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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
08 March 2010
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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR NEW BOARD MEMBERS?
08 March 2010
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Are you looking for new board members? If your association is looking for new board members why not advertise in Housing News.
Our free daily news bulletin is the best read housing publication in your region and we offer our advertisers real value for money.
Don’t take our word for it -- look what Jenny George, marketing & communication assistant at Two Rivers Housing Association has to say:
“We recently used the Housing News to advertise for a vacancy on our Board, I’m pleased to say we had the highest number of responses for this position than any other advertisement we placed, it was excellent value for money. As a marketing professional I look forward to receiving the bulletin, it helps keep me up-to-date with local, regional and national news. And the best part is it’s free!”
To advertise, contact Hucksters at 01892 784804 or email: housingnews@hucksters.co.uk
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IAN AUSTIN MP VISITS MERCIAN’S FLAGSHIP SCHEME
08 March 2010
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Birmingham-based Mercian Housing Association has received a visit from Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Housing and Minister for the West Midlands, Ian Austin.
Picture: David Rhead, HCA with Alan Fraser, Chief Exec YMCA and Laurice Ponting, Chief Executive at Mercian Housing with Ian Austin MP at The Orchard.
Mr Austin spent time at The Orchard - Mercian’s flagship redevelopment of the Erdington YMCA to provide high quality, supported homes for formerly homeless young people in Birmingham.
Mr Austin heard how Mercian, which is part of leading affordable housing provider Circle Anglia, is working together with the YMCA, Birmingham City Council and the Homes & Communities Agency on this project.
Mr Austin also learnt how Mercian is helping to enhance the Life Chances of its residents across the West Midlands by working with them to develop sustainable communities and tackle worklessness.
He then took part in a tour of the site to view the progress on the building which is due for completion in 2011, before meeting some of the residents of the existing YMCA hostel.
When complete, phase 1 of the development will consist of 83 self-contained flats, providing supported accommodation and phase 2 will provide facilities not just for the residents, but for the whole community, including; a day nursery, lounge, internet café, gym and shops.
Mr Austin said, “It’s wonderful to see the work that’s going on here in Erdington. It’s an excellent example of partnership working to meet the housing and regeneration needs of the region. This will be a fantastic facility for vulnerable young people in Birmingham, giving them not only support, but opportunities too, helping to secure the future of this area.”
Laurice Ponting, Chief Executive at Mercian said, “Mercian is delighted to be working in partnership on this iconic project. We are committed to enhancing people’s Life Chances by building sustainable homes in the communities we work in. These supported homes and facilities mean that not only will residents have a safe roof over their heads, but they will also have the opportunity to take part in essential life skills workshops and community projects that will help to prepare them to lead a more independent future.”
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NEW DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY INVESTMENT APPOINTED AT SANCTUARY
08 March 2010
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Kate Still
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Sanctuary Group has appointed Kate Still to the position of Director of Community Investment and Involvement.
Reporting to Simon Clark, Sanctuary Group’s Director – Housing and Communities, Kate will be responsible for ensuring that Sanctuary works closely with residents to build and support vibrant, sustainable communities through investment in local activities and training opportunities.
In partnership with external organisations and agencies, she will ensure that Sanctuary is making the most of available funding to bring long-term benefits to residents.
Prior to joining Sanctuary, Kate has held a number of high profile roles including her position as Head of Social Economy for the South East England Development Agency where she was responsible for strengthening relationships between the nine Regional Development Agencies (RDA’s) and Central Government.
Kate, who joins Sanctuary from Richmond Housing Partnership where she was Head of Social Investment and Enterprise, said: “I was attracted to the position at Sanctuary because I was keen to work for an organisation that is committed to providing a first class service to its residents. Investment in communities is even more important in tough economic times, when we need to give residents greater support in accessing opportunities that will make a long-term difference to their lives.
“I am looking forward to harnessing Sanctuary’s fantastic reputation and helping to transform neighbourhoods into places our residents are proud to call home.”
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WCH CUSTOMER IN THE RUNNING FOR TOP REGIONAL AWARD
08 March 2010
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Worcester Community Housing (WCH) customer Mark Davies of Cranham Court Worcester is in the running to receive a top regional award. He has been named on a shortlist of ten tenants that are competing for the Midlands Tenant of the Year accolade at the 3nd Annual Connecting People Awards.
Organised by the Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS), the Connecting People Awards have been designed to celebrate the very best achievements of tenants and housing associations who work in communities all over the region.
Mark, a Parkinson's Disease sufferer, received his nomination is for his groundbreaking work to help improve local housing services and to ensure equality and diversity issues are top of the agenda for WCH staff. Despite his debilitating condition, Mark regularly shares his practical knowledge on disability by talking about how personal assumptions, stereo typing and prejudice can affect decision making process and ultimately affect the housing services on offer.
Head of Customer Services and Involvement at WCH Di Smith, said: “It is fantastic to see Mark up for this award. He is one of the select few that can inspire and encourage others on a personal and professional level. He helps to hone our understanding of disability issues and encourages staff to plan and deliver the very best. “
The results will be announced on 18 March at an award ceremony at the St John's Hotel Solihull. Housing Association residents, tenant liaison officers and community groups from all over the region will be there to see who scoops the coveted award.
If Mark is successful he will go through to the national final which will be held during the TPAS annual conference in Birmingham this summer.
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SANDWELL TENANTS SIGN UP FOR TACKLING ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR EVENT
08 March 2010
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Sandwell Homes residents are being offered the chance to get practical advice on how to tackle anti-social behaviour at a free event today.
The event is aimed at anyone who has ever "felt powerless to do anything about graffiti, vandalism or noisy neighbours".
It will be held at the Bethel Convention Centre, Kelvin Way, West Bromwich, from 9.15am-2.15pm, with lunch provided.
The Department of Communities & Local Government is organising the event, which is open to anyone who lives or works in Sandwell.
The event offers practical advice to attendees on what can be done and how they can work together to tackle neighbourhood anti-social behaviour issues. It will pass on lessons from those who have succeeded in bringing about change by working together.
Among the expected speakers are Sandwell Council's community protection manager Phil Gilbert, anti-social behaviour team manager Janine Green and anti-social behaviour co-ordinator Abdul Rahim, Inspector Ian Massey from Sandwell police and Reg New from Sandwell Homes' community safety & estate services division.
Councillor Simon Hackett, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for safer communities, said: "We welcome the Department of Communities & Local Government holding an event for people in Sandwell.
"Working together through the Safer Sandwell Partnership, the council, police, other organisations and the local community are successful at tackling anti-social behaviour.
But we know it continues to be a real concern for some people in the borough.
"Sandwell is a great place to live with great people and great prospects - and we are all committed to stamping out problems caused by a small minority of troublemakers.
"We want Sandwell people to be aware of what support and powers are available to tackle anti-social behaviour and would encourage them to sign up to take advantage of the advice on offer."
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WOLVERHAMPTON HOMES TO IMPROVE CONCIERGE SERVICE
08 March 2010
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Wolverhampton Homes has to change the way it delivers its concierge service because tenants have said the cost is too high.
Wolverhampton Homes provides a concierge service on nine estates. The service costs in the region of £15 a week per customer but in 2007, tenants were only paying £3.15 a week.
Customers who do not receive the concierge service were effectively subsidising it for those who do. Tenants, councillors, officers and the Audit Commission all agreed this was not fair.
Following a detailed consultation by Wolverhampton Homes, tenants said that generally they did not want to pay more than £9 for the service. The price is currently £7.15 and is going up to £9.15 in April.
Wolverhampton City Council, which sets rent and service charges for tenants, decided to put the price of the service charge up by £2 per year for the concierge service until it covered its costs.
It is critical that Wolverhampton Homes responds to tenants’ wishes and finds more efficient ways to deliver the service.
As part of the service, there are a series of daily fire safety checks which must be carried out as a statutory duty. These take an average of two hours per block.
Wolverhampton Homes has 57 concierge positions, seven of which are vacant. It plans to make eight staff redundant and to delete the vacant posts, which will save £375,000 a year.
Over five years, this will cover the cost of borrowing £1.6million to centralise the CCTV door entry services. It will mean that tenants will be able to ultimately opt for a reduced service, for a reduced price.
We have consulted with tenants thoroughly on this service by:
• Attending Special Flatted Estates Forums in May and July 2008
• Putting on nine road shows for tenants on individual estates in April 2009
• Surveying 3,000 tenants requesting their views on the Concierge Service
• Responses were received from approximately 300 people, who were largely supportive of the changes.
By reducing the number of staffed concierge offices by eight and increasing the use of CCTV, Wolverhampton Homes can provide an improved quality, better value service with greater choice for customers.
Currently, tenants have no choice about the level of service they receive or the price they pay, but changing the way the concierge service is delivered means that:
• Tenants who do not receive the concierge service will not be subsidising those who do
• The cost to tenants will be reflected in the service they choose
• Tenants will receive a more thorough and consistent service
• Tenants will be able to opt for a level of service and price that suits their estate.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
08 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
JOBS
Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job.
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Chief Executive based in the North East, salary £108k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 15.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Housing Assistant (Temporary). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Property Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 15.
Tenders
Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8.
To reach the best candidates in the social housing sector, advertise your top jobs in one of our eight regional newsletters or go national to over 40,000 readers. For more information, call Hucksters on 01892 784804. |
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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
09 March 2010
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HOUSING AND JOBS SUPPORT FOR NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME
09 March 2010
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Sinead Butters
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Hundreds of vulnerable people in Newcastle-under-Lyme will get extra support as Aspire Housing secures a bumper contract with Staffordshire County Council.
Aspire will provide a much-needed ‘floating support’ service to elderly, homeless and unemployed people, enabling them to live independently in their own homes.
The housing association has won £150,000 funding from Supporting People for the project to assist customers and non Aspire residents in the area.
Three new services are available from Aspire’s Independent Living team: Support for people over the age of 55, temporary accommodation for anyone in need of permanent housing, and tailor-made training for 16-25 year-olds seeking work.
The pioneering initiative will also target residents who may be experiencing problems moving into a new home.
Sinead Butters, Chief Executive of The Aspire Group, said: “We are committed to promoting independence and enabling our customers to access, manage and maintain suitable housing, whatever their current situation.
“Through our social enterprise arm PM Training, we are also working particularly hard to help local young people find sustainable employment.
“This floating support provides a valuable lifeline to a wide range of people, and I am delighted we can provide this service for at least the next two years, working with both Staffordshire County Council and Newcastle Borough Council.”
The Aspire Group provides more than 20,000 customers with quality affordable homes and services across North Staffordshire and South Cheshire.
Committed to improving homes and neighbourhoods, and transforming the life chances of local people, it consists of Aspire Housing, PM Training and a soon-to-be-launched charity.
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VITAL FINANCIAL LIFELINE GAINS HOMEZONE SUPPORT
09 March 2010
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Two Lichfield organisations have joined forces to help local people by providing a vital lifeline for those grappling with their finances.
HomeZone Living is working with Fusion Credit Union to improve the financial services available to people throughout the city who may be struggling to cope with the effects of the economic downturn and keep them out of the clutches of loan sharks.
HomeZone Living has provided rent-free furnished offices for Fusion’s administration team at Edgeworth House, Oakenfield. Edgeworth House is also the housing association’s temporary accommodation for people who are homeless in north Lichfield.
Michael Pritchard, neighbourhood investment manager at HomeZone Living, said: “Some people may be tempted to go to rogue organisations that take advantage of them and charge extortionate rates of interest instead of a low rate which is affordable. Credit unions can help them avoid falling into this trap which can quickly spiral out of control. We have been able to provide rent free accommodation for Fusion and the volunteers who run the credit union were overwhelmed by our offer.”
He added: “We are also trying to establish collection points in areas where HomeZone Living has properties, particularly in Lichfield and Burntwood and at Beacon Park Retirement Village. We are working alongside residents of the retirement village with a view to assembling a team of volunteers to run the scheme and offer the facility to all people aged over 55 in our communities.”
Credit unions are not-for-profit, community-based savings and loans co-operatives. Members are the only shareholders and may receive an annual dividend on their savings based on the performance of the organisation. Credit unions help those who can’t get access to ordinary bank products, becoming a lifeline for many living in less well-off communities grappling with their finances. For many they are a welcome alternative to payday loans or doorstep lending, who typically charge rates in excess of 200% APR.
Members savings provide a pool of funds from which loans can be made. Members pay interest on loans at a rate (presently 12.68% APR) well below other unsecured loan rates. Objectives include the promotion of thrift among its members by the accumulation of savings; the creation of sources of credit for the benefit of members at a fair and reasonable rate of interest; the use and control of members' savings for their mutual benefit; encouraging members in the wise use of money and management of their financial affairs.
Janet Bamber, treasurer of Fusion Credit Union, said: “We are very pleased to be working with HomeZone Living as we see a wide range of mutual benefits arising from this partnership.
“The demand for our services is rising significantly with a 27% increase in our membership in our last financial year and a 50% rise in loans in the last three months. The Edgeworth House offices provide wonderful facilities for our team of ‘back room’ volunteers as they meet these increasing demands. The opportunities which have already been identified for new collection points will also go a long way to help Fusion meet its target of a 50% increase in membership over the next two years.”
Fusion Credit Union’s membership is open to anyone who lives or works within the boundaries of Lichfield District Council. It was registered in 2005 and is entirely run by volunteers.
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DIPLOMA STUDENTS LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS
09 March 2010
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Martin Holland
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Shropshire Housing Group is making its expertise available to pupils at two South Shropshire schools to support their diploma qualifications.
Experts from the social landlord are bringing their knowledge to the curriculum for two brand new diplomas, which will help students learn through teamwork with real businesses.
Diplomas are new qualifications that deliver learning through the context of different occupations.
Shropshire Housing Group will be supporting diplomas in Business Administration & Finance (BAF) and Construction and the Built Environment (CAB), and is working with Lacon Childe School, at Cleobury Mortimer, and Church Stretton School.
Students taking the CAB diploma will get a real life context for their learning by being able to examine the new Ashbrook Farm development, at Church Stretton, looking at factors such as how environmental considerations impact on the design and build process.
The Church Stretton students have already received at presentation at Shropshire Housing Group's headquarters from its development team and building consultant Alan Fox, of Fox Associates, on the various aspects of the project, including the need for community consultation in the design and planning of any new development.
As the new diplomas get underway, Shropshire Housing Group chief executive, Martin Holland, has also paid a visit to Lacon Childe School to provide support, insight and advice to the pupils.
Helen Vaughan, regeneration officer at South Shropshire Housing Association, which is part of Shropshire Housing Group, said: "Shropshire Housing Group is extremely committed to community support and education, so sharing the knowledge and expertise of our staff with diploma students makes tremendous sense. Connecting learning with the real world of work makes the whole process so much more interesting and effective."
SSHA’s support for the diplomas extends the work of its Advantage West Midlands funded Homegrown project, which is also helping to prepare young people for work.
Homegrown works with employers to provide hands-on taster activities to inspire young people’s interest in local work opportunities.
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PLANNING PERMISSION GRANTED FOR £6 MILLION TELFORD DEVELOPMENT
09 March 2010
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A proposal by The Wrekin Housing Trust for the redevelopment of Dothill has now been approved by Telford & Wrekin Council.
The decision was made at their recent Planning Committee meeting.
The development of Dothill in Wellington will see the demolition of 90 flats, to be replaced with 59 new homes which will include two, three and four bedroom houses, three bedroom maisonettes and two bedroom flats. The flats have been designed to be modern and contemporary - a palette of colours will be carried through from the flats to the houses to give a cohesive appearance.
Parking will be fully catered for, with a mix of parking to the front and back of the properties, and located to be accessible to the homes. All of the houses will feature ample garden space, while residents in the flats will have improved links to ‘private’ communal garden spaces to the rear of the blocks.
The Trust recently held an information evening to keep local residents informed of the proposals and progress. Members of the Trust’s development team were on hand, along with the architects appointed to the project, to welcome residents’ questions and explain the plans for the site in more detail. Around one hundred residents attended the event.
A Kickstart bid for funding from the Homes & Communities Agency was also submitted in January and the Trust will receive confirmation of whether they have been successful in securing the funding in April.
Development manager for the Trust, Jean Teichman, said: “The development will improve the quality of the housing provision in the area. The homes will be built to achieve the Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4 and will provide local people with modern, affordable homes in an attractive environment. We are looking forward to moving forward with the development.”
Specialists appointed to work with the Trust on the project include ecologists, wildlife experts and arboriculturists to ensure the landscaping is sympathetic to the overall surroundings and maximises views over Dothill pool and the surrounding parkland. Parking provision has been designed to meet modern family needs.
Attention has been given to the size and layout of the properties to ensure they meet local need. The location of the Dothill development is in an established community, close to the centre of Wellington, with good local amenities and access to public transport.
Much thought has been given to community safety. Lower quality trees and bushes will be removed to open up the site and exploit views of the parkland to the east. Trees of importance will be retained, and specialists have been appointed to oversee a tree-planting scheme.
The layout, positioning and design of the new properties will ensure that existing residents will maintain views through the development to the wider park beyond. The homes will be spaced sufficiently so there is no adverse impact in terms of overlooking or loss of privacy or light.
A local lettings plan has been drawn up to ensure homes are let to people from various age ranges, as well as taking into account the number of people per property and ensuring that the estate is mixed tenure - some properties will be sold, some rented and a number will be made available for shared ownership.
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QUICKER HOUSING REPAIRS THANKS TO NEW TECHNOLOGY
09 March 2010
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Marches Housing Association is now offering an improved repairs service after new technology was introduced to improve efficiency.
Repairs contractor Property Care Partnership (PCP) has introduced the use of handheld computers to improve communication.
The Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) have been issued to contractors to receive details of jobs and log their progress.
The equipment will help to improve the time it takes for Marches to inform PCP that a repair needs to be carried out and will improve the appointment system, make it easier to schedule jobs and give immediate confirmation that a job has been completed.
It will also provide immediate feedback from the customer on the quality of service delivery by using an electronic survey.
Chris Boote, Director of Operations at Marches, said: “This improved electronic communication between Marches and PCP has a string of benefits when it comes to getting repairs booked quickly and means that we are able to resolve queries faster and more efficiently.”
The Association’s day-to-day repairs and maintenance contract was awarded to PCP in April 2008 following a re-tendering process.
The new contracting arrangements helped to raise customer satisfaction to 96 per cent in the last 6 months.
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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
10 March 2010
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SPOTLIGHT
10 March 2010
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WORCESTER BROWNFIELD SITE SET TO HOUSE 22 NEW HOMES
10 March 2010
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A derelict site on the edge of Worcester city centre is set to be transformed into much needed homes thanks to a high-quality redevelopment by Rooftop Housing Group.
The £2.5million scheme in the Lowesmoor area of the city will see a former GP surgery turned into 22 much-needed affordable homes for rent.
The development, which has just received planning permission, will vary in height between three and five storeys and will provide 20 two-bedroom flats and two one-bedroom flats. Fifteen car parking spaces and bicycle storage are also included in the plans, while the nearby mini-roundabout junction will also be redesigned.
Tim Wade, Head of Development at Rooftop Housing Group, said: "We are delighted to have received planning permission for this exciting scheme that will provide much-needed affordable homes for rent. This environmentally sustainable development will feature high-quality contemporary design that will add greatly to the regeneration of this important brownfield site. We have undertaken extensive consultation locally to address any potential issues and thanks to the support of Worcester City Council, the Matrix Housing Partnership and the HCA, we can now look forward to starting work on this landmark project."
Councillor Paul Denham for Worcester City Council, added: "This is an ideal location for affordable housing because it's within easy walking distance of shops, railway stations and many buses passing by."
The new properties will be built to at least Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3 which mean they will be at least 25% more energy efficient than homes built as recently as 2006.
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PROJECT LAUNCHED TO HELP PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA STAY IN OWN HOMES
10 March 2010
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A unique pilot project has been launched to help people with dementia to live at home rather than go into residential care by assisting them with day-to-day tasks like paying bills.
The At Home Project, piloted by Accord Housing Association, will work with people with the progressive brain condition and their families to arrange visits to day centres and adaptations to their homes to make them safer.
The Project’s team will also help with tasks such as setting up direct debts so that residents don’t forget to pay their bills and rent, putting their tenancies at risk.
They will also encourage people to get involved in community activities, prompt people to take medication, eat healthy and maintain their home and provide information on dementia issues and a whole lot more.
The two year project comes as an Audit Commission report warned that Councils will struggle to cope with the financial challenge posed by the country’s ageing population.
Michael O’Higgins, Chairman of the Audit Commission, has said that the longer older people live at home the happier they are and the less they cost the taxpayer.
Dora Scott, who manages Accord Housing Association’s At Home Project, said: “There are 700,000 people living with dementia in the UK and this is set to rise to a staggering 1.4 million over the next 30 years, it’s therefore critical that we put projects like this into place to sustain the wellbeing of people.
“Supporting people with dementia to stay in their own homes allows individuals to have more choice and control about their own futures and encourages people to remain independent for as long as possible.
“This is hugely beneficial not only to them and their families but also to the country as a whole as it can save a vast amount of public money which could reduce the burden on the taxpayer.”
The At Home Project is being piloted in East Staffordshire, including Cannock, Lichfield, Stafford and Tamworth. If successful the Project could be rolled out to other areas.
The At Home Project, funded by Staffordshire’s Supporting People, is free and confidential. It supports people with dementia – whatever their age – for a maximum of 2 years.
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ORBIT CARE & REPAIR SHORTLISTED AS HOUSING HEROES
10 March 2010
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Orbit Care & Repair in Coventry is celebrating after being shortlisted for Care Team of the Year in the Housing Heroes Awards.
Orbit Care & Repair (Coventry) is down to the final six in the Care Team of the Year category of the Housing Heroes Awards.
The awards are in their second year and will once again, shine the spotlight on the people and teams that are doing great work in the social/affordable housing sector.
Orbit Care & Repair in Coventry provides hospital discharge, handy person services, adaptations, repairs, equity release and a Crisis Support Service in Coventry.
Services are available to home owners and private tenants, clients are predominantly elderly residents who may also have learning difficulties, enabling clients to continue living in their own homes and retain independence.
The team has been shortlisted for its work with adults who hoard. Hoarders keep objects to such an extent that their living space is impaired. Many of Orbit’s hoarders would have been classed as homeless due to lack of amenities.
Despite an estimated 2% of the UK population being classed as hoarders, care services rarely offer support with some social workers and psychologists regard hoarding as a lifestyle choice, therefore, Orbit Care & Repair (Coventry) offers a unique service which clients wouldn’t otherwise receive.
The awards are organised by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), and attracted a phenomenal response (over 300 entries) with submissions from the length and breadth of the UK.
Kathie Martin, Orbit Care & Repair Manager said: “I am delighted that the team has been shortlisted for such a prestigious award and our hard work in this unique area has been recognised. The award will help promote our work to people who may need our help or know someone who is in need of support. Fingers crossed.”
Orbit Care & Repair Coventry is one of six Home Improvement Agencies within the Orbit Group.
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WOLVERHAMPTON HOMES GETS MONEY SMART
10 March 2010
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Tenants of Wolverhampton Homes are being invited to get money smart by taking advantage of a team of cash experts.
The Money Smart team at Wolverhampton Homes can help tenants maximise their incomes by accessing benefits, save money on their utilities and sign post to other agencies.
They also have vast experience of helping tenants tackle their debts, setting up credit union accounts and creating realistic household budgets so that they can manage their finances effectively.
Heather Leary, Money Smart Manager, said: “Everyone knows times are tough at the moment, so being smart about money has never been more important.
“We’ve helped tenants save thousands of pounds over the past three years and supported hundreds of families to tackle their debt.
“We’re a completely free service and we can help tenants access top quality financial advice. Regardless of the situation you’re in, there is always a way out and we can always help.”
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SARH CUSTOMER SHORT-LISTED IN NATIONAL AWARDS
10 March 2010
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A single mum who has dedicated herself to helping others in the community has made the regional shortlist for a national award.
Stafford and Rural Homes entered one of their customers, Denny Corbett, into the Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS) Tenant of the Year award due to her commitment to helping others in Rising Brook.
“I’m absolutely amazed to be shortlisted for this award. The community has lots of people who do great work and I’m just one person doing my bit,” said Denny, 54.
“It is really important that we work together as a community to make where we live a better place for our children to grow up and to make sure we build stronger relations between the generations living in the area.”
SARH nominated Denny for the award because of her hard work and dedication to supporting others in her community.
Chris Plant, Customer Participation Manager for SARH, said: “Denny has a great understanding of her community’s needs and, as a result, is never far away when someone needs some neighbourly advice.”
Denny is the chair of Rising Brook South Tenants’ and Residents’ Association and has also served on the Executive Committee of SARH Tenants and Residents Association.
As if she was not busy enough, Denny also sits on the Rising Brook Baptist Church quarterly forum, is a Stafford and Rural Homes customer inspector, runs a youth forum and sits on various customer focus groups and joint consultation groups within SARH.
Denny is able to combine all this work with being a mum-of-three and serving as a school governor.
A long list of Denny’s roles includes working with Stafford Borough Council on public forum issues and a place on the Community Allotments Association.
Her people skills have allowed her to form links with local and county councillors as well as the police.
“Denny is proving an inspiration to other customers in how they communicate with us and other organisations. They really look up to her and have seen that her direct, but polite approach can lead to great results for the community,” said Chris Plant.
The TPAS Tenant of the Year award is initially contested in three regions; the North, Midlands and Southern.
Denny has been shortlisted in the Midlands regional finals and an awards dinner to announce the winner will take place at the St John’s Hotel Birmingham, in Solihull, on March 18, 2010.
The Midlands winner will then go forward to the national final, and the overall winner will be announced at the TPAS annual conference in August 2010.
Karen Armitage, Chief Executive of SARH, said: “We are delighted that Denny’s efforts in the local community have led her to be shortlisted in this prestigious award and everyone at SARH wishes her all the best in the regional finals.”
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
10 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
JOBS
Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job.
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Chief Executive based in the North East, salary £108k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 15.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Housing Assistant (Temporary). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Property Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 15.
Tenders
Craigdale Housing Association is inviting tenders for a Tenant Satisfaction Survey. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 8.
To reach the best candidates in the social housing sector, advertise your top jobs in one of our eight regional newsletters or go national to over 40,000 readers. For more information, call Hucksters on 01892 784804. |
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SPOTLIGHT
11 March 2010
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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
11 March 2010
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BIRMINGHAM’S HOUSE BUILDING PLANS SET FOR BOOST
11 March 2010
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Birmingham City Council is preparing to bid for funding to deliver 200 high quality new family homes.
Cabinet has approved plans to seek financial support to deliver homes across a range of tenures, through the Government’s Public Land Initiative at its meeting on 8 March 2010.
The council is seeking to build at least 200 homes through the initiative and is keen to start construction this year, with homes complete and ready for occupation by 2012.
The council is contributing its own land through the initiative, at a value of £4.3 million and will seek Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) funding towards the cost of building new rented homes, creating a mix of tenures available.
Potential areas of house building include Pype Hayes, Bournville, Newtown and Sheldon.
The Public Land Initiative (PLI) is designed to stimulate private housebuilding in the wake of the recent recession, bringing new construction players into the housing market using land in public ownership.
Rather than selling land outright to these developers, the council will benefit from HCA grant and ‘deferred payment’ based on the profits made by the private developer.
As part of the council’s drive to address worklessness, apprenticeship opportunities in the construction industry will be available as part of the house building programme. Young people will be able to develop new skills with on the job training.
Cllr John Lines, Cabinet Member for Housing, said, “We need to build new homes to meet the needs of our people, both those who want to rent and those who want to buy. The Public Land Initiative is one way that we can encourage the private sector to start building again and it’s great news that Cabinet has given us the green light”.
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£3.2MILLION INVESTMENT TO MAKE 400 STAFFORD HOMES MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT
11 March 2010
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Stafford and Rural Homes (SARH), in partnership with British Gas, will begin its largest project of environmental improvements to its homes, which will include upgrading 400 homes in Highfields to make them more energy efficient.
Lawyers for British Gas and SARH are currently finalising details of the joint project, which is due to start in March.
The project is part of the Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP), which is a joint initiative between the government, energy suppliers and power generators that will see a total of £350 million worth of energy efficiency measures installed over three years.
SARH has received funding to invest in energy efficient improvements including: new energy efficient condensing boilers, conversion of some homes from electric heating to gas and additional loft insulation and external cladding.
The funding will specifically target low income households, helping them to save money by cutting their energy bills.
In addition, residents will also be given advice about what they can do themselves to make their properties more energy efficient, through a series of Green Home Assessments.
Karen Armitage, Chief Executive of SARH, said: "This project is a massive achievement in our commitment to tackling fuel poverty in the Stafford area and helping customers who are on low incomes to reduce the cost of their energy bills. This is a really important project that will benefit a large number of our customers in Highfields. Even simple measures, such as improved loft insulation, could save an average of £150 a year on their fuel bills."
Phil Bentley, Managing Director of British Gas, said: "Households account for a quarter of the UK's total CO2 emissions. By focusing on homes in communities across the country, we can make a significant impact on our national carbon footprint and cut the bills of Britain's most hard-pressed families.
"As the country's biggest energy supplier, we are well placed to take the lead in helping people become more energy efficient. This is why we're very pleased to be the first energy supplier to begin CESP projects."
David Kidney, MP for Stafford and Parliamentary Under-Secretary at the Department of Energy and Climate Change, said: "I am thrilled that Stafford residents will be benefiting from work by British Gas and Stafford & Rural Homes under the Community Energy Saving Programme. Helping those in need is a key priority for the Government and making homes more energy efficient is the best way for people to cut their carbon footprint, save money and increase their comfort."
British Gas will be spending approximately £70 million on CESP projects across the UK.
Other CESP projects led by British Gas will help low income homes in Birmingham, Chester, Dundee, Glasgow, Haringey, Knowsley, Preston, Southwark, Swansea and Walsall.
British Gas will be working with local authorities in each area as well as a number of charities including Scope, Help the Aged, Money Advice Trust and the RNIB.
CESP is expected to benefit around 90,000 households across the country by 2012 and will help to tackle climate change by saving nearly four million tonnes of CO2 emissions.
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£3.3M SHIFNAL REDEVELOPMENT OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED
11 March 2010
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South Staffordshire Housing Association, part of the Housing Plus Group and local contractor, Thomas Vale Construction have announced the official launch of the £3.3m new build contract to redevelop Yew Tree Court in Shifnal, after a successful sod cutting ceremony took place to mark the occasion.
The former sheltered housing scheme was vacated in early 2008 to make way for 30 new independent self-contained apartments with a further 3 bungalows all for the over 55’s.
The project which has received £1.3m grant funding from the Homes and Communities Agency will provide much needed affordable housing in Shifnal. Developed by the Housing Plus Group, the new energy efficient apartments will also benefit from a residents’ lounge and kitchen.
Ursula Bennion, Director of Business Development for Housing Plus, said, “We are delighted to have signed the contract with Thomas Vale Construction to undertake the re-development of Yew Tree Court. We have listened to suggestions from local people on the design of the scheme and have really tried to make it something the community will be proud of. It really is great news for the local people.”
Ian Cox, Partnership and Development Director for Thomas Vale Construction, said: “We are passionate about providing quality accommodation for older people. This is further evidence of our growing expertise in this sector.”
The new apartments and bungalows are due for completion in October 2010.
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ASHRAM PROMOTES ECO-FRIENDLY BEAUTY TREATMENT TO TENANTS
11 March 2010
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Ashram Housing Association is celebrating International Women’s Day by holding a series of environmentally friendly ‘pampering days’ across Birmingham.
Ghulab, a residential home for older people, and Bosworth Drive Community Centre will both host events where women can come along and enjoy a free beauty session using environmentally-friendly products.
Ashram has already held an event this week in partnership with Birmingham Link at the St Paul’s Centre in Birmingham.
“We come into contact with many women who have tough and demanding lives and they deserve this opportunity for a bit of pampering,” said Jasvinder Kainth, who is organising the event at Bosworth Drive.
“But it’s not just an opportunity to have a bit of fun – we’re also integrating Ashram’s ‘Goal to be Green’ into everything we do, and looking at ways that people can be more sustainable in their daily life.”
A key aim of all the events is also to give women the chance to have a say on the issues that affect them in their community and get help and advice on a range of issues.
“The women who Ashram typically work with are from disadvantaged backgrounds and have often had very difficult lives”, said Jasvinder.
“They often feel that they don’t have much control over what happens to them. We feel it’s important to give them a platform to voice their concerns.”
All of the events are free and include provision for childcare.
Today's event will take place at Ghulab Ashram 11am-2pm.
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PLANTING COMMUNITY SPIRIT IN COVENTRY
11 March 2010
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Green fingered cadets from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Squadron Air Cadets teamed up with Whitefriars Housing Group to put their gardening skills to use on Saturday 6 March by planting 60 trees and 60 bushes on a Bell Green housing estate.
The cadets were taking part in a planting scheme in partnership with The Woodland Trust, using land provided by Whitefriars, to improve the environment for local residents.
The Woodland Trust donated trees and hedging plants to encourage the cadets to learn about, and engage in, woodland conservation. This initiative is part of the Trust’s Tree for All campaign, which aims to involve two million children in planting 12 million trees.
Over the course of the morning the cadets planted 20 silver birch, 20 rowan and 20 wild cherry trees as well as 60 hedgerow plants on land in Purcell Road.
Cadet Andrew Reed who helped out with the planting thoroughly enjoyed the experience and can’t wait to come back to the site to see the trees and hedge row plants once they have grown.
The planting event was coordinated and organised by the squadron’s event organiser Roni Tillman who admitted finding the land to plant the trees on was not an easy task. She said “Whitefriars Housing Group has been fantastic.
They have pulled out all the stops to find suitable land for the squadron, which they didn’t need to do. The cadets have had a fantastic time planting the trees and they look forward to seeing them fully grown in years to come.”
As well as the beneficial effects for the environment, the cadets can also use the planting experience as part of their community qualification in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme which they are participating in.
Kelly Lewis, Whitefriars’ Bell Green estates service manager, said: “We are delighted to be working with the air cadets to deliver improvements to Purcell Road.
“It’s great to see young people taking pride in local communities and this is just one example of how working in partnership can improve neighbourhoods in creative ways.
“We hope local residents will enjoy the new trees for many years to come.”
Tree planting is only one of the many events taking place in 2010 to celebrate 150 years of the cadet movement.
With origins dating back to 1860, the cadet movement is one of the oldest and most successful voluntary youth organisations in the world. A force to be reckoned with, today it numbers 131,000 young people led by 25,000 adult volunteers in well over 3,000 sites across the country.
The Air Training Corps offers opportunities for thousands of young people across the UK.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
11 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
JOBS
Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job.
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Chief Executive based in the North East, salary £108k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 15.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Housing Assistant (Temporary). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Property Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 15.
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!
12 March 2010
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SPOTLIGHT
12 March 2010
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PORTILLO TO SPEAK AT FEDERATION'S HOUSING FINANCE CONFERENCE, COVENTRY
12 March 2010
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Michael Portillo
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Former Tory cabinet minister Michael Portillo will outline what impact a new government will have on the affordable housing sector when he addresses the National Housing Federation's finance conference later this month.
Mr Portillo, who served as chief secretary to the Treasury and local government secretary during a glittering political career, has been confirmed as a speaker at the Federation's three-day conference at Warwick University, Coventry, which gets underway on March 24.
Mr Portillo, who has reinvented himself as a successful broadcaster and political commentator, will also address what a hung Parliament could mean for effective government, and how housing will fare under both a Conservative and Labour government.
Michelle Mone, the entrepreneur behind the Ultimo underwear brand is another famous face speaking at this year's conference.
Clare Miller, executive director, at the Tenants Services Authority, and Richard Hill, corporate director at the Homes and Communities Agency, will meanwhile explain the steps that were taken to set up and establish their agencies during an extraordinarily turbulent period, and what the future now holds for both organisations.
The event, which attracts a wide variety of delegates including chief executives, finance directors and board members, is the leading finance conference in the sector.
Delegate places for the event are still available.
To book your place, or if you would like more information, please visit www.housing.org.uk/events, call 020 7067 1066 or email events@housing.org.uk
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ONE THIRD OF ESTATE AGENTS PROVIDE UNSATISFACTORY HIPS
12 March 2010
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Trading Standards at Birmingham City Council, in conjunction with the Property Codes Compliance Board (PCCB), have undertaken the most comprehensive estate agent and Home Information Pack (HIP) enforcement exercise yet by any Trading Standards authority nationally.
The survey results provide a revealing insight into the estate agency, HIP and personal search markets.
Results revealed that 70% (26 HIPs in total) were rated satisfactory or reasonably satisfactory with 30% (11 HIPs in total) rated unsatisfactory when measured against the HIP regulations, often leaving buyers with no idea who to contact if they have any cause for complaint relating to the content of the HIP.
They have been compulsory since late 2007. In the vast majority of cases, it is the estate agent who is responsible for ensuring that a HIP is produced, but individual private sellers must also comply. The HIP is designed to help potential home buyers make a decision on the sale, by making important property information available at an early stage, including; an Energy Performance Certificate, local authority searches, title documents, guarantees, etc.
The Birmingham survey aimed to identify if estate agents; had HIPs in place for the properties being marketed, were making packs available at the appropriate time, were ensuring packs contained all the required documents and were being provided in the format prescribed by the regulations, and whether the contents were accurate. Particular attention was paid to the accuracy of local search information.
The survey set out to test approximately 25% of the estate agent market within the Birmingham boundary. Teams of Trading Standards staff went to previously identified estate agents, selecting properties being marketed and requesting HIPs to be sent to Trading Standards. As a result, 40 HIPs were requested from as many agents across the city.
Only 37 packs were received and examined, as one property selected was found not to require a HIP since it had been marketed prior to the regulations coming into force. A further two agents were unable to provide HIPs on request and were subsequently issued with penalty charge notices and referred to the OFT for failing to comply with the regulations. The HIPs were then forwarded to the Property Codes Compliance Board (PCCB) for inspection and checking.
Given the complexity of the information, a grading system was developed so that each HIP would be scrutinised using the same criteria and a compliance grading assigned accordingly. Of particular note was the markedly better performance of HIP and Search Code of Practice subscriber firms against unregistered firms, with 87% of HIP Code subscribers ranking satisfactory or reasonably satisfactory and personal searches being found to be on a par with those sourced from local authorities.
The most common faults included:
• no information on complaint / redress procedure
• no consumer information
• no company contact details
• technical Issues with the search
• HIP Index related issues
Birmingham Trading Standards will now formally contact the estate agents, HIP providers and search firms involved in the survey to inform them of their individual results. Any non-compliant companies will be asked to take corrective action as a matter of urgency.
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TRIDENT RESIDENTS MEASURE UP SERVICES THROUGH ‘OPEN DOORS’
12 March 2010
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The Trident Group opened its doors to residents in Birmingham, Sandwell and South Derbyshire earlier this week, to encourage and empower residents to influence and shape the quality and choice of services delivered to them.
The purpose of these interactive advisory sessions was to raise awareness of existing services and enable residents to have their say on how their homes are managed.
The different options available for residents to become directly involved in decision making were also discussed. This includes membership of management boards, steering and focus groups, as well as participating in regular surveys.
With its own Resident Involvement Champions, one of whom has been shortlisted as the TPAS Tenant of the Year 2010, working closely with residents is important to Trident.
In follow up to the ‘Residents’ Think Tank’ focus groups, which took place in 2009 as part of Trident’s status survey, the ‘open days’ were a resounding success attracting almost 200 residents.
Some 93% of attendees were in agreement that they had thoroughly enjoyed the event and found it informative and beneficial to meet members of staff. This included frontline staff, the Group Chief Executive and Directors.
Over 31% of residents said that there had been considerable improvement in Trident’s services over the last 12 months. This can be attributed to the increased level of resident involvement, which is helping to guide the services, ensuring that they meet the needs of residents and the local community. This was echoed by 64% of residents, who agreed that Trident involves customers in decision making about the services and the business overall most of the time.
With homes geographically dispersed across the Midlands, it is important for residents to feel a high level of engagement with staff when they contact the office by telephone. This was resonated by 86% of residents who were happy with the service and agreed that it was both helpful and professional.
John Morris, Trident’s Group Chief Executive, said: “As a social business we have a significant impact on the social and economic fabric of the communities in which we operate. We want our residents to assess and influence the services we provide. The ‘open doors’ events are the first of many and serve as two-way advisory sessions, to ensure that residents’ views are at the heart of decision making. We will be looking to recruit an additional 10 Resident Involvement Champions over the coming months to increase resident participation and help us to build on our successes to date.”
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TENANT LIAISON OFFICER GETS SHORTLISTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
12 March 2010
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Tenant Liaison Officer (TLO) Ellen Hughes is celebrating after being shortlisted for a ‘Tenant Liaison Officer of the year’ award for her outstanding work in the community.
Ellen, who works for Coleshill-based community regeneration specialist Frank Haslam Milan (FHM) West Midlands,, has been nominated for this year’s Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS) Connecting People Awards.
The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 18 at St John’s Hotel in Solihull, Birmingham.
The award recognises Ellen’s remarkable achievements when it comes to working closely with tenants and helping to transform communities in areas where the Government’s Decent Homes programme is taking place.
FHM has been working in partnership with Redditch Borough Council in the delivery of a £9.6 million investment scheme to bring 3,300 properties up to the Government’s Decent Homes standard by 2012.
Ellen’s role as a TLO involves providing constant contact between tenants and the site team and supplying them with accurate information and support at all times.
She visits properties on a daily basis to update tenants on progress and keeps a tenant diary to help tenants identify the programme of works scheduled to take place in their homes.
Ellen puts the needs of the community before her own and regularly goes beyond the call of duty. On one occasion, Ellen noticed that one of her tenants was looking unwell and quickly realised the tenant was diabetic and had suffered a hypo. Ellen sat with the tenant for over an hour to make sure the tenant had recovered before leaving for her next job.
Ellen, 26 said: “I’m thrilled to have been shortlisted for this award.
“I get a great deal of satisfaction from working at the heart of the community as a Tenant Liaison Officer and supporting people while they have their homes transformed.”
Ellen’s ongoing dedication towards work has led to a 97% return rate for questionnaires and an average 98% customer satisfaction score relating to all her properties every month.
Her commitment has helped many people through the refurbishment process, and holding tenant surgeries and ‘meet the builder days’ is an ideal way for Ellen to engage with the local community.
One of Ellen’s notable achievements involved supporting the ‘What’s Your Point’ charity by arranging for FHM to install a new kitchen, cooker and fridge, free of charge.
The charity, which is based at the Bryant building in Redditch, supports youngsters who have become disengaged from mainstream activity.
Martin Kennedy, Customer Care Manager, said: “We are delighted that Ellen has been shortlisted for this award which is thoroughly well deserved as she is a real asset to our team.
“Ellen continually goes the extra mile to help tenants. I think she is so successful at what she does as she always makes time for her tenants and is able to understand what the individual tenant is going through. She is a credit to the team at FHM who are working hard to improve neighbourhoods and bring about quality homes in Redditch.”
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THOMAS VALE RECEIVE AWARD FOR 10 YEAR COMMITMENT TO INVESTORS IN PEOPLE
12 March 2010
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Thomas Vale staff celebrate
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Midlands-based contractors Thomas Vale Construction have received a prestigious award for their long standing commitment to Investors in People.
The Company has been recognised for 10 years and has implemented high standards throughout the business with the help of Investors in People.
Investors in People are the most successful framework for business improvement through people in the UK.
It is used by more than 30,000 organisations in over 50 countries. The Investors in People framework offers a wealth of opportunity to deliver the results companies need to improve productivity and take their organisations further.
Jane Jones, Acting Chief Executive of Investors in People UK, said,“The best advocates for Investors in People are the organisations who have been recognised time and again and who bear testimony to its effectiveness through successive reviews. I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Thomas Vale Construction for their achievement which demonstrates an ongoing commitment to their workforce.“
Tony Hyde, Managing Director, also added:“We are delighted to of received this award, and are proud to be part of Investors in People. With this framework over the past 10 years, the company has held high standard and will continue to achieve and go beyond the standards set by Investors in People.”
Thomas Vale has a turnover of £214million and 830 employees. Recently they have celebrated a record month with over £52 million of new projects secured, bringing the companies forward workload in excess of £550 million.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
12 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
JOBS
Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job.
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22.
North Glasgow Housing Association is inviting tenders for Internal Audit Services. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: April 2.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Chief Executive based in the North East, salary £108k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 15.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Housing Assistant (Temporary). For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a Property Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 15.
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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NEWS 
