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JOB OF THE WEEK: GET YOUR TOP JOB HERE!
01 March 2010
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SPOTLIGHT
01 March 2010
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SANCTUARY GROUP TAKES OWNERSHIP OF LEICESTER HOMES
01 March 2010
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Sanctuary Group has announced the acquisition of 178 properties in Leicester from Riverside Group.
The properties, a mixture of two, three, four and five bedroom houses and a small number of flats, are all based in the Spinney Hill and Highfields areas of Leicester, and were transferred to Sanctuary this week.
Asra Midlands, Sanctuary’s dedicated BME operation in the region, already has an office and a substantial number of properties nearby, making it ideally placed to provide a first class service to residents from its Leicester-based office.
Before the transfer went ahead, all Riverside tenants were given the option to purchase their properties, with a number of sales completed to date.
Ark Housing Consultancy has also played a major role in the successful transfer, acting as Project Manager for Riverside, working with both the tenants and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to Sanctuary.
David Bennett, Chief Executive for Sanctuary Group, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as preferred purchaser for the Riverside properties in Leicester. Our proven local expertise and track record as a provider of focused, first class services to residents makes us perfectly placed to take on the homes in Spinney Hill and Highfields.
“Riverside conducted a formal consultation with all residents through its Resident Panel, newsletter, drop-in sessions, questionnaires and letters, as well as working with independent advisor Priority Estates Projects (PEP) to assist residents in evaluating the proposal, and we are very happy to say there was a positive response. We have worked closely with the team at Riverside to ensure the transfer of properties went as smoothly as possible, and residents have had the opportunity to speak to both landlords about any queries or concerns they had.”
Chris Flynn, Divisional Director of Riverside Midlands, said: “Riverside believes that transferring the homes to one stakeholder, Sanctuary, will enable them to strengthen their interest and assist them to become a major influence in driving forward plans for area wide improvements.”
David Bennett said: “The successful transfer of Riverside properties is just one example of how Sanctuary is looking to consolidate stock in areas where we already operate, ensuring we continue to provide more high quality affordable housing in England and Scotland. There are a number of opportunities across the country to take on housing that matches our current portfolio, where we can step in and offer good local housing management and a bright future for residents.”
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LOVELL CHOSEN BY BLUEPRINT FOR £5.2M NOTTINGHAM SUSTAINABLE HOMES
01 March 2010
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Developer Blueprint has chosen housing specialist Lovell to build a £5.2 million sustainable housing development in Nottingham.
The scheme will create 38 three- and four-bedroom houses in the Green Street / Fraser Road area of The Meadows, Nottingham.
The Meadows, Nottingham
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The new three-storey homes, designed by architects Marsh Grochowski, will be for open market sale by Blueprint. The development is expected to be completed by spring 2011.
Properties will meet Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, the system for measuring the environmental performance of new housing, which means they will achieve a 44 per cent improvement in energy efficiency against current building regulations. The homes will be built using a super-insulated timber-frame system and incorporate air circulation systems, vents and natural heat stacking to maximise warmth in winter and cooling in summer. All timber used will be FSC-approved.
Prospective homebuyers may be eligible for interest-free loans covering up to 30 per cent of the purchase price (subject to terms and conditions). The loans are being made available from regeneration funds provided by Nottingham City Council. Additional general grant funding has been received from the Homes and Communities Agency to help fund the costs of the enhanced design and sustainability features.
Peter Conboy, development director at Blueprint, said: “Blueprint selected Lovell because of their clear commitment and enthusiasm for what we are trying to achieve with our scheme at Green Street in the Meadows. They had a thorough understanding of our core objective and those of our partners, Nottingham City Council and the HCA, which is to raise the bar for sustainable family living in central Nottingham.
“As part of our due diligence we visited Lovell’s exemplar homes at Nottingham University’s School of the Built Environment. What we saw there, and the excellent track record in delivery of highly quality homes nationwide, gave us confidence that Lovell could deliver the highly efficient building fabric that we required for our Green Street homes.”
Margaret Allen, regional director for the Homes and Communities Agency East Midlands, said: “We are pleased to support this scheme, which boasts cutting-edge design and will achieve a Building for Life Gold standard as well as Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4. The project matches the wider regeneration priorities of the city council, and fits the HCA’s remit to create thriving communities and promote great design and quality standards.”
“Lovell has a strong track record in delivering high-quality, low-carbon housing developments,” says Lovell regional director Noel Adams. “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Blueprint and the local community to deliver these new sustainable homes for Nottingham.”
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ECO-HOMES - NOT JUST THE PRIVILEGE OF THE WEALTHY
01 March 2010
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A new research project spearheaded by the University of Leicester is set to influence the building of eco-homes in Britain.
Dr Jenny Pickerill, a Senior Lecturer from the Department of Geography at the University of Leicester, has been awarded a Winston Churchill Travelling Fellowship, to undertake an 8-week project to discover how to make affordable eco-homes a reality.
Dr Pickerill will be travelling to the USA, Argentina, Thailand and Spain to carry out research into the best and least expensive ways to build eco-homes.
The aim of the project is find out the best practice for building eco-homes, and bring the findings back to the UK to prompt the building of more British eco-homes.
For example, a project in New Mexico, has built numerous eco-homes very cheaply using natural materials found locally. The techniques used to make the homes may appear basic, but actually provide for very comfortable, efficient and environmentally friendly housing.
Finding affordable ways to build eco-homes is of central importance to the project. Dr Pickerill aims to ensure that environmentally friendly designs do not become the privilege of the wealthy, but can also be available to those on a lower income.
Dr Pickerill said: “There is a real danger that the rise in popularity of eco-homes will cause more inequality and heighten the rich-poor divide. As environmental issues become more and more topical, we need to keep in mind the economic pressures people face. In the rush to find environmental solutions, we shouldn’t forget social justice.”
Dr Pickerill will begin her 8 week project on the 1st June 2010.
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SUPPORT SCHEME HELPS 130 WOMEN AT RISK
01 March 2010
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A new support service for victims of domestic violence in Leicester has helped 130 women within six months of being launched.
Foundation Housing Association’s SAFE project was set up last July, offering practical help to women in Leicester city.
A five-strong team, including four outreach workers, provides domestic violence and housing-related support, with 48 women on its books at any one time.
Team leader Meena Kumari, said: “The SAFE project has been successful in terms of helping women who might not otherwise have received support.
“We have helped women from all walks of life and in very different circumstances, from students to professional women in their 30s, from mothers who stay at home to a young person forced into marriage.
“People contact us by phone, e-mail and by referral from other agencies. We are now looking at trying to reach more women in need of help by setting up a Facebook and Twitter page.”
One young mother, who sought help from one of the SAFE project’s outreach workers, said: “I genuinely believe that, if I’d not met her, I would not have moved on or survived the abuse I’d experienced. This was the start of a new life for me.”
As well as one-to-one support, SAFE organizes group outings and schemes such as the 12-week Recovery Toolkit programme – the first to be run in Leicester - which ends in April. The course looks at issues around domestic violence, using behavioural therapy to help women by boosting self-esteem and encouraging positive thinking.
Members of the SAFE team and their friends also recently took part in a sponsored walk which raised more than £920 to buy six pay-as-you-go mobile phones, to be made available to high-risk clients so they can easily contact support agencies.
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RIPPLE OF PRAISE FOR RIVER TRENT REGENERATION PROJECT
01 March 2010
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A major regeneration project transforming the Trent River Park into a nationally renowned tourist attraction and access route in Nottingham has been shortlisted for a prestigious award.
The Trent River Park Green Infrastructure project, which was initiated by a number of public bodies in Nottingham, has been shortlisted in shortlisted in the Design and Construction category of The Waterways Renaissance Awards 2010.
The awards, run by The Waterways Trust and British Urban Regeneration Association (BURA), recognise best practice in sustainable waterway regeneration and development throughout the UK.
It is a great accolade for all the partners involved in the project, whose aim is to make the Trent River Park nationally renowned by 2015, as both a key transport corridor in the city and as a major attraction for visitors, residents and commercial activity.
The project consists of four elements: access and landscape improvements at Trent Gateway/Trent Lock – connecting the Erewash Canal to the River Trent, the creation of habitats and improved visitor access on Barton Lane at Attenborough Nature Reserve, creation of a new cycle and pedestrian link at Meadow Lane Lock and access improvement between Stoke Lock and Netherfield Lagoons.
The regeneration was funded by various partners including British Waterways, East Midlands Development Agency (emda), Nottingham City Council, Groundwork Greater Nottingham, The Environment Agency and Nottingham Regeneration Limited.
There was also funding via Greater Nottingham Growth Point Funding.
Diana Gilhespy, emda’s Executive Director of Regeneration, said: “This project is not only improving our environment and quality of life, it’s also ensuring a sustainable future for this important part of the region’s waterways. I’m delighted that it is receiving national recognition through this prominent awards scheme.”
East Midlands waterway manager for British Waterways, Sean McGinley, said: “The Trent River Park project is already bringing significant benefits to Nottingham. The redevelopment of Meadow Lane Lock has further opened up the canal as a cleaner, greener traffic-free route into and out of the city and the project will form a key part of Nottingham’s ongoing local transport plan. The smaller schemes at Trent Lock and Stoke Lock will also make it easier and more appealing for people to visit their local waterway and give them further incentive to explore the fantastic free resource on their doorstep.”
The winners of the 2010 Waterways Renaissance Awards will be announced at a ceremony at the Lowry in Manchester on 17 March. The event will be hosted by Jim Hancock, former BBC North West political editor.
The nominations were judged by an independent assessment panel, comprising waterway, conservation and regeneration experts and chaired by Sir Peter Soulsby MP. The judging process is rigorous and includes three stages of assessment, with finalist projects receiving two visits by independent assessors.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
01 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
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.
Barrow Borough Council is seeking a Community Involvement Manager, salary £24,646 to £28,636 p.a. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northwest. Closing date: March 1.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
West of Scotland Housing Association is seeking a Director of Property Investment. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com/jobs . Closing date: March 1.
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.
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!
02 March 2010
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SPOTLIGHT
02 March 2010
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ARAGON COMMUNITY OFFICER IS REGIONAL FINALIST IN TPAS AWARDS
02 March 2010
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Sasha McGregor
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An Aragon Housing Association officer has been announced as a regional finalist in the prestigious TPAS awards – after tenants requested for her to be nominated.
Sasha McGregor, Community Consultation Officer at Bedfordshire-based social housing provider Aragon Housing Association, has made it through to the Midlands regional finals of the Tenant Participatory Advisory Service (TPAS) awards 2010, due to be held on 18 March in Solihull.
The nomination came after a number of involved tenants requested she be entered in the ‘Tenant Liaison Officer of the Year’ category, due to her dedication and hard work surrounding tenant involvement.
Linda Harrison, Aragon tenant, said: “Her work is of the highest degree and she gives up a lot of what little free time she has to help out wherever she is needed and always has a sunny disposition. How she gets everything done, I just do not know, but you can rely on Sasha one hundred percent and if she has not got the answer, she always knows someone who does. Hard working, dedicated, loyal, trustworthy and caring are just a few of the words that can be used to describe her. I am personally very grateful for all she has done for me and feel very privileged to know and work with her.”
Sasha’s role ensures tenant involvement is at the heart of Aragon’s decision making. She runs a number of customer panels, training and consultation events, often outside normal working hours. She also provides a wide range of information and support to tenants who wish to be involved with Aragon.
Aileen Evans, Managing Director of Aragon, said: “We are very proud of Sasha and the work she does to involve our customers. This is a great achievement for her and we wish her luck at the regional finals in March.”
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MATURE STUDENT FINDS FEET WITH NEW FOUND TALENTS
02 March 2010
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A budding artist from a supported housing scheme in Leicester has been putting his imagination to the test, designing and painting a mural which will create a more welcoming environment for customers and visitors alike.
Cameron Hart, a customer at Midland Heart’s Heathfield House scheme, was commissioned to paint the mural after developing his skills as an art student at Leicester Adult Education College.
Picture Midland Heart support worker Nadine Morris with Cameron Hart from Heathfield House.
The artwork has been designed to transform the ground floor of the scheme, which provides support and guidance to help individuals get back into work or training.
With help from the Heathfield House team, 38 year old Cameron has plans to follow in the footsteps of other customers by continuing his studies at University.
Run in partnership with Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA), Heathfield House provides accommodation to vulnerable adults with a history of substance misuse.
Self-contained apartments and care and support services are offered to individuals who have been drug-free for at least six months, helping them to take the first steps to independent living.
Nadine Morris, support worker at Midland Heart, said: “Cameron has been a pleasure to work with, and is just one of the individuals who, with guidance and training, has found a vocation that inspires and interests them.
“The new mural is a visual reminder of the dedication our customers have shown to overcoming personal challenges and the forward facing nature of the scheme.”
Cameron suggested the idea of the mural at a scheme management meeting, and as resident representative acts as a voice for customers at the scheme.
Cameron said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed heading up this project. Working with other customers in developing the design of the mural has improved my confidence, and the commission has been a welcome opportunity to show what I have learned.”
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FREE ADVICE SESSION TO GIVE THE PEOPLE OF COLCHESTER
02 March 2010
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People in Colchester who want to get onto the property ladder are being invited to attend a HomeBuy event on Thursday 11 March between 11am and 2pm at Angel Court, High Street, Colchester, Essex.
The event is being held by Moat, the government appointed HomeBuy Agent for Essex.
Moat staff will be on hand to talk through the HomeBuy options available, as will representatives from Chelmer Housing Partnership who are also marketing properties in the area.
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MORE SAY ON CARE SERVICES IN LEICESTER
02 March 2010
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A new scheme is being brought in across Leicester to give people more say in how they get help and support from the city council’s adult social care services.
It means that once people have had their personal circumstances, care and support needs assessed, they will have greater control over the services they are entitled to receive through the use of a personal budget.
Letters and leaflets explaining the changes are being sent out to more than 11,000 carers and users of services in the city.
The changes are also explained in the March edition of Leicester Link, the city council’s free civic magazine, which is available now.
Leicester City Council’s cabinet member for adult social care, Councillor Rory Palmer, said: “This is one of the most exciting and important changes the council has driven forward for many years.
“It will change social care and make services more responsive to the needs of this and future generations of service users.
“People have said that they want more control and flexibility over their social care. There is a clear demand for more choice and for people to explore new and innovative ways of meeting their own care needs.
“This change is about dignity, independence and control, and driving forward personal budgets puts these values into practice.”
Strategic director of adults and communities at Leicester City Council, Kim Curry, added: “Users of adult social care services and their carers are the experts in terms of knowing what combination of care they need, so these changes mean they’ll be in a stronger position to decide how to spend their budget on services which suit them best.”
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SPALDING: ROYCE ROAD TIDIES UP
02 March 2010
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Residents on the Royce Road estate in Spalding joined the South Holland Junior Wardens by getting their hands dirty last week, taking part in the ‘Big Tidy Up’ part of the nationwide campaign Keep Britain Tidy.
The volunteers joined partnering agencies L&H Homes, Lincolnshire Police, South Holland District Council, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, Groundwork Lincolnshire and LCC Child Services and picked up a total of 47 bags of rubbish - significantly improving the appearance of the estate.
Leanne Harding, Community Involvement Officer, said, “The day waa great success, I was amazed at how quickly we collected the bags of rubbish – the residents and the South Holland Junior Wardens worked really well together.”
Ryan Ellis, Spalding Police Community Support Officer, said: “The aim of taking part in the big tidy was to involve the residents and the wardens, to improve the neighbourhood and also to reinforce the community spirit in the area. I defiantly feel this was achieved on the day. I hope now this will discourage people from dropping rubbish in the future”.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
02 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
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.
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.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
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.
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!
03 March 2010
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DERWENT LIVING APPOINTS HEALTH & SAFETY MANAGER
03 March 2010
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David Bowes
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Derwent Living has appointed a new health & safety manager to proactively manage its strategies and activities relating to health & safety.
David Bowes comes to the newly created role with over six years experience in health & safety and has previously worked for Nottingham County Council, South Notts College and Balfour Kilpatrick Ltd.
David will oversee the housing provider’s entire range of health and safety issues, including ensuring compliance with legislation, innovation in practices, management of staff training and will undertake regular audits. He will also take a leading role in ensuring that the company meets and strives to exceed its health & safety obligations.
David said of his appointment: “I am really looking forward to working at Derwent Living. I’ve heard some really good things about the company and look forward to the challenges that this new role will bring.”
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CROSS KEYS HOMES OFFERS A LIFELINE
03 March 2010
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Cross Keys Homes is backing a report by the Audit Commission calling for local councils to consider alternative ways of caring for the city’s population as it grows older.
The report, Under Pressure, says most councils do not know enough about the costs of their ageing populations. It also suggests they may miss the savings that could be made from preventative services and better work with other organisations.
Cross Keys Homes is committed to helping people to live independently in their homes. The housing association already helps more than 2,500 people to do this through its Lifeline alarm service.
Cross Keys Homes’ director of operations, Claire Higgins, said: “Older people want to retain their independence as long as they can and now that they are living longer, they very often want to stay in their own homes and to feel safe and able to summon help if they need it. Our Lifeline service has a real capacity to help many more people do just that.”
Cross Keys Homes’ Lifeline service can assist in a variety of ways from supplying a standard lifeline pendant for use in an emergency through to providing a bit more support such as; if they have recently have been discharged from hospital, are at risk of falling in their home, suffering from mild confusion and prone to leaving their bath running or even wandering from their home and becoming disorientated.
Claire added: “Such services can go a long way to help ease the funding pressures experienced by the NHS and the city council. Acute care in hospital for example if someone falls and breaks their hip is very expensive and residential care homes cost individuals and the council large amounts of money. Preventative and lower level support services such as those we can offer are a perfect way of reducing the stresses on the health and social care services while enabling people to remain independent and safe in their own homes which is undoubtedly where the vast majority of people want to stay for as long as they can.”
Cross Keys Homes’ Lifeline service is offered as part of the standard package in all our sheltered housing schemes and is also an alternative to moving into sheltered or warden controlled accommodation. However a majority of the Lifeline units are installed in private homes providing an alternative to sheltered or warden controlled schemes. Lifeline provides a 24-hour emergency response at the touch of a button.
If you know anybody who may benefit from a Lifeline, then Cross Keys Homes can help them to live independently from as little as £4.20 a week.
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ST MUNGO’S INTEGRATED AND PERSONALISED SERVICE HIGHLIGHTED AS GOOD PRACTICE
03 March 2010
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Charles Fraser
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Neighbourhood Link, an innovative St Mungo’s scheme in Islington, developed in partnership with the Revolving Doors Agency, has been highlighted in a Government report for its good practice, and as just the kind of service that needs new sustainable ways of funding.
The Role of Third Sector Innovation, published by the Cabinet Office, features the Neighbourhood Link scheme as a prime example of a successful integrated and personalised, early intervention service. The scheme helps people with multiple and complex needs who are at risk of getting into serious trouble with the law and becoming homeless.
The report said it is the kind of scheme that needs more stable ways of funding: “Many of these organisations often find it difficult to secure stable statutory funding for their services as the benefits of investment are often felt in the longer term and across multiple statutory funding streams. ... Government and the third sector should consider new and innovative approaches to funding personalised early interventions.”
St Mungo’s Chief Executive, Charles Fraser, said: “This is welcome recognition of the vital work that St Mungo’s does in tailoring its services to the specific needs of the individual. The people who are referred to our Neighbourhood Link Scheme often present with multiple and very complex needs – anti-social behaviour, drug and alcohol use and mental health issues.
“If we can prevent people from becoming homeless, that’s one less crisis for them to deal with. It’s also better for the local community and ultimately the taxpayer. It is vital that holistic services like this are sustainably commissioned and replicated if we are to support vulnerable people more effectively.”
Catherine Hennessy, Director of Developments and Partnership at Revolving Doors Agency, said: “We are pleased with this recognition that third sector partnership working with community policing can provide personalised early intervention for adults with multiple problems. It thereby ensures that they receive adequate support and are diverted from increasing involvement with the criminal justice system.”
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THREE VALLEYS HOUSING SERVICES ON PERFORMANCE HIGH
03 March 2010
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Three Valleys Housing are consistently achieving over a 90% success rate on a number of performance indicators relating to the delivery of their services.
Topping the list are emergency and urgent repairs, gas service appointments and the number of properties with a valid gas safety certificate, all which scored 100% in the last quarter.
Residents can also expect to have their telephone calls answered quickly; the organisation currently answers over 91% of its calls within 10 seconds. Residents’ repair appointments are also being kept by the association, with 99% being completed on time in December 2009.
On the performance of the Repairs Team, Dean Smart, Assistant Repairs Manager, said: “Our team has shown improvement year on year, and we’re really pleased to be able to be consistently outperforming our targets, it’s testament to the staff and the processes we have put in place.”
Dean continued: “Our Gas Servicing Team is also one of the strongest around; ensuring all of our properties are safe is a top priority for us. We pride ourselves on servicing gas appliances efficiently and quickly, and offer appointments both inside and outside of office hours.”
The organisation will also complete its Decent Homes programme ahead of schedule, with the organisation spending nearly £6 million up to the end of last year and another £2.8 million committed for works in 2010.
Feedback from residents who have had the work done has been positive, and the association has recruited a team of Resident Inspectors to ensure work is carried out to the highest quality.
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BRAVE GEORGE SAVES ELDERLY RESIDENT FROM FIRE IN SHELTERED HOUSING
03 March 2010
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A Stevenage Homes repairs operative acted quickly to rescue an elderly resident from a fire, when he saw smoke coming from the window of a bungalow in a sheltered housing scheme.
On Thursday 25 February, George Fullerton, repairs operative for Stevenage Homes, was visiting Silkin Court sheltered housing scheme to fit a new gate.
He noticed smoke coming from the kitchen window of one of the bungalows.
Thinking quickly he alerted the resident, Morris Levy (80) and led him from the property to safety, turned off the electricity to the smoking cooker and closed the kitchen door to prevent fire and smoke from spreading.
Speaking about the incident George said, "I feel slightly embarrassed to be labelled as brave, because I heard the alarm and noticed the smoke, being first on the scene just meant that I did what any other person would have done.
I just hope that the gentleman I now know as Mr Levy is recovering ok, it must have been a great shock to him finding himself in that situation."
Stevenage Fire Station Commander, Ian Parkhouse, said: “I am pleased that George had the knowledge to take the appropriate action in the event of a fire, this has helped to prevent a small fire from turning into a more serious one.
“If you discover a fire, it is very important to not put your own life in danger; get out, stay out, and dial 999. A working smoke alarm and a planned escape route could help save your life - make your escape plan and test your smoke alarm today.”
Although the kitchen was filled with smoke, the fire did not do a lot of damage and Mr Levy is now recovering at home having received first aid at the scene.
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WELLINGBOROUGH CHILDREN HAVE A ‘BLAST’ DURING HALF TERM
03 March 2010
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More than 70 children and adults had a ‘blast’ during half term when they turned their hands to fun and creative activities.
Mums and daughters enjoyed a pampering session with a beauty therapist, whilst boys built rockets, at activity sessions held by housing association Wellingborough Homes’ throughout the February half term week.
Picture: (Left-Right) Charlotte Hancox and Samantha Hancox were some of the people taking part in Wellingborough Homes’ half term activities, including a manicure session.
Wellingborough Homes runs activities for children, parents, grandparents and carers during school holidays at its Tenant Resource Centre at Thompson Court, off Sheep Street.
Beauty therapist Annita Wood showed mums and daughters how to look after their nails by demonstrating how to do a manicure.
Wellingborough Homes’ community involvement coordinator Kirsty Cheung spent time with boys making colourful rockets.
“We have been really pleased with how many people have been attending the sessions and we will be holding more in future. They are an excellent way for tenants to try different things and increase their skills,” said Kirsty.
Other activities during the week included mosaic classes and arts and craft sessions. In total 73 children and adults attended.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
03 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
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.
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.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
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.
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!
04 March 2010
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NEW HOMES COMMENCE IN NEWARK AND SHERWOOD
04 March 2010
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Chairman of Newark and Sherwood Homes, Ginette Hughes and the Chairman of Newark and Sherwood District Council, Cllr Bryan Richardson cut the first sod as construction begins for the first new council homes to be built in the district for 33 years.
Newark and Sherwood District Council in partnership with Newark and Sherwood Homes successfully bid for more than £2.2 million pounds of funding to the Homes and Communities Agency to provide 52 New Build Dwellings as part of the local authority New Build Programme.
This grant represents 14% of successful funding awarded to the East Midlands Region and will provide a mixture of houses, apartments and bungalows in the district.
The first Phase of the construction is commencing with properties being built at Bleasby, Boughton, Clipstone and Balderton.
These are to be constructed by Carter Homes of Boston, Lincolnshire to high levels of energy efficiency achieving Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4.
The properties have been designed by Cullen, Carter and Hill Architects, BSP Consulting Structural Engineers with EC Harris being the Employers Agent.
Chairman of the Board for Newark and Sherwood Homes, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to work with the council and formulate the bids. The bid round was heavily over-subscribed so our expertise to formulate the high calibre bid submissions have clearly been vital.”
Newark and Sherwood District Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Homes, Cllr David Payne, said: “As a rural community, housing affordability has been particularly hard hit in Newark and Sherwood. I hope these new homes provide energy efficient, secure and comfortable accommodation for families in our district with a housing need.”
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CROSS KEYS ANNOUNCES RENT CHARGES FOR 2010
04 March 2010
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Cross Keys Homes has announced that rents for nearly 50 per cent of its 10,000 tenants will go down this year while the remainder will receive an average increase of just 93 pence to £71.47 a week.
The decrease in rent for 4,365 tenants is due to September 2009’s negative level of inflation of -1.4 per cent which is the figure all housing associations use to determine their increase percentage.
For the 4,879 residents who will receive an increase this is due to Cross Keys Homes moving certain properties towards the government’s target rent which must be met by 2012 to ensure that similar social housing in the same location is charged at a similar rent no matter who the landlord is.
Cross Keys Homes’ chief executive, Mick Leggett, said: “We know that things are tough for many people at the moment and I hope that tenants will feel that they are getting a really good value for money rent.”
“Tenants can rest assure that the rent reductions will not affect the level of service they receive as we have factored in efficiency savings that will not impact on our frontline services. Cross Keys Homes will complete the £108 million investment programme to bring all homes up to a high quality modern standard.”
All tenants will receive a personal letter detailing their new rent charges which will also cover any increases in service charges some tenants pay for living in sheltered or flat accommodation.
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COMMUNITY FUNDING UP FOR GRABS FROM ACIS
04 March 2010
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Lincolnshire-based housing association Acis Group will once again be looking to give a helping hand to local communities through the Acis Community Fund scheme.
As part of their ten year anniversary in 2009 Acis, who own and manage over 5,000 homes across Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire, launched new changes to their community funding.
Acis gave charitable organisations and groups the opportunity to apply for a small grant for use in the local community for projects or initiatives.
Over the last 12 months the Acis Community Fund has supported seven projects across their regions.
These include Working Rite, Woodthorpe Festival, Woodthorpe School Fete, Woodthorpe Development Trust and Maskk (Manor After School Kids Klub) in Sheffield and Park Springs Community Centre/Learning Centre and West Lindsey Women’s Aid in Gainsborough.
Rachel Wood, Community Cohesion Manager for Acis who heads up the project, said: “The Acis Community Fund provides charitable organisations and groups with a great opportunity to apply for funding which can often be very difficult to obtain, especially in the current economic climate. It is also a fantastic way for us to get involved with the local community.”
The Community Fund also ties in to the Acis Group corporate strategy. Rachel added: “During 2009 we launched our new corporate strategy aimed at ‘putting people first’ and ‘creating better places to live’. As part of our ongoing commitment to this we have supported a number of community projects and initiatives. We also made changes to our Community Fund to ensure all good causes in our areas of operation had the chance to apply for a small grant.”
The Acis Community Fund will open for a new round of applications on 1 April 2010.
Application forms and guidance notes will be available on the Acis website:
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HOCKLEY RESIDENTS CELEBRATE REFURBISHMENTS WITH TEA BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT
04 March 2010
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Residents of Spa Court, a sheltered housing scheme in Hockley, Essex received a special royal visit to celebrate the opening of their newly refurbished home last week.
Owned and managed by housing provider Rochford Housing Association, part of Sanctuary Group, the new-look scheme was officially opened by Lord Petre, Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Essex, following extensive remodelling and improvement works.
The works included brand new kitchens, bathrooms and communal areas for residents, and form part of Rochford Housing’s £27 million investment programme to modernise 1,750 homes over a five year period.
Lord Petre unveiled a plaque to commemorate the opening, together with the Association’s Managing Director, Emma Keegan and Chairman, Maureen Vince, before taking afternoon tea with residents and other guests including Cllr Elizabeth Hart, Chairman of Essex County Council and Cllr Tony Humphries, Chairman of Rochford District Council.
Lord Petre, said: "I was very impressed by the spaciousness and comfort of the accommodation at the refurbished Spa Court. The cheerful faces of the residents who had gathered for the Opening Ceremony bore witness to how happy they were in their new home.
“What a pity I do not live in the Rochford District else I could put myself on the waiting list."
Resident Mrs Joy Lawrence also commented: “We’ve had such a lovely afternoon. It was wonderful to meet Lord Petre and show him just how proud we are of our new homes.”
Residents of sister scheme Britton Court, Rayleigh, also celebrated the opening of their refurbished scheme in February, with an afternoon tea attended by guests including Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh.
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DERBYSHIRE YOUNGSTERS SCALE THE PEAKS FOR CHARITY
04 March 2010
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Young people scaled three of Britain’s highest peaks to raise more than £1,000 for charity.
A group of 22 youngsters, aged between 10 and 16, completed the Three Peaks Challenge as part of the Dreamscheme, organised by Amber Valley Housing, Guinness Northern Counties and Derbyshire County Council.
At the end of February they presented cheques to their two chosen charities - Macmillan Cancer Support and the Derby City Hospital Special Care Baby Unit.
The Dreamscheme is a regular school holiday activity programme, which offers young people the chance to get involved in community activities in return for a reward - such as a day out.
Last summer the young people decided they wanted to do something different and so the organisers decided to put on something extra special in the form of the Three Peaks Challenge.
The event was funded by Amber Valley Housing, Guinness Northern Counties, Derbyshire County Council Youth Opportunities Fund, E.on, North Star and Derbyshire Community Foundation.
Sarah Whattam, community development manager at Amber Valley Housing, said: “The young people took part in this event with great enthusiasm and worked really hard to complete what is a really difficult physical challenge.
“It’s great that they wanted to get out and make the most of their summer holidays and we’re all really proud of what they achieved. Their fundraising will make a difference to the work of these charities and the presentation was a good opportunity for them to meet the representatives and find out more about their work.”
The three peaks challenge involves climbing the highest peak in England – Scafell Pike, which stands at 978m above sea level – the highest in Wales – Snowdon (1085m) and the highest in Scotland, Ben Nevis (1344m).
Among those to have taken part were Michaela Barrett and Craig White. Michaela said: “I thought it was very good and I would love to do it again.”
Craig said: “It was an absolutely shattering experience, but I would love to do it again. I am really proud to have achieved this challenge and I learnt how to work as a group.”
Rob Lawrenson, Derbyshire fundraising manager for Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Cancer can be seen as an older person’s illness but it does affect younger people and it is great that these young people are already thinking about it and raising money to support those affected.
“Our Macmillan healthcare professionals help people at every stage of their cancer journey - offering vital support right through from diagnosis and during their treatment. We are very grateful for donations to help fund this work.”
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
04 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
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.
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.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a 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!
05 March 2010
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DERBY: 220 HOMES PLANNED FOR MACKWORTH COLLEGE
05 March 2010
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An outline planning application has been submitted to Derby City Council for 220 homes, health, leisure and community facilities and living accommodation for the elderly to be built at Mackworth College’s its 20-acre site in Prince Charles Avenue.
And the site is being marketed as a development opportunity by commercial property agent Rigby and Co.
The new application comes four years after Derby City Council granted the college outline planning permission for homes only to be built on the site. But a change of estates policy and the economic slump have altered the college's approach to the sale of the site.
Nigel Gell, college vice-principal, said: "It is still intended that building would only be on the existing areas where buildings are now because the rest is green wedge.
"We may sell the land off as a whole or in parcels.
"It would be good to get a range of facilities on the site.
"What we don't want to do is take the sports resources away from the community and we would like to think that these would be used by the community in the long-term.
"We are in talks with many people to see what is best for everyone."
The college hopes the money from the sale will help to fund improvements at its campus at Broomfield Hall, Morley, and the newly-acquired South East Derbyshire College, in Ilkeston and Heanor.
It announced last week it would sell off one of its two farms – Lime Farm – which are part of the Broomfield estate.
A new £48m development at the Roundhouse site, in Pride Park, was opened last September, largely funded by the sale of the former college site in Wilmorton.
College principal David Croll, said: "The majority of students and staff previously at the Mackworth site have now moved to the Roundhouse and the rest of the curriculum and administrative areas still on the site will be moving to other college locations from Easter.
"We have been an important part of the local community in Mackworth for many years and will ensure that this site is kept secure and maintained in the period before it is sold.
"We are confident that a site of this size will attract significant interest."
The original outline planning application was approved with just two objections from residents, although concerns were raised about access roads.
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PLANS FOR 100 NEW NORTHAMPTON HOMES SET TO BE APPROVED
05 March 2010
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Plans to build more than 100 new homes on a piece of land next to one of Northampton's busiest roundabouts look set to be approved.
Housing association officers have been working on a scheme to build a mixture of 111 flats and houses on land at the end of Booth Rise in Boothville for the past six years.
At a meeting next week, members of the West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (WNDC) are expected to approve the controversial plans.
This comes despite concerns raised by Northampton Borough Council's planning committee, individual councillors and nearby residents about potential noise, pollution and traffic problems caused by the development, and about the loss of green space.
A report prepared for the meeting reads: "The proposed application would make an important contribution to the delivery of much-needed affordable housing where there is an identified significant shortfall.
"The associated impacts the development would create can be adequately mitigated against through the use of appropriate planning conditions and Section 106 agreement and therefore the development would not have any significant visual, transport, flood risk or other impact that would warrant the refusal of planning permission."
Although the plans are recommended for approval at the WNDC's meeting on Tuesday, the granting of the permission is expected to be delegated to officers subject to the signing of a Section 106 agreement.
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LOVELL WORKS ON £1.42M CHELMSFORD AFFORDABLE HOMES SCHEME
05 March 2010
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Affordable housing specialist Lovell is building 13 affordable homes in Chelmsford, Essex, for housing provider Sanctuary Group.
The £1.42 million scheme will see the demolition of a former sheltered housing complex, Latimer House, which will be replaced with three four-bedroom houses and ten two-bedroom flats for affordable rent.
The scheme is the first to be built by Lovell under its national framework agreement with Sanctuary.
The new housing will be built to Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, meaning they will be constructed to the latest energy efficiency guidelines.
The properties will achieve a 25 per cent improvement in energy efficiency against current building regulations.
Each home will incorporate all the usual modern amenities, including fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms, as well as dedicated bicycle storage, landscaped gardens and resident parking. The development is due to be completed by the end of this year.
Sanctuary Group’s regional development manager, Jonathan Mullins, said: “With sustainability and affordability at the top of our agenda, we are working together to build a desirable and energy efficient development that will make a real difference to local residents for years to come.”
Lovell regional director Steve Coombs said: “We are delighted to be working with Sanctuary to deliver these high-quality new affordable homes for Chelmsford.”
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NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE HOMES TO KEEP RENT INCREASES LOW
05 March 2010
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North Hertfordshire Homes has announced low or minus rent increases for the coming year.
Annual increases are calculated using a set government formula based on the previous September Retail Price Index inflation rate.
Last year this was below zero due to the credit crunch.
This years rent rise is set to result in an average increase of 1.3% compared to last years average rise of 5.5%, with some households actually receiving a rent reduction.
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ALDWYCK IN LINE FOR HOUSING HEROES AWARD
05 March 2010
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Aldwyck Housing Group’s Community Involvement team has been shortlisted for the 2010 Housing Heroes Awards.
The awards, organised by the Chartered Institute of Housing, are in their second year and are intended to shine a spotlight on the people and teams that are doing great work in the social/affordable housing sector.
The Community Involvement Team consisting of Emma Wallington, Sue Crossey, Geoff Collins and Rhys Evans, is now one of six left in the running for the Tenant Empowerment Team of the Year 2010.
Aldwyck Chief Executive Harj Singh, paid tribute to the work of the team saying: “Over the past two years we have made great strides in involving our customers. The Customer Scrutiny Panel, the new youth panels and the focus groups that we run are increasing opportunities for residents to influence and shape our services. I have no doubt that the input we gain from our customers is vital in ensuring we provide the excellent services for all.”
Howard Farrand, President of the CIH, said he was amazed by the fantastic people working in the housing sector: “In my experience it is the extraordinary people that do fantastic work for our customers that make the real difference. So I want to congratulate every finalist for getting this far in these awards. It was extremely tightly contested, and I look forward to helping to unveil the eventual winners in May.”
The winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony at London’s Hilton Hotel on 14 May hosted by TV presenter, Antarctic explorer and Atlantic rower Ben Fogle. The awards are sponsored by Campbell Tickell, EMA, Asset Skills, Synergy Group and The Hire Standard.
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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
05 March 2010
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Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters:
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JOBS
West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18.
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.
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.
Keelman Homes is seeking Two Ordinary Trustees to join its Board. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 5.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Housing Manager. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Corporate & Development Administration Assistant. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Almond Housing Association is seeking a Debt Recovery Officer [Part Time]. For more information, go to: www.scottishhousingnews.com. Closing date: March 12.
Melville Housing Association is seeking a 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. |
Relevant Links:
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NEWS 
