Changing Wales' Perceptions

Melin gets national recognition for its help getting residents connected

2010-08-31T12:32:00.001+01:00

Melin’s work providing over 150 people in North Torfaen with free computers, broadband and training has been recognised as outstanding by the Chartered Institute of Housing.

Melin has been shortlisted from more than 250 entries for the 2010 UK Housing Awards, now in its 14th year with its ‘Getting Connected’ project.

‘Getting connected’ has already started to pay dividends for residents. Mr Davies, 64, from British School Close, Garndiffaith joined Facebook and was able to contact his two grand daughters in Australia who he had never been in touch with before.

Mark Gardner, Chief Executive of Melin Homes said: “I am delighted to have our hard work recognised by our peers. The other big thrill for me however, is hearing stories such as Mr Davies who is getting real benefits from his computer. If we win it will be the icing on the cake.”

Melin is now one of six left in the running for the supporting social and economic inclusion category.

The awards are organised by Inside Housing magazine and the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), and have attracted a phenomenal response with submissions from the length and breadth of the UK.

The winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony at London’s Hilton Hotel on 10 November hosted by BBC Radio Scotland’s Fred MacAulay.

ENDS

For more information please contact Paula Skyrme, Communication Officer on 01495 745907 or email paula.skyrme@melinhomes.co.uk

MAJOR HOUSING PROJECT COMPLETED IN PENRHIWCEIBER

2010-08-18T10:47:00.001+01:00

Cynon Taf Community Housing Group, in partnership with the Welsh Assembly Government and BRE has completed a project involving seven existing properties in Tyrfelin Street Penrhiwceiber, demonstrating the measures that can be taken to transform terraced housing into homes that are fit for the future.

The project retains the existing frontage, but occupiers will benefit from the latest technology in house design and construction and the properties will be some of the most environmentally friendly houses ever produced in Wales.

In accordance with good and sustainable design practice this scheme aims to reduce the carbon footprint of the buildings by thermally upgrading the existing fabric and providing more efficient heating system which will be aided by the installation of solar panels as the primary source heating for the hot water systems.

In addition to the energy performance measures, the scheme also tackles some of the issues related to the everyday living with the existing properties, which have poor space standards and benefited from very little natural daylight. The properties have been remodelled with major aspect being converting two properties into one in. This has created better living spaces and in some cases better standards than those delivered through new build social housing schemes.

The scheme offers a new way of looking at terraced housing, a property layout that is more commonly associated with 19th than 21st century living. In so doing, the project demonstrates how retaining the historic character of the environment does not have to mean compromising on design vision, on providing modern, attractive and functional housing, or on good performance against sustainability criteria.

Primary objectives are to significantly enhance the energy performance of existing housing stock and create a new benchmark for sustainable refurbishment that can be repeated, rather than installing as many low/zero carbon technologies as possible.

The Welsh School of Architecture will be monitoring the energy consumption of the refurbished properties, once they are occupied. This information will be used to educate the tenants in the best use of the properties and help them maximise their savings in regards to their fuel bills.

The scheme, at a cost of nearly £800,000.00, has been funded from the Association’s own resources with match funding as a joint venture between the Heads of the Valleys Initiative.

Jane Davidson, Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing who was present at the unveiling of the scheme commented “I was delighted to see how these traditional valleys houses have been converted into cosy, green energy efficient homes that will mean people will have to spend less on heating and lighting.
“Schemes such as this provide us with significant economic opportunities to create local jobs as part of Wales’ economic recovery.
“This area was at the heart of the industrial revolution that made the modern world and still bears the scars of this period. It now has the opportunity to be at the centre of the green revolution of the 21st Century, leading Wales and showing the world what it can do to make a difference.
“There are lessons to be learned by other housing associations and developers as it shows how we can use existing housing stock to provide the kind of homes that people want for the future."
“Cynon Tâf Community Housing Group has invested significantly in the community in Penrhiwceiber in the past’ says Antonia Forte, the Group’s Chief Executive. ‘This project not only helps support our existing activities, but will act as a catalyst to other stakeholders, including the local authority, to work collaboratively, in order to make a real difference to the experience of people living areas of traditional terraced housing”

One of the tenants, Michelle Llewellyn who will be moving into one of the properties is excited about the prospect of living in such a start of the art property “I have lived in Tyrfelin Street for 13 years and I love living here. I am really looking forward to moving in and I am delighted with how the house has turned out”

Ends

Notes to Editor

The Group was formed as a result of a merger of Cynon Taf and Pontypridd and District Housing Associations and incorporates Care and Repair – RCT and hosts Glyncoch Community First Partnership

The Group has over 1800 houses, works solely in the County Borough, primarily in the Cynon Valley and Taff Ely areas.

The Groups offices are at Unit 4, Navigation Park, Abercynon

Press Enquiries:

Kevin Barry 01443 743200

Another Melin Groundforce gets underway in Cwmbran

2010-07-19T14:46:00.002+01:00

Residents of Coed Eva and Fairwater in Cwmbran can now benefit from a new Melin Groundforce team thanks to the hard work of their local Councillors.

A new Groundforce team was launched on Saturday at an event held at the Coed Eva and Hollybush Community Centre and many residents turned up to meet the team and join in all the fun activities organised by Councillor Fiona Cross.

The Coed Eva and Fairwater Groundforce follows on from the success of the Trevethin Groundforce and works in the same way. The scheme is funded by the Government £1 billion Future Jobs Fund and managed by Melin Homes. They will provide free gardening and landscaping services to anyone who lives in Coed Eva and Fairwater.

Mark Gardner, Chief Executive of Melin Homes said: “We were only too happy to help when Councillors Cross and Rees approached us after they heard about the great work we were doing in Trevethin. A large part of our work involves helping communities, which is exactly what the Groundforce teams do.”

Councillor Fiona Cross, who was the driving force behind getting the team set up in her ward explained: “We heard about the good work Trevethin Groundforce was doing and asked Melin if they could do the same for us in Coed Eva and Fairwater. I know of many local residents who will benefit from this scheme and the boys started taking bookings at the launch on Saturday. “

Councillor Jeff Rees is also delighted that the scheme has got off to a great start. He told us: “I am confident that once people get to hear about this great, free service, the Groundforce team will be fully booked in a very short time.”

If you live in Coed Eva or Fairwater and would like to book a visit by the Groundforce team call Mark on 01495 745927.

ENDS

Community Housing Cymru gives evidence to Sustainability Committees enquiry into Planning.

2010-07-15T15:16:00.003+01:00

Nicci Cole, Wales & West Housing Association and Shane Perkins, Mid-Wales Housing Association represent Community Housing Cymru.
To view the evidence

Cardiff Community on BBC online

2010-07-01T01:08:00.003+01:00

Hi all,
If you get any media coverage or mentions - please flag it up here.
CCHA had a good piece on BBC online today.

To see the article on click here

CREW appoints Deputy Chief Executive

2010-06-29T10:47:00.002+01:00

The Centre For Regeneration Excellence Wales has appointed a Deputy Chief Executive to support Professor Dave Adamson, the organisation’s Chief Executive in the development of its research, education and training programmes.

Andrew Dakin has 34 years experience in the public and private sectors and has undertaken a wide variety of regeneration projects in many towns and cities throughout Wales and the south west of England. Latterly Andrew has occupied the position of Director of Regeneration at the Urban Regeneration Company in Newport. In addition Andrew has been a member of staff at the Department of City and Regional Planning at Cardiff University since 2005 where he teaches urban regeneration. Andrew has also been a member of the Board of the Valleys based Cynon Taff Community Housing Association for the last 17 years.

Andrew said: “It’s been great to have been part of the successful regeneration of Newport over the last four years, but the opportunity to join Dave Adamson to help to set CREW up and develop its research and teaching programmes is one I couldn’t resist. I come from a Welsh family which has had a strong history in education, so to take on this role now after all I have done previously in my career is a natural and exciting step”.

Dave Adamson added: “Andrew’s extensive experience in leading the delivery of large scale physical regeneration projects plus his qualifications as a Chartered Surveyor (MRICS) and a Chartered Town Planner (MRTPI) together with his teaching experience will provide CREW with a vital resource in the delivery of the remit we have from Welsh Assembly Government.”

Professor Chris Webster, Head of Cardiff University School of City and Regional Planning said: “Andrew is one of those special people who operate at the top of their professional game but can also communicate well with students. He is a popular lecturer and I am delighted that Cardiff University now has an even closer link to CREW, with the opportunities that will afford for mutual learning, research and dissemination, student project work and engagement with the communities of Wales.”

Gareth Beer, Chief Executive of Newport Unlimited commented: “I’m personally very sorry to be losing Andrew from the URC as he has made a very important contribution to the operation of the company. He leaves us with our grateful thanks for all he has done for the City of Newport over the last four years.”

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors:

The Centre For Regeneration Excellence in Wales (CREW) has been established to promote integrated regeneration throughout Wales by sharing experience, good practice and regeneration skills across all the professions that contribute to the regeneration process.
CREW aims to connect people and places, and to develop techniques and practices that will assist all those in Wales who are involved in the regeneration process including the following activities:
• Training, Education and skills
• Rigorous Research
• Information and dissemination
• Exchange of experience and excellence

For further information visit CREW’s website: www.regenwales.org.uk

Media Enquiries to Edwina O’Hart, PR Officer, Community Housing Cymru, Edwina-ohart@chcymru.org.uk or 02920557414

NEW SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WALES GIVES THE THUMBS UP FOR

2010-06-29T10:39:00.003+01:00

THE Rt Hon Cheryl Gillan, MP, Secretary of State for Wales visited Wales & West Housing Association properties in Powys yesterday on a fact-finding mission about social housing provision in the area.

Meeting residents at the Brongarth and Cwrt Conway affordable housing developments in Brecon, Mrs Gillan said: "I am very impressed by the work done by Wales & West Housing Association for the social housing sector in Brecon.

"Not only do the residents have modern, practical housing but they are also some of the most eco-friendly and energy efficient new-builds in Wales. The attention to detail and high standards that I have seen today makes all the difference between providing housing and creating homes.

"I want to thank Mrs Isaac and Mrs Thomas for the warm welcomes they gave me when I visited them in their beautiful homes. It is easy to see why they are so happy and take such pride in where they live."

The Secretary of State started her visit at WWHA’s £1.3m ‘super-green’ social housing development in Brongarth, Brecon, where she joined residents in giving the ground-breaking development the thumbs up.

The properties at Brongarth – some of the very first in Wales to reach Level 4 of the Welsh Assembly Government’s Code for Sustainable Development – were built by contractor Pendragon (Design and Build) Ltd on behalf of Wales & West Housing Association (WWHA) in partnership with Powys County Council.

Completed in March this year the 0.28 acre development comprises nine properties, including six flats (4 x one-bed and 2 x two-bed) and three houses (all two-bed).

“These super-green properties incorporate innovative air-source heat pumps which use heat from the atmosphere to warm homes, as well as solar panels on the roof,” said Tony Wilson, Finance Director of Wales & West Housing Association.

“We anticipate that our properties at Brongarth will be at least 40% more energy efficient than standard new homes,” he added.

Currently Level 3 is WAG’s benchmark standard.

Sarah Isaac, 34, who has moved in to Brongarth with her four-year-old son Harry, said: “My new home is lovely – absolutely brilliant.”

Sarah, 34, gave the Secretary of State a guided tour of her new home yesterday.

“I really can’t put it into words how happy I am with it,” said Sarah. “It’s going to be a good home for me and Harry.”

All nine units have been let to local people for affordable rents through WWHA, which also has a further 800 high quality, affordable properties throughout Powys.

Designed by Cardiff-based architects CFW, they stand on the site of a former children’s home which was demolished last year.

“This development shows WWHA’s commitment to providing quality sustainable housing, supporting local supply chains and the construction industry in Wales, and sustainable development,” added Tony Wilson.

The Secretary of State then toured other Wales & West Housing Association schemes in the area before visiting residents at WWHA’s picturesque Cwrt Conway housing for the over 55s scheme by the side of the Brecon Canal.

The Secretary of State enjoyed a tour of two apartments at the very popular scheme and spent half and hour chatting in the sun with residents Mrs Tegwen Thomas and Kenneth and Edith Davies.

“I said to her ‘If I’d know you were coming I’d have baked a cake’,” joked Mr Davies.

“She was very nice. Very down to earth and easy to talk to. She said she loved where we lived and was really impressed with how we look after our properties, and how we grow our flowers. It was a real pleasure to meet her.”

The Welsh Secretary then went to meet army chiefs at Brecon barracks HQ where she paid tribute to the work of the armed forces in Wales.

Picture caption 1: L-R Sarah Isaac, 34, Brongarth resident, The Rt Hon Cheryl Gillan, MP, Secretary of State for Wales, with Tony Wilson, Finance Director, Wales & West Housing Association on the balcony of Sarah’s house in Wales & West Housing Association’s ‘super-green’ development in Brongarth, Brecon, Brecon.

Picture caption 2: L-r Councillor Graham Brown, Board Member for Housing and Public Protection, Powys County Council; John Harrison, WWHA; Wendy Fryzer, WWHA; Tony Wilson, Finance Director, WWHA; Ivor Gittens, Chair of the Board, WWHA; Jenny Williams, WWHA; and Cheryl Gillan, Secretary of State for Wales. The group are pictured outside Wales & West Housing Association’s Cwrt Conway housing for the over 55s in Brecon.

Picture caption 3: Tony Wilson, Finance Director, WWHA; Ivor Gittens, Chair of the Board WWHA; Jenny Williams, Housing Manager Powys, WWHA; Cheryl Gillan, Secretary of State for Wales. The group are pictured outside Wales & West Housing Association’s Cwrt Conway housing for the over 55s in Brecon.

For more information about affordable living with Wales & West Housing Association in Powys call freephone 0800 052 2526.

Ends

For all media enquiries, please contact Sarah Manners on 029 20414033, Blackberry 07917 352375, or sarah.manners@wwha.co.uk

Notes to the editor:

Wales & West Housing Association has 9,000 properties across Wales providing quality, affordable homes for more than 25,000 people.

Established in 1965, WWHA employs more than 320 staff, and works in 16 local authorities, making it one of the largest housing associations in Wales.

WWHA is registered as a charitable association under the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965. No. 21114R.

Prestigious Gold Award for Community Housing Cymru

2010-06-22T14:20:00.002+01:00

Community Housing Cymru has achieved the prestigious Gold Investors in People award, the most successful framework for business improvement through people in the UK.

Community Housing Cymru joins only two other organisations in Wales who are eligible to use and display the sought-after Gold Investors in People logo and plaque, and enjoy its benefits. CHC, who currently employ fourteen members of staff, formally committed to the award in August 2009 after 12 months of working towards Investors in People (IiP) with their advisor, Sue Rowlands. The award has ten indicators which cover areas such as Management Effectiveness, Recognition and Reward and Involvement and Empowerment.

The assessment revealed that staff enjoyed working at CHC and the atmosphere of openness in which they operate, had lots of learning opportunities and their terms and conditions focused genuinely on achieving work-life balance.

Nick Bennett, Chief executive of Community Housing Cymru said: “All staff and members have the right to feel proud of achieving gold Investors in People status. This is the perfect launching pad for us as we set about forming a group structure with Care and Repair Cymru and the Centre for Regeneration Excellence in Wales (CREW). We want to be a cluster of co-operation which supports innovative social enterprise in housing, care and regeneration and we can only continue to do that with great people who we continue to invest in.”

Phillipa Knowles, HR and communications manager at CHC added: “We applied for Investors not in the pursuit of an award, but to benchmark our people policies and strategies to ensure that we were developing, supporting and managing our staff in the best way possible. It is an honour to be one of only three organisations in Wales to achieve the Gold standard and we are really proud to be recognised as an Investor in People.

As an organisation that invests heavily in the learning and development of our staff, the award made us focus our attention on evaluating the impact of these activities on our business bottom line. By being able to not only identify skills and knowledge improvements as a result of learning and development activities, we were also able to identify around £30k worth of savings gained as a result of these new skills being developed by staff, which will have a huge impact in terms of delivering more to our members.

My personal thanks must go to everyone at CHC who have all had a part to play in our success, to our assessor Mavis Elliott-Smith who made the assessment an enjoyable experience for all those involved, to Nick Bennett and the Management Team for their support and commitment and finally to Sue Rowlands, our IiP consultant, without whose help, support and commitment would have made this process a lot harder and longer.”

-ENDS-

For further information please contact Edwina O’Hart on 02920557414 or Edwina-ohart@chcymru.org.uk

Photo caption: Phillipa Knowles (holding the gold certificate, along with members of CHC staff.

Melin residents will soon be reaping the rewards

2010-06-17T14:35:00.001+01:00

Melin residents from North Torfaen will soon be making huge savings of over £500 a year thanks to a partnership with Welsh Assembly Government’s HoV programme that provides residents with home access to PCs and broadband.

Melin’s scheme, which is the first of its kind in Wales, aims to provide and install up to 500 home computers to help develop digital services in the area.

Historically, digital technology has had a low take up amongst social housing tenants, leaving them unable to reap the benefits such as job seeking, shopping online and comparison websites for utilities and insurance which can help them make savings of £560 a year.

This is part of a wider scheme of work in North Torfaen to develop digital technology which includes; installing fibre optic broadband, a digital learning centre at Melin owned, Church View, Blaenavon and technology rich learning in local schools, delivered by our partners, Torfaen County Borough Council.

Over the next few months, hundreds of computers will be delivered and set up for Melin residents. The computers will have desktop access to Melin, council and other important online services.

Access to broadband and IT training will also be provided to help people make the most of digital technology. The technology training centre at Church View will also help those people looking to develop formal qualifications in readiness for emerging job opportunities.

Kellie Beirne, Melin’s Director of Communities and Enterprise explained: “Access to digital services will provide many positive benefits for our residents as well as having a knock-on effect for us. Research shows that online transactions such as paying rent and applying for a home are more cost effective. We also want residents to be able to achieve value for money in the goods and services they will be able to buy on-line. Today, being digitally included means being financially included”.

Denise Timothy of Blaenavon was one of our first residents to receive her free computer. She said: “I am thrilled to bits. Having access to a computer and broadband will help me in so many ways. I have been out of work for a while so now I can check the internet every day for the latest jobs. I am also going to try online shopping to see if I can make savings,”

CHC PR Network

2010-06-15T17:00:00.002+01:00

Thanks to everyone who attended CHC's PR Network yesterday at United Welsh Housing Association.
Minutes have been distributed to the PR group and presentations from the day can be found below.

Don't forget
How to get your news story noticed breakfast seminar - Monday 21st June - places still available and digital storytelling workshops from September - December.
For further details or for a booking form - contact Edwina O'Hart on 02929557414.

Matt Appleby - Chair of CIPR Cymru: 'Demonstrating our worth'

How do we as PR and communications professionals demonstrate our worth?

View more presentations from eohart.

Edwina O’Hart and Bethan Samuel - Community Housing Cymru's PR Update

Community Housing Cymru PR update

View more presentations from eohart.

Kelly Beirne, Melin Homes - Influencing, negotiating and persuading.

Influencing negotiating and persuading

View more presentations from eohart.

John Wilkinson - MD of Wilkinson PR and Treasurer of CIPR Cymru. Personal development.

Personal Development with the CIPR

View more presentations from eohart.

2010-06-03T11:50:00.004+01:00

Press Release

3 June 2010

Melin residents will soon be reaping the rewards

Melin residents from North Torfaen will soon be making huge savings of over £500 a year thanks to a partnership with Welsh Assembly Government’s HoV programme that provides residents with home access to PCs and broadband.

Melin’s scheme, which is the first of its kind in Wales, aims to provide and install up to 500 home computers to help develop digital services in the area.

Historically, digital technology has had a low take up amongst social housing tenants, leaving them unable to reap the benefits such as job seeking, shopping online and comparison websites for utilities and insurance which can help them make savings of £560 a year.

This is part of a wider scheme of work in North Torfaen to develop digital technology which includes; installing fibre optic broadband, a digital learning centre at Melin owned, Church View, Blaenavon and technology rich learning in local schools, delivered by our partners, Torfaen County Borough Council.

Over the next few months, hundreds of computers will be delivered and set up for Melin residents. The computers will have desktop access to Melin, council and other important online services.

Access to broadband and IT training will also be provided to help people make the most of digital technology. The technology training centre at Church View will also help those people looking to develop formal qualifications in readiness for emerging job opportunities.

Kellie Beirne, Melin’s Director of Communities and Enterprise explained: “Access to digital services will provide many positive benefits for our residents as well as having a knock-on effect for us. Research shows that online transactions such as paying rent and applying for a home are more cost effective. We also want residents to be able to achieve value for money in the goods and services they will be able to buy on-line. Today, being digitally included means being financially included”.

Denise Timothy of Blaenavon was one of our first residents to receive her free computer. She said: “I am thrilled to bits. Having access to a computer and broadband will help me in so many ways. I have been out of work for a while so now I can check the internet every day for the latest jobs. I am also going to try online shopping to see if I can make savings,”

ENDS

For more information please contact Paula Skyrme, Communication Officer, on 01495 745907 or email paula.skyrme@melinhomes.co.uk

Notes to editors:
Melin Homes is a not-for-profit landlord providing quality homes and services across Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Newport, Powys and Torfaen.

We currently own and manage over 3,000 homes For further information please visit www.melinhomes.co.uk

Green Light for Group Structure

2010-06-01T16:50:00.001+01:00

Community Housing Cymru (CHC) and Care & Repair Cymru (CRC) have been given the final green light to form a group structure.

CHC’s National Council had already approved plans to form the structure and at a Special General Meeting held by CRC, shareholders voted on changes to their rules to allow CHC to become their parent. The vote required a 75% return in favour and the meeting saw 98% of its shareholders vote in favour of the change.

Collaborative activities have been set out by both organizations and work is now under way to finalise the legal, governance and financial work that is required in the setting up of a group structure and it is hoped to have all this in place by July 1st. The Chief Executive for the Group will be Nick Bennett, and he will be supported by Chris Jones, Managing Director of Care and Repair Cymru, Phillipa Knowles, Director of Central Services and Sioned Hughes, Director of Policy and Social Enterprise. Both organizations will retain their separate identities, roles and responsibilities.

Phillipa Knowles said: “This is a really exciting time for both organisations. There is a huge potential for the group to achieve over the coming years in terms of joint lobbying and activities and this will be good news for the people of Wales who are in need of housing – whatever their age or circumstance. The Group’s staff can’t wait to put in place the plans that have been made over these last few intensive months and to start to see the benefits of collaborative working.”

Chris Jones added: “ This collaboration makes tremendous sense. Staff of both organizations are looking forward to working in partnership and strengthening each other’s cause. Older people living in housing currently unsuitable for their needs can be assured that the partnership will help deliver their message, and help strengthen housing services for all older people across Wales”

-ENDS-

For further information contact Edwina O’Hart, PR Office Community Housing Cymru, 02920 557414 or Vera Brinkworth, Head of External Affairs, Care & Repair Cymru, 029 20576286

Notes to Editors:

Community Housing Cymru is the membership body for housing associations and community mutuals, which are all not-for-profit and provide around 112,000 homes and housing services throughout Wales.
As a registered charity our objectives are to:
• promote the voluntary housing sector in Wales
• promote the relief of financial hardship through the sector's provision of low cost social housing
• provide services, education, training, information, advice and support to providers of such housing in Wales
• encourage and facilitate the provision, construction, improvement and management of low cost social housing by housing associations in Wales.

Care & Repair Cymru is the national body for Care and Repair in Wales, the Older Persons Housing Champion.

The 22 Care and Repair Agencies across Wales help older people to remain living in their own homes with increased independence and dignity. This is achieved by carrying out and facilitating adaptations, repairs and improvements for older people in their own homes.

Housing Associations Meet the Challenge

2010-05-28T09:44:00.001+01:00

Housing Associations Meet the Challenge

To download the report click here

Despite the deepest recession in recent memory, the combined accounts of Welsh housing associations show that the sector has established a sound basis to continue investing in homes and communities into the future - by doing so making a significant impact on the social, economic and physical characteristics of Wales.

The accounts co-produced by Community Housing Cymru and the Welsh Assembly Government indicate that:

· The sector’s homes have increased to just over 122,000.

· Turnover for both traditional and LSVT (Large scale voluntary transfer) associations has increased and their balance sheets have continued to grow – total turnover was £434m in 2009.

· Debt increased to £1.1billion.

In 2009, associations were not only increasingly diverse in terms of the number of homes they owned and managed, but also in their origin and the range of activities carried out. This report is testimony to real delivery on the ground by the social housing sector during this difficult economic period.

Peter Cahill, Chair of Community Housing Cymru said: "This is the third report on the financial performance of the social housing sector in Wales. Housing associations are social enterprises which make a significant impact in Wales and the new freedoms and flexibility offered by the Essex reforms are likely to see new areas of investment by the sector as activity diversifies."

In the foreword, Jocelyn Davies AM, Deputy Minister for Housing and Regeneration said, "the evolving partnership work between the Welsh Assembly Government and the social housing sector in Wales is delivering tangible results. These achievements would not have been possible without the sector’s robust financial position as evidenced in this report."

Notes to Editors:

This report includes information based on returns compiled from the audited financial statements of 32 associations who own the majority of homes in the sector and who carry out its development activity.

Large scale voluntary transfer(LSVTs) organisations are not for profit organisations set up as a result of the local authority transferring their housing stock to this new organisation.

The report includes information from eight LSVTs. The significant driver for the creation of these LSVTs is the need to meet the Welsh Assembly Government’s Welsh Housing Quality Standards (WHQS) by 2012. Over 40% of homes in the Welsh housing association sector are now owned by LSVTs.

2010-05-19T13:41:00.001+01:00

Melin Homes provides 50 new affordable homes for local people

Work is well underway on a £6.8 Million development of 50 much-needed affordable homes in Abergavenny, thanks to a successful partnership between Melin Homes, Monmouthshire Council and national housing developer Barratt Homes.

Barratt are building the homes for Melin and, once complete, the scheme on Merthyr Road in the town will provide 16 two-bedroom houses, 18 three-bedroom houses, 4 four-bedroom houses and 12 one-bedroom apartments.

Up to half of the homes will be available for sale under Melin’s low-cost home ownership scheme and the remainder will be available on a neutral tenure basis which allows applicants the opportunity to rent or buy.

The homes are being built to Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes which sets the overall sustainability and energy efficiency of new build homes.

They will be highly insulated and will contain a range of energy saving features including low energy lighting, eco-flushing toilets and external water butts. Some will also have solar and photo voltaic panels. All of these features will help to reduce running costs for residents.

Mark Gardner, Chief Executive of Melin said: “Providing high quality, affordable homes for people who need them is what Melin is all about and we are delighted that our new homes in Abergavenny are nearing completion. In addition to providing rental opportunities, it’s great to know that, even during these difficult economic times, our low-cost home ownership scheme will help people to buy their own homes”.

Nick Ramsay, AM for Monmouth said: "I am delighted that Melin Homes and Monmouthshire Council are able to deliver affordable homes where local people struggle to meet market prices."

This superb scheme of 50 affordable homes in Abergavenny is yet another example of Melin and Monmouthshire County Council working together to find a sustainable solution to our housing problems. Well done Monmouthshire and Melin Homes!"

Councillor Brian Hood, Monmouthshire Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “This is a fine example of partnership working between the public and private sector which will result in homes for people who need them. It has also helped to support the building industry during recent hard times.

Since April 2009 Melin has invested £19 million in building affordable homes and have completed 129 to date. 79 of these were for rent and we also created 40 opportunities for people to buy their own home thanks to our low-cost home ownership schemes. We also helped 10 families with Mortgage Rescue

Melin’s properties at Whitecastle will be ready for occupation from Summer this year.

For more information on buying a home please call Melin’s Home Ownership team on 01495 745928 or email homes@melinhomes.co.uk. For rental enquiries please call 08453 101102.

Photo Caption:
Work is well underway to deliver 50 new affordable homes for Abergavenny.

ENDS

For more information please contact Helen Ball, Head of Communications on 01495 745920 or email Helen.ball@melinhomes.co.uk

Notes to editors:
· Melin Homes is a not-for-profit landlord providing quality homes and services across Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Newport, Powys and Torfaen.
· We currently own and manage over 3,000 homes including 829 in Monmouthshire
For further information please visit www.melinhomes.co.uk

IT'S OFFICIAL – CADARN HAS THE IT TEAM OF THE YEAR

2010-05-18T17:32:00.000+01:00

The Cadarn Housing Group’s IT team had good cause for celebration last Friday (14 May 2010) when they were awarded the title of IT Team of the Year at the 2010 Housing Heroes Awards ceremony in London.

The 2010 Housing Heroes Awards, run by the Chartered Institute of Housing and Inside Housing, attracted over 300 entries and the winners were announced by adventurer and TV presenter Ben Fogle.

The team’s recognition is the result of the development of Cadarn’s SPriNT software as the leading supported housing monitoring software in Wales. Users range from small support providers to national providers and local authorities. SPriNT is marketed outside Wales with projects delivered in Scotland, England and Ireland. SPriNT is now supplied to over 60 organisations and has 3500 users.

Key achievements for the team and SPriNT over the past year have included:

ͦ 24 sales of SPriNT software and 74 sales of additional modules

ͦ delivery of SPriNT to 21 Women’s Aid agencies throughout Wales

ͦ the development of a Community Care Module in partnership with four care and support agencies from the learning disability sector in Wales

ͦ the development of a digital pen module to enable efficient data entry in a way that is preferred by users

ͦ Monmouthshire County Council achieved Excellence Wales status and were highly commended in the Local Collaboration category for its work with local support agencies using SPriNT to improve information exchange, monitoring and evaluation of support packages

Richard Troote, Cadarn’s Head of Information Services said, “this award is recognition of the vision of the Cadarn Board in supporting this venture from the start and the hard work and commitment of colleagues and partners in delivering a successful product that assists in the delivery of support services to vulnerable people.”

For more information on SPriNT and the services offered to the sector by Cadarn IS please contact Richard Troote, Head of Information Services on 02920 629351 or richard.troote@cadarn.co.uk

Press release from Melin Homes

2010-05-06T11:41:00.001+01:00

Press Release

6 May 2010

Vikki picks up top award and inspires other young people

One of Melin Homes’ Future Job Fund trainees recently picked up an award for trainee of the year at an annual Melin staff conference.

Vikki Bradshaw, aged 20 from Cwmbran was presented with the award in front of all of Melin’s 160 staff at the conference held in Newport recently.

The award recognised Vikki’s hard work, commitment and enthusiasm during her time as a Future Jobs Fund trainee at Melin Homes and has inspired Melin’s 19 other Future Job Fund trainees to try to follow in her footsteps.

Melin Homes is one of Torfaen’s biggest employers of young people under the Future Jobs Fund scheme which is a £1 billion Department of Work and Pensions UK wide initiative that provides jobs and training for young people.

Since October, Vikki has gained qualifications, skills and experience in a variety of roles. She explained: “I now have an NVQ qualification in Customer Service and experience of a wide range of office work. I will be very sad when my six month placement finishes, but I will always have my qualification and experience, whatever I do next.

I would like to thank Melin Homes for giving me this opportunity which I know will help me enormously in my job hunting.”

Melin’s Chief Executive, Mark Gardner is delighted with Vikki’s huge improvement. He said: “Vikki is a wonderful example of how a young person can develop over a short period of time. We have 12 trainees at Melin and I am impressed with every one of them. Their enthusiasm and positive attitude is a credit to them. I wish Vikki every success in the future. “

Bryn Williams, Future Jobs Fund Manager Torfaen said: “All of us at the Future Job Fund Team are delighted that Vikki’s achievements have been recognised with this award. She has made tremendous progress over the last six months and it is great to see her being rewarded for all her hard work.”

Ends

Notes to editors:
Melin Homes is a not for profit landlord providing quality homes and services across Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Newport, Powys and Torfaen. For further information please visit www.melinhomes.co.uk

Tanzania Community Challenge - 26 January – 6 February 2011

2010-04-28T11:39:00.001+01:00

The Tanzania Community Challenge is a unique opportunity to experience firsthand Homeless International’s overseas work, combined with an unforgettable trek through Tanzania’s great safari land.

On this 12-day trip you will work on a community building project that is being supported by Homeless International through our Tanzanian partner. During the second half of the trip you will trek through the arid, game-rich bush country of Tarangire National Park, onto the shores of Lake Manyara - sanctuary to thousands of flamingos.

For more information, see the attached flyer or give Homeless International a call on 024 7663 2802 or email hannah@homeless-international.org

For further information, visit CHC's website http://www.chcymru.org.uk/news/10752.html

2010-04-16T11:33:00.000+01:00

Melin Homes Press Release

16 April 2010

Melin residents vote solar panels a hit

Melin residents are giving the thumbs up to a new energy saving scheme, provided by Melin Homes, thanks to a £1.8 million funding boost to provide energy efficiency measures to over 300 properties, including solar thermal panels and air to water heating systems.

The work has been jointly funded by £1,000,000 by the Welsh Assembly Government’s Heads of the Valleys Improvement Programme, and £800,000 from Central Governments Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT).

Solar panels have recently been installed on Melin homes in North Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent. This is the first phase of over 500 Melin properties that will receive the new hot water heating systems. Phase one of the work was completed in March 2010 and further work is planned through to 2012/13.

The new heating systems can provide up to 90% of a homes hot water in the summer and even during the winter can provide over 30%. This is because the solar panels do not rely on direct sunlight to work and can still heat water on an overcast day.

Mrs Hughes of Osborne Road, Pontypool had her new hot water system and solar panel fitted recently. She explained “I was delighted when Melin said they were going to fit a new energy efficient hot water system. I try to be as energy efficient as possible and this will go a long way towards that as well as saving me money on gas bills. The work only took a day and a half and the fitters were very professional.”

Melin Homes Chief Executive, Mark Gardner explained: “We are committed to improving the energy efficiency of our homes in order to meet our carbon reduction targets. These new systems will also help to reduce fuel poverty for our residents. This funding has allowed us to go a long way to honouring our commitments to both our residents and the environment.”

Melin Homes works with the Energy Saving Trust to reduce carbon emissions and is the first housing association in the UK to have such a partnership. This work was recently recognised by the Chartered Institute of Housing who gave Melin an award for Increasing Environmental Sustainability.

Ends

Notes to Editors

Melin Homes
Melin Homes is a not for profit landlord providing quality homes and services across Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Newport, Powys and Torfaen. For further information please visit www.melinhomes.co.uk

The Heads of the Valleys Programme:
The Heads of the Valleys initiative was launched by the Welsh Assembly Government in September 2004. The 15 year regeneration strategy has been developed in full partnership with five local authorities, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen, and other local stakeholders. The initiative is tackling the root causes of economic inactivity and other key issues in the area, within the context of the Wales Spatial Plan.
The £140million programme aims to create:
 An attractive and well-used natural, historic and built environment
 A vibrant economic landscape offering new opportunities
 A well educated, skilled and healthier population
 An appealing and coherent tourism and leisure experience
 Public confidence in a shared bright future
For more information contact Paula Skyrme, Communications Officer on 01495 745907 or email paula.skyrme@melinhomes.co.uk

Antonia Forte appointed Chief Executive of Cynon Taf Community Housing Group.

2010-04-09T11:38:00.001+01:00

Cynon Tâf Community Housing Group has announced the appointment of Antonia Forte to the position of Chief Executive from April 1st.

Ms Forte succeeds David Lewis, who has retired after over 30 years service with the organisation.

The Group is the result of a merger of Cynon Tâf and Pontypridd and District Housing Associations in 2007, and incorporates the RCT Care and Repair Agency.

Dr Craig Gurney Chair of the Board commented “I am very pleased that Antonia has accepted the position. She has been the Group`s Deputy Chief Executive for the last three years, so this appointment gives us continuity and puts us in the best position to face the challenges ahead”

The new Chief Executive brings a wealth of experience and is excited by the thought of heading up the group “Prior to merger I had been the Chief Executive of Pontypridd and District Housing Association for sixteen years, so I am aware of the issues that face our communities. My aim is for the Group to work in partnership with the Local Authority and Cwm Taf Health Board so we can continue to make a significant contribution in dealing with the housing and community issues in Rhondda Cynon Taf”.

The Group employs over 70 staff and is based at Navigation Park in Abercynon.

The coming year sees the start of the construction of thirty four houses on the site of the former Towers and Beacons flats in Hirwaun as well as several other projects in the pipeline.

Ms Forte added “My aim is to ensure that the Group takes full advantage of any investment opportunities that arise, the projects this year will see £6 m coming into the Borough and demonstrating Cynon Tâf Community Housing Group’s commitment to investing in our communities”

Notes to Editor

The Group has over 1800 houses, works solely in the County Borough, primarily in the Cynon Valley and Taff Ely areas.

Care and Repair is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Group, which is based in Ferndale

We host the Glyncoch Communities First Project

Press Enquiries to:
Kevin Barry 01443 743232

UK Election date announced - Time to Make Housing a Priority

2010-04-07T12:47:00.004+01:00

The countdown to the UK general election has begun, the date has been set for May the 6th and politicians are pushing forward their campaigns to fight for every vote.

It is vital that housing is at the top of the political agenda and that the next government invest more in social housing in order to achieve many public policy objectives, including better educational achievements, improvement of lives by promoting better health outcomes, providing more training and job opportunities, providing sustainable development and helping to overcome social exclusion and poverty.

Community Housing Cymru along with the National Housing Federation in England, The Scottish Housing Federation and the Northern Ireland Housing Federation, have drawn up a UK Housing Manifesto and have been lobbying prospective parliamentary candidates on three key housing issues

Although much of housing is devolved, the four UK housing federations believe that these three areas affect every corner of the UK and that they must be key issues in the forth coming general election.

The issues are:
•New supply to avoid a further housing crisis
•Climate change
•Financial inclusion

To illustrate how housing associations could benefit from these issues being addressed, Community Housing Cymru have met with one of their members based in South Wales, who are in the process of building over 100 new affordable homes on land acquired from Newport council. The homes will be built to sustainable code level 5 and as a result tenants can expect to pay as little as £5 a week on their energy bills.

Darrell Bolton, corporate director at Fairlake explains more in this short video.

Housing is devolved to Wales – why is it important to lobby prospective parliamentary candidates?

Housing lies within the current devolved fields as set out in the Government of Wales Act 2006.

Although much of housing policy is devolved, some is not. The National assembly of Wales does not have full law-making powers, as primary legislation on Welsh affairs continues to be made in the UK Parliament at Westminster. The general election therefore presents a key opportunity to put clear messages to politicians about what the sector is doing, and what it could do in the future.

Housing has never been more important, and so it is vital to push our political engagement to a higher level.

A copy of our UK Housing Manifesto can be found on our website along with a list of prospective parliamentary candidates. ww.chcymru.org.uk/policy/ukgeneralelection.html

Internal Customers - Is anyone listening? Elin Price's Presentation to Community Housing Cymru's PR Network:

2010-03-19T12:38:00.006Z

What are RCT homes doing to engage staff?
Elin Price informs CHC's PR network.

Internal Customers - Is Anyone Listening?

View more presentations from eohart.

An introducion to Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)

2010-03-19T12:35:00.002Z

Mark Hodder's presentation to Community Housing Cymru's PR Network

Intorduction to Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)

View more presentations from eohart.

PR Network

2010-03-18T14:03:00.003Z

Thanks to all who attended the PR network on Tuesday - a packed day with lots of useful hints and advice from speakers and participants.

I'd be interested to hear what you thought of the day, in particular if you'd be interested in delving a little deeper into NLP? If you've any suggestions for topics for the June meeting - please also let me know.

Minutes and presentations to follow....

Edwina

PR Network Agenda

2010-03-18T13:59:00.002Z

Please see the agenda for the PR Network below. The meeting will be held at Bron Afon Community Housing on 17th March.

Delivering Excellent Customer Service

09:30: Coffee and networking

10:00 Welcome, apologies and housekeeping: Sarah Manners, Wales and West HA

10:10 Minutes and action points from last meeting

10:25 Host Talk: Duncan Forbes, Chief Executive, Bron Afon Community Housing.

10:45 How to win awards for customer service: John Keegan, Chief Executive of Monmouthshire Housing.

11:10 Problem solving session. (Group work)

Please have a think about the following questions from your organisation’s perspective.

• What role do we have in delivering customer service excellence?
• What are the conflicts of customer service excellence and managing expectations, or are they the same thing?

Feedback to group.

12:30 * * * BUFFET LUNCH * * *

1:15 Straight from the customer’s mouth - What do our tenants consider as customer service excellence?

Three tenants give an insight.

2:15 Internal customers – Is anyone listening? Elin Price, RCT Homes.

Really engaging with employees in a diverse workplace across various work locations can be challenging at the best of times. What do we need to do to get staff on board with the vision and values of the organisation? How do we communicate more sensitive / negative topics such as poor performance etc?
This section will look at examples of internal communications in the housing organisation workplace, identify methods that suit different teams of staff, and use RCT Homes’ “Job Well Done” case study to debate whether creativity in internal communications can be a risk worth taking.

Ahead of this session please think about the challenges/solutions within your organisations.

3:00 Achieving excellence when communicating with stakeholders.
Duncan Higgitt, Press Officer for Bethan Jenkins, AM.
Duncan will speak to the group on how best to get messages across to assembly members. Do they prefer traditional methods or are they using social media such as twitter? What’s the protocol for inviting AMs to events and openings and would AMs know who to contact within your association if one of their constituents made a complaint?

3:30 Tea/coffee break

3:45 Mark Hodder – Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP)
Now you’ve heard how to achieve excellence with a wide range of customers - here’s something a bit different! This introductory session will help you increase your connection with any audience and no prior knowledge is required.

4:45 AOB and Questions

Moneyline Cymru shortlisted for a Housing Heroes award

2010-03-08T13:00:00.002Z

Congratulation to the Moneyline Cymru steering group who have deservingly been shortlisted for a Housing Heroes award. They will represent the sector under the category of ground breaking service team of the year at a prestigious event hosted by TV personality Ben Fogle on the 14th of May in London. Moneyline Cymru have opened five pilot outlets across Wales and offer affordable loans and financial advice to tenants. They've issued over 500 loans to date and in total have saved customers over £350,000 in debt interest.

Congratulations must also go to the other finalists from Wales:

HR Team of the Year: Monmouthshire Housing

IT Team of the Year: The Cadarn Housing Group

Frontline Housing Team of the Year: RCT Homes – Community Safety Team

Tenant Empowerment Team of the Year: Newydd Housing Association – Tenant Powered Performance Team

Career Development Star of the Year: Kate Bradbrook – Monmouthshire Housing

Inspirational Board or Cabinet Member of the Year: Stella Wheeler – RCT Homes

Good luck one and all.

A real leader from Penarth is making a difference in Wales

2010-03-04T10:25:00.001Z

Ansley Workman from Penarth was named as one of Wales’ top leaders at a prestigious ceremony at Cardiff’s Hilton Hotel.

Ansley, chief executive of Penarth-based First Choice Housing Association, was recognised for her outstanding leadership in the Voluntary Not for Profit category for the Leading Wales Awards 2010.

The Leading Wales Awards recognise great leadership at all levels across the public, private and voluntary sectors in Wales, celebrating individuals whose excellent leadership skills have made a strong impact and resulted in positive change within their organisations. This year the awards have sought people, whose leadership has made a real difference in Wales.

Following the awards ceremony, Ansley said: “To be just nominated for this kind of award by your staff let alone win is a great honour. The team play an integral part in making First Choice successful at providing people with learning disabilities an option for living more independently. I think a happy workforce is the secret to a thriving organisation.”

Ansley has been recognised for her ability to transform and motivate the whole staff team at First Choice as well as her continuous commitment to improving access to independent living for people with learning disabilities. Ansley leads by example and is an inspirational role model to her team having worked her way up the ranks in the organisation to become chief executive.

Ceri Knight, policy, performance and communications officer said “Ansley’s leadership skills have transformed First Choice into a forward facing, proactive organisation with a highly motivated and committed staff team. She has worked tirelessly to improve access to independent living for people with learning disabilities and has gained support and respect within the sector across all levels. Her recent appointment as the south Wales vice chairperson of Learning Disability Wales is a testament to her commitment and leadership talent.”

Barbara Chidgey, spokesperson for the Leading Wales Awards, said: “Ansley is a tremendous example of the impact of great leadership skills on an organisation”

“We are delighted to be able to celebrate the wealth of talent that exists in Wales and the sixth year for the awards has seen them develop further. The calibre of entries never fails to impress the judges, who again had an extremely tough task in selecting the winners.

“Our aim is to champion good leadership and influence leadership skills development by identifying, recognising and celebrating individuals, who through their leadership contribute to the prosperity of Wales. This year’s nominees, finalists and award winners are tremendous individual examples of how leadership makes a real difference to our communities, businesses and to our lives.”

For more information, visit www.leadingwalesawards.com

Barbara Chidgey, Chair and spokesperson of the Awards, can be contacted on 07989 385114 or via barbarachidgey@learningpathways.info .

Ends
Notes to editors

• The Leading Wales Awards seek to identify people whose leadership is making a real difference

• Whether they are a volunteer, core worker, manager or executive, the awards seek to recognise leaders, at any level, whose leadership is making a difference in Wales and resulting in positive outcomes for their project, business or community.

• The Leading Wales Awards is made up of a consortium of private and public sector organisations:

o Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
o Cardiff Business School
o CBI Wales
o Chartered Management Institute
o Common Purpose
o Harding Evans Solicitors
o Hilton
o Learning Pathways Cymru
o Wales Council for Voluntary Action

• Real Radio Wales is broadcast partner for 2010

United Welsh Staff Recognition Scheme.

2010-03-03T15:31:00.002Z

United Welsh Housing Association have a fantastic staff recognition scheme in place. Its aim is to recognise and reward people who make a special effort in demonstrating the core values of the Association and reinforce their positive culture.
To read about nominations visit their Community Investment Blog here.

2010-02-25T12:06:00.001Z

Press Release
25 February 2010

LOUISE FEELS RIGHT AT HOME WITH NEW JOB

“It’s a lot easier to find a job when you’re in one.” That’s the experience of 24-year-old Louise Akehurst, who has landed a full-time job with housing association, Melin Homes, thanks to the Future Jobs Fund – part of the Government’s Young Person’s Guarantee.

Louise, from Cwmbran, was given a job at Melin Homes as part of the initiative in November, having been out of work for more than a year. And she impressed bosses so much during the first three months that she’s now been taken on as a full-time member of staff.

“The whole process of moving onto the Future Jobs Fund was very quick,” says Louise. “Within a week of my Jobcentre adviser telling me about it, I was working as a housing assistant at Melin, helping officers with rents, issues, paperwork and even visiting residents.”

“I was really nervous about how I’d cope being back in work after 12 months, but I’m loving it. It’s different to what I’ve done in the past, but I enjoy it, and I’m part of a large office, which has really helped build my confidence back up.

“Being made redundant from my previous job after five years was difficult. It was hard going from having full-time wages to living off benefits, and it was boring; having nothing to do.”

“If people can get a job through the Future Jobs Fund, they should go for it. They’ll be working, and have the chance to get training at the same time - I’m doing some customer service training, which leads to a recognised qualification. Plus, of course, you get triple the money of what you get on JSA.”

The £1-billion Future Jobs Fund provides funding for 170,000 jobs across the UK, the majority of which are targeted at tackling youth unemployment. The jobs run for six months, with individuals being paid at least the minimum wage.

DWP Minister for Employment & Welfare Reform, Jim Knight, said:

"Last month we made a guarantee to young people out of work for six months that we will provide them with the offer of a job, training or work experience. More than 4,600 jobs are being created in Wales through the Future Jobs Fund, and Louise is an excellent example of how the work we are doing now, to keep young people close to the labour market, is paying off.

“It’s great to see Louise has benefited from all the training and support she’s been given through the Future Jobs Fund, and I wish her all the best in her full-time role with Melin Homes.”

Kellie Beirne, Melin’s Director of Communities and Enterprise Team is delighted with the enthusiasm shown by all our placements. She said: "Melin Homes is now a major employer of young people on the Future Jobs Fund scheme in Torfaen with 12 placements. We have given a commitment to helping local young people and it is paying off in a positive way."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

The Future Jobs Fund will provide funding for 170,000 jobs across the UK – 120,000 for young people and 50,000 for unemployment hotspots.
Around £1 billion has been allocated to the Future Jobs Fund to create new jobs across the UK.
Bids to the Future Jobs Fund can be submitted at any time.

Bids are assessed against key criteria:

That the jobs will be real jobs – paying at least national minimum wage, for at least 25 hours a week, and lasting six months;
That the jobs will be additional - in other words that they would not have happened without the Future Jobs Fund;
That they are suitable for long-term unemployed young people;
The work undertaken must be of benefit to the local community; and
A significant proportion of the jobs must be deliverable quickly.

Bids will also be assessed for cost, quality and their support for key sectors – including green jobs.

A full list of the successful bids can be found on the DWP website.

Organisations can visit www.dwp.gov.uk/campaigns/futurejobsfund to express interest in bidding for jobs.

Melin Homes is a not for profit landlord providing quality homes and services across Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Newport, Powys and Torfaen. For further information please visit http://www.melinhomes.co.uk/

For more information or if you would like a further interview with Louise please contact:
Paula Skyrme – Communications Officer Melin Homes, Ty'r Efail, Lower Mill Field, Pontypool, Torfaen, NP4 0XJ T 01495 745907
E paula.skyrme@melinhomes.co.uk

Paula Skyrme – Communications Officer Melin Homes, Ty'r Efail, Lower Mill Field, Pontypool, Torfaen, NP4 0XJ T 01495 745907
E paula.skyrme@melinhomes.co.uk

Incentive scheme for homeless youths helps calm anti-social behaviour

2010-02-25T11:41:00.000Z

Anti-social behaviour in one area of Torfean has reduced significantly thanks to an innovative incentive scheme introduced by a hostel for homeless young people in the area.

Hales House in Pontypool provides housing and support to young homeless people in the area and, following complaints from local residents about anti-social behaviour in the area, staff took action.

Staff at the hostel, which is run by Solas, part of the Seren Group, created an incentive system, the H2H Project, to engage young people and provide positive activities to raise motivation and self esteem. Due to the success of the project, there have been no further complaints of anti-social behaviour made in recent months.

The project includes specially designed workshops and activities in three stages, with bronze, silver and gold awards. Participants are rewarded with household goods and activities, such as trips to the beach, as they progress through the programme.
Practical activities such as designing and assigning costs to virtual homes are used to help participants prepare to move into their own properties. Tangible rewards include toasters, kettles and pamper nights which are used as incentives. Workshops cover topics relating to everything from sexual health and safer relationships to tenancy issues and money matters and are designed to teach key skills needed in order to break cycles of homelessness.

Mark Lloyd, 18, is the first resident to complete the project and will be moving into his own accommodation in the coming weeks. Mark is now acting as an ambassador for the project and is also volunteering with other organisations in order to improve his future employment prospects.

Mark said: “I had lost my way a little and was getting in trouble a lot before I was encouraged to sign up for the project. It has really helped me to become more confident and I have been able to show what I am capable of achieving. I’m moving into my own home soon and am hoping to get a work placement – so things are really looking up for me.”

Jo Powell, Project Worker at Hales House, said: “Mark is testament to the success of H2H. He has had a complete turnaround during the time he has been involved in the programme and is now trying to encourage others to do the same.

“Everyone has pulled together to provide a comprehensive programme of support to residents at the hostel and disruption to the community has fallen significantly. It has been a great success and is now being rolled out across other areas, so we are really pleased.”

The project is part-funded by Community Safety First and run in association with drug rehabilitation organisations The Lighthouse Project, Fusion and the Young People Specialist Substance Misuse Service. Additional support and training is provided by Bron Afon community housing service.

Housing Association Funds Electrical Apprenticeship Scheme

2010-02-25T11:40:00.000Z

A Newport-based housing association has committed to offering an apprenticeship scheme to provide training to electricians as a result of a pioneering partnership with an electrical contractor based in the city.

Charter Housing, part of the Seren Group, funded the training of three electrical apprentices working at CW Electrical, an electrical contracting firm. The three apprentices worked exclusively on Charter Housing electrical upgrade and maintenance projects and have now completed the Modern Apprenticeship qualification in electrical installation after four years of training.

Due to the success of the partnership the apprenticeship scheme has been extended by Charter to give three further apprentices the opportunity to learn the trade and benefit from on-the-job training.

The collaboration between Charter and CW Electrical provides essential training for apprentices while working on Charter properties across Newport.
Charter was the first housing association in Wales to fund a collaborative apprenticeship scheme and other housing associations are now following their lead with similar schemes.

Tim Adams, cost and asset manager at Charter Housing, said: “The apprenticeship scheme has been hugely successful and we have committed to running the programme for the foreseeable future. With more than 5000 properties across south east Wales, having qualified and committed tradesmen at hand is essential to the service we provide to our tenants.

“As a consequence of the current economic climate, apprenticeships of this kind are becoming increasingly important. People want to be reassured that by taking time to train they are making a reliable investment in their future.”

With their qualifications under their belts, the new electricians have also gained a health and safety qualification, which will soon be made mandatory, placing them a step ahead of their peers. CW Electrical is one of the first 100 companies in the UK with 100% of its staff passing the new health and safety assessment, the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS).

Apprentice Gavin Cook, age 21 from Cwmbran, said that the apprenticeship scheme has been invaluable to himself and his colleagues. “I had always wanted to learn a trade but thought that good apprenticeships were hard to find these days. The chance to train with CW Electrical was ideal, and the funding and support I received from Charter allowed me to put my training into practice.”

The newly qualified electricians are currently employed by CW Electrical and will continue to work on Charter properties undertaking electrical upgrade and maintenance projects. They will also continue to study additional electrical courses to further advance their training.

Harry Meese, managing director at CW Electrical, said: “Working in collaboration with Charter Housing has transformed our business and the way we train our apprentices. As a consequence, the company has grown from 16 to 54 employees.”
The Seren Group works with two other housing associations in a network of ‘social landlords’ providing affordable homes across south east Wales. This ‘GENuS framework’ of housing associations operates according to an open-book partnering agreement, which runs cooperative projects to meet the needs and capabilities of all three housing associations.

This allows the different housing associations to work together to provide maximum benefit for all individual schemes. The intention is to maximise productivity to provide the most effective and efficient service to clients in south east Wales; putting the best interests of clients first.

Tenants Take Control

2010-02-19T15:06:00.000Z

North Wales Housing has set up a new scheme to give its tenants a real say in how their housing services are delivered. Using a Welsh Assembly Government grant to pay for training, the housing association now has an active Tenant Advisory Panel working closely with board members to inform a broad range of decisions.

Garry O’Brien, Head of Asset Management at North Wales Housing, explains how the idea came about:
“We were approached by The Tenant Participation Advisory Service, which aims to create successful relationships between tenants, landlords and the government. They suggested using a Tenant Empowerment Grant from the Welsh Assembly Government to pay for training that would allow interested tenants to work effectively with us and inform various areas of our asset management agenda. We put the idea to our tenants and were really pleased with the enthusiasm they showed.”

One such enthusiastic tenant was Caroline Thomas, who has been with North Wales Housing for the past 20 years.
Despite initial concerns that the Advisory Panel might just be a token gesture, designed to appease various bodies that wanted to see tenant involvement, Caroline in now fully committed to the idea:
“The officers of North Wales Housing that participate in the meetings have been at great pains to make sure that we’re aware that this is not a token panel, that our views are counted, and that they matter.”

The evidence certainly bears Caroline out. Despite only meeting for the first time just eight months ago, the Tenant Advisory Panel has already sat in on interviews as part of the tender process for a reactive repairs contract.

The tenants’ views helped to sway the decision away from the cheapest quote, in favour of a contractor that they thought would deliver a service more appropriate to their needs.

According to Garry O’Brien; “In the past we may have inadvertently made decisions for residents that weren’t in their best interests. We now know that can’t happen anymore, which is undoubtedly a very good thing.”

Countdown to the general election has begun

2010-02-10T13:01:00.004Z

The countdown to the UK general election has begun and politicians are pushing forward their campaigns to fight for every vote.

The election promises to be closely contested, following developments in 2009 where the local and European elections confirmed the Conservatives’ lead over Labour.

It is vital that housing stays at the top of the political agenda and that the next government invest more in social housing in order to achieve many public policy objectives, including better educational achievements, improvement of lives by promoting better health outcomes, providing more training and job opportunities, providing sustainable development and helping to overcome social exclusion and poverty.

Did you know that:

* Every £1 spent improving heating in homes saves the NHS £34.19.

* Children living in acutely bad housing are 20% more likely to attend A&E than other children.

* 25% of children in bad housing gain no GCSEs.

* Early intervention by housing management staff resolves about 75% of ASB cases.

Housing is devolved to Wales – why is it important to lobby MPs?

Housing lies within the current devolved fields as set out in the Government of Wales Act 2006.

Although much of housing policy is devolved, some is not. The National assembly of Wales does not have full law-making powers, as primary legislation on Welsh affairs continues to be made in the UK Parliament at Westminster. The general election therefore presents a key opportunity to put clear messages to politicians about what the sector is doing, and what it could do in the future.

Housing has never been more important, and so it is vital to push our political engagement to a higher level.

As stated before, most of housing policy is devloved but the four UK housing federations believe that there are three key areas that are UK-wide and that must be key issues in the forthcoming general election.

Our manifesto can be downloaded here

2010-01-25T16:04:00.002Z

25 January 2010

News Release

HOUSING ASSOCIATION COMMITS TO CONSTRUCTION OF MORE THAN 160 AFFORDABLE HOMES IN WALES AFTER SECURING FUNDING FROM THE CO-OPERATIVE BANK
Housing association Melin Homes Limited is progressing ambitious plans to build more than 160 new affordable homes after securing substantial funding from The Co-operative Bank.
The not-for-profit social landlord based in Pontypool has received a £5m loan over 25 years from the South Wales corporate banking centre of The Co-operative Bank in Cardiff.
The loan allows Melin to increase its provision of housing with 167 new homes throughout south east Wales to be brought into management in the 2009/2010 financial year.

Melin already owns and manages over 3,000 homes across five local authority areas in south east Wales. It is playing a major role in helping the Welsh Assembly which governs Wales to meet its target of providing a further 6,500 affordable homes by 2012.

Andrew Hannah, senior business development manager at the corporate banking centre in Cardiff. said: “The Bank prides itself on its commitment to social and ethical investments and causes so our funding of Melin very much meets our criteria and we were delighted to help with the essential provision of affordable homes.

“We have a strong pipeline of deals going into 2010 and even in today’s tough economic climate, we’re very much open for business and lending to quality businesses with impressive strategies, such as Melin Homes Ltd.”

Peter Crockett, deputy chief executive of Melin Homes, said: “We are committed to providing affordable homes and this has become even more important given the current economic climate. With the help of lenders like The Co-Operative Bank we are bucking the trend and continuing to develop high-quality affordable homes for people who need them”.
Ends.

Notes to editors:
About The Co-operative Bank corporate banking:

· In the 28 weeks to July 25 2009 the corporate banking division of Co-operative Financial Services increased its corporate deposit balances by 21% to £11.2bn and corporate lending balances by 12% to £9.9bn.

· The corporate banking division’s contribution reflected strong growth in operating income because of the higher lending and deposit balances.

· The number of corporate banking centres nationwide is now 20 following openings in Southampton, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Cambridge, Altrincham and Chelmsford. This expansion of the centre network allowed the Bank to grow its corporate customer relationship base in business communities where it had not previously operated.

For more information please contact Justin Strong, associate director, SKV Communications on 0161 838 7770 or email: Justin.strong@skvcommunications.co.uk
Duncan Bowker, Co-operative Financial Services Press Office, tel: 0161 827 5617 or e-mail: duncan.bowker@co-op.co.uk or Paula Skyrme, Communication Officer at Melin Homes on 01495 745907 or email paula.skyrme@melinhomes.co.uk

Melin Homes invests in Torfaen's young people

2010-01-19T13:35:00.002Z

PRESS RELEASE
19 January 2010

Seven young people from Torfaen, who have been out of work for more than nine months, have taken advantage of a Government initiative to tackle youth unemployment.

Melin Homes has recently been successful in a joint bid, led by Torfaen Council, to provide jobs for young people via the Department for Work and Pensions’ £1-billion Future Jobs Fund.

As a result employment will be provided for at least six months to 12 young people, aged between 18 and 24, who are finding it difficult to find work.
The individuals will be working in a range of Melin’s departments and, in addition to valuable work experience, they will receive training and development opportunities.

The first of our Future Job Fund Trainees, Chris Barker age 19, Vikki Bradshaw age 20 and Yasmin Hier age 20 all live in Torfaen and have been with us since September They talked about their time at Melin and what they hoped to gain from their placement.

Vikki said: "I am enjoying every minute here at Melin. Everyone I’ve met has been friendly, helpful and good fun. I enjoy coming to work and I hope to gain a qualification at the end of the scheme and eventually a job and I’d love to learn more about community development. I have never felt so welcome, Melin is very different to everywhere else I’ve worked."

Chris said: "Everybody has been so welcoming and friendly. I have been out and about to see what Melin do. It is my first real job and it has helped build my confidence and I’m sure that I will gain valuable work experience with Melin.

Yasmin is based in Finance. She added: "I was initially very nervous about starting my new job. However all those initial nerves disappeared. I soon realised how friendly and approachable everyone is. I have already spent time doing a variety of tasks in finance and spent time working on reception.

I am getting plenty of experience and learning valuable skills in various different departments at Melin Homes. This will ultimately aid me in getting a permanent job."

It is anticipated that around 600 new jobs in total will be created for young, unemployed people in Torfaen thanks to this government initiative. Already covered above

Kellie Beirne, Melin’s Director of Communities and Enterprise Team is delighted with the enthusiasm shown by our first placements. She said: "I think it reinforced to all of us precisely why we have committed to working with the Future Jobs Fund in such a positive and dedicated way".

Jim Knight, Minister of State for Employment & Welfare Reform, said:

"It's great to hear these young adults in Torfaen are now more positive about their future as a direct result of these jobs with Melin Homes. These jobs have been created as part of Backing Young Britain, our campaign to bring together employers across the country to give young people the guarantee of work or training if they are coming up to a year's unemployment."

Councillor Richard Clark, Torfaen’s executive member for regeneration, said:“I am delighted with the impact that the Future Jobs fund is making in Torfaen and the support we have had from partners such as Melin. We are seeing organisations across the borough providing life changing opportunities to young people, providing them with the skills and experience that will give them a brighter future and long may this continue.”

Photo caption:
Left to right: Vikki Bradshaw, Yasmine Hier, Kellie Beirne, Director of Communities and Enterprise and Chris Barker.

Notes

Melin Homes is a not for profit landlord providing quality homes and services across Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Newport, Powys and Torfaen. For further information please visit http://www.melinhomes.co.uk/

The Future Jobs Fund was announced in Budget 2009 and the money is to be spent between October 2009 and March 2011. The fund is run by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in partnership with the Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG) and with input from Jobcentre Plus Regional Government Offices in England and Devolved Administrations in Scotland and Wales.

The Fund aims to create 150,000 additional jobs, primarily aimed at 18-24 year olds who have been out of work for nearly a year to deliver real benefits to communities. The Future Jobs Fund is a part of the Young Person’s Guarantee.
From early 2010, everyone in between the ages of 18 and 24 who has been looking for work for a year will get an offer of a job, work experience, or training lasting at least 6 months. We are specifically targeting 50,000 jobs in unemployment hotspots and expect around 10,000 of the 150,000 jobs created to be green jobs.

Paula Skyrme
Communication Officer
Melin Homes
Tel: 01495 745907
email: paula.skyrme@melinhomes.co.uk
www.melinhomes.co.uk

Inter-estate football tournament hosted to calm anti-social behaviour in Newport

2010-01-13T14:02:00.002Z

A football tournament between young people from five housing estates across Newport has been hosted in Bettws by a local housing association in response to calls for safe areas for children to play in the city.

Newport based Charter Housing, the social housing branch of the not-for-profit organisation the Seren Group, hosted the five-a-side football tournament. The tournament was organised for children aged 11-16 following complaints about young people on the estates drinking alcohol, vandalising property, and playing football in the streets.

The football event is part of an Aspirations Project, which provides ongoing opportunities for young people to develop their skills and confidence, working to empower young people by using positive activities. The aim of the event was to get youths involved in sport and to raise their awareness of the training opportunities and support services that are available to them.

The tournament was funded by Safer Newport, a local Community Safety Partnership that works to reduce disorder in the area, as part of their Community Youth Project fund. It was also supported by the Welsh Assembly Government’s Communities First and Sports Development initiatives, which work together to ease community problems and provide access to sporting facilities and training – tackling issues at ground level.

More than 50 young people took part in the eight team inter-estate cup league, with the Under 13’s Bettws All Stars and the Under 15’s Mountain Climbers claiming victory in their categories. For shadow referees, Michael Swift, 17, and Louis Thomas, 18, the tournament was an opportunity to gain some practice before they start their football coaching awards with Sports Development.

Stacey Tipler, youth and community development officer at Charter, said: “This football tournament gave us a chance to meet a number of young people on our estates and help them to get actively involved in sport. It also gave the young people the chance to meet their peers from other estates and break down barriers between them.
“We had a really great response from young people and our partners and we hope to make this a regular event. The day was really positive and all the young people that took part were enthusiastic and keen to take part in future activities with us. Best of all, it didn’t rain!”

Design and Print - Getting Your Message Across, Maggie McTurk, Coastal Housing Group. PR Network 8th March, 2009

2009-12-21T14:42:00.002Z

Design Getting Your Message Across

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RT Hon First Minister Rhodri Morgan addresses Community Housing Cymru's housing partnership conference, Nov 2009

2009-12-10T17:17:00.003Z

Cllr Aled Roberts responds to Rhodri Morgan's speech at CHC annual housing conference, Nov 2009

2009-12-10T17:07:00.002Z

Ian Williams, Chair of CHC responds to First Minister Rhodri Morgan, at CHC annual housing conference

2009-12-10T17:01:00.004Z

Building communities - not just homes. Lord Andrew Mawson addresses delegates at CHC's annual housing partnership conference, Nov 2009

2009-12-10T16:31:00.003Z

Lord Mawson has been involved in the housing association movement for over 30 years. He is a founding member of Poplar Harca, a £300m housing company in east London that has connected social housing with community development. He is quoted as saying “It is time for the housing movement to re-visit its entrepreneurial roots – we need to create positive developments for communities instead of more policy and rhetoric… We are not just building houses, we are building communities.” Lord Mawson will outline his reasoning by highlighting a number of ground breaking projects that he has been involved with.

Sue Essex addresses delegates at CHC's Housing partnership conference, November 2009

2009-12-10T16:29:00.002Z

As the implementation of the Essex recommendations come to an end, now is the time to reflect on what has changed and to ask why the process has worked so well. If it can work in housing, can the process be repeated in other sectors?

Community Housing Cymru's television advert to warn people: Don't get bitten by loansharks.

2009-12-10T16:20:00.001Z

Don't get bitten by Loansharks

CHC's movements PR Network, 8th Decemer 2009

2009-12-10T15:20:00.000Z

Pr Network 8 CHCs Movements

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Don't get bitten by Loansharks

2009-12-09T13:20:00.001Z

Community Housing Cymru launch hard hitting campaign to urge tenants: Don't get bitten by loansharks'
See TV advert below.

PR Network - 8th December 2009

2009-12-09T13:14:00.001Z

Resident Profiling - Wales and West

Resident Profilng Wales and West Housing Association

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Tenants win national award

2009-11-19T10:36:00.000Z

Tenants and staff from a south Wales housing organisation have won a national award. Yesterday (WED) ten tenants and staff from Bron Afon Community Housing went on stage at the UK Housing Awards to collect the prize for ‘delivering better accountability and resident involvement’.

Bron Afon, one of the largest social enterprises in Wales, started work last year (31March 2008) following a ‘yes’ vote to transfer 8,000 homes from Torfaen Council.

The award was given for the huge involvement of tenants and staff leading up to the ballot during which they shaped and designed the type of organisation they wanted as their landlord and employer. They then helped to set up the new organisation and their involvement continues to help decisions get made every day.

Duncan Forbes, chief executive, said: “We are a community mutual that is owned by our 1,400 members. They are the shareholders who work in partnership with staff and our Board who are unpaid. Members have spent over 6,000 hours (250 days) involved in shaping and developing our services over the last year. This award shows that local people getting involved in local services really works.

“In Bron Afon, tenant involvement is everyone’s job, not just at special events. It has been a successful team effort since day one. Tenants told us they wanted a new landlord that was democratic and had high levels of community involvement.

“In 18 months we have created 117 new jobs in Torfaen and 48 apprenticeships. As a social enterprise we plan to invest £100 million over the next four years. Nine out of ten of the contractors we use are from south east Wales which really helps the local economy.”

Paddy Gray, Vice President of the Chartered Institute of Housing, said: “Bron Afon Community Housing has made a real attempt to involve the people of Torfaen in decision making throughout the consultation period and since the transfer to the new organisation. They are worthy winners of this award.”

The awards were held in London.

Newport Housing Association and Health Board Launches 1st Community-Based Ante-Natal Service

2009-11-19T10:34:00.002Z

Expectant mothers in Fairview near Blackwood are set to benefit from improved ante-natal services thanks to a partnership between a local housing association and health services in the Caerphilly Borough.
Charter Housing, part of the Seren Group, has partnered with the Aneurin Bevan Health Board’s Women and Child Health Division to offer a midwife-led ant-natal service that will be based at Charter’s community house on the Fairview estate. The community house is a property owned by Charter which is designed to be used by all members of the community.
The scheme is aimed at providing more accessible and comfortable ante-natal services to mums-to-be in familiar surroundings, where they can benefit from the support of other mothers and health professionals in the area.
As with traditional ante-natal services, the scheme will provide health checks and advice from qualified community midwives in the run-up to the birth as well as the opportunity to attend support sessions once their baby is born.
Kate Aspinwall, community development officer at Charter Housing, said: “The launch of this scheme is really exciting for us and we are delighted to be working in partnership not only with the midwives but also the local community.
“Our aim is to bring ante-natal services closer to the community to help to encourage new and expectant mothers to attend sessions as they won’t have to travel so far. We also hope those who have never been to the community house before will come along and begin to create a real focal point for the Fairview and Upper Trelyn communities.”
The partnership will also help establish a range of activities that bring together the community, the team that looks after women and children’s health and the local housing provider to offer on-going support to mothers and families. Starting with the weekly clinic, plans for the future include breastfeeding support, parent and family sessions and a parent and toddler group. Working closely with the community, the project will also help identify local needs and assist in building the confidence and skills of parents and families.
Mum-to-be Emma Brown, 37, who lives on the Fairview estate, said: “The community clinic is really good for me because I can bring along my older children, who can play with the toys and other kids in the playroom downstairs while I have my check-ups. This is my fourth pregnancy, so I know that it really helps to have a midwife that you are comfortable with and the support and friendship of other mothers in the area.
“An extra bonus for me is the fact that the clinic is just around the corner from where I live, so juggling three kids, my job and my ante-natal appointments is made much easier.”
Lesley Constance, lead midwife for the Aneurin Bevan Health Board in the Caerphilly Borough, said: “The clinic will place the midwives within the community, which allows the team to provide more consistent and tailored support to local women.
“The fact that it is so easy for local residents to attend the clinics removes many of the stresses often associated with pregnancy and also allows the midwives and expectant mothers to get to know each other better. The key aim for us is to provide a continuous, accessible and informed service to expectant mothers where they feel comfortable.”
The ante-natal clinic will run every Monday between 1pm and 3pm at the Fairview community House, 5 Clos Ceirw, Fairview, North Blackwood. Anyone wishing to find out more about the clinic should contact Lesley Constance on 02920 807231 or Kate Aspinwall on 01633 678514.

On your marks; get set; GROW!

2009-11-19T10:30:00.000Z

Male members of staff from Grŵp Gwalia are in for a hair-raising adventure over the next month as they grow moustaches to support The Prostate Cancer Charity.
Nearly a dozen of them are hoping supporters will put money where their mouths are as they join others participating in Movember: a moustache-growing charity event held during November each year.
Movember is about having fun, growing a moustache and raising much needed funds and awareness for prostate cancer, which is the most common cancer amongst men in the UK. One man dies every hour of prostate cancer in the UK and more than 35,000 men will be diagnosed this year.
Grŵp Gwalia’s Architect & Deputy Director of Development, Elfed Roberts, is taking part despite a prior commitment to appear at the Royal Society of Architects in Wales annual conference on the 27th November. “My Wyatt Earp-inspired moustache will just be reaching maturity by then”, he said. “I’m hoping it will be something of an ice-breaker!”

New Initiative launched at Family Housing Association

2009-11-19T10:28:00.000Z

Family Housing Association Tenants’ Panel has launched a new initiative which is the culmination of two years of successful developments in Tenant participation.

Service Assessors (SAs), known elsewhere as Tenant Inspectors, are a group of eight tenants who will be assisting the Association with the review of its services. The Association has a draft set of service standards which the Service Assessors will be using to plan their evaluations.

The group has undergone intensive training by Maria Round of the Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS), Cymru which has equipped the SAs with the skills to use a variety of methods, such as mystery shopping and tenant interviews and surveys. The training was made possible by financial contributions from Family Housing as well as some of the Association’s contractors, namely : Cowlin, Service Total, Seal UPVC and Gibsons .

The Panel was also successful in a bid for grant funding from Trafford Hall in Chester.

The photo shows Tenant Participation Officer Carol Johns with six of the Tenant Service Assessors.

Gwalia gives green light as graduate duo appointed

2009-11-19T10:25:00.001Z

Grŵp Gwalia, Wales’ foremost provider of social housing, care and support has bucked the recruitment trend by appointing two graduates and launching an annual graduate recruitment scheme.

Matthew Kennedy, 22, a University of Kent graduate in politics and international relations, and Matthew Sparkes, 33, a Swansea University graduate in crime, law and policy, with a further degree in sign language, are the first applicants to enter the new trainee scheme.

Structured over two years, the fast-track system will offer the graduates an overview of all sectors of the business which develops and manages over 5,500 properties, plays a key role in the care and support of vulnerable people and employs more than 700 people in Wales.

Based at Grŵp Gwalia headquarters in Swansea, the two graduates will work across all areas of the organisation including housing management, care and support, student accommodation and with Gwalia’s group directorates including finance, HR, procurement and business management departments.

Speaking of the decision to introduce a graduate trainee scheme, Heather Hewitt, Head of Learning and Development said: “The appointment of our first two graduate trainees marks a very exciting time for Grŵp Gwalia. At a time where many organisations have reduced their recruitment, particularly of graduates, Gwalia is very pleased to be making this step forward and bucking the trend.

“The creation of our structured trainee scheme reflects our commitment to offer the very best service to our tenants and all of those associated with Grŵp Gwalia, while providing our employees with the best possible start to their careers at Grŵp Gwalia.”
-Ends-
...2

Picture caption from left to right:
Grwp Gwalia’s graduate appointments Matthew Kennedy and Matthew Sparkes.

10 Second Advert

2009-11-17T11:52:00.001Z

Unscrupulous Loan Sharks Target Vulnerable Tenants

2009-11-04T08:24:00.002Z

A hard hitting media campaign advising vulnerable social housing tenants not to ‘get bitten’ by loan sharks will be launched today by the membership body for housing associations in Wales.

Over 15,000 households are believed to have borrowed money from loan sharks, and Community Housing Cymru is keen to raise awareness of the scale of the problem and to educate tenants that borrowing even a small amount of money could mean paying back thousands of pounds in interest.

The campaign, which is being launched at the Senedd, will include emotive television adverts and provocative bus side posters, urging tenants to avoid borrowing from loan sharks and encouraging them to seek alternative ways to access credit.

Nick Bennett, Chief Executive of CHC, commented: "Approximately 60-70% of social housing tenants are financially excluded which means they can’t access bank accounts, money advice or affordable credit. Individuals with a poor credit reference will find it difficult to borrow money at reasonable rates and some are even refused credit from the less risk adverse lenders. There have been a number of high profile court cases surrounding unlicensed loan sharks in the media recently, but while the media coverage and the condemnation of these unscrupulous lenders diminish, the circumstances that drive individuals to use these loan sharks remain.”

Exclusion from all forms of legal credit can force people to get involved with these illegal money lenders, or loan sharks. Since illegal money lenders do not have any legal recourse, they often resort to violence and intimidation, which can be devastating for communities as well as the individuals who are at a much greater risk of losing their homes due to the extortionate repayments.

The Wales Illegal Money Lending Unit, set up in 2008 to tackle the problem of illegal money lending, claim that in areas where they have been successful in removing loan sharks, social landlords saw a decrease in arrears as victims were once again able to pay their rent. Run by twelve trading standards officials with close links to the police, the unit has arrested 36 loan sharks and has identified around 700 loan shark victims in Wales so far. No one knows exactly how many loan sharks are operating around the country; it is, after all, a criminal activity and it’s estimated that around 15,000 households are using them, but as the recession continues to bite, no one doubts that this number will rise.

Steve Tooby, Head of the Wales Illegal Money Lending Unit added: “We have recently seen an increase in calls from people identifying loan sharks targeting vulnerable people in our communities. Loan sharks often threaten and intimidate their victims. In the cases reported to us we really are making a difference, arresting the loan sharks and helping to support their victims. Remember that the debt to a loan shark is illegal and does not have to be paid. We really can help and I would encourage anyone who encounters a loan shark to call our hotline number in confidence.”

Eviction through rent arrears is not the only way a loan shark victim can lose their home; often victims are forced to quickly flee the area, thus abandoning their home, or they are forced to move to protect their families.

While this campaign is focusing on loan sharks, the housing association sector also believes that licensed doorstep lenders are taking advantage of vulnerable families by offering them loans with crippling interest rates, but there is demand for these services as easy access to mainstream credit has dried up, people have been made redundant, or have had their wages decreased.

It is estimated that around 150,000 households in Wales owe money to a doorstep lender, with Wales recognised as an area where home collected credit is higher than the average.

Nick Bennett added: "Are doorstep lenders classified as loan sharks? Well, the Oxford English Dictionary defines loan sharks as ‘a moneylender who charges exorbitant rates of interest.’ For a £500 loan over 23 weeks taken with the Provident, the total interest you would have to repay would be £747.20, that’s 545.2% APR. The difference between doorstep lenders and the loan sharks as we know them is that doorstep lenders are licensed and legal while loan sharks are unlicensed and illegal.”

In the run up to Christmas, CHC are urging tenants to avoid borrowing from loan sharks and doorstep lenders and encouraging them to seek alternative ways to access credit. The housing association sector has been instrumental in setting up a new Community Development Finance Initiative (CDFI) in Wales. This initiative was partly funded by 18 CHC members who have contributed over £458k to the project, Social Finance who have invested £1.2 million loan capital and a contribution of £620,000 from the Department of Work and Pensions growth fund. The aim of Moneyline Cymru is to provide money, advice and credit for people who are usually denied these from the mainstream outlets. Over the next month, five pilot high street shops will be in operation in south Wales and these outlets will give loans and financial advice to customers while setting up basic bank accounts for them along with a savings account at their local credit union. The outlets will be established in Pontypridd, Cardiff, Cwmbran, Newport and Bridgend.

Dr Brian Gibbons, Minister for Social Justice added:” I am very pleased to add my support to the campaign. I am very aware that the problem of illegal money lending will be more acute in the current financial climate and am committed to doing all I can to tackle the loan sharks in partnership with the Welsh Illegal Money Lending Unit, the police and third sector organisations like Community Housing Cymru. We can only tackle problems like this by working together, so I am delighted that this campaign is being launched today.”

For further information on the campaign and for details of organisations who can help, please visit Community Housing Cymru’s website, chcymru.org.uk.
The 24 hour Illegal Money Lending hotline number is 0300 123 33 11.

Cycling for Shelter

2009-10-07T15:06:00.003+01:00

A group of housing professionals from south Wales have cycled 1018 miles from Lands End to John O’Groats in nine days to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

The six-strong team completed the challenging cycle following months of training and preparation. When they crossed the finish line at John O’Groats over £10,000 had been raised for Shelter Cymru.

Richard Mann from United Welsh housing association was a member of the team along with colleagues from Mi Space. Richard said: “The experience was something I will never forget. It was a massive challenge both mentally and physically but I wouldn’t change a moment of it. We travelled through some beautiful parts of the country and fortunately the weather was kind to us. When things got tough, the goal of raising so much money for Shelter Cymru kept us going. I was blown away by the stunning countryside of Britain and plan to return to Scotland next year with my family.

"I am lucky enough to have travelled in my time, but never like this. I have made some excellent friends, seen an eagle land on a post only 10m from me, salmon jumping and some of the most outstanding countryside imaginable. In doing so we have raised £10,000 for Shelter, a fantastic cause and one that United Welsh is closely linked."

The team cycled over 1000 miles in nine days with the longest day covering 132 miles. This gruelling challenge took its toll on both man and machine. There was a need for replacement bikes and plenty of padded cushions at the end of each day!

Newport Housing Association Celebrates International Older Person’s Day

2009-10-06T10:53:00.002+01:00

Newport-based Charter Housing, part of the Seren Group, has been celebrating International day of Older Persons (1st October) with a new fitness and wellbeing initiative for its more senior tenants.

Tenants from Charter’s sheltered housing schemes across Newport were presented with a Nintendo Wii to encourage them to keep fit and active in-line with the organisation’s tenant participation strategy.

The Wii has a variety of games that help improve general fitness and will be based at the organisation’s Stratford House sheltered housing scheme in Newport.

Jill Pitman, scheme manager at Stratford House, said: “The Wii has been a great success this morning, the tenants have really enjoyed having a go on the different games and the bowling has been particularly popular.

“We currently run ‘Extend’ sessions once a week which involve armchair exercises and stretches but this offers those that are able something extra that they can do at their own pace. Not only are initiatives like this important for our tenant’s health, they also promote social interaction which is vital to their general wellbeing.

June Harding who lives at Stratford House, said: “This is great, it’s just what we need for our communal lounge as we spend a lot of time in here. The Wii will be great in the winter as we will be able to keep active when we’re not able to go outside so much. I’m really looking forward to giving the other residents a run for their money in the bowling competition!”

Picture caption:
Stratford House resident June Harding has a go on the Nintendo Wii under the supervision of the other residents

12,000 free lightbulbs

2009-10-06T10:47:00.001+01:00

Twelve thousand low-energy lightbulbs are being given away free to Bron Afon Community Housing tenants in Torfaen. They have been donated to Bron Afon by Scottish and Southern Energy.

Duncan Forbes, Chief Executive of Bron Afon, said: “Our staff will be doing everything they can to encourage people to use these bulbs. Some will be fitted in tenants’ homes while we are doing improvement work. We will also be fitting them in homes that have been empty and are being prepared for a new tenant to move in. Residents who come along to any of our community meetings can also ask a member of staff for some and we will make sure they get them. The important thing is these bulbs get used in homes so people can save money on their electric bills as soon as possible.”

Latest Rural Housing Scheme

2009-10-01T15:48:00.003+01:00

Pembrokeshire Housing's recent development at Clunderwen was officially opened by Cllr John Davies, Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council.

The development, on the site of the Old Mart ground now provides affordable quality homes for 27 families through a range of flats, bungalows and houses.

Mrs Yvonne Evans advised that "following consultation with both the Community Council and County Council, Pembrokeshire Housing operated a local lettings initiative for this development. This resulted in 18 of the initial lettings being to people meeting the criteria for this scheme".

Cllr John Davies welcomed the development as meeting local housing need and stated that the County Council had been happy to co-operate with Pembrokeshire Housing by making land available for the development.

Front left to right:Yvonne Evans, Chair of Pembrokeshire Housing
Miss Symonds, Bro Waldo Resident
Cllr Ann Hughes, Chair of Pembrokeshire County Council
Sue Richards, Chair of Clunderwen Community Council

Back: Cllr John Davies, Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council

Manorbier Local Lettings Scheme

2009-10-01T15:48:00.001+01:00

New homes in Manorbier

Pembrokeshire Housing is building nine new quality affordable homes for rent to people in housing need at Manorbier. Rents £60 to £75 per week. We plan to complete and let these new homes in January 2010.

We promised the local community that when the homes were first let that priority would be given to local people in housing need. So local people in housing need will be considered first.

A choice of new homes

We are building 6 one bedroom flats, 2 three bedroom houses and a two bedroom bungalow. Rents will range from £60 per week to around £75. Most of our applicants qualify for housing benefit and we will help people with the forms to claim housing benefit.

Priority for local people who need a home

People who qualify for the Manorbier Local Letting Scheme will get the first chance to bid for these new homes.

Do I qualify for the Manorbier Local Letting Scheme?

You qualify if you can answer YES to these questions:
• I am already registered with ChoiceHomes@Pembrokeshire
• I am in housing need and have been awarded a SILVER band, GOLD band, or a priority card
• I live in the Manorbier Community Council area in my only or principal home, and have done so for at least the last 12 months, or
• I do not currently live in the Manorbier Community Council area in my only or principal home but I have lived in this area for at least 5 out of the last 10 years
What happens next?

In September 2009, Pembrokeshire Housing will tell local people about the Manorbier Local Lettings Scheme. We will deliver leaflets to local homes and shops, and arrange an open day.

In November 2009 the new homes will be advertised in the Western Telegraph and on the ChoiceHomes@Pembrokeshire website.At this stage, only bidders who qualify for the Manorbier Local Lettings scheme will be considered for a new home. We will ask bidders to verify their details before a home is offered.

If there are more qualifying bidders for any property size/type than homes available, offers will be made to the qualifying bidders as follows.

Priority card holders in date order, followed by Gold band applicants in date order, followed by Silver band applicants in date order.If you are a successful bidder you will receive an offer of accommodation, and further information e.g. when you can move into your new home.

Any homes that remain available after this process will be advertised through ChoiceHomes@Pembrokeshire in the normal way.

Where can I get further help or information?

You can register with ChoiceHomes@Pembrokeshire by completing an application form and returning it to Pembrokeshire Housing, or any of the other partner landlords.

You can read or download information 24 hours a day by visiting Pembrokeshire Housing online at www.pembs-ha.co.uk

You can speak to your local team at Pembrokeshire Housing, Debbie Scott or Kieron Ferry, on 0800 854568.

You can write or visit us at: Pembrokeshire Housing, Meyler House, St Thomas Green, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire , SA61 1QP.

We are open Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm, and on Friday 9am to 4.30pm.

Clarbeston Road Local Lettings Scheme

2009-10-01T15:47:00.001+01:00

New homes in Clarbeston Road

Pembrokeshire Housing is building three new quality affordable homes for rent to people in housing need at Clarbeston Road. We plan to complete and let these new homes in November 2009.

We promised the local community that when the homes were first let that priority would be given to local people in housing need. So local people in housing need will be considered first.

A choice of new homes

We are building 3 two bedroom bungalows especially suitable for older persons (55 years plus). Rents will be around £75 per week. Most of our applicants qualify for housing benefit and we will help people with the forms to claim housing benefit.

Priority for local people who need a home

People who qualify for the Clarbeston Rd Local Letting Scheme will get the first chance to bid for these new homes.

Do I qualify for the Clarbeston Rd Local Letting Scheme?

You qualify if you can answer YES to these questions
• I am 55 years or older
• I am already registered with ChoiceHomes@Pembrokeshire
• I am in housing need and have been awarded a SILVER band, GOLD band, or a priority card
• I live in the Wiston Community Council area in my only or principal home, and have done so for at least the last 12 months, or
• I do not currently live in the Wiston Community Council area in my only or principal home but I have lived in this area for at least 5 out of the last 10 years.
What happens next?

In September 2009, Pembrokeshire Housing will tell local people about the Clarbeston Rd Local Lettings Scheme. We will deliver leaflets to local homes and shops.

In October 2009 the new homes will be advertised in the Western Telegraph and on the ChoiceHomes@Pembrokeshire website.

At this stage, only bidders who qualify for the Clarbeston Rd Local Lettings scheme will be considered for a new home. We will ask bidders to verify their details before a home is offered.

If there are more qualifying bidders than available homes, offers will be made to the qualifying bidders as follows.

Priority card holders in date order, followed by Gold band applicants in date order, followed by Silver band applicants in date order.

If you are a successful bidder you will receive an offer of accommodation, and further information e.g. when you can move into your new home.

Any homes that remain available after this process will be advertised through ChoiceHomes@Pembrokeshire in the normal way.

Where can I get further help or information?

You can register with ChoiceHomes@Pembrokeshire by completing an application form and returning it to Pembrokeshire Housing, or any of the other partner landlords.

You can read or download information 24 hours a day by visiting Pembrokeshire Housing online at www.pembs-ha.co.uk

You can speak to your local team at Pembrokeshire Housing, Karen Holroyd or Lee Sanders, on 0800 854568.

You can write or visit us at; Pembrokeshire Housing, Meyler House, St Thomas Green, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 1QP.

We are open Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm, and on Friday 9am to 4.30pm.

2009-09-29T09:02:00.010+01:00

Over £100m additional funding for Welsh Social Housing Sector

2009-09-23T14:36:00.002+01:00

£105m additional investment earmarked for Sector.

With fewer lenders in the market, Community Housing Cymru are delighted to announce an additional £ 75M planned funding from the European Investment Bank for the social housing sector, together with an additional £30m from the Principality Building Society . Detailed proposals to extend this funding to Welsh Housing Assocations are currently being finalised and the commitments should be complete by December.

The Welsh Housing sector usually extends its borrowing by approximately £150m per annum - so this new injection of funds from the EIB is a massive boost to the whole sector. The funding will come via the Housing Finance Corporation (THFC), a not for profit finance company set up in 1987 by the Housing Corporation and the National Housing Federation. CHC originally approached the EIB at the beginning of the year, before making contact with the THFC who will act as the lender for this funding. At the Welsh social housing finance summit in July organised by CHC and chaired by the First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, the case for additional EIB funding was put to the THFC Chief Executive, Piers Williamson. Exploring additional support through the EIB was a recommendation of the Essex review on affordable housing.

THFC have been in negotiation with around 10 members of Community Housing Cymru who will get additional funding ranging from £2m to £15m. The funding will need to be utilised for community regeneration projects, with recipients demonstrating the regeneration benefits in each area. Housing Associations benefiting from the increased lending span the whole of Wales.

Nick Bennett, Chief Executive of CHC said: “This is great news. The social housing sector in Wales has been concerned to see that there is sufficient supply of lending into the sector since the global credit crisis, given the huge progress made on achieving the One Wales target of 6500 affordable units. A new injection of £105m will be of direct benefit to associations that have secured the funding and the communities that they serve. Given that Wales suffers from a range of economic and social challenges- many of which have a clear link to housing and the need for more regeneration, I would like to think that this is the first step in creating a permanent EIB fund for Wales?"

Rhodri Morgan, First Minister added: "This is a major step forward in meeting the borrowing needs of the Welsh housing sector. This significant investment by the EIB & the Principality Building Society is very welcome. Since the credit crunch there has been real difficulty and this news will act as a stimulus to the construction industry at this very difficult time and will help Wales meet our economic challenges. It's a good demonstration of Wales' ability to secure a very positive outcome in a short timescale by all the social partners working together . "

Piers Williamson, THFC, added:”We are delighted to be extending the range and depth of our relationships with Welsh Housing Associations. Since our relationship with EIB commenced 11 years ago THFC has invested over £800m of EIB’s money. Welsh Associations have worked really hard to maximise this opportunity and we are sure that there are schemes which will be financed here that wouldn’t have happened without the help of EIB”

Peter Hughes, Peter Hughes, Head of Commercial Lending at the Principality commented: " This is truly a terrific news story for Wales and is consistent with the Society’s ethos of working very closely in partnership with housing associations and local communities. Principality recognised very quickly that the freezing of the credit markets was an obvious threat to the delivery of the housing commitments within Wales. Accordingly from very early this year we have been working tirelessly to ensure that together we can continue to support the principles of providing more homes for the people of Wales – our core mission since we began in 1860. The combination of our local knowledge and experience of working within Wales alongside the might of the European Investment Bank will prove to be a very powerful force. Clearly the story doesn’t end here - Sue Essex’s report provided a valuable blueprint for delivering more homes within Wales and we are actively working on several other strands towards addressing the housing agenda"

This extra funding is in addition to reprofilled Social Housing Grant of £28m from 2009/10, £42m from the Welsh Assembly Government's strategic capital investment fund and the reprofiling of resources from next year in order to ensure a fiscal stimulus. By increasing leverage, the housing association sector is showing its willingness to play their part in taking Wales out of the recession.

Photo caption Members of CHC national council: L-R Katrina Michael, Nigel Draper, Mike Dymond, Ian Williams, and Sue Essex, author of the Essex report

Front Row L-R John Clowes, Rhodri Morgan, Andrew Davies AM

New Name & Identity To Back-Up All Wales Domestic Abuse Support Service

2009-09-09T15:21:00.000+01:00

On the 4th of September 2009 Cymdeithas Tai Hafan changes its name to Hafan Cymru. The organisation are doing this to reinforce its position as Wales’s leading charitable organisation dedicated to preventing abuse and promoting independence for women, men and children. Dr. Brian Gibbons AM (Minister for Social Justice and Local Government) and Chris Needs BBC Radio Wales presenter will be joining Hafan Cymru Service Users, Staff and Partners at the AGM in Swansea to celebrate the launch.

“To move away from the name that has established our organisation as the leading Welsh provider of supported services to women, children, and more recently men, escaping Domestic Abuse and rebrand as Hafan Cymru is a big step but a step that we felt was essential. Ensuring that our image and our message clearly reflects our support services and gives us a strong identity within our sector is key to our future development. The current economic climate wasn’t going to deter us from pressing ahead with these plans, in fact it spurred us on. “said Cathy Davies, Chief Executive.

There are 4 key drivers behind the new identity:
- Supporting Men - After 20 years of supporting women and children only, this year Hafan Cymru have begun to provide support to men, and in particular to fill the gap of providing for the support needs of men escaping domestic violence and abuse. Hafan Cymru intend to continue to expand and grow the core business of supporting women and children and focus on those experiencing domestic abuse and women-centred services will remain key to all they do.
- More Than Just Housing - It is important to Hafan Cymru that they do not lose the reputation or ethos of the organisation or the links to the past but they do want to move away from being known as a housing association now that the majority of their services are delivered in the community as floating support.
- Wales Wide Services - They also want to reflect the all-Wales presence and the breadth of services, both in support and sanctuary through housing and housing-related support and in safety and preventative work around domestic abuse.
- Not Ty Hafan! - It has become increasingly apparent that the name of Tai Hafan by which the organisation was generally known was confused in the minds of others with that of Ty Hafan the children’s hospice. The new Hafan Cymru name and identity will remove this confusion.

“All of these factors considered, we feel excited that the new name of Hafan Cymru gives us clarity in our name and identity and encapsulates who we are” said Cathy.

True to the organisations ethos of participation, they involved everyone in the decision making process. In June 2009, staff, Board members, tenants and service users chose the new logo, retaining the organisation’s colours of green and purple which bind it to its historical roots in the women’s suffrage movement.
END
For more information about this story contact Ffion Jones on 01267 225558 or 07890636898.
To keep up with Hafan Cymru’s latest work and new developments visit: www.hafancymru.co.uk

Help for social enterprises

2009-09-01T09:11:00.000+01:00

The Chief Executive of Bron Afon Community Housing has been appointed by Welsh Deputy Minister, Leighton Andrews AM to join a group that will advise the Welsh Assembly Government on social enterprises. Duncan Forbes, a former solicitor, has experience of the legal frameworks of social enterprises and co-authored ’Voluntary but not Amateur: a guide to the law for Voluntary Organisations’.

A social enterprise is a business that is not driven by profit but has social objectives as its key aim.

Duncan said: “As Bron Afon is a new charitable social enterprise, just sixteen months old, I hope to be able to make a very useful contribution to this group to help increase the number of social enterprises in Wales. Bron Afon aims to invest in people, homes and communities so improving the quality of life in local communities in Torfaen is part of our core business.

“In the last year we have been involved in many projects to bring extra benefits to the area. We have created 109 new jobs in Bron Afon and more with some of our local contractors. We have 43 apprentices and more work with our contractors. Nine out of ten of our contractors are based in Torfaen or the immediately surrounding area. We have also recently opened a new social enterprise cafe in our headquarters that provides work opportunities to adults with learning difficulties.”

Six other people will join the group to give advice to the Deputy Minister for Regeneration, Leighton Andrews.

He said: “I am pleased that these highly experienced social enterprise practitioners have agreed to work on the Social Enterprise Ministerial Advisory Group. I am confident that this new group will make a big contribution to the development of social enterprise policy in Wales over the next few years”.

Newport Housing Association Raises Standards in Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour

2009-08-27T11:03:00.001+01:00

A Newport-based housing association has become a signatory to the Welsh Assembly Government’s Housing Management Standard for tackling anti-social behaviour.

Charter Housing nuisance prevention team has been recognised as meeting the Welsh Assembly Government’s (WAG) standards for social landlords in addressing anti-social behaviour.

Charter Housing, part of the Seren Group, has a long-established reputation for its work on addressing complaints of anti-social behaviour in neighbourhoods for the benefit of their tenants and has dealt with over 180 cases in the last 12 months.

To gain the endorsement, Charter had to demonstrate that they met a number of rigorous management standards set by WAG.

The organisation works to resolve complaints quickly and support both victims and those accused of anti-social behaviour by using both legal and non-legal measures. The association also seeks to provide practical assistance for those experiencing substance misuse problems, which can lead to anti-social behaviour.

John Priday, nuisance prevention manager at Charter Housing, said: “Our approach to tackling anti-social behaviour reassures our tenants that we have their best interests at heart and we aim to keep them informed of the whole process, from start to finish.

“Resolving anti-social behaviour in our communities is not a matter for Charter alone but it is the responsibility of several agencies as well as those courageous tenants and other members of the community who work with us and support us to get the job done. Without them providing us with information that we can use as part of the case, it is virtually impossible for us to resolve any complaints.

“Achieving the Housing Management Standard is recognition that we are approaching the very emotive issue of neighbour nuisance and anti-social behaviour in a manner that is considered to be both effective and appropriate. We have a very good reputation within the social housing sector in Wales and across into England and we continue to provide training to other landlords on best-practice approaches to tackling anti-social behaviour.”

Charter’s Nuisance Prevention Team has been in existence since 2003. Achieving the Wales Housing Management Standard demonstrates that the team is on-track in addressing concerns about anti-social behaviour and has contributed greatly to improving charter’s communities.

Charter is a not-for-profit company providing high-quality, affordable housing for rent to customers living in over 4,500 properties in Caerphilly, Newport, Monmouthshire and Torfaen.

Ends

For more information contact Caroline Holmes at Working Word PR on 02920 646 840 or email caroline.holmes@workingwordpr.com

Review team to help get planning process ready for economic upturn announced by Minister

2009-08-27T09:03:00.000+01:00

Experts from business, the public and third sectors have been chosen to help review the planning application process to make sure it is ready to support sustainable economic recovery in Wales.

The independent group, who will steer a research project to look at good practice and the barriers to achieving timely, quality planning decisions, was announced by the Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing Jane Davidson today (26th August.)

Ms Davidson also named the company, following a procurement exercise, that will carry out the six-month research, the Cardiff based planning team of GVA Grimley Ltd.

The planning review group will provide technical advice and guidance for the project.

Ms Davidson said:

”We need to develop the most efficient planning decision procedures possible so that economic recovery is not held up.

“The members of the research steering group have very practical skills in the private, public and third sectors.

“They understand the complexities of the planning system from their different perspectives.

“We need to look for ways to simplify the system while achieving sound, sustainable quality decisions.”

The group is chaired by retired town planning consultant Michael Sant. Mr Sant has held a number of planning posts in local government and was Director of Planning services to the former Land Authority for Wales.

The members are:

Pip David, a member of the Advisory Panel on Standards for the Planning Inspectorate and she is a former Director of Pilkington Tiles with extensive experience in employment issues.

Non Rhys, Wales Policy Manager of the Federation of Small Businesses in Wales and also Chair of Business Wales.
Richard Price, Planning and Policy Advisor for the Home Builders Federation in Wales who has also worked in local government.

Dr Roisin Willmott, National Director of the Royal Town Planning Institute in Wales who has worked in local government and economic and planning consultancy.

David Rosser, Director of the CBI for Wales.
Leighton Jenkins, Assistant Director Policy CBI in Wales. Mr Rosser and Mr Jenkins will share membership and have experience in business and banking.

Elwyn Thomas, Chief Executive, Planning Aid Wales, who has held posts in local government, private consultancy and academia.

Mike Webb is a charted town planner and the senior planning officer for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds in Wales. He is a member of Wales Environment Link Planning Group and has wide local government experience;

The Welsh Local Government Association and The Planning Officers Society in Wales are represented by three serving planning officers: Pat Mears, of Caerphilly County Borough Council; Phil Williams, of Cardiff City Council; and, Eifion Bowen of Carmarthenshire County Council.

GLC back campaign to get empty homes back into use

2009-08-27T08:59:00.001+01:00

A campaign to get empty homes back into use has won the support of one of Wales's best known musical exports.

Newport rappers Goldie Lookin Chain are backing Shelter Cymru's Now is the Time campaign, which is calling for more support for councils to turn long-term empty properties back into homes for people.

The band's new single 'Everybody is a DJ' is released on 28 September. Fans can create their own mixes and even add new vocals using the Musicshake application. They can then sell their versions through Musicshake with all profits going to Shelter Cymru.

"Shelter Cymru is our chosen charity, not just because they seem to be the only charity willing to work with us, but because they are running their Now is the Time campaign to get derelict houses made habitable," said Eggsy.

"Shelter Cymru don't care about those things we said and did in the past, they just want to get roofs over the heads of people in Wales. So they too can do a remix, have a house party, and tear the place up just like the rest of the country will be doing."

Michelle Wales of Shelter Cymru said: "Whatever they say, working with GLC is always a pleasure, never a chore. However ridiculous the photo opportunity, they're up for it and we really appreciate the time they've given us over the years.

"The money also helps in our work to prevent homelessness, but it's the chance they give us to highlight serious issues in an entertaining - and often frankly bizarre - way that really matters."

For more information, visit GLC's website www.youknowsit.co.uk

Three quarters of young people worried about housing costs

2009-08-27T08:56:00.000+01:00

A lack of affordable housing has left many young people worried about how they will cope with the costs of renting or buying a home.

In a survey carried out by Shelter Cymru at the recent Wakestock festival in north Wales, 77 per cent of the young people questioned said that the cost of renting or buying a home was their biggest housing concern.

Respondents were also worried about the rising costs of bills, how they could afford a deposit, getting ripped off by unscrupulous landlords and the fear that high property costs coupled with few job opportunities would create a 'vicious circle of homelessness and unemployment'.

Worryingly, nearly one in 10 respondents - mostly aged 16-30 - also said they had experienced some form of homelessness over the previous 18 months.

Shelter Cymru director John Puzey said: "Wakestock was a really valuable opportunity for Shelter Cymru to talk to young people and find out more about their views on housing and homelessness.

"It is clear that the recession, together with a historic shortage of affordable homes, has left many young people uncertain about where and how they are going to live in the years to come.

"The fact that nearly a tenth of people we spoke to had experienced some form of homelessness is a source of great concern, especially as this seems to be the 'hidden homelessness' of sofa-surfing, which doesn't show up in official statistics.

"This is further evidence of the need for the Assembly Government to make a significant investment in affordable homes."

Wakestock is Europe's largest wakeboarding and music festival. Shelter Cymru was its nominated charity for 2009, raising more than £5,000 to support its work to prevent homelessness.

Notes
Shelter Cymru is Wales's people and homes charity, providing free specialist advice, advocacy and legal representation for people in housing difficulties across Wales. Details of local services can be accessed by ringing 0845 075 5005 or visiting www.sheltercymru.org.uk

Last year Shelter Cymru dealt with more than 22,000 housing problems and prevented homelessness in 86 per cent of the cases where it was faced.

Isallt residents walk for hospice

2009-08-27T08:46:00.001+01:00

Residents at a Supported Living scheme for homeless young people raised over £211.80 on a sponsored walk recently.
The young people who live at Isallt in Abbey Road, which is managed by Clwyd Alyn Housing Association, part of the Pennaf Housing Group, in partnership with Conwy County Borough Council, joint staff and friends to walk from The Pier in Llandudno to the Little Orme on July 29.
They collected donations along the way to top up sponsorship money and the final total will be split between the Isallt Residents’ Comfort Fund and St David’s Hospice.
Earlier this year the resident’s also held a coffee morning and open day to support the hospice and last week they also organised a community litter picking event on The Great Orme.which they now hope to make a regular event in connection with the Keep Wales Tidy Campaign.
“Many of the young residents at Isallt have had a difficult start in life for a variety of reasons. They really appreciate all the support they have received at the scheme and it’s brilliant to see them taking such a positive attitude to supporting others in the local community,” said Mr Kevin Hughes, Director of Care and Support Services for The Pennaf Group.

Picture:
From Left to right: Resident James Coulson; Gemma Levey from Conwy County Borough Council ; Paddy the Patterdale; Project Worker Maria Smith; Senior Project Linda Hughes; Project Worker Mark Pullin
Debbie Lambe, Supporting People Officer, Conwy County Borough Council

TWO WELSH HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS IN JOINT INITIATIVE

2009-08-27T08:44:00.000+01:00

Two Welsh Housing Associations have collaborated to tackle the problems of homelessness in Llandrindod Wells.

Earlier this year Mid-Wales Housing purchased Gwynfa on Lant Avenue in Llandrindod Wells from Powys County Council. The three storey property was previously used as office accommodation but had become unsuitable for use by the local authority. The Newtown-based Housing Association set about converting and refurbishing the property to become short stay temporary accommodation for up to six people.

The redevelopment saw Mid-Wales Housing link up with Trothwy Cyf which specialises in the ongoing management of supported housing schemes in Wales. Trothwy will use its specialist skills to look after the day to day running of the new centre which will be staffed on a 24 hour basis, seven days a week

As well as the provision of accommodation, floor there is a communal training area with a small kitchenette and community groups and partnership agencies are encouraged to make use of these facilities. The room holds around ten people and has internet access which is free of charge. A comprehensive CCTV system has been installed at the scheme as well as electronic access control which will ensure security.

Gwynfa is a period property located within the Llandrindod Wells Conservation Area and specifications for design and external building material used “like for like” materials in order to maintain a sympathetic appearance within the street. .

Mid-Wales Housing Chief Executive Shane Perkins said: “The redevelopment of Gwynfa has been completed using a collaborative approach drawing together a number of partners including Mid-Wales Housing, Powys County Council, Trothwy Cyf and service users.

“Until now homeless accommodation for different groups has been provided at another nearby property. The addition of the facilities offered by Gwynfa will allow the use of the alternative provision to be reviewed, as providing accommodation for both single and family groups there at the same time was not proving satisfactory.”

Richard Davies, Chief Executive of Trothwy said “The redevelopment of Gwynfa will make an important contribution to addressing homelessness in Llandrindod Wells and ensuring people receive the support they need”.

‘WWHA GAINS COVETED INVESTORS IN PEOPLE

2009-08-27T08:42:00.000+01:00

WALES & West Housing Association has become one of the first housing associations in Wales to be accredited with the coveted Investors in People leadership and management accolade.

WWHA, which has 9,000 properties across Wales providing affordable housing for more than 25,000 people, has been awarded both Investors In People status as well as the Leadership and Management Model.

Amongst the key strengths and points of good practise at WWHA highlighted by IIP Inspector Mavis Elliott-Smith were:

• Strong and effective leadership demonstrated by the Executives and Senior Managers, commented on by staff as role model behaviour
• Strong team ethos built around focus on organisation’s values and objectives
• Active and engaged Board
• Enthusiastic and customer-focused workforce

“To achieve Investors in People status is a huge tribute to every employee of Wales & West Housing Association,” said Chief Executive Anne Hinchey.

“To achieve the Leadership and Management Model as well is the proverbial icing on the cake, for there are very few organisations in Wales, indeed throughout the UK as a whole, who achieved this coveted standard.”

Two major initiatives recently introduced by WWHA, which were singled out for particular recognition were:

• The performance management of staff has been replaced by personal development plans which focus on people’s personal development opportunities linked to the WWHA’s overall aims and values.

• The customer service approach, which uses systems thinking methods, has seen great results and has achieved high levels of customer satisfaction. The approach cuts out unnecessary procedures and paperwork, and allows a high degree of empowerment to front line staff to make decisions directly with their customers.

Ends

For all media enquiries, please contact Sarah Manners on 029 20414033, Blackberry 07917 352375, or sarah.manners@wwha.co.uk

Free fun for all the family

2009-08-27T08:38:00.000+01:00

Top Free Running group Fluidity will be showing off their skills at a family fun day in Cwmbran. Bron Afon Community Housing is organising the event on Saturday 5 September at Llantarnam School.

The team, based in Torfaen Gymnastics Club on New Inn industrial estate, will be giving a demonstration of their amazing urban gymnastic talents. There will be ‘parkour’ demonstrations throughout the day and visitors will be able to try out the 15 metre long ‘air track’.

Sports coaching, DJ, face painting, the fire brigade and a climbing wall are just some of the other free attractions taking place.

Bron Afon is also holding its Annual General Meeting during the day and this will start at 11.30am. Only ‘members’ of Bron Afon can vote at the AGM. Tenants, homeowners and leaseholders in Torfaen can find out how to join as members now by calling 0800 111 42 42 or can join on the day. But anyone who joins before 28 August and confirms they are coming will enjoy a free BBQ and hog roast at the event.

Tamsin Stirling, Chair of the Bron Afon Board, said: “Fluidity is an incredibly talented team of young people. I think visitors of all ages will be impressed by their demonstration. The day is going to be a chance for people to find out what Bron Afon has been doing during its first year. Everyone is welcome. Anyone who lives in Torfaen can also join Bron Afon as a 'member' to get involved in our work - I hope that more people take up this opportunity.”

The fun starts at 11.30am.

You can see video clips of Fluidity in action by visiting www.youtube.com/asborn

Plas Bod Llwyd leads the way in supporting residents

2009-08-27T08:34:00.002+01:00

Plas Bod Llwyd, Clwyd Alyn Housing Association’s residential home in Newbridge near Wrexham, is helping to benchmark best practice in Wales in supporting Older People who have dementia.

Staff and residents at the home recently contributed to a specialist report commissioned by the Care Council for Wales called: “Good Practice in Relation to Working with Older People Experiencing Dementia.”
In the report Plas Bod Llwyd Manager Cath Pierce outlines the home’s commitment to taking a person centred rather than a task centred approach to supporting those with dementia, developing a culture within the home which encourages staff to slow down and spend more individual time with residents.

The study involved staff regularly spending time with residents helping them build up a portfolio of their life history. 25 residents took part together with nine relatives. 13 of the residents involved had been diagnosed with either dementia or significant short term memory problems.
The report particularly notes how all staff are involved – not just the care team. Domestic, kitchen and maintenance staff all contributed with all staff allocated time each day to spend with residents.

“Taking an individual approach, where we work together to listen to the residents has been beneficial to staff as well as to the residents themselves, giving a greater understanding of the ageing process,” said Cath.

In the feedback from staff included in the report comments include the following:
• “I don’t go home so much now feeling upset by not being able to change a lot for a resident. I know I make a difference even though small.”
• It teaches you that you have so much more to give that you realise and it costs nothing.
• “I enjoy my work more now, feel it’s a better atmosphere. I feel I have learnt a lot and feel more valued as a carer.”

One client who took part in the study was 86 year old Marion Ward who first came to live at Plas Bod Llwyd in 2006.
“Even though the care here has been excellent ever since I arrived, over the past 6 months I have seen a change in how the staff see us and how they take interest in what myself and others have to say,” said Mrs Ward.
“I feel the staff really care about me as a person – they really see the person I am, not just the elderly lady who needs help with everyday things such as help to get washed and dressed.
“I feel I can talk about things which are personal to me, such as losing my father in 1934 in the Gresford pit disaster and my mother having to work all sorts of jobs to make ends meet.
“It has taken me a lot of years to talk about this as I was only 12 at the time. People don’t always realise or understand the things us elderly people have gone through over the years, or the experiences we have learned along life’s path,” Mrs Ward added.

Sioned Wyn Williams, Head of Development and Innovation for the Care Council for Wales said the report, which is available bilingually on their website, would help to benchmark care standards in the sector: “I would like to thank the staff, service users and carers that contributed to the project. The result is an extremely valuable report which I hope we will all be able to draw on in our various roles,” she said.

Photo:

Plas Bod Llwyd Residential Home Manager Mrs Cath Pierce

Hafod Housing Host the Launch of the Welsh Housing Debt Helpline

2009-08-27T08:27:00.002+01:00

Dr Brian Gibbons AM, Minister for Social justice and Local Government, and Jocelyn Davies AM, Deputy Minister for Housing formally launched the new Housing Debt Helpline at Hafod’s Area Office in St Mellons on 14 July.

The helpline will provide free and impartial advice from experienced debt counsellors to anyone with mortgage or rent arrears, or threatened with repossession or eviction by private and social landlords and face losing their homes. The aim is to keep roofs over peoples’ heads wherever possible.

The helpline is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government with support from the UK’s leading debt charity, Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS), which will operate the helpline, and the Wales Co-operative Centre which will ensure awareness of its availability among those who need it. Anyone living in Wales can access the service by ringing 0800 107 1340.

Hafod’s Managing Director said at the launch “Hafod has, for many years, recognised the importance of tackling debt and worked on a number of innovative solutions to try and reduce the impact of this problem for our residents.
It is easy to think of debt as a monetary problem but for those suffering with debt problems the impacts are far reaching including; the risk of homelessness, the stress debt causes, the health problems that it can cause, the risk of family break up, the temptation to look at illegal methods to get money and the general misery of trying to hold off creditors whilst everyone demands that their bills are paid.
We believe that the National Housing Debt Helpline will be another useful tool in tackling this terrible blight on our society.”

The launch was well attended by representatives from WAG, CCCS, the local credit union, local school pupils, residents and representatives from other local Associations. Launching the National Housing Debt Helpline in the St Mellons area seemed a fitting reminder that rising debt problems were having a negative impact on tenants’ lives.

Cwmbran ASB Award.

2009-08-27T08:23:00.001+01:00

Hafod Housing Association staff and tenants who work in partnership with the Cwmbran Neighbourhood Policing Team were overjoyed at the team being recently awarded national recognition by the Home Office and National Policing Improvement Agency for their work in Thornhill, Cwmbran.

The Cwmbran project is only one of 12 sites to receive exemplar status within the UK and is the sole recipient within Wales. It covers mixed tenure estates managed by 3 housing associations which include Hafod Housing Association.

Hafod’s Anti-Social Behaviour Co-ordinator Liz Magness said “We are extremely proud of the Associations prominent proactive work with local residents. We will continue to ensure the association is committed to working collaboratively with other agencies in ensuring Anti-Social Behaviour throughout the area is reduced”

Central to Hafod’s approach has been close engagement with local residents. The work undertaken will be showcased nationally by Gill Kendal, secretary to Hafod Housing Associations Tenants and Residents Association.

Community spirit thrives as development celebrates 25th anniversary

2009-08-27T07:53:00.000+01:00

Residents at Tai Cymdogaeth’s sheltered housing scheme in Gorseinon, Swansea are living proof that community spirit is still alive and kicking as the development celebrated its 25th anniversary with a party last week(FRIDAY 14TH AUGUST).
Tai Cymdogaeth, part of the Gwalia group, manages and provides a wide range of housing including schemes for older people such as Einon Court.

Joining in the fun were the 52 residents who make up the Einon Court community - which included four residents who have lived there ever since it opened.
Myrtle Shepherd,88, Mair Grayson, 94, Doris Hapgood, 85, and Iris Thomas, 91, all moved into the development in South View, Gorseinon in 1984 and have lived there happily since.

The birthday party – organised by the residents with the help of Tai Cymdogaeth staff and the Community Chest fund– saw residents celebrate the successful community development and reminisce of the fun times had at Einon Court since its opening.
Sue Harrison, Service Manager at the housing development, who has worked at Einon Court for the last 17 years, said the community spirit at Einon Court was what had made the development such a happy place to live and work in.

“Einon Court has been a very happy home for many over the last 25 years, and the fact that several of our residents who moved in to the development in1984 are still living with us today is testament to this.”

For further information please contact Cath Harris on charris@effcom.co.uk 01792 484 464 / 029 2064 6860/ 07890 953 402

First Choice Housing Association continues to grow through recession

2009-08-17T15:46:00.002+01:00

Not-for-profit organisation, First Choice Housing Association, bucks the trend and continues to expand despite the recession, and announces five key appointments.
Penarth-based First Choice, Wales’s only housing association specialising in accommodation for people with learning disabilities, is proving that now is a good a time as any to appoint fresh talent.

Donna Jones from Barry has joined as strategic performance and HR manager. Donna will be responsible for facilitating a well-run and efficient human resource department, implementing a more robust performance management system and ensuring best practice in the Governance of the association.

Katherine Howells from Cwmbran has taken up her new role as strategic housing manager where she will be responsible for ensuring that First Choice meets best practice and relevant legislation relating to housing management.
Andrew Carbis from the Rhondda has been appointed as development officer, overseeing development schemes from the concept stage right through to the practical completion.
Katherine and Andrew will also be responsible for taking forward new initiatives such as Shared Ownership for people with learning disabilities and leasehold schemes.

Philip Green from Cardiff has been appointed technical officer. His role involves carrying out pre and post inspections of the association’s properties and ensuring that all maintenance work carried out meets the necessary high standards.
Finally, Ceri Knight from Cardiff has been appointed as policy, performance and communications officer. Her role involves overseeing the communications strategy to promote the association to external partners and monitoring the association’s performance, ensuring it meets regulations and provides the best possible service to its tenants and local authorities.

Chief executive at First Choice, Ansley Workman said:, “These recent appointments are important for many reasons. Not only will their skills and expertise serve to further strengthen our team and provide our tenants with the best quality service but the very fact we are making five key appointments is testament to our success and continued growth in spite of the current economic climate.”

For more information about First Choice Housing Association please call (029) 20703758 or visit www.firstchoicehousing.co.uk
Picture Caption: First Choice’s expanding team: (L-R Phillip Green, Katherine Howells, Donna Jones, Andrew Carbis, Ceri Knight)

£500 a week in the pockets of older people

2009-08-14T14:35:00.000+01:00

Five older people in Torfaen are a total of £571 a week better off after being helped to claim money they were entitled to by their Sheltered Housing Officer.

Tina Morgan, Sheltered Housing Officer for Bron Afon Community Housing, approached the five tenants and gave them support to complete the forms and check with the various government agencies.

She said: “We received training from Community Housing Cymru on their ‘Benefits and Older People’ course. It showed us the importance of making sure that individuals claim what they are entitled to and on how to approach tenants to make sure they were getting all their benefits. The training has highlighted that many tenants are unaware of their entitlement. It helps us point them in the right direction to check that they are getting the money they deserve. The various government agencies can quickly check that someone is getting all their benefits but the individual has to claim. That is where we have been able to help. The nice thing is that these tenants have spoken to two of their friends who have also been underpaid and they too are now receiving the extra money. The tenants and their families are thrilled.”

One tenant is getting £57 a week, another is getting an extra £88 a week and the other three are getting an extra £142 extra a week.

By Royal Appointment - Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall visit Bridgend

2009-08-14T11:45:00.002+01:00

Young People from Hafod Housing Association’s Yellow Wales project were invited along to meet Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall during their recent visit to EcoDysgu holistic education centre based in Bridgend.

The Prince was especially interested in the work of Hafod’s Yellow Wales Project and the work undertaken by the young people, with a particular interest in the work being undertaken to achieve their Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

Hafod’s Yellow Wales Development Manager Janice Cowan said “Our aim is to promote youth enterprise and lifelong learning opportunities to young people in Bridgend. We were pleased that so many of our young people were given the opportunity to meet with the Prince and Duchess. The young people haven’t stopped talking about their experience. They were overjoyed that the Prince and Duchess took so much of their time to talk about the work of Hafod’s Yellow Wales Project and the positive impact that the project is having on their lives”

Hafod Housing Tenant becomes Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil

2009-08-14T11:43:00.001+01:00

Hafod Housing Association was overjoyed when one of its tenants was given the great honour of becoming Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil.

Glenn Price of Fir Tree Drive, Merthyr Tydfil has been a tenant of Hafod Housing Association for the past 27 years and has been a committed councillor and community activist for the past 5 years.

Hafod Housing Association Service Improvement Co-ordinator Chris Davies said “The Association is extremely proud that Glenn has received this great honour. Once again, the Association the has been inspired by the great achievements of one of our Tenants”

Dog Attacks Housing Officer

2009-08-11T12:09:00.001+01:00

A tenant has been banned from keeping a dog in their home in Blaenavon after the dog attacked a member of staff from Bron Afon Community Housing. The Community Housing Officer received 30 stitches in her face when she was attacked by the dog whilst visiting the tenant’s home on 17 June.

Bron Afon went to Pontypool County Court and successfully applied for a 12 month injunction that means the tenant can’t:

Keep any dogs at the property

Allow or encourage any dog into the property

Allow or encourage any dog into the area around the property

Act in a way that would breach her Assured Tenancy

Duncan Forbes, Chief Executive of Bron Afon, said: “As the attack happened in the owner’s home the police could not take any action but that did not stop us from going to court. The vast majority of dog owners are responsible but it is their responsibility to make sure their dog does not cause a danger to others. In this case the owner has had to give away not only the dog who bit our member of staff, but also two other dogs that she owned. This demonstrates that we will take action to protect staff and other tenants where necessary.

“We would like to remind dog owners that if we are working in their home they must keep their dog under control and ensure it does not pose a danger. It would be really helpful if dogs are locked away when we are carrying out work.”

If anyone is concerned about a dangerous dog in a public area they should contact the police. Stray dogs that are causing a problem can be reported to Torfaen Council’s animal warden on 01633 648489.

PR and Communication Conference

2009-08-05T15:23:00.004+01:00

Preparations for the PR and Communication conference are in full swing - so be sure to keep free the 17th and 18th of September. The conference, which will be held in the Metropole hotel, Llandrindod Wells, will be opened by Jackie Brock Doyle, Head of Communications for the Olympics 2012. Plenery sessions will include how to build a strong brand image, communicating through change, how to get your creative juices flowing and communicating the implications of the Essex Review.
Some of the workshops will include personal development, internal communications, new media, timebanking, a session from the RNIB on accessibility and Media awareness. The event will be charied by Robin Fletcher, former editor of the South Wales Echo. For further details contact Edwina O'Hart, PR officer. edwina-ohart@chcymru.org.uk or 02920557414

First Minister Rhodri Morgan officially hails new RHA hq as a stepping stone to a bigger future

2009-08-05T08:55:00.002+01:00

The First Minister has officially opened Rhondda Housing Association’s new purpose built headquarters in the heart of Tonypandy as it celebrates its 30-year anniversary.

The First Minister was the guest of honour at the celebration on Compton Road hosted by Rhondda Housing Association (RHA) Chief Executive, Lesley Davies.

50 guests attended the special reception to mark the office opening and 30 years of operation in Rhondda Cynon Taff. The guest list was comprised of tenants and residents, and local businesses and key partners with whom the Association works, together with the Association’s staff and RHA voluntary board members. Together they marked the contribution the Association has made in providing high quality housing, support and regeneration solutions to the people and communities within RCT.

Over the years, the Association has invested over £70m in the borough, built over 1,400 homes, and achieved many awards including the 2009 UK Business in the Community Award for Excellence in Active Communities.

Mr Morgan praised the work that RHA has done across the region: “The Association has built over 1,400 quality affordable homes throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf since its inception and I am pleased to see this process continuing to provide much needed quality homes for local people. Building a new headquarters is not a reward for what they have done but a stepping stone towards an even more dynamic future. Resting on its laurels is not an option. Housing Associations are there to meet the needs of its service users present and future. I wish the Association all the best for the next 30 years.”

The five storey 12,000 sq ft premises on the site of the former post office building accommodates over 70 staff, bringing two previous sites at Dunraven Street and Llwynypia Enterprise Centre into one.

The new offices will also provide community training facilities as well as a dedicated community resource room that can be used by tenants and local groups. These facilities will enable Rhondda Housing Association to deliver education and training effectively to the community.

Lesley Davies, Chief Executive of Rhondda Housing Association, said: “By any measure, what the Association has achieved in its first 30 years is impressive. I have worked at the Association for over 14 years (previously as Director of Finance) and I have seen it go from strength to strength. Tenants, staff and board members have worked very hard to create something special – an organisation which really does change lives.”

“Our move to a new purpose built headquarter office is the start of an exciting new chapter for Rhondda Housing Association and for our customers, stakeholders and partners. With this new building, we will be able to increase the support and solutions we provide to the borough helping to tackle poverty, promote sustainability and regenerate our community. The building also encompasses IT, training and meeting room facilities for use by community groups as well as our tenants.”

John Andrews, Chair, said: “The success of the Association has been a combination of excellent committed staff, a value base which is shared by the board and tenants who want to be part of making decisions which affect their lives. We are a great deal more than a Housing Association, and we very much look forward to continuing to work with our partners and tenants to achieve the goal of sustainable communities.”

Helping residents with their careers

2009-07-17T09:52:00.001+01:00

Melin Homes is helping residents achieve their dream careers thanks to its education bursary programme.

Melin’s education bursary provides up to £3,000 per year to help residents pursue further education goals and improve their career prospects. One person who has benefited is Suz Crawford from Hillside, Abergavenny.

Thanks to a our education bursary fund and a little self-determination, Suz has landed her dream job – she is now the new Youth and Community Coordinator for Phillipstown Residents’ Association. Only a few years ago though, Suz never thought this would be possible.

Back in 2001, Suz started helping out with the Community Development activities that Melin organised on her Hillside estate. She helped arrange sports and arts and crafts activities for the young people, aged between 2 and 20, and found that she really enjoyed taking part. Suz also received lots of positive comments from the youngsters and Melin’s Officers about how good she was.

Suz said: “I remember thinking to myself how great it would be to get paid for the work that I was doing with the young people and their communities. I found out that you could study for a Youth and Community work degree but, as I left school with no qualifications and I knew how expensive degrees were, I didn’t think I’d be able to do it.”

However, Suz discovered that Melin’s education bursary could help her fund a degree and decided to apply for the programme. She was awarded £1,000. Suz said: “I really couldn’t believe it when I found out I was successful! Now, four years later, here I am with a brand new job. I’m so grateful to Melin for helping me get to where I am today.”

Alan Hughes, one of Melin’s Community Development Officers, worked with Suz on many occasions when she helped out with the housing association’s community development activities. He said: “I’m so proud of Suz. From the first time I saw her working with the young people I knew she was capable of making a positive difference to their lives and communities. It’s great being able to witness the benefits that our education bursary can present to individuals like Suz first-hand.”

Melin’s education bursary has helped previous recipients pay course fees, buy books and computers, and fund travel expenses to or from universities and colleges. Many of the recipients are returning to education for the first time since leaving school, some of them having left with few or no qualifications. For more information, please contact Melin on 08453 101102.

Private Finance must increase to reach target of 6500 affordable homes.

2009-07-03T14:46:00.005+01:00

Representatives from CHC at the Sumitt with the First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, Minister for Finance, Andrew Davies and Sue Essex, Author the Essex Report.

The First Minister will today chair a meeting between Community Housing Cymru, representatives from the major banks and building societies and the Welsh Assembly Government. The aim of the meeting is to ensure the continuity of private funds into social housing in Wales if the One Wales target of 6,500 affordable homes is to be met by 2011.

Earlier in the year, a number of Housing associations voiced their concerns that the increased price of funds, and lending behaviour in the wake of the credit crunch was threatening their future investment plans, in terms of both social housing and value added activities including regeneration. The One Wales Government have succeeded in greatly increasing the level of public sector investment in social housing in Wales and public investment in 2009/10 has increased by approximately 60 per cent through a combination of actual social housing grant (SHG), the bringing forward of SHG investment from 2010/11 and the provision of £42m of Strategic Capital Investment funding over 2008/09-10/11.

However in the wake of the international financial crisis, access to affordable private finance has been increasingly challenging as the cost of borrowing rises despite massive interest rate cuts. Pressure on the banking system to rebuild capital has led additional pressure on the costs of finance for social housing providers in Wales so in this context Community Housing Cymru have been working with the Housing Finance Corporation (THFC) to boost European Investment Bank lending in Wales whilst the Principality Building Society and the Welsh Assembly Government have also commissioned research to look at the feasibility of innovation in the form of a Welsh Housing Bond.

Nick Bennett, Chief Executive of Community Housing Cymru said: "The objective of the summit is to ensure the continuity of private funds into social housing in Wales. It’s was announced yesterday that the sector is on target to meet the One Wales objective of 6,500 homes by 2011. This will only be achieved through further investment and if WAG, Community Housing Cymru and the private lenders work together.

The Essex Review of affordable housing in Wales has put a much greater emphasis on collaboration and one specific recommendation related to the potential additional European Investment Bank lending in Wales, all of which would help deliver the One Wales target."

Ian Williams, chair of CHC added: "Another recommendation of the Essex Review was to explore the creation of a Welsh Housing Bond, something that CHC would welcome provided that it can ensure that we can do more with less at a time when public purse strings have been tightened. The summit is a chance to re-affirm that housing is a priority for WAG, that lenders will continue to make adequate resources available and that associations will continue to do more to meet need."

The First Minister said, “The Welsh Assembly Government has been working hard to combat the impacts of the recession on the social housing environment, and levels of public sector investment in social housing have seen a marked increased. Investment in 2009/10 has increased by approximately 60% this year.

This increased level of public sector investment in social housing is also helping the Welsh Assembly Government meet the One Wales target of an additional 6,500 affordable homes across Wales. Today’s summit comes at a time when the policies governing social housing provision in Wales are currently under reform. The aims of the proposed changes to the sector will equip the social housing environment with a system of governance and financial regulation that will aid against future financial challenges.”

Peter Hughes, Head of Commercial Lending for the Principality welcomed the meeting and confirmed the commitment and engagement of lenders in the challenge to lever in private sector funding to support the One Wales objective. He added: "The Principality have played a very full part in all of the current initiatives pre and post Essex. Despite however the very testing market conditions there have been some notable successes - witness the funding of the stock transfers at Newport and Merthyr, both in the very teeth of the credit crunch.

This demonstrated that "where there was a will there was a way". Although higher funding costs pose some challenges for Housing Associations the overall cost of credit has broadly remained unchanged in the current low interest rate environment and it is the availability of credit rather than its cost which is the key. In this respect whilst credit remains in short supply as banks rebuild their balance sheets there are some signs that conditions are thawing slightly, particularly to this sector - with sentiment improving and competition re-emerging.

Caerphilly families benefit from Welsh Assembly Government housing investment

2009-07-03T14:42:00.003+01:00

One of Wales’ first developments to benefit from Strategic Capital Investment Funding (SCIF) received a visit from Jocelyn Davies AM, Deputy Minister for Housing where she met one of the first residents to move into the new development in Trinant near Caerphilly.

A total of £42m of SCIF funding has been allocated to Welsh Housing Associations in a bid to increase the provision of affordable housing across Wales and to help stabilise an unsettled property market.
Fairlake, the property development arm of the Newport-based Seren Group, used £900,000 of SCIF funding to buy 14 two and three bedroom houses at the Pen-y-Mynydd development, built by Highfield Homes, in order to significantly increasing the amount of affordable housing in the area.

Charter Housing, also part of the Seren Group, will own and manage the properties and has worked closely with Caerphilly County Borough Council and local residents to develop a community letting model which seeks to deliver sustainable, stable communities in which people want to live.
Following a tour of the development Jocelyn Davies said, “I am delighted to be able to visit the tenants of these fantastic new homes and see how our investment is benefitting families.

“One of the aims of our investment was to help the most vulnerable families in Wales to get good quality affordable housing. It has also provided a cash flow to the construction industry, keeping people in work and supporting jobs.”
Jade Roach and her family were one of the first tenants to move into Pen-y-Mynydd and are delighted with their new home. Jade said “In our previous rental accommodation we weren’t able to do our own decorating and now we really feel like we can make this home our own.

“Our daughter is over the moon with the outside space we have here and has already talked us into buying her a bouncy castle for the garden! We really couldn’t be more delighted with both Charter Housing and Fairlake for all the help they’ve given us.”
Bob Hutchings, chair of the Seren Group, said: "We are delighted to be able to see first-hand the invaluable effect the Welsh Assembly Government’s funding has had on the local area. Both Fairlake and Charter are committed to investing in sustainable communities and development of the community lettings model has helped us ensure that the new homes go to deserving local people like Jade and her family”.

CCBC cabinet member Cllr Lyn Ackerman said: "This is an excellent way for us to work in partnership to provide more affordable homes. This scheme has been welcomed by the community and feedback from new tenants has been very positive."

Fairlake’s 1000th customer steps onto the property ladder

2009-07-03T14:41:00.000+01:00

A Newport-based housing organisation this week celebrated reaching its 1000th customer milestone by releasing 1000 balloons at the brand new Foxcombe development, in Duffryn, built by Barratt Homes

Local couple Alex Leach, 23 and Laura Gardner, 25 and their eighteen-month-old son Jack, were Fairlake’s delighted 1000th customers.

Both originally from Newport, Alex has just completed a degree in Sports Science at UWIC and is hoping to undertake a Masters degree in the subject next term. He and full-time home carer Laura will be getting married in a couple of weeks.

Alex said: “We’ve been so busy this year with organising our wedding on top of spending time with our son Jack and are delighted with how well things have been managed. The apartment is really spacious and the appliances are very modern so we couldn’t have asked for more. We wouldn’t have been able to get a foot on the property ladder without the home ownership scheme.”

In response to the downturn in the property market Fairlake, part of the Seren Group, continue to assist both first-time buyers and those looking to re-enter the property market through schemes such as Newport City Living, operated in partnership with Newport City Council.

Laura said: “We're very happy here, it's so quiet and the development is lovely. I know it's a safe area where Jack can play when he's older and the neighbours are very friendly too.”

Alex, who is currently waiting for his results from UWIC, added: “Fairlake have been so helpful, I was studying full time and Laura was looking after Jack while working part time and we couldn't have done this without their support”.

With inflated house prices still preventing lots of prospective purchasers from being able to buy their own home, a lack of affordable homes continues to be a real problem, something Newport City Living is committed to addressing.

The event was commemorated with a celebratory balloon launch in the sunshine and refreshments back at Alex and Laura’s new home.

Darrell Bolton, director at Fairlake , said: “This is an important milestone for Fairlake, which wouldn't have been possible without our partnerships with local authorities and developers such as Barratt. It's fantastic that we can celebrate with Alex, Laura and Jack.”

Newport City Living is designed to help those people who are unable to buy a property on the open market outright. Through the scheme, purchasers usually pay only up to 70% share of a property.

Councillor Richard White said “The City Council wish to congratulate Fairlake for the provision of their 1000th property through their scheme which assists customers onto the homeownership ladder. We also want to extend our very best wishes to Laura, Alex and Jack in their new home, and hope they will be very happy there”.

Fairlake continue to work closely with both local authority partners and national house builders to increase the amount of affordable housing in the area, and the good news is that lots more will be available in the near future.

Fairlake also operate across Caerphilly, Torfaen and Monmouthshire. To find out more contact the Home Ownership Team on 01633 233876

UWHA welcome four new trainees to site today, including Kirsty our first female trainee Bricklayer.

2009-07-02T15:01:00.003+01:00

Log on United Welsh's Community Investment blog: to watch a video showing the first day for four new trainees at a United Welsh Housing Development site at Cwm Calon Ystrad mynach. The trainees were all a little nervous but also excited. After recieving an induction to health and safety on site and recieving their PPE and new tool kits the trainees set off to buddy up and undertake their training. The video also shows Kirsty UWHA first female bricklayer, Kirsty met with the crew at Cwm Calon but will be working on a site in Tredegar (Stable lane), Kirsty discribes her nerves but has a great attitude and we wish her luck. Clare Hallett will be over seeing all the trainees and will be keeping you up to date with their progress.

Welsh Assembly Government on course to hit housing target

2009-07-02T13:30:00.000+01:00

Early figures suggest the number of homes, delivered by Housing Associations over the last two years, is 3,252. This is based on independent figures provided the Welsh Economic Research Unit (WERU).

Ms Davies also announced the extension of energy efficiency grants for first time buyers when she visited two new homeowners in Wrexham who have benefitted from the grant - another ‘One Wales’ commitment.

The visit was part of 24 special events to mark the half way point of the ‘One Wales’ programme.

Ms Davies said:

"I am delighted to announce that we are on track to meet our target of creating 6,500 additional affordable homes in this Assembly term.

"This is a particularly impressive achievement given the current economic conditions. We have been committed to meet these targets and have put more financial support into housing. It is also a great achievement by Housing Associations who have committed their own resources at a time when borrowing is more expensive and difficult to obtain.

"In December 2008, we announced £42 million extra funding to be spent over three financial years to boost the creation of affordable housing in Wales. This gave a vital stimulus to the construction industry and is helping us to meet our ambitious target."

Nick Bennett, Chief Executive of Community Housing Cymru said:

"Housing Associations have made a significant contribution to achieving more social housing in Wales over the past two years, producing more that 1300 units with no grant. However, we warned that the target would not be reached without increased public investment, and have been delighted to see the Assembly Government increase investment and also review regulatory arrangements so that we can all focus on more outcomes at a time of great need."

Pilot schemes to provide energy efficiency grants to first time buyers are to be extended to include all housing renewal areas in Wales for 2009-2010. Ms Davies also announced the breakdown of money to each Local Authority that made a bid for the resources.

Carl Bateman and Emma Williams bought their house in 2007 and have received a grant to repair their central heating and to install a new window to make their house more energy efficient.

Ms Davies added:

"It’s great to see the difference our ‘One Wales’ commitments are having on people across Wales."

Mr Bateman said:

"The grant helped us a lot in the savings we have been able to make, we wouldn't have any heating if it wasn't for the help we received"

David Gets a Helping Hand

2009-07-02T11:29:00.003+01:00

David Young recently carried out his work experience with the help of Newport City Homes (NCH).

David has been attending college training to be gas fitter. He needed work experience to complete his course and NCH were happy to offer David the experience he required.

His work portfolio required on the job training with an experienced Gas Safe Registered installer and this was arranged with David spending six weeks working alongside one of NCH’s experience gas fitters.

David developed and acquired new skills in gas servicing and central heating repair work and NCH also made arrangements for David to work with Tim O’Brien Heating, a local heating contractor to understand the contractor’s perspective.

During his final week of placement, David helped with the installation of new boilers in NCH Residents’ homes as part of its Improvement Programme.

David told us “ " I am grateful for NCH for all their help in arranging the work experience, I now feel ready for my final Gas assessment which on completion I will hopefully gain full time employment in the Gas industry"

Nick Hampshire, Director of Assets & Investment said “NCH have been impressed with David’s commitment to our aims of delivering excellent customer service and wish him well in completing his course”.
Ends

Further Information:
Newport City Homes (NCH) is a not-for-profit Registered Social Housing Landlord whose major focus is on its tenants.
NCH came into existence on 9th March 2009, after Newport City Council transferred its housing stock to the new organisation, the first urban stock transfer to take place in Wales.

Contact: Joanna Baldwin, Communications & Governance Manager, Tel: 01633 381111 or e-mail joanna.baldwin@newport.gov.uk

“On your (new) bike!” says Melin Homes

2009-06-22T09:27:00.003+01:00

Melin Homes recently named a new recipient of its community grant scheme.

The housing association recently presented Abergavenny Road Club (RC) with a brand new racing bike thanks to its Jump fund scheme.

Abergavenny RC has been running weekly bike sessions on the Red Gra at King Henry VIII School for the past six months. A number of younger residents from Melin’s Hillside estate have taken part and shown real talent. Some of the youngsters, aged between 7 and 15, have even competed in prestigious biking competitions. However, as the youngsters own bikes aren’t really suitable for proper racing use, the club decided to apply to Melin’s Jump fund to buy a new racing bike.

Abergavenny RC now has an Islabikes Beinn 26 – one of the best bikes around for youngsters into racing. All members of the club can practice on it and will be able to use it at future competitions as it has adjustable features which can accommodate riders of different heights and ages.

Rider Llewellyn Price, age 8, said: “The bike’s great. I love taking part in all the competitions with the club, and I can’t wait to use this bike at my next one! It looks really good too.”

John Ford, Abergavenny RC’s Youth Coach, said: “This bike will make such a difference to the club. I know it will increase the confidence of the youngsters who take part in competitions regularly because it’s such a high-quality bike and it’s also highly regarded in the industry. The whole club is incredibly grateful to Melin’s for its fantastic gift. On behalf of everyone, I would like to say thank you.”

Melin’s Jump fund provides grants of up to £250 for groups and organisations that benefit its residents and the communities in which it operates. It can sponsor a wide range of projects including sport and youth clubs, environmental improvement schemes and those for social gain.

New housing powers sought to protect social housing and rights of tenants

2009-06-17T13:58:00.001+01:00

Commenting on the LCO, Nick Bennett, Chief Executive said:

'We hope that any future Housing LCO will be holistic in nature and can be used to draw down wider powers to Wales in the field of affordable housing, that will in turn lead to an increase in supply. A core principle of good governance is clarity about who does what, and it is evident that in the field of social housing, legislative arrangements are less than clear. The voluntary housing sector has spent a substantial amount of resource on this LCO through consultation and submission of evidence and these resources have been largely wasted. It should also be noted that the Right to Buy has effectively been suspended in recent times by the lack of mortgage lending from banks and building societies, whilst the constitutional ping-pong has continued between Cardiff Bay and Westminster'.

From the Welsh Assembly Government

The Welsh Assembly Government today (Tuesday) announced that it was going to seek new, more wide ranging powers to modernise social housing.

Ensuring better quality and more affordable housing remains a top priority for the Welsh Assembly Government and we have undertaken a thorough review of policies over the past two years. This fresh thinking is set out in the draft National Housing Strategy, Supporting People Strategy and Homelessness plans as well as our work with partners to implement the Essex Review. All of these will be complete and published in the autumn.

These strategies address the challenges facing housing through the current economic climate, including the tightening public purse, but also challenges such as climate change which we will face over the long term.

We are now seeking powers so that the Welsh Assembly Government has the legislative and regulatory tools to deliver our vision, and to respond innovatively to future policy challenges.

The new housing Legislative Competence Order will incorporate the aims of the Affordable Housing LCO to preserve social housing stock, which is being withdrawn from Parliament.

It will seek to modernise the system, meet tenants aspirations for home equity ownership and reform the Right to Buy scheme

Deputy Minister for Housing Jocelyn Davies said:

"There have been some considerable developments in housing since 2007, not least the economic downturn which has impacted on the availability of homes and mortgages.

"Work is already underway to seek additional powers so that we’re able to deliver our wider housing ambitions and it makes sense to incorporate our commitments within the previous LCO into one wide-ranging LCO.

"Since 2007 we have done some considerable work in the area of affordable housing.

"We must look at how we can preserve and protect social housing for tenants now and in the future for the people of Wales.

"We now need powers to deliver social housing that takes on board the Essex Report and our strategies which cover national housing, homelessness and supported housing."

The Assembly Government needs to address the considerable developments in housing to address the impact of the recession as well as the longer term problems of access to affordable housing and climate change.

The previous LCO looked only at the disposal of land by social landlords but this new LCO will look at much more: supported housing, the recommendations of the Essex Review and powers over tenancy law.

Housing remains a top priority for the Assembly Government and Ministers and officials look forward to working with the Secretary of State for Wales, who has said he will work with the Assembly Government to deliver this.

Thank You

2009-06-16T13:38:00.004+01:00

A big thank you to all who sponsored Nick for today's 'Stuck at Sea' event. Nick managed to avoid walking the plank by raising over £800 for Wales' Leading children's charily, Action for Children.
More photos to follow shortly...

United Welsh Staff complete 3 Peaks Challenge ..

2009-06-16T07:49:00.005+01:00

4 Teams from United Welsh completed the gruelling Welsh 3 Peaks Challenge on Sat 13th June. Starting out at 4 am and finshing at 7.30 pm 16 walkers and 3 support crew dashed from Snowdon to Cader Idris and finally to Penyfan.

Steve Cranston, Head of Community Investment said: "It really was a challenging long day - I've not put my body through anything like it! Special thanks has to go out to our drivers and cooks - Kieron, Paul and Peter - absolutely vital support to literally keep the show on the road."

To see a video and photos from the challenge log onto United Welsh's blog:
http://investuwha.blogspot.com/2009/06/welsh-3-peaks-challenge-for-tyhafan.html

Well done to all!

Four days til Nick walks the plank! Can you help with his ransom?

2009-06-12T15:10:00.003+01:00

On Tuesday 16 June, Chief Executive of Community Housing Cymru, Nick Bennett, will be held captive off the coast of Swansea and will be made walk the plank unless he raises £800.

Leading children’s charity, Action for Children, will be taking up to 10 VIP’s … ‘Very Important Prisoners’ … captive for it’s first ‘Stuck at Sea’ adventure aboard the magnificent Challenge Wales 72ft yacht, to support the charity’s work with children and young people.

Nick commented: "Please donate towards the £800 ransom to secure my safe return from sea and to escape walking the plank! You can donate through Justgiving - it's quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me and Action for Children gets your money faster. If you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation. So please sponsor me now ..... I can't swim!!"

You can help Nick raise his ransom by logging onto the Just Giving website www.justgiving.com/nickbennettstuckatsea or by clicking here

TAI ERYRI IS WELSH LEADER ON ECO HOMES

2009-06-09T10:28:00.000+01:00

An award-winning £900,000 sustainable homes scheme in Bangor has been officially launched by Jane Davidson, the Welsh Assembly Government Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing.

Cymdeithas Tai Eryri’s scheme is a first for Wales.
The four low-carbon homes at Bangor’s Ffordd Eithinog will house Cymdeithas Tai Eryri tenants. The properties have attained Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes – the first scheme by a Welsh housing association to do so. Even now, 2 years after the scheme was first conceived, the Assembly Government grant requirement is only Level 3.

The homes’ innovative design features create a 68% decrease in the level of CO2 emissions compared to traditionally-built houses. Most of the scheme’s utilities are provided by sustainable means such as ground source heat pumps, solar panels, photo voltaic panels and rainwater harvesting systems.

The scheme has already achieved national acclaim, being recognised as the ‘Best Quality Sustainable Design’ at the Local Authority Building Control (LABC) New Home Warranty Awards for Excellence.

Cymdeithas Tai Eryri Chief Executive Walis George, said: “There is no legal requirement on us to attain such high standards in our commitment to sustainability. We do, however, feel that we have a certain responsibility as a charitable housing association and social landlord to innovate in this respect so that sustainability considerations become second nature even in more commercial sectors.”

Cymdeithas Tai Eryri’s Community Initiatives Team have been working with the tenants since they moved into their new homes in December 2008. This has included providing ‘current cost monitors’ and advising tenants on their energy usage. These enable the tenants to identify the cost of consumption and therefore the possible effects on the environment.

The next step will be to conduct a series of ‘eco-team’ sessions to help tenants reduce waste along with water and electricity consumption. This support will continue throughout the first year of occupation, to ensure that tenants obtain the maximum benefits from the sustainable technologies provided.

Walis George continued: “Following this week’s official opening of the scheme we will be pressing on with our plans to use best practice from our Eithinog scheme in order to innovate further by looking at ways of improving the sustainability of our existing housing stock, starting with a pilot project in Trefor.”

Jane Davidson said: “The built environment is the largest contributor to greenhouse gases in Wales. The way in which we construct and use our homes and other buildings accounts for 40% of our total carbon emissions. It is vital that all our new buildings are energy efficient and as green as possible.

“It is great to see Cymdeithas Tai Eryri putting sustainability at the top of their agenda and going above and beyond the current efficiency standards.
“Earlier this week I announced new national green standards for buildings intended to cut carbon emissions and improve their sustainability. We are the first part of the UK to set a national standard for sustainable buildings to be met through the planning system.”

Twitter

2009-06-08T16:46:00.003+01:00

Taking inspiration from a session at the last PR Network, CHC will not be regularly tweeting.
Why not follow us? Just type CHCymru into the search box and keep up to date with what were're doing!

Freshbaked PR Presentation, PR Network 2.6.09

2009-06-03T15:58:00.001+01:00

Freshbaked Pr Network

View more OpenOffice presentations from eohart.

Welsh Language Board Presentation, PR Network 2/6/09

2009-06-03T12:40:00.002+01:00

Welsh Language Board Pr Network

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CFDI Presentation, PR Network, 2/6/09

2009-06-03T12:37:00.000+01:00

CDFI presentation, PR Network

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Taff HA Presentation - PR Network 2/6/09

2009-06-03T12:36:00.001+01:00

Taff HA Presentation, PR Network

View more OpenOffice presentations from eohart.

PR Network

2009-06-03T11:41:00.003+01:00

Just to say thanks to everyone who attended the PR network yesterday. Some great presenations and ideas for us all to take back and apply to our associations.

The presentations will be uploaded here shortly.