April 2015
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JOHN’S BRIEFING PARA TRIATHLON CLIMBING KILIMANJARO HOLIDAY IDEAS 2015 AND MUCH MORE!
John’s Briefing Board Meeting:
REMEMBER EBuzz is put together following John’s briefings every other month. This is your newsletter and it would be great to hear some of your stories! If you have anything you want to share, please get in touch with Louise Davies via InHouse, 01495 761104 or email: louise.davies@ monmouthshirehousing.co.uk We look forward to hearing from you and hope you enjoy this edition. 2
transfer up to 5 members of staff into an implementation team The Board Meeting was held on 25th March 2015, the March Board for 18 months to implement the system, with some excellent meeting is vital in developing opportunities for employees. and agreeing the Budget and Due to CIVICA being new and Corporate Plan for 2015/2016. MHA being involved in the early implementation it is proving IT Strategy: excellent Value for Money. No The Board have approved the matter what, the implementation purchase of a new computer of a new system will throw up system called CIVICA; it many challenges before we realise will replace the repairs and the opportunities so we need maintenance and housing everyone to take a long term view management system as one joint and show patience and resilience system. One of the key attributes during the implementation will be that the new system will period. be overlaid with a Customer Relations Management System. Annual Budget: This is a key improvement to help For the first time since the MHA manage its contacts with organisation began, 7 years ago, tenants and other stakeholders. the budget suggests there will It will allow us to understand be a £300K - £400K cash surplus why they contact us and put the next year. This is a massive turning information in one place rather point for the MHA Group; the cash than two which is currently the surplus is also reflected in the case. This will hopefully allow us above inflation pay award. to give everyone a better service as we can anticipate their needs External Audit: better going forward. Initially the Housing Management System and John explained the difference Customer Response Management between internal and external System will be implemented, and audit – internal audit looks at the processes, procedures and the then the Maintenance/ Repairs risks associated whereas external system. The system is as future audit is more about the finances. proof as possible and can utilise The external auditors look in the web once you are in an area detail at the finances and the that has wi-fi. CIVICA will also detailed procedures for invoices enable our tenants to engage and purchases. MHA received a more effectively as the new good audit report which gives system will allow them to log into the system and see their rent the employees, the board and the regulator confidence in the account and whether or not a repair has been registered against business. Following a tender process Mazars have been their property for example. It is appointed for a further 3 years. anticipated that we will have to
Regulatory Outcome 10:
Capsel:
Regulatory Outcome 10 looks to ensure ‘we provide fair and efficient services for owners’ – the outcome looks at the MHA interaction with the leaseholders. Currently we have 260 leaseholders which has decreased due to MHA purchasing some properties from the leaseholders. Engagement with the leaseholder can be difficult unless work is carried out on their properties especially blocks of properties and there is a cost involved. It is expected that MHA will need to carry out some extensive and expensive works to blocks containing leaseholders in the coming years and this may well impact on our relationship with them.
Capsel has a turnover in excess of £400k for this year with a projected income of over £2.3m next year; a large proportion of that income will be due to Bowen Court house sales. The Waste Management Service will be operating from 8th April 2015 and John will be visiting potential customers from other Housing Associations in the coming months. Capsel Lettings is operating with 17 properties in its portfolio to date. The new Lettings manager/Negotiator is currently looking to take on additional properties with the possibility of cross selling our repair and maintenance service to them. CAPSEL has appointed a Gas Engineer to service heating in private properties but also to do work in MHA properties as required. John explained the DLO is part of MHA which operates under a charitable status therefore they can’t do work for a profit unlike Capsel which is a trading subsidiary and carries out work for a profit. Capsel allows profits to be gift aided to the MHA Group and hence helps MHA realise the Corporate Objectives.
Corporate Plan: John explained the Board have approved the Corporate plan for the next 5 years. The plan looks at a number of key points including ensuring our properties and area is a brilliant place to live, MHA is a great landlord, to improve the quality of people’s lives though support, employment, building aspirations and looking at the environmental impact. Crucially the objectives seek to raise tenant aspirations and help them realise their ambitions. The plan indicates increasing MHA Group workforce to 270 people in 5 years, primarily these will be through Capsel which must include employing local people and MHA tenants. The Corporate plan highlights challenges going forward although we have some initiatives already in place.
Equality and Diversity Policy: Currently there aren’t any changes to legislation although some are expected later in the year, once these are published the MHA policy will be updated – this was approved by Board.
Environmental Accrediation Update: The accreditation ISO 14001 has been achieved with some areas for improvement. John highlighted this a huge achievement and a lot of work has been carried out to achieve the accreditation. Well done to all involved especially Sue Kidd and her team.
Qtr 3 Performance Report: Overall performance is good with two areas being flagged for concern – the sickness rates and the percentage of rent collected, year to date. The sickness rate is currently around 5% which is high in comparison to previous years, especially short term sickness and will be addressed. All managers have been on sickness policy refresher training courses; being off work sick increases colleague’s workloads, effects team moral and efficiency.
Staff Survey: At the next briefing the staff survey will be presented in more detail to include our strength, weaknesses, positive and negative comments. MHA is now in the Top 100 Not for Profit Organisations in the country, number 81, which is exemplar. There is still work to be done to improve but overall this is an excellent achievement. John commented putting great people in great jobs makes the company and should make us proud as employees.
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HR Policies Extreme Bad Weather Policy During periods of extreme bad weather employees should make all reasonable attempts to attend their place of work. Employees who cannot attend work must contact their line manager, and where applicable carry out work at home. Don’t forget all HR Policies can be found on In House.
News In Brief Car Wash Don’t forget you can have your car washed and valeted at a very reasonable price – starting from £10.00 whilst you work. Go onto In House and put your name on the spreadsheet to secure your place. The next car wash is on Wednesday April 29th and Thursday April 30th
Baby Boom at MHA! Congratulations to James Parry, Gavin Howells and Philippa and Joe Worgan on the births of their bundles of joy!
Mental Health Awareness Week 11th – 15th May 2015
One in four of us will have problems with our mental health at some time in our lives. Positive mental health and wellbeing is important for everyone and can affect all aspects of our lives including relationships, education and work. During the week, MHA’s Mental Health Champions will be promoting the Five Way’s to Wellbeing on each day and encouraging us all to take steps to improve and support our mental wellbeing. www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/888/page/61011 4
Quality homes and maintenance
Capsel have been busy over the last few weeks: Capsel Waste & Recycling services - Our new exciting business venture will be opening on the 8th April. We managed to secure grant funding towards purchasing some plant such as a shredder, baler, weighing equipment and a forklift. We will be organising an ‘open’ morning sometime in the next few weeks to give people a chance to come over and ask questions and take a look at how we segregate our waste. Capsel Lettings - We are currently managing MHA intermediate properties and looking to secure new contracts from private landlords . Sarah has been very busy creating a brand which we can promote initially within Monmouthshire but we are looking to extend this to other areas. We are able to offer a finder’s service or managing agents role. We aim to take the hassle out of being a landlord. If you know of anyone who has a property to rent and requires advice or support then please let them know about us. Capsel Property services - We are currently compiling next year’s cyclical programme for MHA. We have also just finished working with Maintenance and Housing on rebranding their ‘Life Begins’ project in a number of sheltered complexes. Our work with Tai Calon is still ongoing and this will continue throughout 2015. We have started work on the bungalow at Sandy Lane , this is due to be completed by September 2015. Capsel Home Essentials - Our new gas engineer is starting on 8th April, he has vast experience in the industry , he has worked for British gas for a number of years and has recently been the local Ideal service engineer for the area. We will be undertaking mail drops in the Monmouthshire and Torfaen areas over the next couple of weeks so look out for our leaflets through your door! Give us a call if you are interested we carry out services, repairs and installations at very competitive prices.
The Para Triathlon: I have taken part in sport all my life – before I started using a wheelchair I was a keen marathon runner, golfer, skier, surfer and mountain climber. After my diagnosis I still wanted to participate in sport and without sport I don’t think I would have managed; so I started swimming, wheelchair racing and handcycling as well as still going to the gym and fitness classes. During the last year I have completed a 2.5km swimathon, numerous 10kms and half marathon races along with participating in Parkrun on a Saturday morning. This year I wanted a new challenge so have enrolled in a Para Triathlon in August – I will still take part in races and a 5km swimathon. I am doing the Full Tri (Amateur) and have recently learnt that the Paralympian David Weir CBE will also be taking part! Training has become more intense, more focused and more technical than I ever imagined it could be at such an amateur level – previously I used to throw on a pair of smelly old trainers and pound the roads to train for marathons!.
My weakest discipline will be the open water swim. Swimming is definitely not my strong point or something I particularly enjoy, especially when trying to swim in a pool with a tri wet suit on! Luckily the weather is breaking so I can start open water swimming in Parc Bryn Bach lake again, as I did last year which is so much better. I will be doing the run and cycle elements in one, which will be a 26 mile push in my ‘racing’ wheelchair so increasing the training mileage will also be a challenge. I am currently training in excess of 16 hours per week which will slowly increase over the next couple of months, hence I have constantly aching muscles. My whole diet has been revised to increase protein and incorporate more complex carbs but the worse part is the limit on alcohol. I have little time for anything else in my life but it will be worth every second I’ve trained – even if I finish in last place at least I went out and tried it!
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Claire Griffin Web Wise Support Advisor Having only returned to the UK in November last year, after almost 10 years living and working overseas, I was very happy (and a little apprehensive) to join MHA earlier this year. With a background in online education and training, the social housing sector is very new to me, so I have really appreciated how welcoming and helpful everyone at HQ has been. Originally from Cwmbran, I am currently just enjoying being 7,000+ miles closer to friends and family than I have been for a very long time, and watching my daughter experience lots of new things here.
Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why? To be honest, it would take quite a lot (of stairs that is) to persuade me to go into a lift in the first place. However, if I were to be stuck on a dessert island with someone, perhaps Johnny Depp – not so bad to look at, and he must have learnt a thing or two from Pirates, right?
Emma Parry Senior Lettings Officer Hi, I’m Emma and I’m the new Senior Lettings Officer. Prior to coming over to MHA I worked as a Team Leader for Llamau’s Domestic Abuse Services for a few years although my background is in Allocations having worked for Cardiff Council for 12 years. In my spare time I like to be out and about and I’m actively involved in running an activity group for like-minded people, organising walks and outdoor activities.
Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why? If I had to be stuck in a lift with someone, it would have to be Michael Sheen. I find his voice very relaxing so I’m sure he can keep me calm long enough whilst we wait for the lift engineer!
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Why not say hello to all the new starters on
Claudia Blair Business Intelligence Analyst I have spent most of my career working in the public sector as a statistician working in Welsh Government, ONS, and the MOD and also in Malawi. After taking redundancy from Welsh Government, I worked in a local accounts firm for a couple of years. I live in Monmouth with my husband, David, my eight year old daughter, Maisie, our two cats and our dog. In my spare time I love going to the pictures, reading, hiking and travelling, but at the moment I don’t seem get much spare time as I’m finishing my AAT studies and I am treasurer at Maisie’s school PTFA.
Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why? I wouldn’t mind being stuck in a lift with Yotam Ottolenghi, especially if he had some delicious food that he’d just prepared with him. Otherwise we could chat about food, recipes and life.
We wish them the best for the future. Jennifer Davies Planned Maintenance/Invoice Assistant
Rob Morgan Waste Manager
Angela Zenati Neighbourhood Officer
Chanelle Baker Modern Apprentice Business Administration
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Continued... Lucy Rogers Welfare Reform Project Officer
Scott Howells, Community Investment Apprentice
Rachael Hopkins Home Ownership Co-ordinator
Ceri Knight Marketing Officer
Mike Parry Team Leader Responsive Repairs & Voids
Charlotte Michell Admin Assistant
Changes to Roles: Terry MacColl - Neighbourhood Officer 3 days / Community Safety Officer 2 days Lauren Lewis - Full time Neighbourhood Officer fixed term contract Dean Phillips - Neighbourhood Officer 8
30 Day Fitness Routine 1. Squats 2. Press Ups 3. Burpees 4. Jumping jacks 5. Sit ups 6. Step ups The principle is that you do each of these exercises daily and increase according to the date.
This is what I mean: • • • •
1st you do one of each 2nd you do 2 of each 3rd you do 3 of each 4th you do 4 of each and so on till the month ends
It’s a really good work out and each of these exercises can be modified depending on individual’s ability. It’s all about progression.
Keeping Fit At MHA Want to get fit for summer? Come along to one of the following activities:
Pilates Pilates is run in the Board Room, every Tuesday evening 5-6pm and costs £27 for 6 sessions. If you haven’t tried Pilates before and you would like to have a go without any commitment to paying for block sessions; Tania has some vouchers available for the month of September. We welcome all new members to the class and the instructor can accommodate varying levels of experience. Its gentle but most definitely challenging! If you are interested please contact Tania O’Neil.
Boxercise The Boxercise class runs every Thursday evening between 5 and 6pm in the Board Room. The class is suitable for all, with varying levels of exercise to suit everyones ability. The sessions are a mix of exercises, from running, skipping, circuits, kettlebells, boxing using focus pads and floor work. All equipment is provided. Best of all, it’s fun and lets us get out all those work stresses! So don’t just sit there - get your gloves on!
Look out for ‘24 fit club Cwmbran have a look at a few clips on Youtube of the classes: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejP0rxfAUVQ This is a free 4 week exercise programme with 4 MHA staff attending. Next wave of classes will probably be starting in May. It is completely FREE and open to anyone who is looking to make a lifestyle change in becoming fitter and healthier. All they need to do is get in touch with Sarah Needs to find out more.
Football Every Wednesday 5 – 6pm at the Football Factory, Cwmbran. If you’re interested in joining up with colleagues for a friendly (but competitive) game of 5-a-side after work on a Tuesday, drop Michael Harper or Dewi Parry an email. All Welcome! 9
COMPLIMENTS A tenant who attended the WHQS meeting would like to thank David Hood and Jane Philpott for... “The way they ran the meeting on Friday 30th January 2015.”
Mr Edwards would like to thank Matthew Taylor for... ”Being so supportive and helpful in his financial situation recently. He feels that Matt went above and beyond his role and he totally appreciated it and wanted him to know.”
Mrs Wilson would like to thank Karl Clague, Gareth Park and the CSA Team for... ”Repairing the central heating, they were a pleasure to have here. My heating is now working wonderfully. I would also like to thank the CSA Team who are always very helpful.”
Mrs Trueman would like to thank Rob Edgeworth for... ”Repairing the tap and thought that Rob was brilliant.”
Mr Lewis would like to thank Marc Weaving for... ”Getting his heating system back up and running. Excellent service and he is a great guy. Thanks very much.”
Tenants at Radstock Court would like to thank Dean Phillips for... ”Doing what he says he is going to do. They could not praise him enough for the work that he has been doing there.” 10
Job Shadowing at MHA What a great idea it is to involve all our folks in Job Shadowing! It gives both new and seasoned players the opportunity to see other aspects of work that MHA carry out. Within the offices at Headquarters all Community Services Advisors have completed a sort of ‘speed-dating’ of what other groups do within the building. This has been so essential, not only to know what each of us are involved with but also just to share information on each of our work areas and workloads. Out of these events the Community Services Team has put together an indispensable Address Book. This web-based tool contains not only useful numbers but essential procedures to be followed to complete the necessary repair work requests. As this tool is web based the use of diagrams, product instruction manuals and photographs can be added to aid explanation. Many of these photographs have been gathered during external job shadowing exercises. In addition, a certain amount of content is owned by individuals and can be reviewed at regular intervals to ensure it remains accurate. The benefit of all Community Services Advisors having access to this Address Book means that changes need only to be made once. Plus, we all share the
content that we have derived as a consequence of our individual job shadowing visits. As new members join the Community Services Team it has proved crucial to allow them to go out with Maintenance Officers and Surveyors just to see the type of work that we are involved in and the problems we face serving our many tenants day to day. For some, this has required a steep learning curve. However, once out of the office and being able to see for ourselves the many aspects of our involvement this learning curve can swiftly be shortcircuited. In addition, it gives us an opportunity to not only see our housing stock but also meet some of our tenants in person and for both of us to be able to put a face to a name. A few examples of the work covered from these visits have been added below.
sink was examined and a job arranged with the office for the next day to replace the perished seal between the waste outlet and the sink. We next visited Underhill Crescent, Abergavenny. Here, the tenant showed us a problem with the outside shed and toilet block. The whole block appeared to have slipped backwards. The damage looked far worse than it was as the section that was coming away carried very little weight. It was confirmed with the tenant that the roof would be supported whilst a repair was made to the wall.
One such maintenance inspection we attended involved mould on a bedroom wall. This is a common problem that we regularly encounter. The bedroom showed a clear case of a ‘cold spot’ and lack of ventilation as a wardrobe had been located near to the corner of an outside wall. Please see the photograph below.
The next property attended was at Dan-Y-Coed, Clydach. The coal house roof was leaking. The lead-flashing had lifted as can be seen within the photograph below. The area of concern is shown within the blue oval.
The tenant was advised to clean off the mould with an appropriate mould remover, along with further preventative advice. Whilst at the property the Maintenance Officer asked if there was anything else to be looked at. The tenant mentioned a waste outlet in the bathroom sink that was leaking. The
The above information hopefully clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of Job Shadowing. It provides a much needed area for communication and removes the necessity for a great deal of labourintensive hands on training. Moreover, it is most effective in building relationships between colleagues. 11
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TumbleUp4Life
Judgement Day III
In the TumbleUp4Life cyclists unite to gather funds in support of cancer recovery. The struggle to conquer the Iron mountain, also known as the Tumble as many times as possible (with a maximum of 15 times) in a single day symbolizes the sheer impossible task that cancer patients undertake every day to live life in spite of a disease. Cyclists climb the mountain as many times as they can; for one this might be once, for others up to 15 times. All cyclists will push their limits at their own level.
Cardiff Blues v Ospreys at 14.30
The climb starts in Llanfoist, the top is reached after 6 km, at the altitude of 512 m. So please join us on May 9th 2015 in aid of Cancer Research UK. https://tumbleup4life.wordpress.com/home/ Mynydd Du Mountain Running Club will put on a run from Llanfoist Church up and down the Blorenge Mountain to complement and support the TumbleUp4Life cycling event. Registration in the Village Hall in Llanfoist, the start will be at 11 AM; people run up and down the Blorenge on the traditional route from the Llanfoist Church to Foxhunters Car Park and return about 4 miles and 1,841 feet of climb (561 m). Some hard-core runners may like to try to run the Blorenge route as many times as they can in one day as per the established TumbleUp4Life Cycling event. Once may be enough!
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Newport Gwent Dragons v Scarlets at 16.45 Ticket Hotline: 0844 847 1881
Lap the Lake Don’t forget that our popular annual Lap the Lake event is at Parc Bryn Bach, Tredegar, on April 26th - the 10k race starts at 10.30am and the fun run, two laps of the lake, is at 12.30pm!
Way into Work
Work Placement Experiences: Abi Grieveson
Day Two 07:55hrs 03/02/2015 - The Cotlands, Trelleck Today we completed the emulsion and undercoating. Day Three 07:55hrs 04/02/2015 - The Cotlands, Trelleck Today we started glossing over the skirting’s and frames. Day Four 07:55hrs 05/02/2015 - The Cotlands, Trelleck Today we completed glossing the site and finished work. We then moved to a new site to work out what needed doing. Juliett Bravo was AWOL.
My general overall experience has been fantastic. I feel I’m comfortable working in an environment like Monmouthshire Housing and I felt part of the team that work on development.
Day Five 07:55hrs 06/02/2015 - Sylvan View, Tintern
I have gained more experience than I already had in admin. I feel like Patricia Jones is a great mentor I really do take my hat off to her, she really is an inspirational women. I want to say thank you to the people that have given me the opportunity to do a two week work placement with them and I really hope in the future that if an opportunity comes up like this again, I really hope I will be welcomed back as I have thoroughly enjoyed this experience.
Day Six 10:00hrs 09/02/2015 - HQ Mamhilad New site and new orders. I was working in the busy HQ of MHA. My CO was Cath Murray, radio codename Charlie Mike, she is stern… stern but fair. Other colleagues included Tricia Jones, (Papa Juliett), Abi Grieveson, (Alpha Golf ),and Farida Aslam, (Foxtrot Alpha). I prepared folders for new tenants and researched information for articles the Mon£y Matt£rs newsletter. I later backed up files onto the shared drive using scanners for Trish.
Samuel Hallam (Sierra Hotel)
Day Seven 10:00hrs 10/02/2015, HQ Mamhilad Today I continued to research articles and to back up files.
To infiltrate the MHA Corporation and acquire vital Intel on how work in the environments the mission is set in and to input said Intel into a CV, to acquire more missions in these fields. Day One 07:55hrs 02/02/2015 - The Cotlands, Trelleck We approached the rendezvous site at 07:55hrs and exited the civilian transport. I and Joel Butcher, radio codename Juliett Bravo, met the DLOs, two guys codenamed Richie and Dai. Our orders were to assist where possible in decorating the building to be sold. We mainly applied magnolia emulsion to the walls, and white undercoat to the skirting boards and door frames.
Today we were working on the new site. We put up frames, tacked in insulation and screwed in plaster board.
Day Eight 10:00hrs 11/02/2015 - HQ Mamhilad Today I continued to back up files. I then started work on this report Day Nine 10:00hrs 12/02/2015 - HQ Mamhilad Today I completed this report and the mission. Exfil at LZ rendezvous at 16:30hrs. End of report. Thanks to the help of Way into Work programme Abi is now a PA in Usk, and Sam is working at Chepstow Racecourse.
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Mount Kilimanjaro by Jill Morgan
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The Climb took 5 nights and 6 days in total Starting Height of climb – 1800 metres. Day 1 Rainforest, this was very humid but picturesque. With Monkeys swinging above us, but unfortunately could not get close as most had Rabies. We climbed a total of 1800 meters to the 1st base camp at Machame Camp very muddy indeed. We were advised by the medic to take the altitude sickness tablet, which most did, but little did we know we would be needing the toilet constantly for the 1st night as its was a diraretic. 6 hours of Treking Day 2 Was a steep climb for over 6-7 hours where your view took you into the clouds. We reached 3827 meters (height gain was just over 800m) Scenery was forever changing into heather and moorland to Camp no 2 Shira Plateau. The walks were slow to acclimatise to the altitude. I felt surprisingly good considering the lack of sleep the night before.
I was the first to the top, Arriving at 06:00 the following morning with the temperature at -21C, The Sunrise and views were out of this world. A quick photos shoot, then a descent of 4 hours to the camp, painful on the knees ouch! There we were informed we still had another 5 hours trek before we could rest. We had a 2 hour break to reenergise then a 5 hour trek to final camp to rest our tired bodies. Day 6 Final day This involved a 7 hour trek down down down, over boulders, even had 1 flat bit, then finally through the rainforest with superb views again. At 3:00pm we finally arrived at the Hotel to have our first shower of the week! Climbing the Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is truly an unforgettable experience. Mount Kilimanjaro rises up for the Rainforest of north eastern Tanzania to its pristine, snow and ice covered summit at 5,895 meters (19340 ft). This is the same height as a plane would fly from Heathrow to Newcastle.
The “Top Team” were all in good spirits Day 3 7 hours of walking today, trekked east across some beautiful barren moon like landscape and around craters that scar the earth. I was in awe of the surrounding scenery and forever saying “ it was lovely” which gave me the nickname “Welshy” by day 3. I felt quite sick on this walk and luckily the medic had plenty of anti-sickness pills to help. We reached altitude height of 4625 meters by midday but then descented to finish at 3960 metres by the end of the day, to help to acclimatise. Day 4 & Day 5 Rolled into one! The Trek on day 4, started with a Rock climb of the Barranco Wall, which was not for the faint hearted or for those struggling with heights either, then after a 7 hour trek we arrived at the final camp only to be told at 11:30 pm that night we would be walking the big hill to the Summit!
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Holidays 2015 Its that time of year again, when we’re all thinking about long sunny relaxing days and holiday destinations. The Guardian have put together some holiday information for both here and abroad, so whether your a home bird who likes the UK resorts and weather or if your interested in seeing the world and lying on white sandy beaches there is something for everyone. So sit back, relax and dream of your next holiday...
Top 10 beaches in the UK 1. 2. 3. 4.
Woolacombe beach, Woolacombe, Devon Weymouth beach, Weymouth, Dorset Rhossili Bay, Rhossili, Swansea St Brelade’s Bay beach, St Brelade, Jersey (even though it’s not the UK!) 5. Porthminster beach, St Ives, Cornwall 6. Perranporth beach, Perranporth, Cornwall 7. Fistral beach, Newquay, Cornwall 8. Luskentyre, Isle of Harris 9. Hengistbury Head, Bournemouth, Dorset 10. Sandbanks, Poole, Dorset
10 Best Beaches In Europe 2015 Tenby Harbour Beach Picturesque port on the corner of North Beach, between the old walled town and Castle Hill. There’s a small sandy beach Esgalgada under the wall of the port, which is perfect for young children. Rescue boat, the old and the new is South of Porto. Fun easy sailing boat rental or take an excursion by boat to Caldey Island. Praia da Cova Redonda A true paradise, with calm water and plenty of sun. To access the beach, have your way down a long series of steps paved down smooth in a Portuguese style, surrounded by greenery on both sides: pine trees, mastic trees and Sparta. The beach of the Bay is not large, but the room is full of protected corners and crannies of the rock formations with warm colours, sinuous and irregular. Forms, which originated on the cliffs of erosion and wear on the rocks are exceptional. There are some areas where the grey rock is almost “have been cemented” in some places, between the rows of cliffs. Zlatni Rat beach Zlatni Rat, often known as the Horn of Gold and Gold Cape (translated from the local Čakavisch), is a piece of land, about 2 kilometers (1 mile) West of the
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port of Bol, on the South coast of the island of BRAC, Croatia, in the region of Dalmatia. Beach of Isola Bella Taormina is 210 m (689 ft) above sea level. The side under Taormina, North and South, is very attractive. Several picturesque bays, caves, rocky coves and beaches of sand or gravel, uncomfortable with the cable car or the bus service from the hotel in the city. Los Caños de MECA Beach The lighthouse of Trafalgar is in the field of “Pipes”, a wide strip of sand with crystalline waters, where the natural monument is called”tombolo de Trafalgar”. You can practice Nudism at one end. It is possible to practice marine sports. Biarritz Beach Grand Biarritz beach is the beach of postcards with its palaces, striped awnings and clubs for children. He asked Praia idiots back and Empress, the Grande Plage Beach Biarritz Centre, with its shops, cafes and restaurants in the area. Virgin Iceland Creek With its trees of pine and Mediterranean beach scene, natural Island Bay Virgin (Virgin Iceland), also known as Saint-point, is a surprising and unusual place in Britain.
Come and discover all aspects of this unique natural jewel of boat, kayaking, walking, trail GR34 or fins / mask/snorkel. From the beginning, it is absolutely value! WARNING, the entrance to the beach is a bit expensive. Porto Santo Beach Porto Santo is a long beach, connected with a bit of an island. During its nine kilometres of soft white sand, you’ll see that only a handful of which Porto Santo was Hotels and restaurants, one of the “unknown” stations in Europe. Nissi Beach The beach stretches over 500 m and the water is clean, on the beach, who received the blue flag designation. The beach stretches to the length of the Bay itself, it takes its name from the islet (Nissi-Νησί in Greek), near the coast. Kampen Beach Small minds, but refined, exclusive and open, elegant and rural: Kampen is a town full of interesting contrasts. Endless sandy beaches and the Landes, a Red Cliff and nervous character, Frisians, witty and sparkling champagne discover the charm of the most famous village of the Germany. www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jan/03/ holiday-hotspots-where-to-go-in-2015 17
Team Spotlight -
Continuous Improvement Team Katie Needham
Lorna Wheater
Continuous Improvement
Continuous Improvement
Officer
Assistant
As part of the Corporate Services Team, the Continuous Improvement function provides a supportive role throughout MHA, in relation to:-
Throughout the year they have undertaken a training programme to help them develop their skills to undertake their work. We are currently looking to recruit to some vacancies so if you know any tenants that may be interested then please let us know.
Performance – We monitor and report on performance across MHA and provide support about various performance tools you can use. We also benchmark MHA’s performance with other RSL’s. We are currently working with managers on setting their targets for 2015/16 and reviewing what performance measures we have in place. Covalent is the performance management software we currently use. 3C’s Service (Complaints, Compliments & Comments) – we have recently launched the new 3C’s Service as a result of feedback from you and tenants. We hope that the new 2 stage process is more efficient for staff, and that it provides quicker and more satisfactory outcomes for complainants. Consultation– We are responsible for managing SNAP which is the consultation software for recording all MHA surveys. Visit Surveys, ASB Satisfaction Surveys, Exit Surveys, and Annual Tenant Survey. For those of you who are interested in SNAP, we have recorded a tutorial that you can access via In House! SUIT’s and the Scrutiny Panel - Scrutiny Panel: The Scrutiny Panel are a group tenants who help us look at various services. The panel don’t just look from their point of view but take into consideration other tenants feelings by looking at consultation that we have available and by holding workshops in different tenant groups. 18
The panel are thinking of changing their name, if you have any suggestions then please let us know. SUITs: The SUIT’s are a group of tenant’s who help test our services to the service standards that we promise to our tenants. This process provides MHA with valuable information on customer’s experience of the service. Business Excellence Accreditations – The Customer Service Excellence Standard is made up of 5 criterions with 57 elements in total. The assessment was carried out via a desktop review by an assessor followed by an on-site visit in February. This accreditation tests in great depth those areas that research has indicated are a priority for customers, with particular focus on delivery, timeliness, information, professionalism and staff attitude. There is also emphasis placed on developing customer insight, understanding the user’s experience and robust measurement of service satisfaction. After working on this for little over a year, the Excellence Accreditation was achieved in February 2015 with 18 exemplar criterions! Thank you to everyone for your help.
Competitions See if you can find all the Easter Eggs hidden in this edition of EBuzz. There are Easter Eggs hidden throughout EBuzz, find them and count them all then submit your answer by email to: sian.hughes@ monmouthshirehousing.co.uk by 9am on Friday 17th April 2015 to be in with a chance of winning.
Rugby Tickets Winner Lorna Wheater was the lucky winner of the two tickets to see Cardiff Blues v Ospreys at the Millennium Stadium on April 25th KO 14:30. She correctly unscrambled the names of the rugby players and was drawn out of the hat.
DIY TIPS By Scott Collier
Basic Tool Kit: 1. A claw hammer 2. A set of screwdrivers (Phillips and slotted). 3. A set of pliers/side cutters 4. A set Hexagonal keys 5. A set of Gas pliers and an adjustable wrench
Name the In House Character Winner
6. 24’’ Spirit level
Congratulations to Jim Jones who won the competition to name our new In House mascot. The winning suggestion was Eric! Thank you to everyone who put forward names and took part in the voting to name our new mascot. Look out for Eric on the new version of In House which will be launching this month!
7. A set of saws, wood cutting and metal (hacksaw). 8. A Tape measure 9. A Stanley type knife (with retractable blade). 10. 1A Strong bag/box to store them in.
All items can be sourced at wilko’s and are of good quality. Total cost is around £80 For DIY tips there’s a good site with video instructions by Tommy Walsh and Charlie Dimmock called letsfixit.co.uk 19
The Great Daffodil Collection for Marie Curie Cancer Care Therefore bringing the total too £147.94. I would like to take this opportunity the thank Monmouthshire Housing for their support with charity work/ers. Even though this may only be a small contribution in the grand scheme of the daffodil collection we have made a HUGE difference to someone’s life. As some of you maybe aware I am a regular fundraiser for Marie Curie Cancer Care which I have been doing since 2004. I have trekked mountains, two swimmathon’s and various collections. On Friday 20th February 2015 MHA allowed me to take time from work to attend a MCCC collection at Sainsbury’s in Newport between 11:00 – 13:00. During that time I raised £94.86. The following week I brought the MCCC daffodil’s to MHA and we raised £53.08.
The Dads Can team are spreading their wings and extending into Newport. We have been given the go ahead from The BIG Lottery to run a pilot scheme which is starting in Duffryn, Maesglas and The Gaer with a view to cover the rest of Newport by the end of the year, while still having a strong presence across Monmouthshire. We have started getting the word out to organisations and communities that we are around and keen to get involved – and to prove it we’ll be taking part in the Duffryn Easter Play Event on 9th April. We have some new things happening in Monmouthshire – with a Dads Gaming Session and Dads Gym Session both taking off in Abergavenny,
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Thank You – Domini If you would like to take part, please take a look at the following: Support our Cardiff and the Vale Hospice by signing up for our fabulous new trek to Costa Rica in April 2016. Climb 5 volcanoes and take on a canopy trail over the rainforest. www.mariecurie.org.uk/trekforpenarth
and a new Dads & Kids session about to start in Chepstow. We are also now a mobile distribution site for the C Card scheme – which distributes free condoms to young people aged 14-25. Dom (07964 845727) is now looking after the Chepstow and Caldicot area while Jim (07812 063474 ) is concentrating on Abergavenny and Monmouth area. We are planning our Father’s Day campaign and would really like to hear from you if you are a dad of any age about what the best /worst bit of being a dad is. We want to get the views and experiences of dads more widely heard so please tell us what you think. You can email us on dads.can@ monmouthshirehousing.co.uk, private message us on Facebook, text on 07891 684499 or come and see us on the 1st floor. If you want to find out what we’re up to why not join the 430 people following us on Facebook or the 630 followers on Twitter.
Growing the Future Growing the Future is here to help you grow your own food successfully We do this by offering training and information to you, close to where you live. All our trainers have years of experience growing their own food, and will share their top tips and vital advice with you. Trainers are based throughout Wales, at various organisations that partner us in this exciting work. At the heart of the Growing the Future project, is the National Botanic Garden of Wales, where the project is managed.
Enjoy courses such as: • • • • • • • •
Success with seeds All about Herbs Grow me, eat me, family fun Pruning of fruit Great green manures Keeping chickens What to do with your garden this month And many more...
Have a look at their website to find out more: http://www.growingthefuture.co.uk/en
Here are a selection of “Pickles” that you have awarded to your colleagues recently: Becky Hoggins has ‘pickled’ the IT team for... “Working so hard and saving the day by removing a virus from MHA’s files, whilst carrying out the transfer to host Total Repairs on our own platform. Well done to everyone in IT.” Clayton Charles has ‘pickled’ Marni Baker for... “Taking it upon herself to take down, remove, wash and iron the curtains and nets at Radstock Court before re-hanging following an extended period of use. Marni didn’t have to do this and I want to thank her for taking the initiative in the best interest of the next person to use it.” Jessie Sibthorpe has ‘pickled’ Jane Grayer for... “Helping to stuff and send hundreds of mailings for the forum when I needed it, thanks for being so kind and helpful Jane!” Domini Barnes has ‘pickled’ Robert Edgeworth for... “Coping with a HUGE amount of plumbing repairs and not even complaining :-) Thank You.”
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Do you think your colleagues should be recognised for their additional work efforts? Going above and beyond customer expectation and showing a good service. Then award them a pickle via In House. A prize will be awarded to the employee with the most pickles during the quarter. 21
Suggestion Action If you have a suggestion and would like to be in with a chance of winning £50, please complete a GEMS form via In House or use the cards and GEMS post boxes allocated around building. Instead of the music we use when people are on hold. Use this to advertise/promote our services and inform people about events, meetings and estate walkabouts being held etc. Still with IT. Have a managers reward toolkit, for example when the team have carried out a project and has gone really well or have had to cover at short notice due to sickness, a small additional reward for the team for their efforts by taking them for a bacon roll and a coffee before work or at lunch time - just to say thanks and remind them they are appreciated. When you have a team of four or more it can be expensive for the manager to pay themselves - however there would have to be a limit to how much and how many times it can be used. Karen Williams to take to SMT to discuss process. 22
To have a facility to purchase stamps either via petty cash or have a stamp machine. Finance comments - Occasionally people ask if they can post their own personal letters through the machine and give us the cash to cover it. However this is based on trust that people tell us. We don’t want this to become a common practice as monitoring it would be a nightmare. We can’t buy stamps any cheaper than anywhere else either so there would be no benefit to staff. Facilities agreed. Have an area where people can go and de-stress - a quiet room with mood lighting i.e. something like “the egg” a 15 min relaxation machine - just a small room that if you are poorly you can go - like the nurses office when you were in school. Bed ordered by Facilities to be placed in shower room. Walking Desk. To share amongst departments on a daily rota. To raise moral and enthusiasm as well as keeping fit. Sue Kidd looking into practicalities. CSA to test. To order sick bags for first aid boxes. (Incident when employee was feeling sick, no facilities). Mary Mills to order.
Update and keep updated email distribution list on Outlook and In House with correct job titles, tel numbers and remove individuals that no longer work here. Most new starters refer to this, so important to keep updated. IT to check and update from list of employees and posts from HR. IT requested anyone who spots an incorrect piece of information to tell them. Employees are able to add/change their phone number on In House. It would be handy to have a description of the meeting rooms on the booking page, where it is, number of people it holds, what equipment is available inside... IT has started to do this. Any employee phoning in sick leave for the third time or more in a 12 month period to phone their Director or HR Manager to report their sickness. This should act as a further deterrent for people phoning in and having short sick absences. Karen Williams - The sickness management procedures mirror our Capability Procedure, so a Director and the HR Manager can only be involved if the formal procedure reaches the appropriate stage. It is important for managers to speak to employees when they ring in sick regardless of the number
of occasions to clarify work requirements. As a way of highlighting excellent customer service throughout MHA and keeping the recent refresher training at the forefront of peoples’ minds, introduce an ‘Employee of the Month’ type award that is nominated for by the tenants. Can be promoted via newsletters, website, etc Rob Carey said this could be presented to Tenant Forum who meet bi monthly.
Staff away days - Awards to staff - I feel should identify all departments. Therefore why not send a survey beforehand with all departments and names within that department. To choose one person from each department I just feel we all do a great job Already done but could be added to.
Christmas Shut Down - BronAfon & Newport City Homes are closed between Xmas & New Year, that leave comes as an entitlement which is better for company Set up system where departments’ as leaves less leave to arrange throughout the year and relevant emails are sorted into separate on call and cover is already in folders so it is easier to see which place department has emails to be Already discussed by SMT. read. Staff prefer to have option of Carol Thompson to speak to working or not. suggestee for clarification To have lunchtime or other time (Big Chat Café for staff ) for teams to explain to others what their teams does and individuals to explain their roles, include a quick question and answer session. Like a face to face version of spotlight on MHA. To inform staff and encourage ideas and interaction and clear up misconceptions Excellent idea. Send Welcome to your New Home cards from Homesearch Team to vulnerable tenants on sign up Homesearch will do. It was suggested that Graham Harvey designs the card.
Emails – to have a second ‘inbox’ in Outlook. 1st inbox for all work related stuff as it should be. 2nd inbox for non-related work stuff, charity events, fundraising, cakes, car wash No – delete emails if not wanted anyway. MHA Open Day for businesses within Mamhilad Park, as a meet & greet to know our neighbours and to promote our services and potentially capture people looking at Cwmbran/Pontypool to move to also consider MHA As long as suggestee would organise.
Disabled toilet hand dryer too low for non-wheelchair users The disabled facilities meet the correct specification ability for the Discrimination Act (DDA) and subsequent Equality Act. Hand towels to be placed in toilet, waste bin to be ordered. Please could we have the staff phone lists (paper copy) added to In House so that we always have access to an up to date one? Could the Neighbourhoods patch lists also be added to In House so that again we all have access to the most up to date ones in one place without having to print them off? Suggestee showed how to search on In House, Outlook and on phone. Request that IT put more how to guides on In House. Helpful tips could be included in EBuzz. Administrators of each section need to keep Inhouse up to date.
It’s a Roll-Over! There was no outright winner of last quarter’s Staff Suggestions, therefore the prize money rolls over to Quarter 1. A Winning ‘GEM’ will be awarded £100 for an idea that benefits MHA through improvements in service delivery quality and/or effectiveness. This is not necessarily about saving money but suggestions must demonstrate an improvement for staff and/or our customers that are in line with MHA Values. That’s worth getting your thinking hats on. Suggestions to be submitted in the Suggestion Boxes at HQ or via In House electronic forms by 31st May. 23
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Tweet (@TPASCymru) Thank you @Mon_Housing for agreeing to sponsor the Outstanding Achievement Award at this year’s #participationawards2015 Tweet (@Hayley_CHC) Great to see @WWHA @NewyddHousing @ CoastalHousing @PennafHGroup @MelinHomes @Mon_Housing on top 100 not for profit #BestLists2015 Tweet (@Mon_Housing) Walking the Severn Bridge this morning for Homes for Britain key handover with @MerlinHousing @ TRHousing. If you see us tweet #homesforbritain Tweet (@Mon_Housing) Tom is on work placement @Mon_Housing with #WayIntoWork @Mon_Youth he says “I’m enjoying the placement and adding experience to my CV”. Tweet (@Mon_Housing) Our staff getting involved in #rednoseday today for @comicrelief. Anyone else doing something #funnyformoney?
Chris York
Rising Star Cymru Finalist 2015 Chris York is one of this year’s CIH Rising Stars Cymru Finalists. Chris is the Policy and Projects Officer which involves helping to implement best practice throughout the organisation, helping to co-ordinate service reviews, developing new projects and business opportunities and aiming to ensure that tenants are involved with the development / improvement of policies and procedures. Chris decided to apply for this year’s Rising Star Cymru as he wanted to take on the challenge and believes that setting new goals in life is really important. Chris also knows two previous finalists who found the experience worthwhile and feels that taking part in the competition will help to raise his profile and develop his career even further. During the TAI Conference Chris is keen to take part in discussions on future housing policy in Wales. Chris who is proud to work in social housing and is in the sector for life said “To win the award would be a massive accolade for me and my friends and family would be very proud of me. Winning the award would also give me increased confidence in my career progression in the future.” If you are attending the TAI 2015 Conference on 28 – 30th April – Don’t forget to vote for Chris! Watch Chris’s Rising Star Video on In House now.
On Twitter? Why not follow us @mon_housing 24
CuIsine Corner Restaurant Review Wahaca, Cardiff By Lorna Wheater
With an abundance of choice for restaurants in Cardiff, it’s hard to know which one to pick! After hearing the hype about a new Mexican restaurant in Cardiff’s’ St David’s Centre, a couple of friends and I decided to give it a go! Wahaca is actually owned by a previous contestant of Master Chef Australia (which I love!) who wanted to put a modern, fresh spin on the usual Mexican restaurant, and has already won a copious number of awards for the design of his restaurant and his innovative approach to food. Inside is a vibrant, loud restaurant with a really modern feel to it, set out over 3 floors. The first floor is light and open with tables in front of an open kitchen. The second floor has a more romantic feel with candle lit smaller tables, and finally upstairs is a cocktail bar with quirky seating areas, and a balcony with bird cage seats hanging from the ceiling, overlooking the restaurant below. We decided to hit the upstairs cocktail bar to have a sneaky Mojito while we waited for a seat!
Welcome to Cuisine Corner! We all love food and it’s always good to get some inspiration from others about what to cook and where to go. Each edition, we want some tantalisingly tasty, tried and tested recipes and reviews to feature in Cuisine Corner. Once sat, the easiest choice was that we all decided we wanted to try what they call ‘Street Food’. Our waiter explained that the Wahaca Street food section is where they want you to ‘explore food as if you were walking through a Mexican food market, where you pick 3-4 dishes per person to share with friends’. We also decided to go for a Tequila, just to get in the true Mexican spirit! They have so many to choose from, but after much deliberation we went for a Del Maguey. Both the food and cocktails we chose were delicious! All of us loved our choices, and it was really good fun trying out lots of different food. Unfortunately, after eating all that, we were too full for a dessert, which was a shame, because with more unusual desserts like chocolatey churros, plantain fritters and salted caramel icecream I would definitely have liked to have tried one... maybe next time because I will definitely be returning!
RECIPE Sweet Chilli Chicken Drumsticks Serves 12 Ingredients • 1 tablespoon honey • 5 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce • 3 tablespoons soy sauce • 12 chicken drumsticks, skin removed Method Prep: 10min › Cook: 20min › Ready in: 30min In a large bowl, mix together the honey, sweet chilli sauce and soy sauce. Set aside a small dish of the marinade for basting. Place chicken drumsticks into the bowl. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour. Preheat barbecue for medium high heat. Lightly oil the barbecue cooking grate. Arrange drumsticks on the grate and cook for 10 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Baste frequently with the reserved sauce during the last 5 minutes.
If you would like to share your ideas with us, then please get in touch with the Corporate Services Team. 25
Mike Parry’s Leaving Do! Goytre Sports and Social Club was the venue for past and present DLO operatives and staff to celebrate Mike’s retirement after working for 38 years for MCC and MHA . I‘m not sure if it was the attraction of 3 rugby games in one afternoon or Mike’s retirement that led to a high number of staff attending to say their farewell’s to a respected colleague. Those who arrived at 12.00pm and stayed to late in the evening were well oiled at the end. Mike thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and thanked everybody that attended.
Roofing Works
This year Asset Management replaced over 300 roofs as part of its ongoing planned works. The sites were spread out throughout the County but with the majority this year being in the north of the County. Also undertaken were a considerable number of roofs outside of the planned programme which had developed failure through batten/felt failure or chimney leaks. The roofs were of varying types I.e. double Romans, 49Er’s and slate. Prior to commencing works on any roof that had a vertical gas flue this would be isolated by a qualified Engineer who would then return late afternoon after that section of roof had been stripped of the original roof covering and replaced with the new felt/batten/tiles. On completion of resetting the flue all required tests were carried out to ensure everything complied to gas safe regulations ensuring that the tenant had their heating and hot water back on the same day. Part of the contract included removing chimney’s that were no longer in use which amounted to all chimneys at The Avenue And The Villas being removed. Also included was the temporary removal of solar pv. Sky dishes/aerials which were removed from the chimneys were temporarily fixed to the scaffold again on completion of the roof works these were reinstated to the fabric of the property and the solar pv back on to the new roof. Scaffold was normally erected 7 days prior to commencing the roofing works and removed 2 days after completion including the cleaning and removing of skips from each property.
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Social Events RHS Show Cardiff April 17th - 19th 2015, Bute Park, Cardiff Castle Held at Bute Park, in the grounds of Cardiff Castle, the RHS Show Cardiff is the perfect way to launch yourself out of the clutches of winter and into the light of spring in 2015. As one of the first major RHS events, the RHS Show Cardiff showcases the very best spring flowers and plants. Places to stay in Cardiff for the RHS Show Cardiff Eventful stays is proud to be able to offer a variety of luxury self catering accommodation in Cardiff, perfect for the RHS Show Cardiff. Whether you’re looking for a cottage, house or apartment, Eventful Stays has all your accommodation need covered. www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events
Bank Holiday Fun at White Castle Sunday 3rd - Monday 4th May, £3
range of medieval characters and get involved in a variety of handson activities for the whole family. cadw.wales.gov.uk/events
Llantilio Crossenny Music Festival at Abergavenny Sunday 10th - Monday 18th May The festival is held in the beautiful St Teilo’s Church Points of Interest, which dates from the 13th century. Llantilio Crossenny lies between Abergavenny, the “Gateway to Wales”, and Monmouth. The Festival programme always includes a night of opera, an orchestral concert, normally a children’s concert, an evening of lighter music (a “fun” evening) and a sung Evensong on the Sunday evening. If the programme permits then from time to time, we like to include a ballet. The Church seats approximately 200, and we expect each concert to play to a full or nearly full house. www.llantiliofestival.co.uk
wild foods that include the St George’s mushrooms. Join us on our foraging woodland adventure! Henry Ashby, expert forager and supplier of wild food to Wales’ top restaurants, will lead this foray in the St Pierre’s Great Woods just outside of Chepstow. Henry will teach you how to identify these edible treats and how to forage sustainably. We hope to find St. George’s mushrooms, and other spring treats such as ramsons, wild chervil, pig nuts and celandine. After our forage we will head to The Millers Arms in Mathern near Chepstow to enjoy a light bite featuring foraged foods. We will talk about the wild foods found on the day and give you lots of ideas and tips on what to do with your edible treats. Please bring good outdoor clothes and shoes/boots. Our day will start at 12:15 at the Millers Arms for a welcome coffee or tea before we head in convoy to St Pierre’s Woods. We will forage until 2:40 and then head back for a light lunch What’s Included •Welcome tea or coffee •Guided forage walk by Henry Ashby •A light bite featuring foraged food Price £45.00 for adults (13+) and £15.00 for children (12 and under)
A jam packed weekend of activities this early May bank holiday. Come and meet our historical characters, experience a spectacular battle reenactment, or have a go at a family activity including have-a-go candle making and archery.
Food Adventure: St George’s Mushroom Forage
Meeting Point: Millers Arms, Mathern, nr Chepstow, Monmouthshire NP16 6JD
Saturday 2 May 2015
Visitors to White Castle this early May bank holiday will be able to travel back in time and meet a
May is a glorious time of the year for foraging. It’s the time when you will find wonderful spring
Call to check latest times or cancellations.
Contact telephone: 07542 689608
www.foodadventure.co.uk/ adventure/st-georgesmushroom-forage 27
Board Away Day • Corporate Plan, visions and values.
The Board Away Day was held on 4th February 2015 at the Glen Yr Afon House Hotel in Usk. The majority of the Board members attended, along with John Keegan, Steve Higginson, Liz Jones (who did a presentation on CAPSEL), Kate Bradbrook and an external facilitator Judy Wayne, from Altair Consultants. The agenda for the day covered the following topics: • Sector Risks • Capsel Business Plan • Risk Management and review of MHA
The Board members recognised the need to focus on the future direction of the organisation; what to do next to develop and grow. Following on from the meeting a final version of the Corporate Plan was prepared for the March Board along with revised Objectives which Board Members had started to develop at the away day. A succession plan for Board members and SMT was discussed along with learning opportunities for current members. The facilitator noted the Board was challenging, engaging, had a vision for the future and brought a wide perspective of varying experience to the organisation. The facilitator was particularly impressed by the relationship between the Board and the Executive Officers which was clearly based on respect and trust. The facilitator also commented on the sheer range of activities which MHA was successfully engaged with and how these activities could be used to project a very positive image of MHA.
LGPS Members’ pension contribution rates for 2015/16 from 1 April 2015: Contribution Table 2015/16 Band
28
Actual pensionable pay for an employment
Contribution rate for that employment Main section
50/50 section
1
Up to £13,600
5.5%
2.75%
2
£13,601 to £21,200
5.8%
2.9%
3
£21,201 to £34,400
6.5%
3.25%
4
£34,401 to £43,500
6.8%
3.4%
5
£43,501 to £60,700
8.5%
4.25%
6
£60,701 to £86,000
9.9%
4.95%
7
£86,001 to £101,200
10.5%
5.25%
8
£101,201 to £151,800
11.4%
5.7%
9
£151,801 or more
12.5%
6.25%
Cwrt Severn Events Caldicot Male Voice Choir gave their Christmas Carol presentation to the Cwrt Severn residents in December last year. The Male Voice Choir has long been a tradition in Wales and Caldicot have continued that tradition admirably. Long may it continue.
The annual Table Top Sale event, which normally raises between £250 and £300 and which is used for the welfare of the Cwrt Severn residents in the form of day excursions, a visit to the theatre and the celebration of significant birthdays or anniversaries plus weekly armchair aerobics sessions and any other activity that is beneficial took place. Cwrt Severn receive very good support from MHA and other organisations, all of which helps in promoting good community spirit.
Direct Payments Pilot MHA are now 3 months into the 12 month Direct Payments Pilot and are currently receiving rent directly from 70 tenants that have signed up to receive their housing benefit directly into their bank accounts. This is in readiness for the implementation of Universal Credit in September 2015 and will prepare MHA and our tenants for its introduction. Some 1492 tenants of MHA will be affected by the introduction of Universal Credit. Benefits of the pilot include: • Raised awareness amongst tenants of Universal Credit and how it will affect them; • Raised awareness amongst staff throughout MHA • Testing of processes and relationships e.g. HB and switchbacks; • Greater insight into the payment habits of tenants and their ability to budget monthly; • Understanding of the need for additional resources e.g. tenancy support; and • Improved communication and information for staff and customers
Smart Move Scheme Since the launch of Smart Move in June 2013, 35 MHA tenants have successfully moved home thanks to the Smart Move Incentive scheme.
The scheme will continue during 2015/2016, there will be 25 grants available of upto £1000 – these grants will be awarded on a first come first served basis for those that meet the criteria. In order to be eligible the tenant will need to be registered with Homesearch and they will be put onto assisted bidding – although they are still free to make bids themselves via Homesearch The tenant should also be under occupying their current property and move, via Homesearch, to a property that they will fully occupy. The tenant can move to any Homesearch partner property in Monmouthshire including those with Melin, Charter and MCC. Overall the tenants who have utilised the Smart Move Scheme have been pleased with the service and are satisfied with their new property. 29
A day in the life of... A Neighbourhood Officer Our Neighbourhood Services team are here to help tenants with their rent account, general queries relating to their tenancy, concerns related to antisocial behaviour and physical improvements to their communities and neighbourhoods. Offering a varied job where no two days are the same, a Neighbourhood Officer is often the first point of contact for tenants who are looking for support, advice or answers to queries. Our Neighbourhood Officers are here to build relationships with tenants, providing support to help them manage their tenancy. Although you can’t capture a ‘typical’ day of a Neighbourhood Officer as every day is different, here Tina James gives us an insight into one of her working days.
9am Arrive at Chepstow. Each Neighbourhood Officer covers a ‘patch’ and mine involves 545 tenancies in the Chepstow and surrounding areas. My first appointment is to sign a new tenant. After going through the paperwork, I hand the house keys over and she tells me she is thrilled with her new home.
10am I visit a tenant whose property is in a very poor condition. This lengthy and emotional visit ends with an agreement to a referral to social services and tenancy support. I agree to visit her regularly to ensure she is coping and that the condition of the property has improved.
11.15am This is the first of my rent arrears visits. I have several notices of seeking possession to serve today and this is the first. The tenant agrees to a MoneyWise referral and we make an arrangement for him to pay extra on top of his rent until his rent is clear. The tenant is also affected by the Bedroom Tax so I complete an application for a Discretionary Housing Payment to help bridge the shortfall. 30
11.30am I carry out inspections of flats on my patch. I have worked hard to address the dumping of rubbish in this area and I am pleased to see it has much improved.
11.45am I visit a recently bereaved tenant and help them to complete tenancy succession paperwork.
12.15pm Lunch in my car!
12.45 – 2.30pm The afternoon means more visits to tenants to discuss rent arrears, anti-social behaviour and estate management.
3.15pm I arrive back at the office and start updating our system with details of my visits, outcomes and further actions required. I continue working on rent arrears and anti-social behaviour issues.
4.15pm I write up any referrals for tenants I visited today to social services, tenancy support and MoneyWise and scan and email the relevant people. I always set reminders in my calendar to follow up on the referrals in a couple of weeks.
5pm I find this time of day much quieter and easier to concentrate so I use this time to finish up what I can.
6pm Leave for home, pleased that I have got so much done but already thinking about what needs doing tomorrow.
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