The Trafford Housing Trust Magazine Autumn 2014
FREE
to all our tenants
Featuring Tom, Fiona Gardens' first resident New Community Re-development Special plans for Shrewsbury Street
Plus much more
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
Welcome to the autumn edition of your Pulse magazine I do hope you have all had a fantastic summer, enjoying the long hot sunny days (there were quite a few of them), the light nights, too many ice creams, and all the other sounds, tastes and smells that come with the great British Summer. As we say goodbye to summer and hello to autumn, this edition of Pulse is full of the usual exciting updates, information and facts about your community and our borough. You will find the Tenant Annual Report, important information on employment, food poverty and universal credit, and an update on our focus for the future, alongside the usual features and regular items found in every issue. The leaves are changing colour on the trees, Halloween and Bonfire night are fast approaching and Christmas cards are already in the shops! So make a brew and catch up on news and discover what’s planned for the coming months in your area. Don’t forget to keep in touch and I will catch up with you soon.
Cass Hasford Editor, Pulse
See you in the next issue!
Pulse is the customer magazine published by Trafford Housing Trust Editor Cass Hasford Contributor Roz Hughes
If you need this magazine in another format (such as large print, audio or another language) please call the Customer Hub on 0300 777 7777.
Telephone 0161 968 0021 Email editor@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk For advertising, letters and feedback please write to us at this address: Cass Hasford Trafford Housing Trust 126-150 Washway Road Sale, M33 6AG Telephone 0300 777 7777 Twitter @TalkTrafford Facebook/traffordhousingtrust www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
What’s in Pulse? Features
8
First tenant moves into Fiona 22 Gardens Universal Credit made simple 20 Family Fun Days in Trafford
Fire safety for residents
A haven of happin ess in Timpe rley The Trust: always by your side
22
Welcome to our new Non-Executive Directors
15
Trust Residents Grow for it!
34 12
24
Tenant Annual Report 26
16
New Shrewsbury Street Community Development
23
Tackling Food Poverty in 14 Trafford
News stories New seating area at Lostock Court
4
Garden party fun in Flixton
4
Bramhall Close celebrates re-opening with wartime themed party Clyne Court marks Dementia Awareness Week
Family fun at the Sale West Arts Club
6
Creating something for local people 6
4
Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) in Broadheath 7
5
Free courses and internet access at Broomwood
Charity bash at Stretford House raises £1,500 for cancer sufferers
5
War Veteran tells Bowdon school pupils about life saving mission
5
Start Up Micro Enterprise Scheme – coming very soon! Life After Stroke in Trafford
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In every issue An update from Localities 28 You said, we did
29
Skills & Training
30
Hints and tips – maintenance of your home 32 Employment Matters
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33
Woodsend, Urmston and Old Trafford family fun days 34
Finding out when the grass will be cut has never been easier 11 www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Residents enjoying garden p arty
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
Round up of
events and news
New Seating Area at Lostock Court Last year Lostock Court Sheltered Scheme lost two mature cherry trees, leaving the outside area looking a bit bare. We asked residents what they would like as a replacement and the preferred option was a wooden gazebo. This was all paid for by the local Community Panels to the delight of all the residents.
Garden Party fun in Flixton More than a dozen residents at Sandown Gardens in Flixton got the flags out on a sunny Sunday afternoon in June to celebrate Trafford turning 40. Trust tenant, Lynda McCoy organised an anniversary garden party for her neighbours and everyone from the bungalows brought along food. Commenting on the event, Lynda said: “It was a lovely afternoon, everyone had their sun hats on and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. We put the bunting up and enjoyed plenty of food and drink.”
Bramhall Close celebrates re-opening with wartime themed party In June, Bramhall Close sheltered scheme re-opened following extensive refurbishment work costing more than £200,000. To mark the opening, and to commemorate the First World War centenary, a wartime themed party took place, organised by the Trust and supported by local residents who volunteered on the day. Entertainment came from a bagpiper and the Trust’s staff, joined by children from Limetree Primary School, performed war time songs. Barbara Hampson, a Sale resident of over 60 years officially re-opened the scheme. She was joined for the cutting of the ribbon by Councillor Mr Ejaz Malik, Mayor of Trafford and the Trust’s Chief Executive, Matthew Gardiner.
Helper s and scheme manage rs
New gazebo at Lostock Court
Matthew, Trust Chief Exec, Councillor Malik and Barbara Hampson 4
Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
Resident and a member of the Bramhall Cl ose team
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Residents and the ir guests enjoying aftern oo n tea
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
ROUND UP
Clyne Court marks Dementia Awareness Week Every Wednesday, Age UK Trafford hold dementia support for local people at the Trust's Sheltered Scheme Clyne Court in Old Trafford.
War Veteran tells Bowdon school pupils about life saving mission Frank and schoo
l children
To mark Dementia Awareness Week, they hosted an afternoon tea event for residents. As well as tasty cakes, everyone enjoyed an afternoon of karaoke and residents raised £50 for Age UK Trafford. Graham Lander, a Clyne Court resident said: “It’s good to have the group here every week. They’re a nice bunch and seem to enjoy their day with us.” For more information on dementia advice and support, contact dementia advisers Tina Swindells and Joanna Rankin on 0161 746 3944 or 0161 746 9754.
Charity bash at Stretford House raises £1,500 for cancer sufferers Residents from Stretford House raised over £1,500 for the Macmillan cancer charity, the Trust's chosen charity of the year, when they held a special mid-summer’s eve dinner in June. Organised by Jan Howell, her friend, Mary Flemming and Trust caretaker John Rogers and his wife Georgina, the sell-out event was attended by 55 people. Guests enjoyed food, drink and entertainment, including a band and raffle. And just before dusk, 264 balloons were released into the sky from the roof, each containing the name of a loved one lost to cancer. Trust caretaker John Rogers, speaking after the event said: “We had a fabulous time. The balloon release was very poignant. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house. What was particularly touching and symbolic was that we couldn’t separate the balloons, however hard we tried. They kept going back to form one bunch which was very moving.”
Second World War veteran, Frank Tolley, visited Bowdon Church School in Altrincham to tell students how he helped save thousands of lives. The 93 year old is President of the Hobblers and Wobblers war veterans group set up by Trust tenant Mary Blackburn BEM, (British Empire Medal). Frank, who lives in Sale and now volunteers at the Imperial War Museum, was part of a seven strong crew that flew a Lancaster Bomber over an occupied part of the Netherlands on 29th April 1945 to drop food to Dutch civilians.
Jan, John, Georgina and Mary
Anyone interested in joining the Hobblers and Wobblers group for war veterans should contact Mary Blackburn on 0161 941 1470. www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
NEWS
Family fun at the Sale West Arts Club
The Big Family Arts Club will be running a series of six weekly sessions at Sale West Community Centre every Friday from 4pm - 5.30pm from 12th September. Aimed at pre-school up to 12 years, the sessions are multisensory and inclusive. Children are given the opportunity to record their creative journey in a special book and achieve a Discover Arts Award. Mum, Jane Mottram from Sale and her seven year old Daughter Lydia are Arts Club regulars. Jane said: “It’s a chance for us to learn new things, do something creative together and we both really enjoy it. Lydia received an award at the end of the last series and she still has the photograph by her bed.” The club aims to provide quality creative activities at an affordable price of £3.50 (up to 2 children) with additional children an extra 50p each. Booking isn’t necessary and families are encouraged to drop-in. For more information on taking part or volunteering visit www.birdsofparadise.org.uk
Jane Mottram and daugh ter Lydia ha ving fun
Volunteers on Give and Gain Day
Creating something for local people Give & Gain Day is the UK’s only national day of employee volunteering and provides an opportunity to connect skilled professionals with community organisations by matching them with a volunteering project. The Trust has taken part in Give & Gain Day for the past three years, and this year volunteering efforts were focused on two local projects: refurbishing the Ogaden Centre in Old Trafford and helping conservation on Urmston Meadows with Red Rose Forest. As the sun smiled down, volunteers from the Trust and other local businesses, with support from various partners, worked with gusto to create something for local people that could otherwise have taken months to achieve. Trust staff member Jimmy Brown commented on the day, “I was on the Urmston Meadow project for Give & Gain Day with Red Rose. I loved every minute of it and it was great to get out in the countryside.”
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Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
NEWS
Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) in Broadheath
This initiative began due to numerous complaints coming through the Customer Hub and Greater Manchester Police regarding anti-social behaviour throughout the borough and in particular the Broadheath area with the younger generation. The Trust's Youth Team wanted to understand these issues more, so during a routine estate walkabout they obtained feedback from the younger people in the neighbourhood and listened to their views and opinions. They told the Trust staff they wanted to get involved in something active and suggested football coaching would be the ideal solution. The Trust funded free football sessions for anyone aged 6 or over, between April – September every Wednesday evening. Since the start of the project, ASB has reduced dramatically. The Trust continues the estate walkabouts in partnership with Greater Manchester Police on a weekly basis to ensure other anti-social issues don’t arise. ng
Children receivi s their cert ificate
Free courses and internet access at Broomwood The Broomwood Community Wellbeing Centre offers a whole range of activities including boxing for all ages and abilities, martial arts, yoga, massage, guitar lessons, singing, woodwork, arts and crafts, and jewellery making and courses in confidence building, singing, Maths and English and IT for beginners. blueSCI is located within the centre and supports people experiencing emotional or psychological distress.
Start Up Micro Enterprise Scheme – coming very soon! • Are you a budding entrepreneur? • Perhaps you have a hobby or passion that you would like to turn into a money-spinning venture? • Perhaps you have a trade or skill that you can capitalise on, but need some tools of the trade? • Perhaps a website, or that first marketing campaign? Extra support in getting your business idea off the drawing board is available through a new venture. The Trust and our Community Panels in Old Trafford, Stretford and Urmston, are working in partnership with Manchesterbased ethical lender Business Finance Solutions to provide personal loans to residents with enterprise ideas. The loans of up to £2,500 are linked to the Government’s Start-Up Loan programme and individuals who have been trading for up to 12 months can apply. The funding can cover costs including premises, marketing, test trading, staff training or equipment. To find out more about this exciting opportunity please contact our Enterprise Coach Jonathan Baker in the Localities Team or email jonathan.baker@ traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Call 0161 912 2650 for more information or to register for a course. For future events and activities visit the website www.broomwoodcommunitywellbeingcentre.org.uk www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
FEATURE
A haven of happiness in Timperley
hn Norman and Jo se in the greenhou
A visit to Newhaven in Timperley really lifts the spirits. You’d be hard pressed to find a happier place. Built three years ago in 2011, it was the Trust’s first Extra Care facility, has 38 two-bedroomed apartments currently accommodating 45 residents. Cass Hasford found out more when she paid a visit to the scheme. When I arrived, the Friday coffee morning was in full swing. Volunteers Jenny and Ally come in each week to help out and are kept busy making cups of tea and offering teacakes and toast to those regulars and the occasional guest. Everyone is very friendly and even Tony, the cleaner, gets a warm welcome when he pops in to say hello. I share a sofa with Joyce Bowett who leans over and says: “It’s a lovely atmosphere. We’ve got someone in hospital at the moment and everyone has been rooting for him. A friend of mine who is a social worker and regularly visits places like this said she’d never seen anything like it.” After a cup of tea, Allan Peckitt is keen to show me around. A long-standing member of the 8
Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
Altrincham Community Panel, he tells me he was also chairman of the residents’ group until he had his heart attack and he now tries to take more of a back seat, although there was little evidence of this on the day I was there. Allan lives with his wife Irene, who is partially sighted and they moved into Newhaven for the added support. Tenants of the Trust for 10 years, he proudly shows me their spacious and homely twobedroomed apartment, which they have rented since the building opened. “I can’t say enough about the way we all get along here.” He tells me. “Everyone is so friendly and we all look out for each other. It’s the people that really make this place special.” customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Happy residents enjoying the garden space
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
FEATURE
Our Extra Care facility provides an environment where over 55s and people with support needs can continue to live independently, secure in the knowledge that all their needs will be taken care of by a team of professional people. It’s a family affair as Allan’s daughter Sandra Joynson has bought a flat just down the corridor from him which she shares with her husband Ray. Sandra is equally community-spirited and organises the trips out for residents. “The people here are like an extension of my family” says Sandra with a smile. I also have a peek inside Dorothy Vickerman’s spotless flat. She moved in eight months ago having lived in France for 20 years. “I love it to death here. I felt part of the family after the first week and now I feel like I’ve not lived anywhere else.” Since her husband Ralph died, the house proud pensioner decorated her bedroom in pink and bought some rather lovely floral shower curtains. As part of the tour, we view the Wellbeing room complete with gym equipment, dart board and a table tennis table that can also be used to play pool. This room is also used by the Diabetic Society to run their expert courses. We also pop into the on-site hairdressers which opens three times a week and has more clients from the local area than actual residents, which is great for integrating with the community. On the day I visited, a lady from Hale Barns who was celebrating her 101st birthday, arrived for a cut and blow. There’s also a café open to the public, serving hot and cold food six days a week.
There is also a greenhouse which is Norman and John’s domain, “We’re best mates” says Allan who can’t speak highly enough of both John and Norman. “They are such great guys and the type of people who really make the place what it is.” I also meet committee member Tracey Ann Smith, who lives with her Mum. The budding poet shows us some pictures of Newhaven’s many social events. More evidence of the vibrancy of the place, as if I need it. Before I leave I meet the scheme manager, Helen Coyle, and I tell her what a lovely place Newhaven is, “We wanted to give the place a hotel look and feel” she tells me - and it’s worked. Even the guest bedroom looks the part. Residents can book the en-suite facility for their relatives for just £15 for the first night and £10 per night thereafter. If you live in the area pop in and say hello, I guarantee you will receive a warm welcome and a cup of tea!
A reflexologist comes in on a Monday and there is a huge range of other activities including Healthy Hearts exercise classes and a Fat Club where members raise money for charity whilst keeping an eye on their weight. The tour ends with a visit to the garden to see the summerhouse, made possible through a £500 grant from the Trust. “This spot is a lovely sun trap and we’re all out here as soon as the sun shines.” Allan tells me. And I can believe that.
m nd her Mu
Smit h a Tracey Ann
www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
NEWS
Stroke Association is here for ‘Life After Stroke’ in Trafford The Stroke Association, the UK’s leading stroke charity, is here to support people affected by stroke in Trafford. The charity provides a Life After Stroke service in the area, funded by Trafford Clinical Commissioning Group. The service includes information, advice, support and communication support for stroke survivors and carers. With weekly visits to Trafford General Hospital and University Hospital South Manchester in Wythenshawe, the team members talk to patients and their families to help those affected cope with the physical and emotional effects of stroke, give practical advice and provide emotional support. After patients are discharged, the team provides home visits and 12 month reviews to identify the further needs of stroke survivors and their families.
their families. Our Life After Stroke service helps people in Trafford prepare for the changes after stroke, with information, advice and emotional support. “We also offer regular courses such as BOOST, a free six week course for stroke survivors and their carers to improve wellbeing, and we work to raise awareness of stroke and stroke prevention within the community in Trafford.”
Around a third of people who have had a stroke have difficulty speaking, reading or writing. Communication support helps stroke survivors who have aphasia to rebuild their communication skills with regular group sessions or home visits.
The Stroke Association team in Trafford is also always looking for volunteers to support their work in the area. To find out more about volunteering or for more information on the Life After Stroke Service in Trafford, contact Lorraine Longmore, Janine Scanlan, Joanne Thompson or Catherine Raynor on 0161 962 5854 or email traffordstroke@stroke.org.uk.
Lorraine Longmore, Life After Stroke Coordinator at the Stroke Association, says: “Stroke changes lives; it can have a huge effect on stroke survivors and
For more information about The Stroke Association, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.
nor, Catherine Ray n, Joanne Thompso ore and Lorraine Longm Janine Scanlan
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
NEWS
Finding out when the grass will be cut has never been easier Following customer feedback to provide a date-specific service for grounds maintenance, the Trust has worked in partnership with Greenfingers, our grounds maintenance contractor, to provide a live scheduler so that customers can access this information instantly. We have also amended our customer promise to reflect this service improvement. Over spring and summer, one of the questions that we were regularly asked by customers was “what day will the grass get cut?” In response to this, we have set up a live schedule.
How do I access this? • Go on to the Greenfingers website: www.greenfingers-group.co.uk • Select the ‘Op Core’ option on the home screen • Log-in and view the information about your site Upon your request Greenfingers will provide you with an individual log-in which will ensure you are sent a text or an email a day before they are due on site. If you do not have internet access, do not worry, you can call the Customer Hub, who have been trained to operate the system on your behalf. Please note that these dates are subject to change in the event of extreme weather or other exceptional circumstances.
During November to March you will receive one winter visit from Greenfingers, who will stay on site to complete the following work during the winter visit: • Formal beds and shrubbery areas will be re-edged • Winter debris including leaves will be removed from site • Pruning of shrubs and hedges • Growth at the base of any communal trees will be removed as soon as it becomes apparent • All hard standings, pathways, roads, car parks and drying areas will be swept mechanically or with an air blower, removing all debris, litter and leaves from site • A litter pick will be conducted and the Trust will be notified of any fly tipping on site If you have any queries regarding the Greenfingers live schedule, please contact your Neighbourhood Partner.
www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
FEATURE
THT Gardening competition 2014
Trust Residents Grow for it! The Trust celebrated the gardening prowess of its residents by hosting a special awards ceremony to thank all entrants to the Gardening Competition. Residents were invited to enter the competition, supported by Greenfingers Landscapes, our grounds maintenance contractor, in order to recognise the hard work put into maintaining gardens and green spaces. The awards were presented by Councillor Joanne Bennett, Sale Moor Ward. Each winner received a £50 B&Q voucher, while every person who entered got a certificate and a goody bag donated by Greenfingers.
The Trust appreciates that not everyone is green fingered, however we do expect tenants to keep their garden in order, free from rubbish and neat and tidy. Autumn is the perfect time to get the garden ready for winter, by mowing the lawn and cutting back hedges and shrubs ready for next spring. If you are struggling to maintain your garden, please contact your Neighbourhood Partner to see how they can assist.
Mike Corfield, Assistant Director of Customers at the Trust commented,
“Gardening is a great example of the type of activity we encourage our residents to get involved in. Gardening can impact positively on physical, mental and emotional well-being. It can also have positive effects on people with special needs, the elderly or people with mental health conditions.”
12 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
FEATURE
Those who entered the compet ition wit h their certificates
The winners of the competition: Best Communal Garden
Ronald Jackson from Urmston – best front garden winner
Albert Latham on behalf of Millom Court, Timperley
Best Back Garden Harry Bates, Urmston
Best Front Garden Ronald Jackson, Stretford
Best Hanging Basket Susan Milne, Stretford
Albert Latham, on behalf of Millom Co sheltered scheme Ti m perley, best communurt garden winner al
from Urmston Harry Bates, ga rden winner – best back www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk 13
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
NEWS
Why is the Trust involved?
How is the Trust involved?
Food poverty is not acceptable in modern society and that is why we have joined a group of businesses, organisations and charities who have come together to tackle the growing problem of food poverty in Greater Manchester.
We have joined the week of action to raise awareness across Greater Manchester. We will join with other organisations to tackle the problem together and aim for a long and lasting change.
Tackling Food Poverty Together is a week of action to raise awareness of the issues and focus on solutions. We know that food banks and voluntary organisations are an essential support, but we are also keen to drive forward longer term solutions.
What do I do if I am struggling to buy the food I need? What do I do if my children don’t have enough to eat? We have a range of support services and also work closely with organisations who can help, so please get in touch. Contact 0300 777 7777 and tell the Customer Hub Advisor that you would like to talk to someone about food. They will just ask for your contact details and will arrange for someone to contact you within 24 hours. You can also email tacklingfoodpoverty@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
14 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
We are running different events during the week of action including:
Giving Food Giving support and raising funds for food banks, breakfast clubs and other voluntary groups.
Growing Food Supporting customers interested in growing their own food for the benefit of the community.
Cooking Food Linking with organisations who can provide advice on how to eat cheaply and healthily and reduce food waste.
Positive Starts with Food We are talking to new tenants who are on low incomes about what support they need when they move into a new home.
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
NEWS
The Trust: always by your side… It was more than ten years ago that the Trust's Board came into existence. And next year it will be 10 years since we started a well planned programme of change to ensure that tenants got the best homes and services we could offer.
Much has changed in the intervening 10 years. We have always tried to strengthen the communities of Trafford, to bring jobs and wages for local people and to improve the local environment around where people live. That was because of what tenants at the time asked of us - that we should be a good landlord but also to get stuck into helping create neighbourhoods with strong communities and safe, clean environments – places where people would choose to live. Our
We are now more focused and more ambitious than ever before and have revised our vision to reflect this: we want to create a future free from poverty, inequality and injustice. By your side, we strive for a society transformed, where everyone is healthier and happier.
Of course being a good landlord will still be what tenants should expect, that the rent you pay should be good value for the quality of the home and service that you get. But as we start to build more homes, to vision care for more vulnerable people, to “We are a force invest more in education, training and job chances for people in Trafford, we for good, driven need to remain by your side – to keep by social justice, talking to you and checking we are inspiring people and heading in the same direction. neighbourhoods
Now as benefit cuts start to leave tenants worse off and public services get cut as the Government makes the savings needed to balance their books, we see even more need to be "more than just a landlord". We One thing that will never change to be the best they see hard working people struggling to is our belief that listening to can be” pay their rent and make ends meet customers will help us continually at the end of the week; we see older, improve and develop the services we vulnerable people not able to get the deliver and the homes we provide. care in their home they need; young people starting At its simplest, which things are most important to out in life unable to find their own home or get you? What things need to change to really make support from their community to find their first job. the difference? Please tell us what you think. We think we have something to offer to help with You can read about how we have performed over these challenges. That's why we are changing the past year on page 16 and on our website you what we do - to give more emphasis to building can look at our future plans in a bit more detail new affordable homes, to looking after the most including a short video about how we are working vulnerable, to giving the community the chance to with you to improve our value for money and our be more involved in running the services they want updated ‘Customer Promises’ – reflecting your and to helping more people have more money in feedback about what matters to you in your home and in your neighbourhood. their pockets at the end of the week. www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
SPECIAL FEATURE
YOUR TRUST
Where the money comes from
Rent collection rate
99
.95%
Trust Trust Call Call
Rents
80%
Sales of Assets
8%
Service Charge
6% 2,190 cases with an average response time of
External Contractors
2%
Grants to Build New Homes
4%
£214,000 has been saved from competitive tendering of our gas and electricity.
8p
Repairs to Your Home
2p
29p 22p 20p 10p
Building new homes
7p
Management
Services
Interest on loans
2p
Other Trafford Housing Trust’s Average Weekly Costs
Responsive Repairs and Empty Property Works
Total cost per property
£7.98
£13.20
Total cost per property
Anti-Social Behaviour
Average Weekly Costs Similar Organisations
£7.54
Total cost per property
Total cost per property
This is well within our promise to get to all cases within 40 minutes as per the Telecare Services Association advised response time.
are our Tenants that rent provides value for money?
Improving your home through major repairs and planned repairs
Housing Management
Rent Arrears and Collection
15 minutes.
How satisfied
Community Investment
Service area costs
We attended
£2.85
£0.87
£15.38
84
%
satisfied 2012-2013 83%
£2.23
8
%
£1.30
neither
16 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
2012-2013 10%
32,466
99.3%
repairs carried out in 2013/14
of repairs completed in time scale (2012-2013 – 99.4%)
(2012-2013 – 27,086)
REPAIRS Customer Service
You have told us...
£760,000
has been invested through our 5 Community Panels, including:
£130,000
Supported
158
in the Trust’s Youth Team, supporting and developing young people in local neighbourhoods.
organisations to access and apply for funding to help secure
£403,000 Through CleanStart, our social enterprise initiative to clear and clean our empty properties, we have managed to save
7
%
dissatisfied 2012-2013 7%
£34,000 by no longer using external contractors.
91
%
of Tenants satisfied with the overall service 2012-2013 88%
89
%
£10,000
for each Community Panel to support a Salford and Trafford wide initiative to improve informal sporting activity - boosted by
£370,000
of funding from Sports England.
Thrive, a partnership between Pulse Regeneration and the Trust, delivers support to third sector organisations and communities in Trafford. Over
538
residents involved in deciding where voluntary sector grant monies spent in Trafford.
We know we need to be better
92.06% customer satisfaction with the service
of Tenants satisfied with their neighbourhood as a place to live 2012-2013 90%
65
%
We are putting plans in place to address this and we would welcome your views and ideas. Please contact us via
We are aiming to ensure
99%
@TalkTrafford /traffordhousingtrust E: customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk T: 0300 777 7777 W: www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
of Tenants feeling their views are listened to and acted upon 2012-2013 74%
of our customers are satisfied with the service we provide when improving their homes
National Customer Service Excellence Award
Recognised by UK International Customer Management Institute
For the 2nd year running
Up from 16th to 3rd place
Top 50
companies for Customer Service
NEW DEVELOPMENTS
1,575
people, and counting, have told us about their aspirations for the Shrewsbury Street development.
Phase One of the
Old Trafford Master Plan completed in March 2014
141
affordable homes built across the borough.
Fiona Gardens, Sale
Extra Care Facility completed in March 2014
Essex Way,
Highfield House,
completed in August 2013
completed in March 2014
Old Trafford
Stretford
Lowther Gardens, Flixton
completed in March 2014
Here’s our
2013/14 Tenant Annual Report
h o c t Wa vide t.co.uk our ousingtrus
ow rdh o f f ut h ey, a o r b t a n w. ore for mo m ww t e ed ou valu orm nd to fi achieve ve perf the ’ we ow we ar and e h w ye this ndards d a st omise pr eep. to k
Value for Money is important for us all. We want to provide, and receive, the best services for the money we spend. Every year we continue to work hard to reduce how much we spend without this having a negative affect on you. If you'd like to know more about this you can watch our short video and find our full Value for Money report on our website.
The promise we make to customers sets the standards you have said you want for the services we provide. These Promises reflect your feedback about what matters to you in your home and in your neighbourhood. If you'd like to know more about this you can find our Promises on our website.
Every day,
by your side, to create a
brighter future
OVER 9,000 HOMES 19
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
FEATURE
Universal Credit made simple Are you on a low income or looking for work? If so, Universal Credit may apply to you.
What is Universal Credit?
£
• Job Seekers Allowance (income based) • Employment and Support Allowance (income related)
Universal Credit is a new type of financial support for people who are on a low income or looking for work. It is replacing:-
What do I need to do?
If you claim any of these benefits this WILL affect you.
• Housing Benefit • Income Support • Working Tax Credit • Child Tax Credit
You don’t need to do anything if you’re already claiming any of the benefits listed above. Your payments will continue as usual. The Job Centre will contact you directly when you are being moved onto Universal Credit.
Key Facts:
What it means
All of your benefits including Housing Benefit will be made into one single lump sum payment, paid directly to you, once a month.
✔ You need to claim online, no more paper forms.
✔ You will need a bank
account for your Universal Credit payments to be paid into and also for your rent and bills to be paid out of.
✘ If you don’t comply with your claimant commitment* your benefit may stop.
✘ If you don’t pay your rent you may lose your home. Paying your rent is your responsibility.
* Your Claimant Commitment: When you claim Universal Credit, you will need to accept a Claimant Commitment. A Claimant Commitment is your record of the responsibilities that you have accepted in return for receiving Universal Credit.
We can help
Let us know immediately if your benefits switch to Universal Credit. We can make arrangements to move your payment date close to your benefit date and discuss how to pay your rent. We can also offer assistance with: Final
demand
31 Getting online
Opening a bank account
Budgeting monthly
Debt advice
Welfare rights
If you are claiming Universal Credit, call the Money Support Team on 0300 777 7777 or e-mail welfare.reform@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk 20 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
FEATURE
Help with Universal Credit:
Need help to make a claim for Universal Credit? Residents who need help to claim Universal Credit and manage their claim online can access the new Trafford UC digital support service, provided by Citizens Advice Trafford (CAT).
Citizens Advice Trafford Opening Times Bureaux
Address
Altrincham
The Library 20 Stamford New Road Altrincham WA14 1EJ Citizens Advice Trafford 1 Waterside Plaza Sale M33 7BS Stretford Library Kingsway Stretford Manchester M32 8SG
Sale
Stretford
Open for General Opening Times Advice 'drop-in' Sessions Tuesday 12pm - 3pm
Universal Credit Claiming Support Times Mon-Fri:
Friday
10am - 1pm
10am – 4pm
Monday
10am - 1pm
Mon-Fri:
Wednesday
11am - 4pm
10am – 4pm
Monday
12pm - 3pm
Mon-Fri:
Thursday
10am - 1pm
10am – 4pm
If it is just internet access you need, you can access the computer facilities at local libraries or your Jobcentre Plus office. Free Wi-Fi is also available at all Trafford libraries.
You could
WIN a £100 Gift Voucher
when you pay your rent by Direct Debit
We now offer our customers any day Direct Debits. You can pay your Direct Debit, weekly, fortnightly, 4 weekly or monthly.
By setting up a Direct Debit you can be in with the chance of winning a £100 Gift Voucher.
Call the Money Support Team on 0300 777 7777 who can help set up your Direct Debit.
If you already pay by Direct Debit we will automatically enter you into an existing Direct Debit customer prize draw. You will be eligible to win a £100 Gift Voucher if your Direct Debit is still active in October 2014. The draws will take place on 31st October 2014 and we will contact you by telephone if you are one of our lucky winners. So make sure we have your up-to-date contact details.
www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
Fiona Gardens
71
FEATURE
prestigious independent living apartments in Sale.
Tom Ste vens in his new home
First tenant moves into Fiona Gardens Fiona Gardens, an Extra Care housing development in Sale, named after local policewoman Fiona Bone, has welcomed its first resident. Tom Stephens, from Ashton on Mersey village, has Cerebral Palsy and has wanted to live independently for some time but previously there has been nowhere in the local area able to offer independent living to cater for his needs. Extra Care schemes allow people with support needs to live independently in a secure environment.
These prestigious town centre apartments are
Tom will also assist with the running of Fiona Gardens, as he and other future residents will be given the opportunity to take turns to run the reception desk amongst other tasks.
independently. I’m also very happy to be working
Fiona Gardens is named in memory of PC Fiona Bone who lived in Sale and was tragically killed whilst on duty in 2012. The £8.9 million, 71 unit Extra Care development on Atkinson Road close to where Fiona lived, is on the site of the former Place Road Sheltered Scheme. 22 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
available for both shared ownership and rental. There are still apartments available but they are going fast. Tom commented: “I’m so happy to be moving into Fiona Gardens. The building is fantastic and provides me with a great opportunity to live on the front desk and look forward to helping out visitors and my fellow residents.” Rodger Cairns, Managing Director, Independent Living, commented: “I’m very happy to welcome Tom and other residents who’ll soon be joining him at Fiona Gardens. As a welcoming, safe and enjoyable place to live, Fiona Gardens is a symbol of all that is good and positive in our local area.” customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
nce from The main entra St Brides Way
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
FEATURE The Old Trafford Customer Access point will be closed from the 3rd October. For more details visit our website.
New Shrewsbury Street Community Development On the 31st October the Old Trafford Community Centre on Shrewsbury Street will close. Planning permission has been granted to allow for the re-development of the centre which is part of a wider Masterplan which aims to “create a vibrant, sustainable community, with quality housing, excellent environment, and good connections to employment opportunities together with improved retail and community facilities.” The main entrance to the new building will be from St Brides Way, off Shrewsbury Street. The impressive entrance will lead directly to the community facilities including library, Sure Start and Credit Union. The ground floor will also provide a pharmacy and café. New meeting rooms and a community hall with modern facilities will be available for the community and partners to hire. The current plan is to provide state-of-the-art health facilities on the first floor level of the building. This is likely to include a new GP surgery with a range of complementary health facilities. The Extra Care apartments will provide an environment where over 55s and people with support
View from Shrewsbury Stree t
View from Clifton Street
needs can continue to live independently, secure in the knowledge that all their needs will be taken care of by a team of professional people. The back of the building has been designed to reflect the contemporary image of the Logan's tower blocks and will be built over four storeys with excellent views of the fields. The new community hall can be accessed from this side, as well as via the main entrance. State-of-the-art changing facilities will also be provided. Shrewsbury Street is now at the exciting design phase where, with the continuing involvement of the community, we will ensure it really makes a difference to local people. We are always looking for people to come up with ideas for the new building and if you are interested in being involved please email thebigconversation@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk The current users of the community centre have been temporarily relocated within Old Trafford. Full details, venues and times can be found on our website. www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Fire safety for residents Greater Manchester Fire Service attend more than 12,000 fires every year. Most fires actually start accidentally. Trafford Housing Trust does a lot of work behind the scenes to make sure that you are at minimum risk of fire. Here are some things you can do to ensure you keep you and your family safe: • Test your smoke alarm - never disable it or take the batteries out • Know your escape route - take 5 minutes to decide on your escape route and let everyone that lives with you know • If you can’t get out, get everyone into a room with a window, keep as visible as possible, block the door with blankets to stop smoke coming in and call 999 • Avoid smoking in doors, but if you do, make sure you put it out - right out! Many fires are started by cigarettes
If there is a fire in your flat: 1 Warn everybody and leave the flat, staying together if possible 2 Leave as quickly as possible via the nearest fire exit 3 Close doors behind you, especially your front door 4 Stay close to the ground to avoid smoke 5 Call 999 from outside, give the address of the building and ask for the local Fire Brigade 6 Do not go back inside - tell the Fire Brigade if anyone is missing
If there is a fire outside your flat: 1 Stay inside your home. This is the safest place to be when the fire is outside your flat 2 Get everyone into one room, preferably with a window that opens 3 Ensure the Fire Brigade has been contacted as soon as possible, call 999
• Keep communal hallways and exits clear of any obstruction, trip hazards or potentially toxic substances
4 Close all doors and block smoke by putting cushions, towels or bedding at the bottom of the door to reduce draughts
• Ensure electrical appliances, such as hair straighteners and laptops are completely switched off when not in use
5 Open any windows, unless it allows smoke into your home
If you live in a property with shared communal areas, such as stairwell and communal entrances, we have put together a list of what to do in the event of a fire.
24 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
6 Stay near to a window so that you are visible If you would like more support or advice regarding fire safety in your home, please contact your Neighbourhood Partner or the Fire Service who offer a home safety check.
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
TIME TO TEST
You are at least four times more likely to die in a fire in your home if you have no working smoke alarm Why not test your smoke alarms on the first of every month? Then you know that they are working and you can tick it off your ‘to do’ list – before it’s too late.
Over 200 people in England die each year in fires in their homes. These are often caused by smoking materials, cooking accidents, candles and faulty electrical appliances – especially heaters – and wiring.
These simple steps can reduce the risk of fire and keep everyone safer: Fit smoke alarms on every level of your home
Test them on the 1st of every month and never take out the batteries
Plan your escape route and make sure everyone knows it
Put cigarettes out – right out – and never smoke in bed
Take extra care in the kitchen and never leave cooking unattended
Make a bedtime check last thing at night to reduce fire risks – eg unplug heaters
Never try to tackle a fire yourself
If a fire breaks out in your home Get out, stay out and call 999 www.gov.uk/firekills www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
FEATURE
Welcome to our new Non-Executive Directors The Trust is run by a Board of 10 Non-Executive Directors who are tasked with leading the business and ensuring it delivers its promises to customers. The Board is made up of customers, councillors from Trafford Council and other candidates with an independent view point. They have a wide variety of skills and experiences to share between them, due to their diverse backgrounds, which we believe adds to the strength of the Trust’s leadership. We are happy to welcome three new recruits to the Board and here are their profiles:
New Board Directors Angela Bolton and Claire Baker.
Tesco’s Compliance Manager, Angela Bolton, 43, became a Trust leaseholder under the shared ownership scheme when she moved to Lostock two years ago with her partner Colin and Jack, a 16 year old West Highland white terrier who loves the garden. “I got a leaflet through the door and did a bit of research on the Trust, and called in to find out what being on the Board entailed. This is my community and I love it here so I thought, why not get involved?”
Angela Bolton
“I was impressed at how open everyone was. The office is a very friendly environment. The thing that really got me was the real desire to engage with customers. Working in retail I understand how difficult it is to get feedback from people, and that’s when they’re walking through the store every day. It’s much harder to get that dialogue when you don’t see the customers on a regular basis, but the Trust works very hard to be customer focused.” Angela loves her allotment, which she shares with a friend. “The community spirit down there is brilliant” she says. Spending 15 hours a week on her patch, she’s currently growing vegetables with a Caribbean theme including yams as well as more traditional fare such as potatoes, parsnips and carrots. When at home Angela is also handy with the sewing machine.
26 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
FEATURE Claire has been a Trafford resident all her life, and a Trust tenant for 11 years. The 29 year old community psychiatric nurse specialises in helping children and adolescents. She’s also studying for a postgraduate degree in Improving Access to Psychological Therapies at Manchester University. “I take pride in being an active member of the community in many ways, including objecting to the closure of hospital departments. I’m also a keen member of the social group ‘Keep Trafford Green and Clean’.”
Claire Baker
Talking about her experience of the Trust since joining the Board, Claire says: “The thing I’ve been most impressed with is how the Trust runs as a business. Although the business is about social need, it’s important for it to operate commercially so money can be saved and ploughed back into helping the community.” Claire is also impressed with the caring nature of the business and the ways in which it invests in the communities in Trafford, which benefits everyone not just THT tenants. For the past seven years Claire has volunteered at residential summer camps for Over the Wall, a charity that helps children with life limiting and threatening illnesses. She helps with drama activities and finds these experiences extremely rewarding and heart-warming. In her spare time she runs for a local running club.
Sean is the Leader of Trafford Council and is ward councillor for Bowdon. Aged just 20 when elected in 2008, he quickly rose to become the Council’s youngest ever executive member, responsible for finance in 2010 and deputy leader in 2013. He believes regenerating town centres and improving transport infrastructure are two top priorities. In addition to Council responsibilities, he is the Trafford representative and Vice Chairman of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority where he holds the lead portfolio for Skills, Employment and Worklessness and is also a Member of the Board of the Manchester Growth Company and the Skills and Employment Partnership. Sean holds a BA (Hons) in Business Management, has a particular interest in Corporate & Global Strategy, is a Member of the Chartered Management Institute and has been employed in the financial services sector since 2003.
Sean Anstee
Sean was born and raised in Partington and attended Broadoak High School. Sean’s personal interests include walking and spending time with friends and family. He is an identical twin, has a dog called Stanley, supports Manchester City and lives with his civil partner in Sale.
www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
IN EVERY ISSUE
An Update from Localities with
Elaine Johnson, Managing Director of Localities
Elaine Johnson
The Localities team exists to transform communities, bringing investment and enterprise together with people and places to inspire, innovate and create opportunity.
How do we do this? We work with people and partner organisations to improve life chances, by maximising the investment and enterprise into local communities.
We have five specific aims: • To enable local people to make the transition into paid employment through our connections with partners and employers • To build ambition, capacity and partnerships to enable the Third Sector to be innovative and sustainable • To support the Trust’s Community Panels to become best practice community funding organisations • To create opportunities to inspire children and young people to make a valuable contribution and reach their full potential • To create imaginative and sustainable spaces which meet the needs, aspirations and ambitions of all local people
28 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
Elaine Johnson, Managing Director of Localities explains: The real role of the Localities team is to know the communities in Trafford, to understand their strengths and needs and then link this to the people and organisations that can invest in them. Investment in this context does not just mean money, although that often helps, it is also about investment of time, energy, expertise and enterprise.
Community Panel bids opened on the 19th September and run until the end of October, see our website for details.
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
IN EVERY ISSUE
You said, we did Old Trafford
Old Trafford
Sale
Random clothing containers in the Old Trafford area were on our land without planning permission. They were causing obstructions and making the area unsafe as well as taking up parking spaces. They were also ruining the green spaces around the borough.
It was hard getting to know your new neighbours.
It is so hard to park your car at Gatley Road.
All the new residents of the new builds on Stretford and Essex Way have been brought together to get to know their neighbours and to start a new Trafford Residents' Assocation. The focus is to deal with any issues they may face in the block and to improve the quality of living.
The brand new Gatley Road Parking Scheme is now complete and looks very good and has been well received by the local residents.
The Neighbourhood Partner worked very hard to have the company remove the containers over a number of weeks and they have now all been removed.
Urmston You said it would be nice to have a bench to sit on in Ely Gardens. We installed a bench in Ely Gardens for all to take time out to relax and watch the world go by.
Urmston You said the area at the junction of Moss Vale Road and Winchester Road needs clearing. We cleared the site and fitted new fencing.
Stretford A customer living in the Broseley Road area had been a victim of repeat burglary. She was a lone female and felt very scared coming into her property at night, particularly when she finished her night shift as a student paramedic. The Neighbourhood Partner worked in partnership with the police to provide advice about security and provided her with equipment such as window and door alarms. Also a fence and gate were erected to secure the access area to her rear garden. The customer was really happy and advised she felt so much more secure.
Picture perfect
This photo was taken by Sophie Foster of School Walk Old Trafford. It’s a photo of Rainbow Park with an amazing Double Rainbow! Thank you Sophie for sending in your picture, if you have a inspiring image to share with us please send it to editor@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Stretford Complaints were received about fly-tipping on the Cherry Tree estate. The Neighbourhood Partner worked with TMBC and produced a flyer for residents advising what to do if they see anyone fly-tipping. The local children got involved by circulating the leaflet to residents. The Neighbourhood Partner closely monitors this area and fly-tipping has been reduced.
Altrincham A tenant at Lloyds Court had been a victim of bogus callers and as a result, felt vulnerable in their home. The Neighbourhood Partner worked alongside partner agencies to hold a community safety event. The event was held in conjunction with G Force, the Council and Sure Start. Bogus caller leaflets were distributed around the neighbourhood and a door knocking exercise took place advising residents on how to keep safe.
www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
IN EVERY ISSUE
Training Opportunities
At the Trust we are always looking at ways to help you develop your skills and knowledge, whether through formal training or more practical skills. Below are the latest courses we are running. October
Money Matters
Wednesday 15th October 1pm – 3pm The course will give you skills to be able to manage your money and budget your finances.
Free
courses for tenants
Child Protection
Tuesday 21st October 10am – 1pm This course is designed to raise awareness of child protection issues. It will allow workers in residential or community settings to explore and develop an understanding of safeguarding children and provide candidates with the knowledge and skills to deal with child protection situations.
Do you know what your child is doing online?
Thursday 23rd October 4.30pm – 6.30pm This course is aimed at parents, children and young people to find out how to be safe online.
Children’s Deaf Awareness
Tuesday 28th October 10am – 12 noon Children will learn how to communicate effectively with deaf people and get involved in activities to experience deafness. November
Card Making
Thursday 6th November 6pm – 8pm Come along to our card making session and make some cards just in time for Christmas.
Minute Training
Monday 10th November 10am – 11.30am This course will provide you with skills to be able to take minutes of meetings.
30 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
IT Course
Every Monday from 10th November till 8th December 6pm - 8pm *subject to number of attendees, enrolment required on 3rd November 5.30pm This course will cover basic IT skills on how to use a computer and navigate the internet.
Food Hygiene (Accredited Level 2)
Thursday 13th November 10am – 3pm Is your kitchen safe? Is your food safe? Do you know about bacteria in food and how it is created? This accredited course will teach you all you need to know about food handling and hygiene.
Secretary Training
Thursday 20th November 10.30am – 12 noon This course will provide you with knowledge of the role and responsibilities of being a secretary. December
First Aid Training (Accredited Level 2) Tuesday 2nd December 10am - 3pm This accredited course will give you the knowledge and skills you need to help someone in an emergency situation.
Defibrillator Training (Accredited Level 2)
Tuesday 9th December 10am – 3pm This course will provide you with resuscitation skills and explain how to use a defibrillator and the safety aspects when using this equipment.
Christmas Chocolate and Sweet Making Course
Tuesday 9th December 6pm – 8pm This course will allow you to be able to make your own Christmas chocolates and sweets just in time for Christmas. gettinginvolved@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
IN EVERY ISSUE
Don’t see a course you want to do? January 2015
Deaf Awareness
Thursday 15th January 10am – 12 noon Learn how to communicate effectively with deaf people and get involved in activities to experience deafness.
Presentation Skills
Thursday 29th January 5.30pm - 7.30pm This Presentation Skills Training Workshop will support each participant in understanding how to be effective in applying key principles in order to deliver a confident presentation to any audience. February 2015
Effective Monitoring and Evaluation of Projects
Tuesday 3rd February 5.30pm – 7.30pm Strengthen your skills in supporting the monitoring and evaluation of projects and programmes.
Skills and Training Testimonials “Excellent Course, best one I’ve been on.”
Suggest one.
To suggest a course for our next Skills and Training calendar, for more information or to book any of the courses, please call the Customer Hub (ask to speak to Amy Nield) or email gettinginvolved@ traffordhousingtrust.co.uk We are now offering an online booking service, where you can book yourself directly onto your chosen course. Visit bit.ly/Skills4U or our website. Most courses are held at: Sale Point, 126-150 Washway Road, M33 6AG. The course venue will be confirmed on booking. Please note, all courses are subject to change or cancellation at our discretion. A small charge may apply to individuals who are not tenants or leaseholders. Taxis are only available to tenants who have a disability or mobility issue or who find public transport impractical.
Paul Huxley First Aid Course
First Aid course gr oup
www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
IN EVERY ISSUE
Tips to save you time and money sticks out
not square
Hints and tips:
maintenance of your home In every issue, the Quality and Insight panel gives tips on how to side or middle gap do basic DIY jobs. This issue: Adjusting kitchen cupboard doors If the door sticks out, is not straight or has a gap, then here are some easy steps to fix it. You will need a small screwdriver (usually a ‘Philips’ crosshead type). Do all adjustments with the door fully open and if possible get someone to hold the door while you do the work.
top or bottom gap
C B
C B
A
A
C
C
If one door sticks out further than the other: 1. Loosen screw B (one turn anti-clockwise) on both the top and bottom hinges
180˚ hinge
90˚ hinge
2. Move the door to the correct position 3. Tighten screw B on both hinges If doors are not square with the cupboards: 1. T urn screw A gradually clockwise or anti-clockwise to lift or drop the door until you get it to the correct position. You may need to loosen screw B a little to allow the door to move
sticks out
not square
side or middle gap
top or bottom gap
2. Tighten screws A and B when you have finished If there is a gap where the door meets the cupboard: 1. F or a gap at the side or the middle, turn screw A on both hinges by the same amount in the same direction until the door fits correctly 2. F or a gap at the top or the bottom, loosen screw C on both hinges. Adjust the door until it is in the correct position. Tighten up both screws 32 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
C
C
Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
IN EVERY ISSUE
Employment matters The Trust Vacancy Bulletin The Trust are interested in hearing from tenants looking for a new job or change of career. If you are unemployed, self-employed or employed and looking for work in:
• Care • Customer Services • Construction then please let us know and we will add you to a mailing list which will update you on current vacancies with employers in these industries. Please contact the Customer Hub and ask to be added to the vacancy bulletin mailing list.
Talent Match, helping young people find work Do you want to be a part of something? Are you not in education, employment or training?
Do you live in Trafford? Are you aged 18-24?
There are various opportunities that you could tap into:
Do you want the chance of some exclusive opportunities?
• Apprenticeships and placements across the North West • Opportunities to be involved with a £16 million new development in Old Trafford • Volunteering and training opportunities • One to one mentoring If you are interested in any of the above, please contact the Customer Hub and state you are interested in Talent Match.
Trafford Pledge can help you get into work A new initiative called Trafford Pledge is offering young people aged 16-24 help with getting a job. This can be through work experience with a local business, being given support through a business mentor, preparing for interviews and having support with your CV, in preparation for applying for a job.
Anyone interested in getting involved should speak to their local Job Centre for more information. We are working in partnership with Trafford College, Trafford Council, Connexions, Your Housing and the DWP on this project. www.traffordhousingtrust.co.uk
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Trafford Housing Trust Pulse Autumn 2014
Woodsend, Urmston & Old Trafford family fun days Over 400 e people cam nd to Woodse rers Trafford Ca raised over £100 Henshaws Society for the blind attended an d provided information, support and advice.
Urmston Sc outs (Explo rers) also raised money for th eir charity at th e event. 1276 people came to Old Trafford Over 45 diffe rent organisation s attended
e Farm Trust The Children’s Adventur and collected attended Old Trafford s for their charity, over 300 cans of bean s and activities which provides holiday people. for children and young
A big th ank you to a ll who attende d and got invo lved
e ‘Motivat ’ to Create sold
terprise Social En as cupcakes over 100 ne of the part of o am Youth Te projects
34 Customer Hub 0300 777 7777 (Monday to Friday 8am–8pm)
customer.hub@traffordhousingtrust.co.uk