Spring 2011
In this issue…
23 24 30
6
Spring 2011
Welcome…
Welcome to the We are also conscious that some of you
Spring edition will face a reduction in income due to
of iNside. In this changes to benefit payments. Please see
edition there is an page 11 for more information.
update on one of
The spring weather and lighter longer
the centres of
days makes the environment look
excellence –
different. We are suddenly aware of
Community Safety
flower beds that need tidying and areas
Team. You have
that look dishevelled. I certainly noticed
told us being
it, looking at my own back garden, and
safe in your
planning to find some time to ‘sort it
home is of major importance to you
out’ and make sure the daffodils and
and it is to Contour. We have given you
crocuses can raise their heads through
a peek at how we are improving gas
the leaves that have built up on
safety and taking action to manage
the ground.
antisocial behaviour.
The grounds maintenance contracts are
The impact of the Government’s cut in
currently being reviewed and a team of
expenditure is starting to be felt. Many
tenants and staff are meeting with
local authorities have advised us of the
contractors to choose the right
reduction in supporting people payments
combination at the right price so that
for older people service’s and vulnerable
the gardens where you live are kept to
groups. The Independent Living Team is
a good standard.
currently working hard to ensure we
manage this transition and provide I hope you enjoy the articles in this
support and assistance to affected edition and find lots of useful information.
people. We will consult with people over
any changes to the service as a result of
the councils’ decisions. Judith Winterbourne
In this issue r service areas
nt to us at few editions we will be visiting othe
Resident Engagement is importa your feedback..
over the past few months and we would welcome
Contour Homes and try out our recipe
the resident Equality Diversity and
Engagement We would also like to invite you to
y launching their new and send in a photo of you rself with your creation!
team have been bus edition, and the
Structure of Involvement, if you wou
ld like to We will publish the best in the next
e new friends see page 28 best photo will be awarded £25 (see page 30).
‘Be Involved’ and mak
py Snapping!
for more information. We hope you enjoy this edition - Hap
ure on our
We will be providing a regular feat
service performance, where we will report on
us that you
Alison Birch
‘How are we doing?’. You have told The Editor
would like further information on our repairs .co.uk
over the next Email: alison.birch@contourhousing
performance (see page 10), and
2
5 21
Contour News Resident Pages
4 Welcome to Symphony Housing Group 26 Julian and Connie’s Story
5 Apprenticeship Programme Update 27 Resident Noticeboard
6 A Day in the Life of A Repair 28 Be Involved
8 Partnership working drives
down No Access Cases
9 Fraud – Why it doesn’t Pay!
Lifestyle Pages
10 How Are We Doing?
11 Benefits Update
30 Recipes – Easter Crispy Cakes
12 Focus On… Community Safety
31 Fun and Puzzles
13 If In Doubt Keep Them Out!
14 Tenancy Audit – Coming Your Way 23
Regional Pages
16 Lancashire
18 South Greater Manchester,
Cheshire and Merseyside
20 North Greater Manchester
22 East Greater Manchester
24 Independent Living
24
3
Partnership Update
Welcome to
Symphony Housing Group
In previous newsletters we advised you that our parent part of the new Symphony Group (see company tree below).
company, Contour Housing Group, were in exploratory The important things to remember are that your landlord
talks with Vicinity, a Liverpool based organisation with will not change and the services will still be delivered to
homes in the North West. you by local staff. The change is only occurring at the
This is to update you that the amalgamation of parent level. Should you
Contour and Vicinity took place on 1st April have any questions or
2011. This has resulted in the formation of concerns please do not
one, new organisation which is called hesitate to contact Paul
Symphony Housing Group with an Hulme, Director of Business
expanded group of partners. Transformation
Contour Homes will be one of on 0345 602 1120.
these partners and will be
4
2 ye ars on… Apprenticeships
Apprenticeship Programme Update
Contour Homes is a keen supporter of Apprenticeship company departments to give our apprentices an
programmes and we fully recognise the benefits such understanding of the social housing sector in general and our
schemes can bring to both the business and to those who business in particular. The scheme takes up a considerable
sign up. Back in 2008 we invited young people to take part amount of time, resources and investment, but we feel that it
in our first apprenticeship scheme based at our head office benefits both unemployed young people and our own
in Salford Quays. business. I think all employers should consider the value of
Kate Garner applied to the Contour Homes Apprenticeship apprentices as we have found they enhance our workforce.”
Scheme after she left school at 16 and she will have Meet the Class of 2011
completed her three year Apprenticeship in September 2011. Hannah Smith is 18 years old and is currently working with
Kate said: “I have two years of work experience under my belt the Leasehold and Finance teams. Hannah said: “I have
and two good qualifications at the end of it, if I don’t get a job recently finished my A- levels, I think an Apprenticeship is
with Contour (which would be my ideal) I know that I’ve got a the best option for me rather than go straight to University,
better chance of securing employment than some of my as I can earn while I learn and gain good work experience.”
peers because I’ve got that all important work experience.”
Suzie Martin is 18 years old and currently works in Human
Wes Cunningham had studied IT at college after leaving Resources. She explains: “I left college in June where I
school, but found it hard to get a job because he didn’t have studied Hair and Beauty part-time. This is my first job and I
any experience. He joined the Contour Homes am really enjoying it.”
Apprenticeship scheme when he was 18 and is completing
his third year in the company’s ICT department, Wes said: Ben Waterworth is 19 years old and lives in Walkden, Ben
“I’m pleased to be working in ICT which is where my interests said: “I am a massive Bolton Wanderers fan. After finishing my
lie, I’ve already got a NVQ in Business Administration and I’m A-levels in May 2009 I took a year out to do football coaching
hoping to have completed a Microsoft IT course, by the time with children between 5 and 12 years old. I am now working in
I’ve completed the scheme later this year. You can’t beat an the Leasehold and Finance departments at Contour.”
Apprenticeship for giving you real work experience, which is Lauren Pendlebury is 16 years old and is currently working
often more valuable than a qualification.” with the Asset Management team, Lauren left school with 14
Gaynor Leary, Organisational GCSEs. Lauren said: “The Contour Homes Apprenticeship
Development Officer for Contour scheme is good because I can get both education and
Homes said: “Apprentices bring a experience while learning the value of money.”
fresh approach and a keenness to For more information about apprenticeships visit
learn. We offer a thorough www.apprenticeships.org.uk
grounding in a variety of
5
Wes and Hannah
Repairs
1 2
4
3
6
6
5
7
8
9
7
Gas Safety Inspections
Partnership Working Drives
Down No Access Cases
To avoid the damage caused by the exposure of our tenants One of the Registered Social Landlords who operates in the
and their visitors to Carbon Monoxide and to comply with the Salford area has received a very positive inspection
legal requirement of completing all annual gas appliance following the introduction of this procedure and a number of
inspections on time, Contour Homes has made a constructive local authorities across the country are seeking to use legal
agreement with Salford City Council and Bolton Council to powers to gain entry which is much quicker and cheaper
secure access to the properties who failed to give access to than the process we currently use. The Audit Commission
our contractors. have identified this as a good practice.
The process is that Contour will identify and send a list of Since the middle of November, Contour has passed seven
premises which have failed to give access, and the Councils cases to Salford Council and seven of them have given
will send a seven days letter explaining the consequences access within seven days without a warrant. The cost was
to the relevant address. If the occupant further refuses entry, £58 (per case) x 7=£406 where as if we use the alternative
then the Council will apply to the Magistrate Court for a arrangement it could have cost Contour Homes thousands
warrant to secure forced entry. and the process could have taken months to get the
intended result.
8
Insurance Claims
Fraud
Why it Doesn’t P
ay!
Contour’s Busines
s Assurance team
insurers to ensure works closely with
that genuine insu Contour’s
quickly and efficie rance claims are
Insurers (ABI) in ntly. However, ac dealt with
surance fraud is on cording to the Ass
fraudulent claims the increase and un ociation of British
is rising, which is fortunately, the nu
why we examine mber of
The ABI say that every claim in grea
insurance fraud ad t detail.
Britain’s insuranc ds an average of £4
e costs, which mea 4 per year to ever
ns that honest pe y household in
Some people belie ople have to pay fo
ve their crime to r the dishonest.
somebody always be victimless, but
pays. The more in there is no such th
premium, so we ha surance claims w ing as a victimless
ve less money to sp e pay out, the mor crime –
end on our housin e expensive our in
As more people m g stock. surance
ake fraudulent cl
seen more people aims, more detail
getting caught ou goes into examinin
“Contour Homes t. David Eden, Gro g them, which in
scrutinise every cl up Business Assur turn has
Not only is fraud aim in fine detail. ance Manager sa
a crime that coul We have a zero to id:
breach of your Te d result in a crim lerance approach
nancy Agreement, inal prosecution, to fraud.
which could resu it could also be se
Examples of frau lt in eviction.” en as a
dulent claims in 20
10 and why they
• Following an al do not pay:
leged trip outside
their leg. Followin a Contour proper
g a full investigat ty, a tenant subm
ion it was determ itted a claim for an
during a football ined that the inju injury to
match! ry was due to an
• A tenant submitt incident
ed a claim for inju
Contour’s commun ries said to have oc
al areas. The inve curred falling over
occurred whilst m stigation into the outside one of
otorcycling on th claim highlighted
e public highway. that the injury ha
• A claim against d
Contour for injuri
was dismissed as es sustained due to
fraudulent by the alleged faulty light
Contour’s expens Judge when it go ing on an external
es and could face t to court. The clai stairway
questions to answ prosecution as a re mant will have to
er regarding coun sult of our enquir pay
cil tax payments! ies they also has so
me
9
Performance
How are we doing?
We monitor and review our performance regul
arly so we can identify what we need to impro
ve on. It is
you as residents have a clear
about our performance so that
important to us that we are open and honest
picture of how we are doing.
t on how we are
ators to measure ourselves against and repor
We use a number of key performance indic g better or worse. In this
in performance is, i.e. if we are gettin
doing against the target and what the trend told us that this is
edition of the newsletter, we are concentrating on our repairs service as residents have
t. In the next edition, we will provide information on Antisocial
what you are most interested in hearing abou
P rformance
Behaviour and Neighbourhood Services.
e
July to Oct to Are we achieving Are we getting
Area Our Target
Sept 2010 Dec 2010 our target? better or worse?
Repairs
98.50% 97% 93%
Repairs completed in time (emergencies)
97% 93% 88%
Repairs completed in time (urgent)
95% 96% 90%
Repairs completed in time (routine)
97% 89% 91%
Appointments kept
91% 81% 85%
Jobs right first time
95% 98% 99.8%
Tenant satisfaction with the repairs service
move for Contour Homes
October and we believe that this is a positive
Jackson Lloyd was sold to Mears Group in improvements to
ents, are working with Mears to help them make
and our residents. Contour, along with resid
editions.
performance and will provide updates in future
like further information
above performance information or if you would
If you would like to comment on any of the ct Sharon Dawson, Performance
ing to improve them, please conta
on how we are achieving our targets or work
Manager on 0345 602 1120.
Key
quarter
of target Improved performance over the
Current performance is within 5%
5% and the quarter
Current performance is between No change in performance over
10% below target
the quarter
of target Performance has got worse over
Current performance is below 10%
10
Benefits Update
Non-Dependant Deduction
How you can ethoys
pa
d Rate Increase 20 11 -20 12
Standard Payment M a non-dependant has to
lowing In April 2011 the amount of money
rent using any of the fol pay towards the rent is increasing.
You can now pay your your
have difficulty paying normally lives with the
methods. Should you A non-dependant is someone who
ur Revenue Services Officer an adult son, daughter,
rent, please contact yo Housing Benefit claimant such as
cannot claim Housing
relative or friend. Non-dependants
e for their keep. The
Benefit for any payments they mak
on their gross income.
non-dependant charge will depend
2010 Rates 2011 Rates
Earnings per week
£7.40 £9.40
Under £120
£17.00 £21.55
£120 – £177.99
PRESS £23.35 £29.60
£178 – £230.99
£38.20 £48.45
£231 – £305.99
£43.50 £55.20
£306 – £381.99
£47.75 £60.60
£382 or over
Digital Television
Changes to the benefit system
If you are presently claiming Inca
pacity Benefit you will
be invited for a medical by the Dep and to those who claim Income Sup
artment for Work and port on the grounds
Pensions (DWP) at some point ove of illness or disability.
r the next 3 years.
The medical will assess if you are If you would like any advice or furth
eligible for er information about
Employment and Support Allowan the contents of this article please
ce (ESA). If you are contact your Financial
awarded ESA you should be no Inclusion Officer - Vikki Starling or
worse off, as benefit Sophie Green on
levels are being protected. 0345 602 1120.
If you are found fit for work, you
can appeal against this
decision and you can be paid ESA
at a reduced rate
until the outcome of your appeal
is known.
If you are not eligible for ESA you
will be asked to claim
Jobseekers Allowance instead, or
if you are a single
parent or a carer - Income Support
. These will generally
be paid at a lower rate than your
current Incapacity
Benefit or Income Support. How
much Housing Benefit
you get will depend on your circums
tances.
This change also applies to thos
e people
who claim Severe Disablement Allo
wance
11
Victims’ Champion
Bolton is one of a few areas across the
country that has access to a Victims’
Champion. Vicky Cordingley is employed
by Contour Homes but works across
multi agency organisations to represent
the voice of local victims.
Eddie Vickers, Community Safety
Manager for Contour Homes said:
“The Victims’ Champions network was
established by the Home Office after
a fety
serious case reviews in a number of
n ity S
high profile incidents (such as the tragic case of Fiona Pilkington)
highlighted the lack of support for victims of antisocial behaviour.
Co m mu
“The post is funded by the Home Office and was established in
July 2010 with a brief to work with 50 victims in a calendar year –
already Vicky and her partners have dealt with 42 people.”
Vicky is based within The Community Safety team at Bolton Council
offices in the town centre. She works very closely with neighbourhood
police teams, Bolton Council and other housing associations and has
established a team of five volunteers to assist in her task.
A Day in the Life
of a Community Safety
Community Safety
Officer
Officer, Eileen Co
Tameside and P x works within th
eak V ey areas.
all e Oldham, Rochda
Eileen works clos le, Middleton
teams delivering ely with the local
initiatives which neig hbourhood
community safety specifically targ
to hopefully bring et antisocial be
haviour and
8.55 am – Arrive about a safer co
at the office af mmunity for all.
in traffic. Log on ter being stuck
to see at least 2.00 pm – I rece
waiting for me. Th 20 new e-mails ive a call from Sh
e majority of e- one of our tenant elter regarding
me to meetings, mails are inviting s who has been ca
answers questions nuisance. They ad using a
cases or colleag about nuisance vises me that ou
ues asking advic engaging with them r tenant is now
e. and things are go
9.30 am - Leave direction. I make ing in the rig ht
the office to ge a file note of th
first appointmen t to Bolton for my e conversation.
t with some witn 2.15 pm – I carr
injunction case esses for an y on with my witn
I am involved in as I need to ge ess statements
. t the drafts appr
10.30 am – Meet witnesses and th oved by the
with witnesses (3 en e-mail them to
talk to them abou in total) and along with Tenanc the Solicitors
t what has been y Agreement, Nu
notes and advise happening. I make sheets and othe isance Diary
them that I will r pieces of evid
when I have draf contact them ence.
ted up their witn 2.35 pm – Look
finalise details of ess statements to at my watch and
what they have re “where has the da think to myself
is now 12.15 pm so lated to me. It y gone” and make
head back to my to Rochdale. my way
V ey, grabbing so
all office at P kea
me lunch on my wa
y. 3.30 pm - I arriv
1.30 pm – Back e at Rochdale
in my office I st Town Hall for the
witness statemen art to draft Case Interventio
ts from my nuisa Group meeting . Th n
the Neig hbourhoo nce case. One of is involved
d Officers asks partners hips from
to look over a nu me if I have tim the Rochdale area
isance case and e and we discuss
advice. The case give them some nuisance cases
content is very individuals in and and
telephone our So sensitive, so I around the area.
licitors to ask fo aim of the group The
relay this to the r some advice an is to intervene an
Neig hbourhood Of d offer help to ind d
I will help interv ficer and advise ividuals who may
iew the person in it. We have quite need
volved. a few cases to
1.45 pm – Write discuss and agre
a letter to a resi e actions . The
home interview, I dent regarding a meeting ends at
have received so 4.45.
nuisance and I me allegations of
need to discuss 4.50 pm – I drive
as I need to co these allegations home.
nsider their side
of the story.
12
The Importance of Gas Safety
Thank you to the 99.5% of Contour tenants who had their
Carbon Monoxide Kills
Annual Gas Service and Safety Check which was carried out
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a silent killer. It can infiltrate
by our Gas servicing contractor PH Jones. your home through the most apparently harmless
Contour takes gas safety very seriously, last year over 100 devices, like your boiler or cooker. It is impossible to see
tenants had legal action commenced against them and or smell, yet it is easy to protect yourself and your family
two people were evicted for not allowing Contour to from the risks. A few simple steps, including your free
annual gas safety check, could prevent needless deaths
access their homes. A number of tenants who still failed
or illness as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning.
to provide access despite contact from our Solicitors,
What is carbon monoxide?
were required to attend Court and made subject to an
Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas and has
injunction, which allows Contour into a property in order no colour, taste or smell.
to carry out the gas service. Contour were awarded an How do I recognise the symptoms?
average of £600 in costs for each case taken to court.
Recognising the early symptoms of carbon monoxide
Every tenant taken to court is required to pay the costs poisoning will save your life. Moderate or severe carbon
awarded. The Community Safety team lead on this monoxide poisoning causes impaired judgment,
process and take cases to Court. confusion, unconsciousness, seizures, chest pain,
shortness of breath, low blood pressure, and coma.
Over the past 10 years in the UK, there have been over 300
Thus, most victims are not able to move themselves
deaths resulting from carbon monoxide poisoning and gas
and must be rescued. Severe poisoning is often fatal.
explosions. Because carbon monoxide is invisible and
Do I need a carbon monoxide alarm?
odourless, it is known as the Silent Killer, the old and the
An audible alarm could save your life.
very young being most at risk. The annual gas service and
Remember, your annual gas safety check
safety check is free of charge to Contour tenants, so prevents the risk of carbon monoxide
please allow PH Jones access to your property. poisoning for you and your family.
CONTOUR GEARS UP TO TACKLE CRIME
The Community Safety team are currently looking into ways to issue, and many
tackle crime and improve home security across the region, and other themes of
work alongside residents to reduce incidents of doorstep crime community safety.
and burglary. The first event was
Doorstep Crime
Working alongside the Police, and your local crime reduction
awareness and
partnerships, we will be offering home crime reduction
was held in Bury.
assessments from March 2011 in the North Greater Manchester
The event was
and Central Lancashire regions. Through this, residents will be
organised by the
able to request an assessment of their home, where a member
Community
of the Community Safety team will be able to advise them on
Wardens and
how to increase the security within their property, and provide
supported by the
equipment such as light timer switches to deter opportunist
Community Safety
criminals from targeting their property. Should any resident be
team and took
interested in accessing this service, please contact our
place in March.
Community Safety team for more details on 0345 602 1120.
Details of future
In addition to this service, we will be running a ‘THINK – LOCK’ events will be sent out to all residents in advance, and we look
campaign across all regions, where Contour staff who notice forward to seeing you at them.
any security issues within residents homes whilst on your
We are constantly working to ensure that our residents
schemes, will post through a card to highlight any
live in decent homes, in decent neighbourhoods.
concerns to the resident. This will be followed by a
Simple things like making sure your doors
‘THINK-LOCK’ window sticker which can be placed in
are locked, windows are secure, and
your homes as a constant reminder to make sure your
lights are left on whilst you are out
property is safe from sneak thieves at all times.
can go a long way to reducing
We are also constantly looking to get involved in criminal activity in
community safety initiatives within your area to tackle this your area. 13
Bogus Callers
IF IN DOUBT
KEEP THEM
OUT!
Do not fall prey to Bogus Callers
Do not become a victim of Doorstep Crime
All too often we read in the newspapers about some
poor unsuspecting householder letting people into
their property and then finding out that they have money
or property missing. Do not let this happen to you or
your family.
People knock on doors and pretend that they are from
United Utilities, British Gas, telephone engineers or any
company they pretend to represent. These people can be
male or female.
If you do not know them or are not expecting them, do not
let them in unless you know for sure that they are genuine.
You can phone the company they say they are from, or
you can always phone the police if you suspect they are
bogus. If you use Care Link you can always phone them.
So remember, make sure that you put your safety chain on
before you open the door and be wary of any strangers –
If in Doubt, Keep them Out.
14
Tenancy Audit
Tenancy Audits Coming Your Way
Why are we carrying out a Tenancy Audit?
To enable us to provide an excellent service to you, we will be commencing our
Tenancy Audit visits very shortly. The check will enhance our work around diversity, your
access to our services, be pro-active in involving you in management and decision
making and will enable us to update your information.
We will visit every property and:
✓ Check that you, the legal tenant, is living at the property
✓ Update your household information, which will help with tailoring
our services to you
✓ Ensure you are complying with the terms of your Tenancy Agreement
✓ Provide you with information on our services that could benefit you or members
of your household
By carrying out the audit we will be able to:
✓ Ensure you get to know your Neighbourhood Officer, and have the opportunity to
discuss any aspect of our service with them
✓ Improve the information we hold on you and ensure that we are providing services
regardless of age, race, sex, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender
reassignment, or disability
✓ Improve your method of feeding back to us
✓ Hold more accurate and consistent records of customers households and
property conditions to help us with allocating future resources
✓ Identify a property which is unlawfully occupied and breaches the terms
of the tenancy conditions
What does the process involve?
✓ Every property managed by Contour Homes will be visited on a 3 yearly basis
by a member of the Neighbourhood Team
✓ You will be asked a few short questions and will be asked to provide proof of
identity, this could be a passport, driving licence or bus pass
✓ You will be asked to provide proof that you are living at the address, such as a utility bill
✓ You will be asked to provide details of all household members living in your home
with you
✓ A Neighbourhood Officer will walk round your home and garden with you to look
at the condition. You will be able to raise any concerns regarding your home and
the officer will also raise any concerns they have, and action these appropriately
15
Lancashire
Run Rabbit Run P rt 1 1
a
In the last edition, we reported on a fun and woodland make the run particularly
run that was hosted on the Callon estate testing, but enjoyable fun for all ages. The
for local runners. The event generated a race is also open to non-club runners too,
lot of interest and we are pleased to so do not be put off by the word “race” it’s
announce that The Fishwick “5” trail race just for fun, also ideal for a first timer.
2011 will take place on Sunday 29th May This year the run will incorporate the 15-18
at 10.30am. Flyers have already been
Janice Thompson distributed to local clubs, and runners are
year old junior challenge “a race within a
race” and all entrants will receive a goody
Regional Manager very excited at the challenge of the unique bag with a well earned drink included.
undulating terrain. The presentation ceremony will commence
As a thank you for their support in shortly after the last runner is ‘home’.
Central Lanchashire Office promoting the Guild Wheel Cycle route, last For further information please contact
Arundel Place, Avenham, year’s entrants have also been invited
Preston, PR1 3RN
Contour Homes on 0345 602 1120 and
back to test their stamina again. The hills ask for Diane Cato or Adele Mullen. There
Telephone: 01772 257 274
Opening hours: is a small entry fee (£5) all proceeds will
Monday Tuesday Thursday and be split between Callon Community Kids
Friday 9:00 to 12:30 and 13:30 to Club and The Wildlife Trust.
16:30 (closed 1 hour for lunch) What more can you ask for – A fun run,
Wednesday 9:00 to 12:30
helping the Callon Kids Club as well as
Blackburn - (Surgery only) the environment - See you on the day!
Newbarn Court, Rockcliffe Street,
Blackburn BB2 3AB
Tel: 0345 602 1120
Opening hours: Tuesday - 10am-12pm
Callon Office - (Surgery only)
16 Downing Street, Preston,
Lancs, PR1 4RH
Tel: 0345 602 1120
Opening hours:
Monday and Wednesday - 10am - 12pm
Mendip Road - (Surgery only)
152 Mendip Road, Chorley
Tel: 0345 602 1120
er…
Meet your Customer Support Offic
and I • Support for young people
My name is Stephanie Wilkinson
am the Customer Support Officer
for • Support to downsize to a more
your area. My role is to help tena
nts to manageable property
to help
access the support they require • Getting a Support Worker
to
them sustain their tenancies and
services • Support for Domestic Violence
signpost people to access local
where necessary. This may include
: If you feel you may benefit from any
on 0345
support then please contact me
• Support if you are struggling to 602 1120 or call into the Housing
Office
efits
maintain your home to discuss this. For any rent or ben
ncial
ohol queries, please contact your Fina
• Support if you have a drug/alc
Inclusion Officer, Vikki Starling.
son problem
Stephanie Wilkin
16
Europeans Come to Preston
Preston recently hosted a delegation from the Eurocities
After asking many questions, all the delegates commented
Economic Development Forum. As part of this forum, a
positively on what Contour Homes and the Callon Community
working group on Urban Regeneration has been formed for
Kids Club had achieved over the years and left the meeting with
the visit chaired by Martin Eyres, Head of European Affairs at
ideas and food for thought about their own inner city areas.
Liverpool City Council. Five Countries took part in the visit
including; the Netherlands, Norway, Germany, Portugal Some of the feedback received was:
and England. Netherlands: Learned the importance of engaging with the
The party visited various parts of inner Preston, and Contour community and involving people from all backgrounds. They
Homes were asked by the Local Authority to take part and also learned that Contour Homes is doing a great job in
‘showcase’ the Callon estate and all the valuable work it has tackling the physical challenges of the area.
achieved over the years. During their visit to Callon they were Norway: Learned the importance of a neighbourhood
shown a short film about the estate prior to any regeneration management presence within the community. They were
taking place, and our Neighbourhood Warden, Colin inspired by the changes achieved in the area.
Makinson gave a very engaging presentation about the
area and how much Callon has improved over the years.
This was due mainly to residents becoming involved in
the area, working with Contour Homes and the Kids
Club, and providing more activities and opportunities for
young people. We were also able to demonstrate to the
group the huge reductions in crime over the years, partly
due to CCTV which is installed across the whole estate.
The makeup of the area, the role of Contour, and how
partners have worked together over the years were also
topics discussed.
The presentation highlighted to the visitors that the
involvement of the local community was central to
developing successful and sustainable solutions to local
problems. A walk around the estate followed, where
Contour staff accompanied the visitors.
Colin Makinson at the Eurocities
Economic Development Forum
Refurbishments at Albyn Bank Road
Residents living in the surrounding areas, may have noticed
being used to convert the shops into two very much needed
that the hoardings have now been erected around the old
large four bedroom family houses.
shops on Albyn Bank Road, Avenham, Preston. This project is
one of the final pieces of the jigsaw for the improvements on The Contactors, H.T. Forrest who have started on site, will
the Avenham Estate. The two shops situated below two complete the project by the end of March 2011. Work to the
maisonettes, which have been empty for nearly 10 years, will rear of the properties will also take place to demolish the
soon undergo a complete refurbishment. The grant funding is many disused garages for the provision of secure car parking.
Before
Work in progress at Albyn Bank Road 17
South Gtr Manchester, Cheshire and Merseyside
Following the launch of the Customer Services Directorate in September 2010,
we would like to introduce the team...
Customer Support Officer
Helen Hudson is the new Customer team within Independent Living. They
Support Officer. This is a new role to will provide the information in the form
Contour Homes and she will provide of a report and then pass the case to
Taranjit Dosanjh assistance to those who are vulnerable. our specialist team. When a case is
Regional Manager Primarily this role will help sign-post passed over we will give out the
individuals to the services that name of the Officer who will take the
Head Office are available. case over.
Quay Plaza 2, First Floor, Lowry Mall,
Salford Quays, Salford, M50 3AH The typical things Helen will do are • Check that residents with support plans
Tel: 0345 602 1120 listed below: are working. They will do this by
Opening hours: 09:00 to 17:00
monitoring the plan direct with the
Liverpool Office - (Surgery only) • Set up a directory which covers
39b Hillview, Aigburth, Liverpool,
agency providing the support.
services available in a local authority
L17 0EQ • Review all cases that have been
Tel: 0345 602 1120 area. That includes what is available
Opening hours: from voluntary organizations as well flagged as vulnerable every year
Wednesday - 14:00 to 16:00 checking direct with individuals if their
the Council.
Handforth & Stockport Office circumstances have changed.
26-27 The Paddock, Handforth, • Look after adaptations – if it is a small
Cheshire, SK9 3HQ adaptation like a handrail they will order • Regularly review cases where we are
Tel: 0345 602 1120 particularly concerned about
Opening hours: it themselves, but if it is anything larger
Monday 14:00-16:00, Wednesday it will be forwarded to the Adaptations the household.
and Friday 10:00-12:00
Neighbourhood Support Officer
Pearl Hickman is the newly appointed Support Officer, Pearl will contact you
direct should she need to speak to you. Some of the types of things Pearl is
involved with are listed below:
• Organise and carry out Scheme Inspections - Every scheme will get
an inspection twice a year, but some may get more.
• Carry out Tenancy Audits - There are cases where we feel contact
with the resident is essential because they have not had a visit
from Contour Homes all year, or we have received a report of
possible tenancy fraud.
Should we have problems gaining access to homes where a Gas
Safety Inspection is necessary, the Neighbourhood Support
Officer will manage the case by checking reports every day and
making every effort to get access to complete the safety inspection.
Top row (Right to left): Paul Latham, Richard Smith,
Anne McGrath, Michelle Peart-Simpson, Gwynneth Lloyd.
Bottom Row (Right to left): Helen Hudson, Pearl Hickman,
Taranjit Dosanjh
18
Neighbourhood Officers
We have 6 Neighbourhood Officers in this region: domestic abuse, hate crime, homophobia then it would be
Tariq Julani Broughton & Greengate in Salford referred to the Community Safety team. The Neighbourhood
Michelle Peart-Simpson Salford Officer looks after the case until legal action is required. At
Anne McGrath Manchester & Hatro Court this stage, the case is passed to our specialist Community
Gwynneth Lloyd Stockport and Cheshire East Safety team. If any cases get passed on, you will be given
Richard Smith Stockport and Cheshire East the name of the person looking after your report and the
Paul Latham Trafford and Merseyside Neighbourhood Officer will update you on the progress.
• Reports of Abandoned properties must be forwarded to
Each Neighbourhood Officer is allocated to a specific patch
your Neighbourhood Officer.
and they will be your first point of contact depending on
where you live. With our specialised teams in place, there will • If you notice a garden is particularly untidy, please inform
be some cross over, but rest assured, when you contact us your Neighbourhood Officer.
you will be given a name. • If someone reports an abandoned car, please inform your
There are many different reasons why you may wish to contact Neighbourhood Officer.
your Neighbourhood Officer, but here are a few senarios: • If you would like to request permission to make an
• Letting empty properties is split between the improvement to your home or take in a lodger, please
Neighbourhood Officers and the Housing Options team. contact your Neighbourhood Officer.
The Neighbourhood Officer deals with viewings and sign • We will carry out services at a scheme through other
ups. Application queries such as availability of empty agencies such as Gardeners and Window Cleaners. Should
properties would be referred to the Housing Options team. you have any query relating to these services, please refer
• Transfer visits are co-ordinated by the Neighbourhood them to your Neighbourhood Officer and they will contact
Officer, however the application is managed by the Housing the contractor on your behalf.
Options team. Mutual exchanges applications would still be • If you notice a property has been broken in to, please
dealt with by your Neighbourhood Officer. advise your Neighbourhood Officer. Call the police first if
• Reports of nuisance would be handled by your you see someone breaking in.
Neighbourhood Officer. When you contact Contour Homes, • If there is a major incident like a flood or a fire, or you are
the Customer Contact team will ask you a series of worried about a neighbour tell the Neighbourhood Officer.
questions. If the case is serious - involves violence, Again call the emergency services first.
I hope you have found this tour of
the team useful, please remember
we have all this information on
the website. Please visit
www.contourhomes.co.uk
19
North Greater Manchester
Inspiring People Awards 2010
We are pleased to announce that stairwells. I must single out Les for special
Community Warden, Les Elkins has been praise as he regularly goes the extra mile.
crowned as ‘truly inspirational ‘ by his He took a terminally ill tenant to a football
colleagues at Contour Homes. match on his day off and helped with the
funeral arrangements when a deceased
Les, who works on the Rivers (Hillock)
tenant’s relatives lived too far away. Les is
Estate in Whitefield, was chosen from over
one in a million.”
Karen Hughes 30 nominees as the company’s Inspiring
Person of the Year 2010. Ever-modest Les said: “I just get pleasure
Regional Manager out of helping people, although receiving
A keen fan of Bury Football Club, Les was
the award from colleagues has made me
Bolton Office nominated by Senior Community Warden
feel very proud.”
12 Silverwell Street, Andrew Taylor who said: “My three
Bolton, BL1 1PP Community Wardens, Lois
Tel: 0345 602 1120 Rickerby, Darren Cosgrove
Opening hours: and Les Elkins never cease
Every weekday except to amaze me with the
Wednesday - 09:00 to 16:30
thoughtful help which they
Wednesdays - 09:00am to 12:30
gave to tenants and
Whitefield Office
(Surgery only) residents alike. They
Albert Place, Off Albert Road, regularly help the elderly
Whitefield, M45 8NE and infirm residents with
Tel: 0345 602 1120 shopping, advice and other
Opening hours: errands whilst still carrying
Monday - 14:00 to 16:00 out their important function
Wednesday and Friday
of cleaning communal
10:00 to 12:00
Besses Boys Band Andrew Taylor and Les Elkins
The second half of the concert started with the Training Band
Contour Homes sponsored the annual Besses Boys Band
conducted by Principle Percussionist, Jonathan Taylor.
Christmas Concert which was held in St. Michael’s Old Church
Performing a short slot of three pieces, ‘Troika’, ‘Where is
Hall on Ribble Drive, Whitefield on a very cold and snowy
Love’ from Oliver and ‘A Christmas Conundrum’, the young
Sunday afternoon in December.
children played with enthusiasm and style. Jon spoke to the
The concert was attended by many local residents who really audience of the great year that the Band has had and that the
enjoyed the music and mince pies on offer. Playing to a players were reaping the benefits of all their hard work and
packed hall that included the local Mayor and Mayoress, the had performed extremely well. The large audience finished
local Councillor and Mrs John Byrne the band performed a the enjoyable afternoon with some rousing carol singing and
selection of the pieces that have been performed over the last mulled wine.
year as well as seasonal favourites.
If you would like to learn to play a brass
instrument, the Training Band meets every
Monday evening between 5pm and 7pm at
the Besses Band HQ: 2 Moss Lane,
Whitefield, M45 6HG (behind the Olde
Red King).
For further information, please contact the
Training Band Musical Director, Jon Taylor
on – 07709 287 852.
www.bessesboysband.com
20
Hero Of The Hour – Fire At Ogden Close
y was in
On 10th October 2010 at approximately 2:00pm, Kieren Beckle
his back garden on Ribble Drive and became aware of the smell of
adjacent
smoke. After running upstairs, he saw that the windows of the
property on Ogden Close were full of smoke. Keiren ran to Ogden Close
h the
and knocked on No. 9, there was no answer, so he shouted throug
letterbox. He then ran to No. 11 to alert them of the fire. He entered No.
was
9, and tried to alert the occupants, unaware at this stage that there
no-one in the property. Keiren then telephoned the Fire Brigade. He
then went downstairs and alerted no. 5 and 7 to the danger.
been far
Without Kieren’s swift action, the outcome of this fire could have
only the flat and communal areas were Neighbourhood Officer Lesley Rile
more serious, thanks to him y
ted with Kieren Beckley
affected. In recognition of Kieren’s bravery, Contour Homes presen
him with £50 Marks and Spence r Voucher - Well done Keiren and
Thank You!
smoke
As a result of this fire, the communal area of the flats was badly
damaged and Contour wanted to show their appreciation to the
d to
residents in bearing with us whilst the communal area was restore
its original condition. Tenant s of 5, 7 and 11 Ogden Close were
presented with a bouquet of flowers.
Following this incident, Contour Homes has obtained
an Antisocial Behaviour Injunction, Exclusion Order,
and Power of Arrest on the perpetrator.
Close
Lesley with residents of Ogden
Award Winning Roots Project
Roots Project Worker, Liz Douglas from The Pungle reduction in the number of calls we are currently receiving
Community House has recently won a national award for her indicates that we have been successful. We believe there is
pioneering project. still work to be done and still meet on a regular basis to try
The single mum-of-two has won £15,000 towards the running and improve things further on the estate.
costs of the Roots Project from national social entrepreneur The funding means that Liz can continue to support residents
charity ‘Unlimited’, which helps social schemes that make a on the Pungle by providing personal learning and development
difference to communities. Teenagers and other groups have in partnership with Contour Homes and other agencies.
been involved in setting up youth groups, holding
construction skills and social development classes.
There is a youth drop-in facility on Friday evenings, parent
and toddler groups and children’s classes, access to
computers and an Elite group for older residents.
Following the success of the model, Liz Douglas is hoping to
extend it throughout Bolton, and Liz would like to encourage
local businesses to become involved, either through funding
or by helping teenagers get work experience.
The Pungle has a history of antisocial behaviour involving
youth and adult antisocial behaviour, but over the last
eighteen months there has been a significant decrease in
reported antisocial behaviour and this is likely to be due to a
number of initiatives.
Contour Homes, St Vincent’s Housing Association, Bolton
Council and Greater Manchester Police have been working Liz Douglas (right) at the Pungle Community House
closely together to address antisocial behaviour, and the 21
East Greater Manchester
Limeside Park Improvements
The improvement work has now area on the Park. If successful
been completed on the Multi their next aim will be to seek
Use Games Area on Limeside further funding for a junior play
Park. It now has new basketball area – we will keep you posted.
posts, a tennis net (steel) and
The group has also set
goal posts. We hope the new
up a Facebook page, search for
Frank Mullin games court funded by the
National Lottery grant will be Limeside Friends of the Park
Regional Manager
well used by the community. at www.facebook.com,
alternatively if you wish
The Friends of Limeside Park,
Avenues and Hollins Office to join the group, please
supported by Contour have
(Surgery only)
also put in a bid to Community contact Sarah Furbey at the
50 First Avenue, Oldham,
OL8 3SH Spaces to fund a toddler play Avenues office.
Tel: 0345 602 1120
Opening hours:
Easter Events
Monday - 14:00 to 16:00
Wednesday and Friday
10:00 to 12:00
Peak Valley Housing Office Look out for Easter events at the Avenues and
100 Hattersley Road East, Hollins Community Hall. The local group
Hattersley, Cheshire, SK14 3EQ ‘Parents for Play’ (www.parentsforplay.org.uk)
Tel: 0345 270 3501 will be running play sessions and Oldham
Opening hours: Sports Development will be delivering sports
Every weekday except activities on the park. Lookout for flyers or call
Wednesday: 09:00 to 16:00
Wednesdays 09:00 to 12:00 the Avenues office for more information.
Bungalow ideal for the Evans Family
ood Road, Hattersley
We are pleased to announce that four new-build bungalows on Underw
built for residents aged 55
have recently been completed. The 2 bed bungalows have been
years plus and include level access showers, warden call units and off-road parking.
by the Group as
These bungalows are the most "Green" new homes ever to be built
they are built to Level 4 of the “Code for Sustainable Homes”. This is a
government initiative to build more environmentally sustainable
homes. Although the bungalows have been traditionally built, they
have been very well insulated and have an energy efficient
condensing boiler with a fuel saver, which means that the
residents should make a significant saving on their annual energy
costs. Also contributing to the lower bills, is the presence
of photovoltaic tiles on the roof, which harness the suns rays to
create electricity and feed it into the National Grid. This "credit" is
then off-set against the tenant’s electricity costs when their meter
is read and shows up on their bills. They are a fantastic addition
for our older residents of Hattersley.
Pictured: Brian and Beryl Evans
22
Royal Wedding - Party in the Park
A ‘Party in the Park’ for the Royal Wedding is planned
for April 29th at Limeside Park. It will be ‘street party’
style for residents to get to know each other and have
fun - Look out for the flyers and posters or visit
www.hollinwoodtogether.co.uk
Hollinwood Together Festival
This year’s festival will take place on Sunday July 10th at
Limeside Park. We hope to build on last year’s success
and make the event a highlight of the calendar! If you
would like be involved in helping plan it or would like a
stall, please contact Sarah Furbey at the Avenues office or
email sarah.furbey@contourhousing.co.uk.
Award Winning Downsizing Scheme
Oldham Council was the winner of the As part of the scheme, two Contour
Guardian Public Service Award for Service tenants from Mitchell Street and Trafalgar
Delivery, Housing & Regeneration 2010. Street were involved in a six way
The award was for the Downsizing exchange in partnership with other
Scheme in which tenants with properties housing providers in the area. Six families
larger than required were offered were identified after they had either
incentives to move into a smaller property. expressed an interest in downsizing or
were on a waiting list for a larger home
As Oldham has the country’s highest level
and we are pleased to report that the
of overcrowding outside London, this
families have now settled into their new
scheme is vital in helping deal with homes which are better suited for
this problem. their requirements.
‘Entertainment in the 1950’s’
People living in the Hollinwood, the young people involved and
Coldhurst and St Mary’s areas of showcases interviews and the visits
Oldham recently gained a unique insight made to various sites in Oldham and
into entertainment in the 1950s, thanks we are pleased to announce that the
to a visual and auditory exhibition project has been selected to feature in
organised by Contour Homes on 9th the Community Spaces section at
December 2010. The exhibition Oldham Gallery from August 20th to
showcased photographs and factual 25th September 2011.
information both past and present,
The project also involved residents
relating to entertainment in the 1950’s.
from Regenda Housing, AKSA
Following the success of Housing and First Choice Homes
the project. A DVD and young people from different
‘Saturday Night areas of Oldham, and was funded
entertainment in 1950’s’ by Heritage Lottery Fund Young
has been produced by Roots programme.
23
Independent Living
Royce Court Gets Digital
The Contour Community Investment team Ross Hemmings, Regeneration
are working with Royce Court to help the Investment Officer said “Royce Court was
residents learn and develop computer the only scheme that managed to get
skills and give them access to the internet funding. Hopefully we can use it as a pilot
to support them being more independent. to deliver digital skills and then look at
other funding to help more of our older
Royce Court managed to secure funding
residents to access the internet and all the
from Get Digital, a government funding
savings and information available.”
Gill Long scheme, to help older people get online
and learn new skills, to enable older people The Get Digital funding and equipment
Regional Manager living in sheltered housing to benefit from also comes with 12 sessions of training to
communal facilities to access the internet enable local residents to learn new skills
and online services, and a bespoke digital and get access to many of the online
Head Office literacy training programme. services that many of us take for granted.
Quay Plaza 2, First Floor,
Lowry Mall, Salford Quays, Royce Court funding will include, a new www.getdigital.org.uk
Salford, M50 3AH computer for shared use, adapted for
older residents and a Wii-Fit. There will be
Tel: 0345 602 1120
a programme of free training and
Opening hours:
resources for residents and extensive
09:00 to 17:00 advice to sustain digital literacy activities.
Residents learning new skills
24
Emergency SMS! Contact 999 by text
What is Emergency SMS • The person who committed the crime is near
If you have a hearing loss, or have difficulty talking, you might • There is a fire or people are trapped
not be able to make a voice call from a mobile phone. • You need an ambulance urgently
Emergency SMS allows you to use the text facility on your • Someone is in trouble on the cliffs, on the shoreline or
mobile phone to contact the emergency services and is part missing at sea.
of the standard 999 service. Since September 2009, the If an emergency happens we advise you only to use SMS to
emergency SMS service has handled hundreds of real contact the emergency services if you are unable to use the voice
emergency calls and thanks to its use criminals have been 999 or the text relay 18000 service as this method will take longer.
arrested, lives have been saved and babies have been
Remember, you will only be able to use the service if your
born safely.
mobile phone is registered. This is a UK-wide service but
It could be a vital service for you if you can not make a voice CANNOT be used abroad.
call – Register now!
As with the standard 999 emergency calls, if you misuse
1.Register the service action may be taken against you; this will
Register to use the service by texting the word ‘register’ to include, but not be limited to your mobile number being
999 on your mobile phone, then follow the instructions you barred for this service.
will received. For more information on the service go online
at: www.emergencysms.org.uk
2.Send a SMS text to 999
Please do not make test texts – only use emergency SMS for
real emergencies state:
Who?
Police, Fire and Rescue, Ambulance or Coastguard.
What?
Briefly, what is the problem.
Where?
Exactly where is the problem. Give the name of the road and
town. Plus more information such as a house number or
nearby landmarks i.e. Church, School, Pub.
3.What happens next?
The emergency service will either ask you for more
information or will tell you help is on the way. Do not
assume that your message has been received until the
emergency service send a message back.
A ‘delivery report’ does not mean your message has
been received.
It will typically take about 2 minutes before you get the
first reply. If you do not get a reply within 3 minutes
please try again or find other ways of getting help.
Using the service
Please do not make test texts – only use emergency
SMS for real emergencies.
For example, if:
• A person’s life is at risk
• A crime is happening now
• Someone is injured or threatened
25
Real Residents
Julian & Connie’s Story
Julian and Connie are both tenants at Warwick Mews, which provides supported housing for adults with learning
disabilities. They are helped to manage their tenancies with Contour Homes who are the landlord. Julian and Connie
originally met when they were both at school. They have been together for the last 5 years and recently became engaged.
They are now saving up to get married. This is what they have to say about their service…
Julian’s Story I now eat lots of salad,
My name’s Julian and vegetables and fruit
I have lived at and I allow myself
Warwick Mews since some treats at
it opened in 2006. I the weekend!
share a bungalow with
Warwick Mews is part
three other people
of the Macclesfield
and I’m really happy
living here. Living here Supported Living
has made a big Network of
difference to me. accommodation for
adults with learning disabilities. Warwick Mews provides long
At the service I get support with managing my money, food
term supported housing for 32 people, each property has
shopping, cleaning and cooking. I even completed a cookery
course, which I have a certificate for. I also get support to help comfortable lounge/living space as well as a bedroom for
me do the things I enjoy such as drawing and going to the each tenant.
gym. I also like to go out with my friends. Warwick Mews is designed to give people their own tenancy in a
I now work in a charity shop two days a week, where I help home they can make their own. They will be encouraged to be
sort out the stock and chat to customers. A volunteer supports independent, to do things they enjoy and live a healthy life. Fully
me to do this by helping me to get to and from work. I’m really trained staff encourage tenants to lead a valued life, make choices
happy with the service as I am able to do more for myself now. and decisions for themselves, develop and achieve potential and
Connie’s Story to maintain contacts and interests in the wider community.
My name’s Connie and I live next door to Julian at Warwick If you would like more information about this service
Mews. I have also lived here since it opened in 2006. please contact Gill Dignan on 0345 602 1120.
I live in a shared bungalow with three other people.
I love living here as I have my own space but I
also enjoy the company of other people.
I feel more independent and able to do
more for myself.
I get support so I can manage day to
day tasks such as shopping, cooking
and cleaning. I also get support to
do things I enjoy such as attending
day centres, going bowling, the
cinema and to the local disco.
I also wanted to lose some weight,
so I have someone from an
agency who supports me to go to
Slimming World every week.
26
Wor ki ng du ring th e dayt ime? Noticeboard
Why not ask abo ut eve nin g and Sat
urday mor nin g
repairs app oint ments.
If you are wor king or regu larl y away
from you r home
duri ng the wee k, you may be able to
boo k an
app oint men t slot for you r repa ir for
up to 6.00pm each
even ing on Mo nday to Frid ay and also
on Sat urday
mor ning s up to 12.00pm .
The se can be requeste d whe n you con
tact us abo ut you r
repa ir, just ask if a slot is ava ilable at
a time which may
be more suited to you r nee ds.
on
f i ve i n Bro ugh tills
Ne w Job s f o r 1 with a new job and new sk
w ill st a rt 201
Fi ve lo ca l pe op le ing of fe re d by
th e
ai n in g oppo rt un it y be d Pe op le
th an k s to a tr to ur H omes an
st m en t te am at C on
C ommun it y In ve
Vo ic e Media . d
it y so urci ng an
ill wor k in th e commun
Th e trai nee s w ie s ac ro ss C on to
ur
di st ri bu ti ng lo ca l news st or
to w ri te
w ill le a rn h ow
pu bl ic at io n s. Th ey co rd au di o an d
v ideo
st or ie s, ta k e ph ot og ra ph s, re e
sk ill s. Th e sch em
prac tica l media
an d as wel l as Fu n d m an aged
by th e
is fu n de d by th e Fu tu re Jo bs h elps
Pe n si on s w h ich
De pa rt men t fo r Wor k s an d
x mon th
ge t a jo b. Th e si
1 8 – 24 ye a r olds 6 h ou rs pe r wee
k pa id
pl ac emen t of fe rs wor k fo r 2 ba se d at
age an d w ill be
at th e n at io n a l m in imum w
rum in S a lf ord.
th e In n ov at io n Fo
Th e C h r is t m a s
Emerge ncy Se rv ic e
Followi ng the Chr istm as bre ak we rece
ived a
num ber of rep orts abo ut diff icul ties acc
ess ing our
eme rge ncy rep airs ser vice dur ing this
per iod and we
would like to tak e this opp ort unit y to
apo logise for
the delays in ans wer ing. The end of last
yea r saw
some of the mos t ext reme weathe r exp
erie nce d in
this countr y for many yea rs and this
had a big
effe ct on the ser vice deli ver y. A rev iew
of our out of t
hou rs ser vice pro cedure s had alre ady a co py of ‘Ou r Comm itmen
commenced If yo u have no t rec eived
and ext reme weathe r will be conside red ur maga zine ple as e
in the to Yo u’ do cume nt wi th yo
developmen t of any fut ure arrangeme 0345 602 1120 27
nts . co nt ac t Be lin da Haye s on
BE IN VOLVED
The Equality, Diversity and Engagement Team have
worked with existing involved residents and all
areas of the business to develop various new
and exciting ways of being involved with
Contour Homes.
You can influence the decision making process or help us to
shape the services we provide. It can be as simple as talking
over the phone, to attending a meeting.
?
We have a dedicated team who can provide you with information,
support and development to help you become involved.
We really value your views and will use them to improve our
services to you and other residents.
We appreciate the time you commit to helping us improve
the services we deliver. We have a dedicated team that
will provide you with information, support and training
so that you can feel confident to become involved and
empowered to really make a difference.
Low level
?
Occasional meetings or communication via
telephone, email or letter of up to 2 hours per
contact. For example being involved with Shape
?
My Service.
Medium level
Regular meetings or group related tasks
of up to 3 hours per contact. For example
becoming a member of a
Regional Committee.
High level
Regularly scheduled meetings lasting up to 4
hours and requiring long term commitment.
For example being part of the Customer
Service Committee.
28
I want to give something back to Contour Homes but
don’t like to attend lots of meetings. I have lots of skills
to offer and enjoy reading documents and being part of
short projects. I’ve met lots of other like minded people in
my time getting involved and its enhanced my development.
Tess Simpson
Edit My News Shape My Service
Influence the produc Be contacted when we are
Read and Review
tion of
cations
your newsletter an
d ensure reviewing, revising, updating
Read and review publi news is relevant.Th
is can be or creating a new document
ent stamp
giving them the resid done from your ow
n home or and offer us as little or as
of approval. by attending the Ed
it My News much time as you like.
panel twice every qu
arter.
I am very busy but I enjoy attending meetings as long as
we achieve an outcome. I’m Interested in receiving
performance information, removing barriers to services and
ensuring Value For Money through Contour Homes Services.
Murray Corbin
Regional Committees
In This Together
An opportunity to be part of
Remove potential quarterly meetings, discussing
barriers to our service local issues and receiving
s,
Repairs and Maintenance meeting bi-monthly wi performance information for
th
Focus on everything related residents to drive your area.There is also a
to repairs and maintenance, change forward. Sheltered Committee for
attending bi-monthly meetings. Sheltered residents.
I have lots of time to offer and like to affect
decisions that make a difference to both residents
and the business. I enjoy attending meetings and was
more than happy to follow a recruitment process.
This makes excellent use of my skills and experience
and I also enjoy meeting new and interesting people.
Len Lloyd
Customer Service
Committee The Board
ectors
Resident Insp Be accountable to the wider Make decisions affecting
itor our
Measure and mon resident base. Scrutinise the organisation and ensure
service
services against performance and recommend we are running lawfully
accredited
standards. Be CIH improvements to services. and ethically.
ur findings
and feedback yo The Customer Service
Services
to the Customer Committee embraces
Committee. real scrutiny.
29
Recipes
Chocolate Easter Cakes
Ingredients Method
• 8oz Chocolate • Break the chocolate into small pieces and slowly heat in a pan
• 3tbps Golden Syrup • Add the golden syrup, margarine and stir until all melted
• 2 oz Margarine • Remove from the heat and add the cornflakes
• 4oz Cornflakes • Spoon into cake cases
* Pre-purchased • Decorate with pre-purchased chocolate eggs (optional)
Chocolate Eggs • Refrigerate for 2 hours and enjoy
If you have made these cakes, please let us know by sending in a
photograph of you with your creation. The best photo will win a £25 gift voucher!
If you have a recipe you would like to share, please send it
to Contour Homes, Freepost RPAU-JBLE-CUJX, Quay Plaza
2, First Floor Lowry Mall, Salford Quays, Salford M50 3AH.
30
Fun and Puzzles
Spring Wordsearch T L E M W O N S S S A R G L A
Find all 30 words, cut out and send your completed G C Y C L A M E N S A L I L P
wordsearch to us and you could win £25. G N G R O W T H R L L L L R S
O Y I I D L S A R A I E S N N
Allergies Frogs Planting
L A L N K A I E B E R R O H E
April Golf Rain
Bees Grass Renewal F M L O A N F E S G M I P W W
Crocuses Green Robins E N A E E E S F I U L R R A L
Cyclamens Growth Season I O B Q R A L E O E C S A B E
Daffodils Irises Snowmelt R S T U B E S C D D F O S W A
Dandelions Lilies Spring I A F I G R N N G L I N R H V
Easter March Cleaning
S E O N N R A E O N I L C C E
Equinox May Tulips
E S S O I D E W W B I R S B S
Flowers New Leaves Warmer
S I N X R G E E O A A R M E G
Remember to include your name and address (and phone A Y F L P R O R N M L W P E O
number if you have one). The address is: Contour Homes, E T E W S S P I L U T R S S R
Freepost RPAU-JBLE-CUJX, Quay Plaza 2, First Floor Lowry R E T S A E P L A N T I N G F
Mall, Salford Quays, Salford M50 3AH.
Spot the difference for Kids
Spot the 8 changes and you could win £25 in Gift
Vouchers. Ring the differences then ask an adult to cut
out and send your entry to the address below. Don’t
forget to include your name, address and your age.
Contour Homes, Freepost RPAU-JBLE-CUJX, Quay Plaza
2, First Floor Lowry Mall, Salford Quays, Salford M50 3AH
Last Edition Winners
Wordsearch
S Wilson, Middleton
Spot the Difference
C Mackay, Cheshire
31
This is a newsletter, if you
are having difficulty reading or
understanding this document, we
can provide this copy in large
print, braille, audio, or you could
request a translation. Please
contact our Customer Support
Team on 0345 602 1120.
RNID Text Relay
Text phone user? Contact us via RNID
Text Relay– dial 18001 0345 602 1120
(There is no extra charge to your call)
Contour Homes would like to express their appreciation to the following people, without whom this magazine
would not have been possible:
Ann Rawlins, Yvonne Carrington, Maureen Tucker, Len Lloyd, Christine Tomlinson, Veronica Shaw, Eileen Cox, Kerien
Beckley, Liz Douglas, Brian and Beryl Evans, Residents of Royce Court and Julian and Connie.
If you have a comment about the Magazine, our service to you, or any housing related subject we would be delighted to
consider it for publication in a future issue of iNside. You can send your contributions to Alison Birch at Contour Homes,
Quay Plaza 2, First Floor - Lowry Mall, Salford Quays, Salford M50 3AH. Alternatively you can email them
to alison.birch@contourhousing.co.uk - don’t forget to include your name, address & telephone number.
Design expertly crafted Print and finish skillfully
by Gaskell & Holt Studio engaged by CPL Design & Print
Head Office: Quay Plaza 2, 1st Floor - Lowry Mall, Salford Quays, Salford M50 3AH.
Tel: 0345 602 1120. Fax: 0161 745 9393.
Email: mail@contourhomes.co.uk. www.contourhomes.co.uk
Contour Homes is an industrial and provident society (registered No. 23607R) with charitable status.
A member of Symphony Housing Group.