JOB OF THE WEEK: POLICY/SERVICE IMPROVEMENT MANAGER
08 March 2010

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SENTINEL COMPLETES RECORD NUMBER OF NEW HOMES
08 March 2010

Harness House Sentinel Housing Association has handed over the keys to more affordable homes in the recession than ever before. In the year to the end of January, the not-for-profit landlord helped more than 1,000 people come off waiting lists by completing 533 new homes across north Hampshire. Additionally, the £280m government-backed housing programme helped keep the local construction industry in business throughout the recession, and saw Sentinel step up its ambitious programme to make homes more environmentally friendly. Sentinel executive director, Bill Flood said: “We’ve been working hard with all our partners to keep construction moving during a very bleak period. We’re delighted that our record achievement has given a chance to so many people to move into a new home. The challenge for us is to continue this level of development against a backdrop of public spending cuts due to take effect next year.” Sentinel completed 321 homes in Basingstoke, 136 in Rushmoor, and 76 in Test Valley, securing £36m of government investment in the area in the process. The largest projects in Basingstoke included 98 new homes at Limes Park, Rooksdown, and 71 at Marnel Park in Popley. A further 106 homes at Bishops Green, near Newbury and Longfellow Parade, Popley, have also been finished as part of Sentinel’s ongoing regeneration programme. In Andover, residents have moved into 76 affordable homes on the Augusta Park town extension at East Anton, with a further 170 due in the next two years. Many have been fitted with air-source heat pumps – a green technology that works like a fridge in reverse – to reduce energy bills by providing cheaper background heating. Elsewhere, in Rushmoor, Sentinel’s 73 apartments at Crimea Road, Aldershot marked a bumper year, alongside 23 new homes at Amber Gardens, Farnborough, and the refurbishment of 40 ex-military family homes at Dukes Park, Aldershot. Mr Flood added: “Although we’ve got another 700 homes on site or about to start, this is not just a numbers game. Projects like the regeneration of Popley Islands in Basingstoke and the redevelopment of modern apartments for older people in Fleet, are as much about what happens when the builders have gone, and that’s why we’re still very much focused on doing the basics brilliantly, and going the extra mile for customers.”

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NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES LAUNCHED IN ASHFORD
08 March 2010

Moat and Affinity Sutton will unveil a new show home to launch 20 new affordable homes at Latitude Walk in Ashford, Kent. The new homes are available to first time buyers and will be completed by Spring 2010. There are 12 one-bedroom apartments, five two-bedroom apartments and maisonettes and three three-bedroom maisonettes available on a part buy / part rent basis. The government funded HomeBuy initiative helps first time buyers get a foot on the property ladder by purchasing a share of a new home – usually between 25 and 75 per cent. At a later stage, further shares can be purchased until it is owned outright. New homes at Latitude Walk benefit from their proximity to Ashford town centre and Ashford International railway station. In addition, each home, built by Osborne Homes This makes them ideal for any first time buyer currently priced out of the housing market.

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HYDEMARTLET SETS SUMMER DATE FOR CHAPEL LAUNCH
08 March 2010

A new Baptist Chapel and community facility is set to open its doors in the summer. Ebenezer Chapel, run by Brighton Reform Baptist Church, is being redeveloped to provide modern facilities for its congregation and the people of Brighton. The works were carried out for HydeMartlet by Denne. The redevelopment of the old 1960s building will also include 49 other homes, three of which will have full disabled access such as specially designed kitchens and bathrooms. The building will have a sedum living roof. The new chapel will have commercial kitchens, toilet and shower facilities and a large community room, as well as a full immersion baptismal pool. Architects, Molyneux have also included the provision of photo-voltaic cells on the roof as a renewable energy source, an underground car park for eight cars, cycle parking and rubbish stores. Until its move to West Hill Road a few years ago, the church held services in the old Ebenezer Chapel on the site of the new development, which was a crumbling concrete building. It was in such a state of disrepair that renovation was not viable. It was then that the Trustees of the church joined forces with Hyde to develop the current scheme. Tom Shaw, HydeMartlet development project manager, said: “The Ebenezer apartments and church re-development have transformed what was previously a run-down, derelict site to provide a valuable community resource along with new affordable housing. “The design for the scheme was developed following extensive consultation with local people and financial contributions have been made from the development to pay for improvements to local schools, parks and sustainable transport. “Hyde is pleased to be working in partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council to deliver the project with funding provided by the Homes and Communities Agency.” The building has been designed to meet the EcoHomes ‘very good’ standard to assure very high efficiency in the use of energy, water and materials. This will benefit residents through savings on fuel bills, whilst helping to address the wider impact of development on the environment. The new homes will be available to rent through Brighton & Hove City Council’s choice based letting scheme or to buy as shared ownership through The Hyde Group’s affordable home ownership subsidiary, INplace, helping first time buyers to get on to the housing ladder. Pastor Tony Bickley is looking forward to the opening of the chapel, located on Richmond Parade, which he says will transform the way his church operates. He added: “The new building will bring modern facilities which meet health and safety standards, meaning that we can offer more to the local community.”

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FUNDING FOR MEDWAY FAMILY INTERVENTION PROJECT
08 March 2010

Partnership working has proved successful as Medway Council and mhs homes have obtained grant funding of 125,000 towards Medway’s Family Intervention Projects team The local authority and the landlord have worked together for the benefit of Medway’s residents for many years. Last December, the partnership put together a joint bid to the Department for Children, Schools and Families for Housing Challenge Fund Grant for Family Intervention Projects Medway Council already runs a successful FIP project but wanted to increase the capacity of the department. mhs homes agreed to a £50,000 contribution by providing fully serviced office space at its head office in Chatham. The offices will house a team of 12 staff who will provide one to one support for families with multiple disadvantages. 25 per cent of these families live in Social housing accommodation FIP teams work with other partner agencies including Health, Education, Police and Fire services, Social Services, Youth Offending Teams and social housing providers to provide joined up support which in turn reduces ASB improves parenting and attendance at schools and helps provide whole family change. Extra staff are currently being recruited by Medway Council and the FIP Team will start providing its increased services from April 6, 2010.

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SWAYTHLING JUINIOR PCSO SCHEME PREMIERES IN SOUTHAMPTON
08 March 2010

Swaythling Housing Society has produced a DVD to celebrate the exponential success of the Junior Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) scheme. The DVD was officially launched at a special screening at the Harbour Lights cinema in Southampton, to a select audience of Junior PSCOs and other dignitaries. The DVD illustrates the positive impact this ground-breaking programme has made in local communities throughout Hampshire since its launch two years ago, including the practical implications that Junior PCSOs have on the neighbourhood and how participants learn from the experience. It also captures the fun aspects of being involved, playing games and experiencing other recreational activities. Swaythling hopes it will encourage other housing associations across the UK to consider establishing their own Junior PCSO schemes. Ian Haworth, assistant director of Swaythling Housing Society, part of Radian, said, “It is evident that if we work together, we’ll achieve a much better outcome. “That’s why working with Hampshire Constabulary and other RSLs is much more effective and we encourage other housing associations to get involved. “These children are potentially our residents of the future, so it’s important to engage with them now and make them part of the community.” The inaugural Junior PCSO Scheme was set up by Hampshire Constabulary in 2007, in the Northam and Chapel areas of Southampton, in response to feedback from local residents about issues such as anti-social behaviour and low level crime. Swaythling supported the scheme with funding and the securing of local resident involvement. In Northam, statistics demonstrate a significant decrease in reports of anti-social behaviour since the scheme began in 2007, with a record 470 incidences in 2006/07 to just 270 in 2008/09.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
08 March 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS 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. 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. 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: POLICY/SERVICE IMPROVEMENT MANAGER
09 March 2010

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SPOTLIGHT
09 March 2010

RADIAN REWARDED FOR RETROFIT SUCCESS
09 March 2010

Radian has been recognised for its contribution to saving energy by winning a national award that celebrates the UK’s leading organisations in sustainability, business and the built environment. The ‘Award for Energy’ was handed to Radian for its pioneering project in Highfield Road, in Petersfield, during a ceremony at Chelsea Football Club on Tuesday 2 March. Picture: Sandra Theckston, director of Drum Housing Association and Jeremy Dickin, Radian Technical Services, receive the award from Angus Robertson, CEO, PowerPerfector. The project has seen the full ecological refurbishment of a group of 20 homes constructed from reinforced pre-cast concrete, classified as ‘hard to treat’ in terms of energy efficiency improvements, as they are of non-traditional construction and do not have cavity walls. The finished homes have been refurbished to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 85 per cent, improving the Energy Performance Certificate band from E to B, and from a standard Assessment Process rating of 43 to 85. Radian, which was also shortlisted for awards for its work in water efficiency and regeneration of land, is delighted to be leading the way both in defining and disseminating the retrofit process necessary to achieve this regionally and nationally. Lindsay Todd, chief executive of Radian, said: “Radian is committed to championing lower energy, sustainable homes. Effective retrofit brings economic and comfort benefits to our customers as well as confronting the challenge we all face of achieving carbon reduction targets. “We are committed to showcasing this work, and hope that through the Highfield Road scheme, which won the Award for Energy, and our other two projects short-listed for awards, we can encourage innovation in our sector, and contribute to the knowledge of what works.” Radian is a sector leader with an enviable track record in sustainable projects and has pro-actively piloted many environmental innovations over recent years. Its approach and specific expertise in retrofit has helped to secure European Regional Development Funding from SEEDA to undertake an 18-month study to build capacity for low carbon retrofit in the South East region. Paul Ciniglio, Radian sustainability manager, added: “We are delighted to receive another highly respected accolade for the pioneering work which Radian is carrying out to reduce the carbon footprint of our housing stock, whilst simultaneously building and regenerating sustainable communities. “This award has been achieved by applying our technical know-how whilst working closely with residents in the local community to meet their wishes.” Of the award-winning Highfield Road project, the judging panel said: “This all-round package of measures demonstrates deliverability and promises real potential for replication – one to copy.”

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OPEN DAY TO RAISE AWARENESS OF RESIDENTIAL CARE
09 March 2010

Residents of a Kingfisher HVHS Housing Association sheltered housing scheme are inviting visitors to attend an open day on Wednesday 17 March between 10.00am and 1.00pm. The open day at Roxburgh House in Locks Heath, Southampton has been organised by the scheme manager to raise awareness of residential care in the community. Visitors will have the opportunity to view the accommodation at Roxburgh House, which consists of 31, one-bedroom flats and studio flats. Prospective residents will be able to discuss their individual needs with staff on the day and chat to residents over a cup of tea and biscuits. To apply for a place at the scheme, applicants need to be registered on Fareham Borough Council’s housing waiting list. Keith Fletcher, scheme manager at Roxburgh House, said: “Residents are very active here and there is always some form of activity taking place, whether it be a game of “Hoi” or musical entertainment. It is a friendly environment in which to live.” Roxburgh House is one of 22 sheltered housing schemes for the over 55’s owned and managed by Kingfisher HVHS. With 31 units of accommodation it offers residents the comfort of their own home with the benefit of a scheme manager who is able to offer support.

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‘SUPPORTING EACH OTHER’ AT L&Q CONFERENCE
09 March 2010

Representatives from more than 50 specialist support agencies joined L&Q on Friday at a conference aimed at strengthening our relationships and exploring ways of helping each other through the complex and changing support environment. The “Working together, supporting each other” conference at the Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel in central London was organised by L&Q’s Agency Contracts and Quality Team. Representatives from the National Housing Federation and the Department of Communities and Local Government were also present, outlining the challenges ahead in the support environment. There were also workshops on resident involvement, personalisation, procurement, housing law, and how L&Q and the agencies can work more closely to tackle future challenges. Sonia Bernard, assistant director – communities, partnerships and support at L&Q, said: “L&Q remains committed to its vulnerable residents. Our relationships with the specialist support providers are crucial. “The environment we are working in is going through a period of unprecedented political and economic upheaval so it is more important than ever that we work together and support each to ensure that our vulnerable residents receive all the care and help they need.” She added: “This conference was a fantastic opportunity for us all to get together and discuss some of the key issues affecting us and look at ways of tackling them together. “We had some great feedback from the people who came along and I’ve no doubt we will be able to work more effectively together as a result.”

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SOHA SCHEME SEES TURNAROUND IN YOUTH BEHAVIOUR
09 March 2010

A Soha Housing-led diversionary project has laid the foundation for a turnaround in their behaviour. The programme, designed to channel the energies of young people who were referred by Thames Valley Police and the Didcot TRAIN (detached youthwork) project, highlighted the benefits of changing their behaviour. Consisting of days of hard physical work alongside challenging teambuilding exercises, the project culminated in a celebration for the young people and their parents in Didcot. Gary Hibbins, an independent youth worker, said: “This project should be modelled elsewhere for its multi-agency approach. It’s enabled young people and key adults to work together towards a common goal.” Six teenagers – five boys and a girl – from South Oxfordshire were led on an US army-style boot-camp in Surrey and a couple of days of eco-volunteering at the Northmoor Trust. RWE Npower supported the scheme with the loan of the Didcot Power Station minibus, a driver and the fuel to get the young people to Surrey. The project was the brainchild of Jackie Silver and Jane Cox of Soha Housing, which funded the project alongside the South Oxfordshire District Council Community Safety Group. Ms Silver said: “The agencies which helped us deliver this project – Thames Valley Police, two of whose officers came along to support the project, the Didcot TRAIN project, and Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, were enthusiastic from the moment Soha mooted the idea. “Like us, they wanted to demonstrate to young people who had had difficulties with accepting authority, that being mainstream and working together would open up opportunities for them.” Paul Gander, of Didcot TRAIN, added: "The team work and willingness to try displayed by the young people on the bootcamp day, in the face of very physically tough challenges, was incredible and it was great to be involved in this multi-agency initiative." Far from being the end of the programme, the celebration, which took place at Soha’s Didcot offices, may well turn out to be the launch pad for a new project. The young people – with a couple of the youth workers they met on the Soha scheme – want to apply for grants to fund training around issues such as drugs and alcohol abuse. They are even investigating the possibility of a residential course to encourage their peers in teamwork the way they themselves were encouraged in the last month.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
09 March 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS 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. 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. 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: POLICY/SERVICE IMPROVEMENT MANAGER
10 March 2010

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JEPHSON STARTS WORK ON NEW HOMES IN MILTON KEYNES
10 March 2010

Construction work has started on a multi-million pound development that will boost the amount of affordable housing available in the heart of Milton Keynes. Jephson Homes Housing Association has secured a £3.2million grant from the Homes and Communities Agency towards the provision of affordable new homes at Walton Grange in Brickhill Street, Walton. Picture: Tim Cockerill (with spade) Committee Board Member Jephson Homes Housing Association, Mark Lancaster Milton Keynes North East MP, John Lewis Chief Executive of Milton Keynes Partnership and Russell Legg Managing Director of DeVirgo.The 10.5-acre site is currently being developed by DeVirgo and 53 properties will be handed over to Jephson for rent. Adrian Sinha, Jephson’s development and property asset manager for the region, said: “Milton Keynes has high levels of demand for more affordable rented family housing and this development will really help to address that need. We are delighted to be involved with this scheme and to see work getting under way.” Guests, including Milton Keynes North East MP Mark Lancaster, chief executive of Milton Keynes Partnership John Lewis, and representatives from the partner agencies involved in the project, were invited to the site to mark the start of work. The 53 new affordable homes being built for Jephson comprise 18 two-bedroom apartments, five two-bedroom houses, 25 three-bedroom houses and five four-bedroom houses. The housing association is providing much-needed housing in the area through a Section 106 Agreement and the properties are being completed in parcels of 10. They will be built in two phases with the final homes due to be completed during 2013. In total, the Walton Grange scheme comprises 174 high quality contemporary homes ranging from one and two-bed apartments plus three, four and five-bedroom houses. The first phase will be released for sale this spring with an occupation date expected towards the end of this year.

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FAREHAM RECEIVES FUNDING TO DEVELOP ECO-TOWN PLAN
10 March 2010

Two new areas have been added to the list of proposals for a "second wave" of eco-towns, the Government has announced. John Healey Housing and Planning Minister John Healey said Fareham Borough Council and East Devon District Council were interested in developing new settlements which meet standards set out for eco-towns. Ministers also unveiled an overhaul of planning policies to help ensure green measures such as electric car charging points and renewable energy schemes get the go-ahead in new developments. The schemes, for an initial 3,500 homes in Cranbrook, east of Exeter, and at least 7,000 homes north of Fareham, Hampshire, will each receive £200,000 to develop plans for green housing and infrastructure. They join nine local authorities already developing plans for a second wave of environmentally-friendly new settlements and sharing a £10 million pot to help them bring forward their proposals. A further £10 million was announced for councils to train up staff to have the skills and know-how to develop environmentally-friendly housing and energy sources in the areas. The update of planning regulations for climate change, coastal change and the natural environment will provide a "green planning rulebook" for councils to help them tackle climate change, the Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG) department said. Under the new planning policy for climate change, put out to consultation today, there could be requirements to reduce the need for people to travel from home to work and encourage the installation of electric car charging points. The proposals also include a focus on better public transport, improved walking and cycling links and making it quicker and easier to approve renewable energy schemes. The policy, coming a week after the Government launched a green homes strategy putting emphasis on the role of councils in improving energy efficiency, will allow town halls to use the planning system to establish community heating and energy sources. Proposals for planning guidance on the natural environment include provision of "green infrastructure" including allotments, parks and street trees. Mr Healey said: "I am also pleased to announce two new areas in the eco-town 'second wave'. “Councils are making great progress and already highlighting where they can apply tough green standards in new development. "This signals real and radical momentum to change and to re-think how we design our towns and homes for the future." The 11 areas now developing plans for eco-towns with Government support form the second round of the programme, which saw four first-wave sites given the go-ahead by ministers last summer.

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NEW DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY INVESTMENT AT SANCTUARY
10 March 2010

Sanctuary Group has appointed Kate Still to the position of director of community investment and involvement. Kate Still Reporting to Simon Clark, Sanctuary Group’s director – housing and communities, Ms Still 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, Ms Still 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 (RDAs) and central Government. Ms Still, 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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MOAT TO HOST MAIDSTONE HOMEBUY EVENT
10 March 2010

Moat, the government appointed HomeBuy Agent for Kent, is inviting first time buyers to a HomeBuy Direct event on Saturday 13 March. Staff from Moat will be on hand to explain the advantages of the government backed scheme and offer help and advice to homebuyers. Visitors to The Village Hotel in Maidstone will have the chance to talk to house builders about available new homes and there will be financial advisors present to advise first time buyers about their options. HomeBuy Direct is available in Essex, Kent and Sussex through Moat and participating house builders. It aims to make more new affordable homes available to eligible buyers priced out of the housing market. The scheme is offered at specific new build developments where a contract exists between the Homes and Communities Agency and the developer. Purchasers buy a minimum of 70 per cent of the market value of a property. Buyers are then offered an equity loan of up to 30 per cent of the purchase price; co funded by the government and the developer. Buyers will need to raise a mortgage to purchase their percentage of the property through this scheme and can also use any savings to contribute as a deposit towards their share.

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ISLAND HOSTEL RESIDENTS BECOME ECO-WARRIORS
10 March 2010

Young people living in hostels on the Isle of Wight have been awarded over £900 to enable them to become involved in healthy outdoor activities and improve their immediate environment. Staff and residents at Atkinson House young person’s hostel in Newport secured £500 funding from the Cultural Olympiad Fund, and South Wight Housing Association (SWHA) is matching this with a further £400 from its Environmental Fund. To kick-start the project in style, young people living in SWHA-supported hostels in Newport and Ryde met up at Atkinson House to build an arbour with a twist. Residents and staff worked together to create a willow dome in place of a garden shed, which was destroyed in a fire in December 2009. The funding has enabled Atkinson House, one of SWHA’s 15 supported schemes, to buy a small greenhouse. Community initiative, Growing Spaces, has also contributed to the project by providing raised beds to hostels in Newport and Ryde. Sue Mason, support team leader for SWHA, said: “Funding for Atkinson House’s project is enabling young people to grow their own fruit and vegetables, learn new skills and have fun. Staff and residents from Ryde Young Peoples hostels are also joining in the activities. There’s a real sense of achievement in working together, improving the garden and producing our own food. “The living willow dome is a positive gesture for the residents - helping them to look forward to the year ahead. The willow rods will root and grow, creating more shoots which will be woven into a dome structure to create a quiet arbour for the young people.” The Cultural Olympiad is a four-year cultural festival celebrating creativity, inspiring individuals and communities throughout the UK to have the opportunity to join in the ethos and values of the 2012 Olympic Games. The core values of the Cultural Olympiad games are welcoming the world; inspiring and involving young people; leaving a lasting and positive legacy.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
10 March 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. 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 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: POLICY/SERVICE IMPROVEMENT MANAGER
11 March 2010

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NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES FOR HINDHEAD
11 March 2010

A new development of homes built for affordable rent on the former Expedier House site in Hindhead have been officially opened by Mayor of Waverley, councillor Mrs Pat Frost. The seven new homes, owned and managed by First Wessex, are the result of a fantastic working partnership between First Wessex member Pavilion Housing Association, Waverley Borough Council and Bewley Homes. Funding for the development of the new homes was provided by the Homes and Communities Agency as part of the Government's National Affordable Housing programme. Renewable technologies have been embraced in the design of the new homes, which have been designed to achieve maximum energy efficiency and minimum energy consumption. As a result, the development has achieved a Code for Sustainable Homes level 3. The scheme also complies with Secured by Design standards. After the Mayor had cut the ribbon, one of the new residents, Karen Richardson kindly opened her home and invited the guests inside for a tour. Miss Richardson moved in with her partner and daughter just over a month ago and they are thrilled with their new home. She said: “My daughter and I have lived with my Mum for over 14 years, and we are all so excited to finally have somewhere to call our own. “The houses at Hatchlands Drive just don’t look like the traditional social housing everyone is used to seeing. They are absolutely beautiful and the attention to detail is terrific. “The house is lovely and warm and when we got up in the loft we soon saw why – the insulation is as thick as a duvet. It’s obvious it’s going to be an economical house to run, which is great news for us.”

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ECO QUARTER FUNDING FOR SHOREHAM HARBOUR
11 March 2010

Housing and Planning Minister John Healey has announced that the Shoreham Harbour Regeneration project is to receive up to £1.5 million to support an Eco Quarter. Shoreham Harbour The news is welcomed by the three councils, Adur District Council, Brighton & Hove City Council, West Sussex County Council and other partners Shoreham Port and the Environment Agency. The money will support the Adur Core Strategy, due for consultation later in 2010, by funding studies that will help provide evidence to ensure deliverability and develop green infrastructure and renewable energy. Working with Brighton and Hove City Council, and subject to a successful planning application, the funding could also help the development of ‘PortZed’, an innovative 67-apartment scheme. All electricity required for the apartments will be provided by small-scale wind turbines, situated between the apartment blocks including affordable housing together with commercial/retail and public space. The Eco Quarter could have about 5,000 new homes built to an exemplar standard of sustainability and an international showcase of eco design. Green technologies will be used to provide environmentally friendly ways to manage waste, conserve water and provide energy. The quarter could also provide 5,000 new jobs many of which could be ‘green collar’. Speaking on behalf of the partners, Shoreham Regeneration project chairman, Peter Latham, said: “This injection of cash will keep the project moving and allow us to complete the studies needed to provide a solid backbone for the Adur and Brighton and Hove core strategies, so local communities can start to see the benefits of this exciting venture.” The Shoreham Harbour Regeneration project was awarded growth point status in December 2008.

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IN TOUCH WINS BRIGHTON AND HOVE CONTRACT
11 March 2010

The Hyde Group’s care and support service arm, in touch, has won a new contract in which it will complete over 400 home safety and security audits and carry out more than 630 handyperson jobs over the coming financial year on behalf of Brighton and Hove City Council. Janet Geering, in touch’s service manager, said: “I’m delighted to be working in Brighton & Hove. This is an exciting opportunity to enable residents within the city to be able to stay living in their chosen homes with greater safety. “ In touch’s home safety and security audit and handyperson services, which will be known as ‘Homesafe’, will begin on April 1. Previously, the service to Brighton and Hove residents was only for older and/or disabled people, but it has now been extended to include single parent families with children under 18 years, and families with children under six years. Ms Geering said: “By doing comprehensive audits of the homes we will be able to identify improvements and installations that will make their homes safer, more secure and more suitable to their needs and circumstances. “We will also give householders practical advice and information on things like accident, and other hazard prevention; home security and energy efficiency.” The handyperson service involves carrying out a range of small-scale works to improve clients’ home environment and includes home safety and security measures. She added: “Overall, this contract extends in touch’s Home Improvement Agency and allied services in East Sussex and it complements the service we already provide to teenage parents in Brighton & Hove.”

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HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS UNITE FOR JOBS FAIR
11 March 2010

AmicusHorizon, London & Quadrant, Wandle & Croydon Churches Housing Association and Croydon BME Forum have joined forces to organise a Jobs+ Fair. The aim of the event was to offer residents support and opportunities to find employment or start a new business. The focus was on growing industries such as social enterprise and green businesses. The fair, held at the Fairfield Halls in Croydon saw over 200 local residents attend. There were a range of motivational speakers from a number of external organisations including, Claudine Reid, Director of PJ’s Community Services, Ray Barwick, Chief Executive of Croydon ARC and Murad Qureshi, member of the London Assembly. Steve Douglas, vice-chair of the AmicusHorizon board, hosted the day’s events and gave the opening address. Steve Walker, chief executive officer of AmicusHorizon,said: “It’s great to see housing associations working together and pooling resources to find solutions to worklessness and business enterprise.” Annette Blake, an AmicusHorizon resident, added: “It’s excellent that residents are able to attend events such as this, to help find out about job opportunities and starting businesses. I got a lot out of attending.”

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IVOR GOODSITE OFFERS SOME SOUND SAFETY ADVICE
11 March 2010

Ivor Goodsite has visited a school in Southampton to give the message to children – ‘Think Safe – Be Safe’. The visit was organised with staff at Fairisle Junior School in Southampton, together with Western Challenge Housing Association and contractors Signpost Services. Picture: Charlie Way (back left) and Mr Paull, teacher at Fairisle School (back right) with Ivor Goodsite and the pupils at Fairisle School. Charlie Way, electrical contracts manager for Signpost Services, advised children on several aspects of electrical safety including turning off lights and not overloading sockets. He said: “We wanted to teach children about electrical safety and Ivor Goodsite provided a fun way of achieving this. We hope that the children enjoyed our visit and also learnt that if they ‘Think Safe – They’ll be safe’.” The children were also able to see and hear the difference in smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and what to do if they heard the alarms. Ivor Goodsite was on-hand to answer any questions. Peter Howard, head teacher of Fairisle Junior School added: “This was a great opportunity to work with Signpost Services who is carrying out electrical works on several houses in our community to speak to children in a fun way about electrical safety.” Signpost Services is currently carrying out electrical rewires, testing and upgrades for Western Challenge Housing Association alongside the provision of responsive and planned maintenance repairs. Signpost Services is a winner in the Considerate Constructors Scheme, which is concerned about any area of construction activity that may have a direct or indirect impact on the image of the industry as a whole. The main areas of concern fall into three main categories: the environment, the workforce and the general public.

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
11 March 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. 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 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: POLICY/SERVICE IMPROVEMENT MANAGER
12 March 2010

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MINISTER STARTS WORK AT ROWNER REGENERATION PROJECT
12 March 2010

Jonathan Shaw MP, Regional Minister for the South East, and five young Rowner residents were guests of honour to witness the start of the Rowner Regeneration project. The £145 million Rowner Renewal project is set to transform the Precinct and surrounding areas of Rowner over the next seven years. Demolition of the first houses – number 6 and 7 Winchester Court began in front of around 40 specially invited guests all donning Rowner Renewal hard hats and high-viz vests. Hazel Warwick, spokesperson for the Rowner Renewal Partnership and Group development director of Portsmouth Housing Association, said: “We are delighted that the Minister for the South East could witness this historic occasion and see for himself the project in detail and our plans for the future.” Phase One of the project has now officially begun on the first 219 new homes. Up to 700 new homes will replace 500 properties and there is a re-provision of retail and community facilities, as well as the creation of local employment and training opportunities. Taylor Wimpey, the construction partner has also pledged to fund five new construction apprenticeships throughout the lifetime of the project. Mr Shaw said: "This is a momentous day for Rowner; the demolition heralds an exciting new beginning for the community. “I congratulate all those who have made this significant regeneration project possible – it is a fine example of the public and private sectors working in partnership with local residents, for the benefit of the community, to build a stronger future. "The Government is committed to investment in housing; we know having a stable, secure place to call home is one of the most important things for individuals and families. This project will deliver that, as well as jobs and training. It is a win-win situation." Before the event, the Minister also met people who have secured jobs in Rowner through the Government's Future Jobs Fund. The children, representing the future of Rowner, were winners in Rowner Renewal’s recent Site Safety Poster competition and were very proud to see their winning posters printed high on the new construction site hoardings.

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REVAMP FOR BRIGHTON & HOVE HIGH-RISES
12 March 2010

Residents in Brighton & Hove City Council tower blocks have reported lower heating bills after an impressive revamp was uncovered. Maria Caulfield Despite one of the longest periods of cold weather for decades, residents have reported lower heating bills after the council insulated two blocks in Kemptown as part of a £1.9 million modernisation programme. Modernisation work on 18-storey Wiltshire House and 16-storey Somerset Point has seen both become the first local authority blocks that are digital TV ready with one central aerial serving all residents. This removes the need for multiple unsightly aerials. At least 100 millimetres of eco-friendly Rockwool insulation has been installed to improve the heat retention of the blocks and that has been covered with waterproofing and self-coloured rendering. This also saves on maintenance costs. The refit also sees the blocks easily cater for when boilers are replaced with more efficient models as additional flue outlets have been built in to the blocks. Councillor Maria Caulfield, cabinet member for housing, said: “Not only do these tower blocks look great but they are future proofed so that all residents share one central digital TV aerial. “This ‘future-proofing’ focus is at the centre of our housing repairs and maintenance programme across the city and this will see costs fall for both tenants and the local authority.” A rolling programme of over-cladding and rendering of tower blocks is ongoing across the city with work on at least eight blocks due to start in the next two years.

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HARAH TO OFFER GUIDANCE ON RURAL HOUSING
12 March 2010

East Hampshire District Council has been awarded £15,000 worth of Government cash to produce design guidance for rural housing developments. The guidance will help ensure that new housing schemes are suitable for the villages and rural areas in which they are built. The bid was made by East Hampshire District Council on behalf of the Hampshire Alliance for Rural Affordable Housing (HARAH), which is a group set up to deliver quality affordable housing across rural Hampshire. Since 2005, the HARAH partnership has completed 122 homes in the rural villages of Hampshire. The council was up against 78 other authorities bidding for the cash.

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THAMES VALLEY HOUSING RESIDENTS GIVE THEIR VIEWS
12 March 2010

Thames Valley Housing (TVH) residents have been giving their views on what local community service improvements would benefit their neighbourhoods. TVH staff dished out the cones from a ‘consultation ice cream van’ visiting estates in Hounslow on the 5th and 6th of March, whilst residents answered their questions. The ice cream van also visited Rushmoor on the 7th and 8th of March, and will be going to Reading on the 12th and 13th. The consultation exercise is being carried out by TVH as part of their newly launched Community Investment Strategy. The residents’ views will help define how investment of £150,000 will improve local services for the whole community, not just TVH residents. Picture: Paul Augarde speaking with a mother and daughter. The programme, which runs over three years, also includes work with local youth services, developing a Young People’s Forum, providing training & employment opportunities and administering TVH’s Community Chest, which funds wider community initiatives. Paul Augarde, community investment manager at TVH, said: “We are determined to ensure that residents are leading our understanding of service needs in their local area. “Getting staff out in the residents’ communities gave them the chance to tell us what they wanted in detail. “This means that through targeted partnerships with local service providers including councils, schools, and community groups, we can invest in the service improvements that communities really want.”

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KENT CREDIT UNION TO HELP LOW INCOME FAMILIES
12 March 2010

A new credit union aims to show families on low incomes that there is an alternative to borrowing money from loan sharks or the easy availability of payday loans. Kent Savers will provide services to more than one million people, the largest coverage for any UK credit union and will offer services to customers wanting an alternative to high interest loans or payday loans, and ethical, easy-saving options, including payroll deduction schemes. Many payday loan companies have sprung up on the internet, which, while regulated to a degree, legitimately offer same day loans at extortionate interest rates, often at a thousand plus percent. Ursula Wacher, chair of the board of directors at Kent Savers, said: “Kent Savers is duty bound, actually legally obliged, to promote thrift and sound financial education of its membership. And like any membership organisation our members have a say in the way we run our business. Unlike banks, our members have a vote which actually counts.” The formation of the credit union provides an alternative for customers who have lost trust in financial institutions due to the recession brought about by the banking system. Because it is an independent cooperative, Kent Savers will reinvest profits within new loans schemes and ethical investment. All deposits are 100% protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. John Fowler, chief officer of Kent Savers, said: “Kent Savers is for everyone, we will have investment plans and loan rates which are competitive and we welcome people on low incomes. We have a responsibility to focus on people living in deprived areas where the benefits of the credit union can be most pronounced. “For example if 100 borrowers used Kent Savers instead of a doorstep loan company the savings would be £34,000 per year. This is extra income which can either be saved or reinvested within the community. Currently there are a large number of people who are financially excluded in Kent and we want to help address this.” Initial funding of £250,000 for Kent Savers has been provided by Kent County Council with a further £500,000 coming from a number of partnerships and organisations. Kent Savers will target 1.6 million people in Kent giving it the largest common bond in the UK. The range of products Kent Savers will be able to offer looks set to increase under new regulations due in October 2010, opening the credit union to a range of interest bearing accounts, ISAs, Child Trust Funds and other instant or limited access accounts. Kent Savers services will appeal broadly across the community by offering a return to the building society model of responsible lending and people focussed services. It aims to support the alternative economy and bring benefits to all. By linking loans to savings Kent Savers can help move people’s finances onto a more secure footing as they begin to save at the same time they borrow. Kevin Lynes, Kent County Council cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, added: “Kent Savers will provide financial trust and support where it is needed most, while also offering a genuine alternative for people looking to invest their savings and apply for loans. We see this initiative as a vital resource for the county to help the people of Kent. I am particularly pleased that KCC has been able to help set up the credit union.”

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HOUSING NEWS: JOBS AND TENDERS ROUND-UP
12 March 2010

Housing News is advertising the following jobs and tenders on its regional newsletters: JOBS West Kent Housing Association is seeking a Policy/Service Improvement Manager. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london. Closing Date: March 18. Hammersmith United Charities is seeking a Trustee - Housing Specialist. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/london/job. The Northern Housing Consortium is seeking a Procurement Manager based in Sunderland, salary circa £31k + benefits. For more information, go to: www.housingnews.co.uk/northeast. Closing date: March 22. 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 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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