EBuzz - December 2016

December 2016

John’s Briefing TPAS Conference Copenhagen Christmas Songs Staff Conference AND MUCH MORE!

Get 'Ya' Jumpers Out

It's Christmas!

REMEMBER

EBuzz is put together following John’s briefings every other month. This is your newsletter and it would be great to hear some of your stories!

If you have anything you want to share, please get in touch with Louise Davies via In House, 01495 761104 or email: louise.davies@ monmouthshirehousing. co.uk We look forward to hearing from you and hope you enjoy this edition.

John’s Briefing Corporate Plan - 6 Month Review

There are currently 55 objectives with 4 carried forward from last year and 11 completed to date.

We have removed the objective relating to the development of the Capsel Waste services as this has now ceased trading due to insurance purposes.

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Rents

Welsh Government is commencing a review of the current Social Housing Rent Policy. The review will involve consulting with housing associations and stakeholders to understand the issues experienced, to identify whether the policy is fit for purpose and to determine options and recommendations. This provides Community Housing Cymru with the opportunity to explore and present to Welsh Government an alternative rent model, or to lobby for there to be no rent policy in place. There are some advantages to MHA in this, namely much of the discussions around rent are based on problems experienced

by organisations with a large presence in the valleys. Their issues are not the same as MHA’s, therefore any solution to their problems may not help MHA. I am becoming more convinced that locally set rents taking our circumstances into account would be the best solution.

We need to take into account affordability issues and the money worries people may have.

Although we are helping people into work, if you work 16 hours your benefits help cover your rent, but any increase in hours between 16-30 people fall into financial difficulties as benefits don't cover the shortfall, but if over 30 slightly better off.

Welfare Reform

John advised of shortfall of 1 bed property loses 11% of rent and 2 bed property 25% but tenants not showing much inclination to downsize.

286 tenants are affected by the Bedroom Tax, with 55% in arrears.

As at the end of September arrears were £52,320 i.e. 3.63%.

139 tenants are in receipt of a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) from MCC which partly pays the shortfall in their Housing Benefit and amounts to £67,466 per annum (average of £9.44 per property per week). DHP has assisted up to now but pressure on the DHP budget is increasing, especially as a result of the lower benefit cap introduced this month. We anticipate that MCC will reduce the support they are currently giving to tenants affected by the Bedroom Tax.

Development

lighting and little garden space.

We’ll then look at carrying out Welsh Government have set a target to deliver 20,000 new homes some market research dependent on the outcome of the report. and the Board is ambitious about build for sale, with the profits Management Accounts being subsidised for rents to keep Management Accounts looking them affordable. Development positive, there is an underspend is a risk but Board are getting on planned maintenance works, more confident and have recently but there is money aside for the agreed for us to purchase land in Powys to build for sales and we are refurbishment works at Oakley Way and Oakley Close, and this also looking at several other sites. will be spent by year end as the The development programme is works are now in progress. looking good going forward with exciting opportunities ahead.

Cleaning Contract

We’ve identified a site in Tintern and Board have agreed the purchase of land opposite the Old Forge. We can help build in these rural villages and help local people stay in Monmouthshire and their home villages and towns.

Capsel

A small profit is being made by one of Capsel’s services and we’ve given a three year window for all services to make profit which in turn subsidises MHA for us to keep our rents affordable.

Homesearch Frontline we can see how unfair benefit changes are and we think it'll become politically more attractive. There are no easy solutions and it will have an impact.

Pensions

Board are considering the future of the pension scheme and whether its own arrangements continue to be appropriate for its future needs and those of its employees. Further discussions need to be had and options considered but we’ll continue to keep you updated.

2,800 applicants are on the waiting list but demand isn't that high in Monmouthshire.

Homesearch let approximately 400 properties per year but only 200 in the top priority bands.

They're still telling us it's not properties they want.

Older Persons Accommodation

We have approached Cardiff University with a brief to develop an older person’s accommodation report to cost £1,200 per m2 with high density, efficient and cost effective properties. Bungalows are inefficient and not cost effective. We’re looking at space,

We’re in the process of appointing a cleaning contractor as part of the Void Standards and the external areas of properties and will also look at cleaning of communal areas in flats which will incur a service charge to tenants. This will also include our Headquarters.

Housing & Communities Showcase Event I loved the event, what a great effort by everyone and fantastic display of the pride people have of their teams and the work they do. We will look to get other departments to do this later on in the year.

Community Safety

The Police and Crime Commission Wales have issued their views of housing associations anti-social behaviour and needless to say we've responded as it's not how we deal with things. They are visiting us on 12th December for the team to showcase the fantastic work they do and talk to us about it so they can see exactly how we do things at MHA and change their perspective.

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COMPLIMENTS Mrs Edwards would like to thank Kerris Winter for... ”Supporting her through a difficult time during which she had no income at all by giving her food parcels and accessing debt advice and always having time to help her. She thinks the support we offer at MHA is fantastic and sets us apart from private renting.”

Mrs Bragg would like to thank Matthew Taylor for... ”Supporting her with her ESA appeal. She called to say that she is really grateful for the help that she has received – had this not been the case she would not have moved back on to ESA.”

Miss Phillips would like to thank Alyn Weaver, Marc Weaving & Nigel Jenkins for... ”Arranging and fitting the new radiators. Alyn always takes time to listen to her concerns and does all he can to help. Marc fitted the radiator and he was very polite and courteous and left no mess or marks on the wall. Nigel who helped him was lovely too.”

Mrs Jones would like to thank Nicole Lake for... ”All of her help. Mrs Jones wouldn’t have got near the house without her and they really appreciate it.”

Mrs Kidman would like to thank the DFG Team for... ”Completing the wet room for her. She says it has made a real difference to her life.”

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Fancy a Flutter?

Following the problems experienced at the staff conference and the poor quality and lack of food at lunch time, Chepstow Racecourse are offering a free ticket to staff members for the following races in 2017.

Sunday 8th January Winter Afternoon Jumps Racing.

Gates open 11.00am, first race 13.00pm

Friday 20th January Winter Afternoon Jumps Racing.

Gates open 11.10am, first race 13.10pm

Friday 3rd February Winter Afternoon Jumps Racing.

Gates open 11.40am, first race 13.40pm

Thursday 23rd March Winter Afternoon Jumps Racing.

Gates open 12.00pm, first race 14.00pm

Tuesday 16th May Spring Evening Jumps Racing.

Times TBC For more information about the race meetings please visit www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

To request tickets email Emma Assender with your preferred date.

The TPAS

Conference The TPAS Conference is an annual two day event which is a fantastic opportunity to understand more about the housing sector and what other Housing Associations are doing with participation. The big theme this year was change and the value of tenant participation in changing times.

Workshop 1

Involving young people in tenant participation (TP) This covered some of the reasons why young people typically don’t get involved with T.P, why it is important to involve them and ideas to make getting them involved easier. It was really reassuring to hear other housing associations struggle with getting younger people involved in their T.P. This has been a huge challenge for us and we are always looking for new ways to hear a wider range of our tenant’s voices Top Tip: We can’t expect young people to get involved if we don’t remove the barriers that will affect their ability or willingness to participate.

Workshop 2

Workshop 3 Digital by Default

Clwyd Alyn Housing Association shared all they have been doing to address digital exclusion. This includes silent movie sessions at their sheltered schemes with live pianists to accompany the movie with a digital drop in during the interval. They have run projects to help their tenants coming from homelessness to gain digital skills and practice their CSCS Card exam. My personal favourite is an intergenerational project where they got pupils from a local school to teach e-reader skills to older tenants, and the older tenants helped the pupils with their reading skills!

Top Tip: Don’t make it all about the scary digital skills, sell the exciting opportunities and benefits.

ARTicipation

Workshop 4

This was a hands on interactive session which showed how using interactive art can be an effective tool for engagement. We were challenged with making our ideal community out of crafts and the session leader talked to us about the various perceptions we have – good and bad – of our communities.

This workshop was a really useful reminder of how to write questions to get the answer / feedback that we want. It’s so easy to write a question that is ‘leading’ or biased or that doesn’t lead to the information we are trying to find out.

Top Tip: Think of new and creative ideas for people to get involved. Spark their interest and passion to involve them in a session.

Writing Effective questions for Engagement

Top Tip: Try the questions on a target audience of the people that you will be asking the questions to see how they interpret them and if it gives you the feedback you want.

Not only was the TPAS Conference a really great chance to pick up on best practice and innovative ideas, it was a chance to spend some quality time with some of our tenants who give so much to participation. We are really lucky to have tenants who are interested and passionate about making MHA the best it can be!

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3,004 Followers

Following 541

3,330 Tweets

@jebro Go @jebro #teamwarriors apprentice challenge #thenextchapter @Mon_Housing Our innovation area getting the “low down” by @ johnkeegan19… Think he likes it. @Mon_Housing & @CapselLtd Tracy (plasterer) & Catherine (plumber) are @Mon_Housing & @CapselLtd #apprentices Both say making a difference is key to job satisfaction @Mon_Housing Well done Satinder and Sarah #PTFA Successfully securing a bid of £500 from @MonHousing @Mon_Housing Here are some of our team and the 86 advent calendars we collected for local #foodbanks Well done to all staff for a sterling effort! @Mon_Housing 6. Congratulations Mrs Lewis, the Service Testing Team Estate Management Survey #winner – results of which formed part of the STT Check #Results

On Twitter? Why not follow us @mon_housing 6

Get your home ready for 2017 with Capsel Capsel offers a range of painting, decorating, renovation, installation and maintenance services to homeowners and landlords across South Wales.

Our experienced and reliable team of specialist trades people can carry out work including:

• Painting & decorating • External works including paths and fencing • Disabled adaptations including level access showers and stair lifts • Kitchen and bathroom installations • Roofing repairs and renewals • Carpentry • Plumbing • Electrical works • Plastering

So if your home could do with a New Year makeover – call Capsel on 0333 207 9000 today for a free, no obligation quote.

Employability & Skills Wales Conference October 2016

By Cath Murray

Farida, Helena and I were excited to attend our first Employability and Skills Wales Conference, held at Cardiff City Stadium and organised by the Learning & Work Institute of which Work & Skills Wise are members. What an event it was! With breakout sessions covering topics ranging from lessons learnt evaluations from DWP funded Universal Support Delivered Locally Trials; studies on the Wallich homelessness employability projects and Aging in Wales, improving the employability and skills of people aged 50+, it was a packed day. Amongst some really thought provoking breakout sessions were presentations from Julie James AM (Minister for

Skills and Science) and John Canacan (Policy Advisor for DWP) where we were updated on the new Work & Health Programme as a replacement to the current Work Choice and Work Programmes. The national programme is aiming to be tailored regionally and targeted to support 70% of clients with health issues and disabilities, with the other 30% being for long term unemployed (2 years plus unemployed). It was an amazing day, filling all 3 of us with new ideas, inspiration and the confidence that we are on the right track with our services and our approach. This is something we are definitely going to be attending again.

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"You never know what is going to happen next" 12:30pm – By now I’m

needing some brain food and questioning whether it’s an M&S or a Tesco kinda day (M&S usually wins and then I cry about how much I just spent on a sarnie).

1pm – More visits & more

Staff Spotlight Jessie O'Connell 6:30am – Dragging myself out of my lovely warm bed, I have my fingers & toes crossed that my hubby’s made me a coffee & it’s waiting for me when I get downstairs! Then I watch some reality TV (most likely TOWIE) whilst doing my makeup on the sofa, very chilled mornings in the O’Connell household.

8:30am – Around now I’ve arrived at one of the hubs in the South of Monmouthshire as my patch is Chepstow. I’ll sip my coffee I’ve grabbed on the way to work & check my emails out along with my arrears cases.

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9am – I’ll organise my folder according to which visit I’m going to first (which never goes to plan by the way!) and write some notes about each visit and make sure I’ve got their rent account to hand.

9.30am – As an Income Officer you never know what is going to happen next at times especially when you are visiting tenants to discuss arrears. As part of the role you do have to try and put things in a positive light and build a relationship with tenants in order to achieve the outcomes we desire (i.e. tenants to be able to pay their rent and sustain their tenancies).

whizzing around Chepstow hoping people answer the door.

Visits can include anything from basic budgeting work, to giving benefits advice, discussing rent arrangements … and the list goes on. I love how varied my job is and it most definitely keeps me on my toes, from tenant to tenant.

4.30pm – Sometimes I’m

leaving my visits now and going home or otherwise I’m at the hub again writing up notes from the day and chasing up things or dealing with some arrears cases before I leave.

5:30pm – Home time, time to chill out with the hubby and go for a walk or visit the family.

7pm – We are usually at home eating whatever I’ve cooked as I’m the only chef in our household and I’ve probably popped open the prosecco.

8pm – Time to get ready for bed & binge watch some boxset on Netflix or catch up on the soaps.

9:30pm – I’m almost always

sleeping by 9.30pm even if I say I’m staying up late, I need lots of beauty sleep is always my excuse!

My Weight Loss

By Kerris Winter

Support & Direction = Success

Gemma Gajic runs this project, helping people into work: Pathway to Careers is a project which is centered on supporting people into voluntary and paid employment. I can offer support with CVs, job application forms, interview techniques and voluntary placements. We also run a job seeking skills programme which has great results and so far this year placed nine people into work.

Because MHA works with the Department for Work and Pensions to run this project I am able to work with anyone in the Monmouthshire area, not just MHA tenants. So if you know anyone in the area who is in receipt of benefits and is struggling to find work, please pass their details to me.

I have lost 3st with my New Me class since joining in June 2016 and almost 4st in total since December 2015... I'm still going strong!

I would like to thank my team who have supported me on my weight loss journey, by covering office duty for me to leave early to attend my weight loss class on Wednesday evenings and more recently covering me having an hour for lunch to go to the Crossfit Gym. 9

Copenhagen

By Claudia Blair

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We then stumbled across one of the world’s best restaurants, Noma. Although it was closed and we didn’t have a reservation, we felt the need to take selfies!! It has clearly become a part of the tourist tour as quite a few people walked by and did the same. A hipster couple cycled up and literally gasped as they came across it!

Inside the Mirror Dome

As the weather gets colder and the nights draw in, some people have a half term break to catch a last glimpse of summer. Well, we bucked the trend and went to Copenhagen – colder, darker, wetter…just the thing!

We stayed in a flat in Frederiksberg, just a few bus stops outside the centre of town. The guides described the area as fashionable and posh; it sounded like an excellent base for me, my husband, daughter, sister and dad! The flat was a little disappointing at first with one broken bed, mouldy food in the fridge and some radiators not working.

But a very nice man came to fix things for us; he was full of apologies and promised to sort things out first thing in the morning.

Copenhagen is a compact city with some quite distinct areas. Highlights of our trip included a trip to Christianshavn. Here we visited Vor Frelsers Kirke, with its helix spire with an external winding staircase that can be climbed to the top. From the top we got a fantastic view of the city. Then after a delicious lunch in a cafe, Lagkagehuset, and shelter from the rain we headed to Christiania. This has been a source of controversy since its creation in a squatted military area in the 70s and is known for its autonomous inhabitants’ different way of life. The homemade houses and eclecticism was intriguing but the heavy scent of “alternative living” was starting to make me feel a bit queasy. We walked on over to the harbour side and came across a mirrored dome you could step into – quite a spacey feeling, perhaps assisted by the recent visit to Christiania!

Another great place was the fabulous Design Museum; go without a 9 year old if you can! There is a wonderful exhibition on Japanese design and its influence on Danish and European design. They have drawers and drawers of exquisitely decorated sword guards. There was also a great section on furniture, of course, and a whole area dedicated to Arne Jacobsen. In the foyer there was a bright red giant Hans Wegner chair which did entertain the 9 year old, thankfully!

My daughter’s highlight was a trip to the amusement park, Tivoli Gardens. We arrived at nightfall and the place was decorated with pumpkins, spiders, ghouls and lots of magical, spooky atmosphere. We had a few rides and particularly enjoyed the ride called Vertigo, also known as plane on a stick! We travelled at 100 km/h and did crazy loop the loops and the plane turned facing directly towards the ground before whizzing us back into the air.

It was a lovely city to walk around and admire the buildings, interesting shops and pretty bakeries with lots to fill our time. However, other than transport, it was very expensive to stay, eat, drink, and visit places. People were friendly, helpful and thankfully, had brilliant linguistic skills (unlike us!). I’d like to visit again in the summer to do bike rides and a boat ride and maybe another Vertigo ride at Tivoli!

View from top of Vor Frelsers Kirke 11

Why not say hello to all the new starters on

Sarah Herbert Ziggies Co-ordinator Hey I’m Sarah, I am 24 (25 in 4 weeks) and I live in Blaenavon.

I started at MHA in September after finishing at United Welsh. I have worked in housing for the last 4 years, in a variety of roles: energy advisor, customer service agent, tenant liaison officer, neighbourhood assistant and assistant neighbourhood manager. I am loving my time at MHA and everyone I have met are so nice!

I have a 2 year old son who is the apple of my eye but keeps me on my toes, along with 2 Jack Russels which I enjoy walking when I get the chance. I also go to a HIIT class once a week and I love socialising, especially when there is food and drink involved!

Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why?

If I had to be stuck in a lift with anyone it would be any of the Kardashian family – yes I am sad and watch their programme every week – their lifestyle amazes me!

Teri Power Social Inclusion Officer I'm Teri, I'm 21 and from Merthyr.

I have undertaken various volunteering roles, for example, I have been a support worker for people involved with domestic abuse, I've been an activities coordinator in Green Hill Manor Care home, I've been an activities coordinator for a children's play association and I worked for a number of years in a children's contact centre.

I studied Supported Housing at university and graduated in June 2016 with a 2:1 before undertaking an internship with MHA within the Neighbourhood Team.

My role as a Social Inclusion Officer is priority to enabling wellbeing. I meet with individuals on a one to one basis to assess their needs and interests. After this I will undertake research and signposting to enable the individual to get back into the community via their interests. Where I notice gaps in provision I can set up and facilitate courses to meet demands.

Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why?

Michael McIntyre -hes hilarious and would take my mind off having a panic attack!

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Stacey White PR & Admin Support Assistant I am a crazy dog lady (4 in total) with a love of photography, the countryside and a bargain! Little bit (okay, a lotta bit) loud but can always make people smile with the likes of #TastyTuesday!

Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why?

I would prefer not to be stuck in a lift, but if I was, it would have to be with Stephen Fry - I find the guy fascinating and I think he would help me pass the time!

Shane Reece Maintenance Officer I have recently joined MHA after 4 years with Stroud District Council working as a Void and Repairs Officer. I am glad to be back working a bit closer to home in Wales after travelling across the bridge to work for the last 9 years in total. My hobbies include playing rugby, keeping two very active children busy, listening to lots of music and getting away at weekends as much as possible... look forward to meeting you if I haven’t already.

Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why?

For me Will Ferrell, I find him incredibly funny and I’m sure he could make a bad experience a bit less painful.

Caroline Evans Administrative Assistant I started working for MHA in October and everyone has been really welcoming. I have two admin roles – so if I seem to be everywhere, that’s why!! Monday/Tuesday I work with the Homesearch team and Wednesday/Thursday/Friday, I am with the Moneywise team. My previous employment experience has been with the Probation Service for the last fourteen years. I enjoy going on holidays, reading and sometimes keeping fit.

Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why?

If I was stuck in a lift with someone, I would have to choose a practical solution – so ‘Superman’ comes to mind to help me escape!

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...continued

Rob McCracken Tenancy Coach I came to MHA as a Project Intern in July 2016 and was appointed as a Tenancy Coach in October. My background is in mental health, I trained as an Enrolled Nurse (Mental) as an 18 year old and have worked in various related roles since e.g. traumatised adolescents, minorities with mental health issues and youth homelessness in Ireland, England and Wales. In my spare time I read a lot (history and politics), do a bit of painting and regularly travel back to Belfast to see my mother and my two sons.

Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why?

My sporting hero is Paulie O’Connell, the best lock forward in the world since Willie John McBride, so I’ll pick him. We could plot the path to Irish dominance of world rugby.

Chanelle Baker Tenancy Coach I started here at the end of October as a Tenancy Coach. I have previously worked as a Support Worker at another housing association. Prior to that I was an apprentice here in the DSO so it’s amazing to have the opportunity to come back to a great place to work and start my next adventure.

Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why?

I would have to be stuck with Ellen Degeneres, I find her hilarious. I’m also a bit of a Pixar nerd so I love Dory!

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We wish them the best for the future

Linda Fagan Cleaner

Marilyn Moss Cleaner

Victoria Cleave Administrative Assistant

Katrina Surtees Team Leader (Planning)

Duncan Smith Maintenance Officer

James Parry Capsel Waste Manager

Sarah Stephens Capsel Sales & Lettings Officer

Julia Hale Capsel Senior Admisistrator

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What's on this

Christmas Here's a list of festive markets and events leading up to Christmas...

Cardiff Christmas Market

10 November - 23 December 2016

Santa’s Toy Mine at Rhondda Heritage Park 27 November - 24 December 2016

Mince Pie Walk, Cwmcarn Forest Drive Visitor Centre 18 December

Cardiff Winter Wonderland

10 November - 3 January

Santa Specials, Blaenavon's Heritage Railway Weekends in December

Swansea Christmas Market 24 November - 21 December

Yuletide Crafts, Bryn Bach Park, Tredegar 3 - 18 December

Santa's Grotto at The Royal Mint

26 November - 23 December

26 November - 23 December

Hereford Christmas Market

Doggy Tinsel Walk, Cwmcarn Forest Drive Visitor Centre River of Light Parade, Caerphilly Town Centre 22 December

Family Fun Christmas Afternoon Tea at Bedwellty House & Park, Tredegar 12 - 18 December

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18 December

20 December

15, 16, 22 & 23 December

Once Upon A Christmas at Llanyrafon Manor

Father Christmas at Big Pit

A Snapshot of ACTIVITIES FROM

Community Investment b on a t Officer Jaco Our Engagemen with MHA loucester Quays coach trip to G residents.

This year’s Rock Academy performing at the MAD awards.

Can out ing with Dad’s rk wo ve ti ra bo Colla e community. and about in th

lving young ference - Invo on C ru ym C TPAS ipation. people in partic

Dad’s Can doing dry stone walling in the Wye Valley with a few dads.

hing the kids ad’s Can teac Ziggies and D circus skills.

‘Dragons Den’ Pitch for your Project summer edition.

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Sponsorship Here’s the latest news from those we sponsored...

Dingestow Short Mat Bowls Club

Sudbrook Girls Football Club

We visited the club recently to see how they were getting on with their equipment. Apart from a riveting few games of bowls, John Swift on behalf of the club said;

The wintery weather is upon us and we gave the football club support so that they could buy coats so they can play in all weather! I think you’ll agree that they’re looking pretty good.

“We as a community of Dingestow are very grateful to MHA for the sponsorship of the mat roller – which has enabled the mats to be rolled up by a mostly older generation without getting on the floor to do it and the bowling arm which is a disability aid which enables people to take part in bowling competitions on equal terms.”

Abergavenny Road Club

“The club consists of around 70% MHA tenants who are now able to take part in social events which includes other MHA tenants around the county. We are a very new club with a growing membership but we are always looking to take on any new members who would like to come and have some fun.”

“We hope that MHA will continue to sponsor clubs like ours as it’s social, active and benefits people who would otherwise not get out enjoying community life.”

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This local road cycling group based in Abergavenny put on an impressively challenging road trip across the county and we donated funds to help make it happen. The group has over 300 members from school age to 70, including Becky James, silver medal winner in the Rio Olympics.

Chepstow RFC Under 15s We’ve sponsored this group of sporty youngsters to help them on their way to a rugby tournament in Portugal in April 2017. 35 young people aged 13 – 15 are hoping to represent Wales in the international tournament.

Don’t’ Walk By

DONLK’TBY

Just a reminder to insert the poster ☺

WA

‘Don’t Walk By’ sets out Monmouthshire Housing Association’s management commitment for Health and Safety at work.

Accident Reduction

Here are a selection of “Pickles” that you have awarded to your colleagues recently: Julie Nicholas has ‘pickled’ Emma Gallo for… "helping a tenant in significant arrears to access a university fund that has awarded a large grant to the tenant that will enable them to pay off their arrears in full.”

Our target is to reduce the number of accidents caused or made worse by work every day. We will do everything we can to remove the risk of accidents from HQ and all of our sites.

Karren Davies has ‘pickled’ Karen Summers, Rhiannon Pearce, Joanne Doughty & Patricia Doughton for… "staying behind on Monday to call the Glan-Y-Nant tenants about a repair issue that affected them.”

Don’t Walk By is an attitude towards cultivating a positive and safe working culture. If people identify any potential risks then they need to report it. It may be an observation, near miss or adverse event.

The message we need to put across is “Don’t walk by and report it."

Rob Carey has ‘pickled’ Ceri MelhuishThomas for… "going the extra mile by picking up and dropping off a tenant volunteer who had been taken to the wrong venue by taxi. Well done and thanks Ceri!”

Everyone is encouraged to report for immediate action anything they consider to be unsafe. Please refer to Don’t Walk By Procedure on In House.

It has proven successful in raising important issues and creating a health and safety culture of awareness and openness in which people have the confidence to speak out and report it.

Don’t Walk By can also include environmental concerns.

DON’T WALK BY. REPORT IT.

Karren Davies has ‘pickled’ Suzanne Powell for… "literally saving my life! You are magnificent.”

Cally McCarthy has ‘pickled’ Marc Weaving for… "fixing the heating at Old Hereford Road office on lunch break.

Thanks very much it was freezing!”

Do you think your colleagues should be recognised for their additional work efforts? Going above and beyond customer expectation and showing a good service. Then award them a pickle via In House.

A prize will be awarded to the employee with the most deserved pickles during the quarter.

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e v i t a n r e t Al

Christmas

Songs

Christmas songs can be like Marmite, some people embrace the seasons' sounds with open arms whilst others will turn the radio off at the first sign of a Christmas hit. Why not explore the alternative side of Christmas songs, whether you love hearing a good old fashioned Christmas tune and looking for some new ones or you can't stand the 'cheesiness' of the classics, you might find the list below a bit more to your taste... or not!

'Run Rudolph Run' 'Frosty The Snowman’ Chuck Berry Cocteau Twins ‘Just Like Christmas’ Low

'Lonely This Christmas' Lucky Soul

‘Christmas In Hollis’ Run-DMC

'Christmastime' The Smashing Pumpkins

'Christmas Song' Medicine

'Listen, The Snow Is Falling' Galaxie 500

‘Christmas Time Is Here’ Mark Kozelek

'All I Wonderful Christmas Is You' Summer Camp

‘Merry Christmas (I Don’t Want To Fight Tonight)’ The Ramones 'Santa's Got A Bag Of Soul' The Poets of Rhythm 'Must Be Santa' Bob Dylan

‘Hark The Herald Angels Sing' The Fall 'White Christmas' 93millionmilesfromthesun

Our Top Ten of the More Well Known Christmas Songs Looking for a soundtrack to get you in the Christmas spirit?

We’ve got you covered! Here are some of the top Christmas soundtracks to kick start your Christmas!

'I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday' Wizzard 'Jingle Bell Rock' Bobby Helms 'Driving Home For Christmas' Chris Rea 'Merry Xmas Everybody' Slade 'The Christmas Song' Nat King Cole 'Winter Wonderland' Doris Day 'Santa Baby' Eartha Kitt 'Last Christmas' Wham!

'All I Want For Christmas Is You' Mariah Carey 'Fairytale Of New York' The Pogues & Kirsty MacColl

Check out the In House poll and vote for your favourite Christmas song!

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GEMS Staff Suggestion Scheme

Accepted

Declined

Use video conferencing/ You Tube to stream John's Briefings.

That birthday cakes are only brought in once a month i.e. if 4 people have their birthday the same month - they arrange to bring the cakes on the same day. Each floor could have a kitty and whoever has their birthday that month arranges to get the money from the kitty and buy cakes on one day.

Currently a personal choice if cakes are brought/eaten or not. Suggest maybe a promotional initiative to the Health & Wellbeing Group?

Trade courses organised and run by staff. Every 6 - 8 weeks.

Create a folder for every employee to store pdf copies of documents relevant to their employment, including course certificates. Not only would this cut down on costs of printing these documents, it would help employees locate their information.

Rather than individuals having to scan all their documents/certificates manually and store on their U drive, HR maintain a central folder for each employee and file their documents/certificates into these folders. Notifications can be sent out by e-mail with hyperlinks to the folder should the officer want to print them off. This would save on printing and work towards a paperless office.

After the success of the workshops delivered by our tradesmen at the staff conference, thought it would be a good idea if they could produce relevant YouTube tutorials for carrying out basic DIY tasks?

To be able to hire or donate to charity a sum in order to have use of flat bed or van to transport (out of work).

Insurance implications and heavily burdened administrative process.

Develop a social enterprise business - self storage.

Already investigated, not viable.

MHA to develop a ground maintenance social enterprise service. At present the contract is held

by MCC but there seems to be no plan in place for delivery. Keeping it in house would mean more control and enable a planned programme of works to be developed.

Capacity issues and currently tied in to SLA.

news

Top 10 Engagers

Graham Harvey, Rachal Collins, Emma Assender, Nathan Cook, Claudia Blair, Lorna Selmer, Dean Lannen, Steve Higginson, Mark Winstanley, Ben Hennessy / Emily Townsend.

Expecting some unwanted gifts this Christmas?

Why not sell them on In House on the new buy and sell page? It’s totally free to use and you never know, you may find something you want to buy!

Check out Rob's Blog Read Rob McCracken’s blog to find out more about our new tenancy coaches and how they will be working with our tenants.

Have you got something interesting to share?

Share it with your colleagues and blog about it on In House.

Got an idea which could improve the services we provide Staff Suggestion Scheme or help to make efficiencies? Submit a GEMS form on In House and be in with a chance of winning £50.

GEMS



Looking to plan a staff night out? Then use the social events calendar under 'Staff Room' to help plan your night.

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Spotlight on...

Risk & Business Assurance This time we speak to our Business & Risk Assurance team, Mared Dafydd and Maria Williams.

Originally the Risk & Audit team, our dynamic duo were formed to protect MHA and ensure that we’re providing homes and services with good practice behind us. There have been lots of changes which means that housing associations need to identify risks and difficulties and get a strong handle on risks so that we can move forward and deliver more great housing.

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What’s changed?

Insurance: Has had a lot more input as part of Mared’s role and we’re now more aware of what we need to insure. Insurance covers all manner of things including:

Our motor fleet

This works in the same way as a regular motor policy, so we need to report points.

Engineering Combined Stair Lifts

Playgrounds

Pressure Boilers

Hired Plant

IT

Laptops

Tablets

Mobiles

Property Owners Combined Covers our properties, including our leaseholders'properties against:

Subsidence

Escape of water

Fire

We're also covered for Employers & Public Liability and Professional Indemmity - covering us when we provide a service from Work & Skills Wise to boiler instalations. We're even insured for acts of John Directors & Officers Liability - which covers MHA for claims that may arise during the course of our work.

We spend almost

£200k on insurance each year.

Disaster Recovery: We now have a working group dedicated to maintaining our business continuity – that is keeping the business operating in the event of a serious incident. The group looks at scenarios and tests to see how we and our processes work in a crisis.

Audit: We’re getting audited regularly by Service Matters and it’s a positive process whether we have recommendations or not. Any actions that come out of an audit are great pointers in improving what we do. But it’s not just down to external auditors, we need you to report anything amiss, too. We’ll be launching the Don’t Walk By campaign soon and this will give you the opportunity to spot and share anything that you think needs to be addressed.

What’s coming up?

Data Protection: We’re keeping a close eye on Data Protection – there are new regulations coming in 2018 and we’ll need to be aware of: • Keeping people’s data safe • Managing personal and sensitive data – there’ll be training on this coming soon!

• Being open about what we use people’s data for • Cyber security • Not unlawfully sharing data Value for Money: We’ll be asked to look at how much value we provide for the money that we generate and we’ll be looking at what VfM means to you and our stakeholders Welsh Language Regulations: New regulations on providing options to speak in Welsh will be with us this time next year. We’ll be looking at ways to proactively provide services in Welsh including providing Welsh language training for staff members.

If you have any questions, queries or would like to know more – give Mared or Maria a shout!

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The Income

What do we do?

As a team our focus is on collecting rent arrears. Revenue from rent is one of the main income streams that MHA has.

However, collecting rent arrears is not just black and white.

We feel around 75% of the tenants who are in arrears engage with us to let us work with them to improve their situation and decrease their arrears. Then there’s the 25% who are very hard to engage with which unfortunately makes it difficult to improve their situation.

In recent years we have had the challenges of Welfare Reform and will continue to do so for years to come. A recent challenge has been the Benefit Cap which has meant some tenants are losing from £1 off their Housing Benefit to up to £95 per week. This is having a dramatic effect on tenants who are already coping with debts, low income and other difficult circumstances.

We see more and more tenants who can’t pay rather than won’t pay. We are seeing a rise in debt due to pay day loans, loan sharks and buy as you view, because of this rent is not always a priority for some tenants and we are trying to reintroduce a rent first culture.

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What’s our approach to rent arrears?

Other areas of work we undertake

We have a rent arrears management procedure (you can find this on In House) that gives us guidance on what steps are next when dealing with tenants in arrears.

• We also work with leaseholders to make sure their bills are paid and up to date • We also deal with recharges on tenants accounts • We have Anthony who deals with former tenants arrears • & so much more!

We try to build relationships with our tenants to identify what their circumstances are, including their income and expenditure. We ensure that tenants are receiving all the benefits they are entitled too, where necessary.

We work closely with the Inclusion Team to support tenants into work, training or education and refer for specialist benefit/debt advice from the Moneywise officers.

Hopefully the tenants engage with us and make an agreement to reduce their arrears and accept any support they need to sustain their tenancy. However, sometimes this isn’t the case and this is where we would follow the rent arrears procedure and the pre-action protocol before applying to court for a possession order.

This role can be very challenging but the positives definitely outweigh the negatives, as the majority of the time we are supporting tenants to stay in their homes and make rent their number one priority as well as building trusting relationships along the way.

e Team Meet The Team

Spotlight on Anne Description • Age: 40 • Single mum of 2 daughters • Works a low paid job

Arrears

Anne’s arrears are £600 and she is paying a monthly direct debit to cover her rent and reduce her arrears.

Finances and Actions

Clayton Charles

Alison Bromham

Claire Osman

Manager

Abergavenny

01495 761141

01495 761153

Caldicot (Job shares with Helen.

Works Weds, Thurs, Fri.)

01495 761097

Kerris Winter

Cally McCarthy

Helen Screen

Clydach, Gilwern, Llanelly Hill, Raglan, Goytre, Little Mill, Usk

Mardy, Abergavenny

Caldicot

01495 761004

(Job shares with Claire.

Works Mon & Tues.)

01495 767194

01495 761099

Anne was served with a Notice of Seeking Possession, what this meant was explained in detail and a new arrangement made, based on rent debit and budget. A food voucher was provided and an application made to the hardship fund, £50 of Asda vouchers were granted to help immediately. A referral was made to Moneywise and Tenancy Support and Anne engaged well. Moneywise have got her a water reduction through HelpU and advised on a Debt Relief Order.

Lifestyle

Anne is a mother of two daughters who works a low paid job at a school. Anne works hard but finds unexpected bills hard to deal with. She also suffers with her mental health.

She pays her rent by direct debit and when her Housing Benefit stopped due to a nondependant charge, she fell into arrears.

Jessie O’Connell

Dean Phillips

Anthony 0’Connell

Chepstow

Monmouth

Former Tenant Arrears

01495 767172

01495 761163

01495 761100

Anne took the news of her arrears badly, her mental health became worse and she was very upset. Her Income Officer supported her at this time.

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OUR ADVENTURE MHA STAFF CONFERENCE 2016

#EpicJourney

On October 6th our staff conference #epicjourney took place at Chepstow Racecourse. We wanted to give staff a more relaxed approach to the conference with a well-being element and a variety of activities.

Tori James

Nicky Grist

Try a Trade

We kicked off the day with inspirational guest speaker Tori James who took us on her own epic journey up Mount Everest.

Tori inspired a lot of people by talking through her amazing, scary, most dangerous climb up Everest, the highest mountain in the world, at 8,850 meters. Tori became the first Welsh woman and youngest British female to reach the summit of Everest in 2007. Tori shared “the lessons I’ve learnt along the way are not from physically reaching the top, but from the journey, both on and off the mountain. I believe the secret of success is being passionate about things you do in your life, it’s about thorough planning and never giving up even when the going gets tough. All you need is self-belief and a can-do attitude.”

Our second guest speaker Nicky Grist - a Welsh former rally codriver, born in Ebbw Vale. His factory team career in the World Rally Championship lasted from 1993 to 2002. He won 21 rallies with more than one driver. Grist's first WRC win was in the Rally Argentina in 1993 with Juha Kankkunen, who at that time was a three time WRC champion.

Grist and Kankkunen went on to win the 1993 WRC championship with Toyota. Grist stayed as Kankkunen's co-driver until 1997 when he joined Colin McRae with the 555 Subaru World Rally Team.

These workshops went down a storm and were fully booked within minutes;

Tori was impressed with our team names and theme for the day with the challenge to climb Everest by winning points from various workshops, games and activities throughout the day.

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Breakout Sessions From climbing wall, workshops, games room and lego building, staff got to spend time earning their points through various activities and workshops to help their team reach the summit!

Teams were extremely competitive but the winning team was The Crimson Crevasses.

Special thanks to: Gareth Denley – Sparks Fly Andrew Matthews – Feeling Chipper Gareth Park – Don’t be drip

Lunch – Well what can we say!

Chepstow Racecourse have apologised for the poor quality of service we received on the day and have offered a complimentary race day ticket for every member of staff, please see page 4 for further details and dates.

Relaxation Patrena Talbot and Michael Legge worked the magic relaxing staff with back, neck and shoulder massages, reflexology and Indian head massage.

We need your help!

We'd really welcome your suggestions and thoughts on guest speakers for the next conference or if you would like to be involved with helping to organise, please get in touch with Louise Davies.

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Be safe at home

this Christmas!

The Christmas and the New Year celebrations are upon us, meaning lots of fun and laughter with friends and family. However, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging you to take extra care during your festive and New Year celebrations, as there are more accidental fires in South Wales in the lead up to and over the Christmas season than any other time of year.

During the festive season, people will have decorations, naked flames, use more electrical appliances, have more visitors and may be smoking and drinking alcohol at home.

Key festive fire safety points: • Test your smoke alarms each week and never remove batteries to use in children’s toys • Ensure all plugs are fitted with the correct fuses, the plugs are wired correctly and that the wiring is not worn or damaged in any way • Do not overload electrical sockets • Always switch Christmas lights off and unplug them when they are not being used, and before going out or to bed • Never leave cooking unattended – always turn off the cooker when you leave the kitchen • Do not cook when intoxicated – alcohol can seriously affect your judgement 28

• Do not use decorative lights designed for use indoors outside, even if they appear sheltered from the weather • Never leave burning candles unattended or placed near the Christmas tree, furniture or curtains • Decorations burn very easily – never attach them to lights or heaters • Check that any cigarettes have been completely stubbed out • Keep Christmas cards, stockings, presents, decorations and discarded wrapping paper well away from open fireplaces and heaters • Keep real Christmas trees away from fires and other heat sources as they are highly combustible, particularly as they dry out • Plan an escape route in the event of a fire and make sure all guests know where the door and window keys are kept

We're All Different The month of December is a time of many religious celebrations. Below are just a few of the different festivals celebrated around the world.

Festival of Lights

Chanukah, or Hanukkah, lasts for eight days, beginning on the 25th of the Hebrew month Kislev (November - December).

It celebrates the victory of Judah the Maccabee over the Syrian tyrant Antiochus over 2,100 years ago.

In 165BC, after three years of war, Judah won a decisive victory over the Syrians and returned with his followers to Jerusalem to reclaim the Temple. On their return, they could find only one small cruse of oil, enough to last one day. But when they lit the temple menorah with it, a miracle occurred and the menorah burned for eight days.

Since then, the Jewish people celebrated the success of the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil. Hanukkah means “dedication.”

Wicca

The annual Tree Festival, which had long been celebrated in Northern Europe before the Christian era, is still celebrated among nature-based faiths such as Wicca.

Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is a cultural festival during which African Americans celebrate and reflect upon their heritage as the products of two worlds. It begins on the 26th December and lasts for seven days. Kwanzaa is a Kiswahili word meaning “the first fruits of the harvest.”

Hindu

The 25th December is also considered to be the birthday of the Hindu god, Krishna, as well as Mithra, the Greek god of light.

Bodhi Day

Bodhi Day is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni), experienced enlightenment, also known as Bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali. According to tradition, Siddhartha had recently forsaken years of extreme ascetic practices and resolved to sit under a peepal tree and simply meditate until he found the root of suffering, and how to liberate oneself from it.

Yule

Yule or Yuletide ("Yule time") is a festival observed by the historical Germanic peoples, later undergoing Christianised reformulation resulting in the now better known Christmastide.

The earliest references to Yule are by way of indigenous Germanic month names Ærra Jéola (Before Yule) or Jiuli and Æftera Jéola (After Yule). Scholars have connected the celebration to the Wild Hunt, the god Odin and the pagan Anglo-Saxon Mōdraniht.

Terms with an etymological equivalent to Yule are not only used in the Nordic countries for Christmas with its religious rites, but also for the holidays of this season. Yule is also used to a lesser extent in English speaking countries to refer to Christmas. Present day Christmas customs such as the Yule log, Yule goat, Yule boar, Yule singing, and others stem from the original pagan Yule. A number of Neopagans have introduced their own rites.

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A M T S I R H C

30

AS PARTY

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Send us a pic of your pet!

The pets will be published in the next edition and you could win a £10 High Street Voucher.

Email Louise Davies with a pic of your pet and tell us a little bit about them.

Visit the ‘Staff Room’ area on

Gus Emily Townsend

Gus is very playful and bouncy.

His favourite hobbies include eating stones and slippers, swimming in the canal, doing backflips and running around in circles.

Beau Jill Morgan

This is Beau Morgan, the new addition to the Morgan family.

She likes to eat any plant that has been carefully planted and she shouldn’t be eating.

Runs around like a wind-up toy and dive bombs at you to give you a kiss.

Has a quirky little walk (usually walks side ways).

Loves a cwtch, and tends to sleeps where she falls.

to vote for the cutest pet.

Lilly Karren Davies

Hoxton Sarah Needs

This is Lilly, she is very gentle and runs away from anything scary... like cats!

Hoxton was a stray kitten who decided to adopt me about 3 months ago.

She thinks she is a lap dog even though she weighs 4 ½ stone.

He's a cheeky playful chap who has lots of energy and character.

She can hear a packet of crisps being opening from 6 miles away but still doesn’t hear me scold her for trying to pinch my sons sweeties!

One of his favourite things to do besides stealing my food, is to ambush me at every opportunity.

Leo Lauren Lewis

Leo is a 10 week old Cavalier/ Springer.

He likes chasing the cat, dressing up and cwtching his rabbit.

He has been a total gem and has definitely become part of the family.

Congratulations to Sookie (and her owner Mark Winstanley) on winning October’s Pet Corner competition!

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CuIsine Corner

Welcome to Cuisine Corner! We all love food and it’s always good to get some inspiration from others about what to cook and where to go. Each edition, we want some tantalisingly tasty, tried and tested recipes and reviews to feature in Cuisine Corner.

RECIPE

Christmas team lunches (2015), what was a cracker and what was the culinary equivalent of ropey old sprouts...

Engagement & Inclusion

Neighbourhoods

Corporate Services

The Yew Tree, Pontypool

The Kings Head, Usk

The Little Crown, Wainfelin

Food: The Italian menu was lovely, the soup came out hot as lava and took two days to cool.

Food: Food was bad.

Atmosphere: Cosy and warm. It did get a little friendly when larger groups were sat, but good fun.

A ropey old sprout!

Food: Good, the usual festive offerings of turkey, salmon or beef. Service was slow with long waits between main course and pudding.

A festive treat!

Assets & Facilities The Kings Head, Usk Food: While the portions were generous, the food wasn’t great. The highlight was the chocolate orange fondant pudding but it wasn’t to everyone’s taste.

Atmosphere: The food was too disappointing to provide any festive cheer.

A ropey old sprout!

Housing & Communities Managers The Yew Tree, Pontypool Food: Gorgeous! Pollo della Nonna (Grandma’s Chicken) was amazing and the Tiramisu can’t be ignored.

Massive portions mean you get a feed like your Nana would give you!

Atmosphere: Lovely!

A Christmas cracker!

Atmosphere: Okay, but would have improved with good food.

Homesearch & ASB The Yew Tree, Pontypool Food: Lush – they offer lots of options – the salmon is amazing and comes with Mediterranean vegetables.

The vegetarian options are delicious too. Portions are massive and you will leave stuffed!

Atmosphere: Cosy and friendly.

A Christmas cracker!

Capsel The Carpenters Arms, Llandegfeth Food: Massive portions of really great food – we couldn’t finish half of our plates. Service was slow at times though, but the staff were really lovely.

Atmosphere: Great, festive and Christmassy with the open fire blazing!

A festive treat!

Trades Wetherspoons across the county Food: Mostly fluid, but definitely hearty pub grub.

A festive treat!

Atmosphere: Paper party hats and being wedged in like pigs in blankets made for a fun visit.

A festive treat!

CSA The Horseshoe, Mamhilad Food: Fabulous! They’re very accommodating and opened the pub out of hours so that we could eat after the office closed.

Atmosphere: Lovely, although some background music was wanting.

A festive treat!

DSO Work Schedulers The Hall Inn, Gwehelog Food: Really good food from a wide menu of at least five options for mains and desserts, including your traditional Christmas favourites.

Atmosphere: It’s a proper old pub, so the atmosphere was extremely festive.

A festive treat!

Turkey Soup

Ingredients • 75g long - grain wild rice • 3 tbsp vegetable oil • 225g leeks, thinly sliced • 225g carrots, chopped • 3 sticks celery, sliced • 2 tbsp tomato puree • 3 ½ pints turkey stock • 225g cooked turkey, cut into strips • Salt & pepper to taste Method • Put the rice into a pan of cold salted water, bring to the boil and simmer for 30 minutes or until tender. Drain.

• Meanwhile, heat the oil in a pan and cook the onions, carrots, leeks and celery for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the tomato puree and cook for 1 minute.

• Add the stock and season to taste with salt and pepper, bring to the boil. Simmer for 20 minutes.

• Add the drained rice and the turkey and heat through. Serve.

If you would like to share your ideas with us, then please get in touch with the Corporate Services Team.

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Christmas Eve Box Every year my daughter nags and nags to open just one present early so the Christmas Eve box idea is perfect.

You can get free shoe boxes from a shoe shop, fill it with goodies and then wrap it up to give to your children on Christmas Eve. I love this tradition in my home and it seems to be getting more and more popular! It may sound expensive but it doesn’t have to be, plus it’s so worth it when you see their little faces light up.

What should go in a Christmas Eve box?

e e

You can put anything you like in your child’s box, there are endless ideas and they don’t even have to be new or expensive. Most charity shops sell bits and bobs you can fill your box up with so you don’t need to worry about breaking the bank.

Slippers & Pyjamas I always try and include slippers and pyjamas in Jessica’s Christmas box as it’s always nice after a warm bath to snuggle up in some soft fresh jammies.

Christmas Book The Works website often do 10 books for £10 including Christmas books for all ages from ‘The Grinch’ to ‘A Christmas Carol’ and everything in between.

Magic Key Most new houses these days don’t have fireplaces, so kids can get quite worried about how Santa will get in to leave them their presents. But don’t fear you can now buy a magic key, or even make your own by simply using an old key, some ribbon and a gift tag. This way Santa won’t need to squeeze through the letterbox!

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Reindeer Food Sprinkle on the lawn at night the moon will make it sparkle bright. As Santa’s reindeer fly and roam this will guide them to your home! My daughter absolutely loves this idea, we do this every year and it’s so simple to make!

All you need are oats, glitter, clear food bag & ribbon.

Simply mix together dry oats, glitter and anything else sparkly you can get your hands on. Then put into a clear food bag and tie it up using some pretty ribbon.

Hot Chocolate and Marshmallows Curling up in a blanket with a warm mug in hand and a Christmas film on: it’s like heaven. I buy Christmas cups from Poundland, fill them up with a hot chocolate sachet, marshmallows and a candy cane (for a yummy minty flavour).

A Classic Christmas Film/ Christmas activity pack Christmas Eve wouldn’t be Christmas Eve without a classic Christmas film. If like me you have a very young child who won’t sit through a film then a Christmas activity pack is perfect, they can sit quietly and enjoy colouring and sticking while you and the older kids settle down to watch a film.

A Cuddly Toy It wouldn’t really be a Christmas Eve box without a special Christmas teddy! You don’t need to spend a fortune on these, you can simply pick one up from a local charity shop or 99p shop.

A Letter from Santa Last but certainly not least a letter from Santa! You can get these for free either by writing to him before the 9th of December using the Royal Mail address or by simply printing one. Either way, this idea is guaranteed to bring magic into your home this Christmas.

PRESS RELEASES

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