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May 2009 : Issue 3Services for a brighter future
Language Line 0191 433 5380
0191 433 5382 [email protected] www.gatesheadhousing.co.uk
Information is also available in large print, audio or Braille on request. Call 0191 433 5382 or 0191 433 5380 for more information.
You can also fax to 0191 433 5354, e-mail [email protected] use a minicom to 0191 433 5349 or text to 0762 480 4167 (start text with ‘ENQ’).
page 3page 3
Welcome to
The housing company got offto a great start in 2009 when the Audit Commission confi rmed its services are ‘excellent’ with ‘excellent prospects for improvement’.
Services for a brighter future
This issue...
• Top marks for The Gateshead Housing Company
• Home improvements across the borough
• Furniture replacement scheme starts
• Benefi ts – are you entitled?
• Gateshead Council agrees new property downsizing scheme
&now&&here
The independent report follows a full inspection of the company last November – see page 5 for full details.
And that’s not all the company is celebrating having recently won two national awards and saw its Older Persons’ Housing Manager’s work recognised.
The Sheltered Housing Management Team also marked its fi rst birthday recently by refl ecting on the changes to services it has helped to make - see page 6.
But the work does not stop there - you will fi nd details of the latest developments and up and coming services throughout this newspaper.
It’s important to us that this is your newspaper so if there is a topic you would like to see in the future contact our Communications Team on 0191 433 5386 or e-mail [email protected]
Councillor Peter Mole MBEGateshead Council’s championfor older people
The Gateshead Housing Company,Chief Executive: Bill Fullen.
Registered Offi ce: The Gateshead Housing Company, Keelman House, Fifth Avenue Business Park, Fifth Avenue, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0XA.
Registered in England and Wales No. 4944719.
To contact The Gateshead Housing Company News Team call 0191 433 5386 or e-mail [email protected]
Produced by barkingdog design and layout - 0191 265 4044; Photographs by Jill Ancrum, Ian Clarkin, Julie Dann and Matt Reilly, and care of Help the Aged. Printed by Cumbrian Newsprint - 01228 612600, www.cngroup.co.uk
This newspaper has been produced from the wood pulp of carefully farmed European coniferous forests. For every tree cut down, at least one more is planted to ensure that they are constantly regenerated.
Information is also available in large print, audio or Braille on request.Call 0191 433 5382 or 0191 433 5380 for more information.
You can also fax to 0191 433 5354, e-mail [email protected] a minicom to 0191 433 5349 or text to 0762 480 4167 (start text with ‘ENQ’).
page 4
The Gateshead Housing CompanyCommunity fund
supported by
administrated by
‘BRINGING COMMUNITIES TOGETHER’
The Gateshead Housing Company CommunityFund will make awards of £500 to £10,000 ofcash and 'in-kind' work to projects that:
■ Improve the lives of young people orolder residents
■ Are environmentally friendly■ Benefit a whole estate or neighbourhood.
Need funds for a community project?
To find out more log onto www.communityfoundation.org.uk, where you can downloadinformation and application forms. You can also: e-mail: [email protected]
Write to: Community Foundation, Cale Cross, 156 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon, Tyne NE1 6SU.
Tel: 0191 222 0945. Fax: 0191 230 0689.
Awardwinning
NFA 2009‘Best Community
Initiative’
page 5
Top marks for The Gateshead Housing Company
Sheltered scheme singing sensationsResidents of Broom and Conifer Close, Winlaton, have joined forces with Age Concern to sing for their supper.
The ‘Canny Bodies’ are a local singing group who meet every week for a meal and a sing-song in the sheltered schemes’ communal lounge.
The group, led by Betty Shepherdson, have already sang for Her Worship, The Mayor of Gateshead, the late Councillor Maureen Chaplin, and at the Masonic Hall, Gateshead, on St George’s Day.
Betty said: “We don’t take ourselves too seriously, but it’s great to be able to get together for a singalong.”
For further information contact Joyce Scott on 0191 433 6219.
The Gateshead Housing Company’s services are ‘excellent’ with ‘excellent prospects for improvement’, according to an independent report released by the Audit Commission.
For full details of the report visit www.gatesheadhousing.co.uk/inspection2009
New look for Milvain Close New door-entry systems and accessibility work was completed in March at over 40 flats at Milvain Close, Deckham.
The flats, which are occupied by people aged 60 and over, saw a range of Decent Homes improvements, including new doors, fires and kitchens.
For more information contact Carole Nicholson on 0191 433 5413.
The three star rating was awarded due to the company’s strong commitment to customer care, estate management and major improvement works.
Strengths in the report include:
• Accessible offices and customer friendly services and information
• More than 7,000 home improvements to a standard above that required by the government
• Effective working with partners to address anti-social behaviour
• Customer involvement and support for vulnerable people.
Older persons’ services in particular were recognised for:
• The dedication of sheltered housing estate officers
• The opportunities older people have to get involved
• Joined up work with Gateshead Council.
Yvonne Davies, Audit Commission Head of Housing (North), said: “The services
provided by The Gateshead Housing Company excel in a number of areas.
“Homes are being improved to a high standard, extra help is provided for vulnerable people, tenants are involved in developing services and offices provide excellent facilities for local people.”
Bill Fullen, Chief Executive of the housing company said: “I am delighted the Audit Commission has recognised the excellent quality of services our employees provide to thousands of people every day.
“Our message to customers is that we will carry on making even more improvements to ensure that local people have the standard of services and homes they truly deserve.”
To help the service improve, inspectors made a number of recommendations.
page 6
Happy birthday to us!The Sheltered Housing Management Team celebrated its first birthday recently having been part of the housing company’s remit since April 2008.
The team brought together housing expertise from across the company to focus on older persons’ services.
Let’s reflect on its achievements so far…
Julie McCartney, Principal Housing Services Manager, is delighted with the achievements the team has made so far.
She said: “It’s a great step forward for the company to have a team to focus on services for older people.
“The Audit Commission specifically recognised the team’s work following it’s 2008 inspection, which highlights how we have made real progress in developing housing and support services.”
• 54 drop-in sessions were held to allow residents to meet with sheltered scheme officers on a regular basis
• Estate tours follow these sessions so residents can highlight issues in their area
• Tailored home welcome visits have been introduced for new tenants to ensure they are comfortable in their surroundings and have access to any support needs. Of the 33 visits carried out, 15 referrals for additional support were made
• An Older Persons’ Service Improvement Group was established to work specifically on housing services
• Larger accommodation is being developed in Mulgrave Villas, town centre, and in Wardley, through Gateshead Council’s Older Persons’ Housing Strategy
• Sheltered schemes are being made more accessible in keeping with the Disability Discrimination Act
• here&now was launched – and this is thethird edition of the newspaper.
Older Persons’ Housing Manager is student of the yearThe Chartered Institute of Housing has awarded one of the housing company’s Sheltered Housing Management Team its ‘North East Regional Student of the Year’ award.
Michelle Cherrett, Older Persons’ Housing Manager, collected the award following her successful completion of the institute’s Postgraduate Diploma in Housing Policy.
Beating other housing students to the post, Michelle was presented her award by former contestant of the BBC’s hit show ‘The Apprentice’, Ruth Badger.
Michelle said: “I am honoured to have been recognised by the institute and am using the areas covered by my course in my day-to-day work to improve older persons’ services across the borough.”
Neil Bouch, Director of Housing Management, said: “The company strives to develop its workforce.
“Investing in our employees’ education provides greater insight to housing services, which benefits the people of Gateshead overall.”
Michelle Cherrett (centre) is presented her award by Ruth Badger and Steve Benson, President of CIH.
page 7
A new property downsizing scheme has been launched by Gateshead Council and the housing company.
The service asks existing council tenants to ask themselves if they are a ‘small fi sh in a big pond’ and have they thought about downsizing their home.
Tenants may consider the scheme if family members have moved out; they fi nd running their current home expensive; or they think a smaller home would be easier to manage.
Help, advice and fi nancial assistance is available to tenants who qualify for the scheme - up to £500 to help with removal costs, and up to £500 for decoration or improvements to the new property.
Current Gateshead Council tenants with a clear rent account, whose property is in a good condition, and whose home is generally in greater demand than the one they move to, can apply.
Jackie Armstrong, Lettings Manager, said: “We hope the
new downsizing scheme will help to make better use of housing stock and feed demand for certain property types in Gateshead.”
Gateshead Council agrees new property downsizing scheme
Older people discover joy of txtGateshead Older People’s Assembly is helping people to make the best use of their mobile phones.
The assembly organised a free training session for older people, with help from the Gateshead Youth Assembly, that offered help and advice on making the most of mobile phones.
Councillor Peter Mole MBE said: “Mobile phones offer a valuable lifeline to older people.
“Not only are they a great way to stay in touch, they are also a valuable way in summoning assistance in an emergency - if you’ve had a fall, for example.”
The Gateshead Older People’s Assembly is a voluntary organisation, which aims to support the empowerment of older people to lead fuller lives in their local community.
For further information call 0191 438 1721, e-mail [email protected] or log ontowww.gatesheadolderpeoplesassembly.co.uk
See the back page of here&now for further information.
New computer access is web-tasticSheltered residents will soon be just one click away from online shopping, social networking, e-mail and more with the installation of new internet facilities.
Access to computers will be made available at communal lounges throughout the borough this summer.
Once installed, Age Concern will be working with the housing company to offer training to residents over 50 to make the most of the internet.
The following schemes are scheduled to receive training so far:
• Conifer Close• Emmaville• Greenfi elds• Pleasant Place• Southwood Crescent• West Acres• Whinney Close.
Ask your sheltered scheme offi cer for further information.
50 to make the most of the internet.
The following schemes are scheduled to receive training so far:
• Southwood Crescent
Ask your sheltered scheme offi cer for further
page 8
Work has started to convert existing one-bed bungalows into two-bed properties in Wardley.
The programme will see 44 bungalows in Leam, Lingey, Moat and Morris Gardens, and Thorpe Avenue, converted into two-bed homes by using the space in the existing garden areas.
The development comes following consultation with residents that found that larger properties were preferred.
Bill and Hazel Pounder are looking forward to moving to a new two-bed bungalow.
Hazel said: “It’s always been cold in the winter so we are looking forward to it being lot warmer.”
Brian Richardson, Housing Manager at Leam Lane, said: “By converting these properties we are providing larger, more modern accommodation that meets the needs and aspirations of older tenants and future customers.”
Following the renovation, the
bungalows will be fully carpeted and decorated.
Homes will take around three months to convert, with the whole programme taking approximately one year in total to complete.
The company’s partner, Frank Haslam Milan (FHM) North East will carry out the work.
Bill and Hazel Pounder are looking forward to making the most of the extra space.
Bill said: “It will be nice when it is all done and we can enjoy a warm house for our 12 grandchildren to visit.”
Hilda Hand, 71, has lived in her bungalow for 12 years and in Wardley for over 40.
She said: “The choices we saw were all good.
“The new heating, doors and windows will make a difference – the bedroom is like Siberia!”
Her friend, Gladys Fuller, 76, has lived in Wardley for 14 years.
She said: “The choices were all lovely – it was a bonus to find out we get our kitchen designed too.”
New look for Wardley bungalows
What the people of Wardley said...
Tenants wanting further information on the proposed conversions should contact Kevin Fudge, Estate Officer, on 0191 433 5882 or e-mail [email protected]
page 9
Secure, supported,sheltered homes
Sheltered accommodation across Gateshead
Call 0191433 5345 today
www.gatesheadhousing.co.uk
GHCnews_adsx2 10/9/07 13:09 Page 2
page 10
It’s a communal makeoverThe housing company is in the process of selecting a contractor to provide new furniture and furnishings in over 40 sheltered communal lounges in Gateshead.
To complement improvements to homes, the Sheltered Housing Management Team has secured a £200,000 budget to replace the furniture in communal lounges.
Previously, furniture was replaced on individual need due to wear and tear, but now an allocated budget means all schemes will be updated over the next two years and will benefi t from a modern makeover.
Two furnishing contractors, The Furniture Resource Centre and PeelMount Furnishings,
were invited to the company to present their provision to a panel of local tenants.
Not only did the panel hear from each contractor, they have also helped to decide on the programme for replacing items and choosing which furnishings should go into each scheme.
Michelle Cherrett, Older Persons’ Housing Manager, said: “We want tenants in our sheltered schemes to feel relaxed and enjoy a comfortable living environment.
“This funding will help to bring communal lounges up to more modern standards, as seen across Gateshead’s homes and estates.”
The results of the consultation will be reported to the company’s Board in May - look out for the programme of works in the next issue of here&now.
‘Decent Homes’ director retires
Funding helps residents to sit back and relax
Peter Burchall, the housing company’s Director of Property and Technical Services has retired after helping to improve thousands of homes.
Peter, who retired with 37 years service with the housing company and Gateshead Council has managed the Decent Homes programme since its start.
Bill Fullen, Chief Executive, said: “Peter leaves a genuine legacy that has benefi ted thousands of local people.
“His tireless work to ensure people get the homes they deserve is well recognised by the whole company and our partners.”
Three new benches have been added to Wood Green estate, Bill Quay, for residents who have diffi culty
walking great distances.
Gateshead’s Neighbourhood Pride scheme worked with the Wood Green Residents’ Group to agree funding for the benches, and the three locations were decided by working with residents.
Three new benches have been added to Wood Green estate, Bill Quay, for residents who have diffi culty
walking great distances.
Michelle Cherrett (left) shows Ann Legg of Birtley Villas the new curtain options.
page 11
In the last issue of here&now, we told you about the housing company’s steps, together with Gateshead Council, towards achieving a national accreditation from the Centre of Sheltered Housing Studies (CSHS).
A working group has been set up to ensure the company is successful in the accreditation, and aims to:
• Provide tailored services to meet the needs of older people
• Provide seamless services for older people through collaborative working from the housing company and Gateshead Council
• Provide clear information that can be easily accessed
• Continue to modernise accommodation, communal lounges and older people’s services.
The voluntary accreditation confirms that the company meets 10 minimum standards on service delivery; policy and guidance; equality and diversity; rights and responsibilities; confidentiality and privacy; independence and empowerment; professional roles; collaboration and community development; trained and supported staff; and physical environment.
A submission will be made this autumn and the results will published in here&now.
Working towards higher quality services for older people
Charity raises buckets of cash at B&QHelp the Aged volunteers have helped to raise thousands of pounds at local B&Q stores.
Helpers stood with buckets at stores nationwide and raised an impressive £29,021.91 for the charity last year from shoppers’ donations.
There will be another opportunity to take part at your local B&Q store on Saturday, 6 and Sunday, 7 June.
For further information contact Claudine Masson on 020 7843 1580 or e-mail claudine.
Help the Aged is a charity that fights to free older people from poverty, isolation and neglect in the UK and overseas.
Rachel Collander-Brown and Anna Mitchell help to raise money for Help the Aged.
For further information contact Julie McCartney, Principal Housing Services Manager, on 0191 433 5304 or visit www.cshs.co.uk
Housing company on new gas registerThe Gateshead Housing Company and its contractors are now listed on the new ‘Gas Safe Register’, which has replaced CORGI as the gas safety body.
From 1 April, CORGI gas registration is no longer valid, and residents must always use a Gas Safe registered engineer for all gas work at home.
All Gas Safe registered engineers carry a Gas Safe Register ID card with their own unique licence number.
The housing company always recommends residents check identity cards of anyone visiting their home.
To arrange a free gas service, call 0191 433 5338, 0191 433 5341, 0191 433 5346 or e-mail [email protected]
page 12
ServiceImprovement Group hasits saySince the last issue of here&now, the Older Persons’ Service Improvement Group (SIG) has discussed different housing company issues – with positive outcomes…
What we did:
• New service standards have been introduced and will be reported back to customers
• We will write to you within three working days upon receipt of your enquiry to let you know if you are eligible for the scheme
• You will be contacted within 14 days to arrange an appointment for the task to be completed.
What we did:
• Our Decent Homes Team is developing this option for anyone living in sheltered accommodation who is due to receive bathroom refurbishments.
What we did:
• The housing company’s Finance Team agreed in April that the Sheltered Housing Management Team can review how funds are allocated.
What we did:
• We will visit schemes that have already had furniture replaced to see what is suitable
• We have hosted presentations from two potential suppliers with tenants – see page 9.
What we did:
• New service standards have
What we did:
• Our Decent Homes Team is developing this option for
What we did:
• The housing company’s
What we did:
• We will visit schemes that have
There should bemore contact with
members of thescheme.
Tenants living insheltered accommodation should have the choice of a
shower or bath duringDecent Homes work.
The amount of budgetfor communal area improve-ments should be dependent
on how many tenants live within the scheme.
What sort offurniture will be
replaced, when and what will it be like?
Small Task Team
Tenant choices for Decent Homes work
Tenant-led budgetFurniture replacement scheme
page 13
What we did:
• The look and facilities in communal lounges will be improved over the next two years, and promoted across the borough.
What we did:
• SIG members completed questionnaires to gauge views on the proposed changes
• Questionnaire results have been reported to Gateshead Council’s Cabinet for approval.
What we did:
• SIG members completed What we did:
• Together with the SIG, we will introduce a policy that refl ects the different types of sheltered schemes and issues concerning storage.
What we did:
• Together with the SIG, we
Scooters can playa big part in older people’s
lives in today’s society – does the housing company
have a policy onstorage?
What we did:
• A new satisfaction survey has been introduced
• Survey results will be fed-back to the SIG, reported online and in here&now.
What we did:
• A new satisfaction survey has
I think exit surveysshould be reported back to the SIG annually, and they should be completed by
Sheltered EstateOffi cers.
What we did:
• SIG members completed a questionnaire that found that work should be prioritised as:
1. Most requests from residents
2. By area/neighbourhood
3. Residents with the greatest medical need; type of sheltered scheme; in time with Decent Homes work
4. Lowest cost.
What we did:What we did:
• SIG members completed a • SIG members completed a
How is workbeing prioritised?
If shelteredschemes are opened up to the wider community,
should non-residents pay on the door or have a membership card? Could members pay a small fee
and have access tolounges across the
borough?
How will Gateshead Council’s review of its lettings policy affect
older customers?
For further information on joining your SIG, call Joanne Minikin on 0191 433 5356 or e-mail [email protected]
Communal lounges
HomeChoice
Exit interviewsDisability Discrimination Act (DDA) refurbishment
Scooter policy
page 14
Joyce ScottSheltered Housing Estate Offi cer for the West of Gateshead
8.20am - I start my day by popping into our head offi ce, Keelman House, to pick up a projector for an Annual Scheme Meeting at William Morris Road, Highfi eld this afternoon.
I then drive to Blaydon housing offi ce where I am based and check my calendar for the day.
I read my e-mails and respond accordingly, before setting off for my fi rst appointment.
11am - I arrive at my fi rst appointment at The Lonnen, Crookhill to carry out a ‘New Home Visit’, to check how our new tenant is settling in.
During this visit I make sure the tenant has been offered all of the support services available to them; tell them about their rent account; provide information on their new tenancy; and discuss any additional needs they may have.
11.30am - Once I am happy that the tenant is settling in, I drive on to my next appointment – a ‘Home Viewing’ with a potential new tenant in Woodlands Road, Highfi eld.
I arrive at the property, let myself in and open all the doors and blinds, and pick up the post.When the applicant arrives with their family, I introduce them to the sheltered scheme offi cer, and show them around the building highlighting all of the services available.The sheltered scheme offi cer then explains about Care Call facilities and up and coming events in the communal hall.
As the applicant is happy with the property, I arrange a suitable time for them to sign up for their new home.12.45pm - Back to Blaydon for a short lunch break.1.15pm - After lunch, I gather all of the equipment I need for this afternoon’s meeting and drive to the communal hall.I set up the projector to carry out my presentation, which informs residents about what the Sheltered Housing Management Team achieved last year, and its plans for the year ahead. After the presentation, I answer residents’ questions and help them to fi ll out surveys on sheltered housing services.3.15pm - I drive back to Blaydon, grab a much needed cup of coffee, and check my e-mails from the day.After dealing with any paperwork it’s time for home – after a typically busy but enjoyable day.
Are there any ‘days in the life’ that you’d like to follow? Call Joanne Minikin on 0191 433 5356 with your suggestions.
Sheltered housing employees collect EAC certifi cate
Stroke: Act F.A.S.T.
Members of the Sheltered Housing Management Team recently collected the Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) Quality of Information mark.
The EAC mark provides and celebrates all forms of sheltered housing, and ensures older people have access to accurate information.
Visit www.fi rststopcareadvice.org.uk for information on the EAC and other older persons’ services.
The NHS has launched a new campaign to highlight the warning signs that someone is having a stroke.
The ‘Act F.A.S.T.’ promotion aims to educate people on the prompt action that needs to be taken to reduce the risk of death and disability, including:
• Facial weakness – can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
• Arm weakness – can the person raise both arms?
• Speech problems – can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
• Time to call 999 for an ambulance if you spot any of these signs.
For further information call0191 487 9988 or visitwww.nhs.uk/actfast
Joyce ScottSheltered Housing Estate Offi cer for the West of Gateshead
8.20am - I start my day by popping
A day inthe life of...
page 15
National praise for home care service
Foul play
£1m housing boost for high-rise tenants
Readers of here&now have raised concerns about dog fouling in some areas of Gateshead.
Gateshead Council has strict policies for dog owners who do not remove faeces from public areas.
Owners will face a £50 fixed fine if their dog is seen fouling and the faeces are not immediately removed, even if they are not present at the time.
And if the fine is not paid within 14 days, residents may be prosecuted, and if found guilty, magistrates can allocate a £1,000 fine, plus costs, and this will be placed on record.
Contact Dog Warden Services at Gateshead Council on 0191 433 3131 or e-mail [email protected] for further information.
Residents at a high-rise block near Gateshead town centre are set to receive over £1m of home improvements over the coming year.
Bensham Court, which overlooks the Tyne Valley, is getting ‘Decent Homes’ work as part of The Gateshead Housing Company’s efforts to give people good quality homes to live in.
Residents will see new kitchens, bathrooms, electrical and heating systems at the block, which is only rented out to over 40s.
Further work will see improvements to the grassed areas around the block, which is
set between the town centre and Team Valley.
Councillor Kevin Dodds, one of three councillors in the area, said: “The £1m of work will make a major difference to the lives of everyone who lives in Bensham Court.”
John Monaghan, The Gateshead Housing Company’s Senior Tenant Liaison Manager in central Gateshead said: “We have already improved thousands of homes, with less than one in six now needing any improvement works.”
Work is due to start in June, with improvements to the 126 flats set to be completed by October 2009.
Residents wanting to find out more about Decent Homes work in central Gateshead should call 0191 433 5410 or log onto www.gatesheadhousing.co.uk/decenthomes
Gateshead’s Domiciliary Care Service for the elderly has been praised by England’s agency responsible for inspecting standards of social care.
The Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) has awarded Gateshead Council a maximum three star rating after an inspection of its home care services in the borough.
The service was judged on five areas of work, scoring excellent in ‘user-focused services’; ‘personal care’; and ‘managers and staff’, and good in ‘protection’; and ‘organisation and running of the business’.
The inspectors also spoke to a
number of people who currently receive domiciliary care, and published their comments in their report - “Without them I would not be able to carry on looking after my partner the way I do,” one said; and another described domiciliary care staff as: “More like friends than carers.”
Tony Hegarty, Head of Adult Social Care for Gateshead Council, said: “To have those compliments endorsed by the UK’s national inspection agency shows what a skilled and committed workforce we have.”
For further details on accessing the service contact 0191 433 8800, 0191 433 8030 or 0191 433 8300.
Left to right, John Monaghan of the housing company, contractor Nicola Waddle, Michelle Cherrett, Older Persons’ Housing Manager, Councillor Kevin Dodds and Stewart Barraclough, site manager.
page 16
The following information is applicable to people aged 60 and over living in England and Wales, and looks at the various state benefi ts you may be able to apply for.
The State Retirement Pension
This pension is paid to people who have made enough contributions into the National Insurance scheme during their working lives.
If you qualify‚ you should receive a forecast and details of how to claim a few months before you reach retirement age.
Pension Credit
This benefi t can top up the income of people aged 60 and over.
It is means-tested so your existing income and savings are taken into account.
Pension Credit has two parts:
• The Guarantee Credit can top your income up to a minimum amount set by the government if it is currently below that level
• The Savings Credit provides extra money for people aged 65 and over who already have some savings or income from private or personal pensions.
For both of these services contact The Pension Service on 0845 6060 265 or visitwww.thepensionservice.gov.uk
Benefits-are you entitled?
It can be hard to meet household bills, care costs and otherexpenses as you get older, but are you sure you’re making the
most of your benefi t entitlement?
page 17
Housing Benefit
This is a means-tested benefit paid to cover rent costs for tenants in rented accommodation.
Your income and savings will be looked at when you apply.
If you qualify for Pension Credit Guarantee Credit you will usually receive full Housing Benefit but there are exceptions‚ for example if an adult son or daughter lives with you.
Even if you do not qualify for full Housing Benefit to cover all your rent you may be able to claim for part of your rent.
Contact Gateshead Council on 0191 433 3000 for further information.
Council Tax Benefit
This is a means-tested benefit that meets the cost of this tax.
If you qualify for Pension Credit Guarantee Credit you will usually receive full Council Tax Benefit but‚ as with Housing Benefit‚ there are exceptions.
If you do not qualify for the full benefit‚ you may be able to get some help; and if you do not qualify for the benefit at all‚ you may be able to get a discount on your Council Tax if‚ for example‚ you live alone.
Contact Gateshead Council on 0191 433 3000 for further information.
Attendance Allowance
This benefit is paid to people with personal care needs.
This means needing help with everyday tasks such as getting dressed‚ bathing‚ going to the toilet and moving round the house. Help with housework does not count.
Having a particular medical condition does not mean that you qualify for the benefit‚ it is the care needs arising from your condition that matter.
You do not have to be receiving care from a professional carer to qualify; you can claim the benefit if your family care for you or even if you do not currently receive any care but do need it.
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. If you are awarded Attendance Allowance‚ your other benefits may increase.
Attendance Allowance is only available for people aged 65 and over‚ but there is a similar benefit called Disability Living Allowance for younger people.
Contact Gateshead Council on 0191 433 3000 for further information or the Benefit Enquiry Line on 0800 88 22 00.
Winter Fuel Payments
You may think that winter is far behind us, but just so you’re prepared, most people aged 60 and over receive a Winter Fuel Payment to help meet the costs of keeping their homes warm during the colder months.
The level of your payment will depend on who lives with you.
People who receive Pension Credit may get extra Cold Weather Payments when the weather is particularly severe.
For further information contact the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline on 0845 9 15 15 15.
Other expenses
You may be able to get a grant from the Social Fund to cover unexpected expenses that you cannot meet from your weekly income‚ for example the cost of a new cooker or washing machine.
This fund is means-tested and offers a number of grants for different circumstances; some that have to be repaid and some that do not.
Contact Age Concern Gateshead for further information on the Social Fund or any of the above benefits on 0191 477 3559, or e-mail [email protected]
See page 20 for free, confidential advice about rent arrears.
Source: www.thepensionservice.gov.uk (Details correct at time of print.)
page 18
Councillor Bob Goldsworthy presents Jean Skelton with the keys to her ‘new’ home with Victoria Carr of FHM (left) and Carole Nicholson of the company’s Decent Homes Team.
Worcester Green improvements complete
Your estate, your views
Older residents in Gateshead town centre are now sitting back to enjoy the benefits of their newly refurbished homes.
Over 50 homes in Worcester Green have had a range of improvements to their homes including new doors, windows, kitchens and bathrooms.
The improvements, worth almost £600,000, came with a double bonus as residents got the chance to use gas appliances in their homes for the first time.
Residents now have access to gas central heating, which is more
economical than using electric heating, meaning it can help the company’s customers tackle fuel poverty.
Jean Skelton, 80, who has lived all of her life in Gateshead, is delighted with her ‘new’ home.
She said: “The improvements are marvellous and the new doors and windows make the house so much warmer.”
The company worked with Turriff and Community Energy Solutions (CES) to get the gas supplies installed.
If you can’t make an estate tour - see pages 24 and 25 - you can still give us your views.
Simply fill in the form below and return it to us - no stamp is needed.
Important: You don’t have to give us your name and address - but it will help us to give you feedback if you do.
You must tell us the estate you live on though, to help us look at the issue.
Your name:
Address:
Tel:
E-mail:
Or
The estate I live on is:
I think my estate is:
What is the most important issue you think the company should tackle on your estate?
(Please just tick one - the one you think is most important)
Untidy gardens Youth disorder Cleaning/grounds maintenance Better lighting Community facilities Other (please specify)
Please give this to any of our employees, drop into your housing office of post to us (no stamp is needed) to:The Gateshead Housing Company, FREEPOST NAT16761, Gateshead, NE8 3ZY.
!
page 19
The sessions provided attendees with information on:
• The implementation of the Sheltered Housing Management Team
• How the company has improved services in 2008/09
• Satisfaction levels with current services
• How customers can get involved in shaping future services
• Information on improvements to your home and estate
• The Grounds Maintenance Service Level Agreement
• What’s planned for 2009/10.
Michelle Cherrett, Older Persons’ Housing Manager, said: “It was great to reflect over the last year’s achievements with residents and tell them about what we have planned for the year ahead.”
The housing company has held its annual scheme meetings at sheltered housing venues across the borough.
2009/10 sheltered housing priorities set out
If you were unable to attend any of the meetings but would like details of the discussion, contact Joanne Minikin on 0191 433 5356 or e-mail [email protected]
Housing company does the doubleIt’s double delight at the housing company with the recent announcement that it has won two prestigious national awards.
The company won the Chartered Institute of Personal Development’s (CIPD) 2009 ‘Equality and Diversity in the Workplace’ award, and its Community Fund achieved ‘Best community initiative’ from the National Federation of ALMOs.
The company’s equality and diversity policies took the top spot from runners-up Proctor and Gamble and Tyneside Cyrenians Ltd, and Community Fund saw off challenges from London-based CityWest Homes and Wolverhampton Homes.
Speaking about the CIPD win, the housing company’s Assistant Chief Executive, Elaine Snaith, said: “We’re incredibly happy that our work to embed equality and diversity in our company’s ethos has been recognised.
“The housing company will continue to encourage under-represented groups to get involved in our work, so we can be a truly representative company and reflect the community we serve.”
Bill Fullen, Chief Executive of the housing company, collected the NFA award on behalf of the company and its partners.
He said: “Our Community Fund allows hard working groups and organisations in Gateshead to make a real difference to
local people’s lives and we are delighted that the fund has been recognised at such a high level.”
See page 4 for details of the fund.
International designer Wayne Hemmingway (right) presents Bill Fullen with NFA award.
(Left to right): Tony Leader, Liz Reay (judge), Rachel Embleton (The Gateshead Housing Company) and Tony Weightman.
page 20
Rent arrears -don’t let it end in tears
Paying rent should alwaysbe top of your shopping list
• Birtley, Springwell, Wrekenton, Leam Lane, Low Fell, Old Fold or Felling -call 0191 433 5811 or e-mail [email protected]
• Town centre, Sheriff Hill, Dunston, Whickham or Teams -call 0191 433 2685 or e-mail [email protected]
• Blaydon, Ryton and Highfield - call 0191 433 6235 ore-mail [email protected]
• Former tenants - 0191 433 5363 or 0191 433 5364 ore-mail [email protected]
For free, confidential advice about rent arrears call:
•Our out-of-hours service can also answer rent queries up to 7pmMonday to Friday or until noon on Saturdays. Just call the numbersabove and you will be connected to the advice and informationteam
•You can pay at any PayPoint outlet or Post Officeusing your rent payment card
•You can call 0845 149 0002 using your debit orcredit card 24-hours a day
•Why not sign up for Direct Debit? It’s safe, easyand quick - ask at your housing office for a form
•You can pay online or get a balance atwww.gatesheadhousing.co.uk/payments
page 21
Older residents in the town centre are benefiting from over £1m of home improvements.
Mulgrave Villas, is set to be transformed with a range of internal Decent Homes work and external improvements.
Works that began in February include converting 46 bedsits into two-bed flats, with new kitchens, bathrooms, heating systems and redecoration.
Other one-bed flats will also receive improvements, with residents being offered temporary accommodation and help whilst work is being carried out.
The internal works, which are scheduled to be complete by October, will be followed by a range of external improvements
including landscaping, new parking facilities and better access for residents with disabilities.
Councillor Peter Mole MBE was on hand recently to show tenants Ellen Elsdon, 80, and Tom Miley, 60, plans for the work.
He said: “Once completed, Mulgrave Villas will offer a range of safe, modern and well equipped homes for the borough’s older residents.”
Tom Miley said: “My family and I are very excited about the improvements. We won’t recognise the place after.”
Major improvements to benefit older residents
It’s your budget - how would you spend it?
Investing in new technology
Tenants living in sheltered schemes have access to a their own budget and have an input on how it is spent.
The annual funding must benefit the community within the scheme, and last year money was used towards:
• Coach trips
• Hand dryers in communal toilets
• Parasols and planters for communal gardens
• A pool table.
To make the most of your budget, contact your sheltered scheme officer.
The housing company is making major investments over the next five years to update sheltered accommodation schemes with the latest telecare technology.
Over £200,000 will be spent installing a range of facilities including a new call system CCTV, communicall, falls detectors, flood sensors and sensory sensors, which detect movement.
Roberto D’emidio, Senior Health and Safety Advisor, said: “The new fully integrated systems offer 24-hour support to residents and will help to maximise their independence.”
Sheltered scheme officers will be trained on the new facilities and will advise tenants on how where they are applicable.
For further information contact Joanne Minikin on 0191 433 5356 or e-mail [email protected]
Michelle Cherrett, Older Persons’ Housing Manager, left, shows plans for the Mulgrave Villas improvements to resident Tom Miley, Councillor Peter Mole MBE and resident, Ellen Elsdon.
page 22
Are you sitting comfortably?Residents of Harrison Court and Lyndholme are keeping fit – from the comfort of their own chair.
Sheltered Scheme Officer, Carol O’Donnell, has been teaching residents the importance of staying active with her chair-based exercise sessions.
Residents get together in communal lounges every week for a gentle work out for their joints, sometimes using exercise bands.
Carol said: “Not only do our sessions keep people active in a non-strenuous way, they are also good socially – we always have a well deserved cup of tea and a chat afterwards!”
Ask your sheltered scheme officer about sessions in your area.
Keeping in touch with our tenants
Region-wide swap shopThe Gateshead Housing Company has teamed up with housing companies across the region to give customers more choice when thinking about moving home.
HomeXchange Tyne and Wear will bring together the mutual exchange services of the housing company, gentoo Sunderland, North Tyneside Homes, South Tyneside Homes and Your Homes Newcastle.
A website and listings service, hoped to be launched this summer, will advertise homes to thousands of tenants from north of the River Tyne to south of the River Wear.
Customers currently on the HomeSwap scheme needn’t worry as their details will automatically move to the new scheme.
For further information contact the HomeChoice Team on0191 433 5345 or ask at your nearest housing office.
Lyndholme residents keep fit in communal lounge.
We have visited over 1,500 tenants aged over 75 this year, who live alone in homes not covered by sheltered scheme services.
‘Contact Visits’ were developed with customer involvement and have been a great opportunity to talk to older tenants to ensure they receive appropriate housing and support services.
Estate Officers have helped 150 tenants get services such as shopping, cleaning, gardening, housing options and benefits advice.
The visits have also enabled us to seek tenants’ views on service improvements, and discuss ways to get involved, including our ‘Moving Forward’ training programme.
Many compliments about the new service have been received
from tenants and their families, including:
• “I really appreciate you calling to see how I am. What a nice thing to do” - a central Gateshead tenant.
• “I’m glad you called as it makes me feel like someone cares” - an inner west tenant.
The success of the visits has led to an expansion of the scheme. This year we’ll be aim to do around 2,000 visits, across a range of tenants of all ages who may need support.
But please be wary of imposters: all housing company employees will carry official identification on them, so always ask to see a visitor’s ID badge - remember “No ID? No way!”
For further information on the Contact Visits please contact your nearest housing office.
page 23
There’s nothing better than awell-kept garden to brighten thelook of an estate.
Rae Beckwith, our resident 'green-fingered' expert, is on hand withsome handy tips to make yourgarden bloomin’ marvellous thissummer.
And remember, the housing companyhas a gardening scheme for residentswho can’t manage their gardenthemselves.
Members benefit from regularvisits to carry out services like grasscutting, hedge trimming, pruningand more.
Although places for 2009/10 are nowtaken, you can still join the waitinglist – call 0191 433 5371 for moreinformation.
Here are Rae's top four summergardening tips:
Rae Beckwith, The Gateshead Housing Company’s gardening expert.
1 2
3 4
Summer is a great time to build a newflowerbed. Work out what space you haveavailable and mark off with rope. Cut the turf toyour chosen shape. Ensure that you give plantsenough space, to make the flowerbed easier tomaintain in the future.
If you have been growing pansies you can nowcollect seeds, and if you favour a certain colour,select the best and only use these to replant. Youcan begin to control the colours that grow inyour garden, although bees will naturally crosspollinate, so there will be some variation inflowers.
If you’re thinking of adding a feature ornament toyour garden, you must ensure that you prepare thearea correctly. Dig out the turf to the requiredshape, and place a piece of plastic membrane –available from most DIY stores – cut to the sameshape into the hole. This will stop weeds fromcoming through. Ensure that you leave an adequatesection without turf around the ornament, to makeit easier and safer when mowing the grass.
At this time of year, seed pods should be ripe forthe picking on a number of plants. Pick thesebuds and plant in a new location. After twoyears, you’ll get a fully flowering plant. If youremember to pick seed pods at this time of yearwhen they are ripe, you’ll get free plants, andbegin to build a sustainable garden.
Summer-thing different for your garden
page 24
Monthly
drop-in dates
Your chance to speak to your sheltered housing estate officer
South
Barley Mow
Cheshire Avenue
11 June 2009 10am-11am
Birtley
Birtley Villas
24 June 2009 10am-11am
25 February 2009 1pm-2pm
Croftside
6 July 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Harrison Court
24 June 2009 2pm-3pm
Kateregina
20 July 2009 2pm-3pm
Lansbury Close
15 July 2009 10am-11am
Lansbury Drive
13 July 2009 10am-11am
Central
Bensham
Bensham Court
10 June 2009 10.30am-11.30am
Mulgrave Villas
23 July 2009 2.30pm-3.30pm
Deckham
Milvain Close
28 July 2009 2.30pm-3.30pm
To find out more about any of the meetings contact Christine Potts on 0191 433 8971.
Pleasant Place
26 June 2009 10am-11am
Low Fell
Lyndholme
1 July 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Wrekenton
Easington Avenue
23 June 2009 2pm-3pm
East
Bill Quay
Wood Green
23 June 2009 10am-11am
Felling
Rectory Road
3 June 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Pelaw
McErlane Square
29 June 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Wardley
Joyce Close
8 July 2009 10am-11am
Windy Nook
Kays Cottages
17 July 2009 9.30am-10.30am
To find out more about any of the meetings contact Catherine Murphy on 0191 433 6123.
If you want to find out more about developments in your area or have your say on services that affect your estate, why not come along to one of our drop-in sessions?
To find about more about any of the meetings contact Catherine Murphy on 0191 433 6123.
page 25
Inner West
Dunston
West Park
19 June 2009 10.30am-11.30am
Swalwell
Derwentside
9 June 2009 10.30am-11.30am
Sunniside
Sun Hill
18 June 2009 10.30am-11.30am
Teams
Victoria House
5 June 2009 2.30pm-3.30pm
Yetholm Road
18 June 2009 2pm-3pm
Whickham
Rectory Hall
3 June 2009 10.30am-11.30am
To find out more about any of the meetings contact Christine Potts on 0191 433 8971.
West
Chopwell
Boltons Bungalows
21 July 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Crookhill
The Lonnen
10 June 2009 1.30pm-2.30pm
Highfield
Burnside Road
15 June 2009 1.30pm-2.30pm
William Morris Avenue
11 June 2009 1.30pm-2.30pm
Rowlands Gill
South Sherburn
17 June 2009 1.30pm-2.30pm
Southwood Crescent
16 July 2009 1.30pm-2.30pm
Ryton
Emmaville
29 June 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Greenfields
22 June 2009 1.30pm-2.30pm
Winlaton
Broom and Conifer Close
3 July 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Crocus Close
27 July 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Denton View
23 June 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Winlaton (continued)
Mosspool 30 June 2009 9.30am-10.30am
Rydal Crescent 22 July 2009 1.30pm-2.30pm
Whinney Close 23 July 2009 1.30pm-2.30pm
To find out more about any of the meetings contact Joyce Scott on 0191 433 6219.
Hole-in-the-Wall
East Lea
14 July 2009 10.30am-11.30am
South Lea
16 July 2009 10.30am-11.30am
West Acres
21 July 2009 2.30pm-3.30pm
To find out more about any of the meetings contact Christine Potts on 0191 433 8971.
Join your Estate TourEach drop-in session will be followed by a short Estate Tour so you can give your
views on how the company could improve your local environment.Contact your sheltered housing estate officer for further information.
page 26
Moving Forward Free customer training coursesMay 2009 to March 2010 For more information see our Moving Forward guide or contactLouise Taylor, Helen Watson or Lisa Wilkinson on:• Tel: 0191 433 5357 • Fax: 0191 433 5354• E-mail: [email protected]• Text: ‘INVOLVE’ to 0762 480 4167 • Minicom: 0191 433 5349Please note: places are available on a fi rst come, fi rst served basis.
page 27
Across7 These Tours allow residents to
highlight issues in their area (6)
8 Gateshead Older People’s Assembly is helping people to make the best use of their ____ phones (6)
10 Mental torment (7)
11 Gateshead’s Domiciliary Care Service for the elderly has been awarded this number of stars (5)
12 Golf pegs (4)
13 Highest-value ball in snooker (5)
17 Name of Bart Simpson’s dad (5)
18 White Greek cheese (4)
22 See 24 Across
23 Intelligent person - like Daphne Fowler or Judith Keppel (7)
24 And 22 Across. This work is part of The Gateshead Housing Company’s efforts to give people good quality accommodation (6,5)
25 They catch criminals and enforce the law (6)
Down 1 Gateshead Council ______ can
now consider taking part in a property downsizing scheme (7)
2 Move unsteadily (7)
3 Room directly below the roof of a building (5)
4 These visits enable tenants to give their views on service improvements (7)
5 Daily record of events (5)
6 Disease involving a high temperature and shivering (5)
9 And 14 Down. This Management Team celebrated its fi rst birthday recently (9,7)
14 See 9 Down
15 Older people should make sure they make the most of their ______ entitlement (7)
16 Work has started here to convert one-bed bungalows into two-bed properties (7)
19 Garden buildings (5)
20 Sharp blow... from a fi shing boat? (5)
21 Ice-house (5)
In this issue of here&now we are giving four lucky readers the chance to win £25 of shopping vouchers by correctly completing and returning the crossword opposite.
You will fi nd some of the answers in this newspaper, while others may ask you to delve a little deeper for the answers.
Simply complete the crossword and return to the freepost address below – no stamp is needed:
Communications Team,Freepost Plus RRZG-CLYL-XKRU,The Gateshead Housing Company, Keelman House,Fifth Avenue Business Park,Fifth Avenue,Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0XA.
Deadline for entries is Tuesday,30 June 2009 – and good luck!
Name:
Address:
Postcode:
Tel:
Terms and conditions1. Only one entry per household.2. The free prize draw will take place on Wednesday,
1 July 2009.3. Four winners will be selected at random from
entries received by the closing date and notifi ed in writing within 14 days. The fi rst four names drawn at random will receive one of the indicated prizes (all prizes must be accepted as offered).
4. The judge’s decision is fi nal and correspondence will not be entered into.
5. The prize draw is open to UK residents aged 18 and over, except employees of The Gateshead Housing Company, their families or any other company associated with these terms.
6. By entering the free prize draw you are agreeing to your name being used for publicity purposes.
7. Damaged, incomplete or illegible entries will not be accepted. No responsibility is accepted for entries lost or damaged in the post. Proof of posting is not proof of delivery.
8. The promoter is The Gateshead Housing Company, Keelman House, Fifth Avenue Business Park, Fifth Avenue, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0XA.
play to win
!
Small fish in a big pond?
Gateshead Council has approved a new scheme to help tenants in larger properties to downsize their home.
Some assistance may be available to tenants who would consider downsizing if:
• Familymembershavemovedout
• Runningthepropertyisexpensive
• Theythinkasmallerhomewouldbeeasiertomanage.
Help, advice and financial assistance will be available to support the move.
Itishopedthatbyhelpingtenantstofindnewhomestosuittheirchangingneeds,itwillreleaselargerfamilyhomesforthosewhoneedthem.
That sounds like a good idea. What do I get in return?Anofficerwillhelpyoutofindahomeandsupportyouthroughouttheprocessofmoving,aswellasarrangingfinancialassistanceofupto£1,000.
£1,000? How can this be spent?Upto£500canbeusedtowardsmovingcosts,andtherestfordecorationorhomeimprovementstoyournewproperty.
Homeimprovementscanbethingslikecarpets,decorationmaterialsorlabour-VATregisteredcompaniesmustbeused.
Helpandsupportwillalsobeavailablethroughoutthemovingprocess.
Are there any restrictions on property types?Ifyouwouldliketoreleaseyourhomeitmustgenerallybeingreaterdemandthanthepropertyyoumoveto.
Pleasenote,two-bedbungalowsareinhighdemandanditisunlikelythatyouwouldbeabletotransfertooneoftheseproperties.
How will I know which homes are available?SomepropertieswillbeadvertisedinHomeChoicewithpreferencetoexistingtenantswhoreleasetheirhomeifitisingreaterdemandthantheonetheyarebiddingfor.
Theseadvertswillclearlystate,‘PreferencegiventoGatesheadCounciltenantsdownsizingfromhighdemandhomes’.
IfyoudonotseeahomeadvertisedthatyouwantbutyouarelookingforasmallerpropertypleasecallHomeChoice on01914335345.
Pleasenote,youwillneedtobeanexistingGatesheadCounciltenant,haveaclearrentaccountandyourhomemustbeingoodcondition.
How can I find out more?ForfurtherinformationdonothesitatetocontactyourhousingofficeorcallHomeChoiceon01914335345.
Help for tenants looking to downsize their home
Under Occupation GHCnews ad.indd 1 3/3/09 12:39:09
