Our Times Spring 2009

STOCKBRIDGEMEMORIES

YOU SAID ...WE DID!!!

OLDHAMCARNIVAL

M O R E T H A N

J U S T A

L A N D L O R D

First ‘Our Times’ Newsletter

THIS WILL BE THE SUB-HEADING FOR THEMAIN PAGE AND IT WILL BE IN CAPS

Welcome everyone to our new look community newsletter. I do hope that you like the new look and content.

Some of you may be asking, “Why have you changed it, we liked the Village Times and the Fitton Times as they were?”

We are not changing just for changes sake! We believe that we can produce a better newsletter that still retains local information but also gives a clearer idea of Villages Housing across the organisation. Some of you may say it’s just to save costs. It’s true - producing one newsletter will save both sta� time and printing costs – however we will be putting these “saved” resources back into our communities.

As the newsletter is produced quarterly we are also planning to develop an area on our website for local information and provide a monthly “What’s On” update in our o�ce reception areas. So if you have any local events that you want to promote contact your local Villages o�ce.

We want the newsletter to get better with each edition so if you would like to be more involved in its production, or if you have any feedback on what you like/don’t like about “Our Times” or suggestions for future editions, I’d love to hear from you.

Finally, I’d like to thank Barbara and Jan for their hard work in the past on the Villages Times and Fitton Times respectively.

They will still contribute articles to “Our Times” but will no longer put the newsletter together– giving them more time to work on local community projects.

Keep an eye out for the various competitions and prize draws in this edition, where you see the “Win A Prize” Logo!!

Sarah BevanInitiatives Director

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WORDS AND PICTURES

Scope of the works – An overview

• Many Villages properties will be provided with driveways.• Private residents will be given the opportunity to negotiate with the appointed contractor to provide external improvements to their properties, a shopping list of options will be available.• An area of green open space equivalent to 4 Wembley football pitches will be improved. This is on 42 separate spaces throughout the estate.• A total of 3.5 miles of boundary will be improved with 76 Villages properties having new boundaries where none existed before.• A series of enhancements will improve the main route through the estate on Fir Tree and Keswick Avenues. These will include way-markers, new planting, copings and general repairs to raised planters, beacon features and new planting to the roundabout and verges.• Use of colour is considered vital in raising the visual quality of the environment. We hope to o�er residents in South Croft and The Spur a choice of colours to paint the exterior of their propeties.

Status Survey

Villages Sta� and sta� from BCA Landscapes Consult residents on the proposals for Environmental Improvements to Fitton Hill Homes

Fitton Hill Consultation BusFor two weeks in January, sta� from the Fitton Hill o�ce together with our consultants, BCA landscapes, toured the estate on the Xpress youth bus and consulted with many residents regarding our initial proposals for the environmental works programme.

Many thanks to everyone who attended our consultation events and gave us views on what was most important to you.

We are particularly interested to hear from any residents who would be willing to get involved in the project, including helping choose the contractor who will deliver the programme of work and joining progress meetings. This will not take up too much of your time but will occur during o�ce hours.

For further information, please contact Bernie McConnell or Stephen Jackson, call 0161 633 4060.



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Donations

Tributes have been pouring in for a former resident of Stockbridge Village, Michael “Mick” Laski, 21, who died on 25th February, two days after being wounded in an exchange of �re whilst �ghting in Afghanistan.

Frontline colleagues described Marine Laski as a “dependable, brave and sel�ess man”.

Marine Laski completed his gruelling commando training in September 2006 and was immediately deployed to Afghanistan. He returned to the war-torn country on a second

Villages recently donated £500 to the Ellen MacArthur Trust. At the recent sta� away day, Villages sta� were treated to an inspiring presentation by Tony Summers on teamwork.

Tony insisted that instead of paying him a fee, Villages make a donation to the Ellen MacArthur Trust as his daughter worked for the organisation.

The money donated will help the Trust to inspire young people recovering from cancer and leukaemia.

At Christmas, here at Villages, instead of giving colleagues Christmas cards the Directors each give £10 to a charity nominated by the rest of the sta�. This year sta� voted for RNLI to receive the donation and a cheque for £75 has been sent to them.

Well Done Keith!

TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR FORMER RESIDENT OF STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGETRIBUTES POUR IN FOR FORMER RESIDENT OF STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGEMichael Laski

A resident of Brandearth Hey, Stockbridge Village, is celebrating after being awarded the Cadet Force Medal for long service with the Merseyside Army Cadet Force. SMI Keith Shelbourne joined the Merseyside ACF in June 1994. Before this he was in the regular army in the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, he then went on to join the Territorial Army.

Considerate Contractors

tour as a signaller with Yankee Commando, 45 Company.

Lieutenant Colonel Jim Morris, commanding o�cer of 45 Commando Group, said Marine Laski was always in the thick of the �ghting. He added: “Marine Laski was a Royal Marine Commando through and through. Bright, quick-witted, incredibly determined and extremely brave, he always sought out every opportunity to operate as close to the front line as possible. His Scouse wit was always well-timed and he would often break the tension.”

If you are deaf and need help communicating with us we have some members of sta� based in the Stockbridge o�ce, who have kindly volunteered to help with translation if it is needed though they warn us they have basic skills and are a bit “rusty”.

If you need this service please contact us in advance so that we can arrange this for you. This service is also open to Fitton Hill residents, but please give us some notice, so we can set up a video link to Stockbridge.

BSL Service



OurTimes

You Said... We Did!We can’t �nd information on your website and it’s not kept up to date.

We DidYou Said

We agreed with this comment. We will be launching a new website in the summer and we have also dedicated responsibility to one person to make sure that the website is up-dated and reviewed regularly.

We Value Your Suggestions on how we can improve our services to you. There are Suggestions Boxes in both Fitton Hill and Stockbridge Village reception areas or you can call you local Villages O�ce or email us at [email protected].

Why not get involved in our Tenants Forums and have your say on many aspects of Villages Services?

For more information see pages 14 and 15 or contact your local Villages o�ce.

Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour is important to us

In partnership with other agencies we have placed a lot of e�ort into tackling Anti Social Behaviour, including developing good working practices; helping issue Anti Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) –see page 5; and implementing physical solutions such as cutting back shrubbed areas, erection of gates and fencing to protect our open spaces.

Residents in Hathershaw and Fitton Hill will be seeing more police o�cers on the streets thanks to a new and expanded team of Neighbourhood Police o�cers. The team is set to tackle community crime and antisocial behaviour across the Medlock Vale and Alexandra Ward.

There will be an 18 strong team operating across the area. The team is made up of 2 sergeants, 8 police o�cers, 2 of which are funded by NDC, and 8 PCSOs (Police Community Support O�cers) and a local volunteer.

The neighbourhood police team has been reorganised to tackle crime in these areas which will help sustain Neighbourhood Policing in Hathershaw and Fitton Hill when the NDC Programme �nishes in 2011.

The Oldham West Neighbourhood Policing Team can be contacted on 0161 856 8927 or [email protected]

Neighbourhood Police Team



OurTimes

Mother & Son Issued With Anti-Social Behaviour Injunctions

A mother and son from Stockbridge Village have consented to being given Anti-Social Behaviour Injunctions.

Diane Mills, 45, and her son, Steven McGeorge, 21, both from Boodecroft in Stockbridge Village, consented to the injunctions, without a �nding of facts and without the need for a trial or any evidence being called, before District Judge Johnson at Liverpool County Court on 19th January 2009.

Following a number of complaints from local residents about the behaviour of Mills & McGeorge, the proceedings were brought about by Villages Housing Association working with their partners in the Safer Knowsley Partnership, Merseyside Police and Knowsley Housing Trust Tenancy Enforcement o�cers.

As a result, Diane Mills must not (whether by herself or by instructing or encouraging any other person)

1. Cause a nuisance or annoyance to any person living in or lawfully visiting Stockbridge Village, Liverpool or2. Use or threaten violence against any person living in or lawfully visiting Stockbridge Village, Liverpool, particularly 2 named individuals.

Steven McGeorge must not be in Stockbridge Village except for a prescribed route to and from his home in Boodecroft. He must not (whether by himself or by instructing or encouraging any other person)

1. Cause nuisance or annoyance to any person living in or lawfully visiting Stockbridge Village, Liverpool and2. Must not use or threaten violence against any person living in or lawfully visiting Stockbridge Village. Steven McGeorge can be arrested if he breaches this part of his order.

If a member of the public witnesses Mills or McGeorge breaching their orders, they can call Villages Housing on 0151 480 1313 or Merseyside Police on 0151 709 6010. The Injunction is in force until 19 January 2010.

Vernon Jackson, Chief Executive of Villages Housing Association, has said, “The Association and its partners are very pleased with the successful outcome of this case and it will continue to take any action necessary to protect our tenants from Anti-Social Behaviour.”

New Villages Website

Diane Mills Steven McGeorge

Villages is getting a brand new website. With lots of new features, we hope you’ll �nd this new website much easier to use and more informative than our current website. Keep your eyes peeled for the changes, which you should start seeing around June 2009.

If you have any ideas about what you’d like to see from the new Villages website, we’d love to hear them. Either call us on 0151 480 1313 or email [email protected].

Focusing on you



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Villages Staff

Christ The King opens its doors

By the time you read this, our club will have had its 25th Anniversary party. Having to contact members who have moved on for one reason or another, to come and join us for the night has brought back so many memories. There has been so much to talk about even looking at the old photos and seeing how people have changed.

It was on the 8th March 1984, that 14 of us and Sister Janet’s dog, called Robbie, went to Ingleborough in the Yorkshire Dales. At 723 metres (or 2350 feet) it was a good climb and a great day out had by all. Ever since that day we have been to so many beautiful places, walked some long distance paths and raised a few bob for charity along the way.

We have had so many people come to join us who have lived locally all their lives, and say they never knew there were so many beautiful places on their doorstep! Some of the wildlife you see up around places like the River Wharfe, near Grassington, where you can sit and watch King�shers, even otters and stoats, or �nd fresh water cray�sh. You can go to places like Bassenthwaite Lake in the Lake District, and watch ospreys catching �sh (what a site to see!), or watch buzzards training their young to �y.

Then down to Devil’s Bridge in mid-Wales, to watch the Red Kites, a very special bird of prey, with over a 6foot wing span and one of the few falcons that �ock together. We have seen 60 birds at one time, another time we found an eel on the beach and tried to put it back in the water. We never laughed so much as one at a time we tried to pick up the eel, but after half an hour we �nally got it back in the water!!

We could easily �ll “Our Times” with our memories, but looking to the future we are now looking forward to a warm, dry summer. It’s been a long, cold winter and the snow, when it melted, left the footpaths in a bad state. There is nothing worse than having to cross �elds full of mud, and it’s very hard to �nd walks that are good underfoot. But we have managed to get out and had some good walks around Dunham Massey. Walking through herds of deer, with the stags and their large antlers just a few feet away, some of the group were a bit nervous, but the deer were not interested in us. We have also been on the Wirral and around Northwich, where all the salt comes from.

Now the nights are getting a bit lighter, we can go a bit further a�eld, and remember you are always welcome to join us! We walk every 2 weeks on a Saturday between 8 and 10 miles, and it’s a great way to get �t and see the countryside.

Gwen Osbourne, Secretary, Stockbridge Village Ramblers – 0151 220 5837

Customer ExcellenceIn the winter edition we told you that all Villages sta� had recently started on a Customer Excellence programme. This programme is about focusing on the key components of customer centred services through a series of short, hard hitting interactive workshops.

The outcomes we expect to deliver include:

1. Improved engagement with customers;2. A clear de�nition of what excellent customer service means at Villages Housing;3. Sta� aware of their personal responsibilities in each customer interaction;4. Improved customer experiences in pivotal situations;5. Improved inter-team working;6. A genuine commitment to continuous improvement.

A major part of the programme is to get your views. We held a Tenants Conference on 30th October last year, and we are holding another Tenants Conference on Thursday 23rd April 2009 at St. Albert’s Social Club in Stockbridge Village, to see if you have noticed any changes. Transport will be provided for residents of Fitton Hill, who may want to attend. Attendance is by invitation only, so if you are interested in attending please contact Barbara Murray at the Stockbridge o�ce or Janet Taylor in Fitton Hill. We are also keen to develop a number of tenant inspectors to help us monitor performance, and again if you are interested, please contact Barbara Murray or Janet Taylor.

Villages has its very own Super Lamb Banana! Born on 10 March 2009, Lamby (as we’ve called him), lives in the reception at the Stockbridge Village o�ce. With his colourful coat, he’s becoming really popular among sta� and residents and is making lots of new friends.

But we don’t think the name ‘Lamby’ is special enough for our new pal, so we want you to tell us what you think we should call him. If you’ve got an idea for a name then either call into your local Villages o�ce, or call the Stockbridge o�ce on 0151 480 1313 and tell us your suggestions! If we pick your name, you’ll win a very special Super Lamb Banana prize!

Villages has its very own Super Lamb Banana! Born on 10 March 2009, Lamby

Villages’ SuperLamBananacolourful coat, he’s becoming really popular among sta� and residents and is making lots of new friends.

But we don’t think the name ‘Lamby’ is special enough for our new pal, so we want you to tell us what you think we should call him. If you’ve got an idea for a name then either call into your local Villages o�ce, or call the Stockbridge o�ce on 0151 480 1313 and tell us your suggestions! If we pick your name, you’ll win a very special Super Lamb Banana prize!

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FAMILY HISTORY COURSE


WORDS AND PICTURES

STATUS – the standardised tenant satisfaction survey – is a survey that ALL housing associations in the country are obliged to carry out every 3 years.

We will start conducting the survey in April. It would really help if you could take the time to �ll in the survey. There are some great prizes up for grabs, including a Nintendo Wii!!! All you need to do is �ll in and return the survey. This can even be done via telephone or through the post, and you’ll be entered into our prize draw!

Change and improvement to existing services is most e�ective when it is driven by you, the customer. Please help us to improve our service to what you want it to be. Thank you.

WIN A NINTENDO WiiStatus Survey

Villages Housing in partnership with Knowsley Council, held a launch of a heritage project on Friday 27th February at the SPACE Building as a part of “Knowsley’s Hidden Gems”. The project is funded by The National Lottery and Heritage Lottery Funding. Sta� from Prescott Museum have worked hard to archive old photographs of Stockbridge Village and Cantril Farm. The aim of the launch was to exhibit this catalogue and to invite residents to get involved by sharing their memories.

The launch also advised residents of 3 interview sessions across the estate throughout March. The interviewers, who were also residents, had been speci�cally trained to conduct interviews to capture the wealth of memories in the local community. All the gathered anecdotes, stories and memories will eventually be collated into a book or DVD which will be celebrated with the community during the summer.

If you have missed any of these opportunities to take part in the project so far please contact Barbara Murray on 0151 480 1313 who will be happy to advise of other opportunities to get involved in this project.

UNLOCKING KNOWSLEY’S HIDDEN GEMSUNLOCKING KNOWSLEY’S HIDDEN GEMS

Stockbridge Memories

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NEW STARTERS

Tenants’ Page

Times

12.45-2.45

9.15-11.30 1.00-3.00 1.00-3.00

1.00 – 3.00 9.30 – 2.30

All

9.15-11.15

Dates Thurs. 26th Feb.

Every Thursday Thurs. 23rd April date to be confirmed Every Friday Thurs. 26th Feb.

Every Friday Fri. 27th Feb. Fri. 1st May Fri. 15th May

Course Artificial Nails Craft Yoga Computers for Beginners Maths/English Personal development

Stress Management Aromatherapy Weaning Family Cookery

Venues Bedford Close - Huyton L36 1XH - Ring 443 5301

And Longview school Knowsley Lane Huyton – L36 8DB Ring 477 8600

And Brookside School

Cremorne Hey Huyton – L28 3QA Ring 480 7884

For more information, please contact your local Children‛s Centre or Sev on: 0151 443 5301 or 077477 62 498.

For other courses in your area, please contact L.I.N.C. on 477 5808 - FACE on 443 4562 or your local school.

Please note the skip service cannot take fridges, freezers, gas bottles or tyres. For free removal of these items phone Knowsley Contract Services on 0151 443 2400, or Oldham Council on 0161 770 6644 . Thank You.The Skips will be sited on Thursdays, early morning, and removed around lunch time.

What’s On & Where

Skip Dates

In 2002 the Government said that all Housing Associations and Councils should calculate their rents in the same way. The aim is that by 2012 rents for similar homes owned by either Housing Associations or Councils in the same area will be similar, no matter who the landlord is. This is known as TARGET RENT.

Under these Government rules, all Housing Associations and Councils should be charging the full target rent for each of their properties by 2012. Since 2002 your rent has been moving towards the Target Rent for your home.

How is your Target Rent calculated?The Target Rent for your property is worked out by a Government formula. This formula uses the current national average rent for a property and also takes into account 3 other things:1- The number of bedrooms in your home2- The average wage in the region of the country3- The value of your home.

70% of your rent is based on the number of bedrooms in your home and the average wage in our region, and the other 30% is based on the value of your home in 1999.

The Target Rent is increased each year by the in�ation rate (Or Retail Price Index RPI) plus 0.5% for that year. For rents from 1st April 2009 the RPI used is for September 2008 which is 5.0%. Your Target Rent was therefore increased by 5.5%.

How does Villages decide how much your rent is increased by each year?As tenants of Villages Housing Association you will fall into one of three categories for rent increases:

FITTON HILL

Rent Setting

FITTON HILL

STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGEFill the grid with numbers 1 to 9

so that evry row, every column and every 3x3

box contains the digits 1-9, without

repeating any numbers.

• Fair Rent Tenants (Stockbridge only) • Protected Assured Tenants (Fitton Hill only) • Assured Tenants (both estates). If you are a Stockbridge tenant who entered into your tenancy before January 1989 then you are a “Fair Rent Tenant”. All others are “Assured”.

1) Assured Tenants (Assured and Protected Assured)Villages are obliged to increase your rent based on another Government formula which uses the same in�ation rate as described above. In addition to in�ation, for those tenants who are not currently paying Target Rent, Villages are expected to increase your rent by a further £2.00 per week, until the target rent is achieved. (This £2.00 translates into £2.08 per week for Stockbridge tenants paying rent over 50 weeks and £2.12 for Fitton Hill tenants paying rent over 49 weeks). In addition there is a protection in all Assured Tenancy agreement that means your rent can’t increase by more than 10% in any one year.

2) Fair Rent TenantsMany of our tenancies entered into before January 1989 are regulated under the Rent Act 1977, this ensures that tenants have long-term security of residence, and both landlord and tenant have the right to have a fair rent determined by an Independent Rent O�cer.

Fair rents are decided by the age, character, location and state of repair of the building.

Rents are set by the Independent Rent O�cer every two years. If your current rent is below the rent set by the Rent O�cer than the maximum amount Villages are able to increase your rent by in any one year is the same in�ation rate as described above plus the £2.00 per week maximum. In some cases therefore the rent will be increased over a period of two years.

Both tenants and landlords have a right to appeal against the rent set by the independent Rent O�cer if they believe it to be unfair.

Service Charges increasesVillages increases your charges based on the actual or anticipated costs for the services provided. However there is a government restriction that these can’t increase by more than the same in�ation rate described above i.e. 5.5%. In the case of Heating Charges, this restriction doesn’t apply and regrettably, due to the large increase in costs that Villages has experienced over the last two years, these costs have increased by a signi�cant amount.

Support and Advice Villages have trained sta� who can give you advice on paying your rent and your eligibility for assistance such as housing bene�t. We also work closely with support agencies such as the Citizens Advice Bureau who can assist you with debt advice. For further details please contact your local housing o�ce:Fitton Hill 0161 633 4060Stockbridge Village0151 480 1313





Stockbridge Village North West In Bloom

Villages has garages available for rent on both Stockbridge Village and Fitton Hill, in various locations. These are to be used for personal vehicle use only (not for storage or for business use). Prices start from just £5 per week.

For further details please contact Nigel Cross (Stockbridge Village) email [email protected], or Fiona Barden (Fitton Hill) e-mail �[email protected].

The Community Budget exists to give �nancial help to any community group or individual who is committed to improving the quality of life for our residents.

Whether it’s a �shing club, a gardening project, a dance group, a day out – the list is endless – why not see if we can help?

We will also try and help support you if you have an idea or project that you would like to get o� the ground. The process is simple and applications for funding are considered regularly by the local Estate Management Committee for your area.

Some recent successful applications have been:Stockbridge Village:

• Brookside Primary School• SHOESTRING Holiday Project• Youth events at the SPACE building• Maintainance works at the Craigs community garden and allotments• New disco lights for the Community Disco• Stockbridge Ramblers Anniversary event

Fitton Hill:• Fitton Hill Junior Youth Club for a Christmas party.• Fitton Hill Allotment Association for battery lighting for their new toilet block.• Fun For All Ages for a meal following a half term inter- generational activity.• Fitton Hill Allotment Association to purchase 12 trophies for presentation at the Annual General Meeting.• Friends of St. Martins School to put towards funding received from Oldham Area Committee to provide playground markings.• Fitton Hill & Hathershaw Bulldogs to purchase equipment for training and competing in North West Counties League.

So if you are organising an event or need �nancial support for a community project please contact Barbara Murray or Jan Taylor for an application pack and further details.

Yes, it’s that time of year again when we start planning projects across the estate towards North West in Bloom. If you have any ideas for improving the environment around your home we would love to hear from you.

Last year Stockbridge Village achieved �ve Neighbourhood Awards and a Royal Horticultural Commendation for the SEEDS Project at the Resource Centre. This year we would like to do even better than that with more entries from neighbourhood groups and new projects.

Please contact Barbara Murray to get involved.

The Villages Garden Competition is due to take place in July, and prizes will be presented at an awards ceremony in August.

The Villages Garden

Garden Competition

Community Budget

Garages For Rent

It would be ‘blooming’ marvellous if you get involved – so come on, get pruning, sowing and planting!For further information on how you can enter and what prizes you could win, please call either Jan Taylor (Fitton Hill) or Barbara Murray ( Stockbridge Village).


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CHRISTMAS PARCELS SENT TO SOLDIERS IN IRAQ

Your StoriesChrist The King opens its doors

CHRISTMAS PARCELS SENT

Nine Tree School

Here is a picture of the the children in year 6 at Nine Tree School. The school and sta� raised money by holding ra�es to send parcels to the the troops in Iraq for Christmas. The children have been writing to some of the soldiers and Honey, the school mascot who went on tour with the soldiers and saw what life was like in Iraq.

The children helped to pack and wrap the parcels hoping they would cheer the soldiers up over the Christmas period and make their Christmas away from home a little happier.

The children in class �ve did some topic work on Remembrance Sunday. We read and found out information about the Second World War. We decided to invite a local pensioner group in to school and talk about their experiences growing up during the war.

‘Our Times’ Deadlines

Science advisor Mr. Fletcher came to visit year six in Nine Tree School. The children were astonished when he entered the room wearing his Royal Navy uniform. Mr. Fletcher answered questions about his experience in the navy. The children sat mesmerized and were fascinated by all the countries he had visited in the �ve and a half years he had served with the navy.

Mr. Fletcher brought along a medal he was awarded for serving in the Gulf. The children were so inspired; they were very keen to write a re-count of his visit. One child included in his story ” I might consider a career in the Navy, it looks absolutely exciting.“

REMEMBERANCE DAY

NINE TREE CD

NINE TREE GETS A VISIT FROM A ROYAL NAVY VETERAN

TECH WEEK

Student Nathan Williams came up with a great idea for the children to have lots of fun and raise money for school funds. He came up with the idea for each class to record a song and then produce a CD. All the classes got involved in the recording; and we compiled a great CD with a variety of songs.

The children in year 6 sang ‘Hero’ which we included in a parcel to the Troops serving in Iraq. Another class recorded the Beatles song ‘Help ’as we came to the close of Liverpool’s Capital of Culture year.

There were lots of Christmas songs �tting in with the season, and a lovely rendition from the choir of ‘This little light of mine’, which they sang in the Christmas Carol service.

The school held a competition to design a cover for the CD; the winner was Kyle Creevy from year 3. This was a unique experience for the children at NineTree and one that was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. It took a lot of time and patience and a lot of hard work to produce this wonderful CD. Thank You Mr. Williams!

Honey pictured with some of his military friends in Basra.

The children had previously prepared questions that they wanted to ask them about and then we did a ‘hot seat’ session. This gave the children a lot of inspiration when it came to the BIG Write. The children produced some brilliant pieces of work. We held a two minute silence to remember people who had been killed in war all over the world in past and present times. The children sold Poppy’s during the month of November, and raised £40.00 for the British Legion Poppy Appeal.




Your Stories


Brookside School

To enhance and enrich work on story telling and writing, the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 at Brookside School had a magical visit from Sharon the storyteller. She transformed the classrooms into fantasy worlds where the children

We’re always keen to ensure that any lea�ets ornewsletters that we send out to to our customersare as clear as possible. We’re putting together a“Readers’ Panel” and we’d like volunteers. If you’dlike to be part of the Readers Panel and approve anydocuments we send out please contact Elena Lloyd on0151 480 1313 for further information.

If you would like to include an article or event for future editions of Our Times, please note that deadline dates are:

Summer Edition – Monday 8 June 2009 Autumn Edition – Monday 14 September 2009 Winter Edition – Monday 9 November 2009.

Please email Elena Lloyd at [email protected] or call 0151 480 1313 or pop in to your local Villages O�ce.

‘Our Times’ Deadlines

The children from Brookside’s year 1 and 2 classes spent a wonderful morning at Acorn Adventure Urban Farm, feeding the hens, ducks, cows and sheep. They were some of the �rst to see the farm’s new litter of piglets that were only �ve days old. They petted the guinea pigs and �oppy-eared rabbits and even got to milk Sally the goat.

Year 1 and 2 made wonderful creations during Brookside School Technology week. These photographs show the machines they made, some of them were even their own inventions. They also built paper crimping machines and used the paper to create wonderful headdresses. They all enjoyed the chance to have hands-on experience of being technical experts.

As part of their Design and Technology week the children from year 2 at Brookside School designed and made puppets using di�erent materials and sewing techniques.

Brookside is working in collaboration with Acorn Nursery which is situated upon the Brookside School site. We are all very delighted with our new “bouncy” playground which provides a safe, soft surface for the children to enjoy.

PUPPET WORKSHOP ACORN FARM

NEW BOUNCY PLAYGROUND

THE STORYTELLER

TECH WEEK

were introduced to new stories, played games and entered into role pay with wonderful costumes and props. A great day was had by all.

Does your school have any stories to tell? If you’d like your school to feature in the next edition of ‘Our Times’please email Elena Lloyd at [email protected] or call 0151 480 1313.



OurTimesDonations

As part of the Cyclical Maintenance External Repair and Painting Programme, Villages will have two main contractors carrying out the works to the following areas of Stockbridge Village.

Cameron Industrial Services Limited will be working in Boodecroft, and Vale Decorators Limited will be working in Hollowcroft.

Works will commence in June 2009 and all tenants will receive a letter from Villages with start dates and also a copy of the schedule of works for their property. The contractors will then make appointments with each tenant for access to carry out the works.

After works have been completed and inspected Villages will send a satisfaction questionnaire to residents. This information helps us maintain the standard of work done by contractors on our behalf, so we ask all residents to please ensure they do complete these forms. Thank you.

Investment Programme 2009/2010

Michael Laski

Villages ProvideNew Service

We are pleased to announce a new service that our day- to-day contractors, KHT Services (Knowsley) and Jackson Lloyd (Fitton Hill), can now provide.

Both contractors can provide female operatives for some trades or can assign a female to accompany an operative if this is something you feel you would prefer.

Appointments must be made for such visits. If you would like this service please request Villages sta� to make the necessary arrangements when you report your repair.

ConsiderateContractors

Villages are pleased to announce that the contractors used for the improvement works at Whincraig Multi-Storey block, Stockbridge Village, have been successful in winning a national award for the project, as part of the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS).

The CCS is the body which monitors quality and performance on building sites throughout the UK.

The award was presented at one of the National Award ceremonies at the Lowry Hotel in Manchester on 19th March 2009.

Major Works Programme

Bathroom ReplacementBeechwood Road, Chestnut Crescent, Fir Tree Avenue, Hawthorn Crescent, Tanhill Lane, Tanners Fold, Wildbrook Crescent

Kitchen ReplacementCrossways, Kelso Close, Marland Avenue, Marland Fold, Park Lane, Riversdale Drive, Rosary Road, Rosary Close, Sutherland Avenue, Westerhill Road

Fencing ProgrammeBroadoak Crescent, Fircroft Road, reenhurst Cresent, Springwood Hall Road, St. Martins Road, Timperly Close

FITTON HILL

STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGE



OurTimes

News From The Multi-Storeys

Rechargeable Repairs

PROJECT UPDATE

SERVICE STANDARDS

CRIAGS COMMUNITY CENTRE

DIGITAL TV SWITCHOVERHOUSING SURGERY

We have recently consulted with tenants and put together a set of “Service Standard” lea�ets which tell you what standards you should expect from di�erent services provided by Villages Housing.

The �rst batch of 10 are available from Reception or you can download them from our website. These are:

Complaints, Compliments and SuggestionsHow to help us keep your home in good repairCaretaking/Cleaning and Landscaping ServicesCustomer ServiceCode of Conduct for ContractorsWhat you can expect from your new homeLetting HomesRent StandardRepair Priorities StandardTenant Involvement

The Project team are pleased to report that the programme to refurbish long term Voids in the Multi-storey complexes is progressing well. For the �rst time in many years, Whincraig and Firscraig are now fully occupied and Mosscraig is due to be fully let in April 2009. The project is now receiving an increased amount of housing applications which has created a strong waiting list for our properties.

The next phase of refurbishment works is due to commence in the next few months.

Status Survey

WINDOW PROGRAMME UPDATE

RECYCLING

STEERING GROUP

Winstanleys have now completed all works to windows at Whincraig and the mast climber has been removed. Resident feedback to these works has been excellent.

Villages would like to thank the Steering Group for their continuing hard work liaising with residents and contractors during and after the works at Whincraig. This information is used to ensure future contracts re�ect residents needs. We would also welcome residents from Firscraig to join the Steering Group at this time, when refurbishment works are due to start, please contact the Project Team for more information.

Recycling collection at the Cli�s is going very well and it is hoped this service will be extended to the Craigs once refurbishment works are completed.

After consultation with residents, we are piloting Notice Boards on the ground �oor of Whincraig and Merecli� with information about caretaking rotas and service standards. Block inspections with residents and Senior Caretakers have restarted and have been successful in improving the environment in and around the blocks.

As part of the Community Payback Scheme we have been working in partnership with the South Knowsley Probation Service to provide opportunities for probationers to perform work in the community. A team of probationers has completed a painting programme at the Craigs Community Centre which has now been refreshed and looks much brighter. We would like to thank Tom McDonald, the project leader, and all the young probationers who have worked over the winter months to improve this community facility for everyone.

Villages Housing is in the process of renewing all TV Aerial Systems at the multi-storey complexes in preparation for the digital TV switch over later this year. The new systems will improve the quality of TV reception for all our residents. The contract to upgrade the systems has been awarded to ABCA and a drop in session for residents was held at the Craigs Community Centre in February, so that you could ask questions about the digital switch over from the experts.

Colin La�erty, Project O�cer is available at his surgeries at the following times:

Thursdays 2pm - 4pmGround �oor Merecli�,Whincraig O�ce Contacts (speci�c enquiries regarding

apartments to let) tel. 0151 449 1788 m. 07802465280 or email: Project Leader [email protected]

Team Memberscolin.la�[email protected]

[email protected]@villages.org.uk

[email protected]

Fridays 12noon—1pmCraigs Community Centre

Colin and Mark, representatives from ABCA, were present at the drop in to give technical advice and information on a one to one basis with residents. Everyone who attended was included in a ra�e for a free digi box. The winner was Mr Wiltshire who lives in Firscraig, who was delighted with his prize.



OurTimes

Tenants’ PageVillages Housing has recently produced a strategy for Resident Involvement in consultation with a focus group of residents. We are now in the process of reviewing our lea�et for residents which is now available at reception.

If you wish to be involved in any of the following ways please contact your local Community Development O�cer.

The Housing Corporation which has overseen not for pro�t housing associations and campaigns for better housing and neighbourhoods on behalf of residents ceased to exist in December 2008. In January 2009 it was replaced by the Tenants Services Authority which will now carry out this function. They are the new regulator for a�ordable housing, and their goal is to raise the standard of services for tenants.

The Tenants Services Authority (TSA) is keen to listen to the voice of residents and has started a National Conversation with tenants across the country which is your chance to tell the TSA what services are most important to you as a tenant of a housing association. This will help them to set standards that will make sure Villages gives you excellent service.

The Tenants Forum and

Tenants’ PageVillages Housing has recently

Tenant Involvement

The Housing Corporation which has

Tenant Services Authority

Ways you can be involved:• Board and Estate Management Committee membership• Membership of the Tenants Forum or other Community Groups• Attracting funding opportunities for investment in the community • Forming a new community group or developing a project• Take up training opportunities • Environmental projects• Suggestions and/or ideas for doing things di�erently

We would like to set up a Reading Group who will read over our copy before it goes to the printer to ensure it is in plain English and free of jargon.

If you would like to play a part in this group please contact Elena Lloyd on 0151 480 1313 or email [email protected].

representatives from other community groups came together at a meeting with Villages Area Director, Bernie McConnell for a Local Conversation. At this meeting everyone completed TSA Surveys which asked detailed questions about housing provision and what issues were most important to residents. This information will inform service provision standards in social housing in the years to come.

For further information visit www.nationalconversation.co.uk

and www.tenantservicesauthority.org

MOVING INTO A SMALLER HOME COULD HELP

Councillors’ Surgeries

BILL WEIGHTMANDENNIS BAUMMICK FOULKES

- The Craigs Community Centre, Stockbridge Village Friday 6.00pm - 7.00pm - Heatwaves Community Centre, Stockbridge Village, Third Friday of the month, 12 Noon - 1pm

Villages have recently consulted with tenants and put together a set of “Service Standard” lea�ets which tell you what standards you should expect from di�erent services provided by Villages Housing.

The �rst batch of 10 are available from Reception or you can download them from our website. These are:Complaints, Compliments and Suggestions, How to help us keep your home in good repair, Caretaking/Cleaning and Landscaping Services, Customer Service, Code of Conduct for Contractors, What you can expect from your new home, Rent Standard, Repair Priorities Standard, Tenant Involvement and Letting Homes.

Villages have recently consulted

Service StandardLeaflets



OurTimes

STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGE NETWORK

Tenants’ Page

Villages Housing has recently produced a strategy for Resident Involvement in consultation with a focus group of residents. We are now in the process of reviewing our lea�et for residents which is now available at reception.

If you wish to be involved in any of the following ways please contact your local Community Development O�cer on 0151 480 1313

Ways you can be involved:• Board and Estate Management Committee membership• Membership of the Tenants Forum or other Community Groups• Attracting funding opportunities for investment in the community • Forming a new community group or developing a project• Take up training opportunities • Environmental projects• Suggestions and/or ideas for doing things di�erently

We are also in the process of setting up a Reading Group who will be responsible for reading over our copy before it goes to the printer to ensure it is in plain English and free of jargon. If you would like to play a part in this group please contact Elena Lloyd on 0151 480 1313.

The Housing Federation which has overseen not for pro�t housing associations and campaigns for better housing and neighbourhoods on behalf of residents ceased to exist in December 2008. In January 2009 it was replaced by the Tenants Services Authority which will now carry out this function. They are the new regulator for a�ordable housing, and their goal is to raise the standard of services for tenants.

The Tenants Services Authority is keen to listen to the voice of residents and has started a National Conversation with tenants across the country which is your chance to tell the TSA what services are most important to you as a tenant of a housing association. This will help them to set standards that will make sure Villages gives you excellent service.

The Tenants Forum and representatives from other community groups came together at a meeting with Villages Area Director, Bernie McConnell for a Local Conversation. At this meeting everyone completed TSA Surveys which asked detailed questions about housing provision and what issues were most important to residents. This information will inform service provision standards in social housing in the years to come.

For further information visit www.nationalconversation.co.uk and

www.tenantservicesauthority.org

Tenants’ PageTenants Forum

TSA

The Tenants Forum on Stockbridge Village meets on the �rst Monday of every month, except for August when there isn’t a meeting, in the boardroom at Villages Housing o�ce. Fitton Hill Forum members chose to meet every other month rather than monthly, but will be �exible if special matters arise for discussion.

Members of Fitton Hill’s Forum and Stockbridge Village’s Forum attend quarterly joint meeting.

As well as in�uencing service provision, the forum organises events for the community such as the Christmas Grotto and European Neighbours Day.

The SV Forum plays an active role in the estate’s annual entry to ‘North West in Bloom’ by drawing down funding, supporting other projects and taking particular responsibility for the displays at the Croft.

The Chair of the SV Tenants Forum, Lily Earle, says “Everyone is welcome to attend our meetings to �nd out what we do for the estate but it isn’t just about meetings our main aim is to promote a better quality of life for everyone who lives here.

There are many opportunities through the Forum for training and to attend conferences around the country. When we meet up with residents from Fitton Hill we always have a good laugh!”

Eileen Clegg, Fitton Hill forum member, says, "The way forward these days is for tenants to take the lead in developing their communities and we would welcome more people, particularly young people, to join the Tenants Forums (on both estates) and have a say. Although it is not always practical for tenants' ideas to become a reality, our views are always listened to and our ideas discussed - for instance it was tenants who fought for 6' side and rear fencing and we won!"

If you would like to get involved with either Forum group please speak to Barbara Murray or Jan Taylor.

The next forum meetings are scheduled for Monday 6 April 1pm-3pm (SV) and Monday 15 April 3pm - 4pm (FH), and Thursday 16 April 12-3pm for the joint meeting at Stockbridge Village.

The Network also works with other partners and agencies to support events and activities which promote community cohesion and good quality services to residents.

If you wish to get involved in Stockbridge Village Network please contact Patrick Goodison, Area Development O�cer (Stockbridge) on 0151 443 5855, and remember to tell him you heard about it in “Our Times”.

The Stockbridge Village Network was set up to encourage partnership working between local community groups and to create a structure whereby residents can in�uence decisions taken in their neighbourhoods.

The Network meets on a six weekly cycle and the membership is representative of community groups from the estate. The Chair of the Network attends Partnership Engagement meetings with all the Chairs of the other Networks in North Huyton. This group is responsible for conveying residents concerns and issues to the Partnership Board. The board is a partnership of KMBC o�cers and representatives from other agencies operating in Knowsley including Villages Housing Association.

The Stockbridge Village Network

Stockbridge Village Network



OurTimes

THESE WILL CHANGE

Performance: How Are We Doing?

We want to improve the services we o�er you, so we keep a constant check on how we are doing.

The tables below show you how we are performing against our targets, for Villages Housing Association (VHA) and Villages Community Housing Association (VCHA) which is the Charitable subsidiary of Villages Housing Association.

Key Performance for the year to date is at or better than target

The trend over the previous three months is improving

Performance for the year to date is around the target figure

Performance is steady or there is no significant trend over the previous three months

Performance for the year to date is below the target figure

The trend over the previous three months is worsening

Villages Housing Association Oct Nov Dec Target Year to Date

Trend

Average re-let times (The number of days it takes us to let out homes)

39.5 39 37 37.5 % Emergency repairs complete within target time (The % of emergency repairs completed on time)

97% 95% 96.4% 100%

% Urgent repairs complete within target time (The % of urgent repairs completed on time)

97% 95% 96.4% 98%

% Routine repairs complete within target time (The % of routine repairs completed on time)

97% 95% 96.4% 98%

% overall satisfaction with day to day repairs (The percentage of customers who were satisfied with their repairs)

100% 100% 99% 95%

% of properties with a valid gas certificate. (The % of properties which have had their annual gas safety check)

100% 100% 100% 100%

Rent collected as a % of net rent charged (The % of rent collected since April 2008)

103% 101% 105% 99%

Average Phone Response time (secs) (The average amount of time it takes to answer a phone call)

9 9 11 10



OurTimes

“No Rent Due” week 6th April

Come along and listen to wonderful stories and take part in creative play and arts and craft. Words and Pictures is for children under 5 and their parents/guardians. It is a planned hour long session and is based around a di�erent theme each week. The activities allow families to explore and enjoy their library, and help young children develop both social and creative skills.

Week commencing Monday 6th April is a 'No Rent Due' week. This only applies to those who have a clear rent account. Customers who have an arrear on their account must make payment as normal on that week.

If you are having di�culty in paying your rent and would like advice and assistance, please contact your Estate Management O�cer for a con�dential chat. For further information on “No Rent Due” Week please contact your local Villages o�ce.

Villages Community Housing Association

Oct Nov Dec Target Year to Date

Trend

Average re-let times (The number of days it takes us to let out homes)

40 40 40 50 % Emergency repairs complete within target time (The % of emergency repairs completed on time)

100% 100% 98% 100%

% Urgent repairs complete within target time (The % of urgent repairs completed on time)

100% 99% 95% 98%

% Routine repairs complete within target time (The % of routine repairs completed on time)

97% 97% 95% 98%

% overall satisfaction with day to day repairs (The percentage of customers who were satisfied with their repairs)

100% 100% 99% 95%

% of properties with a valid gas certificate. (The % of properties which have had their annual gas safety check)

100% 100% 100% 100%

Rent collected as a % of net rent charged (The % of rent collected since April 2008)

109% 107% 108% 99%

Average Phone Response time (secs) (The average amount of time it takes to answer a phone call)

9 9 11 10



OurTimes


Room To Spare?

AFTER HOURS

EVERY WEDNESDAY 4-5PM

STOCKBRIDGE CASE STUDY


WORDS AND PICTURES

If you think that you would be interested in being a Lodging Provider, or want to know more about the scheme, email [email protected] or contact First Choice Homes Oldham Housing Support Scheme on 0161 770 3558.

Caring people across Oldham are needed to make a real and lasting di�erence to someone’s life by providing help, support and accommodation to adults with varying support needs.

Supported lodgings is seen as a ‘stepping stone’ for people who might need some support to gain the skills to manage their own tenancy. First Choice Homes’ Supported Lodgings Scheme has been running for more than 11 years and in that time has helped over 100 people

Kath, who has been a Lodging Provider for ll years, said: “I have supported 12 lodgers and would recommend to anyone thinking of providing supported lodgings to give it a try. My top tips are that you need to be understanding and be a good listener. A sense of humour is also a plus. When I applied it was a pilot scheme, I was interested in helping out. Everyone deserves a chance in life.”

So if you have a spare room, are able to share a kitchen, bathroom and lounge and are happy to o�er support and attend training why not apply to be a Lodging Provider. Placements may be needed for a few months, or more than a year, depending on how well the placement is going and if the lodger feels ready to move on. Sta� from FCHO will provide support, training and up to £200 a week depending upon the level of support required. FCHO Chief Executive Hugh Broadbent said: “We hope that people with a spare room will be willing to o�er it to someone who is not quite ready to live alone. But it’s not just accommodation, we also want people to provide practical and emotional support and friendship“.

RecipeThe nation is in the grip of a credit crunch, so here’s a recipe for a delicious meal using your leftovers.

SPANISH POTATO TORTILLATortillas make the most of your leftover cooked vegetables and cheese and cooked meats like spicy ham or sausage.

INGREDIENTS Feeds 4

1 Tablespoon olive oil350 g potatoes, sliced thinly1 large onion, sliced thinly6 large eggsSalt and ground black pepperLeftover spicy sausage or hamCheese to sprinkle over

METHOD

1- Heat the olive oil in a large pan. Add the potatoes and onion and cook gently for 20-30 minutes until softened, without browning the onion.2- Beat the eggs in a large bowl. Season well and add the potatoes and onion mixture. Combine well and tip into a non-stick frying pan.3- Cook over a gentle heat for 10-12 minutes until set, and then scatter over the sausage slices and cheese. Place under a hot grill until golden brown.

Are you a budding Delia or Gordon?

Do you have some delicious money saving recipes you would like to share?

If so, send them in to Elena Lloyd at the Stockbridge O�ce or email [email protected], and your recipe might feature in the next edition of “Our Times”.

mmmm!!



OurTimes


WIN A NINTENDO Wii



WORDS AND PICTURES

Status Survey

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 9am -12.30pm, 1.30pm - 5.00pmWednesday 10am - 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 5.00pmPlease note that the cash o�ce closes at 4.15pm daily.There is a FREE to use cash machine in reception.

Squash NutritionOver the next year or so, Clare and Becky from Squash Nutrition will be working on a good food and healthy cooking project with residents of Stockbridge Village.

They started work just before Christmas and in February they held a tasty soup event in the Craigs Community Centre, where residents could sign up for future cooking sessions.

Clare and Becky will be holding some more taster sessions in March and then in April will start some courses for people who would like to develop their cooking skills further.If you would like to come to a taster session please contact Becky or Clare directly on 07791455593 or speak to Barbara Murray at Villages on 0151 480 1313.

STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGE Monday 9am to 4.15pm Tuesday 9am to 4.15pm Wednesday 10am to 4.15pm Thursday 9am to 4.15pm Friday 9am to 4.15pm

Rent Office Opening Times

FITTONHILL 9am -12.30pm, 1.30pm - 4.15pm 9am -12.30pm, 1.30pm - 4.15pm

10am - 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 4.15pm9am -12.30pm, 1.30pm - 4.15pm9am -12.30pm, 1.30pm - 4.15pm

Customer ProfilingWe are trying to update our customer information to help us plan and improve our services.

Your co-operation in completing a questionnaire or responding to a telephone call from our sta� will be greatly appreciated and help us to improve the services we provide to you. If you would prefer to discuss this in person, or in private, we will be happy to arrange an appointment to see you.

Q. What is Customer Pro�ling?A. In order for us to tailor our services to meet the needs of all our customers, we need to know some personal details about you. This includes your age, gender, National Insurance number, any disabilities you may have, contact details, your language and preferred method of communication (by this we mean how would you like us to contact you, by letter, phone, email, text, audio C.D., or would you like your letters to be written using large text?), ethnicity, religion or belief and sexual orientation. Customer pro�ling information is also collected so we can meet our legal duties as an organisation.

Q. Why should I answer these questions?A. To help us provide the highest standard of service to all our customers. we need to �nd out certain things about you, your circumstances and importantly your needs. We will ensure that we take your needs into account when we contact you or o�er you a service.

Q. How will Villages use my information?A. Any information that is provided by you will only be used by Villages. We will not share this information with anyone without your permission.

Q. What happens if I don’t want to answer all of the questions?A. We would really appreciate it if you would provide any information requested. however if you decide not to answer a certain question we will respect your decision.

HELP US TO HELP YOUWe currently do not have up to date phone numbers on many of our customers. Please provide us with your up to date telephone/mobile number next time you contact us.




Your Responsibility as a Tenant


Your Responsibility Gas Servicing - Let Us In!!

We are responsible for making sure that our gas �ttings and �ues are maintained in good order, and gas appliances and �ues are checked for safety every 12 months. If you have gas appliances in your property, we will contact you every year to agree a date and time to come and carry out a service.

Appointments can be made Monday to Friday between 8am and 1pm and 1pm and 5pm or Saturday morning between 8am and 12pm.

If you have arranged for gas appliances to be installed yourself, you must let us know, so that we have an accurate record of what appliances are in our properties. We will also service these appliances at no extra cost to you.

We take our responsibility seriously and will take all necessary action to ensure we comply with our duties and obligations. Please do not ignore our letters.

You should:

• Allow prompt access to your home to carry out maintenance or safety checks on gas appliances, �ues, and gas pipework, installed by Villages Housing Association.

• Turn o� any gas equipment if you are worried about its safety and contact Villages Housing Association immediately to register your concerns.

• Always keep the appointment made for the inspection of your gas equipment.

• Failure to give our contractor reasonable access to your home is a breach of your Tenancy Agreement and could result in legal action to enforce access or end your tenancy. We hope this will never be necessary, but we will not hesitate to take action where the health and safety of our tenants or their neighbours may be at risk.

Rogue ContractorsVillages are currently working in partnership with Eaga Insulation Ltd to upgrade loft & cavity wall insulation to all our properties. We are aware that some of you have been approached by contractors other than Eaga to carry out this service 'free of charge'.

Please note that these contractors are not on our approved list and are acting independently without our permission. As such, we strongly advise that only operatives showing Eaga identi�cation, and with prior arranged appointments, be let into your home.

If you are in any doubt please call the Villages o�ce on 0151 480 1313. We thank you for your co-operation with this matter.

tenancy. We hope this will never be necessary, but we will not hesitate to take action where the health and safety of our tenants or their neighbours may be at risk.

W I N

A

P R I Z E ! !

We are responsible for making sure that our gas

Our Responsibility as a Landlord

If you provide us with timely access to your home on the 1st appointment with our contractor to carry out these 12 month safety checks, you will be entered into a monthly prize draw. The winner will receive £50 in shopping vouchers.

Your Responsibility Your Responsibility W I N

A

P R I Z E ! !



OurTimes

Fitton Hill Sports Zone Takes Shape


WIN A NINTENDO Wii



WORDS AND PICTURES

Plans to develop a Sport Zone on the underused land at the rear of the Centre for Professional Development (CPD) on Rosary Road in Fitton Hill are taking shape. The scheme was agreed at Oldham Council cabinet on Monday 27th October 2008. The proposals include the development of 6 or 9 MUGA (Multi Use Games Areas) pitches which will be all weather and �oodlit and can be used for mini football tournaments, basketball, rugby and a whole array of other sports.

The NDC programme will invest £1.8m to make the £3m scheme a reality and are currently in discussion with the Football Association and other sources to �nd the additional money. The development will be a real asset to the community and will give people in the New Deal for Communities (NDC) area and in Oldham, state of the art sports facilities, which everyone, from local sports clubs, to individuals can access and enjoy.

Such a scheme is also one of �ve schemes prioritised in the Oldham’s agreed Local Area Plan. The Plan highlights the need for more sports facilities in Oldham to prevent local clubs and local players having to go out of the area to practice and play because of the lack of pitches in Oldham. The planning application for the Sports Zone was submitted in December 2008 and subject to approval the scheme will start on site in March or April 2009. For further information please contact the NDC Programme on 0161 785 9716.

The Fitton Hill Neighbourhood Centre development is progressing and an architect has been commissioned through Community First (the Primary Care Trust development partner), to produce indicative designs for the building with potential partners to assist in the development of a costing for the centre.

The Primary Care Trust (PCT) and other partners are committed to this development and as a temporary measure the PCT has agreed with the Council that a section of land across from Medlock Valley School should be developed as a temporary home for a number of medical sta� from March 2009.

Work is continuing with the Youth O�ending Service and the Library on Fitton Hill to ensure that their requirements are included.

The PCT has also outlined the kinds of health services which will be included in the Centre.

It is expected that the Neighbourhood Centre will be completed by October 2010. For further information please contact the NDC Programme on 0161 785 9716.

Status Survey

NDC Temporary Health Centre

Village now o�er many methods of payment for your convenience when paying rent. The available methods are:

• At your local housing o�ce using cash, cheque or debit card.

• Over the telephone using your debit card

• At any Pay Point centre using your tenancy card

• By Direct Debit weekly on a Monday or Monthly on 1st or 15th of the month.

How to Pay Your Rent



OurTimes

Mobile Police SurgeriesHathershaw & Fitton Hill

2009 Oldham Carnival

AFTER HOURS


REMEMBER THESE?!


WORDS AND PICTURES

Well that’s our theme for Villages entry in the 2009 carnival parade. I know – they’re all men! Well, in this age of Equality & Diversity we’re about to change all that... the majority of our sta� on and with the �oat are female; but we’re about to bring a whole new look to THE VILLAGE PEOPLE!

After winning ‘Best in Parade’ in 2007 we were sadly not able to enter in 2008 – but look out for our 2009 entry as we want to win again!

The carnival this year will take place over the weekend of 27/28 June, with the parade being on Saturday 27 June commencing at Kings Road (alongside Alexander Park), making its way up Park Road, along Ashton Road and down Honeywell Lane and back to Kings Road.

Is there anyone out there who would like to get involved with us? Could you walk the 2 mile route with our �oat singing ‘YMCA’ or ‘In the Navy’?! Could you front our �oat riding a motorbike? Do you have a leather out�t you’d like to �aunt? Are you handy with a needle & thread that could help us ‘stitch up’ �rst prize again, or do you have an artistic �air that could help us design the �oat? If there is any way in which you could get involved with us we would welcome your opinions, ideas and input.

If you would like more information please contact Jan Taylor on 0161 633 4060, or e-mail [email protected].

People living in Medlock Vale are being given the chance to visit mobile police surgeries run by the local neighbourhood police team. The team is made up of 4 Police O�cers and 5 Police Community Support O�cers (PCSOs) at di�erent locations around Fitton Hill. The surgeries will take place at di�erent times to give everyone the opportunity to attend should they want to. This is an opportunity to meet your local Police O�cers and PCSOs to discuss, in con�dence, any crime issues you may have.

Police Surgery Date Surgery Time Location of Mobile Unit Thursday 2 April 2009 2.30 – 4.30pm Fircroft Road (Villages car park) Fitton Hill Thursday 16 April 2009 5 – 8pm Westerhill Road, Fitton Hill Monday 11 May 2009 2.30 – 4.30pm Holy Rosary School (near entrance) Fitton Hill Friday 29th May 5 – 8pm The Green, Fitton Hill Wednesday 17 June 2.30 – 4.30pm Fircroft Road (Villages car park) Fitton Hill Tuesday 30 June 5 – 8pm Westerhill Road, Fitton Hill Friday 24 July 5 – 8pm The Spur, Fitton Hill



OurTimes


Creating New Jobs

AFTER HOURS


PROJECT HELPS1700 LOCAL PEOPLE GET NEW JOBS


STOCKBRIDGE CASE STUDYThe Knowsley Works Plus (KW+) service was established in December 2006 and provides support to any person living in Knowsley who is actively seeking employment or training opportunities. However, priority is given to residents who are lone parents, women returners, have been in receipt of income support, have low or no quali�cations or aged 50 years and over.

In the past 12 months Villages Housing has been working in partnership with KW+ to help residents access and promote the scheme. In April 2009 the KW+ bus will be transferring its activities to a new centre at Unit 2 in the shops at the Croft. This will be the 4th KW+ centre in Knowsley - the other 3 centres are located in Page Moss in Huyton, the Halewood Centre in Halewood and The Market Place in Kirkby.

Over the last 2 years the KW+ service has worked with over 4,500 Knowsley residents of which over 1,600 have gone into training and over 1,700 have gone into employment. By opening a new centre in Stockbridge Village, it is hoped that residents living in this area who have not previously used the Knowlsey Works Plus service, will be able to do so.

Each centre provides a range of services which include a job search, help with application forms, CV preparation, interview training and contribution towards the cost of tools, protective clothing, travel and in some instances training.

When you register with KW+ you’ll be assigned to a client advisor who will provide one to one support for you to �nd you a job or training opportunites.

Client A is a Stockbridge resident who was a Lone-Parent, long term unemployed. She called onto the Jobs Bus as she was keen to get back into work now that her children were older, and wanted to work in Retail or Customer Service. Firstly Knowsley Works helped her compile an up to date CV, so we could promote her to employers. In the meantime a vacancy became available in a local supermarket, which the client was eager to get.

We got her the Job Application form from the local Jobcentre, and helped her to complete the form. The client was successful at this stage and was invited to interview, so we gave her some interview techniques to help her sell herself to the employer and increase her chances of getting the job. The client was successful at interview and was o�ered the job. We then referred her to the Knowsley Works Plus team for �nancial assistance with travel expenses.

Three months after starting the position, the client received a Customer Service Award, as a result of customer compliments.

The client came back to tell us that she could not have got the job without the support of the Knowsley Works Engagement Team in Stockbridge Village.

SaferKnowsley

PartnershipVillages are working with the Safer Knowsley Partnership (SKP) and local communities to make Knowsley a safer place to live, work or visit.

VHA and SKP are committed to reducing crime and disorder and to improve communication within the community. So the SKP have introduced 'Community Messaging'. This is a new message alert system which links Merseyside Police and the community by providing up to date, relevant and timely crime information to our members within Knowsley.

If you join Knowsley Community Messaging and you can be informed by email, text, fax or voice message to your mobile or landline telephone about local crime issues, crime reduction advice, appeals for witnesses and other speci�c information relevant to where you live or work.

If you have any information about crime in your area, the Community Messaging System will allow you to reply to the messages con�dentially, all from the comfort of your own home!

To register or to �nd out more, visit

www.knowsleycommunitymessaging.org or call the Community Messaging

Administrator on 0151 777 6217.



OurTimes

college full time studying counselling, psychology, sociology, maths, English and ICT.

Speaking about her award, Liz said, “My TESS project o�cer was very supportive when I was su�ering and distressed at a very di�cult time in my life. Without the help of the agency I could not have done this.”

A former TESS Service User has been awarded the “Standing Strong Award” by The Social Partnership.

Liz Sharp was helped by Villages’ Tenants Extra Support Scheme (TESS). This service helps tenants throughout Knowsley with issues such as rent arrears, safety, accessing training or other services.

Liz was presented with her award by Councillor Flo Clucas, Deputy Leader of Liverpool City Council, at Liverpool Town Hall, at the event held to mark The Social Partnership’s 15th Year.

Supporting PeopleTESS Service User’s Award

The Standing Strong Award is presented to people who have persevered with their program and showed a strong desire to succeed and a belief in themselves.

Liz has faced a number of harrowing experiences throughout her life but TESS provided Liz with support to help her maintain her tenancy, by providing bene�t maximisation and debt advice. Liz was encouraged to be referred on to other specialist agencies to help with her further education and training.

She has appeared on TV and radio to talk about her experiences. She now has her own �at and is at

TESS held a service users’ day at Roughsedge House on Tuesday 27 January.

Focused on all aspects of health and emotional wellbeing, the day o�ered tenants access to courses run by PRISM designed to increase self-esteem.

Michelle Askew, TESS Team Leader, said “The most positive aspect of the event is it gives our service users access to other services in a safe, comfortable environment.”

After being treated to a free lunch, guests were able to take advantage of the services provided by such organisations as

TESS Provides AccessMoney Advice and Budgeting (MABS), Credit Union, PCT, Fag Ends and IKAN, who were also in attendance, before having the chance to win prizes in a free ra�e.

Peter Hyde from the Integrated Commissioning Team said, “TESS is a valuable service, it provides excellent support for mental health service users, and long may it continue.”

Several members of Villages sta� will be taking part in this year’s Race for life for Cancer Research UK. Sta� from the Fitton Hill O�ce will be running at Alexandra Park, Oldham, on 19 July, and sta� from the Stockbridge Village o�ce will be running on 14 July at Knowsley Hall, Prescot, Merseyside. Please support our lovely ladies by sponsoring them.

You can sponsor them online at www.raceforlife.org or call into your local Villages o�ce for more information.

Race For Life



OurTimes

‘Strictly’ Comesto Fitton Hill

The ‘Fun For All Ages’ group of young people (from the Youth Service Xpress bus) and ‘not so young people’ (from Skills Swap Shop members) had another great half term day out on Wednesday 18 February.

We visited Mayfair Dance Studios in Heywood, where the young people were given the opportunity to try out ballroom dancing (or ‘old time dancing’ as it used to be called). Some of the older generation had obviously tried the waltz etc., before – but for most of the group the cha-cha-cha was certainly a new and fun experience. Apart from just 3 of the party who sat on the sidelines and enjoyed watching, everyone else including the mini bus drivers gave it a go!

Afterwards it was o� for a lovely meal – with FREE dessert for everyone because the restaurant had forgotten to reserve our table the last time the group visited. The puddings were huge, but one Skills Swap Shop member still managed to eat two! We’ll be generous and not reveal a name!!

Comments on the return journey included “Absolutely fantastic!” “Can we do it again?” and “We’ve all had a great time and weren’t the young people up for giving it a go!”

We have a new way of letting our homes. From 9th March 2009 we have moved to a ‘Banding’ Policy. This means that instead of applicants being awarded points to re�ect their circumstances, all applications will be placed in one of three ‘bands’ and properties will be let in order from the date of application which means that the applicant who has been on the Housing Register the longest, will receive the next o�er of property.

This is a much fairer way of letting properties as under the old ‘Points’ system applicants who were awarded higher points than others were able to jump over them to a higher place on the waiting list. A brief summery of the bands is shown below.

Band TwoHousing Need - General (Evidence will be required)Examples of Band Two circumstances are: demolition (none Villages properties), certain medical conditions, homelessness, relationship Breakdown or Overcrowding.

Band ThreeSustainability – Applicants with low ‘housing need’Examples of Band Three circumstances are: under-occupation, local connection (has family in the area, has previously lived in the area, children attend school in the area), working in the area, to take up a �rm o�er of employment or to be closer to current employment.

Existing Villages tenants who wish to move to another Villages property but have no housing need will be accepted into Band 3.

However, the property they intend to leave must be left in good condition with no outstanding repairs that would normally be recharged to the tenant and the property must be clean and well decorated.

Letting Our Homes

Band OneHousing Need - E m e r g e n c i e s (Evidence will be required)Examples of Band One circumstances: demolition (Villages properties only) certain serious medical conditions, serious harassment or domestic violence.





Stockbridge Regeneration PlansStockbridge Village Residents have given the “thumbs up” to proposals for the redevelopment of the area. Almost 150 residents attended an event held by Knowsley Council, in November 2008, to get a �rst glimpse of how the new village centre might look and what new facilities are planned. They were then given the opportunity to provide their comments and feedback. The response was overwhelmingly positive with 94% of people asked stating that the improvements outlined will add things to the area that it needs and make Stockbridge Village a better place to live.Knowsley Council have proposed:- A real centre for the village; - An improved retail o�er;- A brand new swimming pool; - A new outdoor play area;- A new gym and sports hall; - Well lit and well connected centre;- New multi-use games area and pitches; - Open and inviting building layout;- A new primary school with children’s centre and nursery;- New sporting activities for young people in the gym, sports hall and all-weather pitches;- A new hub building with library, cafe and community space.

We will keep you updated on the progress of this project in future editions of “Our Times”.

Christ The King Catholic and Church of England Centre for Learning is the �rst of seven brand new “Centres for learning” to open in Knowsley.

Located on Stockbridge Lane, Huyton, Christ The King opened its doors in January with a launch by Rt Hon Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families.

It will provide a world-class school for pupils and teachers as well as a state-of-the-art recreational, sports and educational centre for the community beyond normal working hours.

Principal, Karol Grabowski, said, “Being Principal for Christ The King is an exciting challenge and I am really looking forward to the opportunities this will a�ord to students and the local community alike.”

For further information on how residents of Stockbridge Village and community groups can make use of the facilities available at Christ The King, please contact the school on 0151 477 8800 or email [email protected]

Christ The King Catholic and Church of England Centre for Learning is

Christ The King Opens Its Doors



OurTimesDonations

Research has shown that in the New Deal for Communities (NDC) area of Hathershaw and Fitton Hill, anti social behaviour peaks on Friday and Saturday evenings because there is nothing interesting and exciting to do.

Working in partnership with Oldham Athletic Community Trust (OACT) Oldham Council Sports Development, Oldham Community Leisure, Youth Services, Groundwork, Youth Inclusion Project (YIP), and NDC, Villages has become involved in a project to o�er FREE evening football sessions for the 13 to 19 years age group.

Villages recently donated £500 to the Ellen MacArthur Trust. At the recent sta� away day, Villages sta� were treated to an inspiring presentation by Tony Summers on teamwork.

Tony insisted that instead of paying him a fee, Villages make a donation to the Ellen MacArthur Trust as his daughter worked for the organisation.

The money donated will help the Trust to inspire young people recovering from cancer and leukaemia.

At Christmas, here at Villages, instead of giving colleagues Christmas cards the Directors each give £10 to a charity nominated by the rest of the sta�. This year sta� voted for RNLI to receive the donation and a cheque for £75 has been sent to them.

Together Let’s Kick ASB From Our Community!

TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR FORMER RESIDENT OF STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGE

Michael Laski

Make Sure Your Savings Are Safe!

Coaching, competitions and freestyle sessions will be available from 6th March 2009 at the Honeywell Centre, Ashton Road, EVERY Friday & Saturday 6.30pm to 9.30pm

We were delighted to support this project with a Community Budget Grant.

BSL Service

Borrowed from

Weekly Repayment

Total Interest

Total Repayment

YOU SAVE

CREDIT UNION

£3.35 £3.73 £103.73 £51.27

Doorstep Lender

£5.00 £55.00 £155.00

Borrowed from

Weekly Repayment

Total Interest

Total Repayment

YOU SAVE

CREDIT UNION

£13.28 £40.53 £690.43 £458.67

Doorstep Lender

£22.10 £499.20 £1,149.20

We were delighted to support this project with a Community Budget Grant.

By the time you read this, our club will have had its 25th Anniversary party. Having to contact members who have moved on for one reason or another, to come and join us for the night has brought back so many memories. There has been so much to talk about even looking at the old photos and seeing how people have changed.

It was on the 8th March 1984, that 14 of us and Sister Janet’s dog, called Robbie, went to Ingleborough in the Yorkshire Dales. At 723 metres (or 2350 feet) it was a good climb and a great day out had by all. Ever since that day we have been to so many beautiful places, walked some long distance paths and raised a few bob for charity along the way.

We have had so many people come to join us who have lived locally all their lives, and say they never knew there were so many beautiful places on their doorstep! Some of the wildlife you can see is beautiful. We’ve seen otters and stoats, watched ospreys catching �sh and buzzards training their young to �y. Once we found an eel on the beach and tried to put it back in the water. We never laughed so much as one at a time we tried to pick up the eel, but after half an hour we �nally got it back in the water!!

Ramblers’ DiaryWe could easily �ll “Our Times” with our memories, but looking to the future we are now looking forward to a warm, dry summer. It’s been a long, cold winter and the snow, when it melted, left the footpaths in a bad state. But we have managed to get out and had some good walks around Dunham Massey. Walking through herds of deer, with the stags and their large antlers just a few feet away, some of the group were a bit nervous, but the deer were not interested in us. We have also been on the Wirral and around Northwich, where all the salt comes from.

Now the nights are getting a bit lighter, we can go a bit further a�eld, and remember you are always welcome to join us! We walk every 2 weeks on a Saturday between 8 and 10 miles, and it’s a great way to get �t and see the countryside.

Gwen Osbourne, Secretary, Stockbridge Village Ramblers – 0151 220 5837



OurTimes

Have You Got A Great Idea?COULD UP TO £5000 HELP TO COVER THE COSTS?

Beat The Burglar

The Respect Our Community Awards have been designed to enable the communities of Oldham to be as imaginative as possible when trying to resolve issues of nuisance that a�ect them in the area where they live.

Your idea will be considered by a panel who meet every couple of months.

The aims of the grants are to : - • Build con�dent communities that pull together to solve problems that a�ect them.• Raise awareness of other sections of Oldham’s diverse community.• Increase participation of community events to help bring neighbourhoods together.• Develop skills of individual people so that in turn those new found skills will bene�t the community.

Villages Housing has contributed towards the fund, along with many Oldham companies and organisations including Oldham Athletic FC, Oldham Coliseum and other housing providers.

If you have an idea and are not sure where to start come and talk to us. Please contact Jan Taylor on 0161 633 4060 or e-mail [email protected] or pick up a lea�et from Villages’ reception, or download the application pack from www.fcho.co.uk

Avoid That Sinking FeelingTAKE OUT HOME CONTENTS INSURANCE

We would recommend that all tenants have home contents insurance to protect their property in the event of this happening to them and prevent the distress caused by a �ooded home.

For tenants at Fitton Hill, it is relatively cheap to insure your home contents against such damage as First Choice Homes work in partnership with us to make their Home Contents Insurance available to you. You can cover your contents with a Sum Insured of £10,000 for less than £2 per week! And, if you are over the age of 60 Sum Insured values of £6,000 - £8,000 are available from £1.19 to £1.59 per week.

You can collect an application form and details from the Fitton Hill housing o�ce, or one will be posted to you on request.

During the spell of prolonged freezing weather during January and February, two of our properties su�ered extensive damage when they were left unoccupied and without heating, as a result of which they su�ered burst water pipes.



OurTimes

Charlie BarnardCharlie joined Villages’ TESS team as a Project O�cer at the start of December 2008. Charlie’s background is in retail management with over 15 years of dealing with people at the front line of a business. He started his career within a Supporting People role 5 years ago. He has a good knowledge base within the mental health services, housing and bene�ts.

Special Congratulations to Charlie who recently received con�rmation that he completed his NVQ level 3 in Health and Social Care.

NEW STARTERSNEW STARTERS

Villages Staff


Lyn started working for Villages in February 2009 as a part time Administrative Support O�cer for the TESS team. She will maintain clients' records and update database information. Lyn has worked in the �nancial industry for a bank for 30 years, the last ten have been spent supporting several corporate sales managers.

Lyn enjoys keeping in contact with people and going to various concerts.

Maureen is a Temporary Project O�cer with the TESS Team until the end of April 2009. Maureen has worked in Housing on Merseyside for nearly 20 years, with experience in Housing Management, debt advice, tenant support and customer service. Maureen said "I am committed to working with tenants to help them sustain their tenancy and live independently.”

Hannah is a Trainee Admin Assistant at Villages on an apprenticeship for 3 years, as part of Knowsley Council’s “The Knowsley Apprentice” programme aimed at securing employment and training opportunities for Knowsley's young people. Hannah has previously worked in call centres.

Neil is the new Landscape Foreman at Villages, and has worked as a green keeper/gardener for 30 years.

Hannah is a Trainee Admin Assistant at

Hannah RileyMaureen is a Temporary Project O�cer with the TESS

Maureen Carhart

Neil is the new Landscape Foreman at Villages, and

Neil Ditchfield

Lynette Gage

Customer Excellence

Elena Lloyd Jordan FlynnJordan is a new Trainee CSO at Fitton Hill. He has been placed with Villages by Upturn Enterprise Ltd, who are a locally funded organisation providing employment, training and business services; specialising in housing. Jordan will be with Villages for between 6 and 8 months.

Jordan worked in Customer Service at the British Red Cross for 10 months as a volunteer.

Elena is Villages very �rst Marketing and Communications O�cer. She will be responsible for the newsletter, website, and any publications, posters, lea�ets or adverts. Although Elena is based at the Stockbridge Village o�ce she will be working across the whole company to promote Fitton Hill, VHA and VCHA. Elena has previously worked for the University of Central Lancashire in Preston, and various PR agencies in Merseyside.

Lesley has been appointed as the new Fitton Hill Scheme Manager. Lesley had been seconded to the role of scheme manager for the last couple of months, but her position has now been made permanent.

Lesley has been appointed as the new

Lesley Cutter



OurTimes

Park Bridge Heritage Centre, The Stables, Park Bridge, Ashton under Lyne. OL6 8AQ, 0161 330 9613

-Wednesday, 8th April 2009, Would you weave it (Groups please book), Time: 12-3pm -Monday, 13th April 2009, Mosey through the MossesTime : 10.30am - 2.30pm, Free Admission

- Wednesday, 15th April 2009, Family Discovery Trail,(Groups please book), Time:1pm-3.30pm, Free Admission

Portland Basin Museum,Tuesday - Sunday 10am- 5pm, Free Admission, Portland Place, Ashton under Lyne, OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878

Oldham Citizens Advice, Monday - Thursday 9am-4pm1-2 Ascroft Court, Peter Street,Oldham OL1 1HP0845 120 3703

Spring Board To Learning, Every Thursday 1130am-130pm41 Spring Street, Greenacre’s Oldham, OL4 2BD 0161 624 2934

What’s On & Where

FITTON HILL

FITTON HILL STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGENew Horizons Childrens Centre & Longview School, Knowsley Lane, Huyton, L36 8DB, 0151 477 8600, Or call Sev on 0151 443 5301.

- Yoga, Thursday 23 April (5 weeks taster course)930am-1130am

- Computers (6 week taster course) Start date TBC ,1pm-3pm

- Maths and English, Every Friday 1pm-3pm Ring Elaine on 0151 477 8240

Stress Management, Brookside Primary School, Every Friday 930am- 1130am, Ring Denise on 0151 489 4906

Family Cookery and Weaning courses at New Horizons and Acorns Childrens Centres - Ring Rob on 0151 477 8600, or Angela on 0151 480 7884

Citizens AdviceTuesday mornings 10am-12Villages Reception areaCall Jackie on 0845 124 300 for appointments

Cli�s & Craigs Easter fair, Saturday 4th April, 11.30am (see page 31)

You Said We Did...

Stockbridge Village LibraryStockbridge Village Library is located in the Heatwaves building, accessed through a separate entrance to the left.

Make sure your library is well used!

We also have many other adult learning opportunities on o�er ranging from basic computer courses to the more advanced such as E-Citizen. There are no set dates and times for the courses. If you are interested, just drop

in and discuss your needs with the sta�. For more details about any of the above contact sta� on 0151 480 3925.

Take part in arts and craft and play board games. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

AFTER HOURSEVERY WEDNESDAY 4-5PM

Poet Clare Campbell, who was in Stockbridge Village for “Around Knowsley in Eighty Reads Day”. This was organised through Knowsley Libraries as part of the celebrations for last years’ National Year of Reading.

WORDS AND PICTURES

Words and Pictures is for children under 5 and their parents/guardians. 1hr session, creative play, arts and craft and

stories.

EVERY MONDAY 2-3PM

This course is for beginners and is run over 10 weeks.

FAMILY HISTORY COURSESTARTS 20th APRIL 1-3PM



OurTimesDonations

Christ The King Catholic and Church of England Centre for Learning is the �rst of seven brand new “Centres for learning” to open in Knowsley.

Located on Stockbridge Lane, Huyton, Christ The King opened its doors in January with a launch by Rt Hon Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families.

It will provide a world-class school for pupils and teachers as well as a state-of-the-art recreational, sports and educational centre for the community beyond normal working hours.

Principal, Karol Grabowski, said, “Being Principal for Christ The King is an exciting challenge and I am really looking forward to the opportunities this will a�ord to students and the local community alike.”

For further information on how residents of Stockbridge Village and community groups can make use of the facilities available at Christ The King, please contact the school on 0151 477 8800 or email [email protected]

UNLOCKING KNOWSLEY’S HIDDEN GEMS

Michael LaskiChrist The King Opens its Doors

Annual Cliffs & Craigs Easter Fair

Maria Atkinson of Hollowcroft, Stockbridge Village, would like to thank all of her friends and neighbours from the estate, for all of the cards and messages she received whilst in hospital receiving treatment for Breast Cancer.

Maria Atkinson of Hollowcroft, Stockbridge

A BIG Thankyou!

Easter JokesQ: How do bunnies stay healthy?A: Eggercise

Q: Why was the rabbit rubbing his head?A: Because he had a eggache! (headache)

Q: Do you know how bunnies stay in shape?A: Hareobics.

Easter TraditionsMany people believed that the world was created from a giant egg and that the sun was the yolk of the egg. The ancient people of Hawaii thought that this giant egg burst and its pieces formed the Hawaiian Islands.

In Germany they have the “Easter Fire” where all the old Christmas trees are gathered up and burnt so as to clean away the last signs of winter and move onto spring.

Annual Cliffs & CraigsEaster Fair

The annual Cli�s and Craigs Easter fair will be taking place at the Craigs Community Centre on Saturday 4th April between 11.30 am and 3.30 pm.

There will be loads of di�erent activities on o�er including an Easter Bonnet Parade, with lots of yummy Easter Eggs to be won. There will also be community stalls, o�ering a tombola, ra�es and refreshments, proceeds of which are going to the Mayor of Knowsley’s Charity.

For further information, please contact Lena Johnson on 0151 489 9741.

Sudoku CornerFill the grid with numbers 1 to 9 so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9, without repeating any numbers.

1. Which came �rst, the chicken or the egg?

Brain Teasers

Send your answers for the Brain Teaser and Sudoku to Elena Lloyd at the Stockbridge O�ce for the chance to win a yummy Easter Egg!!

2. Your dad tells you that he will pay you £6.00 an hour for the 6 seconds that you take to wash your hands before dinner. How much did you make for washing your hands?

3. You are in a cookie factory, and need to make a huge batch of chocolate chip cookies. The recipe calls for exactly 4 cups of sugar. Problem is that you have two buckets. One is 5 cups, the other is 3 cups. Using these buckets, can you measure exactly 4 cups of sugar? How?

Villages Housing o�ces will close at 5pm on Thursday 9th April and reopen at 9am on Tuesday 14th April.

Easter Opening Times

If you need to report an emergency repair then please contact 0151 290 7375 (Stockbridge Village) or in Fitton Hill you can call Premier Heating for your gas heating and boiler emergencies on 0161 351 0011, or Jackson Lloyd for emergency repairs on 0845 389 7247.

Sudoku CornerFill the grid with numbers 1 to 9 so that every Fill the grid with numbers 1 to 9 so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9, without repeating any numbers. Your dad tells you that he will pay you £6.00 an hour for

the 6 seconds that you take to wash your hands before dinner. How much did you make for washing your hands?

W I N

A

P R I Z E ! !

8 24 1 92 8 6 3 53 4 9 7 9 7 8

5 8 37 1 2 6 6

2 4 9 96 1 4 2 3

1 6



OurTimes

NEW STARTERS

Tenants’ PagePlease note the skip service cannot take fridges, freezers, gas bottles or tyres. For free removal of these items phone Knowsley Contract Services on 0151 443 2400, or Oldham Council on 0161 770 6644 . Thank You.The Skips will be sited on Thursdays, early morning, and removed around lunch time.

Location of Skips First Skip Next SkipSouthcroft 26 February 7 May(grassed central area)

Wildbrook Crescent 5 March 14 May(car park to front of Nos 59-85)

Rosary Road 12 March 21 May(opposite No 66)

Woodpark Close 19 March 28 May(to the side of No 60)

Fold View 26 March 4 June(on the grass across from The Ace)

Snipe Road & Bank�eld Drive 2 April 11 June(grassed area at the junction)

Dowry Street 9 April 18 June(on the car park)

St Cuthberts Church, Tanners Fold 16 April 25 June(in the grounds of the Church)

Sportsmans Drive 23 April 2 July(in the parking bay on the left)

Reins Lea Avenue 30 April 9 July(grassed central area)

What’s On & Where

Skip Dates

Fitton Hill Address:2 Fircroft Road,Fitton Hill,Oldham,OL8 2QNTel: 0161 633 4060Fax: 0161 628 5920

2 April 2009 – Car park to rear of the Barley Mow

9 April 2009 – Car park opposite 8-10 Plumtree Close

16 April 2009 – Rosewood Close

23 April 2009 – Cli�s Car Park

30 April 2009 – Car Park to rear of 328 Boode Croft

7 May 2009 – Car Park adjacent to 135 Boode Croft

14 May 2009 – Car park opposite cul de sac Hollow Croft

21 May 2009 – Car park opposite 93 Custley Hey/ 64 Woodfarm Hey

28 May 2009 – Car park adjacent to open space Marled Hey

4 June 2009 – Car park 3 /4 Spruce Grove/ 53 Brandearth Hey

11 June 2009 – Car Park on corner between 33 / 34 The Spinney

18 June 2009 – To rear of 180 Round Hey

25 June 2009 – Car park adjacent to 11 The Grove Dannette Hey

2 July 2009 – Car park to rear of the Barley Mow

9 July 2009 - Car park opposite 8-10 Plumtree Close

FITTON HILL

Rent SettingFITTON HILL

STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGE

Fitton Hill Address:

Contact DetailsStockbridge Village Address16 The Croft,Stockbridge Village,Knowsley,Merseyside, L28 1NRTel: 0151 480 1313Fax: 0151 480 5189

email: [email protected]

Documents

Our Times Spring 2009