Intouch winter 2014 15

intouch ISSUE 81 | WINTER 2014/2015 | FREE

The magazine for residents of Wales & West Housing

In this issue...

Celebrate our 50th anniversary with us!

Tackling Christmas debt Find out about our Making a Difference grants Your employment & skills queries answered

OUR WEBSITE ha.co.uk you can...

at www.ww By visiting our website Pay your rent Find Tips on managing

your money

ws in your area Keep up to date on ne Apply for grants And much more...

SOCIAL MEDIA ..

nnect with us through.

also co Did you know you can Twitter - @wwha

forwales YouTube - wwhahomes Linkedin

News and General Information | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 03

Editor’s

Letter

Welcome to the winter 2014 - 2015 edition of InTouch, which we hope is packed full of useful and interesting information for you. As usual you’ll find all the latest news from Wales & West Housing, alongside resident views and top tips and advice on a range of issues.

2015 is a very important year for us, as we are celebrating our 50th anniversary! To mark this special occasion, we’ve introduced the Making a Difference to Your Future grant to help residents with education, training and employment opportunities (find out more on page 13).

We’re also inviting you to celebrate our big birthday with us, by hosting a 50th anniversary party at your scheme or in your community with our party grant (see page 4).

For the past two years, we have been supporting Stroke Association Wales and helping raise money for this fantastic cause. You’ll be pleased to hear that during this time together, staff and residents, have raised an amazing £30,000 for the charity!

So a big thank you to everyone who got involved and you can head to page 15 to read more.

With Christmas seeming a distant memory and the new year now well upon us, it’s time for many of us to face our finances - particularly what we spent over the festive period. If financial troubles are getting you down, then we have some great advice from NHS Choices on how you can deal with money worries (page 30). And on page 23 you’ll find some top tips from thisismoney.co.uk on dealing with your Christmas debt. Remember, our team of friendly Tenancy Support Officers is always on hand to help you manage your money should you find yourself in difficulty – so don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling 0800 052 2526 if you need help.

Until next time, happy reading, take care and keep InTouch!

Contents WWH News & Info Making a Difference Grants Development Update Charity Update Quarterly Report Money Matters Work. Skills. Experience Planned Maintenance Healthy Living Going Green Your News & Views Birthdays & Anniversaries

4 12 14 15 18 23 25 28 30 31 32 34

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

Follow us on twitter @wwha

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, 3 Alexandra Gate, Ffordd Pengam, Tremorfa, Cardiff CF24 2UD.

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 PEFC Certified This product is from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources PEFC/16-33-254

www.pefc.org

04 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | News and General Information

WWH 50th Anniversary

– join the party!

Apply for a 50th anniversary grant to host a celebration with other WWH residents in your scheme or community!

Throughout 2015, Wales & West Housing is celebrating its 50th anniversary – and we would love residents to celebrate this special year with us.

So, we have introduced a grant for residents to host a WWH 50th anniversary party at your scheme or in your community.

From a tea party in a communal lounge, to a disco in your local community hall or even a BBQ in the scheme gardens, we’ll be able to provide residents with a party pack and up to £250 so you and your fellow WWH residents can celebrate with us.

If you would like to find out more and apply for a grant on behalf of your scheme or community, simply speak to your scheme manager or housing officer, or call our Customer Service Centre on 0800 052 2526.

News and General Information | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 05

Only Residents ALOUD Members of Only Residents Aloud (or ORA as we call it) help us to improve our services by telling us their views from the comfort of their own home. This group is open to all Wales & West Housing residents and you can contribute by email, post or phone survey.

Last year we asked our ORA members what they thought of resident participation at Wales & West Housing - we were pleased with what you told us!

And as an extra thanks, each time your take part in an ORA consultation you will be entered into our prize draw to win a £10 One4All voucher.

The six lucky winners for the resident participation and infographics consultations are: •

• 94% said you are satisfied that we • •

take your views into account.

85% said you are satisfied that we keep you informed about things that affect you as a resident.

100% said you are satisfied that you can give your views to WWH in the ways you want to.

ORA members also helped us to design our new Quarterly Report infographics that you’ll now see in each edition of InTouch, telling you how we are doing in terms of our different services (see page 18).

So, we want to say thank you to all the ORA members who gave their views last year.

Claire Hammond presents resident and ORA member Jeff Bunce with his prize draw voucher

• • • • •

Mr Edwin Rees of Llys Ben Bowen Thomas, Rhondda Mrs Jacqueline Humphreys of Broadwell Close, St. Mellons, Cardiff Mr Jeff Bunce of Western Court, Bridgend Ms. J. Lloyd of Haig Place, Ely, Cardiff Ms. K. Simpson of Hanover Court, Llandudno Mr D. O’Shea of Ty Gwaunfarren, Merthyr Tydfil

Congratulations all!

If you’d like to help us improve our services you can join ORA by: • Visiting the Residents Area of our website at www.wwha.co.uk • Emailing Claire Hammond, Resident Participation Strategy Officer, at claire.hammond@wwha.co.uk • Speaking to Claire by calling our Customer Service Centre on 0800 052 2526

We look forward to hearing from you!

06 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | News and General Information

Green fingered residents give talk at national conference Gardening group members and WWH staff inspired new generations of gardeners with a talk at the TPAS Cymru conference in November.

gardens at their schemes. The gardens now grow a range of fruit, vegetables and herbs, and both the gardens and their produce are enjoyed by residents.

Joy Wood from the Buzzy Buzzy Bees Garden Club at Hanover Court, Barry, and Phillip David and Eddie Williams from Cwrt Anghorfa Gardening Club, Bridgend, told their audience how their gardening groups have made a hugely positive difference to the lives of residents at their retirement schemes.

Phillip David said: “The profit for us is seeing residents enjoy the gardens Members of Cwrt Anghorfa we have Gardening Club, Bridgend. created.

People hardly went out the garden before but now we see the residents enjoying it almost every day.”

The green fingered residents, along with WWH Environment Assistant Sarah Willcox and Resident Participation Strategy Officer Claire Hammond, were invited to run a workshop at the conference after WWH gardening groups scooped first prize at the TPAS Awards for the last two years.

Both groups have been supported by WWH staff and grant funding to transform the

If you’d like to find out more about WWH’s Making a Difference to Your Environment grants or starting a project in your community, please phone our Customer Service Centre on 0800 052 2526 or go to www.wwha.co.uk

Joy (centre) with the other members of the Buzzy Buzzy Bees gardening group at the 2014 MAD Awards

News and General Information | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 07

Get Powys online!

WWH has been working with Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO) and Communities 2.0 to show residents in Powys the benefits of getting online.

As part of the project, we’ve provided free wi-fi for residents in the communal lounges at our retirement schemes Llys Hafren, Newtown, Christchurch Court, Llandrindod Wells and Maes-y-Ffynnon, Crickhowell.

Six WWH staff, who have received training and tablets to use from PAVO, have also been holding sessions in Llys Hafren and Christchurch Court for residents to find out more about using the web.

The team has been showing residents how to use apps, shop online, search for information, use Google Maps and take

Tenancy Support Officer Donna Steven (right) with residents Margaret Gough and Elizabeth Hodgson

photos, plus much more. Further sessions are now being arranged, where all our residents in Llandrindod Wells and Howey will be invited to come along.

The Get Powys On-line project runs until the end of March 2015. If you live in Powys and would like to know more, contact Alison Chaplin on 0800 052 2526 or email alison.chaplin@wwha.co.uk

We need more Homes For Britain!

Homes For Britain is a national campaign that brings together those who believe everyone has a right to a decent affordable home to call their own.

The campaign tells us that for decades Britain has failed to build enough new homes. This means that many adults have to live with relatives in overcrowded homes, others can’t start a family because they can’t afford to move, and some even struggle to afford to keep a roof over their heads.

As a result, Homes For Britain wants people to join together and give the clear message for political parties to commit to end this housing crisis within a generation.

On the 17th March, the campaign will see thousands of people coming together in Westminster to take part in a housing rally, believed to be the biggest in recent years.

You can find out more about the campaign and sign up to show your support at www.homesforbritain.org.uk

08 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | News and General Information

Popular community centre celebrates 1st anniversary Residents recently celebrated the first anniversary of our state-ofthe-art community resource centre in Wrexham, which is part of our affordable housing development at Hightown.

The centre, which replaced the old community centre on Brynycabanau Road offers classes and rooms at affordable prices for individuals, families and local businesses to enjoy.

Attending the celebration in December were the Mayor & Mayoress of Wrexham, Cllr Graham Rogers and Anne Hinchey, WWH Chief Executive.

Lesley Griffiths, AM, Minister for Communities & Tackling Poverty, also joined residents for a carol service.

The event saw the local community enjoying lots of family and children’s activities such as a Santa’s Grotto, making lanterns, making reindeer food, face painting and festive

Elsa from Frozen has a sing-a-long with the children

refreshments. Queen Elsa from Frozen also made an appearance, and the fun rounded off with a carol concert.

Lesley Griffiths said: “It’s clear the centre has proved a real asset to the community in its first year and is a key part of the wider project which is delivering much needed affordable homes in Hightown.”

Anne Hinchey, Chief Executive of Wales & West Housing, said: “This is a fantastic facility that can be enjoyed

by Wrexham residents at affordable prices in a prime location, which helps make a difference to the community when many centres are facing closure.”

Anne Hinchey, Mayor of Wrexham Cllr Alan Edwards with the Mayoress, his wife Glenys, WWH resident Paula Hack, Ian Lucas MP and Cllr Graham Rogers

News and General Information | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 09

Our rent setting

policy consultation

In the summer 2014 edition of InTouch, we gave you details about our new rent setting policy and asked for your views.

The new policy was introduced as the Welsh Government changed the system of regulating social housing rents that apply to housing associations. These changes have an impact on you, our residents.

The booklet we sent you, entitled ‘Changing our Rent Setting Policy’, explained our plans and outlined how the changes were likely to affect you.

We were really grateful for the comments that we received back from you. In total, we received 100 responses.

35 residents asked a specific question about what the new policy meant for them. We will be able to answer this when the rent increases for 2015/2016 have been announced.

Having consulted with you, our residents, our Board has now approved the new rent policy which should be implemented from April 2015.

For more information on the changes to our rent setting policy, contact us on 0800 052 2526 or email: contactus@wwha.co.uk

Within these:

• 22 residents were broadly positive about the new policy • 16 residents were broadly negative about the new policy • 62 residents made no comment on the policy itself

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10 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | News and General Information

Helping communities cope with winter We are planning a series of events in North Wales for the elderly during February and March, to help them cope with the winter months.

Mental Health – staying content on 3 March in Prestatyn; 4 March in Mold

Food glorious food – health and nutrition on 17 February at Nant Y Mor in Prestatyn; 18 February at Llys Jasmine in Mold

Look out for more information on our website at www.wwha.co.uk

Parkinsons and dementia awareness on 24 March in Prestatyn and 25 March in Mold

Getting involved with WWH Tell us how we’re doing and you could win a £10 voucher!

We want to make sure that we support you in the ways you want and help you to get involved and make a difference where you live.

There are many ways to give your views and we want to make sure we offer the ways that you would prefer.

We’d love to hear how you think we’re doing in terms of achieving this, along with your ideas for what else we could do too.

As a result, we’ve put together a short survey that you can complete by:

• visiting our website: www.wwha.co.uk • speaking to your Housing Officer or Scheme Manager or by calling Claire Hammond, Resident Participation Strategy Officer, on 0800 052 2526 • emailing Claire at claire.hammond@wwha.co.uk By telling us your views you’ll be entered into a prize draw to win one of five £10 One4All gift cards, which can be used at over 17,000 retailers including Amazon, TK Maxx and Debenhams.

Good luck and we look forward to hearing from you!

News and General Information | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 11

WWH recognised for

double ‘excellence’ We’re pleased to say that WWH has been recognised as one of the top employers in the UK by not one, but two major UK workplace accreditors.

After a review undertaken in October

by Investors in People, WWH has retained its sought-after IiP Gold status, and, in a further feat, has achieved the rare achievement of satisfying all 196 evidence requirements.

WWH, which celebrates its 50th year in business in 2015, is one of only a handful of companies ever to have done this in the UK. In addition to WWH’s Investors in People success, we’ve had more good news from the prestigious Sunday Times Best Companies process.

In October 2014 WWH staff took part in the Best Companies review for the fifth year running. Now we’ve

learned that not only has WWH once again made the Top 100 listings, but it has also been awarded the highest ‘three stars’ rating by Best Companies recognizing WWH as an ‘extraordinary’ employer. Our exact ranking in the 2015 Best Companies Top 100 will be revealed at the end of February 2015.

Anne Hinchey, Chief Executive of WWH, said: “Both of these awards are testament to how much people matter in our organization and the contribution each and every one of our team makes towards making us not only successful but also a workplace where people want to join, stay, develop and make a difference.

“Strong, sustainable growth to make a difference to people’s lives, homes and communities is our mission. We could not do, or be, what we are without our fantastic staff and I am extremely proud of the organisation and everyone who works for us.”

12 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Making a Difference grants

Making a Difference grants: At Wales & West Housing our mission is to make a difference to people’s lives, homes and communities. As a result, we’ve been offering grants to our residents for several years now, to help you make a difference to your environment or to support community activities.

On 25th February 2015, we’ll be celebrating our 50th anniversary. To mark the occasion, we have introduced a new grant with a £50,000 pot of money. The ‘Making a Difference to Your Future’ grant is for individual residents, to help you make a difference to your

life by funding educational, training and employment opportunities.

You can find out more about all of the Making a Difference grants that we have on offer below. More information can be found on our website www.wwha.co.uk or you can contact our Customer Service Centre on 0800 052 2526.

So, if you think we can help you to start making a difference to your environment, community or future with our grants, please do get in touch!

Making a Difference to Your Community grant This grant can help you to kick start community activities where you live. We used to call it our Make it Happen Grant.

You don’t need to be a formal group to apply. The idea is to get you and your neighbours together on a regular basis to build a closer community.

For more information about our Making a Difference to Your Community grant, contact Claire Hammond (Resident Participation Strategy Officer) at claire.hammond@wwha.co.uk or call Claire on 0800 052 2526.

Here are some examples of the items we’ve funded for groups: • Cooking equipment and utensils • Craft equipment and materials • Gazebos and outdoor furniture • Outdoor and indoor games • Bingo machines, dabbers and tickets • Wii fit consoles, boards, controllers and games But these aren’t the only things we’ll fund – if you have an idea just let us know.

Resident Dee Thorne enjoys a glass painting lesson at her scheme in Ton Pentre, Rhondda, funded by the Making a Difference to Your Community grant

Making a Difference grants | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 13

We’re here to help Making a Difference to Your Environment grant

Making a Difference to Your Future grant

Our Making a Difference to Your Environment grant is available for any group of WWH residents who would like to set up a project to improve the environment where they live. This used to be called our Environment Fund.

As part of our 50th anniversary celebrations, we have introduced our new Making a Difference to Your Future grant. We have allocated £50,000 to help you take part in educational, training and employment opportunities throughout 2015.

This grant can provide a variety of garden items such as raised beds, water butts, soil and tools to help you set up your environment project. You will also have the opportunity to attend training courses which will help you to improve your gardening and environmental knowledge.

Individual residents can apply for a grant to overcome any barriers that have been stopping them from getting into work, college or training.

Groups which are successful in receiving the grant will have the full support of the WWH Environment Team, who will be on hand to guide you through the process - from when you first fill out your application form to when your project is up and running.

There is no set limit on the amount you can apply for and each application will be considered on an individual basis. The amount awarded will be what you need to help you make an opportunity into a reality. This could include paying for specialist training; suitable clothing for job interviews or purchasing equipment to help you start your business.

For more information about our Making a Difference to Your Environment grant, contact Sarah Willcox (Environmental Assistant) at sarah.willcox@wwha.co.uk or call Sarah on 0800 052 2526.

For more information about our Making a Difference to Your Future grant, contact Kristin Vaughan (Employment and Enterprise Coach) at kristin.vaughan@ wwha.co.uk or call Kristin on 0800 052 2526.

The gardens at Cwrt Anghorfa, Bridgend, have been transformed thanks to the Making a Difference to Your Environment grant, and the hard work of residents at the scheme.

Resident Cheryl Litchfield-Payne received a Making a Difference to Your Future grant to help her purchase vital machinery for her clock making business

14 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Development Update

Work starts on affordable

housing in Rhyl We have contracted Anwyl Construction to start building 24 homes, 16 houses and eight flats, on the former ITT factory site on Cefndy Road in the North Wales town.

The new development will be made up of four detached and 12 semidetached homes, and two blocks of four apartments each.

Anwyl’s Director Tom Anwyl said: “This is the second phase of a mixed development of commercial property and housing and we’re delighted to be working in partnership again with Wales & West Housing to bring much-needed new homes to the area.

“It is the first major private sector development in Denbighshire for a number of years and underlines our commitment to Rhyl.

“We have also consulted closely with the local community, with schools and other organisations, to minimise the impact of the build on them.”

Denbighshire County Council Chairman, Cllr Brian Blakeley, from Rhyl, said: “I’m very pleased this development is going ahead and it’s another example of strong partnership

New affordable housing in Rhyl

working. This was a derelict site and now it’s providing homes and jobs too.”

Anne Hinchey, Chief Executive of Wales & West Housing, said: “This is a fantastic new development of energy efficient, warm and affordable homes which will improve the area.

“It provides an answer to the need for affordable housing in Rhyl as well as boosting the economy and giving the local community work and training opportunities.

“Funding from the Welsh Government and our partnership with Denbighshire County Council has made this possible.

“Affordable housing is more important now than ever and this project will help make a real difference.”

Charity Update | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 15

We’ve raised

£30,000 for Stroke Association Wales!

We’re really pleased to say that WWH and its residents have managed to raise a fantastic £30,000 for The Stroke Association!

Over the past two years, staff and residents have gone to incredible efforts to raise money for the charity, which supports those who have suffered from a stroke, along with their families and carers. Tons of fundraising activities took place over the two year period, with highlights including…

Anne, Di and Verity took to the skies!

WWH’s crack sky dive team Verity Kimpton, Di Barnes and Anne Hinchey successfully jumped from 13,000 feet over Swansea Airfield in April 2013 raising over £10,000 in the process.

Andrew tackled the London Marathon!

Our Housing Officer Andy Pritchard completed the 2014 London Marathon, 26.2 gruelling miles, in aid of Stroke Association Wales in a fantastic 4 hours and 3 minutes, raising over £3,600.

L-R Diane, Verity and Anne get ready to jump!

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

And not forgetting the We couldn’t have done it without our efforts of the WWH team too! residents!

Many of you, our residents, have also been busy raising money for Stroke Association Wales over the past two years.

During this time residents have hosted coffee mornings and cake sales at their schemes, with many a budding baker giving their time and effort to raise money. Other events held by residents include parties, bingo, raffles and table top sales with generous individuals donating gifts as prizes. Some of our very talented and creative residents have even knitted beautiful scarves and toys to sell with all proceeds going to the charity!

With all this and much more, including numerous kind donations and tin collections, our residents really have made all the difference. We couldn’t have done it without you, so a huge thank you to everyone who got involved!

The coffee morning at Hanover Court, Rhos-on-Sea, was just one of many events that our residents held across Wales

Alongside all this, the team here at WWH got involved to raise money on a regular basis too. This included dress down days every Friday where staff would give £1 each to the cause, rugby sweepstakes during tournaments like the Six Nations, raffles, bake sales and salary rounding.

We are absolutely delighted with the amount raised for Stroke Association Wales.

So a massive THANK YOU to everyone who supported the charity!

We’re pleased to announce our staff charity for 2015 and 2016 will be Cancer Research Wales.

This fantastic charity aims to reduce the impact of cancer on the people of Wales, and fund research that will give hope to those affected by cancer and their families. We hope you’ll all continue to support our fundraising for this most worthy cause.

Charity Update | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 17

Charity Update

Cambria Maintenance Services staff supporting White Ribbon Day

WWH men wear their White Ribbons with pride

Residents raise money for Alzheimers Society

Staff from WWH and Cambria Maintenance Services wore their their white ribbons with pride recently to show their support for White Ribbon Day, a campaign to encourage all men to speak out against violence towards women.

The residents of Pendyrys House, Cardiff, raised a fantastic £175 for the Alzheimers Society. The community came together to support fellow resident Mrs Stephens and raise the money, after she signed up to complete The Alzheimer’s Society Cardiff Memory Walk. Mrs Stephens successfully completed the walk in Bute Park on Saturday 13th September. Well done all!

The aim of the campaign, which is recognised annually on the 25th November, is to encourage all men to intervene when they hear of or witness a verbal or physical attack, or the threat of a verbal or physical attack, on a woman, in order to create a safer world based on equality and respect.

Anne Hinchey, Chief Executive of WWH, said: “The use of violence, or threat of violence against anyone is completely unacceptable.

The White Ribbon campaign is all about asking men to speak out about violence against women, and to take action to stop it whenever and wherever they see it.

“I am very proud that so many male members of our staff as well as our partners have been wearing their White Ribbons for several days to raise awareness of this very important cause.”

For more information visit

www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk

Staff and residents support Operation Christmas Child WWH staff and residents came together once again this winter to support the Samaritan’s Purse ‘Operation Christmas Child’ Appeal.

The appeal saw generous individuals donate shoe boxes wrapped in colourful paper full of toiletries, toys and sweets.

Others knitted hats, scarves and puppets, or donated items.

58 boxes were completed in total and collected by Samaritans volunteers and given to children in need.

We will continue to support the cause for Christmas 2015, so any donations will be gratefully received.

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

Quarterly Report Keeping you in the picture We think it’s really important to keep you, our residents, in the picture when it comes to how WWH is doing.

Over the next few pages you’ll find a series of infographics that tell you exactly that – how we’re performing and your thoughts on how we’re doing.

You’ll find an infographic for four of our five key systems – namely rentals (help me pay), repairs (fix my home), development (find me a home) and anti-social behaviour (neighbourhoods that work).

The majority of this information comes from the period of October to December 2014, and in some cases (where stated) covers the whole of 2014.

Our infographics include interesting facts from how long it takes to carry out a repair and how many homes we built in 2014, to the most common anti-social behaviour issues reported and the percentage of rent we collected successfully for the whole of the year!

So, please take a good look and if you have any comments or would like to know anything else, we would love to hear from you!

You can email us at contactus@wwha.co.uk

or call us on 0800 052 2526.

Making a Difference Awards | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 19

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

evic ons same as previous year

Making a Difference Awards| intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 21

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

Neighbourhoods that work

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2526

Money Matters | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 23

Tips for tackling Christmas debt Christmas may be over, but for many of us it’s now time to face those bills from the festive period. A lot of people find themselves in debt after Christmas, so here’s some top tips from financial website thisismoney.co.uk on how you can help yourself to get back in the black.

Step 1: Work it out

Sit down and work out exactly how much you owe and who you owe it to. Be honest or you will only store up more problems for the future! Your priority outgoings are your rent or mortgage, council tax, utility bills and any court fines, so be sure to pay these bills first. If you’re having difficulties making these important payments, speak to the relevant organisation or company to tell them you’re having difficulties, as they maybe able to help.

within your budget. There’s an excellent Budget Planner on the Money Advice Service website (www. moneyadviceservice.org.uk), so make use of this handy tool!

Step 3: Be disciplined Don’t borrow any more money or take on any more debts until you have repaid what you already owe. It may seem tempting, but it’s best avoided in such circumstances.

Step 4: Watch your daily spending Take a set amount of money out of the bank at the beginning of the week and give your card to a friend or family member for safe-keeping. That way you cannot spend more than you have in cash.

£

Step 2: Budget Once you know how much you owe you can draw up a budget, including a schedule for repaying your debts.

Be realistic and work out what you can afford to repay and still stay

£

£

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

Step 5: Organise your bills

Step 7: Cut up store cards!

Always open your bills and keep them safe. If you can, make sure you are paying all your utility bills by direct debit. It’s much easier to manage as you won’t have to worry about sending cheques on time and it is also cheaper as most providers offer discounts for direct debit payments.

This is probably the easiest way to cut your bills. You can do it today by calling your bank with the details of your energy suppliers. Or, alternatively, most energy bills enclose a form to fill in to set up a direct debit.

Store cards charge by far the highest rates for credit, so if you’re finding it hard to manage these debts throw away your cards now to avoid temptation. You’ll pay well over the odds for most store cards - it’s better to pay cash if you can. For those items you can’t pay cash for, shop around for the best deals. It is also worth taking a look on the internet as many products are offered there more cheaply.

Step 6: Switch your utility suppliers You could save hundreds of pounds each year on your gas, electricity, water and phone bills by switching.

Comparison websites such as Martin Lewis’ moneysavingexpert.com are great for telling you where to get the best deals. If you are on a prepayment meter, consider switching as it’ll save you much more!

£ £

£

Step 8: Sell unwanted items for extra cash It’s that time of year where many of us still have unwanted Christmas gifts lying around our homes. Why not sell these for a bit of extra cash? You can sell unwanted items in a variety of different ways; why not put your unwanted belongings on Ebay or organise a car boot sale with friends or family. You can even sell your items at an online car boot sale or on sites such as Cash In your Gadgets, Music Magpie

If you’re still struggling…

Don’t worry - WWH has a team of friendly Tenancy Support Officers who are able to help you sort and manage your finances. Simply give us a call on 0800 052 2526 and we’ll put you in touch. There are also plenty of helpful debt charities out there who can provide advice. Call Step Change for free on 0800 138 1111, or the Debt Advice Foundation on 0800 043 4050.

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Work.Skills.Experience

Dear Kristin‌ Our employment and enterprise coach Kristin gives you her advice on issues about employment, training and volunteering.

Dear Kristin, I have been told that volunteering may help me get a job in the longer-term but I don’t want it to cost me money and I’m not sure if my benefits will stop if I do it?

Kristin writes: The latest information from gov.co.uk says that you can volunteer as long as you are still meeting the conditions of the benefit you get and any money you receive is to cover expenses, such as travel costs only.

Volunteering is a great way of advancing your career as it can teach you valuable job skills and give you an idea about whether it is the job you actually want to do long-term. Many people have started their careers as volunteers and progressed into long-term employment.

If you decide to volunteer and they do not cover your expenses, then you can apply to the Community Enterprise Team at WWH who will consider whether they can cover your costs from our Making a Difference to Your Future grant.

26 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Work.Skills.Experience

Kristin writes: The first impression you make on a potential employer is the most important one. The first judgment an interviewer makes is going to be based on how you look and what you are wearing. That’s why, in many cases, it is still important to dress professionally for a job interview, regardless of the work environment.

Dear Kristin, I have been invited to an interview for a job I really want, but am not sure what to wear and don’t have the money to buy anything. Can you help me please?

If you would like help with any work, training or volunteering issues, why not get in touch?

Simply email your query to Kristin at contactus@wwha.co.uk

Therefore, this will include a suit for men and women, clean shoes and clean and tidy hair. It is best to avoid lots of jewellery and limit the amount of aftershave or perfume. It is important to smell nice but not overpower your interviewer! If you are claiming benefits then the Jobcentre may be able to help you purchase clothes. In some areas now there are also schemes where clothes are donated by professionals for people to use for interviews.

Alternatively, as a resident of WWH you could apply to the Community Enterprise Team to see if you would be eligible for a grant from the Making a Difference to Your Future funding available as part of WWH’s 50th year. Contact them on 0800 052 2526 or email contactus@wwha.co.uk to find out more.

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Volunteering: make the most of your free time Volunteering is a great way of meeting new people and gaining experience and skills for the workplace. So if you have the time to offer, why not give it a try? Here we’ll find out more about the benefits and how you can get involved.

Learn a new skill: Volunteering is the perfect opportunity to discover something you are really good at and develop a new skill. It’s never too late to learn new skills and age is no reason why you should stop adding to your knowledge! It’s also a great way to gain experience for the workplace and looks fab on your CV if you’re looking for employment.

Be part of your community: What better way is there to connect with your community and give a little back?

No one person can solve all the world’s problems, but by volunteering you can make that little corner of the world where you live just that little bit better.

New interests and hobbies: Volunteering can provide an escape from everyday routine, allowing you to switch off from any problems you may have to do something you enjoy instead. The energy and sense of

fulfilment you have from volunteering can carry over to other parts of your life, and even help you to deal with situations in a different way. It can also lead you to something you never even thought about or help you discover an interest you were unaware of.

Meet new people: Volunteering brings together people from all backgrounds and walks of life. It’s a great way to make new friends, and also an opportunity to make professional relationships if you want to work in that particular field.

If you’d like help with your first steps into volunteering or would like to find out more, contact Kristin, our Employment and Enterprise Coach, by calling 0800 052 2526.

For more information on volunteering in your area, visit the Wales Council for Voluntary Action website at:

www.wcva.org.uk

28 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Planned Maintenance

Planned Maintenance

“The workmen were very good” Mr Sydney Baker has been a resident of Oak Court, Penarth, for over eight months and enjoys living in his studio flat which overlooks the large oak trees growing at the front of the scheme. He moved from Exeter to be near his family, and his daughter made sure that everything was in place for him before the initial move. He enjoys making new friends and likes getting out in the local community.

“Cambria fitted a new bathroom and kitchen and they did me proud. The workmen were very good, methodical and left no mess. I was amazed, it didn’t take them long. I would leave them to get on with their work and go and visit my daughter, before returning in the evening to see something new completed. They did me proud and this studio flat is ideal for a single person. They even gave me a choice of colours and finishes.”

Resident Sydney Baker in his new kitchen

Planned Maintenance | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 29

Below are the schemes that we plan to upgrade in the second quarter of 2015.

Kitchens

Ty’r Porthmon, Brecon, Powys Clos Tan Y Cefn, Bridgend Clos Tan Y Fron, Bridgend Powell Road, Buckley, Flintshire Becketts Lane, Buckley, Flintshire

Bathrooms

Windows Only

Sydney Hall Court, Connah’s Quay, Flintshire Maes Cefndy, Rhyl, Denbighshire Cefndy Road, Rhyl, Denbighshire

Windows & Doors

Heol y Ffynnon, Brecon, Powys

Oak Court, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan

PH Jones Prize Draw Win £250, champagne, chocolates and a bouquet of flowers!

You could also be a WINNER – simply have your gas boiler serviced on the first appointment, or give us at least 48 hours’ notice to re-arrange the visit for a time that is more convenient for you.

Our winner from the north for our latest draw is Emma Lawrence from Hightown, Wrexham. Emma said: “I have had a bit of bad luck recently, so it was a nice surprise

to find out I had won £250. I was so shocked I couldn’t believe it!”

Resident Emma Lawrence receives her prizes

30 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch |Healthy Living

Dealing with money worries It’s normal to feel worried, anxious or down when times are hard.

Unemployment, job insecurity, redundancy, debt and financial problems can all cause emotional distress. Here, NHS Choices (www.nhs.uk) gives advice on how you can help yourself when times are tough.

When you’re struggling with debt or have other money worries such as losing your job, feeling low or anxious is normal. As a result of this emotional distress, you may be feeling, behaving or thinking in ways you usually wouldn’t.

So what are the signs of emotional distress? Well it may include not being able to sleep well, struggling to concentrate, feeling tearful or a loss of appetite. Other symptoms may be that you change the way you think and behave – for example, having negative thoughts or avoiding seeing people.

How can you help yourself?

Top tips for coping with these low moods are to be more active, face your fears and don’t drink too much alcohol.Keeping active means not withdrawing from life. When people feel anxious, they sometimes avoid talking to others. Some people can lose their confidence about driving or travelling. If this starts to happen, facing up to these situations will generally help them become easier.

So keep seeing your friends and get out and about. If you’ve got more time because you’re not at work, take up exercise as it’ll help improve your mood – there’s lots of ways you can keep fit for free (visit the NHS Choices website for more details).

Facing your fears means not avoiding the things you find difficult. For example, if it looks like you’re going into debt, get advice on how to prioritise your debts. You can speak to our friendly Tenancy Support Officers if you need help to manage your money – just call us for free on 0800 052 2526 or email contactus@wwha.co.uk.

For some people, alcohol can become a problem. You may drink more than usual as a way of dealing with or hiding your emotions, or just to fill time. But alcohol won’t help you deal with your problems and it could add to your stress. If you’re worried about how much you drink, visit your GP for advice or contact Drinkline on 0800 917 8282. Calls are free and completely confidential.

When should you seek medical help?

If you’re still feeling worried, anxious or low after a few weeks, see your GP. You may find that talking to a professional could help, and your GP can advise you on talking therapy services in your area.

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Keep Wales Tidy:

Natural Buzz Grants Want to develop your green fingers? Then Keep Wales Tidy may be able to help.

This year, Keep Wales Tidy will be running the Natural Buzz project, where WWH resident groups will have the opportunity to apply for funding to improve the gardens where they live.

The project will see up to £55,000 worth of gardening vouchers up for grabs for people in Wales.

Resident groups can apply for up to £500 each and priority will be given to those groups who live within one of the seven Nature Action Zones below: • • • • • • •

Brecon Beacons Cambrian Mountains Conwy Valley Pembrokeshire coast South Wales Valleys Berwyn and Migneint Llyn Peninsula

With these vouchers, you will be able to get the following garden goods: • • • • • • • • •

Wildflower seeds Trees Bulbs Perennial plants Small hand tools Peat free compost FSC timber Gardening gloves Pots and planters

Resident groups who would like to apply can do so throughout the year - and with luck you too can have a helping hand to make your gardens beautiful. If you would like to apply please go to www. keepwalestidy.org/naturalbuzz

If you have any questions or would like some guidance please ring or text Sarah Willcox (Environmental Assistant) on 07823 342 292.

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

Your News & Views Stephenson Court Christmas celebrations Residents at Stephenson Court retirement scheme in Cardiff had a wonderful evening together at their Christmas party on the 18th December.

The party was even more special this year after generous businesses and individuals made donations for the event, following a burglary at the scheme in November which saw their party funds stolen.

The party was a real success enjoyed by all - with food, music and a good sing-along! The residents were overwhelmed by the kindness shown by so many people, and would like to give their heartfelt thanks to everyone who offered to help.

Llys Hafren

Christmas Fayre Residents at Llys Hafren in Newtown held their Christmas Fayre on the 6th December. The event was a huge success, with stalls bursting with items for sale including homemade cakes, plants/bulbs, bric-a-brac and a Christmas raffle. The residents managed to raise ÂŁ400 for their club funds.

Mrs Elizabeth Hodgson dressed up ready for the Christmas Fayre

Christmas comes

early for Oak Court residents Residents at Stephenson Court make a toast

On the 18th December Oak Court residents celebrated their Christmas lunch. The turkey was donated by Care in the Vale, who provide care and support to adults in the Vale of Glamorgan.

L-R Resident Sandy Thomas with Mark Miller from Care in the Vale and Scheme Manager Sally Lewis

Your News & Views | intouch | www.wwha.co.uk | 33

Your News & Views Christmas fun at Oak Meadow Court Oldwell Court Christmas Dinner Residents at Oldwell Court in Cardiff enjoyed their Christmas party, which included a raffle and buffet, with plenty of lovely homemade cakes. Musicians ‘The Plucking Four Strings’ also entertained residents, and gave their fee to charity. The evening raised £100 for POPSY - a support group for parents and carers of youngsters who are blind, have special needs or life limiting conditions.

Scheme Manager Sandy Houdmont said: “It was a wicked evening, everyone had a lovely time singing along to Christmas songs and there was even a dance or two going on. Special thanks to Amy, Wendy and Peter Blewett, Christine Phillips and everyone else who helped with organising the buffet and with clearing up afterwards.”

Residents of Oak Meadow Court in Cardiff had a brilliant time at their Christmas dinner. The close-knit group headed to the Masons Arms where they had a first-class meal. Jan and Mary led the singing of Christmas carols and the group played a game of Higher or Lower, with a £30 cash prize for the winner.

Oak Meadow Court residents have fun for Christmas.

Pictured above are residents from Fferm Y Bryn in Ystrad Mynach all dressed up and ready to enjoy their Christmas get together!

34 | www.wwha.co.uk | intouch | Birthdays & Anniversaries

Birthdays &

Anniversaries Happy Birthday

Pam Mrs Pamela Phillips of Byron Court in the Vale of Glamorgan celebrated her birthday on the 26th October.

“I am pleased to have reached 90 years of age as in recent years I have had some health problems. I was widowed which led me moving to Byron Court from Suffolk to be by my daughter.

Since I moved in here I have settled down well, made good friends and enjoy the companionship this offers.

“I put this achievement down to having a good sense of humour, sequence dancing with my husband Victor and also using a good moisturiser!

It all must have worked as my birthday was only a day after a two week stay in hospital”.

Who’s your hero?

Do you know someone who

In November 2015, we’ll be hosting our 8th annual Making a Difference Awards.

your neighbourhood?

The categories this year are:

Someone who goes that extra mile to help friends and neighbours? Maybe they’ve overcome big problems to get back into work or education? Or perhaps they tend to a beautiful garden and grow fruit and veg for neighbours to enjoy too?

NEW: Rising Star (for WWH residents

makes a real difference to

Whatever their story, we want to hear it!

under 21 who’ve done something fab for their community)

Good Neighbour Fresh Start Eco Champion Community Project Green Fingers Local Hero

For further information or to nominate someone, call our Communications Team on 0800 052 2526 or email contactus@wwha.co.uk

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

#CandR

Are you fortunate enough not to depend on your Winter Fuel Payment this winter?

By donating some or all of it to Care & Repair Cymru, you will help us to help older people living in fuel poverty across Wales.

To donate, visit www.careandrepair.org.uk

Ydych chi’n ddigon ffodus i beidio dibynnu ar eich Taliad Tanwydd Gaeaf y gaeaf hwn?

Drwy gyfrannu rhai neu’r cyfan i Care & Repair Cymru, byddwch ˆ sy’n byw mewn tlodi tanwydd ar yn ein helpu ni i helpu pobl hyn draws Cymru.

I gyfrannu, ewch i www.careandrepair.org.uk