o debt - The Regenda Group

spring 2010
issue 11
meet our
VIPs
Say ‘hello’ to some of
the first Regenda VIPs
to be nominated...
south windle
success
Our South Windle
development celebrates
as demand continues...
M&Y
join us
In-house maintenance
benefits residents and
boosts services...
win
£1000
Fancy winning 1 of 3
cash prizes? Find out
more inside...
Regenda’s Resident Communication Team
A note from the Editor...
Welcome to Belong Spring 2010
At last, Spring is here - and what’s new and fresh at Regenda? Well, we have crowned our first Regenda VIPs, opened the brand new
£400,000 West View People’s Park in Fleetwood (page 11), and taken part in both the Wardleworth Big Clean (page 14) and the
Broadwater and Flakefleet Cleansweep (page 15).
Also in this issue, our new homes in South Windle, St Helens are selling well (page 6). We also welcomed the Minister of State for
Pensions, Wallasey MP Angela Eagle to our Maritime Grange scheme on the Wirral (page 18).
Excited? We are - to formally welcome our Resident Communication Team to the fold. This group of residents have volunteered to
become part of the team to ensure the views of Regenda residents are represented in the magazine and within all other
communication materials that Regenda produce.
This is, after all, your magazine - and as well as the news that our regulators ask us to report to you, such as performance data and
survey results - we want the team’s help to ensure we are publishing interesting and important stories for you.
So we say ‘welcome’ to our new team. Some members have even pledged to become roving reporters! Don’t be surprised to see one
of the team accompanying a Regenda Neighbourhood Officer to your local neighbourhood event, estate walkabout or scheme
opening, armed with a notepad and a camera wanting to interview you. Please be gentle with them!
Till Autumn…
Stephanie - Editor
Belong Editorial Team
Editor
Assistant Editor
Designer
Stephanie Baxter
Melanie Parr
Stephen Fish
Resident Communication Team
Dorothy Moran
Sharon Lowe
Gordon Ainsworth
Bill McQuinn
Ann McQuinn
Ron Ferguson
Tony Hogan
Philip Shields
If you would like to join them contact
Helen Shields on 0344 736 0066
To find out more about the Regenda Group
and what we do, log onto
www.regenda.org.uk
Belong is printed using Vegetable Based Inks and the
paper is FSC certified to come from managed sources
Cert no. SGS-COC-003591
We make every effort to ensure the text in this
magazine is between 10-12pt for legibility and clarity.
This is not always possible due to content. However if
you would like this document in large print, in your
language or in audio format, please phone us on 0344
736 0066 or ask at one of our local offices.
Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in Belong is correct at time of going to press. The Regenda Group - April 2010
this issue...
spring 2010
issue 11
Got a viewpoint? Want to see something featured
in the next issue? Write to Belong, Regenda House,
Enterprise Business Park, Northgate Close, Horwich,
Bolton BL6 6PQ or email: belong@regenda.org.uk
4
meet our
VIPs
8
M&Y
join us
Say ‘hello’ to some of the first
Regenda VIPs...
M&Y join Regenda to offer superior
high quality service to your door...
south windle
win
6
success
Our South Windle development
celebrates success...
£1000 27
A chance to win big in our next
resident survey...
Since our Winter edition a lot has happened – we have had the ‘big freeze’ and the worst
weather for 30 years, come out of the recession and seen the end of the swine flu pandemic! A
lot is happening at Regenda too. I’d like to share a few highlights with you:
•
•
•
Bernard
a message from
•
•
•
Over the last three years we have upped our investment in our major works programme by around 30%In 2010 the Group will be making its biggest ever investment of £15 million, which will go into repairing
and maintaining our homes and enable us to complete the Decent Homes Standard programme
All single glazed windows will be replaced across the group over the next 2-3 years, improving thermal
insulation and lowering energy bills for residents
The introduction of the customer texting service in November has dramatically reduced the number of
missed appointments
We have seen some evidence of the ‘shoots of recovery’ in the housing market with our shared
ownership properties in South Windle, St Helens selling well. We have further plans to build around 200
new properties around the North West
We are delighted that M&Y Joinery, who provide a responsive repairs service, have joined the Regenda
family (see page 8)
Investment in Aids & Adaptations is increasing enabling us to improve living conditions for many of our
residents
This has all been achieved through an increased focus on value for money and efficiency. The financial
strength that all of this brings is particularly important as there are still tough economic times ahead. But I
believe we are in great shape to improve services and continue playing a major part in meeting the housing
needs of the region.
Bernard Gallagher
Regenda Group Chief Executive
Customer Services
0344 736 0066
Our lines are open 8am - 7pm Monday-Friday
visit
www.regendafirst.org.uk
for details of our out-of-hours services
belong issue 11
03
Regenda VIPs
Say hello to our first crop of Regenda Very Important Persons (VIPs)
Back in summer last year, we told you we were looking at new ways to recognise those of you who love
being active in your communities. This could be for a whole manner of things; from supporting your
neighbours, to helping out at community centres, hospitals, places of worship or organising
neighbourhood events and so on…
We have previously held an annual award evening – the ‘Regenda Resident of the Year’ – to honour our special residents. We felt that
as lots of you give up your valuable time to help your community all year round we should continually applaud the work you do.
So, check out our first crop of residents to be nominated as a Regenda VIP
Brian Mnew Gibbs Court, Dane Close, Wirral
Nominated by:
Dave Selby,
Regenda Team
Leader
Eileen Kavanagh Raikes Road, Gt Eccleston
Nominated by:
Karen Turner,
Regenda Tenancy
Support Officer
“Brian has been a long standing involved Regenda Resident at this
“Eileen and her husband have been Regenda Residents for over 5 years.
scheme. He always participates in monthly scheme inspections. Brian is
They have always been considerate neighbours who regularly visit
forthright and passionate about the scheme where he lives and
neighbours who are ill at home, alone or in hospital”
ensures other residents views are represented to Regenda.”
Pictured with Dave Selby, Regenda Team Leader
Lydia Smith Pearl Mill Close, Glodwick, Oldham
Nominated by:
Sheila Dorrington Higherlime Road, Limehurst Village
Nominated by:
Verity Mason,
Regenda
Neighbourhood
Officer
Mrs D L Wood, Pearl Mill Close
Glodwick, Oldham, Regenda
Resident
and
“Sheila has worked very closely with me over the past 3 years. She
Roy Frankland, Netherhey St,
provides an extremely positive contribution to the Neighbourhood
Oldham, Regenda Resident
“Lydia is a good hearted, generous, caring, sharing member of the
community. She is a great asset to Pearl Mill and is always prepared to
lend a hand. She is often seen shopping for sick or elderly residents and
always makes time to help new residents ‘settle in’. She takes a pride in
the area where she lives and can regularly be seen sweeping up ‘under
the archway’. She feeds the birds and wildlife on the waste land close
by and is in contact with the RSPB. It is great that Lydia can be
recognised for all her efforts and commitment to her community.”
Pictured with Alex Heyes, Regional Services Manager
04
belong issue 11
projects that I am involved with on the Limehurst Estate. Even though
Sheila has mobility issues, she still manages to sit in on my quarterly
Neighbourhood Action Plan meeting, the Single Interest Group and
has been nominated as Vice Chair of the Greater Manchester Regional
Consultative Committee. I am currently working on a project with
Oldham Housing Investment Partnership, promoting Community
Cohesion in the Oldham Area – this includes four yearly House Party
Events where 5 different landlords take their own tenants for a day to
another part of Oldham. Sheila is always happy to attend these events
and always talks about the estate in a very positive way.”
Pictured with Andrei Szatkowski, Regional Services Director
awards
Each of our VIPs received a souvenir paperweight
to mark their contribution
Dorothy Barber Weavers Court, Macclesfield
Brian Horsfield Fitzroy Street, Ashton Under Lyne
Nominated by:
Helen Marks,
Regenda
Neighbourhood
Officer
Nominated by:
Amanda Lennox,
Regenda
Neighbourhood
Officer
“Mrs Barber is a Resident of Weavers Court. She volunteers for many
“Since Brian and his wife moved into their new bungalow in Dec 08, he
charities including the local hospice. She regularly holds get-togethers
has gone out of his way to help residents to cultivate their bare patches
for the residents, either in her home or in the communal gardens and
of grass to create some wonderful front and back gardens. At
she has helped to set up a monthly bingo session for residents of
Christmas, he organised a ‘street Christmas party’ and successfully
Weavers Court at the local care home. She is a much loved and valued
applied for funding from Regenda and St Peters Partnership to fit the
member of the community and she goes out of her way to help
whole street out with lights and Christmas decorations. Brian has since
anyone. She always attends scheme walkabouts and her husband kept
joined the local Residents Group and is attempting to secure funding to
Weavers Court gritted and snow free during the recent cold snap!”
start a grass cutting service for residents in the area.”
Pictured with Alex Morrish, Regional Services Manager
Mo Hitchmough Wilkinson Court, Liverpool
Pictured with Alex Morrish, Regional Services Manager
William Lyons Heylee, Kelvin Street, Ashton Under Lyne
Nominated by:
Pamela Cooper,
Regenda Scheme
Manager
Nominated by:
Steve Newsham,
Regenda Regional
Director
“Since the transfer of Wilkinson Court from Servite to Regenda, Mo has
consistently contributed constructive suggestions regarding Service
improvements at my ‘Meet the Chief’ sessions and has allowed us to
consult with her over a range of issues.”
“Bill is a vital asset to the scheme, always keen to lend a helping hand
when the Scheme Manager is on leave, organising Bingo for Residents
and even raising funds to buy a replacement Bingo machine when it
broke down. Even though he is a relatively new resident, he has gained
the trust of the older more frail residents, whom he encourages to
Pictured with Kevin Short, Regenda Project Manager
come out and socialise in the communal room with his support and
assistance. Bill’s most recent project was to obtain support from local
business.”
Peter Lamb Martindale Ave, Fleetwood
Nominated by:
Win Redhead,
Regenda
Neighbourhood
Officer
“Peter is always a helpful and enthusiastic member of West View
Community who was recently involved in the “Clean Sweep” project. He
Pictured with Pamela Cooper, Regenda Scheme Manager
Mark Clare Grasscroft Close, Fleetwood
Nominated by:
Win Redhead,
Regenda
Neighbourhood
Officer
helps to encourage residents and young people of the West View
estate to improve the cleanliness of their community. Peter has worked
“Mark is a new resident to the West View estate and has thrown
with young people, teaching them how to plant bulbs to help improve
himself into volunteering in the local community centre. He works in all
the environment.”
weathers to maintain the allotments and is always enthusiastic.”
Pictured with Darralyn Jackson, Regional Services Manager and Win Redhead
Pictured with Darralyn Jackson, Regional Services Manager and Win Redhead
£5 million South Windle development
celebrates handover success
A brand new £5 million development at South Windle
celebrates success as demand continues for a range of
new 2, 3 and 4 bedroom attractive, energy efficient
homes at Chapel and Argyle Street in South Windle, St
Helens.
Partnerships and the Council. However, it’s key to success has been
A number of residents have already moved into the
homes, 44 of which are available through rental
schemes and through Homebuy shared ownership. The
homes retain the traditional Victorian atmosphere of
the area and form part of the South Windle
Neighbourhood Renewal zone in St Helens.
Jean Davies, Chair of South Windle Residents Committee said, “The
the work undertaken with the local community who have been
influential in ensuring that the design and type of housing
complements the neighbourhood, whilst meeting local aspirations
and need."
original motivation for forming the Committee was to have some
control over the housing development with initial consultation
revealing a strong desire for traditional style housing that fits into
our community. The houses look fabulous, with sash windows,
stone detailing and decorative brickwork, yet they are also
eco-friendly and suited to modern living. Now that the planning
Graham Bennett, Director of Home Ownership at the Regenda
and construction are finishing, the Committee look forward to
Group said; “We recently hosted a very successful launch event and
welcoming the new residents.”
we are very pleased to report a strong interest in these properties.
Our partnership with St Helens Council, Helena Partnerships, the
For further information on homes available through a number or
South Windle steering group and the design team has resulted in
rental schemes and for sale through Shared Ownership (known as
high quality and affordable homes which will ensure the success of
HomeBuy) where you can part-buy and part-rent at Chapel and
this regeneration area.”
Argyle Streets in South Windle, please contact one of our
experienced Sales Consultants on:
highly successful and exemplar project which has been delivered
0344 736 0063
through close partnership working with the Regenda Group, Helena
Chapel Street, South Windle, St Helens, WA10 2BN
John Simm from St Helens Borough Council said, “This has been a
Regenda Staff, Councillors and Regenda Partners visiting the completed South Windle development
06
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•
•
•
•
Are you 55+?
Do you feel it is time to down-size?
Would you like to live in a safe environment?
Would you like to meet new friends?
If you have answered yes, one of Regenda’s Rental or Sheltered Developments could be the answer
Regenda has a range of Sheltered accommodation (flats, houses and bungalows) across the North West. These developments
promote independent living with a great sense of community and a range of social activities for those wishing to take part.
on 0344 736 0066
For further information please contact
location … location … location
Regenda have a range of new 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes which are available through a number of rental schemes and for sale through
Shared Ownership (known as HomeBuy) where you can part-buy and part-rent. A range of homes are available throughout the North West.
The Foundry, Lydia Ann St / Henry St, Liverpool, L1 5BW
The Foundry, located in the heart of the famous
flooring in the kitchen and bathroom. A security
Ropewalks in Liverpool city centre has a range
intercom system is fitted and many of the
of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments starting from
apartments retain some of their original
as little as £21,875 for 25% Shared Ownership
features.
(with rent payable on the outstanding balance).
Graham Bennett, Director of Home Ownership
This fantastic development is located in the
at Regenda said; “This
is
a
fantastic
heart of the city centre within walking distance
opportunity for people to buy a brand new
of the multi-million pound Liverpool One
apartment in this great city. Our range of 1
shopping centre and all that Liverpool has to
and 2 bedroom apartments are available
offer.
through Shared Ownership (also known as
HomeBuy) which is aimed at giving people
All the apartments have fully fitted kitchens
the chance to get onto the housing ladder in
including appliances and offer open plan living.
the area.”
Carpets are fitted throughout with no-slip vinyl
For further information and to find what properties are available through our range of rental schemes and
Shared Ownership – call Regendafirst on 0344 7360066 or click onto www.regendafirst.org.uk and
www.regendahomes.co.uk
M&Y
joins Regenda Group
On the 1st of January 2010, M&Y Joinery
became part of the Regenda Group. This
partnership will yield many benefits for
residents, Regenda and M&Y. Not least it
will build upon the established relationship
between the two organisations to ensure
that high quality services continue to be
delivered to Merseyside and Cheshire
residents.
Graham Yates Managing Director of M&Y (left) with
Bernard Gallagher, Regenda Chief Executive
Bernard
Gallagher,
Regenda
Group
Chief
Executive said; “The change will secure M&Y’s
long term future and the larger scale of the
combined organisation will reduce costs and
increase efficiency. This will support investment
to further improve services to residents. It is
intended that plumbing and electrical work
currently subcontracted by M&Y to third parties
will be brought in-house, which will improve the
reliability of the service in these areas.
After that, the focus will be on bringing the
management of the Regenda Group’s existing
direct labour organisation, Lancashire Building
Maintenance, under that of M&Y. The two
organisations
will
remain
geographically
separate, but opportunities exist to share best
practice and combine available resources to
develop systems and services.
M&Y will continue to operate from its current
bases in St Helens and Wallasey and is
committed to local employment and training.”
08
belong issue 11
10
The M&Y team with (front row from left) Catherine Lynagh, Regenda Executive
Director of Finance, Graham Yates and Gill Kelly of M&Y and Bernard Gallagher
Gill Kelly of M&Y added; “Team M&Y are very excited
Our local economy has recently been through
about this amazing opportunity. M&Y has long
difficult times, so it is going to be wonderful for our
serving employees who have grown and developed
teams to be part of a flourishing business with so
with the business, they feel ownership for the
much potential now to expand and offer increased
service delivered to residents. Whilst M&Y was a
job opportunities. M&Y also supports other local
private contractor, there was always the worry of
businesses and suppliers which is something we
securing our next contract, particularly with The
feel passionate about. Our procurement injects
Regenda Group as this was 90% of our business. funds into our local economy.
M&Y is very much involved with the Local Chamber
M&Y teams already have established relationships
of Commerce, employs local people and supports
with Regenda staff so are looking forward to
learning at local schools - therefore merging with
building on this and utilising both our skill sets to
The Regenda Group gives M&Y the resources and
provide a superior service to the residents. We feel
commitment to continue this level of support. we are now part of something really special and we
are looking forward to making a difference.”
Quad bike mania
During the February walkabout of Regent and Legh Street in Newton le Willows,
Regenda’s Neighbourhood Officers joined forces with the Police so that local
residents got a chance to see the quad bikes up close and personal. The young
residents particularly enjoyed the experience!
Limeside’s Winter Wonderland
Limeside became a Winter Wonderland in December when the ‘House Party on
Tour’ dropped in. Regenda is a partner of ‘The House Party’, an Oldham
Housing Investment Partnership (OHIP) project which brings together residents
from different areas, backgrounds and ages and takes them around different
areas of Oldham, giving them opportunities to share new experiences.
Regenda Neighbourhood Officer, Verity Mason said; “Over 200 residents attended,
coming from all over Oldham. For some it was their first visit to Limeside, so
it was good to welcome them to such a fun event. Many were keen to try ice
skating on the specially constructed indoor ice rink as well as enjoying the
fun fair and face painting.”
A group of willing parents, healthy eating advice and a firefighter with a love of cooking
are all the ingredients needed for a successful cooking project.
Firefighter Gary Spain has volunteered to teach a group of budding chefs how to cook
basic, nutritional meals. They are all parents of pupils at Rimrose Hope and Our Lady Star
of the Sea Primary Schools in Bootle.
Healthy eating
project is a recipe
for success
Gary was approached by Crosby Housing Association and the Regenda Group through
the Housing Market Renewal Initiative after they heard how he had run cookery classes
at Bootle Fire Station, using Jamie Oliver’s ‘Pass It On’ initiative. Now a group of parents
meet at Rimrose School for an afternoon every week where Gary teaches them how to
make a meal that is cheap and easy to cook.
Gary said: “The meals are simple, healthy, economical and versatile, with the minimum
amount of washing up afterwards! The class finishes in time for the parents to go and
collect their children from school and they can then pass what they have learned on to
them.”
Debbie Clarke is one of the parents who has been taking part: “It’s brilliant. There’s a
really friendly atmosphere and everything is put across in a really friendly way.”
Wardleworth residents getting careers advice
with Regenda Neighbourhood Officer Sarah
Collins on the Skills Bus.
Claire Lomas HMR Project Officer, Gary
Spain from Merseyside Fire & Rescue, Sandra
Bell from Sefton Primary Care Trust with
participating parents.
All aboard the skills bus
Adults in Wardleworth looking for help and advice on training and job
opportunities were hopping onboard the Regenda Group and Rochdale Borough
Council ‘Skills Bus’ in February.
Alex Heyes, Regenda Regional Services Manager said: “We are delighted to be involved
in this initiative to help local people get support and advice on training and career
opportunities in the Rochdale area. We worked with Rochdale Borough Council,
Employment Links, Orchard Training Solutions and Hopwood Hall College to
provide this opportunity to get up-to-date advice and training solutions.”
managed and co-ordinated the scheme added; “It’s
been nearly four years since I took on this
challenging project. It has certainly been a
learning curve for me and has given me
enormous satisfaction to see it finally finished
and looking so good.”
West View People’s Park
ready for action
Phase two of West View People’s Park on Martindale Avenue,
Fleetwood is now complete. The impressive community sports,
recreational and environmental learning facility was officially
opened in March by the Mayor and Mayoress of Wyre.
events
Angela Welch, Regenda Project Manager who
The Park has become a very well used facility and now that it is
complete, it will be officially handed over by Steve Newsham,
Regional Director of the Regenda Group to David Blower,
Chairman of West View Community Association for it to run
and manage the facility on behalf of the local Fleetwood
community.
Children from local primary schools also tested out the brand
new play equipment on the play area.
David Blower, Chairman of West View Community Association said; “It
is absolutely fantastic to see the dream, started by the efforts
of young people from our Community Change group, develop
into a terrific partnership with the Regenda Group and Wyre
Borough Council. The park gives the people of West View an
area for children and families to get together, in a true
community spirit, on our field of dreams.”
Over £165,000 has been spent developing this second phase
of the park, incorporating an environmental area, consisting of
an impressive ‘boardwalk’ leading to a wetland and a schools
teaching area of landscaping, planting, pathways and picnic
benches. An enclosed under 8’s play area is another main
attraction.
Peter Lamb, local resident and volunteer at the park said; “I
have lived in Martindale Ave for 6 years. It has a good strong
community feel. At the back of Martindale Avenue there was
some unused ground, which is not unused any more. It is now
a thriving park - at last somewhere to take your little children
and big children too. I wish to thank all those involved.”
This injection of funds comes hot on the heels of an earlier
investment to the tune of £264,000, which saw the first phase
of the development open in June 2008. This transformed a
previously derelict wasteland on the West View estate, into a
multi use games area for use by local residents.
Another local resident and volunteer helper, Jim Vance who
opens and closes the park gates each day added; “I am so
pleased with the place and we are really looking forward to the
second part of the park opening. It will be great to have picnics
there in the summer.”
Steve Newsham, Regional Director of The Regenda Group said, “This
project has been achieved through true partnership
working. Without the support of local residents, Wyre
Borough Council, West View Community Association and
our other many funders, the West People’s Park would never
have got off the ground. Now look at it – transformed from
an overgrown field into a fantastic community facility to be
used for both learning and recreation, for years to come. We
are very proud of it; we know it will become the hub of the
neighbourhood.”
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11
Regenda’s lucky winners
Residents Reunited survey winner
The Resident Reunited prize draw winner was Ms Anwara Bibi
from Ramsay Terrace, Rochdale. She won £50 in shopping
vouchers in the resident prize draw offered to all residents that
completed surveys. This was during the Resident Reunited
event that was held in Wardleworth on the 9th of December
last year.
Seddon survey winners
Seddon Property Services are working in partnership with
Regenda undertaking pre-paint repairs and decoration to
Regenda properties in Greater Manchester, Merseyside and
North Cheshire. Your vital feedback enables us to continually
monitor and improve services. So Seddons are giving away
£100 four times a year as an incentive to complete their
satisfaction questionnaires. Residents who complete them are
entered into a prize draw.
Ms Yates of Peters Street, Wallasey, Liverpool was randomly
selected as the lucky £100 prize draw winner for October and
Mr and Mrs Howard of Eagle Court, Denshaw Road, Delph
were winners for December.
£200 prize draw winner
Congratulations to Mrs Barbara Lake of Calder Drive, Catterall
Preston who won £200 in our prize draw. Mrs Lake responded
to our customer satisfaction text survey for repairs and
maintenance in January. She was automatically entered into
the draw and was randomly selected as the winner.
Christmas hamper winner
Mr John Roberts, a resident at Heatherfield Court, in Victoria
Fields Birkenhead, won the star prize Christmas hamper at the
Victoria Fields Christmas party held in December, presented
by Julie Robinson - Regenda Neighbourhood Officer.
12
belong issue 11
John Sheppard of J&S
Seddon Ltd. presenting
Ms Yates with her prize
who said; “I’m very happy
to be a winner and I look
forward to spending my
voucher.”
Pictured left to right are Seddon Property Services Contracts Manager,
John Tilstone, Mrs Howard and Regenda First Asset Surveyor, Steve Perry
Looking for Liverpool to
Help is on hand for Liverpool residents to get
FREE independent, impartial and confidential
Colette Gorst – BeMoneywise Advisory Officer
advice on a wide range of issues surrounding
benefit entitlement and debt issues.
Millions of viewers have been gripped by the
Coronation Street storyline which saw Joe and Gail
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PROBLEM
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problems.
Colette Gorst – BeMoneywise Advisory Officer said,
“Financial problems and mounting debt can
seem like the end of the world and cause a
great deal of stress. But the BeMoneywise
service has been set up to help local people
with money matters around debt, money
guidance, benefits, tax and pension credits
and disability benefits etc.
Whenever anyone contacts us they can be
assured that we will be working for their best
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can call about any matter relating to money
and debt advice and we will always be on
hand to help either on the phone, meeting at
a local office or even visiting them at home.
This really is a great opportunity for anyone
in Liverpool to sort out their financial issues
and we are here to help them.”
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For further information about BeMoneywise, please contact 0151 432 5100 or email
info@bemoneywise.org.uk. To view the budget calculator click onto www.bemoneywise.org.uk
*The BeMoneywise service is a local government funded initiative delivered by The Regenda Group on behalf of Liverpool City Council
Tree planting at Limehurst with
Regenda Landscapes and residents
Limehurst can’t see the woods for the trees!
Limehurst recently got some new trees planted by Regenda Landscapes courtesy
of Gift Aid funding. Limehurst resident, Mrs Rodgers said; “The trees look very
nice and I love the one planted in front of my bungalow”.
Darrel Rogers from Regenda Landscapes said; “I think it’s great to put something
back into the community. In spring, summer and autumn the trees will have
great foliage, blossom and interesting bark for all to enjoy.”
Schools in Wirral are being able to cut down on waste – using worms – thanks to Live Wirral
Wardens. Around £5,000 has been allocated as part of a £20,000 recycling drive for the use of
wormeries to make high-quality compost out of organic waste.
Vermicomposting - which takes place in special bins, works because in good conditions, worms can
eat their own weight in organic matter in a day, and their excretions make excellent fertilizer. The
money for the project came from Merseyside Waste Disposal Authority and its contractor Veolia
Environmental Services, part of a pot which was applied for by Live Wirral wardens.
Youngsters with their worms!
Worms for Wirral!
Wardleworth’s
Big Clean 2010
Sarah Collins, Regenda’s Neighbourhood Officer for
Wardleworth, Rochdale has become a pin up girl!
Sarah heard that Rochdale Council’s Environmental
Management Services were putting in an extra £100,000
towards cleaning up the borough and they wanted the Rochdale
community to let them know where to spend it. So, Sarah
decided to nominate Wardleworth play zone at the end of South
Street and the Bulwer Street spare land site. She had to explain
why she and local residents thought the area deserved a ‘big
clean’, so she set about door knocking and canvassing local views
as well as completing nomination forms with the residents.
In March, she was delighted to discover that these areas had
14
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won and she would be featured on the billboard advertising the
Wardleworth Big Clean. The billboard was up in Rochdale Town
Centre for 2 weeks during March and now she is receiving calls
from Vogue for her next photo shoot!
Sarah said; “The reason I nominated Wardleworth Play zone is
because it’s in the heart of the community and has a variety of
activities for all ages, from swings and slides for the younger
children, to football and basket ball courts for the teenagers.
After I had completed my monthly estate walkabout, I noticed
there was a lot of household rubbish and litter in the area. I
thought it would be a good idea to get this area cleaned as it
may encourage young people in this community to do the same.
Rubbish and fly tipping can cause serious health and
environmental problems.”
From left back row; Alex Morrish, Regenda Regional
Services Manager with winning residents Mr B
Horsfield of Fitzroy Street, Ashton and Ms S Khan of
St Peter’s Close, Ashton. From left front row; Mrs B
Horsfield, of Fitzroy Street, Ashton and Mr M Taj of St
Peter’s Close, Ashton
Tameside shows its
appreciation
As a thank you to six lucky Regenda Residents
who tended and improved their gardens over
2009, a “Tameside in Bloom Appreciation
Evening” was held at Dukinfield Town Hall last
November.
Regenda had over fifteen entries which has
been the largest response to date.
The event brought together residents from
Regenda, community groups, District Assemblies,
schools and other Social Landlords, as it was
felt that it was important to recognise
residents who play a part in improving the way
Tameside looks - as well as building stronger
communities.
Ashfield Road gets
to grip with recycling
Regenda’s Neighbourhood Officer, Sarah
Collins has been working with Rochdale
Council’s Recycling Participation Officer, Alan
Bones to increase Ashfield Road’s recycling
storage capacity.
Due to space constraints, residents were
struggling to store individual recycling and
refuse bins. As a result they were not recycling
to their full capacity.
Now that a cordon has been installed to store
communal recycling bins and the residents
given appropriate advice on what materials
can be recycled, the system is being used very
successfully and the area is much tidier as a
result.
going
green
All hands to
the pump
for Fleetwood
Cleansweep
Fleetwood was the latest area to be targeted by a multi-agency operation in
January. An intensive clean-up operation was mounted to restore pride to the
neighbourhood and get communities working together.
Community activities included litter picks and bulb planting in public areas, a
waste amnesty, graffiti removal, vehicle checks and a stepping up of
enforcement action. Skips were provided by Regenda in ten locations for
residents' use and staff were on hand to assist residents who wanted to dispose
of their rubbish.
A meet and greet session took place with various local service providers,
including fire officers, police and a member of the council's recycling team. Drop
in mobile units were available for advice and information and to give feedback
on how the community could be improved.
Julie Trotter, Regenda Team Leader said; “Well what can I say – this was a huge
task to deliver over 2 areas; Broadwater and Flakefleet. The neighbourhood
team at Wyre delivered this very successfully in the pouring down rain! 21 skips
and 7.2 tonnes of rubbish were gathered including sofas, mattresses and over
100 TV’s. 6 gardens were also cleared making both areas a much cleaner place
to live. A job well done.”
Limehurst dream garden
Limehurst resident Mrs Hilton was reduced to tears
when she got her dream garden recently. Regenda
Neighbourhood Officer, Verity Mason and Regenda
Landscapes worked hard to ensure her waterlogged
front garden was transformed into a designer space!
Mrs Hilton moved into Limehurst in September 2008
and since then she has made radical improvements to
the interior of her bungalow, but was very upset that
she couldn't get ‘stuck-in’ to her front garden due to
flooding issues.
Verity successfully applied for Gift Aid funding and
Regenda Landscapes carried out drainage work. Mrs
Hilton then put the finishing touches to the garden
adding fancy gravel, pots and plants.
Mrs Hilton said: "I am really grateful for Regenda
helping me to transform my front garden. I am
disabled and found it hard to maintain in the previous
condition. Verity has been very helpful, and I would
like to thank her for making this all possible. Darrel
and his team at Regenda Landscapes have worked
their socks off and have been very polite and
courteous throughout"
from left; Darrel
Rogers of
Regenda
Landscapes,
Verity Mason
Regenda
Neighbourhood
Officer and Mrs
Hilton
are you struggling
with debt and
need a hand?
We have produced a Debt Advice Pack which offers
useful tips on how to control your borrowing, maximize
your income and manage your debts as well as:
Then we can help you
The current economic climate is
biting hard and we recognise you
may need extra help and support
through this difficult period.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Tips on how to manage your money
How to deal with debt
How to contact people you owe money to and example
letters for you to use
How we can refer you to your local Citizens Advice Bureau
A list of useful Independent Agencies who can help you
How to access basic bank accounts
How to save money on your bills
How to maximise your income to see if you are entitled to
any Welfare Benefits
For more specialist advice, Regenda works closely with a number of different advice agencies and can put you in touch with
local services who will be happy to assist. Please contact the Shared Service Centre on 0344 7360066 to discuss this or
to request a copy of the Debt Advice Pack or download it from moneymatters at www.regendafirst.org.uk
Regenda offers opportunities
for new recruits
Regenda has recruited 10 new
employees under the government
funded Future Jobs Fund (FJF)
scheme. This is a fund of around £1
billion to support the creation of
jobs for long term unemployed
young people and others who face
significant disadvantage in the
labour market.
The project aims to create 150,000 jobs, primarily aimed at 18-24
year olds, who have been out of work for nearly a year. These posts
will be for a six month period and provide work experience and
training.
The programme is led by Groundwork and the National Housing
Federation, providing a strategic framework for locally based
members to employ clients in response to local labour market
needs. The programme will create 2,384 jobs, delivering significant
environmental and community benefits in neighbourhoods across
England and Wales, and helping those employed acquire skills and
experience in emerging economic sectors.
The 10 new recruits are working in various roles and locations across the Group from caretakers,
gardeners, neighbourhood wardens to office administrators. We wish them well in their roles.
Rechargable repairs
what’s the story?
During 2009, in consultation with you - our
residents, we carried out an extensive review of
our rechargeable repairs procedure.
You asked us to take a detailed look at
how we could improve the service we
provide to you.
What you didn’t like and wanted changing
•
•
•
A minimum £100 fee payable up front. You felt this was too much to pay up front as many
struggle to raise this amount
Charging for the repairs when circumstances around it may be due to vulnerability issues
Not having a dedicated officer to chase recharges
What we have changed
•
•
•
The minimum amount of £100 has now been removed - you will now be recharged the
amount that the repair costs
Residents will not be recharged if the repair is due to their vulnerability
A dedicated post of Recharge Officer has been created to deal specifically with recharges. The
post will be responsible for chasing debts owed to Regenda which sit outside rent and arrears,
in addition to advising Customer Service Advisors on rechargeable repairs
Check how we are performing...
Ever wondered if you are getting
a fair deal from us, or how we
compare to other landlords
in the area?
Help is now at hand from the national social housing regulator,
the Tenant Services Authority
This new free web tool lets you compare the performance of
housing associations in the area – all you have to do is enter your
postcode. You can compare your rent with the local average and
see how we rate in terms of our overall service.
Visit www.tenantservicesauthority.org and click on the Find
and Compare Landlords link in the top right hand corner of the
website. No logins, passwords or subscriptions are needed.
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17
Karl’s fishing trip goes swimmingly
Young Regenda resident Karl Birch, a pupil at Park High School, Birkenhead attended a
fabulous fishing trip to France, courtesy of Regenda last Summer. Karl who lives on Patterson
Street in Birkenhead was selected to go on the trip of a lifetime as a reward for his
contribution in school. Regenda decided to support the school’s youth engagement
project when Park High’s Learning Mentor, Pat Diable approached Regenda and
explained the excellent commitment and improvement Karl had made in school.
Karl on his fishing trip to France with an impressive catch!
Angela Eagle MP (middle) sharing a cuppa with Maritime
Grange residents Ivy Gorman and June Fenna
Karl recently wrote to Regenda about his trip “I would like
to thank you for your donation towards my fishing trip
to France. I was invited on the trip because I’ve made a
big improvement in my behaviour and attendance.
Even though I was invited, I knew it would be
impossible for my mum to find the money. So when Mrs
Diable said she had been given the funding from
Regenda I was delighted - this was a dream come true.
The trip was fantastic. The great thing was it was not
just fishing; we had lots of trips too. Thank you for the
trip of a life time!”
Wirral pensioners urged not to
miss out on pension credits.
Regenda’s Wirral pensioners have been urged to apply for
pension credits as part of a Government campaign to
encourage the over 60s across Merseyside to find out what
benefits they are entitled to. Wallasey MP Angela Eagle,
Minister of State for Pensions, attended a benefits advice
session being run by the Pension Local Service for the
residents of Maritime Grange, as part of a benefits advice
day to launch the awareness campaign.
Jane McCoy, Regenda Scheme Manager at Maritime Grange
said, “The Regenda Group and its staff at Maritime Grange
are proud to support the pension credit campaign. We feel it
is absolutely vital that our elderly residents are fully aware
what benefits they are entitled to and that they take the
support that is on offer to them.”
Miss Eagle said: "I'm trying to increase the level of claims for
pension credit so that another £1.5m of money will be paid
to local pensioners. We've done this in the North East and we
exceeded our target by 50 per cent, so I'm naturally hoping
that we can do even better in my own region. At the moment,
three million people in the country get pension credit, which
is why we've been able to take a million out of poverty. We
know that for younger pensioners, a maximum of about 30
per cent who are entitled don't claim."
After visiting the Maritime Grange scheme, Miss Eagle went
on to meet elderly shoppers at Birkenhead Market to raise
awareness of the campaign.
Bill with Regenda resident Christopher
Viking Bill gets on his bike to raise
funds for Regenda resident
Bill Engleton, an M&Y operative in the Merseyside area, has raised
£400 for Wolf Hirschhorn Syndrome. Bill was inspired to raise the
cash after becoming good pals with young Regenda resident
Christopher Atherton who has the condition.
Bill got to know Christopher and Jeanette (Christopher’s Mum)
during maintenance visits to their home in Earlestown. Bill, a keen
biker, organised a toy run on his bike in December from New
Brighton promenade, through the Wirral, ending at Arrowpark
Hospital.
For
further
details
of
Wolf
Hirschhorn
Syndrome,
http://www.whs4pminus.co.uk/into1.html
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visit
Eyes down at Weavers Court
Weavers Court residents, Mrs Dyson and Mrs Barber
enlisted the help of their Regenda Neighbourhood
Officer, Helen Marks to introduce some fun
activities to help the residents get to know each
other better.
Their flats, based in Macclesfield, do not have a
communal lounge, so they approached the Genesis
Care Home next door to host some activities for
both Genesis and Regenda residents to take part in.
Bingo was the first event they tried and it proved
very popular. So much so, monthly sessions are now
held on the 4th Wednesday in the month. Genesis
provide the bingo equipment and refreshments and
the Weavers Court residents donate the prizes.
Helen Marks said; “I hope we can organise more
activities in the future with the Genesis staff and
residents.”
about you
it’s all
Good
Samaritan
Jo steps
in to help
Regenda Tenancy Support Officer, Jo Sullivan contacted the Guardian
newspaper’s Consumer Champion Steve Playle on behalf of a Regenda
resident who was being harassed by a debt collection agency. The debt
collectors were chasing a debt that the resident understood had been
written off in 2002. Steve Playle investigated the matter with the Financial
Ombudsman Service and indeed confirmed the resident did not owe any
money to the debt collectors.
The story was featured in the Guardian newspaper and Jo commented;
“Our intervention has resulted in our resident no longer being held
responsible and harassed for this debt - a debt the collection agency
probably knew was uncollectable, but thought our resident or us would not
know this. I am so pleased with the excellent result!”
Jo’s pleased resident added; “I would just like to say that I am so very
grateful for the service that Regenda gave me and for having such a helpful
lady. I have received a great deal of help and support and my situation has
really improved. Thank you again for the Tenancy Support Service."
Shopping service extended to wider area
When the bad weather struck early in the year, many elderly residents struggled to get out to shop. Luckily Regenda sheltered schemes in
Liverpool had access to the W.E.L.C. Centre based in Liverpool 8, which provides a door to door shopping service for a nominal charge.
However, after a Regenda resident rang their local radio station to express their appreciation of this service, Frances Dunn, Area Manager for
Supporting People, who had heard the report on the radio, was so impressed she agreed to fund the W.E.L.C Centre service further so it can be
offered to many more older residents living across Merseyside.
Helen O’Flaherty Regenda Elderly Services Officer said “This is a great partnership working and I would like to thank the W.E.L.C Centre for the
extra care and added support they have given Regenda Sheltered Tenants.”
Kung Hei Fat Choy to Liverpool residents
Regenda joined its partners in the L1 Multi Agency Group to celebrate
Chinese New Year by personally delivering 177 Winter Warmer Hampers to
pre-selected elderly residents in the L1 area to help them through the cold
winter months.
The L1 Multi Agency Group delivering their hampers to
elderly residents of L1
Some very appreciative residents said:
“Thank you very much to the L1 Multi Agency Group” – Mrs Hume
“Very appreciated, thank you very much” – Mrs Dixon
“Happy with the hamper, thank you” – Miss E Lally
Masira
offers a helping hand
Are you or do you know people who are
struggling with administration, form filling
and completing official paperwork etc?
Then if you live in the North West area, help is at hand.
Volunteer Masira Mughal operates a ‘surgery’ from her
home and assists members of her local Asian community
with administration matters. She mainly offers help with
routine matters like opening a bank account, but
occasionally more complex activities such as completing
on-line criminal injuries claims.
Masira says she finds the whole thing very rewarding and
she is very modest about the work she does. She told
Belong; “I started helping my family as soon as I could
read and write, as most of my family, especially the older
generation could not. When I went to university I became
an interpreter for the Police and Immigration Services at
Manchester airport. After that, I worked with overseas
students at university and for other organisations like
Social Services and Barnardos.
Tell us what you know
not who you are
Crimestoppers is unique. Founded nationally in
1988, it is the only UK Independent Charity working
to help solve crimes. Cheshire Crimestoppers
comprises of volunteers drawn from across Cheshire
East, Cheshire West, Halton and Warrington.
Increasingly, witnesses to crime, and those who know who
may have committed a crime, are reluctant to go directly
to the Police, or to give evidence in court. We allow you to
avoid both by anonymously contacting a dedicated
national call number, 0800 555 111, with information
about crime, at any time, 365 days of the year.
20
belong issue 11
When I got married and had my own family, I found I
couldn’t give time on a regular basis to these projects. So I
just started helping members of my family and friends to
complete official paperwork for social security, housing,
income support and council tax etc. Word of mouth spread
and soon I was helping many more members of my
community. Now I do a whole range of correspondence
including tax credit applications and criminal injury claims
etc. I just love helping people where I can and saving them
hefty solicitor’s fees.”
For more information, contact Masira on
ads.support@hotmail.co.uk
or call 0773 1608 849
An administration fee may apply.
Callers are not asked for their name, or for any other
means of identification. A caller’s number can not be
traced and does not appear on itemised telephone
statements. We pass information to the Police but are not
part of them and no policeman will ever know who has
called us. In some cases, a successful prosecution may
result in the informant being eligible for a cash reward.
You may also contact us by e-mail through the national
website www.crimestoppers-uk.org where a fully encrypted
system protects your anonymity. The site also provides
more information about the work of Cheshire
Crimestoppers and about the fight against crime at a
national level.
Please keep our number 0800 555 111 in a handy position
near to your telephone, or pre-loaded onto your mobile.
You never know when you may have information that will
help to catch a criminal!
Regenda properties get
green light
Regenda has been working with specialist lighting
manufacturer Morgan Hope to make its
properties more eco-friendly and efficient.
A new lighting system has been installed in its sheltered
schemes; Pennine View, Rochdale, Denton St Lawrence,
Manchester, Burlington House, Poulton le Fylde and Heyes
House, Macclesfied.
The new system will help the properties reduce their carbon
footprint and cut energy costs for lighting by up to 90%
John Murray, Sales Director at Morgan Hope said: “The Caprice
lighting system is hugely energy efficient but also highly safety
conscious, always providing health and safety background
lighting even when it detects no movement. The beauty of this
is that it can be installed in areas such as public stairways and
corridors which for safety reasons should be lit 24/7. With the
system installed it should help the four buildings become more
eco friendly and efficient.”
Leslie Allsop, Regenda Scheme Manager for Burlington House
said: “The new system has had a huge impact on the public
spaces and communal areas in the building, really improving the
environment for residents making everything brighter and better
lit. I’m now looking forward to seeing the impact of the new
lighting system on our carbon footprint and energy efficiency.”
Mrs Margaret Cooke, a resident at Heyes House said: “The new
lights are much brighter and better situated, particularly in the
corridors, all in all a huge improvement on the old system.”
The properties now feature state of art lighting called Caprice.
This system uses innovative movement control technology
which is both economical, environmentally friendly and focused
on the safety of the residents. The lights have been installed in
the four properties public spaces, from the stairways to corridors
and lobbies. When the light detects movement in the area it
gives 100% output but once the space is empty for longer than
five minutes the lights dim to 50% output, then to a hibernation
state of only 10% output after a further 2.5 minutes. The new
system will help cut annual running costs by up to £40 per light
fitting and reduce carbon emissions across the four buildings.
Check out the new Money Matters
section at www.regendafirst.org.uk
Click on the ‘Money Matters’ section to learn
how you can make every penny count
There are advice packs available to download which give
guidance on how to claim all the benefits you are entitled to,
and how to manage your money and debts effectively
Should you require more specialised advice, Regenda works
closely with a number of different advice agencies and can put
you in touch with local services that will also be happy to assist.
Also visit www.regendafirst.org.uk for further information on:
•
•
•
Getting a home with us
Reporting repairs
Ways to pay your rent
You can also contact our Shared Service Centre on
0344 736 0066 for further help and advice.
St Vincent’s get a
Christmas reward
The dance troop performing at the lights switch on
St Vincent’s children ready to tuck into their chocolates
Every child at St Vincent de Paul School in
Liverpool 1 was given a selection box by
Regenda in December as a thank-you for
the brilliant work they have done over 2009
The school has participated in a wide range of
projects including the Young Voices, Powerful
Seaforth & Waterloo
Christmas Lights
switch on
The Seaforth and Waterloo Christmas lights
were switched on by the Mayor of Sefton
and celebrated with a Christmas fete and
dance troop performances by local schools.
Choices gun and knife crime project, numerous
safety projects, art and design sessions, safety
poster campaigns and healthy living projects.
The children recently had the chance to
decorate one of the Penguin Bananas which will
be displayed within the local community. All
these projects have been part funded by The
Regenda Group.
22
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West View Dream Scheme children singing carols at the
Freeborn Christmas lights switch on
youth
talk
Eden Bus
continues to
motor on
The Eden Bus is continuing to operate on the Limehurst
estate offering a valuable service reducing anti social
behaviour in the area. Seven volunteers from the Faith
sector are now providing this service.
Neil Newberry, Eden Team and Church Leader said; “The
Eden Bus has been running for over a year now reaching out
to the young people of Limeside. I believe it provides a fun,
safe environment that enables positive work with young
people on the streets. With our voluntary team, we want to
keep the bus running as a long term project.
Wyre students get
valuable advice
Our success has been one of gaining the young people's trust
and respect and having a regular group as part of the bus
activities.
The bus gave us clear indication that much more is needed
to reach out with a message of hope in the neighbourhood;
this is why we are introducing the Eden Project to Limeside.
The Eden Project consists of people moving into an area to
work with young people, children and families to shine hope
and bring positive changes to their neighbourhoods.”
John Norris, Oldham Metropolitan Council’s Neighbourhood
Manager for Failsworth & Hollinwood added; “The Eden Bus
is playing a very important part in our strategy to reduce anti
social behaviour in the Hollinwood area. By providing
activities in the heart of the community and engaging with
young people at the times we historically suffered from anti
social behaviour, the Eden bus and its workers have had a
real impact.”
Young Thornton student enjoying the
interactive advice sessions
Two Thornton primary schools and a
Fleetwood High School have benefited
from some valuable drug and alcohol
Freeborn House
Christmas Switch On
awareness sessions. Regenda funded the
one hour, five days slots in order to raise
awareness of the dangers of smoking,
drugs & alcohol and their potential
Freeborn House sheltered scheme in Thornton,
Lancashire received funding from the Lancashire
Regional Community Chest fund to buy four
permanent Christmas trees and lights. To celebrate
their arrival in December, the West View Dream
Scheme children entertained the residents by singing
carols around them during the switch on.
consequences to the year 5, 6 and 7 classes.
The Police and Fire Service also attended
the sessions to give the students further
information and advice.
Opening our doors
to board members
Regenda’s Board Members were offered a
repeat of the Shared Service Centre Open
Day that residents attended towards the
end of last year. Around ten Board
Members attended the Open Day held at
the end of January.
The day aimed to give an understanding of Regenda’s housing management
process including an explanation of how the repairs service worked in practice.
“It was exciting to see the
Shared
Service
Centre
in
operation and to feel the buzz
of activity.” Robin Burman
24
belong issue 11
Several members commented on how they felt the Open Day went:
“It was a real eye opener hearing how well the call centre staff deal
with a vast array of queries and how much knowledge they have
about the business to enable them to do their jobs well.” Sue Roberts
“The visit delivered a very helpful insight into the
functions of the Shared Service Centre, in particular
the opportunity to witness at first hand the handling
of calls from residents requesting action on repairs
or other assistance.” Stephen Conquer
“A very good session which was
both instructive and enjoyable.
We are definitely getting better
as a group.” Michael Brown
“I was especially impressed by the team working and
the ‘joined-up’ responses of the whole centre. It did
bring a welcome aspect to being a Board Member.”
Fran Parkinson
“I was impressed by the knowledge, competence
and enthusiasm of all the staff involved in the work
of the specialist teams, the repairs team and the
customer services advisors.” Derek Hancock
belong issue 10
05
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Other useful advice includes
•
26
Never give out personal details over the phone unless
you know for certain who you are talking to. If a caller
claims to be from an organisation you can check by
ending the call and re-dialling, using a number from
the phone book or directory enquiries
•
Never buy from or sell to callers at the door
•
Never agree to have work done by cold callers
•
When work needs doing, get at least three quotes
from reputable companies
•
Under trading standards laws there is a seven-day
cooling off period for any goods or services costing
more than £39.99 when you have a legal right to cancel
belong issue 11
I’ve heard re
ports that ro
gue traders
operating in
are
my area. Ca
n you offer a
advice?
ny
You are right to be cautious of bogus callers and
rogue traders. Some examples we know of include
a "council" employee claiming to be able to lower
council tax bills and an alarm company falsely
claiming they are working with the Police.
Our Advice to anyone who is faced with an unknown doorstep caller:
STOP - and think, have I made an appointment
with anybody? Am I expecting anybody?
CHAIN - Put the chain on before opening the
door. If you do not have one, get one fitted now. Only
use it when answering the door, never ever leave it on
at other times. It can slow down emergency services
and care providers who may need to get to you
quickly. Have a spy-hole fitted so you can check
who’s calling before opening the door.
CHECK - the identity of the person calling:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Take the identity card off the caller, close and lock the
door
Does the card have the name of the company they
represent on it?
Does it have a photograph on it and does it resemble the
person calling?
Does it have the name of the person calling?
Does it give their job description (i.e. Meter Reader)?
Does it look and feel like a genuine identity card?
If it is in a wallet, take it out and examine it
Further checks can be carried out by phoning the
company they claim to represent. Never use a
number printed on the card, always get the number
from the phone book or directory enquires. All
genuine companies will help you.
If you are not happy about the person calling or
have any suspicions at all, call the Police on 999.
The Police would rather attend and find that the
caller is genuine than call and find you have
become a victim.
involved
get
factfile
Affordable ways to own
a home of your own
Did you know that although you are
renting a home with us you could be
eligible to buy one of your own?
There are several ways of buying an affordable
home with The Regenda Group :
If you are a Secure tenant you may qualify to
buy your present home at a discount under the
‘Right to Buy’ scheme. Discounts of up to
£26,000 may be available depending on how
long you have lived in your home. We will usually
be able to tell you straight away whether or not
you qualify.
If you have been an Assured Periodic tenant
with us for 5 years or more, you may be able to
buy your present home at a discount. Current
discounts are up to £9,000 and properties
funded or built after 1 April 1997 will usually
qualify. We will usually be able to tell you
straight away whether or not you qualify.
Did you know that we also sell affordable new
homes under the very popular Shared
Ownership scheme? If you tell us where you
would like to live, we can let you know whether
we have any new developments to offer in that
area. If we do not have any new developments,
we may be able to tell you about existing shared
ownership homes that have come up for re-sale.
If you are interested in affordable
home ownership, including any of
the above options, please contact us
on 0344 736 0066 and ask for a
member of the Sales Team.
Tell us what you think...
WIN
£1000
Complete our next resident survey and
be entered into our Prize draw and you
could win 1 of 3 £1000 cash prizes!
Your views are very important to us, they are
hugely influential in shaping our plans and help us
to improve the quality and range of services we
provide to you.
At the beginning of May you will receive our resident
survey. We would be really grateful if you would
complete and return this survey because the more
surveys returned, the better we can understand your
needs.
Why do we do the surveys?
For three reasons – to find out how different groups of
residents use our services, what you think of them and
how you believe they could be improved.
We have teams which constantly look at how we can
make improvements for each of the main services we
provide, and then plan to bring the about the changes
needed. Residents are involved in this work. We will use
‘Belong’ to keep you informed about the results of this
work.
We will also use the results to help us develop our plans
for improving the neighbourhoods where you live and
to get up to date information about who lives in our
homes.
If you need help filling in your surveys or have any
questions about them, please contact the Business
Excellence Team on 0344 736 0066.
Got a viewpoint? Want to see something featured in the next
issue? Write to Belong, Regenda House, Enterprise Business
Park, Northgate Close, Horwich, Bolton BL6 6PQ or email:
belong@regenda.org.uk
It’s nice to treat yourself to the latest things
but always put your home 1st
Don’t lose your home to debt
tell us about it - help is available
call 0344 736 0066 for more information
there are many ways to pay - visit us online to find out how
www.regendafirst.org.uk