Spring 2014
Transcription
Spring 2014
2014 Mr & Mrs Cozens Wedding anniversary Spring 2014 8 Paragon Website Letting you know what you can access online on our website. 10 Fire Safety 14 Spring Baking Keeping you up-to-date on the lastest fire safety news. Recipes perfect for light Spring dishes. P16 16 Railton Close We welcome 48 new residents to Railton Close and look at the history of the sight. 28 Railton Close, Weybridge Getting in Peak Condition Paragon staff will be attempting to climb the three peaks in 24 hours, read to find out more... 32 Community Hero Awards Find out about Paragons’ local community heros and who won the awards! Paragon Peakies Community Hero Awards 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 1 P28 P32 P10 Fire Safety 23/04/2014 17:14:15 1 2 Search moves is moving online... Are you coming too? Search Moves is Elmbridge Housing Trust’s transfer application process, for people who live in the local area. We mentioned in the Winter Resident that the Search Moves scheme is moving online and for those interested, reapplication for the Search Moves Schemes starts soon! We’ll let you know by letter and email when you can reapply online, and you’ll have a month to do so. We’ll remind those who have not reapplied to do so, or applicants will risk their application being cancelled. During the reapplication period the current Search Moves website will operate as normal. Properties will be advertised for you to bid on. After reapplication we’ll inform you of your priority band. Existing bands awarded for medical reasons will be kept in most cases, but please complete the medical section of the form if this applies to you. Please let us know any changes in circumstances. Remember that if you are assessed in band B after re-registration, or remain in band B, your effective date will change to the date in which you were placed in band B, rather than the date of your application. Band C or D registration dates will be honoured. We’ll let you know by letter and email when you can reapply online. If you had previously applied to either Spelthorne or Elmbridge borough councils, you’ll now be managed by Paragon, so your reference number will change. Any local connection you had to either borough will remain. tings team t le e h t t c a Cont t. 01932 235 880 e. lettings@paragonchg.co.uk 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 2 23/04/2014 12:53:35 Spring 2014 HomeKey at is a ne system th li n o w e n r u o HomeKey is anage ol to help m to e iv ct e ff e quick and ur available sfer within o n a tr to g in ish residents w sing stock. RuTCHT hou r Remembe 75% of our empty properties go to the local authorities. We would envisage advertising approx. 25 properties over the year. The new system has been running since mid-January, and is available to residents with a connection to Richmond areas. To date we have had 167 residents apply to join the HomeKey system and are actively using it. Since this new system was launched we have advertised 5 properties, made 6 offers, and successfully moved 3 transfer applicants. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 3 • Residents cannot be registered with both HomeKey and Search Moves. • Both transfer schemes are moving online, and you’ll need to be online to register. • Having difficulty joining online and unsure of how to use the websites? - We would be happy to arrange a one-to-one training session to enable you to use the site fully. See the contact details on the previous page. If you wish to apply for a transfer you are required to set up a HomeSwapper account, if you do not already have one. We have created a step-by-step guide to help you with the application process, this is available on our website. We can also send you a printed copy in the post. 23/04/2014 12:53:36 3 4 Have you considered swapping your home? Over 100 residents came to our event Paragon held its first Mutual Exchange (MX) event on 11 February this year. The MX event gave residents an opportunity to find out about potential homes that they could swap with. It also gave residents a chance to sit down and chat with a member of staff, ask questions, and find out about HomeSwapper. Finding a home to move to can be a lengthy process. Paragon’s MX event has helped residents to find more matches in a shorter space of time. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 4 Over a hundred Paragon residents came along to the event meaning there were lots of properties to choose from. The event was a great success and many contact details were exchanged on the day! Due to the popularity of the event we will be looking to hold another event in the near future. In the meantime, we are offering a small advert space in future editions of The Resident where you can advertise your home. NG SWAPPI YOUR HOME os. y of phot de plent out, provi have a stand s; If you tidied your home best asset you have To make home’s worth only after home os of your re of it, but as e your res such pictu Take phot res outsid per? Featu take a garden, there any featu swap ade a it up. Are phing to persu : photogra park. home or a of your a river photos d take with pictures You shoul and tidy. is out it is clean the sun better. 0 when rally look and when daytime, al lighting gene the in 0 . and natur as inside bright e as well the outsid 0 from at its best, home ing your offer. A ion os show it has to Descript of the your phot what else ight some you have people know ce to highl Once to let the chan area. you need n gives you floor and local (Ground descriptio your home it on? of floor is . benefits t, what demand) tmen great an apar often in 0 If it’s ts are apartmen room? balcony? every a in it have ing - is 0 Do you al heat have centr s? 0 Do you the room one? sizes are if you have space? 0 What garden storage big is your other extra 0 How shed or have a 0 Do you Photos your r to swap In orde need you will r: home er at eithe to regist per.co.uk homeswap oves.org ingm or hous you have can Once , you ils. registered your deta upload 1 If you would like more information about mutual exchange or would like your home to appear in a future addition of The Resident please get in touch with the lettings team or contact Reshma Vyas on 01932 235 789. 23/04/2014 12:53:39 D iam Mr & Mrs Cozens Celebrating 60 years together t zens first me o C y le ir h S d Reg an g in ere both livin whilst they w n. hts of Londo the bright lig They use to attend the Abbey Community Centre in Westminster and enjoyed many a dance there, although Shirley says that Reg isn’t much of a dancer! They both say it wasn’t love at first sight, with Shirley always running away when Reg and his brother entered the community centre! But after persistence and a lot of trips to the pictures down Victoria, Shirley soon got the love bug for Reg. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 5 The secret to a happy marriage, is give and take, you’ve got to learn to give and take, if you don’t do that you’ve got nothing really. Spring 2014 ond 5 W edd ing ! The couple were married at St Matthews Church, Great Peters Street in Westminster on the 13th March 1954 at 3:30 in the afternoon and will be celebrating on 15 Saturday 2014, with friends and family at their local club at Bradshaw House! To congratulate the couple, Paragon arranged for a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a frame to display their letter from the Queen. They also had gifts and cards from their neighbours throughout the day! Shirley spoke of how much she loves living at Bradshaw House, “It’s quiet, peaceful, it’s a nice place to live, with lovely people”. Shirley is a regular bingo player and plays around 5 times a week, whilst Reg loves a flutter on the horses! It’s lovely to see two such happy people within their community and we wish them all the best. 23/04/2014 12:53:40 6 Winner!! In February the first edition of the sheltered housing newsletter hit door steps! Each newsletter was packed with up-todate news and stories for each scheme. The scheme managers are taking an active role in this, writing articles and taking photographs. February’s edition also contained a Sudoku puzzle; after many entries the lucky winner was randomly picked from a hat, (Mr Peter Trounce of Bishops Hill in Walton-on-Thames). Lauren Cole and Bryony Warren from the Design and Communications team went to visit Mr Trounce to present him with his prize. We’d like to thank everyone for their entries, keep a look out for the next competition as it could be you that we’re visiting next! ing Elvis has left the build Outside it may have been cold and wet, but some of our neighbours devastated by flood waters at Marling Court Residential Care Home, had a Valentine’s Day to remember. re & Here, the here the elsew As part of an exhibition Graham Underhill was showing at the Riverhouse Arts Centre in Walton, called ‘Here, There and the Elsewhere’, are some edited memories of our resident, the late Mrs Josie Ayling who had lived in Walton all her life. Visit www.herethereandtheelsewhere.com to view a short film which has soundtrack memories from Josie and some pupils of Ashley Primary School. Josie had a remarkable memory for almost 98 and contributed many memories and some photographs to the exhibition. It is with much regret she passed away late last year and will be unable to view the completed item, although her two sons attended the exhibition. On 14 February, Elvis entered the building. A vision in red, he sang his way to our hearts, song after song of music to reminisce by “The King” himself. Jailhouse Rock, Suspicious Minds, (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear, All Shook Up – he sang them all. The residents and staff danced the afternoon away. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 6 23/04/2014 12:53:43 Ha e c i v r e s n ndyper so We can: From 1 April 2014, during the first 3 months of a new tenancy the following residents will be able to request 3½ hours of the Handyperson’s time to help them with the smaller jobs: • • • Martin Mic We are pleased to announce that we are expanding the Handyperson Service in order to assist more of Paragon’s residents. Spring 2014 New tenants who are over 65 years of age Single parents with children under 12 Tenants moving into supported housing Also from 1 July 2014, if you are a leaseholder over 65 years of age and living within a sheltered housing scheme or within a development designated for the elderly you can book 2 hours of the Handyperson Service for a small charge. • • • • Put together flat pack furniture Fit shelves Hang pictures Fit bathroom accessories Paragon will provide the consumable type materials such as plugs and screws, you provide the item that you would like fixed. If you are an elderly leaseholder and would like to book an appointment for this service you can do this from 1 June 2014. Electrical work, gardening and decorating are not included in the Handyperson Service. A big thank you We'd like to thank all residents who filled in an HDF form recently. We appreciate you taking the time to do so. By filling in the form you help keep our records up to date and improve our services to you. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 7 200 people who completed the form were lucky winners of shopping vouchers. 23/04/2014 12:53:44 7 8 Have you logged onto the new Paragon website yet? Why not check out the new Paragon website now? You can... It’s easy to navigate on your computer or smartphone. We are offering more of our services online. You can now pay your rent and report a repair through the website. You can find out more information about the organisation and our services. Find out what’s happening in Resident Involvement and learn how to get involved with your community through them or how to apply for the Challenge Fund! 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 8 23/04/2014 12:53:45 Spring 2014 Find your officers Not sure who your Tenancy Services Officer of Income Officer is? You can look this up on the 'Contact us' page. What’s happening? In the ‘What’s happening’ tab you’ll find even more exciting information, including news, events and also useful community information. Publications We’ve recently been keeping our ‘Publications’ page up-to-date, you can find the link to these in the top right hand corner of the website. We have a great range uploaded to the website, past and present Annual Reports, Resident Magazines, Leasehold newsletters and many more! You can also read all the up-to-date policies in this section. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 9 23/04/2014 12:53:46 9 10 Paragon has responsibilities for the home in which you live. One of those is making sure that the structure of buildings and communal areas within them meet fire and safety requirements. Fire! FREE! Smoke alarms The health and safety of our residents is always a key priority for the group and we have made significant investment in our management of fire safety, including fire risk training for our housing management teams. Last year we carried out 650 fire risk assessments and these assessments continue each year. We encourage our residents to be safe in their home. If you don't have smoke alarms fitted in your Trust property, please contact us on 01932 235 874. We can book an appointment to supply and install smoke alarms in your home completely FREE of charge. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 10 We are about to embark on a major fire safety improvement programme and part of the programme will involve regular inspections of the communal areas and cupboards within blocks. We also have a duty to make sure you can escape in an emergency. Staircases and the communal areas within the block are the routes for the fire-fighters, as for you and your neighbours. This means that we have to be strict about what you can leave outside your property. Our policy is that you may not use communal areas for: • Storage of your possessions • Dumping unwanted goods • Placing decorative items outside your front door • Storing flammable items inside cupboards These things restrict the escape route or could give off smoke that would affect you or hinder the Fire Service in their rescue duties. It is our duty to keep you safe from the risk of fire. If you know others who are storing items in communal areas, please contact your tenancy services officer, so we can ensure your exit routes are safe. Please help us to help you and keep communal areas and cupboards clear. 23/04/2014 12:53:47 Spring 2014 11 Paragon’s Fire Safety Team Doubles in Size Over the last 4 months Gordon Alexander, Project Manager – Fire Safety has been extremely busy in assessing the fire safety priorities within our stock and establishing a strategy to deal with this important and legal requirement. Gordon has now been joined by Steve Kallagher Project Surveyor – Fire Safety. Like Gordon, Steve previously worked for the London Borough of Southwark which unlike our own stock has high rise blocks up to 26 storeys and has almost 40,000 dwellings for rent so their collective knowledge in this area is very extensive. The Fire Safety team of Gordon and Steve are currently prioritising our stock so that fire prevention improvements can be carried out for those blocks that have a greater priority. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 11 Steve Kallagher These include our supported housing schemes, elderly care homes and sheltered schemes as well as our general need stock. A number of schemes have already been completed but works will greatly accelerate with a tender framework agreement in place by April which will allow a continuous roll-out of works from an approved list of specialist contractors. If you have any queries or concerns relating to fire safety in your property please email us at firesafetyteam@paragonchg.co.uk or telephone Gordon or Steve on 01932 235 874. 23/04/2014 12:53:47 12 ck Looking to get ba into work? It sounds strange, but it can often cost money to get back into work. For example, you want to work but you can’t afford to get to the interview, or you need a qualification to work but it costs too much money to get it. We have conducted a small trial of the B2WF over the last few months and these are some of the ways that the money has been used: • We paid for travel costs for a month for Rachel who had just got back into work. This saved her £100. • We paid for Simon to get a Construction Skills Certificate Scheme (CSCS) card. Without this he couldn’t work on a building site but he couldn’t afford to pay for the card. Simon has now got the job that he wanted. • We paid for Jack to get an Award for Personal Licence Holders (APLH) qualification which means that he has now been able to find work in the bar industry. Even when you are back into work, the first few weeks can be really expensive. You might have to pay for travelling to work everyday or having to buy special clothes like overalls or work boots. We know that it’s a worry but we can help. We have launched a new scheme called “The Back To Work Fund” (B2WF) which has been designed to help solve this problem. If you are looking for work or just got back into work apply to the B2WF for a grant (you won’t have to pay us back), giving us details of what you want the money for and how this will directly help you. To apply Call us on 01932 235830 or email welfarebenefits@paragonchg.co.uk and type “b2wf” in the subject box. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 12 These are just a few examples and we will consider paying for anything that may help you get a job. All that we ask is that you provide us with proof for what the money has been used for, for example, a copy of a completed course or qualification or receipts for purchases made. 23/04/2014 12:53:47 13 Fighting the floods Paragon has worked closely with local authorities to help alleviate the distress caused to many of our customers during the recent floods. During the exceptional weather conditions, Paragon pulled together a Rapid Response Team, headed by Rachael Smart, Housing Manager. This involved over 30 officers from all parts of the Group, getting out and about around our estates. We particularly focused on our most vulnerable customers and visited them on a daily basis; so much so that one resident actually said to us "it is lovely seeing you all every day but I really am ok, you do not need to come so often!". This work really highlights why it is so important that residents fill in Household Details Forms as we could identify straight away those people who were vulnerable or might need additional help. Paragon were right on the frontline supporting our residents by: • Visiting around 20 of our estates covering nearly 1,000 properties • Deploying over 500 Floodsaxs • Prevented over 20 unstable trees that were a danger to local residents and property Emergency supplies • Raising over 1,000 additional repairs (largely fencing and roofing) • Stocking up on bottled water, safety equipment and protective Unstable trees clothing and • Providing 10 portaloos in the worst affected areas The main issue we dealt with was the high water table, which created blockages in peoples' homes and drainage systems, resulting in sewage seeping into people’s gardens. We worked closely with local authority housing teams, Thames Water and the environmental health team. The worst affected areas were in the borough of Elmbridge. The cooperation and response of the Council and Paragon was well planned, united and resulted in a sensitive and appropriate response where needed. We would also like to thank our residents who were at all times polite, responsive and appreciative. Let’s hope this does not happen again but if it does we are now fully alert and properly equipped to deal with any future emergency of this nature. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 13 23/04/2014 12:53:48 14 Recipes lighter dishes for brighter days p Pea & mint sou Prep: 20 mins Cook: 25 mins d Hot cross breain g & lemon pudd Prep: 20 mins Cook: 40 mins Ingredients Need a way to use up your leftover hot cross buns? Try this • 200g lemon curd • 2 large eggs Serves 4 • 200ml double cream • 200ml milk • ½ tsp vanilla extract • 4 tbsp caster sugar • little lemon zest Method 1. Butter a 1-litre baking dish that will quite snugly fit the buns. Cut each bun into 3 slices, and sandwich back together with a generous spreading of curd. Arrange buns in the dish. 2. Whisk egg, cream, milk and remaining curd, then sieve into a jug with the vanilla and 3 tbsp of the sugar. Pour over the buns and stand at room temperature for 30 mins for the custard to soak in. 3. Heat oven to 160C/140C fan/ gas 3. Scatter the remaining sugar and lemon zest over the pudding. Bake for 30-40 mins until the top is golden and the custard gently set. Stand for 5 mins, then serve with cream or vanilla ice cream, if you like. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 14 • 1 tbsp olive oil • knob of butter • 1 potato, cut into small dice Serves 6 • 1 litre hot vegetable stock • 900g frozen petits pois • ½ bunch spring onion, sliced, plus a few extra to serve • ½ small bunch mint, leaves picked, plus a few extra to serve • 85g parmesan (or vegetarian alternative), very finely grated • knob of butter, for the dish • 4 stale hot cross buns Ingredients Method 1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a heavy based pan. When foaming, add the spring onions and potato. Gently fry without colouring for about 5 mins. Stir in the stock, bring to the boil and simmer for 10 mins or until the potato is tender. 2. Stir in the peas, bring to the boil again, then cook for about 3 mins until they are just done. Remove the pan from the heat, add the mint leaves and whizz in a blender or food processor until smooth. 3. To make the Parmesan biscuits, heat the grill to high. Line a baking sheet with baking parchment and divide the grated Parmesan into 6 long strips. Grill for 1 min or until the cheese has melted and is lightly golden. While still warm and a bit flexible, release the biscuits from the baking parchment with a palette or cutlery knife, then cool until firm. 4. To serve, heat the soup and divide between 6 bowls. Scatter with mint and sliced spring onions, if you like, and serve with the Parmesan biscuits on the side. 23/04/2014 12:53:49 15 A sign of change for a Molesey community A new resident group for Grovelands and Palmers Grove has proven to be effective with quick success, thanks to the initiative of some committed residents, Paragon & Elmbridge Borough Council. The new Chairman, Reece Maycock, tells us their story so far: Since moving into Grovelands 4 years ago, I had ambitions of starting a residents group, having had experience of both in house training with Elmbridge Housing Trust in the past, and having set up a couple of residents groups in other locations before. On behalf of the residents, I have already successfully managed to have new road signs installed with some numbering, as visitors found our odd and even door Grovelands and Palmers Grove already has a level numbering system somewhat of community spirit and friendship between diverse unique and confusing here. neighbours, and I saw the chance of building Elmbridge Council fitted these in on this by bringing together other residents and February. forming a new group to encourage and develop on Working with Paragon we are community spirit, better tenant involvement with now looking at starting to make Paragon Housing, and better communication with improvements on behalf of Elmbridge Borough Council. residents, using the feedback After the positive responses to the idea of forming received from our survey sent out Grovelands Area Residents Association, then when initially forming our group. a successful first meeting to nominate official positions and officially form GARA, the positivity is We hope in future to develop on our newly formed community continuing thanks to efforts between us and both with some social events, resident Paragon and Elmbridge Borough Council. newsletters, a dedicated website, and also a Neighbourhood Watch t n e volvem in t n e scheme in conjunction id s e r Contact with Surrey Police. t. 01932 235 964 e. getinvoled@paragonchg.co.uk 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 15 23/04/2014 12:53:51 16 Welcome to Railton Close Paragon welcomes 48 new residents to Railton Close in Weybridge. The development, formally known as 'The Dell' is finally complete. Built by Paragon in partnership with Brooklands Museum Trust and English Heritage, the development borders Brooklands racing circuit – the world’s first purpose-built racetrack. The name of the development is inspired by the Napier Railton car, which was driven to the all-time lap record at Brooklands in 1935. As part of the development, the Competitors’ Tunnel – once used by drivers to enter the track – has been restored. It will now provide residents with a glimpse of racing history every time they leave their homes. A rainwater harvesting system significantly reduces water usage at the site, and all homes include low-energy lighting and waterefficient taps, with appliances ‘A’-rated for energy efficiency. And a new green space and play area have been created – complete with a giant toy car, a plane and a motorbike on springs. The official opening of Railton Place took place on 1 May and was hosted by ex Formula One racing driver Tiff Needell. The entire Brooklands racing circuit is a Conservation Area, with parts of the track designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument. As such, sustainability has been at the heart of the project since its inception, and Brooklands Museum Trust and Paragon Housing have worked with English Heritage throughout to ensure the sensitive handling of the restoration work. All properties combine contemporary style with eco-friendly features such as highly-insulated walls, roofs and floors, all of which exceed current building requirements for new-build homes. Lambert Court 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 16 Play area Public footpath access through the Railton Close site at the end of Locke King Road has also been preserved. People walking along the footpath will be able to view the tunnel, and a new history signage board which aims to introduce a new generation to Brooklands’ glorious past. On the following page you can see a timeline of how the Brooklands site has evolved. 23/04/2014 12:53:53 17 Holden Court 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 17 23/04/2014 12:53:55 18 A place in history 1906–7 Brooklands, the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit, is built by local landowner Hugh Locke King. 1913 1907 A 100-mile massed start cycle race takes place at Brooklands. These events become hugely popular at the Track in the 1930s. Percy Lambert becomes the first man to cover 100 miles in an hour in front of a large Brooklands crowd. Percy Lambert 1907 S F Edge sets a world 24-hour record at Brooklands, driving 1,581 miles in a 60HP Napier. 1937 Start of the bicycle 100km race 1909 Brooklands becomes one of the first aerodromes in Britain. 1919 The first non-stop transatlantic flight is made by a Brooklandsbuilt Vickers Vimy. 1926 The RAC organises the first British Grand Prix at Brooklands, constructing sand chicanes along the Finishing Straight. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 18 23/04/2014 12:54:00 19 1946 1935 John Cobb sets a Brooklands lap record that still stands today, reaching an average speed of 143.44 mph in his Napier Railton. With the government unable to release Brooklands until 1949, the site is sold to VickersArmstrongs. Motor racing at Brooklands becomes no more than a memory. 2003 Initial discussions take place about building affordable housing close to the historic Brooklands track. 2014 Railton Place is completed – and a new chapter in Brooklands’ history begins to take shape. Railton Napier 1939 The entire Brooklands site is requisitioned by the government and used to produce aircraft including Hurricane fighters and Wellington bombers. 1962 First flight of the prototype Vickers VC10 – the largest aircraft solely built in the UK. 1987 The Brooklands Museum Trust is launched. 1990 The British Aerospace factory at Brooklands closes. Some 18,500 aircraft were built and flown at the site between 1908 and 1990. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 19 23/04/2014 12:54:07 20 Do you want to reduce your energy bill? Keeping up with the bills is a big worry and the tips can help save money. As well as switching your supplier, there are other things that you can do to cut your energy bills. • Turn down your thermostat – reducing room temperature by just 1 degree can cut your heating bill by around £65 a year, according to the Energy Saving Trust. • Turn down radiators in rarely used or empty rooms. • Programme the heating to turn off when you are not home – Make sure that the boiler programmer only comes on when you need it. Why not set your heating to turn off 30 minutes before you leave the house? • Replace light bulbs – Energy saving light bulbs can help you easily cut your energy bills. They can last ten times longer than a standard light bulb and use 75 % less electricity. If you replace all of the bulbs in your house with energy saving ones, you could save about £60 a year. • Switch off lights when not in use and use the best bulb for the size of room. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 20 rgy Get an ene eter mart M monitor /S This is a simple gadget that estimates how much energy you are using so you can see where you can cut back. Call us on 01932 235830 or email welfarebenefits@paragonchg. co.uk and type “I want a monitor” in the subject box for more information. • Choose cheaper to run gadgets – If you are replacing an appliance, you can cut your bills by choosing the most energy efficient model. • Don’t leave electrical goods on standby – switch it off at the plug if possible. Nearly all electrical and electronic appliances can safely be turned off without upsetting their systems. • Draw your curtains – Help to keep the heat inside your rooms. • Make sure that your radiators are not obstructed. • Is your water too hot? – If you have to add cold water to a bath then your cylinder thermostat is set too high. Set it to around 60 degrees. • Bath “v” shower – having a shower uses 40% of the water required for a bath. 23/04/2014 12:54:07 21 We can help too We’re also kicking off with a new initiative which will help insulate your walls and loft keeping the heat in the house and the cost of heating down. • Boil the kettle with only as much water as you need. • Don’t leave the fridge door open and avoid putting hot or warm food straight into the fridge. • Washing clothes at 30 degrees can be just as effective for normal loads. Also, use full loads or economy programmes when running your washing machine or dishwasher. • Avoid using tumble dryers – Where possible, dry clothes outdoors or on indoor dryers. • If you have a bank account and aren’t paying by Direct Debit, you could be losing a lot of money. Direct Debit is usually the cheapest way of paying as most suppliers offer a discount if you pay this way. • If you are in receipt of a bill in the post which you then pay by cash or cheque, if you pay within 14 days you may receive up to 6 % off. This will vary from supplier to supplier so ask them and see what they say. • Prepayment meters are usually the most expensive way to pay for gas and electricity. Try asking your supplier if you can move to a cheaper way to pay like Direct Debit. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 21 To do this we’ve asked Homeworks Energy who have been working with us for the last year or so to come and carry out a brief survey of your home. They would look at how much heat is lost at the moment – this only takes about half an hour. They will then make an appointment which is convenient with you to install cavity wall insulation and loft insulation if this hasn’t already been done. If you’d like an appointment, call 0800 011 3375 otherwise they will give you a call or leave a card if they are in your area. There will be other companies out there asking if they can do this work H C for you so look for T WA the Homeworks id OUT! pendant when they call to see you. If you have any queries please contact Liz Yates on 01932 235 912. 23/04/2014 12:54:08 N TS AC T TE AN Goodbye Rohima! We wish you every success! Many of you will have met Resident Involvement Officer, Rohima Khatun over the past couple of years. Rohima has been inspirational and enthusiastic about resident involvement from her first day with Paragon. She helped with so many projects, challenges and events it’s difficult to name but a few. She is passionate about working with young people, and helping to improve their lives. Her work with our younger residents on the Stamp Out Boredom summer project and evenings in Reemo’s café on the St John’s estate made her a popular and friendly face. Rohima was also key to the wonderful Christmas Tea Dance held in December, where we had over 100 older residents from across Paragon attend and enjoy the festivities. A few of her closest resident friends joined her for lunch at the Cromwell Centre to say goodbye. She leaves Paragon to continue her passion for involving residents with a new role at Kensington & Chelsea. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 22 IO N 22 Mr Roy Weatherley of Langdon Park CO MMIT TEE It is with sadness that we report the recent death of Roy Weatherley. Roy had been a resident at Langdon Park in Teddington since it opened. He was very active in the Richmond Tenants Action committee and vocal in standing up for residents. Roy was the first Tenants’ Rep at Langdon Park and worked hard to ensure any problems were dealt with quickly, both with Paragon and the managing agent. Roy attended the local residents meetings on a regular basis. Within Paragon Roy attended a lot of training events. He made sure that he was present at all the important meetings. His views have helped shape the service that Paragon delivers. Although he could be critical of Paragon he was also very proud of the organisation, and the important services that it provides and very willing to promote the organisation with outside agencies like SWIG and TPAS. Paragon sends its best wishes to Roy’s family and a number of staff and residents attended Roy’s funeral. 23/04/2014 12:54:09 23 How do I increase my share? CONTACT Our Sales Team Do you want to own more of your own home? Purchasing additional shares in your home couldn’t be easier... t. 01932 235949 e. sales@paragonchg.co.uk Case House 85–89 High Street Walton-on-Thames Surrey KT12 1DZ As a shared owner you can increase the share you own in your property at any time, in most cases up to full ownership. The rent due on the equity you do not own will be reduced according to how much additional equity you wish to purchase in your property. We are currently offering a refund of the original valuation fee and up to £500 (inc.VAT) towards legal fees if purchase 25% or more of the equity.* * To be settled upon completion 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 23 23/04/2014 12:54:09 24 Spring Gardens Concerned about trees? The recent storms caused many trees around our properties to become unstable, we dealt with a vast number of calls from concerned residents. Now the storms are behind us, we want to hear from you if you’re concerned about any of the trees in rear gardens and communal areas of our properties, so we can come and access the situation. Under the current terms of our tenancy agreements, residents would have responsibility for these areas and any associated tree works / inspections. However, we have many residents who may not have planted these trees and also may not have the money to deal with what’s there. During this amnesty, we would be providing an inspection of any tree’s and also its removal at our cost if needed. Please contact your Tenancy Services Officer (TSO). Responsibilities of Quadron throughout the coming growing season: Grass Cutting Summer Fortnightly from April (16 Cuts) Apply Herbicide to Hard Standing Once Annually – April Furniture Inspection Fortnightly Initial Shrub Border Maintenance Once Annually – March Routine Shrub Border Maintenance Summer (15 Visits) Litter Bin Collection Housing Sites – Fortnightly Initial Rose Border Maintenance Once Annually – March Routine Rose Border Maintenance Summer (15 Visits) Formative Hedge Cutting (1 Visit) August 1 – Oct 1 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 24 23/04/2014 12:54:11 25 Challenge Fund and Faraday Place After consulting with the Residents Paragon’s resident involvement team applied for a Grant from the Challenge Fund this money provided food for a BBQ for the Residents in the gardens of Faraday Place. The BBQ was such a success we applied again to the Challenge Fund for help toward taking over the back garden of the flats to give it some colour and make it more attractive for residents to sit in. As you can see from the picture the Spring is here and the daffodils look lovely, we have a way to go before we have completed the planting, but thanks to the Challenge Fund and help from Quadron it’s a more colourful and enjoyable garden to sit in and enjoy the fresh air. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 25 An instant hedge comes to the Firs Residents of The Firs sheltered scheme in Claygate got a surprise from our estates services and grounds maintenance team this Spring, as a fully grown hedge trees appeared on lorry to be planted along the garden boundary line. A fork lift truck delicately lifted the rows of pre-grown hedging from the lorry into place. A trench was dug for the roots of the hedge to take hold and the finished result looked stunning, surrounded by the other pretty tulips and daffodils in the garden. 23/04/2014 12:54:14 26 ve Pl ay at Palgra Whilst at City Wharf Tuesday 18th March – Scheme Manager, Rose Liddle and several of the residents, baked homemade cakes and pastries to sell. The charity event they were raising money for was For Children with Cystic Fibrosis. It is the charity’s 50th year and this sort of event was going on all round the country. One our resident’s great grandsons has Cystic Fibrosis and it just shows how theses lovely people come together to make things better for those in need. The amount raised was a fantastic £146.50. That’s a lot of cake! Very well done to all those who baked and those that bought and enjoyed the cakes! Also, this same group of generous people at City Wharf raised £200 for Macmillan as well. As part of our partnership work Paragon celebrated the opening of the Pocket Park at Palgrave House in March. This project which brings back into use a piece of derelict land adjacent to Palgrave is a really good example of partnership working. Paragon and Richmond Council have shared the cost of completing the work – but the park will be maintained by Richmond going forward. It is already well used and we have had a number of meetings with residents to ensure that any of their concerns are dealt with. Clear out the clutter Residents of Northumbria Court had a spring clean and donated their unwanted items to a fund raising event held over two days. People were snapping up the bargains at the Jumble Sale and raised £60 for Cancer Research, Animal Rescue, Richmond Foodbank and Richmond Museum. A big thank you to all those who brought goods to sell and also to those who purchased items at the sale. Your contribution is greatly appreciated. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 26 23/04/2014 12:54:15 27 at g n i l i Abse ge Fields a r a c i V en by ertak se d n u e being rs. Th ks are of abseile mpleted r o w these alist team y been co d tl ci ce a spe ave recen have noti e warmth h l th l s work idents wi ments in nefit of e s v e be and r ant impro e added h c t fi signi flats with lls. ir bi of the d heating e c redu ency effici y g r e n nd the e ton a prove , Lushing obtained m i o st de ve Work ats at Lyn ay. We ha he cost t fl w r o 0 e % f nal nd of 9 d 100 des exter are u n l l u a f x Cro nt to ich inclu O gra the h an EC e works w replacing ills, and s s , of the rk repairs l window hout a o n ug w rder brick uate exter walls thro d in o l q n a e A n d . r a e n in xt io o the e sulat tion t filling vity wall in nd disrup ding, all a ol ca with d expense sing scaff u i o y to av tomers b us our c During February half-term Paragon’s resident involvement team ran an extra event at the cinema for families that had never been successful in getting tickets for our Christmas event. Over 140 people attended – most of whom were new to Paragon events. They all watched “Frozen” and the buzz in the cinema was very positive. Marc Cridland After the film a few families stayed to watch Marc Cridland, a resident inspector from Whitton who lead a sing along for the kids which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. We are pleased to say we have had a number of parents get in touch since to say thank you. It gave the family a chance to do something with the kids in a wet half-term. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 27 23/04/2014 12:54:18 28 Getting in peak condition From Left: Mark Rothwell Martin Lawton Louise Williams Karen Lagden Hannah Elford Charles Ellis Amy-Jane Linehan Steve Moody New team members not pictured: Preeti Sounthe Martin Watson Pat O’Riordan Larry Eydmann A group of 12 Paragon colleagues have come together to raise money for two local community charities by taking on the adventurous 3 Peaks Challenge. The gruelling 3 Peaks Challenge is a test of stamina, strength and determination as the team must hike with pace up the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within a 24 hours time frame. Starting in Scotland the team will scale the highest of the peaksBen Nevis at 1344m, then travel 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 28 to the Lake District to hike up Scafell Pike, at 996m and end in Wales in order to reach the final summit of Snowdon at 723m. The ‘Paragon Peakies’, are hoping to gain sponsorship from friends, family, colleagues, local businesses and suppliers to raise for money for The Princess Alice Hospice in Esher, and Shooting Stars Children’s hospice in Middlesex. Shooting Star Chase is a leading children’s hospice in Middlesex and is a charity caring for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families. 23/04/2014 17:14:16 k 29 So why are the Paragon Peakies so up for the challenge? Charles Ellis spoke about the mission: lets-talk.indd 1 The idea of the 3 Peaks Challenge appealed to us, as it is well known for being a real test of agility and stamina. We wanted a challenge that would bring together colleagues from different teams within the organization who shared similar interests. It was also important to us to support charities that care for others in our local communities. We know that Paragon residents use and support both the Princess Alice Hospice and The Shooting Star Hospice. The Paragon Peakies will start the challenge on 26th June. If you’d like support the team in their mammoth 3 peaks challenge you can donate on-line at www.justgiving.com/teams/ Paragon3Peaks or you can make a donation at the office, 85-89 High Street, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, KT12 1DZ. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 29 16/04/2014 11:01:22 In January 2014 we met with a group of involved residents to talk about how we communicate with you more effectively on the phone. We wanted to listen to residents’ honest opinions about how we could make telephone communications better. As a result of this discussion, and discussions we’ve had with staff, we are making some changes to our telephone communications which you can read about in the booklet enclosed with this magazine. We are also changing our phone number on 8 May 2014 to one number that it low cost when dialled from both land line and mobile, as more of our residents are choosing to contact us on their mobile phones. We have also enclosed a handy fridge magnet for you to stick on your fridge with the new number on. We’d like to say thank you to those residents who attended the focus group. It was a lively discussion, and we hope that the changes we are making will improve telephone communications for all residents. 23/04/2014 12:54:20 30 Changes to gas servicing PH Jones has been selected as the provider of the Gas Servicing and Breakdown Service and are taking over from Robert Heath Heating. The new contract will start on 02 June 2014. The contract has been let for 3 years with the option to extend for a further 2 years. PH Jones are Since it’s formation in 1963, PH Jones has continued to grow and now employs over 600 staff. • A dedicated team located at Case House The company expanded into the social housing • Local employment market in the early 1990’s opportunities via its with maintenance contracts Apprenticeship Scheme sitting firmly at the core of the • Contributions and/or company’s growth. sponsorship of local PH Jones are part of the events British Gas Group and are looking forward to working Smith & Byford – with Paragon to deliver Communal boiler repairs a great service that puts residents safety first. From 01 April 2014 Smith & Byford will be carrying The new contract will deliver out the Gas Servicing a range of benefits and value and Gas Breakdown for residents, which include: Repairs to all of Paragons scheme’s that are served More flexibility in the choice by a communal boiler. The of appointments with service was previously the addition of evening provided by Industraheat. and Saturday morning appointments and: They are committed to the creation of sustainable 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 30 local communities and are looking forward to meeting residents over the coming months. All of the engineers with wear a uniform, carry ID badges and travel in a branded Smith & Byford van. If you wish to report a fault with your heating or hot water and this is provided through a communal boiler please contact the repairs team and choose option 3. 23/04/2014 12:54:20 31 New contract for Willmott Dixon Willmott Dixon Partnerships have been selected as the provider of the repairs service. The new contract will start on 02 June 2014. • A programme of Property MOT’s to be carried out to all Paragon properties over the first 3 years of the contract via a dedicated MOT delivery team. Willmott Dixon has confirmed its’ commitment to the residents of Paragon to ensure that all elements of the new contract are delivered to a high standard and provide excellent value for money and great customer service. • More flexibility in the choice of appointments with the addition of Evening and Saturday morning appointments The longevity of the new contract, 5 years with the scope to extend for a further 3 years, will enable Willmott Dixon and Paragon to bring added value to the service provided to residents by including: • A dedicated team to deal with communal repairs to ensure speedy completion thus reducing inconvenience for multiple numbers of residents Smith & Byford will also carry out electrical testing of the fixed wiring over the next two years. If your property requires an electrical test, you will receive an appointment letter from Smith and Byford. They will also undertake any minor remedial works at the same time, or if more major works are required, this will be passed to R & MA Stewart who will carry out these works. If you have any further queries regarding this electrical test please contact David Mason or Bianca Ponton on 01932 235946. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 31 • Local employment opportunities via its Apprenticeship Scheme, WDP have committed to employing 2 apprentices per year on this contract covering all aspects of the work required to deliver the contract including traditional building trades and office based roles recruitment for these roles will begin in April. Please be sure to check the WDP web site (www.willmottdixongroup. co.uk/careers) for full details regarding these opportunities and directions on how to apply. 23/04/2014 12:54:21 32 2 April 2014 The Paragon Community Hero Awards were launched last year, as we asked our residents to help us seek out the people who were true Heroes in the local community. Those people who go out of their way to help others, and it’s these people we felt worthy of celebrating. Residents from across many of our communities sent their nominations to Paragon, where Jean Corbett from the Paragon Residents Council and Ann Netts, outgoing Chair of the RuTCHT Tenants Action Committee and member of the Residents council took on the challenge of finding the Paragon Community Heroes of 2014. This years’ awards ceremony, which was held on Wednesday 1st April at Mercedes Benz World, built on the successes of last years event, celebrated the Community Heroes of 2014. We filmed the winners’ journeys in a series of short films. These films help describe the unique achievement of this years’ award winners and truly capture the magic of these wonderful people. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 32 23/04/2014 12:54:21 33 The 2014 Award Winners Paragon Good Neighbour – Dave Hobbs Dave lives in Hampton and was nominated by his neighbours at Fulmer Close for providing continuous support across the estate. Paragon Resident Community Champion – Joan Swift Joan is a resident of Kemble Close and has been very active on helping to improve the quality of life for all her neighbours. Over the last year Joan has also become involved in our resident scrutiny programme so Joan is increasingly helping to improve services across Paragon. Community Champions – Sheila & Patrick Samuels Sheila and Patrick are at the centre of much of the community activity on St John’s Estate in Walton. They work tirelessly to improve the quality of life on the estate. Inspirational Young Person – Dan Knight Dan spends most of his spare time working on projects locally – he helps with Stamp Out Boredom; has helped with the local REEMO’s Café since the start; is a regular in the Resident Inspection Team. Chairs Awards – Ann Netts & Sam Thompson The award this year is for two women who have given up so much time to ensure that the resident’s voice is heard at the centre of Paragon. They have led the 2 main Resident’s Committees through much change and always been able to ensure that the residents voice is heard. Both are standing down this year after many years of service. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 33 It is true to say that over the course the evening, these short films made many people shed a tear and they are well worth a watch if you have a spare five minutes. You can see them online now, just go to: www.paragonchg.co.uk/ publications ...and click the orange ‘see all’ button by Get Involved at Paragon! 23/04/2014 12:54:21 34 35 The future of a l easehold newsletter and newsletters for each of our sheltered schemes. relies on your feedback We need to consider whether producing The Resident 3 times a year is a. cost effective, and b. something that residents feel is worthwhile, and really want to receive from us through the mail. Hannah Elford Design & Communications Manager This Spring 2014 copy The Resident Magazine is 7th edition of the Magazine that I have had the pleasure of working on since I joined the Group in January 2012. And in that time we have worked closely with residents on the content of the magazine. More recently, residents have told us they feel many people don’t often read the magazine. Paragon have also begun to tailor news articles to specific groups as we now have We now post digital copies of the magazine online and email copies of the magazine out to a small group of residents. Do you think it’s worthwhile? Are you pleased to see it arrive on the doormat? Does it go straight the recycling? What would be a better alternative? All feedback – good and bad, will help us consider how we keep you informed in future. You can complete the form below, and pop it in the post using the FREEPOST address given, or you can email us at news@paragonchg.co.uk FEEDBACK Please post your comments to: Paragon Community Housing Group, FREEPOST WB 510, Walton-on-Thames,Surrey KT12 1DZ 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 34 23/04/2014 12:54:23 35 35 Soon to open its’ doors... St John’s Community Cafe Many of you will know our Paragon Community Hero Sheila Samuels from the St John’s estate in Walton. With the support of Paragon and the Church Army, Sheila is launching a Community Cafe at the Cromwell Centre for residents of the estate to pop in for a bite to eat, enjoy a cuppa and be part of the community spirit. The new cafe which will be called Open Door, and will be open every Tuesday from 11.30 am–1.30 pm, staffed by volunteers. Tuesday 27May See you there! The big community cafe launch day is on the Tuesday 27 May (half term week). So if you are a local Walton resident. Get yourself down to the Cromwell Centre on St. Johns Drive and we’ll look forward to seeing you. They’ll be lots going on, with tantalizing tasters and fun for the kids! 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 35 23/04/2014 12:54:25 36 Competition Everyone can enter! 7 8 4 9 Send to: Lauren Cole, Paragon Community Housing Group, FREEPOST WB510 Walton on Thames, Surrey, KT12 1DZ 2 6 3 Win a £50 shopping voucher! Complete this Sudoku and send it to us along with your name and contact details to be in with a chance of winning a £50 shopping vouchers. Deadline: 30/05/14 1 6 1 6 5 8 3 4 1 7 5 5 1 7 3 7 7 9 2 3 6 4 1 Name: Address: Hard Sudoku from www.SudokuPuzz.com Tel: Your balance at the close of play yesterday was... You can check the balance of your rent account right now via text if your mobile phone number is registered on our system! To request your balance text Bal to: Please Note: This balance figure may not include any payments you have made in the last three days or any outstanding Housing benefit adjustment. Texts are charged at your standard network rate. 2014 The Resident Spring NEW.indd 36 23/04/2014 12:54:27 THE BIG BREAK Switch to paying by Direct Debit and you could WIN £12000 Paying by Direct Debit is safe, convenient and easy Ever wondered what you would do if your bills were covered for 12 months? Well, 2014 could be the year you find out as Paragon Community Housing Group is joining a national campaign run by Bacs, the not-for-profit organisation behind Direct Debit. The Big Break initiative encourages people to switch to the ease and convenience of Direct Debit, with one lucky person set to scoop £12,000 in a prize draw – enough to cover regular bills for an entire year! To be in with a chance of winning the cash windfall, you simply have to be a new Direct Debit payer; it really is that easy! On top of that, for each new Direct Debit Instruction set-up as part of the Big Break campaign, a donation will be made to Shelter, a charity that works to alleviate the distress caused by homelessness and bad housing. Direct Debit is a simple and easy way to pay regular bills, such as your rent or service charge. Payments are taken automatically so you don’t have to worry about falling behind with your bills. Once set-up you can relax, knowing that you won’t forget to pay those important outgoings. To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, switch to paying by Direct Debit before 30th June 2014. Simply call the income team on 0300 123 2221 (select option 2) to pay your rent by Direct Debit. For further information go to www.thebigbreak.co.uk Designers / Editors Get involved lauren cole T 01932 235 715 E lcole@paragonchg.co.uk hannah elford T 01932 235 722 E helford@paragonchg.co.uk Resident Involvement chloe jones T 01932 235 962 E chjones@paragonchg.co.uk simon martin T 01932 235 724 E smartin@paragonchg.co.uk bob mitchell T 01932 235 964 E bmitchell@paragonchg.co.uk If you would like to contribute any short articles, photos or messages to The Resident magazine, please send via email to bwarren@paragonchg.co.uk or by post FAO Bryony Warren, Paragon Community Housing Group, Freepost WB510, Walton-onThames, KT12 1DZ The Resident will be back in the Summer time!