In Touch Issue 91 Autumn 2017

intouch AUTUMN 2017 | ISSUE 91| FREE

The magazine for residents of Wales & West Housing

In this issue...

Growth Fire safety review Making a Difference Awards 2018 Pension Credit Restaurant logo

Cycling 350km across Wales for Age Cymru N O I AT N E

TH E ID

R

Ride the Nation 2017 from Ewloe to Newcastle Emlyn to Cardiff takes place 23-26 September.

Over 350km and 4500m of ascent, that’s half of Everest!

All support is appreciated and will make those hills that little bit more bearable.

Donate by visiting: www.justgiving.com/companyteams/wwh

Editor’s Letter and Contents| intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 03

Welcome Dear Residents

Welcome to the Autumn issue of InTouch – the magazine exclusively for residents of Wales & West Housing.

The theme for this issue is “Growth”, as it is a year since we welcomed our West Wales residents to the association. You will see how, in the last year, we have begun to deliver what we promised, with a major investment in upgrading work which is seeing 350 new kitchens, 250 new bathrooms and thousands of new windows and doors installed in many of the homes previously managed by Tai Cantref in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion.

We have also invested in homes in Powys, with our 1000th home in the county. Our In the Pipeline section (page 9) gives you an idea of what is being put forward for planning proposals across Wales.

Following London’s Grenfell Tower tragedy, we have worked tirelessly to conduct an in-depth fire safety review of all of our schemes and, as a result, we can confidently say that none of our properties have any aluminium composite material that was used on Grenfell Tower.

The year has flown as we announce the call for nominations for our next Making a Difference Awards. The ceremony, which will take place on 9 March 2018, will celebrate our residents’ community spirit, courage, enterprise and kindness. I look forward to seeing your nominations.

Over the Summer we have carried out a review of InTouch and how it might be improved – thank you to those who took part in that survey. The results will be made known in the Winter issue of InTouch.

We love hearing from you, so please email your stories to us (along with a photo, where possible) or simply ring us. Email contactus@wwha.co.uk or speak to our PR & Communications Team on 0800 052 2526.

Happy reading and take care as the nights draw in this Autumn!

Anne Hinchey, Chief Executive

Contents Growth Wordsearch Grenfell Tower update Behind the scenes…

Restaurant logo Going Green Go Crafty Quarterly Report Making a Difference Awards Making a Difference to your Community Money Matters Autumn Recipe Charity Update Making a Difference to Your Future Social Media What’s On Your News & Views

Follow us on twitter

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@wwha

Did you know that you can now get more news and updates online?

Other languages and formats If you would like a copy of this edition of In Touch in Welsh or in another language or format, for example in large print, please let us know and we will help you.

Contact Us

Wales & West Housing, Archway House, 77 Parc Tŷ Glas, Llanishen, Cardiff CF14 5DU Telephone: 0800 052 2526 Text: 07788 310420 Email: contactus@wwha.co.uk Website: www.wwha.co.uk You can also contact members of staff direct by their email. For example, joe.bloggs@wwha.co.uk

04 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Growth

ONE YEAR ON...

A year ago we merged with Tai Cantref with the promise to make a difference to the 1500 households in West Wales and the staff based in Newcastle Emlyn In that time we have invested in training and workshops to bring together our similar cultures and values and build on the best from both organisations.

We are proud of the progress we have made so far. We have listened to what matters to our new residents across the Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, Powys and Carmarthenshire local authority areas and have shaped our services to meet their needs.

We are:

Investing in your homes We have surveyed properties and listened to residents to find out what they need to bring their homes above and beyond the quality standards set by the Welsh Government.

As a result we have committed to a £10 million programme of major works to modernise our homes across West Wales from now until 2020.

Investing in local people In addition to preserving the jobs at the West Wales office at Cwrt Y Llan, Newcastle Emlyn, we have created six new jobs.

Three operatives work for our in-house maintenance company Cambria based in West Wales. They will complement our existing contractors as we increase the investment in the local economy from £1 million to £2.5 million a year.

We have also recruited a Commercial Manager, based in Newcastle Emlyn, a Housing Assistant and Neighbourhood Dispute Officer to increase our staff and help residents with tenancy issues.

Investing in local business In the next three years we will be increasing the investment in the local West Wales economy from £1 million to £2.5 million. We continue to use the local contractors that have worked

Growth | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 05 West Wales staff members Carol Scourfield, Rhian Williams and Ann Tyson at the 2017 WWH staff Conference

for Tai Cantref for many years and are supporting them to deliver our investment programme.

By the end of the year we hope to launch our new fully bilingual website for residents.

Investing in our language

Investing in technology

We made a commitment to strengthen our bilingual services so that former Tai Cantref residents could continue to use Welsh where this was their preferred language.

Behind-the-scenes we have introduced new computers and phone systems at our West Wales office for more efficient communications between our head office in Cardiff and our North Wales office in Ewloe.

At our West Wales office Welsh is the first language and more than half the staff are Welsh speakers with more learning. Our operations and services are delivered in Welsh. We also support staff by funding a range of learning from night classes to courses at work and one-to-one tuition.

Across the whole organisation, more of our resident communications, business documents and staff communications are now produced bilingually.

We have extended our 24-hour 0800 number for all residents in West Wales.

This new technology allows residents to connect to their local housing staff as before – but free of charge and quicker.

They can also report emergency repairs any time of day or night. It also allows for a more efficient response.

Already we are getting positive feedback from our new residents in West Wales, who say they are pleased with the things we are doing that are making a difference.

06 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Growth

NEW HOMES FOR

WEST WALES

Local builders move on site at Dan y Bryn, Fishguard Work has started on our first new homes to be built in West Wales.

A pair of two bedroom semi-detached houses are being developed on spare ground at the end of a cul-desac on the Dan y Bryn scheme in Fishguard, Pembrokeshire.

Due to be finished next February, the new homes will bring the

total number of homes on the site to 61.

The total project is estimated to be costing £269,000 with £155,000 of funding from Welsh Government grant.

Pembrokeshire County Council has also approved WWH’s plans to create 30 new homes at Penwallis Road, south of Fishguard town centre.

The 1.5 hectare site is overlooking Fishguard Bay and close to our schemes at Gwelfor and Dan Y Bryn.

Work on the £4 million development is expected to start in November.

It will be a mix of 7 x 3 bedroom houses, 12 x 2 bedroom houses, 6 x 1 bedroom flats and 5 x 2 bedroom bungalows.

Growth | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 07

Lesley Griffiths AM enjoys a cuppa with Jason O'Brien and Anne Hinchey

Cabinet Secretary visits home grown timber scheme Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths was impressed when she visited Cwrt Rhos Fynach in Rhos on Sea, as it is one of the first of its kind to be built from home grown timber.

Cwrt Rhos Fynach (Monk’s Marsh Court) comprises 7 x 1 bed and 4 x 2 bed high quality apartments housing 26 residents.

Most developments use imported wood as it is in greater supply, but WWH wants to build more homes using home grown wood, creating more jobs in the local community and keeping the money in Wales.

The wood chosen for the £947,504 development, with £590,320 funding from the Welsh Government, is home grown Sitka spruce wood that comes from a sawmill in Newbridge-on-Wye, mid-Wales. 112 trees were used in total and 32 people were employed.

WWH, supported by Conwy County Borough Council, contracted Williams Homes (Bala) Ltd to undertake the construction work.

The Cabinet Secretary met Jason O’Brien, 37, a keen kayaker, who wanted to live near the sea. Jason said: “I love the character and shape

of the apartment, with its high ceilings making it feel spacious. I love living here, being able to look out to the sea.”

Lesley Griffiths, Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs, said: “I hope other house builders will look at what WWH have done and start to use home grown timber for their own developments.

This would support supply chains across Wales and reduce our reliance on imported timber. With an ever increasing demand for housing this is the right time to be championing this and doing all we can to support the timber industry in Wales.”

08 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Growth

Cardiff pub site makes way for new homes

L-R: Chris Lay and Michael Michael, Cardiff Councillors for Trowbridge, WWH Chief Executive Anne Hinchey, Jeff Jones, Project Manager for Pendragon Design & Build, Dan Cook and Jodine Bishop, WWH Officers

New affordable homes are rising up from the ashes of the former Hendre Pub in Cardiff.

WWH is building 14 new homes on the site of the pub, which was demolished in 2014 after a series of fires.

Work on the £2 million development off Hendre Road has started and is due for completion next Spring.

The development is made up of 2 two bed bungalows, 6 one bed flats, 4 two bed and 2 three bed houses.

It is being made possible thanks to a partnership with Cardiff City Council and £1.2 million Welsh Government Social Housing Grant.

Trowbridge councillors Michael Michael and Chris Lay were given a tour of the site with WWH Chief Executive Anne Hinchey and site managers from contractors Pendragon Design and Build.

Cllr Michael said: “We are desperate for good quality social housing in Trowbridge and that is exactly what this development will bring.”

Cllr Lay added: “Since the pub was burned down, there has been a problem with fly tipping and litter in the area.

So these houses are a welcome replacement.

“With plans for a new parkway rail station at St Mellons and 10,000 new jobs coming to the area,

these homes will be in demand.”

Chief Executive Anne Hinchey said: “These are the first new family homes WWH has built in Cardiff in almost 10 years and shows our commitment to bring warm, safe and affordable homes to the capital.”

“We currently own almost 3,500 affordable homes across Cardiff and our aim is for everyone to have a home that they can be proud of, in a place they want to live.

“Our ambition is to build 1000 more energy efficient new homes across Wales in the next five years and invest £250 million in our Welsh homes and communities.”

Growth| intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 09

Our 1000th home in Powys WWH is celebrating its commitment to provide affordable housing across Powys with its 1000th home in the county.

WWH has acquired around 100 properties from the Wolverhampton-based Bromford Housing Association, bringing its total number of homes in Powys to more than 1000. The homes are in Llandrindod Wells, Welshpool and Newtown.

In Llandrindod Wells WWH already owns Christchurch Court retirement scheme in the town centre and Finch Court and Llys Heulog in the north of the town.

It has added more than 40 homes mostly centred around Lon Cwm to its stock with properties at Gilmour Court and Llyn Ddu House in Welshpool and Cae Camlas in Newtown.

Chief Executive Anne Hinchey said: “We strive to be more than a landlord. Our housing officers work closely with residents in their local communities to help them manage their finances, pay their rent on time, achieve their aspirations and ultimately feel safe and secure in their homes.

"We are now able to extend those local services to our new residents in Powys.”

IN THE PIPELINE North Wales Rhosymedre, Cefn, Wrexham: Work has started on 30 affordable houses Coed Onn Road, Oakenholt: 23 homes are to be built – 2/3 bungalows and 20 houses for general needs.

Victoria Garage, Ruabon: Planning permission to be sought for four houses Grange Hotel, Rhyl: Planning permission has been given for more than 40 apartments for the over 55s on the site of the former Grange Hotel.

Mid Wales Cae Glas, Welshpool: Planning permission is being sought for six bungalows which will provide much needed, high quality accommodation backed up with 24 hour care and support for adults.

South Wales St Paul’s Church, Grangetown: Cardiff: Planning permission granted for 12 apartments within the nave of the church and two additional homes in the church grounds.

Parc Farm, Coity, Bridgend: Planning permission granted to build 24 homes

Llyn Ddu House, Welshpool

West Wales Parrog, Pembrokeshire: Planning permission being sought for eight affordable homes on the site of the former pottery and yard.

10 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Growth

Work has started to clean up homes on the Gwelfor scheme in Fishguard.

The 32 homes in the area suffer from red algae, a fungus which thrives on moisture and salt in the air and affects the render on the outside of many homes in seaside areas.

It is a problem that affects many coastal areas and causes the properties to look unsightly.

Llandysul-based contractors WCS Environmental & Building Maintenance started work on site in August as part

of a ÂŁ150,000 programme for the area.

The work is due to be completed by the end of October.

First they will clean off the algae on the render using specialist chemicals.

Once it is dry they will repaint all the exterior walls. They will also work on the fascias and soffits.

Before the work began residents were given the chance to meet staff on site and choose which colour they wanted from the options of white, grey or cream. The most popular choice was grey, followed by cream, then white.

Growth | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 11

Out with the red

Resident Rachael Lewis (inset) moved into her home a year ago. She said: “It’s good to see something is being done here. It’s not just cosmetic work, a lot of the general maintenance like new fences is also being reviewed and done.

“I have bought new pots for my garden, so once the work is done I can put them out and have some pride in my home again. After 12 months it will be like having a new home.”

The work is part of a £10 million refurbishment programme for homes

across West Wales, planned for the next three years. The upgrade work will include 350 new kitchens, 250 new bathrooms and thousands of new windows and doors being fitted and installed in more than 1500 homes previously managed by Tai Cantref in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion.

There is also a door and window replacement programme scheduled for Gwelfor residents in 2019 as part of a three-year investment plan.

12 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Growth

Aimie makes the right move

Aimie Johnston, 32, has never looked back since she moved into a brand new two- bedroomed house at Tir Glas, Greenfield, Flintshire with her 19 month-old son Parker and puppy, Hugo.

“This is my first house and it couldn’t be better,” says Aimie, who used to live with her mum around the corner.

“I saw the signs going up about three years ago for the development and made general enquiries about it. When I got pregnant with Parker, I applied to live there, as there wasn’t enough space to live in my mum’s home. In March 2016 Housing Officer AnnMarie Rastin got in touch

with me and I confirmed my interest.

“In January this year I got a phone call to ask if I would like to move in the following week!

“I got the keys to my new home the day after my birthday – I was just blown away! Having suffered from a lot of ups and downs with social anxiety, this home has given me a fresh start. I have a new home, baby and puppy!”

Aimie was pleased with all the support WWH gave her, having a Home User Guide to help her settle in. “Tom Torok explained about snagging possibilities on new homes and Housing Assistant Karen Boyce

had already gone through my tenancy agreement sign-up before the move, making it easier on the day. Paying by direct debit also means I don’t have to think about my rent each month.

“The boiler was on so the house wasn’t cold and I had already arranged for the carpets to be laid before my belongings followed. Even the energy efficient lightbulbs were in – these are the things you don’t always remember when moving.”

And what about her neighbours? “They’re lovely – they all seem very happy, and with a play area nearby, Parker will always have a friend to play with.”

Wordsearch | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 13

Autumn Wordsearch

Win £30 shopping voucher with our Autumn Wordsearch This issue's Wordsearch is all about housing. All the words may be found backwards, forwards, horizontal, vertical or diagonal.

All correct entries will be put into a prize draw and one will be chosen as the lucky winner of a £30 One for All shopping voucher. Simply send your entry with your name, address and contact details to Jane Burgess, Wales & West Housing, Ty Draig, St David's Park, Ewloe, Deeside CH5 3DT. The closing date for entries is 31 October.

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Summer Wordsearch winner Congratulations to resident Kim Daniels of Heol Treharne, Coytrahen, near Bridgend, who won a £30 voucher in our Summer Wordsearch competition.

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BOILER CENTRAL HEATING COMMUNITY COMPLAINTS DEVELOPMENT DOOR ELECTRIC ENVIRONMENT FAMILY GARDEN GAS HEATING HOME HOUSES HOUSING OFFICER INCOME MAINTENANCE NOISE OIL RENT REPAIRS RESIDENT SOLAR PANEL SUPPORT TENANCY WINDOW

14 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | WWH News & Info

Residents reassured after Grenfell Tower fire We have completed an in-depth fire safety review of all our properties to reassure residents following the tragic events at Grenfell Tower.

The initial focus after the Grenfell Tower fire was on high rise accommodation. We have two schemes that we would deem to be high rise; Caerau Court (eight storeys) in Ely, Cardiff and West Lee, Canton (six storeys).

Caerau Court was refurbished in 2014 and, following the recommendations from the 2009 Lakanal House fire, now has a full sprinkler system to complement the existing full fire detection cover. The cladding on this building is mineral wool and render.

West Lee is not a typical high rise

building as all properties exit to open air along open walkways so does not present the same level of risk.

We acted quickly to reassure the residents of these properties regarding fire safety and in addition Property Services, Compliance and Safety Managers carried out a thorough review of all properties to look at fire safety including cladding materials, fire stopping, compartmentation, fire detection and all other aspects that might influence fire spread.

As a result of this we can confidently say that none of our properties have any aluminium composite material (ACM) of the same type that was used on the Grenfell Tower in London.

WWH News & Info | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 15

Five ways to keep your home safe 1. Keep communal areas clear at all times.

2. Ensure fire doors are not wedged or propped open.

3. Report any damage or faults to the repairs team.

4. Make sure detectors in your property are not damaged or disconnected in any way.

5. If a fire breaks out in your home leave your home closing all doors behind you.

Do not collect personal belongings. Then, call 999.

In addition the evacuation approach was considered and in the majority of cases we are confident that delayed evacuation is the safest strategy. Our review has reinforced that compartmentation is sound and measures are in place to contain any fire in the area where it started. This approach has been supported by Fire and Rescue services, when they have audited our schemes and blocks of flats.

We have been carrying out annual fire risk assessments (FRAs) at 280 of our schemes since the Regulatory Reform Order came into force in 2005. These assessments are carried out by in house staff who have all undertaken internationally recognised training courses and whose primary role is to

ensure that all these properties are well maintained. We have had an ongoing programme of works over a number of years to install extra precautions as they are recommended by the FRA and this will continue for as long as is necessary.

The organisation has built a strong relationship with fire and rescue services across Wales, who have endorsed our approach to fire safety.

Throughout August and September we will have contacted all our residents in the 280 schemes, setting out the details of all the safety measures in their homes, the routine precautions we undertake and the things they can do to keep themselves and their families safe.

16 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | WWH News & Info

Behind the scenes...

at our Customer Service Centre

Ever wondered what happens when you ring our 0800 number?

Their longest serving member has been there for nearly 29 years.

In our Cardiff head office there is a team of Customer Services Assistants ready to help with residents’ enquiries.

From paying rent to reporting emergency repairs, they are there to help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“We get lots of unusual calls, but I think the oddest one was someone who had an escaped snake under the bath,” confessed one Customer Services Assistant.

They answer more than 18,000 phone calls each month, each one picked up within 43 seconds on average. And when everyone has gone home they also handle emergency repair calls from 14 other Welsh housing associations.

But they don’t just take telephone calls; they also look after the wellbeing of residents, monitoring emergency alarm equipment for nearly 8,500 of the most vulnerable residents across the whole of Wales. These customers are both residents of WWH and other housing associations – there are approximately 17,000 alarm activations every month and the assistants contact ambulance, fire service or police on average 20 times in every 24 hours to make sure people get the help they need, when they need it.

Between them the 32 members of the team have many years of experience.

“When the weather is bad we are at our busiest, with lots of calls for emergency repairs to things like leaky roofs, loose tiles, power cuts or broken garden fences. Anything that would cause a risk to people or property would be classed as an emergency.

“You have to be on the ball as you don’t know what is coming next.

One call could be someone wanting to make a rent payment. The next you could have someone who has collapsed and will need an ambulance.

“For some of our older residents, we might be the only person they speak to that day, so it’s hard not to get attached to some people even though we have never met them.

“Although it is a high pressure job, it is still rewarding especially when the caller is in desperate need and you know that your actions have made a difference to their day or even saved a life.”

WWH News & Info | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 17

"It’s great to see my logo on the restaurant.”

Liam unveils restaurant logo Ysgol Penmorfa pupils were so inspired after visiting Nant y Môr extra care scheme that they came up with a name and a logo for the restaurant.

Youngsters aged between 5 and 11 from the School Council visited the scheme earlier and, working with the residents, used their creative skills to work on a project to name and design a logo for the restaurant.

The logos were so good that several were shortlisted. Liam Astley, 11, was thrilled to hear that his name Mountain View and logo had won when it was announced in a school assembly. He was invited to unveil the logo at Nant y Môr with the School Council and residents.

Liam said: “This is awesome – I couldn’t believe I had won and it’s great to see my logo on the walls and entrance of the restaurant.”

The runners-up were Phoebe Haigh, Darcey Spruce, Aleksander Waszwikwcz and Olivia Marsden.

Teacher Kate Roberts said: "Ysgol Penmorfa is keen to engage with the local community and we were therefore excited when we were approached about this project. It was a heart-warming experience to observe pupils chatting to residents and we look forward to a long and extremely beneficial partnership."

Anne Hinchey, Chief Executive of Wales & West Housing, said: “It’s wonderful to see how residents enjoy meeting the pupils and how the School Council has enjoyed creating a name and logo for the restaurant. Since Nant y Môr opened in 2011, residents have interacted well with the local community.”

18 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Going Green

Ty Brynseion gardens grow

The garden at Ty Brynseion retirement scheme in Merthyr Tydfil has been transformed over the last six months through the hard work and determination of a group of retired active gentlemen.

The idea started with a simple raised bed so the group could create a flower display. This sowed the seed for residents Robert Jones, David Morgan, Brian Griffiths, Joey Ferreira and Rob Jones to create even more colourful displays and plant vegetables.

see the change in the residents who now enjoy the garden and enjoy one another’s company has been wonderful to watch.”

Sarah Willcox, Community Development Project Officer, said: “When I first visited the scheme last year there was very little activity. To

Resident Brian Griffiths said: “We love getting out into the garden and working with one another. The project has made a huge difference to the scheme.”

Gardener Fred's hard work reaps rewards

Staff help children grow vegetables

A keen group of residents at Wilfred Brook have spent the last year transforming their communal garden and now they are reaping the rewards with a beautiful outdoor area to sit in.

Staff from our Newcastle Emlyn office volunteered their time to help tidy up the community garden at Glannant in Llechryd.

Resident Fred Venables planted a beautiful array of flowers with the help of neighbours Helena Cowhig, Jean Meredith, Carol Burness, Mavis Payne and Pat George, who were on hand to give help and advice and make those all-important cups of tea.

Helena Cowhig said: “Fred has worked so hard in the garden; he has spent a lot of money to ensure we all have a lovely environment to sit in.”

Ruby planting blueberries with Adam and Jess

During an event in February the children had said that they would like to grow fruit and vegetables, which they could then eat on their way to school. So, after re-instating the paths, and clearing out all the weeds from the raised bed, staff helped the children plant strawberries, blueberries, peas, lettuces and herbs.

Going Green | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 19

Autumn

gardening tips 1. Sow hardy annuals, such as cerinthes, ammi, scabiosa and cornflowers, for flowers early next Summer.

2. Plant wallflowers, pansies, forgetme-nots and other spring bedding in pots and borders.

3. Collect ripe seeds from your favourite flowers and store in labelled envelopes, ready to sow in Spring.

4. Plant up containers, using cyclamen, heathers, heucheras and other colourful bedding plants.

5. Sow hardy greens, such as kale, land cress, pak choi, mizuna, lamb's lettuce and mustard, for Winter pickings. This can be done on your kitchen windowsill.

6. Pot up herbs, such as chives and parsley, and place on a sunny windowsill to use during Winter.

7. Plant onion and shallot sets in a sunny spot, 10cm apart, with the tip just showing above the soil. They can also be planted in window pots.

Oakmeadow Court

residents are sitting pretty Residents at Oakmeadow Court, St Mellons and volunteers at St Mellons Community Garden in Cardiff have benefited from three park benches.

The benches were at risk of being destroyed during construction of the St Mellons Hub site. But head contractors ISg Construction rescued them through their ‘Considerate Constructors’ community scheme.

Trainees at Cardiff & Vale College were given the opportunity to hone their skills and restore the benches to their former glory before donating them to the gardens at Oakmeadow Court and St Mellons Community Garden.

Rob Boyd, senior site manager at ISg Constructionm, said: “We hope that the benches bring many years of pleasure to the new owners and visitors to the gardens.”

Oakmeadow Court resident Steve Derrett said: “We would like to thank Rob and ISg Construction for considering us for the community scheme.”

20 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Go Crafty

Ricky’s hobby keeps him in shipshape health Ricky James, 74, has never really left his seafaring days when he served as a youth in the Royal Navy and Merchant Navy. Now living in Acrefair, Wrexham, he has made several majestic model historical ships, which are proudly displayed in his home.

Ricky was born during the war in Stepney, London. “I’m a real Cockney,” he says. “The sirens were ringing when I was born. My mum had been ushered to a mortuary as it was one of the safest places for expectant mothers to be, so I was literally born during a bomb raid!”

Ricky left home at 16 and after a number of jobs, he joined the Royal Navy working on a minesweeper for five years. He then joined the Merchant Navy. “I’ve visited 81 countries – my favourite was Israel.”

“My shipbuilding all started when my school pals Binky and Georgie ended up working on the same minesweeper as me when we were in our 20s. Binky used to make plastic ships as a hobby.

“I thought I’d like to do that but make one out of wood instead.

So I got the plans of the Queen Mary and, through trial and error, eventually learnt how to get it right.

“I have four ships that I’m really proud of – on average they take between 2 and 3 years to build.”

Ricky builds the hull out of plywood first then works on the rib at the bottom of the ship, using single strips of wood. Each strip is carefully glued and nailed in. Ricky even painstakingly irons small pieces of wood to help make it curve round. The rigging is then put on which can take an hour in itself.

On his latest ship he is painting the gun carriages red and the hull cream. Patience is essential.

“Getting the plans of the ships is the most challenging bit. Once you have the plans, you can make a start.”

And his next ship?

“The Titanic, of course!”

Quarterly Report| intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 21

Quarterly Report:

keeping you in the picture Our quarterly report is designed to keep you updated on how we’re doing as an organisation and what we’re doing to improve our services for you – our residents.

These six infographics give key information on how Wales & West Housing is performing in North and South Wales, as you’ll see over the next few pages.

There’s information provided for each of our main systems. These are: • Fix my home • Help me pay • I want a home • Anti-social behaviour • More homes • How we run our business So you can find out everything – from how many homes we’ve built so far this year to how long it takes to fix a repair.

Please take a good look and if you have any comments, let us know by emailing contactus@wwha.co.uk or calling us on 0800 052 2526.

Did you know…?

This includes our infographics, annual report, financial statements, Welsh Government financial viability judgement and Welsh Government regulatory report.

We want you to find all information regarding our performance and future plans easily.

As a result, we’ve put all our reports in one place on our website for you.

To view these reports, visit our website www.wwha.co.uk and click on the ‘our performance’ link on the bottom right of the homepage.

28 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch |Making a Difference Awards

Making a Difference Awards 2018 Now in their tenth year, our Making a Difference Awards celebrate our residents' community spirit, courage, enterprise and kindness - Wales & West Housing style.

Next year, the ceremony will take place at The Vale Resort and Hotel, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, on Friday 9 March 2018, where we’ll once again be joined by our finalists and event sponsors to celebrate the achievements of some very special individuals.

ryl Che field h Litc ayne P ner Win Cheryl Litchfield-Payne, winner of the Steps to Success Award 2017 with Mark Irwin of Envirovent and Sharon Lee, Chair of WWH Board

Making a Difference Awards| intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 29

The Categories Good Neighbour

Fresh Start

This category celebrates the kindness of those special people whose small day to day actions make a big difference to the lives of their neighbours. From lending a helping hand or a listening ear, these warm hearted individuals go out of their way to help others who live near.

Life can be full of ups and downs, so this award recognises those brave people who have made it through tough times and turned things around for the better. This award also recognises those committed individuals who have started on their journey to success by getting back into employment, education or training, to make their dreams a reality. These extraordinary individuals set an example to us all.

Going Green This award category recognises green fingered residents who have made a real difference to their environment.

From growing beautiful floral displays to recycling and reusing goods in the garden, or even producing fruit and veg for others to enjoy, these residents lead the way when it comes to going green.

Wellbeing Champion (new category) This new category recognises the individuals or groups who have either set an example themselves or actively encouraged others to make lifestyle changes to help improve their physical or mental health and wellbeing.

Bridging the Gap (new category) This new category celebrates young and old people working together to make their community a better place or help others less fortunate than themselves.

Their common aim is to learn from each other and bond as a team.

Community Heroes

(new category)

This category is all about those individuals and groups who have started something special in their Wales & West Housing community to benefit those who live there. These projects often help others, bring people together and change the neighbourhood for the better. From running community groups, tackling local issues and raising money for charity - these selfless individuals dedicate their time and efforts to making a difference.

Special 10th Anniversary Award This award will go to an individual or group who have been exceptionally outstanding in their efforts to make a difference.

30 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Making a Difference Awards

There are, undoubtedly, many unsung heroes in our communities who are so deserving of such recognition - and we need YOU to tell us about them by 22 December.

It's easy to nominate - simply speak to your Housing Officer, or contact our PR and Comms Team on Freephone 0800 052 2526 and they’ll take the details for you.

Join HealthWise Wales HealthWise Wales (HWW) is a research initiative that will help NHS Wales plan for the future.

By answering questions about your health and wellbeing you can contribute to research on the prevention and treatment of conditions such as coronary heart disease, diabetes, cancer, mental health and dementia.

If you’re over 16 and live in Wales, HWW needs your help.

Whether you’re young or old, fit or unwell, by registering online you will be asked to answer simple questions about your health and lifestyle every

six months. The information you provide will help the NHS in Wales plan for the future and will protect the health of the nation.

This is your opportunity to be part of shaping the health and wellbeing of future generations in Wales.

To find out more and join, please visit www.healthwisewales.gov.wales, or phone 0800 9 172 172.

Making a Difference to Your Community| intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 31

Youngsters’ new season kicks off to a good start

WWH Procurement Officer Jane Duckers with Deeside Phoenix JFC

Youngsters at Deeside Phoenix JFC are looking forward to kicking off the new football season with seven teams and brand new kit to match, following sponsorship from WWH. The children, who are aged between 5 and 15, proudly wore their kits as they signed up for the new football season.

The club is expanding with more teams, to

encourage youngsters to take up the sport.

Jeff Dawson, Football Coach, said: “Football is a great way of keeping the children off the street to focus on a healthy, positive activity, which is at the heart of our club’s ethos. Our players tend to grow in all sorts of positive ways and through football learn how to work as a team, respect each other and

their surroundings.

“WWH has made a real difference and Deeside Phoenix (as well as the league) really appreciate this support.”

Ethan Dawson, Jeff’s son, said: “I like the logo and the shirt material is cool.”

Jay Duckers said: “I like the colour and feel better wearing a new top.”

32 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Making a Difference to Your Community WWH Housing Officer Ann-Marie Rastin with Popstarz members Kiara Leigh-Poulton and Zach Evans

Youngsters’ voices heard - thanks to our sponsorship A group of youngsters are delighted that their show could go on with better sound equipment thanks to our sponsorship.

A group of 95 children aged between 4 and 17, known as Jaxx Martine’s Popstarz Academy, are a performing arts group based in Bagillt, Flintshire.

The main focus of the group is to build the youngsters’ confidence by giving them the opportunity to perform in shows where they can showcase their talents.

However, since the group started four years ago, and has grown, they needed to buy special stage microphones so that the children’s voices could be heard more clearly. So with two shows planned for June and July, they asked us if we could help.

And we did!

Paula Duncan, who is Principal along with husband Steve, said: “We’re thrilled with the sponsorship. The club is so important to us as it’s for our community and

encourages the children to be active and teaches them all about teamwork.

The new equipment will really make a difference to the sound, so that all their voices can be heard.

When the group first started we only had 17 children – we now have 95 so we’re on the look-out for larger stages where we can perform.”

Kiara-Leigh Poulton, 5, said: “I like the new microphone, although it tickles, my voice is louder!”

Making a Difference to Your Community | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 33

Supporting Welsh learners Groups of school children across South & West Wales were given the chance to visit this year’s Urdd National Eisteddfod in South Wales.

We sponsored several schools in Bridgend, Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire by donating free tickets for their pupils to attend the annual Welsh youth festival at Pencoed, near Bridgend in May. The sponsorship meant that more pupils were able to go along and support their classmates taking part in the festival.

Schools benefiting from the sponsored tickets were Ysgol Cenarth, Ceredigion; Ysgol Penboyr Drefach Felindre, Carmarthenshire; Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Ogwr, Brackla, Bridgend and Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Cwm Garw, Pontycymmer, Bridgend.

WWH’s Chief Executive Anne Hinchey said: “With the Urdd Eisteddfod being held in Bridgend this year we were delighted to be able to do something to support Welsh-speaking and non-Welsh speaking young people in the communities around our housing schemes.

For Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Cwm Garw, Pontycymmer, Bridgend, the extra tickets meant that more pupils were able to visit to cheer on the school’s rock band, who were competing in the event.

"By sponsoring tickets those who might not have been able to afford to visit the Urdd Eisteddfod will be able to join in.”

34 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Money Matters

Universal Credit (UC) Pension Credit Universal Credit (UC) is a new benefit that combines multiple benefits into one monthly payment.

Pension Credit tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level for those who are no longer working.

Anyone under 65 who claims Jobseekers Allowance, Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit and/or Tax Credits will be moved onto this new system. Soon anyone making a new claim for the benefits listed above will instead make a claim for UC.

If you have reached the minimum qualifying age (which is the same as the women’s state pension age, approximately 64) and have a weekly income below £192.35 if you are single, and £280.50 if you are a couple, you may qualify for Pension Credit.

People who are already claiming benefit who are not currently affected are unlikely to be moved onto this system before 2019. However it’s never too early to prepare for it.

You will need the following information to hand so an assessment can be made:

Get online

UC claims are made and managed online. If you don’t use the internet start to think of ways that you could access it, eg libraries or Council courses.

Budget monthly

UC will be paid monthly which may differ from the way you currently receive your income. Our website has many tips about managing your money.

Get a bank account

You may have a Post Office account that only allows you to withdraw your money. If so, now is the time to open a new bank account so you can manage your money better.

• a National insurance (NI) number • how much money you have coming in each week – eg, details of any pension you get from a former employer or a personal pension plan, and how often it is paid • details of any savings and investments – the Pension Service will ask for the current balance in any bank and savings accounts and details of any investments, such as shares, premium bonds or unit trust certificates • information on housing costs, such as mortgage interest, service charges or ground rent.

If you have a partner, they will need the same information about them.

To apply for Pension Credit call 0800 99 1234. Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/pensioncredit

Recipe| intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 35

Tasty tuna or broccoli pasta bake This is an easy, quick, cheap and tasty fish/vegetable recipe to cook for all the family. (Serves 4. Preparation time 10 mins. Cooking time 35 mins. Freezable.)

Ingredients 300g dried pasta 1 onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, crushed 160g tuna or 1 head of broccoli 400g chopped tomatoes 1 tsp dried oregano 100g cheddar cheese, grated 2 tbsp olive oil (Ingredients bought at Tesco on 09.08.17 = ÂŁ1.04 per serving.)

Method 1. Cook pasta for 2 minutes less than the instructions on the packet and drain. (If making the vegetarian option, cook the broccoli with the pasta to save time and saucepans!)

2. Preheat oven to 180oC/Gas mark 4.

3. Put the olive oil (or oil from the tuna if using tuna in oil) into a pan and fry the onion and garlic.

4. Pour away the remaining oil (if using tuna in oil) and add the tuna or broccoli to the pan and heat through and mix.

5. Add the chopped tomatoes, herbs and some black pepper and cook for 5-10 minutes.

6. Add this mixture to the cooked pasta and mix well.

7. Pile into an oven dish and top with the grated cheese.

8. Bake for 20-30 minutes and enjoy!

36 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Charity Update

Rugby stars help raise cash for charity

Staff from WWH took on former Welsh internationals in a charity rugby match to raise money for our staff charity Age Cymru.

WWH put together a Select XV team of professional and regional club rugby players to compete against Welsh Charitables RFC Veterans at the event at Penarth Rugby Club on Friday, September 1.

Former British Lion Allan Bateman was among the famous faces on the pitch, while Colin Charvis cheered on from the sidelines.

Money raised was split equally between Age Cymru, the Welsh Charitables RFC Veterans' chosen charity and Matt Burns, whose wife Jo, works at WWH’s head office in Cardiff. Matt was diagnosed with bile duct cancer which spread to his

liver and has been going through chemotherapy. His family and friends have formed Team Burns and have already raised more than ÂŁ30,000 towards potential future treatment.

During the evening there was a 7-a-side fun touch rugby tournament where WWH staff and six other teams competed for fun. The sevens' tournament was won by a team from Peacocks and the Select XV match ended in a draw. There were also family activities, a barbecue, bouncy castle, inflatable slide, face painting and a charity sporting memorabilia auction.

Peter Jenkins, Commercial Manager at WWH, organised the event along with Carwyn Thomas, who works for one of our contractors Thermal Earth.

Peter said: "It was a huge success and we hope we can make it an annual event."

Charity Update | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 37

Community steps out to support fun run The annual Newcastle Emlyn 5k fun run was a great success, raising more than £500 for our nominated charity Age Cymru.

Around 200 runners and spectators, young and old, took part in the run which started at our Cwrt Y Llan office on Friday 16th June.

Winners of the children’s races were Jac Thomas (under 7s) and Rhodri Lewis (7-15). Rhys Davies won the adult race and local running club The Zipperframers were the first team past the post.

Alys Humphrey and Osian Driscoll were the best dressed runners.

Organiser Amanda Harries said: “The weather was fantastic and we had a great time. We’d like to thank the community and local runners and our sponsors Lee Poole & Sons; Afan Electrical; J & P Home Ltd; The Sandwich Shop; Tesco; Aldi; Selwyn Elias and Jamsons for their generosity.

“Their support was appreciated and made the event such a success.”

L-R: The Zipperframers: Sian Owen, Wendy Tromans, Wendy Hoyland, Ali Rees and Gary Proven, with Mayor of Newcastle Emlyn, Peter Lewis

Rhys Davies

Osian Driscoll

Alys Humphrey

38 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Making a Difference to Your Future

Be your own boss Nesley and Lauren with Sharon Rouse, Course Tutor

Two creative residents have been given a helping hand in starting their own business.

Father-of-four Nesley Brown of Brackla, Bridgend and Lauren Lichfield of Twyncarmel, Merthyr Tydfil, were looking for help with WWH’s Future Grant scheme to set up in business.

To give their business ideas the best chance of success WWH arranged for the pair to take part in a 12-week Resident Enterprise Course run by local social enterprise Oracle Services.

Nesley, who works part-time as a delivery driver for Tesco, is hoping to turn his passion for taking photos into a successful business by setting up Brownz event, family and wedding photography services.

WWH is supporting him with a grant to buy some equipment.

While 21-year-old Lauren is aiming to turn her flair for fine art into a career and is looking for support to help her set up a website to sell and showcase her works which include paintings, mugs, T-shirts and shopping bags.

Nesley said: “The course has been very useful. I learnt how to prepare myself for business and it gave me help in dealing with customers. ” Already he has several weddings and a local community event in his diary.

Lauren is now preparing to launch her work on online sales sites and is looking into stalls at festivals and craft fairs in the future.

"I love my job" Cardiff resident Olimpia Wiercigoroch loves her new cleaning job at our Cardiff head office.

Olimpia, who lives at Drybrook Close, attended a Work Place – First Impression session at WWH’s offices, which led to her getting the cleaning job with our sister company, Castell Ventures.

"It is much better for our family now that I have a job,” said Olimpia. “I love cleaning, so this job is good for me.”

Social Media| intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 39

What’s ’Appening?

Did you know there are Apps out there that could make a difference to you or someone else?

Street Link Ever passed a homeless person and wished you had been able to do something but couldn’t?

Street Link is an app that enables you to alert local authorities about rough sleepers in your area. Rough sleepers may not be known to local services because they remain out of sight, bedding down at different times of day or night, and moving from place to place.

Not all rough sleepers are aware that advice and support is available to them. By telling Street Link about someone who is sleeping rough, you will help to connect that person to the local services available.

First Aid apps – St John Ambulance or Red Cross You never know when you may be in an emergency situation and your first aid knowledge isn’t great or needs brushing up. St John Ambulance created this first aid app and they are determined that no one should die because they needed first aid and didn’t get it.

This app includes the latest first aid advice and protocols for dealing with emergency situations. It is simple to follow with illustrated guides and voiced instructions.

These apps are available in the Apple and Android app stores.

How it works Using the Street Link app and tapping the ‘Tell us about a rough sleeper’ button you can complete a form about the rough sleeper and the location.

You can also use ‘Locate me’ if you are not sure what street you are on.

This two minute task may save someone’s life and the app is only 6mb so won’t take up much space on your phone – it’ll be worth having.

You can also visit http://www. streetlink.org.uk/ http://www.sja.org.uk/sja/first-aidadvice/free-mobile-first-aid-app.aspx And http://www.redcross.org.uk/en/ What-we-do/Emergency-response/ Emergency-app-landing

40| www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | What's On

Autumn events to enjoy in Wales NORTH WALES

SOUTH WALES

7 October, 11am-11pm, Snowdonia Real Ale Trail, Lion Hotel, Criccieth, Gwynedd, LL52 0AA Bus-based Real Ale festival visiting nine of the best pubs in Snowdonia. Tel: 07582 018979.

Until 24 September Poppies: Weeping Window.

The Senedd, Cardiff Bay A cascade of thousands of handmade ceramic poppies, originally seen pouring from a high window to the ground below at the Tower of London as part of the installation Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red. https://www.1418now.org.uk/ commissions/poppies-weepingwindow-at-cardiff/

28 October, 11am – 5pm, Calan Gaeaf- the Halloween Hullaballoo!

Fern Avenue, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19 9LR. Tel: 07947 603834.

30 Oct 2017 - 1 Nov 2017, 3pm-11pm, Halloween Horror Maze Llanddulas Village Hall, Beulah Avenue, Llanddulas, Conwy, LL22 8 FH. Tel: 07895 563527.

4-6 November, 9am – 6pm, North Wales Choral Festival Venue Cymru, The Promenade, Llandudno, Conwy, LL30 1BB.

MID WALES 27 – 28 November Royal Welsh Winter Fair Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells Whether its livestock, poultry and horses being judged in the indoor arenas or the best of Welsh produce from award-winning producers in the food hall, there is something here for everyone.

Tel: 0844 545 0517.

1 October Cardiff Half Marathon Thousands of runners race through Cardiff city centre past some iconic locations and historic buildings, starting at Cardiff Castle, crossing the Cardiff Barrage to Cardiff Bay to finish at Cardiff City Hall. Go along and cheer them on.

Our charity Age Cymru are looking for runners to take part. Call 029 2043 1555 for more information.

31 October 2017 Cyfarthfa Castle, Brecon Road, Merthyr Tydfil Make your own spooky mummy and Halloween Scavenger Hunt. Drop in and create your own spooky mummy and see if you can find all the strange and mysterious objects on the Halloween scavenger hunt.

Tel: 01685 724445.

What's On | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 41

28, 29 and 31 October Ride the Ghost Train at Blaenavon's Heritage Railway.

Trains run from Spooky Furnace Sidings station at regular intervals from 4pm through to 9pm. Visitors are encouraged to dress up (but not essential and be prepared to be scared!) Tickets are £6.

Tel: 01495 792263.

WEST WALES

Until 5 November 2017 National Museum of Wales, Cardiff - Dinosaur Babies First time in Wales for this the world’s most amazing finds of dinosaur eggs and embryos. Admission £7 adults, £5 concessions and £3 children (4-17).

Tel: 0300 111 2 333.

Until Saturday 21 October A Darker Thread - Exhibition 10am-5pm, Oriel Myrddin, Carmarthen. Call 01267 222 775.

Wales has a much celebrated tradition of creating both utilitarian and decorative textiles of distinctive design. From power-loomed blankets to hand-stitched quilts, textiles are a key part of Welsh visual culture and history.

Royal Welsh Winter Fair

23-24 September Narberth Food Festival A community event, entirely volunteerrun, with food stalls, live music, street theatre, talks and tastes, chef demonstrations and free children's activities. Call 07917 783001.

Until Saturday 4 November "As Good As It Gets" Quilt exhibition - "Ni Cheir Gwell" Lampeter Town Hall, SA48 7BB 9:00am 4pm Call 01570 480 112.

A Darker Thread exhibition

Dinosaur Babies, National Museum of Wales

42 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch |Your News & Views

Residents step back into the 40s

Chef James Roskell, 27, delighted residents at Llys Jasmine when he came up with the idea of a 40s day.

Together with Sharon Denman, from Flintshire County Council, they looked at menus and memorabilia and persuaded the Ladies Club to provide a Union Jack and have table flags in the restaurant.

Residents tucked into a 3 course meal with a choice of corned beef hash, spam fritters and beef bourguignon, followed by jelly and ice cream, bread & butter pudding and apple pie.

Both residents and staff dressed up in themed clothes and an organist played tunes from the 40s.

Terry Moore said: “It was

an excellent day which was well prepared and presented.

The food was organised well and everyone enjoyed it and had a lovely time.”

Margaret Collins agreed: “We all enjoyed ourselves and it was lovely seeing the staff dressed up.”

And residents at Oak Court in Penarth used a 'Celebrate!" Lottery grant to hold their own VE day celebrations for the local community, as pictured below. Residents brought old photographs and other memorabilia including ration books and coupons.

Your News & Views | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 43

Everyone’s a winner Congratulations to our residents who were recognised at this year’s TPAS Cymru Participation Awards in Cardiff. You are all winners.

• Jan Derrett won the Tenant of the Year award - very well deserved!

• Naomi Wyard and Emily Phillips won joint 3rd prize in the Young Tenant of the Year category.

• Llys Jasmine Extra Care Scheme Community Tuck Shop, Mold came third in the Participation in Supported Housing Award.

• St Mellons Community Garden won the Community Action award – well done!

Afternoon tea brings a lift to the residents of Gerddi’r Ffynnon When the lift at Gerddi’r Ffynnon retirement scheme in Aberystwyth was out of action for three weeks, many residents living on the second and third floors felt lonely.

They missed their regular afternoon tea and chat in the communal lounge. So Housing Officer Glesni Hesford-Evans and Community Development Officer Jess O‘Connell decided that if they couldn’t go to tea, tea would come to them.

They organised tea parties on each of the floors and those residents who were able to use the stairs joined them. And to make it extra special Jess baked scones with cream and jam and Glesni made fairy cakes.

44 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Your News & Views

Tommy steps up to charity challenge Tommy Guest, 74, from Centenary Court, Flint, deserves to put his feet up, having walked 250 miles in June, all for the charity campaign Walk Over Cancer.

“I was watching TV and saw the Cancer Research campaign that was encouraging people to walk 10,000 steps a day in June, so I googled it and decided to take part.”

Tommy, who hurt his foot years ago by stepping onto an uneven stone, worked out a 5 mile route in his car that would achieve a target of 10,000 steps a day.

“My brother died of gastric cancer four years ago so I walked for him as well as others suffering from the illness, including my neighbour Ole Constantine.”

Once Tommy had reached the campaign’s target of 150 miles, he decided to carry on and walk another

100 miles. “While I was out on my walk, my niece phoned me to tell me that she too, has cancer. I wanted to do something to help so I went out every day, whatever the weather.”

When Tommy finished his 250th mile, there was a small welcoming party for him at the scheme. “I felt great – I’d achieved it!” says Tommy who has raised £500 for Cancer Research.

If you would like to donate, please visit fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org and search Tommy Guest, where you will see details of how to donate.

Garden of Eden in St Mellons

Gardeners at the St Mellons Community Garden in Cardiff opened their gates to charity walkers from a round-Britain walk.

The walkers from the Eden Project’s Great Big Walk stopped at the garden during their 1400 mile hike around the country between May 29 and June 18. It was all part of a project to shine a light on groups who are doing great things in the community and making a positive change where they live, helping people and the environment.

Your News & Views | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 45

VEST is best for Western Court Residents

Residents of Western Court, Cardiff, have helped local transport charity V.E.S.T. (Voluntary Emergency Services Transport) on their journey to buy a new bus.

They raised £2,050 in total. £405 came from a coffee morning and the remainder came from the wider community and a 140k Wales Velothon. Scheme Manager Ann White’s son was in a cycling team to support the charity.

The final push means that V.E.S.T. has reached their £55,000 target to buy a new bus with reclining seats and a tail lift to add extra comfort for community passengers.

V.E.S.T coordinator Caroline said: “This has been one of our best supported fundraisers and being able to now buy a new comfy bus for longer trips means we are also able to free up one of the other vehicles for more local journeys”.

Thank you to good neighbours at Hanover Court When Vera Wright’s son collapsed in the street, she was grateful to her good neighbours who rushed to her aid.

Vera, 78, lives at Hanover Court, Barry, and was waiting at the nearby bus stop with her 54-year-old son when it happened.

Vera went into a panic, but fortunately residents at the scheme were on hand to calm her down. They brought a pillow for her son’s head and waited

with her until the ambulance arrived and took them to hospital.

Vera said: “I just want to thank everyone who came out and helped us. They were fantastic and I don’t know what I would have done without them.

“My son has a bad heart and I was so worried, but the ladies living in the flats were so kind to us. I don’t know who they were but I was so thankful they were there to help us.”

46 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch |Your News & Views

Hightown’s bee haven Friends of Hightown Community Resource Centre called on volunteers to help Hightown Community Garden Project to create a wildflower haven for local bees in Hightown.

The site is one of the 200+ ‘Bee Worlds’ springing up around the country as part of the charity’s Bee Cause campaign.

The group secured £1,500 funding from ‘Together in Wrexham’ and wildflower seed donations from Friends of the Earth and Just Seed to transform the green space outside Hightown Community Resource Centre into a glorious wildflower garden, providing vital food for threatened local pollinating insects.

During the Summer, 70 children attended a wildlife craft workshop to create pieces to use in the community wildlife garden and to take home.

Children created wind spinners, simple bird feeders, butterfly feeders and individual pieces to go into the large bug hotel.

Merthyr’s rainbow residents Residents at Ty Brynseion in Merthyr Tydfil showed their support for fiveyear-old Mia Chambers, who is known locally as a “Rainbow Warrior”, by organising a sponsored walk.

Twelve residents took part, raising more than £1200 for the family,

Local people have joined a rainbowthemed fundraising drive to help her parents raise £200,000 to send her to America for a clinical trial. Mia is currently being treated for a rare form of cancer and shops, businesses, cars and homes have been decorated with rainbow ribbon bows to raise money and awareness.

One of the organisers Gwyneth Griffiths said: “We wanted to do something as Mia’s great grandmother lives at the Ty Gwaunfarren scheme. We got a group of 12 residents together to take part in the walk. Some were on walking frames and did one lap of the park, others who could walk further did two or three laps. Others even took their dogs.

To join the fundraising residents at Ty Brynseion tied rainbow ribbons to their walking frames as they held a sponsored walk around Cyfarthfa Park collecting money along the way.

“When we gave the money to Mia’s father, Josh was very emotional.”

“People in the park were fascinated to see a group of pensioners collecting for charity.”

Your News & Views | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 47

“We just wanted to help” Residents at Ty Gwynn Jones in Abergele raised £523.40 for Ysbyty Glan Clwyd by holding a strawberry tea.

Fran Parry, 70, wanted to do something to help when she found out that her son David, 51, also a WWH resident at Llys Bryniau, Llandudno, had been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He was diagnosed when he was due to have a back operation but his persistent cough raised the alarm.

Fran said: “When your son is so ill, you just want to do something to help.

The cancer unit at Glan Clwyd has been brilliant with David but people don’t understand that hospitals rely on fundraising to have the equipment they need. One of the medical fridges was on the blink so my neighbours helped me to organise a strawberry tea to help buy one for the hospital.

Residents Chris Williams, Sally Clayton, Alison Sharpe and Ann Badcott rallied round Fran and Steve Jeffery took photos and invited a creative learning community group to the event.

Fran said: “David was over the moon – he was so elated to tell the sister at Glan Clwyd how much had been raised.”

Didn’t we have a lovely Knitting for others day…

Anne Green, Mary Forbes and Lily Sydney Hall Court residents are pictured enjoying a lovely day out to Pwllheli and the Llyn Peninsula.

Whitley are pictured knitting clothing and items for Ysbyty Glan Clwyd. Anne’s sister Carole Bull was the organiser, who also designed a blanket.

Opportunities for casual catering assistants and chefs in Mold, Prestatyn and Newtown Are you: • wanting to work flexibly around your lifestyle?

• willing to work some weekends and/or Bank Holidays?

• happy to work as a team in our extra care schemes?

We have opportunities for catering assistants and chefs.

Catering Assistants Chefs £8.45 £9.22 per hour per hour Hours: Variable Castell Catering is a great place to work and welcomes people who are looking for an opportunity to work on a casual basis. We are a Living Wage employer.

To apply please visit: www.castellventures.wales