each of the three races. I’d be grateful if as many people could sponsor me as possible.” Keeping to her theme of three, Karen is appealing to local businesses for corporate sponsors to donate £33 each. Seven Locks Housing, where Karen works, has kick started corporate donations by becoming the first business to back Karen. Individuals can also give their backing. Support Karen on her triple challenge through the Just Giving website. You can make donations by logging on to:

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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: Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. Tenders North Glasgow Housing Association is inviting tenders for Internal Audit Services. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 2. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. 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:

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

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SPOTLIGHT
19 March 2010

TWO STAR ‘EXCELLENT’ RATING FOR DAVENTRY & DISTRICT HOUSING
19 March 2010

A housing association launched just over two years ago has received a major endorsement from a government watchdog. The Audit Commission has awarded Daventry & District Housing a rating of two stars with ‘excellent prospects’ following an inspection of its services late last year. The result puts the housing association in the top two per cent of associations nationally and means Daventry & District Housing is the youngest organisation to have achieved ‘two-stars, promising’ in the last six years. The Audit Commission is a government body that checks public-funded organisations - such as housing associations and councils - are providing good services and are making good use of their money. It awards between zero and three stars and a prospects for improvement rating that ranges from poor to excellent. Daventry & District Housing’s rating means that it is deemed to be providing a ‘good’ service and has a strong track record of delivering improvements that tenants notice. Hayley Davies, executive director of Daventry & District Housing, said: “We are delighted with the inspectors’ findings. To achieve this result after just two years of operation is a great testament to the hard work of our teams and board members and especially all our tenants, who are so involved in our work.” “The Audit Commission recognised that our services are making a positive impact on customers and communities - from refurbishing homes to providing good quality repairs and tackling anti-social behaviour. “When we launched we were clear that we wanted tenants to be at the heart of the organisation and it is pleasing that the Audit Commission also highlighted that tenants are actively involved in the planning, shaping and monitoring of services.” The inspectors praised, in particular, progress against a programme to improve tenants’ homes, high levels of tenant satisfaction with repairs and a gas safety programme which carries out annual checks to every single property. It also highlighted good performance on collecting rent and offering money advice to tenants, as well work to tackle anti-social behaviour and maintain communal areas. It also recognised that Daventry & District Housing had benefited from its membership of Futures Housing Group, which has added capacity and access to skilled staff. The inspection report says: “Daventry & District Housing has excellent prospects for improvement, with a number of important drivers in place. It has achieved some significant improvements against key performance indicators and delivered improvements tenants would recognise, leading to higher levels of tenant satisfaction. It has prioritised improvements through the promises it made to tenants at the time of transfer. There are effective planning and performance management arrangements in place and tenants play an active role in these.” Among the organisation’s strengths, the Audit Commission found that Daventry & District Housing offered: Accessible services including good quality information A major improvement programme that has so far refurbished over 800 homes A repairs service with high levels of tenant satisfaction An effective system for re-letting homes so that they do not stand empty for longer than necessary Support and advice for tenants struggling to pay their rent or with wider money worries Help for older and vulnerable tenants, including a subsidised gardening and decorating scheme A range of methods for dealing with anti-social behaviour and support for victims and vulnerable people. The report also made some recommendations for further improvements including new targets for phone answering and developing the complaints service. A full copy of the report can be found at:

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SANCTUARY’S IN-HOUSE REPAIRS SERVICE CONTINUES TO GROW
19 March 2010

Sanctuary Group is expanding its successfull in-house repairs service by extending it to thousands of residents across the Midlands this week. The Internal Maintenance Service (IMS) workforce has been set up specifically to ensure we can provide the best possible service to our residents, with the aim to increase customer satisfaction and ensure value for money with a consistent level of service across the Group. The IMS is being rolled out in phases across the UK and is currently operational in the Midlands, Ely, Hertford and Rochford, with the Midlands’ expansion’s ‘go-live’ this week. Eleven operatives with a variety of maintenance skills have been recruited to cover Staffordshire and the East and West of the Midlands and have received intensive induction training ahead of today’s start date. Each operative will carry out responsive and out of hours repairs and maintenance work on empty properties, under the guidance of Midlands Operations Manager Phill Heales. This brings the total number of operatives in the Midlands to 29, covering properties across West Midlands, Worcestershire, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire. Resident involvement has been key to the successful set-up of IMS so far, with a number of initiatives to ensure residents play a direct role in shaping the service they receive. Resident representatives sit on the interview panel during each phase of the recruitment process and also review promotional literature for the service. Perhaps the most crucial element of resident involvement however has been their active participation in training the newly recruited operatives. As part of the induction process residents speak to operatives about their own expectations from the service and the code of conduct by which the operatives should operate. Resident Geoff Copestake took part in the most recent recruitment drive and said: “To participate in the recruitment of operatives who will be visiting residents homes is a really valuable opportunity. It’s important to give the candidate a perspective from both sides, the employer and the customer, and was appreciated by each of the interviewees.” Darren Newman, Director of Maintenance, said: “Having residents involved in the set up of IMS is a hugely important part of the process and helps our staff to understand the impact the quality of service will have on our customers. “We are now on to our fifth operation in the UK and these roll-outs take a huge amount of time and dedication from a number of different teams in the organisation to be a success.” Plans are now well under way for the implementation of IMS in London & South East (Hackney & Haringey) in April, followed shortly afterwards in Ipswich, and a multi-phase roll out in the North of England from late May onwards. The South West is expected to follow in the Summer.

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BOURNE: 47 NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES TO BE BUILT
19 March 2010

A mixed scheme of 47 affordable houses and flats is to be built at Manning Road in Bourne, Lincolnshire. The homes will be built to levels 3 and 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. It is being built by Larkfleet Homes and is due for completion in March 2011. The Code for Sustainable Homes level 3 is some 25 per cent above the standard building regulations specification for energy performance. Properties that meet the Code for Sustainable Homes level 4 exceed current regulations even further. After completion, 15 of the properties will be sold through Longhurst Group Housing Association as affordable homes. The remaining properties will be marketed through the Homebuy Direct scheme, where buyers purchase 70 per cent of the property and receive the remaining 30 per cent as a loan from the Homes and Communities Agency.

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MAYFLOWER’S FREE FAMILY EVENTS
19 March 2010

The hunt is on for Hertfordshire's prestigious Village of the Year 2010. Organised by CPRE Hertfordshire, the Hertfordshire Village of the Year competition is sponsored by Hertfordshire Community Foundation in association with Hertfordshire County Council, North Hertfordshire District Council and the Hertfordshire Mercury. The deadline is 29 April, so there is still time to enter, if you move quickly. “This is not about pretty villages” says Village of the Year Administrator, Jo Simson “What the judges are looking for is living, working communities who support each other, make the most of opportunities and overcome difficulties. Already this year, we are hearing from villages planning to enter the competition for the first time in its 10-year history, but we'd like to encourage every village with a population under the maximum 6,000 limit to think about entering.” The competition is judged in four categories, Environment, Business, People and Communications. Every entrant will be visited in June by a small team of enthusiastic judges, keen to meet the villagers and find out what makes their village tick. Results will be announced at the Awards Evening in County Hall on 1 July, and the Hertfordshire Village of the Year East, North and West trophies will be unveiled in Presentation Ceremonies on 24 July.

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MOAT CLEANS UP THE NEIGHBOURHOOD WITH ESSEX LITTER PICK UPS
19 March 2010

Local residents and staff from Moat and Burnham on Crouch Town Council, a local Police Community Support Officer and students from St Peter’s School in Burnham on Crouch taken part in a litter pick in the area surrounding Millfields sheltered housing scheme. The clean up was organised by Moat and Burnham on Crouch Town Council and in total the volunteers collected 20 sacks of rubbish, five tyres, one old bike and an old scooter. The event was organised as part of Moat’s commitment for staff to become more involved in Moat communities and to increase knowledge of all areas of the organisation. Moat and Maldon District Council staff got stuck into tidying up the neighbourhood and built on the already successful partnership with local residents. Caroline Kay, Moat’s community development officer, said: “It’s important to maintain community pride and a sense of responsibility for the neighbourhoods in which we live and work. This litter pick allowed us and residents to work side by side to tidy up Millfields and spend some time outside in the long awaited sunshine.”

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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: Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Fusion21 are seeking an experienced project coordinator based in Huyton. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest.Closing Date: March 19. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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. West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. Tenders North Glasgow Housing Association is inviting tenders for Internal Audit Services. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 2. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. DGHP Ltd is inviting tenders for a new housing development. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 12. 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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