At the Heart Autumn 2017

Magazine for tenants and leaseholders Autumn 2017

Blooming lovely!

Housing in Bloom 2017 results – Feast your eyes on Havering's finest flowers See pages 14-15

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At The Heart Autumn 2017

Contact us You can report, apply and pay for a variety of housing services online.

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Dear residents Welcome to the Autumn 2017 edition of At the Heart which I hope you will find interesting and informative.

Firstly may I thank all of you who have returned your Tenant’s Survey, around 2,000 households have done so and if you still haven’t returned yours it isn’t too late so do send it in as soon as possible.

The replies you send in are carefully analysed by an external company which produces a report for the Council, highlighting the things you think we do well and, equally importantly, telling us where we need to improve.

For each of those areas a Service Improvement Plan is prepared, staff given appropriate training and new processes put in place to make the changes you want to see to your Housing Service.

Good news August saw the contractors finish work on new homes that we have built in Poplar Street, Romford on the site of the former Lombard Court sheltered housing scheme.

I’ve visited these new homes myself and they are very impressive. Some are for affordable rent, and have already been let to Havering residents who have lived in the borough a minimum of six years, and some are for sale through the Low Cost Home Ownership scheme which helps Havering residents get a foot on the housing ladder.

More details are at www.havering.gov.uk/LombardCourt .

The Housing Regeneration Programme continues to proceed at a good pace. The 51 organisations that expressed interest in working with us to deliver this ambitious housing programme has been narrowed down to three.

Discussions with those three are continuing and we expect Cabinet to take a decision on which one will be our partner in the Joint Venture Company early in 2018 with the first demolition work starting at the end of that year.

August also saw the completion of the Sapphire Jubilee Community Centre in Collier Row. The contractors and the Housing Services Project Delivery Team did an excellent job with building starting in May and finished by the end of August to provide an excellent carbon neutral community centre and a play area for children under 10-years-old.

Events As always a lot of work has been done this summer by the Community Engagement Team with a programme of Family Fun Days, barbecues and afternoon teas in our sheltered housing schemes and the Housing in Bloom competition which saw a record number of entries this year.

All of these activities are celebrated in this edition of At the Heart so do enjoy reading about them and make a note to come along to the next event – details are at www.havering.gov.uk/HousingEvents.

Councillor Damian White Deputy Leader of Havering Council and Cabinet Member for Housing

If you want to meet Councillor White to discuss a housing issue please book to attend one of his surgeries at www.havering.gov.uk/HousingSurgeries or complete the form on page 31 of At the Heart.

Published by Havering Council | Job no. 005218 Autumn 2017

www.havering.gov.uk

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Court backs Council to force entry on Gas Safety Havering Council has received backing from Barkingside Magistrates Court to force entry to properties where Gas Safety Certificates have not been produced.

For the first time Havering Council has sought legal powers to ensure gas safety checks are complete with five warrants of entry being granted by the court.

At a hearing on Tuesday 01 August 2017 Barkingside Magistrates granted the warrants which would allow Havering Council to force entry to the premises.

On the day the warrants were to be served four out of the five arranged access so the gas safety checks could be carried out.

Forced entry took place at 39 Halesworth Road, Harold Hill

so a gas safety check could take place.

Deputy Leader of Havering Council and Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Damian White, said: “The Council conducts annual gas safety checks on all of its properties with tenants required to allow access and leaseholders required to provide a current Gas Safety Certificate.

“These measures are to make sure the gas appliances are safe for the residents involved and their neighbours and we are not prepared to compromise on this.

“For the first time we have applied to the Court for warrants of entry as five tenants had repeatedly failed to allow us access and we are pleased that Barkingside Magistrates granted those warrants.

“Having to apply for these warrants has meant extra expense for those tenants as Court costs will be added to their rent accounts.

“Where we forced entry the cost of replacement locks will also be charged to the tenant making it a very expensive day for them.“It is far better if access is given when a gas safety check is due to avoid such costs or forced entry in future.”

More info www.havering.gov.uk/GasSafety

Senior manager changes There have been some changes in the senior managers within Housing Services.

Kevin Hazlewood has been appointed Acting Assistant Director of Housing for an initial six-month period.

Kevin, who was the Property and Land Services Manager, will be responsible for the day-to-day running of Housing Services leaving Neil Stubbings to focus on the Housing Regeneration programme in his new role as Regeneration Programme Director.

Filling Kevin’s vacancy is Ian Brady who has been appointed the Interim Property and Land Services Manager where he will oversee repairs and other property related issues.

Tenancy Sustainment Services Manager, Peter Doherty, leaves Havering Council in September.

A replacement Tenancy Sustainment Manager will be recruited.

Boiling eggs cause fire alerts In July, we had fire alerts at both Cottons Court and Holsworthy House after residents put eggs on to boil and then forgot about the pan, one resident even went out leaving the pan on the stove.

Luckily in both cases when the water had boiled away and the pans started to burn the heat sensors sent out an alarm. London Fire Brigade attended and the damage was contained just to the one flat in each case.

It was mainly smoke damage but in one flat the front door was also damaged.

Please remember if you start cooking to keep checking all is ok and do check the stove before you go out to make sure all the burners and the oven are off.

More info www.havering.gov.uk/FireSafety

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At The Heart Autumn 2017

Know

A packed house at Cottons Court heard fire safety advice from Firefighter Nicholas Gunn

Following the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower, Havering Council Housing Services has been doing a lot of work on fire safety to minimise the risk of a major fire in the borough’s housing stock.

The first week of September saw five days of partnership events with crews from different fire stations in Havering joining council officers at: • Napier House and New Plymouth House in Rainham Harry, age six and Alfie, age seven, from Collier Row discover what it is like to ride in a fire engine

• The PETRA TMO estate in Hornchurch • Highfield Towers in Collier Row • Serena, Solar and Sunrise sheltered housing scheme in Hornchurch • Royal Jubilee Court in Gidea Park and

PETRA TMO Manager, Caroline Edwards and Board Chair, Jan Davis, in firefighting mode

• Cottons Court and Fambridge Court in Romford

to provide fire safety advice, check smoke detectors and help plan emergency access routes.

All the high rise blocks, hostels and sheltered housing schemes had a routine, independent fire risk assessment this summer.

As always with these inspections, which happen every two years, a report is provided by the independent experts and appropriate action taken on any issues they raise.

www.havering.gov.uk

your fire safety Fire paths vehicles parked on fire paths at Highfield Towers, Collier Row

There are still some residents who put their own, their families and their neighbours’ lives at risk by parking on fire access routes.

Such selfish parking will be tackled with owners facing Fixed Penalty Notices and, if they persist, they run the risk of their vehicles being removed with the cost of removal and storage being charged back to them.

Fire access routes at Kipling Towers, Harold Hill blocked by vehicles

Clutter by blockcan cost lives routes o ing fire exit – just ker pathways ep them clear!

Clear the clutter Items left in communal areas such as stairwells, landings and corridors, can cause an obstruction during an emergency evacuation and can hinder emergency services getting access.

ur bike tos o y g in in Cha or railing s r e t is n ban ous – just is dangerit! don’t do

All tenants and leaseholders have been sent a letter by the Deputy Leader of Havering Council and Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Damian White, asking them to remove any ck Bikes blo tes. u ro it of their property in communal ex fire in They get areas. f the the way o g n elderly usi This includes bikes, pushchairs, bannisters ts n welcome mats, plants, barbecues and re a p d n a ren’s with child garden furniture. ies, so 5133 C

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At The Heart Autumn 2017

Housing Regeneration Programme

Moving numbers By 1 September 2017 a total of 160 households had moved to new homes as part of the Housing Regeneration Programme.

Look out for the van As part of our continuing commitment to be available to residents Havering Council Housing Services has invested in a new vehicle which will be visiting the different Housing Regeneration Programme sites.

On board when it visits your area will be some of the specialist officers involved in providing you information and answering any questions you may have.

More info www.havering.gov.uk/HousingRegeneration

Keep paying the rent If you are on one of the sites being regenerated it is important that you continue paying your rent on time.

If your rent arrears build up then you face the normal eviction process that applies to any tenant with rent arrears.

If you are evicted because of arrears then you may be deemed to have made yourself intentionally homeless which means you: will not be rehoused by Havering Council will not be rehoused by any other local authority in the country will not receive the Home Loss Payment will not receive Disturbance Payments will have court costs added to the money you owe the Council If you need financial advice please contact the Housing Services Money Advice Team.

• • • • •

More info www.havering.gov.uk/MoneyAdvice

Home Loss Payment increase The Government has increased the Home Loss Payment so that anyone moving through the Housing Regeneration Programme after Saturday 30 September will receive £6,100. This replaces the £5,800 figure which applied up to that date.

Havering Council will deduct from that sum any rent arrears or other charges due to them and then pay you the balance.

Of that total 101 were from general needs properties and 59 from sheltered housing.Most of the moves have been made on the first match as the information on the Decant Assessment Form has allowed good matches to be made that meet individual’s needs.

Check out news for your area The latest news and information about the Housing Regeneration Programme, including details of forthcoming Residents’ Open Meetings can be found online.

Each regeneration area has its own web page and a Lead Officer in the Community Engagement Team who can answer any questions regarding that estate: Chippenham Road, Farnham Road and Hilldene Avenue www.havering.gov.uk/Hilldene Julieann.Brewster@havering.gov.uk DELTA TMO estate www.havering.gov.uk/DeltaTMO Joanne.Mahony@havering.gov.uk Maygreen Crescent and Park Lane www.havering.gov.uk/MaygreenEstate Kimberly.Miller@havering.gov.uk Oldchurch Gardens www.havering.gov.uk/OldchurchGardens Denise.Kelly@havering.gov.uk Napier House and New Plymouth House www.havering.gov.uk/NapierandNewPlymouth John.Bloss@havering.gov.uk Waterloo Estate www.havering.gov.uk/WaterlooEstate John.Bloss@havering.gov.uk and Julieann.Brewster@havering.gov.uk Sheltered Housing Schemes www.havering.gov.uk/ShelteredHousingDevelopment Chelsea.Potts@havering.gov.uk Leaseholders and freeholders Ian.Nolan@havering.gov.uk

• • • • • • • •

More info www.havering.gov.uk/HousingRegeneration

www.havering.gov.uk

Housing Regeneration Programme

Local Lettings Plan Consultation A revised version of the Local Lettings Plan for the Housing Regeneration Programme has now been produced and is subject to a formal consultation which will end at midnight on Tuesday 19 December 2017.

The Local Lettings Plan will form part of the Council’s overall statutory Housing Allocation Policies, and be accompanied by a series of information documents to be published by the Council over the forthcoming weeks together forming an overall Regeneration Pack.

Non Council tenants A specific Information Pack for leaseholders and freeholders has been developed to provide them with information about the offer available from Havering Council when they sell their property as part of the Housing Regeneration Programme.

The Local Lettings Plan, which applies only to Council secure (and introductory) tenants, has been developed following the informal consultation on the first six versions which have taken place since November 2016 and takes on board comments made by residents.

There will be a total of eight guides published on the web site as they become available:

The Council will also be publishing a non-statutory Decant and Possession Policy and Procedure which will set out the principles and procedures guiding the Council’s decant process in due course.

• Local Lettings Plan

This includes the legal possession process that will be followed if there are still tenants living in properties which are to be developed or where offers of accommodation are refused.

• Information for Property Owners

The first three sites, which are Waterloo Estate in Romford, Napier House and New Plymouth House in Rainham and the Serena, Solar and Sunrise sheltered housing scheme in Hornchurch, will need to be empty by late summer 2018.

• Rehousing Options for Private tenants

• Details of Regeneration Scheme •R egeneration Decant and Possession Procedure • Rehousing Options for Non-secure tenants • Home Loss and Disturbance Payments • Right-to-Buy information

More info www.havering.gov.uk/HousingRegeneration

Meeting you on the estate Housing Regeneration Programme Surgeries are being held at: 1. Waterloo estate in Romford 2. Napier House and New Plymouth House in Rainham 3. Maygreen Crescent and Park Lane in Hornchurch 4. Oldchurch Gardens in Romford There is a rota so that each estate gets visited by: 1 Community Engagement Officers on Tuesdays 2. Tenancy Sustainment Officers on Wednesdays 3. Housing Regeneration Officers on Thursdays There will be at least one of those teams on each estate each week so if you have any questions pop along and see them between 10am and 3pm.

Leaflets have been distributed with dates on for each team or you can check for details at the web page for your estate.

Out of borough moves Residents wishing to move to new homes outside Havering depend on the council where they want to move to having suitable properties available for them.

Making such moves is not easy and while the Housing Regeneration Officers will do their best to help there is no guarantee that such a move can be achieved.

If you want to make such a move you we will help you complete the housing application form for the new council and advise what information you need to gather to make your case as strong as possible.

You will still be entitled to relevant Home Loss and Disturbance Payments if you move out of borough but Downsizing Incentive payments will not be made.

Despite the difficulty in making such out of borough moves we have enjoyed some successes including:

A Napier House tenant moving to sheltered housing in Sidcup, • Kent to be closer to her family • A Napier House tenant moving to Thurrock • A Mayfield Crescent tenant moving to Bognor Regis in Sussex and a sheltered housing tenant being offered sheltered • housing in Rochford, Essex.

More info housingregeneration@havering.gov.uk

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At The Heart Autumn 2017

Progress report on new homes Havering Council is looking to use former garage sites and other under-utilised land to build new homes for Havering residents.

This “infill programme” will provide an extra 500 new properties as part of the Council’s overall programme, which will see around 3,500 new Council homes built in the borough.

How do I apply for one of these homes?

If you are interested in one of the shared ownership properties on any of these sites you can register your interest at SharedOwnership@havering.gov.uk If you live on one of the Housing Regeneration Programme estates please amend your Decant Assessment Form by emailing HousingRegeneration@havering.gov.uk.

Lombard Court, Romford Nine new homes on the site of the former Lombard Court sheltered housing scheme in Poplar Street, Romford have been completed two months ahead of time.

People are now moving in to the two two-bedroom houses and two three-bedroom houses for affordable rent and offers are being sought for the two two-bedroom houses and two three-bedroom houses for Low Cost Home Ownership (LCHO).

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/LombardCourt

Coleridge Road and Tennyson Road, Harold Hill Work to build a terrace of five three-bedroom houses for shared ownership and a two-bedroom bungalow for rent to Council tenants on the former Diana Princess of Wales Hostel, in Harold Hill has now been completed.

Throughout the work Housing Services Community Engagement Officer, Luke Speller, is the point of contact for residents.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/ColeridgeRoad

Clayfield Close, Cranham Work is progressing well on building 12 new Council properties which include two two-bedroom flats for affordable rent and three two-bedroom houses and seven three-bedroom houses for Low Cost Home Ownership.

A water holding tank on the site will regulate the flow of surface water into nearby drainage ditches.

The properties are due for completion in November 2017.

The Residents’ Group has been meeting regularly to discuss progress on the scheme.

Throughout the work Housing Services Community Engagement Officer, Denise Kelly, is the point of contact for residents.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/ClayfieldClose

www.havering.gov.uk

Mirfield Close, Harold Hill

Sopwith Close, Hornchurch Work continues on the 18 new homes being built to create Sopwith Close, off Kilmartin Way, Elm Park on part of the site of the former RAF Hornchurch base.

The scheme includes six three-bedroom homes and seven two-bedroom homes for affordable rent and two three-bedroom houses and three two-bedroom homes for Low Cost Home Ownership (LCHO).

Work is on schedule to complete five three-bedroom houses for affordable rent on this former garage site with lettings expected around February 2018.

There will also be a total of 84 parking spaces on the site, an increase of 39 on existing provision.

The new development, which is off Dewsbury Road, will be called Mirfield Close as Mirfield is a town in the Dewsbury parish.

Discussions are taking place regarding the entrance from Sopwith Close to see what safety measures can be installed.

Throughout the work Housing Services Community Engagement Officer, Kimberly Miller, is the point of contact for residents.

Throughout the work Housing Services Community Engagement Officer, Kimberly Miller, is the point of contact for residents.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/MirfieldClose

The properties are due for completion in January 2018.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/SopwithClose

Briar Road, Harold Hill Work is well underway to build 36 one-bedroom and two-bedroom flats for rent; 10 two-bedroom and three-bedroom houses for sale through Shared Ownership and up to four shop units.

Work should be completed by spring 2019.

Throughout the work Housing Services Community Engagement Officer, Luke Speller, is the point of contact for residents.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/BriarRoad

White Hart Lane, Collier Row Planning applications for the two sites in White Hart Lane, where the Council is proposing to build 24 new homes on two sites, have been approved.

The two proposed sites are: • the land behind Cumberland House, Devon House, Durham House and Kent House • the garage area behind the shops at 37 – 59 White Hart Lane Tenders are now being sought and when a contractor is appointed a meeting will be held with residents to discuss the work programme.

A Residents’ Group will also be set up, if you wish to be a member of that group please email your details to Joanne Mahony.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/WhiteHartLane

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At The Heart Autumn 2017

s y f i l m ig y a a F D F un Harold Hill “Pedal faster!” is the message from Community Engagement Officer Kimberly Miller as the smoothie bike produces another delicious drink

Despite drizzle, wind and rain eight Family Fun Days were held by the Housing Services Community Engagement Team during the school summer holidays with hundreds of local residents coming along to join in the free fun and games.

Havering Adult College did healthy eating demonstrations, the Youth Bus offered a series of art and craft activities and the smoothie bike was put to good use producing drinks full of fruity goodness.

Information and advice from a range of Council services and other agencies was also available at each event.

The Family Fun Days were held at: • Bower Park School, Collier Row

Arts and crafts on the Youth Bus proved popular

• Central Park, Harold Hill • Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch • New Zealand Way, Rainham • Macon Way, Cranham • Malan Square, Elm Park •S apphire Jubilee Community Centre, Collier Row

A family picnic in a quiet corner was an integral part of the day for some visitors Designing plates to promote healthy eating was great fun

Collecting balls having had your face painted is more fun than a bouncy castle!

h t e f rain ght of

www.havering.gov.uk

Havering Adult College ran a stand on healthy eating at the Family Fun Days

How many hoops can you hula at once?

Collier Row

Bonzo the Bear escaped from Fairkytes Arts Centre to join in the Family Fun

It’s a wrap! Healthy eating wraps were enjoyed by this family at Collier Row

Cranham

Care Point offered help, information and advice

All set up and ready to go at the Cranham Family Fun Day

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At The Heart Autumn 2017

Tenant Management Havering has three TMOs (Tenant Management Organisations) which are set up by tenants to run particular estates in the borough.

More info www.havering.gov.uk/TMOs

BETRA TMO

BETRA TMO was formed in 2004 and looks after 13 houses on the Barnstaple Road estate in Harold Hill: • Accrington House • Alcester House • Ampthill House • Angmering House • Cardigan House • Devizes House • Kirkham House

• Oundle House • Radstock House • Southsea House • Stroud House • Thornbury House • Upton House

More info www.betratmo.org

DELTA TMO DELTA TMO manages 276 flats, bungalows and maisonettes in Elvet Avenue and Durham Avenue and four properties in Squirrels Heath Lane in Gidea Park.

New Manager BETRA TMO Manager Lindsey Taylor has moved on to pastures new and has been replaced by Lloyd Edwards who is a familiar face to local residents as he previously worked for BETRA TMO. BETRA TMO Chairman, Ken Howson, said: “Lindsey had been involved with BETRA for nearly 10 years, four of which were as manager. Creating a sense of togetherness during her time as manager she oversaw the regeneration of parking, introducing residents' permits and new parking areas. The amazing events that she put in the hard work to get up and running from our Easter celebrations through to the likes of Halloween and even a visit from Father Christmas himself.

“We wish her all the best in her new ventures, She will be sadly missed in our little corner of Harold Hill but I'm sure she will return for the events and to see the community every once in a while.

“The new manager will be Lindsey's old housing officer Lloyd Edwards, so if you haven't met him yet, make sure you pop into the BETRA office to say hi and have a cuppa.”

More info www.deltatmo.com

PETRA TMO PETRA TMO took over local housing management services for the three tower blocks on the Parkhill and Sunrise Estate on 1 April 2003. The low-rise blocks, which are sheltered housing, remain under the management of Havering Council.

It looks after: 1 – 48 Overstrand House, 1 – 50 Parkview House, 1 – 48 Uphavering House More info http://petratmo.weebly.com

Repair Meetings All three TMO Managers are now having regular quarterly meetings with senior staff from The Breyer Group to discuss repairs issues.

The aim is to address any problems that arise and solve them quickly by agreeing smarter ways of working.

Residents on TMO estates should still report their repairs and maintenance requests in the usual way.

Open Evening remembers Colin A special ceremony at PETRA TMO on Friday 30 June commemorated the contribution made by resident Colin Roast to the success of PETRA TMO. A special plaque on a memorial bench was unveiled at the ceremony which was then followed by PETRA’s annual open evening.

Lift problems Lift

out of order

The lifts at Parkview House, and to a lesser extent at Overstrand House, on the PETRA TMO estate are still causing problems and have been frequently out of order.

One of the problems is finding replacement parts due to the age of the lifts.

Havering Council is looking to see what can be done to make the lift service here more reliable and will be working with the PETRA TMO Board to try and resolve this problem.

www.havering.gov.uk

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t Organisations News New office Work is due to begin on the new DELTA TMO office during December which will replace the existing portable building and provide extra room for the staff.

Improved security

Gardening Club is growing

DELTA TMO Board has paid for a new fence to be installed along part of Durham Avenue to improve security for residents in that area.

Very dissatisfied Dissatisfied Satisfied Very satisfied

A new gardening club has been launched at DELTA TMO and residents are being encouraged to join in and look after the raised bed or green area near where they live.

For more details of how to get involved call in to the office.

Survey shows satisfaction DELTA TMO recently surveyed the 276 households they manage and results from some of the key questions are below.

Mrs Linda Bevan of Mountbatten House and Mrs Margaret (aka Rita) Canning of Durham Avenue each won a £50 gift voucher in the prize draw for residents who returned their surveys.

57% 31%

•T aking everything into account, how satisfied/dissatisfied are you with overall service provided by DELTA TMO? •H ow satisfied are you with the following services that DELTA provides: The way repairs are dealt with 57% 36% 2%

Standard of repairs carried out

by Delta 57% 38%

•H ow much of a problem do you think the following is in our area?

Serious problem

Slight problem

Litter and rubbish 36% 55%

Other crime 50%

29% 2%

Vandalism 50% 43%

Problems from neighbours 67%

24% 2%

2%

Noise from other people

64% 26%

40% 50%

57% 38%

No problem

10%

Caretaking/cleaning estate lobbies/lifts

Lighting levels: stairs/balconies/ walkways

12%

Drug dealing/usage 14% 29%

50%

2%

Graffiti 19% 2% 74%

Racial harassment 81%

2% 5%

5%

Level of lighting in/around estate

Dogs (inc mess)

Parents not taking responsibility for behaviour of children

57% 38%

38% 43%

38% 43%

17%

12%

5%

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At The Heart Autumn 2017

Housing in The Housing in Bloom 2017 competition attracted a record number of entries giving the judges, Denise Kelly, Community Engagement Officer, Mark Jones, Service Unit Manager and James Rose, Parks Development Manager a difficult decision.

But after hours of deliberation they reached their conclusion and at a special awards ceremony at Havering Town Hall the Mayor of Havering, Councillor Linda Van den Hende will be presenting the winners with their certificates.

Each first place also won a £100 shopping gift card, second place winners received £40 gift cards and third place winners £10 gift cards.

Barry Farleigh of Avelon Road won best Hanging Basket or Planter category

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/HousingInBloom

Martyn Cressey of Manor Road won the Best Back Garden category

2017 winners Best Communal Garden 1. Susan Cotterrill and Bernard Murphy, Abbs Cross Lane, Romford.

2. Serena, Solar and Sunrise Sheltered Housing Scheme, Sunrise Avenue, Hornchurch.

3. William Tansley Smith House, Hacton Lane, Hornchurch.

Best Front Garden 1. Barry Farleigh, Avelon Road, Rainham.

2. Hazel Little, Poplar Street, Romford.

3. Chris Bennett, Lulworth Drive, Collier Row, Romford.

Best Back garden 1. Martyn Cressey, Manor Road,Romford.

2. Hazel Little, Poplar Street, Romford.

3. Brenda Driscoll, Chase Cross Road, Romford.

Tallest Sunflower 1. Eve Ndiweni, Sunrise Lodge, Sunrise Avenue, Hornchurch.

2. Sarah Mould, Turpin Avenue, Romford.

Best hanging basket or planter 1. Barry Farleigh, Avelon Road, Rainham.

2. Andrew Roberts,Turpin Road, Romford 3. Brenda Driscoll, Chase Cross Road, Romford

www.havering.gov.uk

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Bloom winners Barry Farleigh of Avelon Road won the Best Front Garden category Eve Ndiweni of Sunrise Lodge, Sunrise Avenue won the Tallest Sunflower category at 10 feet high

Susan Cotterrill and Bernard Murphy of Abbs Cross Lane won the Best Communal Garden category

Get ready now for 2018 competition The long winter months are an ideal time to plan your entries for Housing in Bloom 2018 Key dates for the competition are: Tuesday 1 May 2018 Entries open Friday 31 August 2018 Entries close

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At The Heart Autumn 2017

Money Matters

Sa Sa

Be a

witch and S save

2

Switching your energy company can save you hundreds of pounds each year.

There are lots of ways to save money. All it takes is a bit of

knowledge, and a little time. It is the time factor which often gets in the way of us saving money, but if you can find an hour or two to devote to your finances, you could be saving money and ultimately taking control of your finances.

Here are five helpful tips to get you started.

11.

Review your finances

This is often the fastest way of regaining control of your finances.

Make a list of regular important payments, like rent and Council Tax, energy bills, water bills, or weekly/ monthly payments, and then try to work out where else your money is going. Could you cut back on takeaways for example, or will your TV/Internet supplier be able to add a discount to your bill?

Reviewing your finances will help you to understand what bills to prioritise and where you can cut back.

There are lots of comparison websites (such as Energy Saving Helpline, and U-Switch) which do all of the work for you, so don’t get stuck on an expensive tariff. Once you’ve switched, don’t forget to save energy where possible.

3

Deal with debts

If you are struggling with debt, then dealing with it is really important.

Getting the right debt advice can make such a huge difference to your finances, because it helps you prioritise debts and pay them in an affordable way.

Debt can be worrying and sometimes it can seem easier to ignore it. This is rarely the best strategy because debts can mount up if you don’t pay them and you may be taken to court if you fail to stick to your arrangement.

So take charge of your debt and get the advice you need. Mary Ward Legal Centre offer free to help to Havering residents - to arrange an appointment email incomemgtteam@havering.gov.uk.

www.havering.gov.uk

17

Money Matters

vvy aver 4

Arrears down again The amount of money in outstanding rent arrears dipped below the £1 million mark in August 2017.

The total outstanding at the end of the month was £999,080 (1.77 per cent of total rent income) as the Housing Services Money Advice Team works with tenants in financial difficulties to ensure they are claiming all eligible benefits so they can keep a roof over their heads.

The Tenancy Fraud Team has also been continuing its checks on residents and has now made 25,595 visits to Council tenants which has led to 48 properties being recovered for use by genuine tenants and 31 cases referred for Housing Benefit fraud.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/MoneyAdvice

CLOSING THE D OOR

Maximise your income

Billions of pounds of benefits and tax credits go unclaimed each year, so it might be worth seeing if your household is one of the many missing out.

AUD R F Y C N A N E ON T

There are all sorts of benefits available, and eligibility will depend on your personal circumstances. For example, if you are a disabled person aged 16-64 who doesn’t currently get Personal Independence Payment (or Disability Living Allowance as it was previously) then you could look into claiming it.

If you are a disabled person aged over 65 with care needs (and you are not already getting PIP, DLA, or an equivalent benefit) then you might be eligible for Attendance Allowance. To get advice on benefits email WelfareRightsUnit@havering.gov.uk

5

Warning signs

Help is out there. The key thing is to take action!

The rule is simple. If there is something worrying about your finances, talk to someone about it. So if you are behind on your Council Tax make a call to the Council Tax department to see how they can help. Don’t ignore bills, letters and payment demands. If you are behind on bills like water or energy, talking to your supplier can make a huge difference. Ignoring money warning signs often leads to more charges, which just makes things worse in the long run.

To save money, find some time, take action, and face things head on. Don’t forget to seek advice if you get stuck or you are in a vulnerable situation.

A crackdown on tenancy fraud has seen over 40 homes recovered and saved the Council more than £4 million since autumn 2015.

Havering Council’s tenancy audit teams have visited approximately 24,000 homes, carrying out unscheduled inspections, to find out who exactly is living at a property. This enforcement action together with the recent launch of the Knock Knock awareness campaign is making it even harder for people who cheat the system, meaning more homes for genuine tenants.

Over to you If you know about someone committing tenancy fraud and are able to provide information leading to the Council taking back the property, you can receive a reward of £1,000. Any personal details provided will be treated with the strictest of confidence.

Help us shut out housing fraudsters for good.

#NoJoke

i

www.havering.gov.uk/TenancyFraud

18

At The Heart Autumn 2017

News Round Up News Round Up News Round Up

Feed the 1,000 Havering Council is getting ready to feed one thousand people for free, to highlight the true cost of food waste.

The feed The 1000 event, which takes place on Friday 13 October and Saturday 14 October, at The Brewery, Romford, is being run by the Council with funding from Sainsbury’s as part of its Waste Less Save More campaign.

Over the course of the two days, 1,000 free portions of food will be given away to residents and visitors.

To get involved and eat for free all you need to do is make a pledge at the stall, promising to make one small change to help reduce your food waste at home.

Zero Waste Kitchen Challenge What could you do with an extra £60 a month?

Find out how you can save by taking part in the new fun and interactive Zero Waste Kitchen Challenge run by the Council and funded by Sainsbury’s as part of its Waste Less Save More campaign.

The Havering Waste and Recycling team are offering you a course of three FREE cookery workshops which will include support to help you better plan, cook and store your food including up to £10 worth of food waste prevention kitchen tools.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/lovefood

Participation Panels At its last meeting the Participation Panel members were briefed on the impact of the new homelessness legislation coming into force this autumn and the preparation for Universal Credit being rolled out in Havering.

Housing Demand Services Manager, Beatrice Cingtho-Taylor, explained about the new duties being placed on Councils to provide support and advice for people who face becoming homeless while Income Manager, Janis Robert-Edwards, explained how the expansion of Universal Credit in Havering will impact on people who receive benefits.

Panel members were able to question what was being done and suggest improvements that could be made.

We already have a number of volunteers for each of the panels, who have been given training by TPAS (Tenant Participation Advisory Service) so they can get maximum benefit from taking part.

If you are interested in joining one of the panels, please complete the form on the web page for more details.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/ParticipationPanels

Astra Close to set up Residents’

Association?

Residents in Astra Close, Hornchurch, have been in touch for help setting up a Residents’ Association to represent their views.

A letter has been sent to all residents in the street asking if they wish to get involved and if the majority want such a group we will support it.

If you are interested in setting up a Residents’ Association in your road please let us know.

More info: Denise.Kelly@havering.gov.uk

www.havering.gov.uk

19

News Round Up News Round Up News Round Up

Satisfaction Surveys

Mystery Shopping The latest round of Mystery Shopping saw the Housing Services complaints system being tested. The results of the mystery shop are now being discussed with relevant managers to introduce improvements so that making a complaint is an easier process for tenants and leaseholders.

If you want to join the Mystery Shoppers please fill in the online form.

Housing Services is keen to improve the activities we provide for residents so if you attend one of our meetings or events we are likely to send you a quick survey to find out what you thought about it.

The survey takes about three minutes to complete online if we don’t have your email address we will send you a paper copy and a freepost address to return it to us.

Please do complete the survey so we can take on board your suggestions on how we can get better.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/ MysteryShopper

Annual Survey Thank you to everyone who returned the Annual Tenants’ Survey in September.

More than 2,000 tenants and leaseholders sent their surveys back and we will be analysing the results over the next couple of months.

If you haven’t yet completed your survey please do so now and send it back today!

It’s playtime at St Helen’s Court

Halloween Party should be fun Beware of ghosts, monsters and fearsome pumpkins if you are near the Sapphire Jubilee Community Centre on Friday 27 October between 2pm and 4pm.

The Highview Residents’ Association is taking over the new community centre in Bolberry Road, Collier Row, for its annual Halloween event.

For just £1.50 children can take part in the arts and craft activities, get a spray-on tattoo and a cup cake to decorate as well as a free drink.

We are hoping specialist face painters will be there with some scary Halloween designs and then as they leave the event every child will get a spooky goody bag to take home.

Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult to attend this event.

If you live on the Hillrise Estate book your place at : www.havering.gov.uk/ HousingEvents

Book now for Christmas Party!

Children living in St Helen’s Court, Rainham, had a summer of fun thanks to new play equipment and safety surface installed by Housing Services.

If you are over the age of 55 and live on the Hillrise Estate in Collier Row reserve your place for the Highview Residents’ Association Christmas Party which is being held between 12 noon and 2pm on Friday 15 December 2017.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/ HousingEvents

20

At The Heart Autumn 2017

Job Club successes

What employers want When you’re looking for a job it’s often difficult to know what employers want which is why we are running a free to attend seminar on Thursday 28 September from 10am to 1pm Hornchurch Library, 44 North Street, Hornchurch, RM11 1TB.

Three more people have found work through our Job Clubs in one month.

Among those successes was Peter Merchant who has started work as a street cleaner in the Liverpool Street area.

Peter said: “I am very thankful and grateful for the support I received from the Job Club staff.

“I'm very happy to be in work but I will miss seeing them each week.”

New Job Clubs launched There have been some changes this summer with a new Job Club launching at Hornchurch Library every Thursday and the Collier Row Job Club moving to the North Romford Community Association.

Later this year we expect the Romford Job Club to move to Romford Central Library so look out for the posters and check the web site for the moving date.

Find your local job club Contact the Job Club Team on 07923 054727 or just come along with some ID to any of the below job clubs.

Mardyke Community Centre - Mondays 9am to 12 noon Mardyke Community Centre, South Street, Rainham, RM13 8PJ North Romford Community Association - Tuesdays 10am to 1pm Room 6, North Romford Community Association, Clockhouse Lane, Collier Row, RM5 3QJ Betty Strathern Centre - Wednesdays 10am to 1pm Betty Strathern Centre, 41 Myrtle Road, Harold Hill, Romford, RM3 8XS

Paula Arkell-Waller, from Breyer Group, will be running the interactive event which will include interview techniques and advice on how to organise your job search so you give employers the information they need to decide to interview you.

Everyone who completes the course will receive a certificate to use with their CV. Places are limited to 15 on a first come, first served basis so please book online as soon as possible.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/JobClubs

Home Contents Insurance for all Tenants The cost of Tenants Contents Insurance under the Havering Council scheme is now lower than it has been in years!

Prices for standard cover start from: 79p per week for £9,000 cover for under 60’s 53p per week for £6,000 cover for over 60’s 35p per week for £4,000 cover for those in sheltered accommodation

Or you can choose to upgrade to full accidental damage cover from: £1.13 per week for £9,000 cover for under 60’s 76p per week for £6,000 cover for over 60’s 50p per week for £4,000 cover for those in sheltered accommodation

You simply need to choose the level of cover to suit you, up to £40,000.

Avoid unexpected costs with cover included for items such as lost or stolen keys, freezer contents and broken windows – all specially designed just for tenants!

NO EXCESS if you need to make a claim

Hornchurch Library, 44 North Street, Hornchurch, RM11 1TB

There is also a range of optional covers to choose from, including cover for personal belongings away from the home, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, hearing aids and pedal cycles**.

Havering Citizens Advice Bureau - Fridays 10am to 1pm

No increase in your premium if you do make a claim – the prices quoted are fixed for at least the next 2 years

Havering Citizens Advice Bureau, 9 Victoria Road, Romford, RM1 2JT

Pay weekly with your rent– no additional interest charges!

Hornchurch Library - Thursdays 10am to 1pm

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/JobClubs

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/HomeInsurance

www.havering.gov.uk

Home Ownership News Leaseholder Forum Meetings

Heard at the Forum

The Leaseholder Forum gives a voice for Home Owners to raise issues of concern.

The July meeting of the Leaseholder Forum was briefed by OneHousing Project Manager, Tom Iliffe, on the new computer system being introduced next year and the benefits it will bring for leaseholders.

Meetings takes place between 6.30pm and 8.30pm at Havering Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BD. Light refreshments are provided.

The next meetings are on: • Tuesday 21 November 2017 • Tuesday 20 March 2018 • Tuesday 24 July 2018 If you are a Council leaseholder and want to join the forum please contact Community Engagement Officer Joanne Mahony through the web page below.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/LeaseholderForum

On the floor If you live in a leasehold flat it is a breach of your Leasehold Agreement if you install hard floor surfaces as when you walk on these it makes a lot of noise and disturbs the people living below you.

So please be considerate and install carpets or other soft floor coverings throughout your property to stay on the right side of your neighbours and to keep within your Leasehold Agreement.

Forum members requested that an information sheet, including details of local gas safety companies, be included with reminders about gas safety certificates.

Information on fire safety procedures were given to forum members so they were aware of leaseholder’s responsibilities for reducing the risk of fire in their homes.

Forum Elections The elections for officers of the Leaseholder Forum took place this summer and the results were: Sandy Stevenson 25 Elected Chris Abbott

3

Mr Rajanikant

0

Frances Gerlach

14 Elected

Tulu Olubanjo

12

Mrs Shashikala

1

Chair S andy Stevenson

Homes recovered

If you’re thinking of exercising your Right to Buy (RTB) make sure that you are following the rules.

In the last two years the Home Ownership Team has identified 55 RTB applications which caused concern and were referred to Tenancy Fraud investigators.

The investigations showed that the 55 applicants were committing fraud by not providing accurate information and their RTB was cancelled.

Many of those applicants then had to hand in their keys to avoid fraud prosecutions meaning an extra 55 properties were available for genuine Council tenants.

That tough action saved the Council £4,784,438 in discounts which would have been given if RTB had gone ahead.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/RightToBuy

Cancelled

21

22

At The Heart Autumn 2017

Courses

to give you

‘green fingers’

Floristry and Horticulture at Havering Adult College offers a wide range of opportunities at different levels.

Whether you are an absolute beginner, or considering starting your own business, we have a range of courses that will suit your needs.

Courses include a variety of floristry and floral design courses, short gardening courses and longer

accredited horticulture courses.

All floristry courses are practical and cover many floral arrangements. Horticulture courses are offered as practical and theoretical courses at different levels.

All our floristry and horticulture courses are open to men and women – and couples to attend together!

More info www.bit.ly/HAC-Floristry NHS FIRE HAZARD A3:NHS FIRE HAZARD A3

26/11/07

17:52

Page 1

Fire

Hazard

With Paraffin Based Skin Products On Dressings And Clothing Skin products containing paraffin based products, for example White Soft Paraffin, White Soft Paraffin plus 50% Liquid Paraffin or Emulsifying ointment in contact with dressings and clothing are easily ignited with a naked flame or a cigarette.

Keep away from fire when using these products For further information, go to www.npsa.nhs.uk

www.havering.gov.uk

23

Sapphire Centre is a real gem

Paula Arkell-White of The Breyer Foundation presents the cheque for the Wi-fi service The Sapphire Jubilee Community Centre is in Bolberry Road, Collier Row, RM5 2FG. Work started on the building in May 2017 and it was completed by 31 August 2017. The official opening is scheduled for Friday 1 December 2017.

Cllr White with the name plate

The new centre is carbon neutral with solar panels contributing to the power for the anticipated electricity demand in the building, a ground source heat pump with a bore hole up to 140 metres into the earth to generate heating for the centre and rainwater capture so the grey water can be used for flushing toilets, watering the landscaping areas etc.

The pre-fabricated building was built by Northamptonshire based Scotts of Thrapston, specialists in the design, manufacture and installation of such buildings.

The finished community centre includes a large hall for events and use by local organisations alongside a kitchen, toilets and an office.

The building is fully accessible for people with disabilities and there is an underfloor induction loop for people with hearing difficulties.

The main hall can accommodate 80 people seated or 120 people standing and has a built in sound system, there will also be Wi-Fi available throughout the centre.

Work finished!

A play area for children under 10 years old has been created next to the new building.

As well as money from Havering Council’s housing capital projects a grant of £10,000 towards the cost of the children's’ play area has been given by Tesco through the money collected from the sale of plastic carrier bags.

The children’s play area

The Breyer Foundation has helped finance the installation of Wi-Fi throughout the building.

Work on the neighbouring park will be mainly scrub clearance to make that area more available for residents to use. Fundraising is taking place to enable equipment, trim trails and similar facilities to be installed in the park.

The building is available for hire to community groups and local residents.

More info www.havering.gov.uk/ SapphireJubileeCommunityCentre

24

At The Heart Autumn 2017

Do It In A Day Getting repairs done quickly and effectively is important, which is why a new system has been introduced so that all day to day repairs in a specific street will be tackled on one day by the Council’s contractor, the Breyer Group.

Housing Services Responsive Repairs Manager, Elina Rice, said: “The aim is to improve the repairs service to Havering’s tenants and leaseholders. By having a known day, residents can plan ahead and the Council will do more repairs on time and at the first visit, because we will be in one location if a tenant needs something done.”

Tenants should report repairs in the normal way and the Council will programme non-urgent repairs to be carried out during these special days. Also if there is a repair that hasn’t been reported, we may be able to complete it for you on the day.

The dates for the repair days are listed opposite.

More info www.havering.gov.uk/repairdays

www.havering.gov.uk

Date

Area

​4 October 2017

Rush Green Gardens

11 October 2017

Ongar Way, Theydon Gardens, Danbury Road, Fyfield Road, Canfield Road, Harlow Road, Writtle Walk

17 October 2017

The Rotunda, Fambridge Court, Cottons Court (sheltered)

24 October 2017

F​ arnham Road, Hilldene Avenue, Chippenham Road, Kings Lynn Drive, Dartfields, Rothbury House, Crediton House, Wantage House, Ingleton House, Stratford House, Ripon House, Keswick House, Ringwood House, Morpeth House, Matlock House, Lincoln House

31 October 2017

​Malan Square, Bader Way, Wood Lane, Thomas Sims Court

​7 November 2017

L​ eyburn Crescent, Leyburn Road, Southall House, Ulverston House, Runcorn House, Talgarth House, Wallingford House, Coleford House, Denbigh House, Chesham House, Havant House, Atherton House, Middlesborough House, Lampeter House, Enfield House, Helmsley House, Langport House, Orton House, Pulborough House

14 November 2017

Carnforth House, Marsden House, Bracknell House, Brackley House, Bedford House, Arnside House, Heathfield House, Hungerford House, Lodden House, Marsden House

​21 November 2017

​ orecambe House, Minefield House, Macclesfield House, Lynmouth House, Luton House, M Thrapston House, Haslingdon House, Halifax House, Glossop House, Epsom House, Gillingham House, Camelford House, Wilmslow House, Wolverton House, Newmarket House, Portmadoc House, Northampton House, Nelson House

​28 November 2017

St Helen's Court

5 December 2017

Napier House, New Plymouth House, Dunedin Road, Gisborne Gardens, Queenstown Gardens, New Zealand Way, Christchurch Avenue, Auckland Avenue

​12 December 2017

Queen Street, Waterloo Gardens, St. Andrew’s Road, William Pike House, Thomas England House, Queen Street Villas

​19 December 2017

Highfield Road, Hillrise Road, Highfield Towers, Highfield Link, Hendon Gardens, Harlow Gardens

3 January 2018

Prospect Place

10 January 2018

Suffolk House, Norfolk House, Sussex House, Surrey House, Kent House, Durham House, Devon House, Cumberland House, Rutland House, Mawney Close, Rodney Way, Valiant Close, Victory Way

17 January 2018

Brunswick Avenue, Macon Way, Lexington Way, Roseberry Gardens, Waycross Avenue, Moultrie Way, Griffin Avenue, Brunswick court (sheltered)

24 January 2018

Maygreen Crescent, Park Lane (sheltered)

31 January 2018

Rush Green Gardens

7 February 2018

Ongar Way, Theydon Gardens, Danbury Road, Fyfield Road, Canfield Road, Harlow Road, Writtle Walk

14 February 2018

The Rotunda, Fambridge Court, Cottons Court (sheltered)

​21 Februaryr 2018

Farnham Road, Hilldene Avenue, Chippenham Road, Kings Lynn Drive, Dartfields, Rothbury House, Crediton House, Wantage House, Ingleton House, Stratford House, Ripon House, Keswick House, Ringwood House, Morpeth House, Matlock House, Lincoln House

25

26

At The Heart Autumn 2017

Performance against targets Below are the July 2017 performance outturns Average time to re-let empty properties

Percentage of all repairs completed within target

Outcome 21.4 days

Outcome 92.97%

Target 14 days

Target 96%

Percentage of estates which have been inspected and is achieving an excellent or good standard

Percentage of properties with valid gas certificate (Council dwellings only)

Outcome 99.3%

Outcome 99.78%

Target 95%

Target 100%

Target 100%

Don't out Don’t miss miss out on on the the news news

It’s a grand to downsize!

Move from 4 beds 4 beds 4 beds 3 beds 3 beds 2 beds to

to

to

to

to

to

Every month we email At the Heart Online to more than 10,800 Council tenants and leaseholders providing them with the latest news and information about housing issues.

3 beds 2 beds 1 bed 2 beds 1 bed 1 bed

The Council has more than 145,000 subscribers to the range of newsletters it produces.

£1000 £1500 £2000 £1000 £1500 £1000

Make sure you’re not missing out and sign up to receive your copy.

Sign up now to make sure you keep up-to-date.

More info www.havering.gov.uk/news

you get

you get

+

you get

you get

you get

£500

Up to towards moving costs

More info www.havering.gov.uk/Downsizing

you get

www.havering.gov.uk

27

School Admissions Selecting your child’s school place, may feel like a daunting process. But don’t worry, the Council has developed a simple guide to help parents understand this milestone in their child’s life.

• •

Don't miss the deadline

Tuesday

I s your child aged four or above from the 1 September 2018? You will need to apply for their reception school place now

31r 2017

I f your child has just entered Year Six, you will need to apply for their Year Seven place now.

Octobe

Year 7 ate closing d

Where to start When deciding on either a primary school or senior school make sure you have read the individual school admissions criteria carefully.

Before completing your online application form, it is recommended that parents visit all their preferred schools.

Secondary school open days or evenings information is at

www.havering.gov.uk/SecondarySchoolOpenDays

For infant or primary schools, parents are advised to contact the individual schools direct.

Completing the online form The Council advises that parents or carers list as many preferences as possible when completing the online form.

Listing more than one preference on the application means parents are more likely to be offered one of those preferences.

It is advised not to include any school where your child does not meet the schools criteria.

Monda y

15

Januar y 2018

Recept closing ion date

Dates for the 2018 diary

• •

econdary school applications responses will be emailed S to parents on the evening of Thursday 01 March 2018 eception application responses will be emailed to R parents on the evening of Thursday 15 April 2018.

If your child is not old enough to start school there are many options.

If you are looking to return to work or your child would benefit from extra activities, or you are just looking for a little respite, early years education can help.

Havering has a huge range of preschools, day nurseries, childminders, breakfast clubs, after-school clubs. Free funding options are also available for children from two years old.

More information: www.havering.gov.uk/earlyyears

Helpful websites www.havering.gov.uk/admissions – lists all Havering infant, junior, primary and secondary schools, information about them and their admissions criteria on the Council’s online application form. www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk – lists Information regarding individual school performance statistics.

28

At The Heart Autumn 2017

Listings Jobs Clubs

Every Monday, 9am – 12noon Mardyke Community Centre, South Street, Rainham, RM13 8PJ. www.havering.gov.uk/ jobclubs Every Tuesday, 10am – 1pm North Romford Community Association, Room 6, Clockhouse Lane, Collier Row, RM5 3QJ. www.havering.gov.uk/ jobclubs Every Wednesday, 10am– 1pm Betty Strathern Centre, 41 Myrtle Road, Harold Hill, RM3 8XS www.havering.gov.uk/ jobclubs Every Thursday, 10am– 1pm Hornchurch Library, 44 North Street, Hornchurch,RM11 1TB www.havering.gov.uk/ jobclubs Every Friday, 10am – 1pm Havering Citizens Advice Bureau, 9 Victoria Road, Romford, RM1 2JT www.havering.gov.uk/ jobclubs

Harold Hill, RM3 8HP Every Wednesday, 12noon – 2pm

Residents’ Groups

The Highview Residents’ Association meets on the third Thursday of each month, 6pm – 7.30pm.

New members welcome More info www.havering.gov.uk/ askhousing Ingrebourne Community Housing Group Coffee Morning Every Tuesday, 10am – 12noon Hitchin Close Hall, Hitchin Close, Harold Hill, RM3 7EG.

FAIRKYTES Fairkytes Arts Centre, 51 Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1AX Tickets can be purchased through Seetickets, or from the Fairkytes Box Office on 01708 456308.

Friday 15 September, 7pm Youth Singing Competition, Tickets £5 + booking fee in advance, £8 on the door

Collier Row Early Children’s Centre, Clockhouse Lane, Collier Row​, RM5 3Q​J Every Tuesday, 12noon – 2pm Chippenham Road Children's Centre​, 85-89 Chippenham Road,

night, Mike Dawes, General Admission, £14.85, Concession £10.45 Friday 24 November, 8pm Kiki Dee, General Admission £27.50

Tickets are £5 in advance (plus booking fee), £8 on the door.

Family Mosaic runs weekly drop-in sessions at:

More info www.facebook.com/haveringhousing www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing

Friday 29 September, 8pm Aladdinsane £16.50 Friday 13 October, 8pm Fleetingwood Mac £16.50 Friday 27 October, 8pm Gordon Giltrap £17.60

Saturday 2 December, 8pm China Crisis, General Admission £27.50 Friday 15 December, 8pm Music for a Winters Night, Graffiti Classics, General Admission £14.85, Concession £10.45 Details of other events can be seen online at www. havering.gov.uk/events

Leaseholder Forum

The following Leaseholder forums will be held at Havering Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BB on the following dates: Wednesday 22 November 2017, 6.30pm – 8.30pm Wednesday 21 March 2018, 6.30pm – 8.30pm More info www.havering.gov.uk/ LeaseholderForum

Councillor White Surgeries Councillor Damian White, Lead Councillor for Housing holds surgeries once a month. If you have any housing issues you wish to discuss with Councillor White, please come along, you will be seen on a first come first seen basis.

Friday 29 September 2017, 4pm – 6pm Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BB

Friday 3 November, 8pm Open Mic Night, Tickets £5 + booking fee in advance, £8 on the door

Friday 27 October 2017, 4pm – 6pm Macon Way Council Office, Macon Way, Cranham, RM14 1NY

Friday 17 November, 7.30pm Music for a winters

Friday 24 November 2017, 4pm – 6pm

Sapphire Jubilee Community Centre, Bolberry Road, Collier Row, RM5 3DQ Friday 15 December 2017, 4pm – 6pm Hacton Hall, Haydock Close, Hornchurch, RM12 6EA

Youth Diversionary project dates Every Monday, Macon Way Council Office, Macon Way, Cranham, RM14 1NY 31 May -31 December, 6pm – 8pm Every Wednesday, Central Park, Gooshays Drive, Harold Hill, RM3 9LB 31 May -31 December, 6pm – 8pm Every Thursday, Malan Square Elm Park RM13 7JA 31 May -31 December, 6pm – 8pm Check social media for where we will be this week: Twitter @LBHHousing Facebook Havering Council Housing Services Please visit: www.havering. gov.uk/youthbus

Fostering Information events for training, rewards and benefits of becoming a foster carer.

Presentations are being held at Havering Town Hall from 6pm to 7pm on the Thursday 5 October Thursday 2 November

Dogs Trust Dogs Trust are doing free micro chipping on Tuesday 10 October from 11am -3pm, Kingsbridge Circus, Harold Hill, RM3 8PB.

www.havering.gov.uk

29

Special Housing Regeneration Surgeries are being held on four of the general needs sites being regenerated.

All visits are from 10am until 3pm so do call in and see the officers if you have any questions which need answering.

Date Tues 3 Oct 2017

Community Engagement Officer Tenancy Sustainment Officer Maygreen Cres & Park Lane

Weds 4 Oct 2017

Waterloo Estate

Thurs 5 Oct 2017 Tues 10 Oct 2017

Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs

Weds 11 Oct 2017

Maygreen Cres & Park Lane

Thurs 12 Oct 2017 Tues 17 Oct 2017l

Waterloo Estate Waterloo Estate

Weds 18 Oct 2017

Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs

Thurs 19 Oct 2017 Tues 24 Oct 2017

Maygreen Cres & Park Lane Oldchurch Gardens

Weds 25 Oct 2017

Waterloo Estate

Thurs 26 Oct 2017 Tues 31 Oct 2017

Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs

Weds 1 Nov 2017

Oldchurch Gardens

Thurs 2 Nov 2017 Tues 7 Nov 2017

Waterloo Estate Waterloo Estate

Weds 8 Nov 2017

Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs

Thurs 9 Nov 2017 Tues 14 Nov 2017

Oldchurch Gardens Maygreen Cres & Park Lane

Weds 15 Nov 2017

Waterloo Estate

Thurs 16 Nov 2017 Tues 21 Nov 2017

Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs

Weds 22 Nov 2017

Maygreen Cres & Park Lane

Thurs 23 Nov 2017 Tues 28 Nov 2017

Waterloo Estate Waterloo Estate

Weds 29 Nov 2017

Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs

Thurs 30 Nov 2017 Tues 5 Dec 2017

Maygreen Cres & Park Lane Oldchurch Gardens

Weds 6 Dec 2017

Waterloo Estate

Thurs 7 Dec 2017 Tues 12 Dec 2017

Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs

Weds 13 Dec 2017

Oldchurch Gardens

Thurs 14 Dec 2017 Tues 19 Dec 2017 Weds 20 Dec 2017

Housing Regeneration Officer

Oldchurch Gardens Waterloo Estate

Waterloo Estate Napier Hs & New Plymouth Hs

30

At The Heart Autumn 2017

It's easy to do it online Sign up to Havering Council’s ‘My Account’ service at www.havering.gov.uk/myhavering and you can then access a wide range of services 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the website.

You can apply to move house, for energy efficiency advice, to rent a garage and much more at www.havering.gov.uk/applyhousing

0000 000

6543 2109 8765 4321

You can also pay your housing or garage rent and Council Tax by Direct Debit by completing and returning the online form, or you can pay online using credit or debit cards through www.havering.gov.uk/payforit The Report It service is available to let the council know about community and neighbourhood issues, housing issues and a lot more at www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing

SeeMyData

Tenant/Leaseholder Repairs

Council tenants and leaseholders can get secure access to all their housing information online through www.havering.gov.uk/SeeMyData

Housing on Facebook Do keep checking the Havering Housing page on Facebook to see what’s happening. You can also find out when the Do It In A Day repair teams are in your area, when the Cabinet Member for Housing is holding a surgery as well as the latest housing news.

More info www.facebook.com/haveringhousing

Looking for an article?

Past copies of At the Heart are available on the Council website so you can check an article from an earlier issue anytime.

More information www.havering.gov.uk/AtTheHeart

ICT support at libraries The 10 libraries in Havering all have computers available and offer support for people needing help to set up email accounts or access the internet. This free support is only available at certain times at each library as shown in the table. As these sessions are often run by volunteers. Please contact the library to confirm details and book your place.

Library Collier Row Elm Park Gidea Park Harold Hill Harold Wood Hornchurch Rainham Romford Central South Hornchurch Upminster

ICT Session date Dates to be confirmed

Contact CollierRow.library@havering.gov.uk T 434936 Dates to be confirmed ElmPark.library@havering.gov.uk T 434919 Wed, 10 – 11am Beginners' course over five weeks GideaPark.library@havering.gov.uk Thurs, 5 – 6pm Intermediate course over eight weeks T 434978 Sat, 10 – 11am Techy Buddy session Mon, 10 – 11am and 5.30 – 6.30pm Tues, 10 – 11am HaroldHill.library@havering.gov.uk Thurs, 10 – 11am Fri, 10 – 11am T 434973 Wed, 10.30am – 12.30pm pre-booking essential HaroldWood.library@havering.gov.uk Thurs, 2.30 – 4.30pm pre-booking essential T 434975 First Tues of month, 2 – 4pm, Techy Teas Hornchurch.library@havering.gov.uk T 434903 Last Wed of month, 10.30am – 12.30pm, Techy Teas Rainham.library@havering.gov.uk T 434970 Wed, 10am – noon, ICT Support drop-in sessions, Central.library@havering.gov.uk Fri, 10am – 12 noon, Beginners' four-week course T 432389 pre-booking essential.

Sat, 1.30 – 3.30pm SouthHornchurch.library@havering.gov.uk T 434921 Thur, 10.30am – 12.30pm Upminster.library@havering.gov.uk First Thurs of Month, 10.30am – 12.30pm, Techy Teas. T 434933 1-2-1 IT help on dates and times to suit individual needs. Booking essential More info www.havering.gov.uk/libraries - all telephone numbers 01708

www.havering.gov.uk

Councillor Damian White said: “I firmly believe that the Council needs to focus on the needs of tenants and listen even more to their views.

Most importantly, act on them so that they are reflected not just in housing policies but also in our day to day work that has such a big impact on where people live.

Tell Damian what you think...

YOUR DETAILS Name Address

email phone

“That is why any tenant or leaseholder can contact me directly to raise any housing-related issue they wish.

Your comment

“Whether you contact me by email or post when you send the form back to me I guarantee that it will be seen directly by myself and you will receive a reply from me.

“I look forward to hearing from you."

If you want to get in touch please email.

Damian.White@havering.gov.uk or complete the form on this page and then post it to: Councillor Damian White Cabinet Member for Housing Services, Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BB.

Cabinet Member’s Surgery Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Damian White, is holding regular surgeries across the Borough so Council tenants can call in and discuss housing issues with him. The surgeries

will be on a ‘first come, first served’ basis and any tenants are welcome to come along. All discussions will be confidential.

The next monthly surgery dates are: Date Venue Fri 29 September 2017 Town Hall

Address Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BB

Fri 27 October 2017

Macon Way, Upminster, RM14 1NY 4 pm– 6pm

Macon Way Council Office

31

Time 4 pm– 6pm

Fri 24 November 2017 Sapphire Jubilee Hillrise Road, Collier Row, Community RM5 3DQ Centre

4 pm– 6pm

Fri 15 December 2017 Hacton Hall

4 pm– 6pm

Haydock Close, Hornchurch, RM12 6EA

Your Council, anytime More of the Council’s services are now available online, so you can access them day or night when it suits you, and we can provide them more cost-effectively.

On average an online transaction is 20 times cheaper than using the phone , 30 times cheaper than the post and 50 times cheaper than a face-to-face meeting.

More info www.havering.gov.uk/myhavering

You can now Report, Apply or Pay online, such as reporting a pothole or missed rubbish collection, applying for a blue badge or parking permit, or paying your Council Tax. Please help us to help you, and contact the Council online next time you need us.