ISSUE NO.2
FIRE SAFETY IN YOUR HOME What we are doing, and what you can do
HOW TO GET A TRANSFER Could you be eligible to join the list?
ESTATE SERVICES
We take a look at the project, six months down the road Meet your Income Recovery Officers - do you know who they are? Plus a delicious falafel ‘Resident Recipe’ Can you spot where our cover image was taken?
HOUSING REVIEW from...
LIAM GILLESPIE
Welcome to the Summer/ Autumn edition of @home magazine, the twice-yearly magazine for the City of London tenants and leaseholders. In this edition, you can read about how we performed in our new estate inspections regime, meet some of our expert Income Recovery Officers and learn more about the housing register and housing transfers. The main feature of all our lives since March has been the restrictions due to COVID-19. This has affected us all in different ways and it has been an especially difficult time for many of our vulnerable residents. It was amazing to see how residents on our estates clubbed together to help their neighbours stay safe and well.
Head of Housing Management
We e-mailed several Special Editions of @home during lockdown, to give people important information on how and where to access help and to give service updates. These newsletters were focused on COVID-19, so we have decided to make this magazine as COVID-19 light as possible. Lockdown posed many difficult challenges to our staff in providing services on your estates. We are reviewing what worked well, and what did not work so well, to ensure that we can make some positive changes to how we work in the future. Communicating with residents quickly and effectively was very difficult during lockdown and we have identified several ways in which we can modernise our communication methods.
We are beginning work on this, and other service improvements, and we will consult residents for ideas when the time comes. In this edition, we are also launching a resident consultation on our current Pets Policy. You may know that our tenancies and leases do not currently allow people to have a dog, for example. We have committed to reviewing this policy and we want to hear from as many people as possible on what they think of the current approach. I hope you enjoying this edition of the magazine. If you have any comments on it, or any suggestions for future editions, please email: home@cityoflondon.gov.uk.
MEET THE TEAM!
WHAT’S INSIDE? An interview with... Jason Hayes, Head of Major Projects
3
Word on the Estates
4
Meet the IROs
5
Interviewed by apprentice Christian Akamba
We take a look at the Estate Services Project, six months down the road Do you know your Income Recovery Officers? Find out more about them!
An Interview with a Resident
6
How to get a transfer
7
Fire Safety
8-9
Resident Satisfaction Survey & Estate News
10
Domestic Abuse
11
Community Gardens & Communal Areas
12
This issue we meet Raf Sikorski, who we were able to house in 2019 Do you know how the transfer process works? Could you be eligible? Advice on keeping safe in your home Launching the 2020 survey, plus a community art project It’s everyone’s business
Check out the green spaces, plus advice on communal area storage
Play Pack from Culture Mile
13
Games & Resident Recipe
14 -15
Fun activity ideas to do with kids
Have a go at a housing themed puzzle, plus a recipe from ‘Falafel Man’
2
Who are the people behind @Home magazine and newsletters?
Liane Coopey Emily Grant
Rebecca Southin Mohamed Hussain
Wendy Giaccaglia Sophie Caley Contact the team at home@cityoflondon.gov.uk
An interview with...
JASON HAYES
Calling...
Head of Major Works During lockdown we challenged Christian Akamba to do an online interview with the Head of Major Works, Jason Hayes. Christian joined the City of London at the beginning of December 2019 as a Business Support Apprentice in the New Developments Team. In his free time, Christian is a keen photographer and editor, who enjoys capturing magical moments through the lense of his camera. His other passion is musical theatre - he always aims to get a leading role. He’s appeared in Hairspray, We Will Rock you and Little Shop of Horrors – where he played a man-eating plant from outer space! I see you most days rushing round, in and out of meetings, what is your job? I joined the City of London four years ago as Senior Surveyor/Major Project Team Manager. At that time it was just me and one other project manager. As more projects developed, my job grew and evolved to cover not just project delivery but also the initial scope and inception of projects. Last year, I was promoted to a new role of Head of Major Works. I’m now responsible for the delivery of several million pounds of major works improvements across all of the City of London Estates. I manage a fantastic team of ten including Clerk of Works, Asset Programme Managers, Asset Monitoring Officers and Project Managers. As a kid what did you want to be? I wanted to be a famous footballer - or even a pop star! Obviously those were only dreams. At school I completed work experience within a bank, so when I left school, I was hoping to become an accountant; somehow I took up an apprentice role in engineering, loved it and never looked back! Are you happy with your career choices? Yes. Each new path that I have taken has involved working with different areas of property management, building a wealth of knowledge and experience in many areas. My career path has given me a firm understanding of different elements of managing property. What gets me out of bed each day is the opportunity to make a difference to people’s lives. Over the years I have been part of some amazing projects, such as taking families out of fuel poverty with renewable heating technology (being nominated for awards as a result). I have been involved with some great problem solving dilemmas, and even rescued two people trapped in a lift! I have enjoyed applying ideas to save money through efficient ways of working, and applying new technology and equipment into
our housing, ensuring longevity of repairs to save money long term. In every role, I have picked up a new ambition, which hopefully I have managed to achieve. I haven’t stopped learning yet and look forward to many more years making a difference and taking on new challenges. What are the main challenges for the Head of Major Works? Every project presents challenges, such as communicating with residents, getting the design right from the outset or working on listed buildings. A lot of the work we do can be quite disruptive to people’s lives, so the challenge is trying to keep that disruption to the bare minimum. We need to make sure that we communicate effectively with residents, being transparent, so they feel informed and really involved with the project. Ultimately, it is important for us to make sure that residents see the benefits in what we are trying to achieve. So, when you aren’t at work what are your hobbies and interests? Cooking…. and football!! I really enjoy cooking for the family, especially in the summer when I cook outside a lot and BBQ almost daily. Smoky belly pork vindaloo is my speciality. I am also a qualified FA football coach and volunteer to coach 12 superstar junior football players. I plan and set up training sessions, organise matches and keep up to date with many of the qualifications required to work with children and teach them about the skills to enjoy this sport. Finally, what advice would you give to 18-year-old Jason? Learn as much as you can whilst you are young. Once you’re older, family commitments and everything else makes your life a whole lot busier. Get as much experience in as many different areas as you can.
3
WORD ON THE ESTATES We take a look at Estate Services six months after the start of the project
te Estaces Servi ct Proje
In November 2019 the City of London Housing Department introduced a new Estate Services inspection programme, implemented to help measure and record the service provided on our estates. With the new regime we hope to highlight areas on the estates in need of attention, and identify where improvements can be made. We can also target consistency in the level of service across all areas. The following data has been taken from the inspections arried out during the period between 1 November 2019 and 31 March 2020, the standards and inspection results are available at www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/housingestateservices
522 s
n Inspectio t carried ou is during th period
7
Internal block inspections completed
people out carrying s inspection
5 INSPECTION TEMPLATES
• Estate services inspections • Grounds inspections • Fire door inspections • Fire box inspections • Playground inspections
Most common areas requiring repair • Entrances • Stairwells • Landings, balconies and corridors • Basement areas • Chutes
4
294
84.63% average score
re Areas where hazards we d most commonly identifie n Cleaning - Most commo low scoring areas • • • • •
Windows in stairwells Entrance lighting Stairwells Bin chambers Lighting in landing, balconies and corridors
71
Ground s inspecti ons carried out Nov-Ma r
and • Landings, balconies corridors (Items stored ties outside resident proper or n tio causing an obstruc potential fire hazard) with • Chute rooms (Issue ed as a tifi en chute hopper id hazard) g removed • Roof areas (Fencin of a to an unauthorised area roof) tside a • Stairwells (Items ou uated resident’s property sit in a stairwell)
82.06% Average Inspection Score
Most common ground s areas requiring repa ir
• Car parks and roads • Pathways, pavements and courtyards • Play areas • External lighting
MEET THE INCOME RECOVERY OFFICERS Most residents never meet these staff‌ but they provide an essential service in supporting residents and reducing tenant debts. The City of London recognises that the effective collection of rent is critical to maximisng the income into the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). This is the account in which housing revenue (for example, tenant’s rent) and housing costs (for example property management and maintenance) are kept. Maximising income to the HRA enables the provision of a high quality housing service for our residents. One way of ensuring that income to the HRA is maximised is by ensuring all residents pay their rent in a timely manner. But at times and for varying reasons, some residents struggle to do this. Debt prevention is more effective than debt recovery and tackling rent arrears at an early stage can help sustain tenancies, and can avoid further legal action and the risk of eviction. Rent arrears are a priority debt and we encourage anyone who is struggling financially to contact the Income Recovery Team (incomerecoverofficer@cityoflondon.gov.uk) to arrange repayment or discuss making an agreed payment arrangement to reduce and clear any rent arrears. The Income Recovery Officers endeavour to work proactively to help and support all residents to maximise their income and provide them with welfare benefit advice or signpost to appropriate agencies. Our trained team of advisors are here to offer support and assistance. The sooner you talk to them, the sooner you can receive the assistance you need.
DEAN ROBINSON - Southwark, William Blake, Sydenham Hill & Almshouses
I have worked for the City for four years but have worked in housing for over 27 years in total and as an Income Recovery Officer for nearly 13 years. Prior to this, my background was in Customer Services, Housing Benefits and Welfare Benefits. I find the most rewarding part of my job is the ability to build good relationships with the residents to help them to tackle debts, clear arrears and when possible avoid legal action to help them sustain their tenancies. In 2018/2019 I managed the Tenancy Visits Project which was carried out by a team of visiting officers across all the City of London estates. I led on compiling and updating information on households and properties. The COVID-19 crisis has been a challenge for everyone, but for me as an Income Recovery Officer it has meant using my experience and rapport to support and assist residents and deal with the increase 020 7620 3702 of new Universal Credit claims, signposting residents in need to obtain maximum welfare benefits or dean.robinson@ cityoflondon.gov.uk seek free advice from City Advice in the uncertain changing economic climate.
JENNIFER JENKINS - Avondale Square Estate
Working on Avondale Square Estate for the past 12 years, I have enjoyed providing an on-the-spot service for our residents. Each working day is different, from offering benefit advice to making affordable payment plans to assisting the most vulnerable residents. I am a Food Voucher Holder and will signpost residents to other service providers when necessary. My main challenge is navigating the complex benefit system whilst ensuring that our residents receive an excellent service from me. Another challenging aspect of the role is when cases go to court as they can be very complex, our aim is to keep people in their homes and support them where possible.
07702 894620
jenniferjenkins@ cityoflondon.gov.uk
IMRAN QURESHI - York Way, Holloway, Windsor House & Isleden House
I began my career at the City of London in 2010 as a Rent Support Officer. Being familiar with rent collection processes, many tenants and the estates proved invaluable when moving to my current role in 2013. I am pleased to assist tenants who have concerns regarding rent who may also be experiencing financial difficulty, for example due to job loss, or changes with Housing Benefit and Universal Credit. Part of the role is to work with tenants and find solutions to these issues. Changes and updates to rules and regulations with respect to benefits can be a 07860 704417 challenge, agreements made with tenants require amending and those agreements made are imran.qureshi@ not always honoured. Like all my colleagues, I would encourage tenants who may have concerns cityoflondon.gov.uk or experiencing difficulties to get in contact.
CHRISTINE VANHORN-PAYNE - Golden Lane, Middlesex Street, & Spitalfields I have been working for the City of London Rents Team since 2003. In June 2020 I was given an opportunity to be seconded into the role of Income Recovery Officer. Taking on this role I will bring invaluable experience from my years on the Rents Team; helping residents with queries, liaising with Universal Credit and the Benefits Team and recovering former tenant arrears. Starting a new job during the pandemic was challenging - I look forward to a time when I can meet the residents face to face. In the meantime, I will offer support and assistance when needed by telephone or email. I also will be working closely with colleagues to support 07566 766349 residents facing financial hardship. christine.vanhorn-payne @cityoflondon.gov.uk
5
AN INTERVIEW WITH A RESIDENT
We spoke with Raf Sikorski, who was housed on Avondale Square Estate after being on the waiting list for one week short of six years. Raf works as a cleaning supervisor for the City. “Avondale Square Estate is located on the Old Kent Road in Southwark. It was constructed between 1958 and 1962 and is the largest of City of London’s housing estates. The area the estate occupied has belonged to the City since 1251, and was originally known as Twelve Acres.” You have lived at Avondale for just over a year now, where were you based before and how does this compare to your previous home? We were based in North Kensingston. There is absolutely no comparison! The old flat was tiny, we have bigger place now and it is wonderful. There was no sense of community in the neighbourhood either. After a month of moving into our place at Avondale Estate one of our neighbours brought round a cake and the next day we sent one round to her too, it was such a lovely welcome to our new home. Can you tell me what it was like when you first moved here and how you felt when you were settling into life on the Estate? From the beginning people have been very friendly and we have felt welcomed. This has really helped us to settle into our home. During the period of lockdown neighbours have seen that I am still going to work and have offered to shop for us – they are so supportive and kind. My neighbours have been out supporting our carers, cleaners and NHS workers. How did you find the Housing Application process? It can be daunting but the team were very helpful. When I got married, we applied for a three bedroom flat and I was on the list for around two and a half years for that property, having first been on the list waiting for a studio since 2013. We signed our agreement on 31 May 2019 – it was a very good day. What was the form like? Some of the questions could be difficult for some people but if you do have problems, the team are there to help you. You need to bring supporting papers, sometimes you think you have provided everything then you get another request to submit more information.
How were the staff involved in handling your application? Staff were very good they were quick with communications and helpful. They explained everything and if I did not understand they would arrange to see me face to face. Very helpful. Did you consider a move to another local council or were you intent on waiting for a City of London property? The estate is close to my work and I know the community at the Barbican Estate Office. The City of London Housing team has a good reputation for supporting residents, I know less about other local authority housing estates but I was keen to be housed with an authority that supports community, diversity and has good customer relations with residents. What do you like about the City? I come from Poland. When people say ‘where do you live?’ I say I live on Avondale, a City of London estate and that I am in central London – that is the most famous borough of London with all the history and power! I think that wherever you go in the world people will know about the City of London. What is your favourite thing about living on Avondale Estate, and what is your least favourite thing? The facilities are amazing, the shops and transport are all accessible. I am a family man so access to good quality education is important and there are lots of good schools in the area. There are lots of opportunities for children, with brilliant play areas all around. We live close to Tower Bridge and other amazing landmarks – when my family visit us, they are so impressed. It is a safe estate, compared to surrounding areas, we do not seem to have much trouble on our estate. My least favourite thing is that my wife makes me do gardening! We are opposite the gardens, the gardeners do a fantastic job. My wife is trying to get me to that standard. Gardening does not come naturally to me!
Do you find it easy to report issues on the estate or to the repairs team? Do you feel that you receive adequate communications from the City of London Housing team about your housing and the estate? In general, I find the reporting of repairs easy, we get a response and they schedule an appointment. So far, I have not had a problem with repairs operatives not keeping appointments, though there have been occasions when they have contacted us to rearrange appointments. The information we receive from the City of London is informative and I believe that we receive the right amount. How are you finding Avondale? Is there a community spirit? I really like my estate, my home. The community spirit is very good and my neighbours are friendly, they take the time to talk to you, people smile, they all seem happy to me. It feels like a real community, we are supporting each other, I feel if any one reached out there is a good community there to support you. Do you feel that there are enough community events on your estates? I don’t know much about the community events, but I would like to know more and get involved. Are there any other events that you would like to see happen on your estate? We should celebrate a Founder’s Day, or the date that Avondale Estate was erected. It is such a great estate and needs celebrating. What more can Housing do to improve our services for residents? I think that a yearly or twice-yearly community meeting, with some City of London Housing officers would be a great idea. I would like to be more involved in the life of the estate and community meetings would encourage resident involvement.
We’d like to feature interviews with a variety of residents, to get your perspective on life in your community. If you would like to be interviewed for a future issue, please contact us by emailing home@cityoflondon.gov.uk
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HOUSING TRANSFERS
Did you know that you may be eligible for a housing transfer depending on your housing needs and how many people are living in your home? Waiting times on the transfer list can be lengthy depending on the size of property you require, area you wish to live in, and priority points you have been allocated. Existing tenants may be on the wating list for many reasons; • looking to move to a larger size property • to downsize into a smaller property if you are no longer using all the bedrooms in your home. The most in demand properties are studios and two bedroom properties. The demand for four bedroom properties is relatively small, unfortunately we have had only one vacant four bedroom property available for bidding in the last five years.
Some tenants are eligible for a shift payment when downsizing. Moving to a property the same size as your current home in a ‘like to like’ move can only be done in certain circumstances. You will need to demonstrate medical or welfare needs, or have grounds to move via a management transfer. If you believe you have grounds for a ‘like to like’ transfer, please contact the Housing Needs Team or your Estate Office. To apply for a transfer to another City of London property, complete a transfer application form, which you can find on the Housing Register website (details below) and send it to the Housing Needs Team. Once registered you can bid for properties via the Choice Based Lettings website.
You can exchange for a property which is the appropriate size for your household, or one bedroom larger. Not all landlords accept households moving into properties larger than their assessed need so you should check with the other landlord before proceeding with the mutual exchange to avoid disappointment. You can also register with Housing Moves, a scheme run by the Mayor of London which will allow you to search for properties in any other London Borough. Housing Moves can’t be used to move within your own borough.
You may be interested in finding a new property via mutual exchange. A mutual exchange involves swapping your property with another social housing tenant, who could be based anywhere in the country! We recommend the mutual exchange website Homeswapper (details below) however you may also find an exchange partner independently. If you have found someone you wish to swap with, contact the Housing Needs Team.
THE HOUSING NEEDS TEAM Email: hadvice@cityoflondon.gov.uk Housing Needs: 020 8142 3903 / 3904 Allocations: 020 8142 3905
If you live outside of the square mile (on one of our estates in Southwark, Hackney, Tower Hamlets, Islington, Lambeth or Lewisham) you may also be eligible to join the waiting lists of the local authority where you physically reside. You will need to check with them whether you are eligible, and this is usually dependant on length of residency. The City of London allows you to have active housing applications with us and other local authorities/ providers, however you will need to check if the other local authority/provider allows this.
Housing Register: www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/housingregister Homeswapper: www.homeswapper.co.uk Housing Moves: www.housingmoves.org
7
FIRE SAFETY
Who is this for?
This information applies to all residential tenants, including leaseholders
Who is responsible for fire safety?
Many people and organisations, including the City of London and tenants themselves, are responsible for checking and improving fire safety in residential properties.
What is the City of London responsible for?
As the landlord, the City of London has a legal duty to ensure that a fire risk assessment is carried out to identify and remove any fire risks and hazards, or to reduce these as far as possible. Fire risk assessments for all our residential blocks can be found on the City of London website. For it’s social housing homes, the City of London is responsible for ensuring that the properties meet fire safety standards. We also need to keep our tenants informed of what to do in an emergency, including providing evacuation plans. As the landlord, we must ensure that front doors of flats and communal areas (such as corridors and staircases) have self-closing fire doors installed. These are designed to stop the spread of fires and should not be held open. Landlords should also ensure that fire exits and escape routes in their buildings are not blocked, and that everyone in the building knows the evacuation plan in case there is a fire (this includes tenants and staff members). If you think there is a potential fire risk caused by a disrepair in your property or building that the City of London is responsible for repairing, you should report this issue to the Repairs Service Desk on 0800 035 0003 immediately with your concerns.
Gas Safety
The City of London has a legal obligation to have the gas supply and any gas appliances in their properties checked every year by a gas safety engineer, and to provide a gas safety certificate to their tenants at the start of their tenancy and then within 28 days of every annual check. Landlords also have a legal duty to install carbon monoxide detectors in any rooms where a solid fuel can be burned (such as on a wood or coal burning stove).
If you think there is a gas or carbon monoxide leak in your property you should contact the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
What we are doing to improve fire safety
A considerable amount of fire safety work either has been done, is being done or is scheduled to be done to bring our housing stock up to the required standard. We are currently installing new fire safety equipment into our housing blocks and considering various ways to improve and ensure fire safety within the blocks. Fire safety is paramount for our residents and employees.
We are putting the following measures within communal areas: • new directional fire safety signage throughout estates • new energy efficient LED communal and emergency lighting
We will be continuing to upgrade:
• installing domestic smoke detector systems in tenants’ homes • new fire doors to flat entrances • new communal fire doors • renewing and upgrading the fire compartmentation (service penetrations) of all the blocks When new fire safety regulations are issued by the government, we will be looking to incorporate and implement these into our housing stock. We are all responsible for fire safety within our homes and blocks. Should you have any concerns please contact your Estate Manager.
Tenants can report landlords’ failure to comply with any of these requirements to the Health and Safety executive.
Further information on Housing Fire Safety is available online, including Fire Risk Assessments for all estates: www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ housingfiresafety
Be prepared in case of fire • Familiarise yourself with your fire escape routes • Your building will have its own evacuation procedure in case of fire. If you do not know what it is for your building, please ask your Estate Manager • Keep all exit routes clear, including communal areas. Items such as buggies or bikes can cause obstructions to escape routes. Even small, seemingly harmless items such as door mats or plant pots can form an obstruction if it’s dark and smoky • Keep all fire doors closed, especially those in communal areas • If you lock your doors at night, keep your keys somewhere safe where everyone in your household can find them, just in case you need to get out quickly
8
KEEPING SAFE IN YOUR HOME What are tenants responsible for?
Your responsibility is to ensure you are aware of the fire hazards in your home and work to reduce the risk of fire. Most fires in the home can be prevented by taking some basic precautions. Below we give some information about fire safety and how you can protect yourself, your family and your neighbours.
Smoke Alarms
alert the easiest way to A smoke alarm is time u of fire, giving yo you to the danger m ar al have a smoke to escape. If you me: installed in your ho re sible for making su • You are respon g kin s are in wor your smoke alarm order. onth. e alarms every m • Test your smok oke ur le testing yo sm If you have troub r, be , family mem alarm ask a friend r to test it for you. re neighbour or ca a one smoke alarms have • If any of your d ge an ch e sure it is year battery, mak t ou ry tte take the ba every year. Only replace it. when you need to the case and en op – • Twice a year e e inside to remov gently vacuum th t n’ es ors. If it do dust from the sens ugh the holes. ro th open, vacuum
In the kitchen
• Keep towels an d cloths away from the cooker an d hob • Use a spark de vice to light a ga s cooker. These ar e safer than matches or lighter s because they don’t have a nake d flame. • Take extra ca re if you need to leave the kitchen while cooking, take pans off the heat or turn them down. • Double check the cooker is off when you have fin ished cooking. • Keep the oven , hob and grill clean and in good working order. A build up of fat an d grease can ignite a fire. • Take extra ca re when cooking with hot oil as it ca n easily overheat and ca tch fire.
Electrical Items
• Keep electrics (leads and appliances) away from water. • Use an adaptor when usin g a non UK electrical appliance. • Do not use portable heaters for drying laundry. • An extension lead or adapto r will have a limit to how many amps it can take, so be careful not to overload them. • Be aware of electrical app liances that generate a lot of heat (for example hair dryers or irons), these will need to be plugged into a socket by themselves. • Let us know immediately if you are concerned about the electrics in your pro perty, for example if you notice burn marks around plugs or cables.
Before going to bed
• Make sure the cooker is turned off and the kitchen door shut. • Switch off any portable heaters. • Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances except those meant to stay on like a fridge.
ma e o h e h t d n Arou l with candles and teor
on refu • Be ca void placing them rn or u lights. A t could b terials tha ins. a m r a e n a – like curt hters out of catch fire lig d n a matches • Keep ’s reach. children bed. r smoke in rbeque on • Neve a b r have a • Neve s. t your balconie e sure tha nt k a m to k re-resista • Chec has the fi furniture nt label. mbols permane ourself with the sy s arise y ppliance • Famili at your a th w o sh which safe: hings are and furnis
• Stub out cigarettes and always empty and extinguish ashtrays. • If you use an electric blanket, turn it off when you get into bed and never use it with a hot water bottle. • Count how many doors you may need to go through to escape. It may be hard to see in smoke and you may become confused about where you are.
Electrica l items
Gas fitting and repair
Soft furnishings
9
PETS POLICY
We are seeking your views on our current Pets Policy. Your responses will be used to help us decide on any changes to the current policy and we want to hear from as many residents as possible.
The current policy and other information can be viewed online at: www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/housingpetspolicy Summary of our Current Pets Policy (2017) • Up to two house cats may be kept; cats are not allowed anywhere outside on the estate, including communal corridors, walkways and gardens • Dogs are not permitted in flats or maisonettes (except Guide Dogs and other assistance dogs, which must be registered with a recognised organisation) • One dog can be kept if you live in a house with a private garden • ‘Small domestic pets’ (for example, hamsters, caged birds and fish) are permitted • Exotic or wild animals are not permitted in our homes residents e k li u o y ld Wou ate to be t s e r u o y n o keep dogs? o t d e w o ll a
WE WILL BE ASKING Plus any other comments you have
Would you on your est like residents ate to keep exo to be allowed tic pets reptiles, spid (e.g. ers)?
Email your thoughts to Community.Engagement@cityoflondon.gov.uk the questions will also be included in the Resident Satisfaction Survey. The deadline to comment is 18 October. 10
DOMESTIC ABUSE IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS “What goes on behind closed doors...” “It’s not my business...” These are the comments often made when residents hear noise from their neighbours. But what if that noise you’re hearing is your neighbour being abused by someone in their home? What if they are badly injured or even worse... In February 2016 a young man knew his neighbours had a volatile relationship, he could hear it through their adjoining wall. He talked to his dad about his concerns, but was told not to get involved, it wasn’t anything to do with him. One day he was especially concerned, and he recorded the noise on his phone. What he recorded was his neighbour murdering their partner. This became a pivotal piece of evidence in the murder trial where the perpetrator tried to blame the victim for her death. The recording proved otherwise.
Domestic abuse is everyone’s business, it is not a private matter.
Violence in relationships in all its forms is unacceptable. It affects all communities and has an significant impact on the lives of those individuals affected, their families and the wider community. Tackling domestic violence is therefore ‘everybody’s business’. People turn a blind eye for so many reasons; fear of making it worse, their own safety, not wanting to pry, it could be nothing, or the idea that they should just leave it alone. The City of London is committed to tackling domestic abuse, but we cannot do it alone, we need the support of residents. During the period of lockdown calls to the National Domestic Abuse helpline have increased by 49%. If you are concerned for a neighbour, there are different options available for reporting and accessing support for this. We would encourage neighbours to look out for one another and report any concerns of abuse or crime to the police. If you are concerned that a neighbour is in immediate danger, please call the police on 999. You can also call the police on 101 if you would like to report an incident that is not an emergency. The Noise App is an easy way to gather evidence which can be passed on to the police. If you would like to report an incident anonymously you can contact CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 There is also support available for people who have witnessed or been affected by crime. The Victim Support helpline contact number is 0808 16 89 111, this service is open 24/7.
DON’T FORGET YOUR FLU VACCINATION THIS AUTUMN Every year, flu (influenza) hospitalises and kills thousands of people. As we all know, this is anything but an average year. The flu virus spreads from person to person, even among those not showing any symptoms, and while the threat is invisible, there is a clear way to get protected – by getting a flu jab. Flu can cause severe complications, particularly for people in high-risk groups, including: • • • • • •
pregnant women children aged 2 to 11 years old individuals who have been “shielding” and members of their household people aged 65 years old and above frontline health and social care workers people with long-term health condition(s)
Individuals who fall into any of the above categories qualify for a free flu vaccination on the NHS and should speak to their GP or pharmacist about arranging a flu vaccination as soon as possible. If you, or someone you care for, is eligible for an NHS flu vaccination, but feels they may struggle to access a GP surgery or pharmacy because of their medical condition, please do mention this when speaking with your GP or pharmacy, as alternative arrangements may be available. Keep up your guard against flu this winter and don’t delay in booking an appointment.
11
COMMUNITY GARDENS
Now more than ever we are all appreciating our green spaces and gardens. Any residents or community groups who are interested in growing their green spaces can apply for the ‘Grow Back Greener Fund’. For advice or more information, email us.
Sumner Buildings
Isleden House
Avondale Square
Holloway
Horace Jones House Middlesex Street Golden Lane
Middlesex Street
COLLINSON COURT GARDENING GROUP
Avondale Square
Isleden House
Residents of Collinson Court (Southwark Estates) have been busy tending to their community gardens where they grow flowers, fruit and share seedings with residents
Check out their Instagram! @collinson.gardening
York Way
COMMUNAL AREAS - WHAT’S ALLOWED?
We know most of our residents take pride in their estate and like to make their communal areas look welcoming. Whilst we want you to enjoy your home and surrounding area, we have to balance this with our legal responsibilities around health and safety. As a rule, all access routes on estates i.e. stairs, hallways, walkways and paths must always be kept clear. The estate teams will remove any items that pose a fire risk or cause an obstruction. As landlord, we’re legally obliged to ensure your household and neighbours can exit the building in an emergency and that the emergency services are not hindered in their rescue duties.
So, what is and isn’t allowed on our communal areas?
PERSONAL BELONGINGS?
DOORMATS?
PLANTS? WITHIN YES GUIDELINES
NO Bicycles, prams, mobility vehicles children’s play equipment, shoes etc must be stored in designated storage facilities i.e. sheds/ garages, or within your homes. If you use a mobility vehicle speak to the estate team for advice on suitable storage. Highly flammable items such as candles, lanterns, tea lights and shrines are not allowed in communal areas.
YES
WITHIN GUIDELINES
Planters should be kept adjacent to the external wall of your property, extend no further than 45cm, and not grow beyond 120cm in height. Trellis and climbing plants above this height are not allowed. Hanging baskets should project no further than 30cm. Plants on railings should not hang externally and be securely fixed. Planters and flowerpots are not permitted on windowsills and ledges.
Ensure they are in good condition, no curling edges, non-slip backing. Carpet pieces, rugs and runners are not allowed.
GARDEN FURNTIURE?
WITHIN YES GUIDELINES
Depending on the layout of your estate, some garden furniture can be used if access routes are maintained at all times. Furniture must be stored away when not in use.
Enjoy your communal areas but help us to keep everyone safe!
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RESIDENT SATISFACTION SURVEY What do you think of the City of London Housing Service?
Are you happy with the way we run things?
Do you think you receive value for money?
Are you kept well informed?
The answers to these questions are vital to gain an understanding of our residents and communities, help us to improve our services and direct resources to the issues that matter most. In conducting a residents’ survey, we have an opportunity to understand what our residents think and get valuable insight into how we are perceived as your housing provider. It also helps us to remain transparent in our decision making and keeps us accountable to the people we serve as we monitor and address any changes in satisfaction levels over time. Surveying our residents is important to help shape strategy. Understanding how residents consume information, and more importantly would like to, enables us to develop messages that resonate with our communities – critical for building trust and confidence in the City of London Housing Service. We want to know if our service communication methods are reaching our residents, and if these methods are working for you. Opening up the opportunity for residents to help shape our services and organisation is crucial, we strive to constantly improve, change lives and create places that people or scan the QR co want to live, work and invest in. de The survey will be distributed via email in the week beginning 21 September. Hard copies will be distributed to our residents in sheltered housing. If you would like to complete the survey online, it can be found at www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/residentsatisfaction
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GAMES
You can complete this puzzle online! Go to: www.crosswordlabs.com/ view/summer-1063
Across 1. Protects your eyes during sunny weather 2. This activity involves plenty of rowing and good arm action to get your catch 7. When you need a holiday but can’t leave the country 8. When it’s too warm, you need one of these to cool down slightly 9. Natural green carpet 10. Marinated food that smells great on an open fire 12. Pegs, mallet and an open fire go sweetly together with this activity 13. A really long walk through nature 14. The only place to be in summer! Down 1. The type of weather only clear skies can give 3. Prevents skin burn 4. Weeding, mowing, tending and cultivating describe this summer activity 5. You’ll need a hamper full of lunch for this 6. The best fruit to quench your thirst on a warm day
City of London Housing Estates
PEOPLE WHERE I LIVE A Community Gallery Project The Community Engagement team is running a community art project, open to people of all ages across all estates. Sign up and we will send you one of our FREE art packs, including a canvas, paints, brushes & ideas pack. Use the canvas to create your artwork however you want! The artwork will be displayed in estate community galleries, and later as part of a larger exhibition in the City. In the meantime we are creating an online gallery, so be sure to send us a photo of your finished work to see it included! Visit our webpage or check out our instagram to sign up, find out more or to see our growing community gallery!
www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/peoplewhereilive www.instagram.com/peoplewhereilive Community.Engagement@cityoflondon.gov.uk
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10. Brighton, Bournemouth and Blackpool are famous for this 11. Two wheels take you pretty far, with a decent breeze
Mint Street Moving Festival Southbank Estates
At a time of cancelled festivals, closed venues, and gigs happening only on screen, on 11 July 2020 the team behind SE1’s annual Mint Street Music Festival, including Southbank Estates residents, brought a unique event to housing blocks in Mint Street Park’s immediate vicinity: socially-distanced, free, outdoor, live music for the Southwark community – Mint Street Moving Festival. “It was wonderful. It felt like a safely distanced environment, and the spontaneity of the set made it really exciting, not least hearing live music the first time in months.” Delivered to seven housing estates (including City of London blocks) via a pair of stages on wheels, the team brought the melodic Andean folk music of Lokandes direct to the doorsteps of lock-down weary Londoners, with charango, guitar and traditional woodwind flutes and pipes. To see more about the festival or future events, check out their Instagram & Facebook @mintstreetfestival or Twitter - @mintstreetfest
Resident Recipes
FALAFELS FROM ‘FALAFEL KING’ Ingredients 250 g dried chickpeas, or 400g tinned - dry works the best 1 Red pepper 1 Onion Big bunch of fresh parsley 1 tsp Cardamom 1 tsp Chilli powder 1 tsp Cumin 1 tsp Nutmeg
100% VEGAN & GLUTEN FREE
Homemade hummus, tahini or tzatziki - but shop bought will work!
Method 1. Soak your chickpeas in plenty of water, they should almost double in size. 2. Roughly chop your peppers, onion and parsley. 3. Time to make your falafel mixture - combine your chickpeas, peppers onion and parsley in a food processor and pulse, add your cardamom, chilli, cumin and nutmeg powders and pulse again. It’s ready when the texture is like a coarse meal. Refrigerate your mixture for at least an hour, this will allow the mixture to hold together better when cooking. 4. Take your mixture out of the fridge and shape into balls, push the mixture together firmly. 5. Time to fry! Deep-frying is more traditional, but frying in a pan with a small amount of oil would also work, it’s up to you. Fry for 3-5 minutes until the outside is a medium brown. Avoid crowding the pan, batch fry them if necessary. 6. Enjoy in a wrap or pitta with salad. Add some hummus, tahini or tzatziki!
A recipe from... Said & Majid
Said and Majid(Majid is pictured to the right) are Middlesex Street Estate residents who owns a stall called ‘Falafel King’ in Petticoat Lane Market - be sure to check our their amazing food if you are ever in the area!
If you would like to see your favourite recipe featured in a future edition, please email home@cityoflondon.gov.uk
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Council Tax: 020 8356 3154
Refuse:
020 8356 6688
Council Tax: 020 7527 4990
Refuse:
020 7527 2000
KEY CONTACTS Council tax & refuse in your borough
Council Tax: 020 7364 5002
Refuse:
020 7364 5008
Council Tax: 020 7332 1882
Refuse:
Council Tax:
020 7606 3110
020 7525 1850
Refuse:
020 7525 7213
Council Tax: 0345 302 2312
Refuse:
020 7926 9000
Council Tax: 020 8690 9666
Refuse:
020 8314 6000
Barbican Estate Office
www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/housing
020 7029 3958 3 Lauderdale Place, Barbican Estate, EC2Y 8EN
Repairs
Homelessness 020 7332 1804
Universal Credit
0800 035 0003
0800 328 9344
020 7332 3937 (and ask for the Rents team)
020 7392 2919
Home Ownership
City of London Council Tax
020 7332 1647 / 3208
020 7332 1882
020 7332 1237 / 3452
0800 316 9800
020 7332 3937 (and ask for the Benefits team)
0870 608 1524
Rents
Housing Needs Benefits
City Advice
Thames Water Gas - National Grid