G2G
Christmas 2015
Formerly Gateway to Greenfields
National changes in housing How do they affect you?
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Lucky Number 7 Meet our new apprentices
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Tea Break
Low-cost household items
See Page 12
Warehouse now open
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@GreenfieldsCH
Contents P3 P3 P3 P4 P6 P6 P7 P7 P8 P10 P11 P12 P13 P14 P16 P17 P17 P18 P20 P20 P22 P22 P23 P24 P25 P26
Want to donate or buy low-cost household items? Lucky number 7 How great are you guys? A letter from Phil - National changes in housing: how do they affect you? How you can help us save money Beware of sharks Universal Credit: What’s the story? Need help with the cost of Christmas? What’s been happening out there? Noticeboard Everyone’s a winner Teabreak Kids’ Corner My story: “Please include disabled models as standard” Be Connected: Get Online Being a Digi-Pal, by Charlotte Ross Have you visited our portal? In their own words Staying safe and warm this winter Get a warm welcome from Age Concern Did you know…? Ever considered giving blood? Don’t stand for it: domestic abuse How does your garden grow? TUMBLES: Seven steps to fall prevention Know your Board
A welcome from the editor “Brrr…it’s certainly getting nippy out there. I hope it has snowed by the time this goes to print, but I know that not everyone enjoys the snow as much as I do! If you have any concerns about tackling the cold, please take a look at our ‘Staying Safe and Warm This Winter’ feature on page 12. Christmas is now just around the corner and then it will be a new year, and, for some, a new start. This is especially true of Greenfields, as we (along with all other housing associations in the country) have been asked by the Government to reduce our rents by 1% for the next four years; meaning that we need to save £12.5 million. You can find out some of the ways we will do this in the ‘Letter from Phil’, on pages 4-5. The changes we are having to make are significant and I strongly suggest that you take a look. One of the smaller savings we are making is to publish two editions of this magazine per year, rather than four. As usual, we have been getting out into the community as much as possible – visiting local schools to help to keep pupils safe on the street & online; and holding a terrifyingly fun pumpkin-sculpting event to celebrate Halloween in style. Congratulations to the winners of our gardening & colouring competition winners; as well as our Community Spirit Award winners. This issue, we are asking for kids to send in pics of their homemade festive bakes, and their arty ‘spring-time’ drawings or paintings. Have a fantastic Christmas, and see you again soon.”
Daisy
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Happy Christmas!
Amanda x
Amanda Bhavnani - Editor
Call: 01376 332473 Email: Amanda.Bhavnani@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk
LUCKY NUMBER 7
Want to donate or buy low-cost household items? A new community facility has opened on East Street in Braintree; offering quality pre-owned and discounted white goods and furniture to all. The converted workshop and shop is owned by Tendering Reuse and Employment Enterprise (T.R.E.E.) and you can buy sofas, dining room sets, beds, fridges, freezers, ovens, dishwashers and more at a low cost. And if you are a Greenfields’ tenant or leaseholder and a member of Greenfields, the £10 delivery charge is waived. The project has been made possible through a £150,000 grant from Greenfields and Braintree District Council.
We are pleased to have taken on seven new apprentices in the past six months as part of a scheme for local businesses pledging to hire 30 apprentices in 30 days. In total, we are taking on 10 apprentices over the full 12-month campaign. The apprenticeships are in a variety of trades, including painting & decorating, plastering & tiling, and plumbing. Paris Griffiths, 19-years-old, is an Electrical Apprentice for Greenfields, and she said: “So far, I am really enjoying learning new skills and meeting new people. Everyone at Greenfields has been so friendly and supportive; and I hope to achieve a long-term career within the company.” To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities at Greenfields, please visit: www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/apprenticeships or call 01376 535400. You can also follow @Greenfieldsjobs to keep updated.
How great are you guys?
In addition to shopping you can also: • Donate used furniture, white goods and other household items • Benefit from employment, work placement and volunteering opportunities. The workshop and shop are open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, from 9.30am – 4pm. More information about the shop and work and volunteering opportunities can be found at www.tree1.org.uk. You can also contact Gary Elson at Greenfields on: 01376 535400 or Gary.Elson@GreenfieldsCH. org.uk to find out about becoming a member of Greenfields, or visit www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/membership
“My husband and I would like to say a big ‘thank you’ for the job well done on our new bathroom and kitchen. All you guys were great. Hard-working, friendly, but, most of all, you made sure that our day-to-day life was not too disrupted and, at the end of the day, we had all the amenities we needed in a clean environment. Also, thank you for the way that little Lucy, our puppy, was reassured by all that came in. It was nice to meet all you guys. A job well done!”
Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
National changes in housing: how do they affect you? A letter from Phil Adams, our Chief Executive The Government’s summer budget announcements have significant implications for housing associations across the country, including Greenfields. The Government had previously guaranteed that rents would increase by inflation plus 1% for the next 10 years. This is what we based our future plans on but the Government has now said that we need to reduce rents by 1% each year until 2020. This results in a £12.5 million reduction in our income. In addition, there are further restrictions to welfare benefits, enhancements to incentives on Right to Buy, the introduction of Universal Credit, and the withdrawal of direct benefit payments. All of these changes represent further potential threats to our income. This means, quite simply, that we need to reduce the amount of money that we spend in order to save £12.5 million over the next four years. We are committed to saving this money whilst maintaining excellent services, and our Board and involved resident groups have been planning how we can do this. Here are some changes that may affect the services you receive from us:
Home 1.
All our homes will continue to meet the Government’s Decent Homes standard, but there may be some adjustments.
Example: The Greenfields standard is currently much more generous than the Government’s Decent Homes standard. Currently, we automatically replace kitchens and bathrooms after a set period of time. In future, an assessment will be made as to whether the replacement date can be extended, as per the Government’s standard. 2.
We have already remodelled five older persons’ schemes and our sixth scheme will be finished in March 2016. However, we will postpone remodelling any further schemes until 2020, when we will review the situation
3.
We have already built 120 homes for “affordable rent” (80% of market rent), and will continue to build homes, although we may have more homes made available for shared ownership and outright ownership.
Service 4.
Witham and Halstead offices will close from 5pm on 24 March 2016, and there will be a limited reception service at Greenfields House in Braintree.
However: there are lots of ways to contact to us, including email, telephone calls, visiting our website, and using our Self-service Portal (allows you to view your repair history; check your rent balance, update your household details, send us a message and more). Or you may prefer to write to us or request a home visit. Please tell us if you are concerned about the office closures and we can talk you through the other options available.
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5.
We will reduce our printing and distribution costs.
Example: We will produce and print two editions of G2G magazine per year, rather than four, and we will look to send more of these electronically i.e. by email. We will be producing electronic-only versions of some documents, which will be available on our website and by email.
Community 6.
Over the past two years we have carried out major improvements in several areas across the district to the benefit of local communities, as part of our Neighbourhood Action Plans (NAPs). We will not continue to carry out NAPs.
7.
We will be reducing the amount of environmental improvements we make within neighbourhoods, such as installing additional benches & bins, landscaping and parking improvements.
8.
We will be reducing the amount of funding available for local projects and organisations. Our annual ÂŁ50,000 Community Fund and ÂŁ250 Fast Access Fund will cease, although our joint Community and Housing Partnership Fund with Braintree District Council will continue.
People 9. There will be no pay increase for myself and my team of directors for the next four years. 10.
There will be some redundancies made across different teams at Greenfields.
11.
If some positions become vacant, we will not automatically replace them and will review whether they are still required.
There is no doubt that we are in challenging times and we have to respond to the circumstances we face. I want to reassure you that as our residents, you remain our top priority; we want to continue to deliver excellent service and we continue to want to hear your views, suggestions and comments. Above all, we want you to feel safe and happy in your homes. Kindest regards,
Phil Adams Chief Executive
Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
How you can help us save money 1. Did you know that when we arrange to visit you and we are unable to gain access for any reason, it costs around £50 each time? There are over 1,100 instances of this each year, costing around £50,000. Please help us to reduce these costs by giving us enough notice to cancel and/or rearrange your appointment if you can’t be there to let us into your home. 2. Did you know that how you pay your rent affects our costs? For example, if you pay by direct debit, it costs us around 5p per transaction. But if you pay by credit card, it costs us around £4 per transaction! Here is a breakdown of payment options and their costs per transaction.
Direct debit = 5p Standing Order = 9p Online banking = 9p Cheque = 15p Paypoint = 41p Post Office = 46p Allpay (with debit card) = 59p Allpay (with credit card) = £4
If you would like to help us save money by changing how you pay your rent, please contact our Income Management Team on 01376 535400.
Beware of sharks In October, we teamed up with local organisations - including Braintree District Council and Holdfast Credit Union - to run Loan Shark Awareness Week, to raise awareness of the perils of illegal moneylenders, or ‘loan sharks.’ Several events took place throughout the week to help people to manage their money better and to report crime in confidence if they have been a victim of illegal money-lenders. The England Illegal Money Lending Team tells us that loan sharks operate illegally, without the correct permissions from the Financial Conduct Authority. These criminals usually appear friendly at first but quickly trap their borrowers into spiralling debt.
As the debts can’t legally be enforced, many lenders will resort to the most extreme and callous methods to enforce repayment, including threats, violence and intimidation. Paperwork is rarely offered so victims are often in the dark as to how much they are actually paying. In some cases the loan sharks have been known to take items as security, including passports, driving licences or even bank or post office cards with the PIN number, in order to withdraw directly from borrowers’ accounts. And exorbitant extra amounts and interest are added at random; with the highest interest seen by an illegal lender being equivalent to 131,000% APR! To report a crime in confidence, please call 0300 555 2222. You can also call our Income Team on 01376 535400 for advice.
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Universal Credit: What’s the story? What is it? Universal Credit (UC) is a new benefit that replaces these six existing benefits with a single monthly payment: 1. Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance 2. Income-related Employment & Support Allowance 3. Income Support 4. Working Tax Credit 5. Child Tax Credit 6. Housing Benefit
When did it happen? UC was launched in the Braintree District on 5 October this year. Initially, this is for new claimants only, and is likely to only affect you if you are single and of “working age.”
How much will I receive? How much you will receive will depend on your personal circumstances.
How will I get paid? UC is paid monthly into your bank, building society or Post Office account. This includes any financial help you receive to pay your rent (previously Housing Benefit), and you will need to pay your full rent directly to Greenfields yourself. If you don’t, you may lose your home. Your first claim will take at least six weeks to process. Following your first payment, you will receive future payments on the same date each month.
What’s in it for me? UC could increase your income should you start a new job or work more hours at an existing one. It will also enable you to manage your own money.
How much can I work? There are no limits as to the number of hours you can work. Your Universal Credit payment will reduce gradually as you earn more.
What do I need to do? Please contact our Income Team at Greenfields immediately on 01376 535400 if you apply for UC, as it is important that we are aware and we may be able to provide assistance with your application.
If you would like any more information about UC or any other benefits, please visit: www.gov.uk/universal-credit You can also contact our Welfare Benefits Service on 01376 535400, email Benefit.Advisors@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk, or visit www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/benefits-advice
Need help with the cost of Christmas? Holdfast Credit Union, based in Witham, has a Christmas Savers Scheme to help you to afford a better Christmas. “Mrs Smith” saved £20 per month for 10 months, and by November, she had £200 in her Holdfast account. She could have taken her savings out, but instead she chose to take up the offer of a “Christmas loan” for up to twice her savings i.e. £400. Repayments were less than £9 per week over the next 12 months (including the interest payment which is 2% per month/APR 26.7%). To find out more about this and other saving schemes, please contact Holdfast Credit Union.
T: 01376 516994 E: holdfastcreditunion@yahoo.co.uk W: www.holdfastcreditunion.co.uk Visit: The Centre, Newland Street, Witham Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
What’s been happening out there?
Exercise from your chair To tie in with September’s National Pain Awareness Month, we launched a new, weekly chair-based exercise (CBE) class at Witham Leisure Centre with a free event on Friday 25 September 2015. The weekly class is every Friday at 2-3pm. The event included a CBE taster session, a presentation by Provide (who provide NHS services) on Falls Prevention, an NHS health check and light refreshments. Chair-based exercise is a programme of prescribed, adaptable exercises, led by qualified Health Trainers. It is particularly beneficial to older people who may have longterm health conditions or mobility issues, but Greenfields’ programme is available free-of-charge to anyone aged over 18 years-old. Classes are designed to be fun and informal. Call 01376 535400 to find out more.
It’s a “YES” to 31 new homes We are pleased to have obtained planning permission to build 31 homes on Forest Road in Witham. Work is expected to begin by the end of 2015 and to be complete by the end of 2016. We have already completed 36 homes in Coggeshall, 15 homes in Witham, 11 in Thaxted, eight in Sible Hedingham, seven in Rayne, six in Stisted, five in Hatfield Peverel, five in Great Bardfield, four in Halstead and two in Feering. Page 8
Greenfields goes ghoulish We had great fun scooping out pumpkins and shaping them into scary faces at our Pumpkin sculpting event at Glebe Hall in Braintree in October. Thanks to everyone who came along to our truly terrifying event.
Being in a bubble Sisters were doing it for themselves at Braintree Leisure Centre on Thursday 27 August, when they slipped into a ‘bubble suit’ and played a very lively game of bubble football, the new craze that is sweeping the nation!
School workshops raise awareness of bullying and knife-crime For the second year running we have been visiting local schools with Essex Police to hold crime-awareness workshops for pupils as part of our ‘Think Safe, Be Safe’ campaign. The interactive workshops include Weapons Awareness, Internet Safety and Street Safety, and were carried out at nine schools in the Braintree District. A pupil from Notley Green School found the workshops really useful: “My favourite part was when we heard the stories from real people and how crime has affected their families. The day makes you think what you would do if you were in their shoes. And if you talk to strangers online it is exactly the same as in the real world but worse, because you can’t see them.”
James Martin, our Positive Engagement Co-ordinator, said: “We organise lots of activities to keep young people busy and increase their skills and confidence. Plenty of men take part; but there are fewer ladies, so it was great to see women taking part and enjoying sports together.”
Taking action on flats in Witham The transformation of Fortis and Barwell House flats in Witham is now complete. The changes, which began last year, were carried out in consultation with residents and included removing paving slabs, overgrown bushes, and metal fencing; and replacing them with a block-paved drying area, a grassed area for picnic tables, new timber fencing and new bin stores.
Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
Noticeboard Merry s Christma ! Everybody xx
Christmas Opening Hours Our offices will close at 12.30pm on Thursday 24 December 2015 and re-open on Monday 4 January 2016 at 8.30am. During this time you can report emergency repairs and anti-social behaviour 24 hours a day by calling 01376 535400 or FREEPHONE 0800 9706050 (not free from mobiles).
Did yo that u know yo ‘opt o u can non-e ut’ of ss post ential Greenfifrom e Just lds? call 01376 53540 0
Our Performance Jul-Sept 2015 Follow us @Green fieldsC H @Green fieldsj obs
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To imp rove h ow we co mmunic ate with yo u, we m ay be asking for yo ur ema addres il s when y o u conta ct us. Thank s, in a dvance .
Description
Target
Actual Indicator
Complaints resolved within target time
100%
100%
Green
Inbound calls resolved right first time
85%
86.7%
Green
Amount of rent arrears
2.62%
2.46%
Green
Homes not meeting the 0% 0% Green ‘Decent Homes Standard’ Average time to complete 10 weeks 5 weeks Green a major aid or adaptation
Everyone’s a winner! Getting into the spirit It was great to meet the winners of our Community Spirit Awards at our Annual General Meeting in September. Andrew Wiseman, from Sible Hedingham, and Conor Kent, from Halstead, were the proud winners of the Young Achiever category. Both volunteer for our Positive Engagement Programme, which encourages young people to increase their skills and find employment. Andrew and Conor have been working with others to transform the gardens of residents who are unable to do so themselves; due to disabilities, mental health problems or age. Congratulations to Gemma Frost, from Maplestead, who won the Good Neighbour award for leading the local Christmas Present Appeal. Gemma believes that no one should feel alone on Christmas Day, so, every year, she arranges for presents to be donated, collected and delivered to those who don’t have company on Christmas Day. Well done to everyone nominated; you should be proud.
Love2shop vouchers for entering our prize draw.
Scary skills rewarded Tegan and Kacey’s ghoulishly-good colouring abilities were recognised in our recent ‘colour and name the scarecrow’ Halloween competition. Tegan won the 4-8-year-old category; naming her scarecrow ‘Pumpkin Face’ and Kacey won the 9-13-yearold category; naming her scarecrow ‘Smokey Jack Splat’. Well done girls – your efforts were eerily excellent.
Prize-draw winners Thank you to everyone who responded to our ‘Help us to help you’ survey, where we asked about your internet skills and if you would like to learn more about going online. You can find out more about our ‘Be Connected’ campaign on page 16. In the meantime, well done to Thomas from Kelvedon, Christel from Coggeshall and Constance from Bocking, who have all won
Congratulations to Christine Hagger, Barbara Adams and their neighbours for the work they’ve done together to transform their communal garden. Alfie Adams, Barbara’s husband, said: “Before Christine and Barbara took over the management of the garden with our neighbours’ help, it resembled a burial ground – all dirt and no flowers. In the last year, they have turned it into something great.” Basil Flegg, from Coggeshall, won Runner Up in the Best Garden category. The winner of the Best Pots and Tubs category was Eric Root, from Earls Colne; and the Runner Up for the same category was Melissa Cullum, from Witham. If you have an interest in gardening, take a look at Mr Greenfinger’s Guide to gardening on page 24. You can also get involved in a community gardening project (edible estate) in your area. To find out more, please contact Rikki Burt on Rikki.Burt@GreenfieldsCH. org.uk or 01376 535400 ext. 4196. Greenfields’ offices are collection points for the Christmas Present Appeal. Please call 01376 535400 to find out more, and you can donate until 11 December 2015.
Residents bloomin’ happy A group of lovely ladies from The Manors scheme in Silver End are delighted to have won first prize in our Annual Gardening Competition for their fabulous flower displays. Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
K
What gift?
Tea break
What’s in the wrapping paper?
1.__________________ CLUE: Not so cuddly
Find the sock that has no pair 2.__________________ CLUE: Panthera leo
3.__________________ CLUE: Flightless
4.__________________ CLUE: Keratin nose
5.__________________ CLUE: Tallest
Who am I?
A
B
Riddle me this:
C
?
What’s full of holes but can still hold water? Page 12
All the answers to this edition’s tea break can be found on page 26.
Kids Corner
Kids Corner
Calling all cake-makers!
If you are aged 13 & under and you like getting in that kitchen and rustling up tasty treats, we want to see the evidence! Send us in a pic of you and your delicious Christmas-themed cakes and bakes to competition@ GreenfieldsCH.org.uk and we will print a selection of the best ones. Don’t worry; you don’t have to share them with us if you really don’t want to…
Kids Corner
Kids Corner
Art competition: Seeing in the spring-time We would like any budding artists out there to send us in a drawing or painting that celebrates the beginning of spring. Think baby lambs, sunflowers, sunshine breaking through the clouds – your imagination is your only limit! Please send in your entries by the end of February 2016 to: Amanda Bhavnani, Greenfields Community Housing, Guithavon House, Witham, Essex, CM8 1BJ. Gateway to Greenfields | Autumn 2015
CHELSEY JAY
MY STORY:
“Please include disabled models as standard� Chelsey Jay is a friendly, funny and energetic 24-year-old Greenfields resident from Witham. Four years ago she was working as a Healthcare Assistant at Broomfield Hospital when her life was dramatically altered forever. Mid-shift, Chelsey passed out and completely lost the ability to stand and walk around without becoming unconscious.
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Chelsey, who is now a wheelchair-user (otherwise known as her “sweet ride”), is now part of Models of Diversity, a national group who are campaigning for more diversity within the modelling industry. Chelsey’s specific aim is for one out of six models to be disabled; reflecting the true proportion of disabled people in the UK. “Before I lost the ability to stand and walk around normally, I had always danced, been a gym goer, put together a modelling portfolio, and had just begun my dream job as a Healthcare Assistant. At first, no one knew what my condition was, and it’s only because of Priti Patel MP’s help that I was able to get a diagnosis of having Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), within a year. “It is a complicated condition, as everyone differs in their symptoms and which treatment works for them. For example, I can walk for 24 hours after being in a swimming pool or on an aeroplane (because the pressure from water and air makes my blood flow correctly) but I wake up debilitated again the next morning. I am yet to find
another ‘Potsie’ that has this same experience.
be about including them in standard photoshoots. I also took part in a bridal catwalk fashion show, which was great. They gave me a gorgeous pale yellow dress that was flattering for someone sitting down, and I felt part of the show, rather than a ‘token!’”
“Once diagnosed with POTS, I went online and found lots of people with the condition. Most of them are from America, as the condition seems to be better known and diagnosed earlier. I then posted videos about my experience of having Chelsey says that her the condition, and Caters campaign is now starting News Agency saw them and to see results. “From helped me to get my story September to December “out there” 2014 my main role was to - including an appearance rally The Clothes Show Live on Sky News! Angel, from to use disabled models. Models of Diversity (MOD), This year, they are casting then got in touch, and I am disabled models!” now working with them to raise But there is still They gave awareness a way to go. of my In order for me a gorgeous campaign, Chelsey’s pale yellow dress which is that was flattering for campaign for the someone sitting down, to be taken modelling seriously and I felt part of the industry to by the show, rather than a Government, employ 1 in “token!” 6 models who she needs have a disability, 100,000 to reflect the rest of signatures on the population. her online petition by March. So far, she has Working with MOD led to less than 1,000. You can me doing a photo-shoot help by visiting https:// called “Real People” for a petition.parliament.uk/ famous brand, featuring lots petitions/109259 and of diverse models. However, I adding your signature. felt the shoot didn’t meet the objectives of my campaign, Chelsey’s next mission is as it shouldn’t be about to have a show at London making an example of people Fashion Week which features with disabilities; it should models with a disability in
amongst all other types of model, and to “be part of the movement that changes fashion history.” In the future, not only does she want her campaign to achieve its aims, but she also wants to have her own comedy sitcom, with a disabled woman as the central character. She says: “People don’t realise that disabled people can get themselves into all sorts of funny situations. For example, when myself and a disabled friend wanted to get a spray tan, we had to put tarpaulin on the living room floor, lie down and spray each other! Not to mention the fun and games to be had at the selfservice check-out in shops, where you only have a very limited amount of time to get from one side of the till to the other, several times over!”
How you can help Find out more about Chelsey’s inspiring campaign by visiting: www.chelseyjay.co.uk or visiting Youtube and entering her name into the search box. You can also follow her on twitter @chelseyjay but, more importantly, support her by adding your name to her petition at https:// petition.parliament.uk/ petitions/109259
Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
Is this you? “I don’t know where to start when it comes to computers.” “I feel left behind, as I don’t know how to get online.” “I don’t know what ‘dot.com’ means or when mice started ‘clicking’!” We are giving you all the opportunity to become confident in ‘logging on’ to the internet, whether it’s through your computer, tablet, Smartphone or something else (don’t worry if you don’t know what a Smartphone is – that’s what we’re here for!) Being online can help you to get discounts on services, such as insurance, to do your shopping, to keep in touch with friends and relatives, to find out
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what’s happening in your community, and so much more! There are several ways we can help you to get online or increase your skills: 1) Come along to a drop-in session at our offices or older persons’ schemes 2) Visit www.GreenfieldsCH. org.uk/computerguides-2015 to learn many basic skills, such as how to use a mouse and send an email 3) Take part in our “skill swap” scheme (read more later in this article). One resident who has been attending our drop-in sessions, said: “Since attending the sessions, I have learnt how to email my friends and family, see where my lifelong penfriends live by using Google Maps and, at our next session, I am going to learn how to Skype my
son in Australia. I never thought I would be able to do any of these things – I am so proud and can’t thank Val and Greenfields’ Digi-Pals enough.” We have just launched our “skill swap” scheme, where school children teach older residents about the many benefits of being online and, in turn, our older residents teach them a thing or two about what they have learnt over the years – whether it’s gardening, baking, cooking or a wide range of other things! Sessions take part in our older persons’ schemes, and, who knows, you may even get a nice cup of tea and a piece of cake. If you would like your school to take part, or you are a resident who would like to get involved, please contact Val Thompstone at Greenfields on 01376 535400 ext. 5678, for a chat.
Being a Digi-Pal By Charlotte Ross - a Greenfields Customer Service Advisor
“In September 2015, I attended a Be Connected workshop at Western House older persons’ scheme in Kelvedon. On arrival I see Mr P approaching. Mr P is 84 years old, and has been coming along to the sessions from the beginning. At our last session we set him up with his own email account. He can’t wait to ask me if I got the message he left at Greenfields’ reception for me. The message was to let me know his daughter in Spain received his email. I said I did, but I will give him my email address and next time he can email me the message. We have a “newbie” this week, Mr B; he has brought along his own tablet, he explains to the group that his granddaughter gave it to him and he doesn’t know how to use it. He wants to learn how to use the communal computer in the scheme first, as he feels this will give him more confidence to use the tablet. We chat about what we would like to cover in today’s two-hour session. We decide to do some “online browsing” as a member of the group is intrigued how her son manages to buy her favourite soap online (the High Street shops have stopped stocking it). It’s a perfect opportunity to personalise the learning. We start a Google search on the device of our choice (laptop, iPad etc.). We find various websites offering the brand, and we compare the prices. Mrs G is overjoyed; we have managed to source the soap at a cheaper price than her relative could. These moments are priceless; Mrs G is completely empowered, and you can tell she can’t wait to share the information she has gathered today with her relative.
It’s now time for Mr B to get to grips with the communal lounge computer. He gets comfy in the computer chair, and once he familiarises himself with the start-up menu and has been given a few words of encouragement, he is reading news headlines from around the world. Mrs P passes me a piece of paper, which has an address of her pen friend in Australia. There are gasps of amazement when, after a little bit of coaching, and with the aid of Street View (a website), Mrs P has a picture of her friend’s house on the screen. She explains how she was lucky enough to visit Australia many years ago, and you can see in her eyes how the memories of the visit come flooding back. Our session comes to a close. Everyone is reminding themselves of what they need to do before we next meet. I know today’s session is just scratching the surface, and more questions and ideas are brewing. I thoroughly recommend being a DigiPal; all you need is a small amount of personal computer knowledge, and masses of patience. I have been able to show what the internet can offer, and in return I have enjoyed the company of people who want to learn a new skill, and don’t mind challenging their comfort zone. I feel that DigiPals have an amazing opportunity to connect, educate empower people, and more.”
Have you visited our portal? Did you know that you can create an online account that allows you to view your rent account, see your repairs history, report anti-social behaviour, update personal details, send us a message and more? And soon, you will be able to book your own repairs appointment and select a convenient time slot. It’s free and easy to set up an account in our ‘Self-service Portal’, and it means you don’t have to waste time calling or visiting us. Here’s how: 1. Visit our website www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk 2. Click on the ‘Self-service Portal’ button, via the home page 3. Click on the ‘New User’ button 4. Select ‘Yes’ under ‘Are you known to the organisation?’ 5. Fill out the details, which includes your name, date of birth and tenancy number (please contact us if you don’t know this number) 6. Click ‘Register’ 7. We will then send you a letter with your ‘Unique Verification Code’ 8. Please re-visit the portal and follow the easy steps to access your full account.
Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
In their own words Ian Marshall,
Greenfields tenant and Vice Chair of the Community Gateway Group
“A 1% rent reduction for the next four years - instead of the usual increase - is not to be sniffed at. Good news for some. As they say “every little helps!” However, as far as I see it, the main aim of the rent reductions (see “A letter from Phil” on page 4 to find out more) from the Government is to reduce the cost of Welfare, rather than to help the tenants. You will read elsewhere of the various measures which will have to be taken by Greenfields to accommodate the millions of pounds of predicted income which
Your resident representatives volunteer in a wide variety of roles to help to make decisions about your homes, neighbourhoods and housing service.
will not now materialise. Residents of the Community Gateway Group and Area Forums have been involved in consultation with Greenfields’ managers; trying to ensure that services to residents will not be affected too much. Changes will be made, including putting the remodelling of more older persons’ schemes on hold, and discontinuing the Community Fund. None of these measures are ideal, but it is important that the core business, such as doing repairs, building homes and providing excellent customer service, are maintained. I believe that, by working together as we always have, we will meet any challenges that lie ahead.”
In September, we gained a new tenant Board member, and three tenants joined our Community Gateway Group (CGG). Let’s find out a bit about them…
Andrea Barr, Board member “I have been a Greenfields tenant for over three and a half years, and I feel it’s time to offer Greenfields whatever skills they wish to make use of. I live in an adapted bungalow in Hatfield Peverel. I have multiple sclerosis and I am out in Hatfield Peverel quite often on my scooter, with my two whippets trotting alongside. I sing in St Andrews Church choir and attend regular church socials. I also attend Riding for Disabled. I have previously worked as a Company Secretary, a PA, a Treasurer and a Communications Officer.”
Page 18
Henry Watts, CGG member
“I have been a Greenfields resident for over four years. I have been married for three years. My interests include rebuilding cars and gardening. I have been a member of Greenfields’ Witham Area Forum for three years.”
Paul Benjamin, Board member “I am 71 years old (just) and have been a Gerenfields tenant residing in Tom Davies House in Braintree for the past 32 months. I worked continuously from leaving school in 1959 for the next 52 years. My working life has given me the opportunity to gain considerable experience in man management, health and safety, corporate financial transactions, stock control and many other areas.
I was elected to the CGG in 2014 and have gained considerable knowledge from that and being a member of Greenfields’ various Working Groups (Neighbourhoods, Property Services, Elections and Membership, Support and Wellbeing and Value for Money). It is my belief that through genuine discussion and total honesty, Greenfields will go forward and continue to maintain the full support of the people it represents.”
Ken Davies, CGG member “I have been a resident in Witham since 1972. I have qualifications in Business Studies and Education and taught Accountancy, Business Education and Mathematics for 25 years until my retirement. I am Chair of a residents’ group, Humber Road Estate Community Initiative; Treasurer of Witham Tree Group and have been Chair of Greenfields’ Witham Area Forum.
I have also served on numerous wideranging Greenfields committees, such as Value for Money and Empowerment. I feel that the Gateway model of governance for Greenfields is an excellent one and is the way that tenants can fully express their views on matters concerning both the overall running of Greenfields and the day to day matters which concern them.”
Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
Staying safe and warm this winter
Take control of your home’s temperature • Check that your gas/oil or solid fuel boiler is working by testing for two hours • Keep the cold out with effective draught-proofing and keeping the heating on a low temperature overnight e.g. 15-17 degrees Celsius • Set your room thermostat to suit your own requirements (usually between 16 and 23 degrees Celsius) • If you have electric heating, ensure the controls are set for night storage heaters • Don’t block radiators • Don’t block air bricks and room vents.
Waterworks • Isolate water supplies to outside toilets, outhouses and sheds, using the service valves to shut off the water. • Open all the taps and flush the toilet to empty the cistern, as these are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Where this is not possible, ensure that the pipe work is lagged • Report any dripping taps or overflows • Find the internal stopcock and check that it is working. This can usually be found under the kitchen sink, in a downstairs bathroom, in a cloakroom or in a brick outbuilding. Some homes may have more than one water supply.
e
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Need a hand over the winter? Do you have someone that you can call for a little extra help when the weather gets bad? It may be that you live alone or don’t have any neighbours to keep an eye on you and help you with shopping or picking up prescriptions. We have a list of residents that may need this additional help from time to time. If the weather is bad, such as snowing over a few days, we can call you to check that you’re OK and that you’re keeping warm and have plenty of supplies in. If we can’t get hold of you on the phone, we’ll call round or contact a relative or the emergency services for you. If you, or someone you know, might benefit from our Extreme Weather Phone-Around, please contact your Neighbourhood Coordinator on 01376 535400.
Controlling condensation in your home Condensation in your home is caused by excessive moisture, which can lead to mildew and mould growth if not treated. Contributing factors to condensation can be too much moisture being produced in your home, not enough ventilation, excessive cold surfaces and the temperature being too low. It is important that steps are taken in all our homes to prevent the causes of condensation so that mould doesn’t form. There are simple things you can do straight away to help stop the build-up: • Set heating to a constant temperature of between 16 and 21 degrees Celsius, which should also save money on your heating bill • Ventilate your home by ensuring that trickle vents, where fitted, are open and regularly cleaned • Dry your windows and windowsills every morning, as well as surfaces in the kitchen or bathroom that have may become wet • Don’t dry wet clothing on a radiator • If you use a tumble dryer and extract hose through an open window, ensure that the end of the flexible hose is at least 200mm below the external windowsill to prevent the warm air blowing back into your home • Don’t cook or use the bathroom with internal doors open; and either put the extractor fan on or open the window • After cooking, leave the window securely open and leave the extractor fan running to allow moisture to escape. Carefully clear the face of the extractor fan (once it has been switched off) on a regular basis with a duster or dry brush • Try not to allow liquids to boil in open pans • If you have mould in your home you should wipe down or spray walls & window frames with a fungicidal wash that carries a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) ‘approval number’ and ensure that you follow the instructions for its safe use. To find out more about preventing damp and condensation, download our Controlling Condensation In Your Home leaflet from www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/leaflets, pick one up from our offices or call 01376 535400.
Getting gritty During the winter months, our contractor, Sodexo, grits areas around our older persons’ schemes. Each scheme is provided with a map showing where the gritting will be done. We will only start gritting when the weather forecast states that the temperature will reach -2°C for a period of three hours or more (Met Office forecasts used). We don’t grit any other areas, although we endeavour to fill our grit bins around the district; enabling you to grit areas yourself, should you wish to do so.
Cover your contents Are your furniture and belongings insured against theft, fire, flooding, burst pipes, vandalism or other risks? If the worst were to happen, would you be able to replace your furniture, electrical goods – such as your TV – or your personal items, such as clothes, jewellery and ornaments? We highly recommend that you take out home contents insurance, to cover you. My Home Contents Insurance offers discounted premiums for tenants. Find out more by calling 0345 450 7288, emailing myhome@thistleinsurance.co.uk or visiting
www.thistlemyhome.co.uk
Get a warm welcome from Age Concern We all know we get out of life what we put in. With that in mind, would you like to: • • • • •
Make new friends? Meet interesting people? Have coffee or lunch in a nice environment? Enjoy occasional entertainment and outings? Play games or just chat with likeminded people?
There’ll always be a warm welcome for you at Age Concern, Witham.
Mondays: Drop-in and Luncheon Club
10am to 1.15pm Town Hall function room, 61 Newland Street, Witham, CM8 2FE
Wednesdays: Drop-in 10am to 12pm Methodist Chapel, Guithavon Street, Witham, CM7 1BJ Call: 01376 502996 to find out more.
Gateway to Greenfields | Autumn/Winter 2014
Did you know…?
On average, we receive 3 times as many compliments as complaints
Ever considered giving blood? Donated blood is a lifeline for many people needing long-term treatments; and not just in emergencies. Your blood’s main components: red cells, plasma and platelets, are vital for many different uses. Red cells are used predominantly in treatments for cancer and blood diseases, as well as for treating anaemia and in surgeries for transplants and burns. Plasma provides proteins, nutrients and a clotting agent that is vital to stop bleeding - it is the most versatile component of your blood. Platelets are tiny cells used to help patients at a high risk of bleeding. They also contribute to the repair of damaged body tissue.
12 out of 18 people who have been in the ‘Green Team’ (a pre-apprenticeship programme we funded in partnership with the Council) are now employed
Debbie Higgins, a Customer Service Advisor at Greenfields, knows only too well how donations can save lives. Debbie’s husband, Shane, was diagnosed with Myelofibrosis, a rare bone marrow cancer, in 2013, and then with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia in June this year. At the time of printing, Shane has spent 20 weeks in hospital, receiving intensive chemotherapy treatment which included up to two blood and platelet transfusions a day. He has also just received a stem cell transplant from his brother; designed to regenerate the bone marrow, which was empty due to both the Myelofibrosis and cancer treatment. Debbie says: “Shane’s brother didn’t realise that, by donating, he was saving a life, until a nurse pointed it out to him. It is amazing to think that there are those who donate for people they don’t even know. And if you give blood regularly, losing that short amount of time can make such a difference. “Donating stem cells is painless and similar to giving blood – although you do require some additional injections and a bit of aftercare. But it’s so worth it as you could save a life. I feel like all my Christmases have come at once since Shane has had the transplant.”
We’ve spent £50,000 on ‘environmental improvements’ since March Page 22
If you would like to find out more about giving blood: visit www.blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23. If you would like to find out more about donating bone marrow or stem cells, visit www.anthonynolan.org or call 0303 303 0303.
Domestic abuse includes a range of behaviours: physical, psychological, sexual or financial abuse. It happens within intimate relationships, as well as between family members. Despite the harm domestic abuse causes, victims often struggle to acknowledge and disclose what’s happening to them and seek support. They face complex personal and practical barriers to admitting abuse and accessing help, as their lives are often intricately intertwined - in terms of emotions, networks and resources - with that of the abuser.
The Citizen’s Advice Bureau has produced a report called ‘A link In The Chain’, which explains about barriers preventing victims speaking up about abuse, how those who want to help can do so and be supported themselves, and how both victims and supporters can be helped once the abuse is disclosed.
Friends and family can be a key link in the chain to leaving abuse behind, as these are the individuals most likely to be aware of abuse early on. Informal networks can offer help by encouraging victims to reach out to specialist services or the police (acting as a conduit), or by offering practical and emotional aid themselves (supporter), from bolstering self-esteem to providing somewhere to stay.
You can read the report by visiting: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/a-link-in-the-chain
However, informal networks face complex barriers to engaging: they may struggle to recognise abuse, and feel ill-equipped to intervene, fearful of causing problems or nervous about intruding.
If you, or someone you know, is a victim of domestic abuse, call Essex Police’s emergency number: 999; or their non-emergency number: 101. You can also call us on 01376 535400 and we will listen to you and let you know who you can contact to get the right help and support. You can also visit www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/domestic-abuse This article contain extracts from: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/a-link-inthe-chain/
Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
Don’t forget to take time out to reflect what has been a success or what did not go so well in the past year. Study the new seed catalogues and plan for the forthcoming spring. Remember that if space permits on your vegetable plot, crop rotation really does help with the growing process. If conditions allow, you can plant your shallots and sow early broad beans. Even during cold and frosty February, many vegetables can be started under frames or cloches, including brussel sprouts, cabbages, cauliflowers, lettuce and leeks; to name a few. If you are successful and have excess stored crops of squash, shallots or onions, just keep a regular check on them and discard any that show signs of rot or fly. A small pot of chives or any other herbs potted up and placed on the window-sill will have sufficient growth to flavour a few dishes. Most of all, enjoy, and look forward to the new growing season. I know I am!
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MR RS E G
EEN-FI N GR
You can improve your lawn with a simple process of piercing the surface with a fork at six-inch intervals. You can also improve messy and worn edges by just rotating the turf.
MR
Now we are in the winter months a lot of work comes to a standstill. But, weather-permitting, you can still dig the vegetable plot. This is very beneficial for the ground and is also good exercise for you!
RS GE
Mr Green-fingers’ guide to gardening!
EEN-FI N GR
Seven steps to fall prevention There are many things that may increase your chance of losing balance, feeling dizzy and falling over. Follow the advice to reduce your risk of falling and to help keep you safe.
1.
Toilet
• If you require frequent visits to the toilet, ensure facilities are nearby and pre-empt visits to give yourself plenty of time to get there.
2.
Urine
• A urine infection may make you feel dizzy and confused. Contact your GP if this is the case, and make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
3.
Medication & mobility
• Many common medications may increase your risk of having a fall. Ask your pharmacist about the effects they can have and any precautions you should take • If you use equipment like a walking stick or frame, make sure it is regularly maintained. •
4.
Beds, bells & blood
5.
Lighting
• Poor lighting is often the cause of a fall. Make sure there is enough lighting to help you move safely from one place to another.
6.
Eyesight & exercise
• Regular eye-checks are important. You can do simple checks yourself to determine if your eyesight is deteriorating e.g. can you identify a pen, key and a pair of scissors from a certain distance? • Increasing your activity will help your mobility • Regular exercise is good for you and may improve your balance as well as strengthen your muscles. Have you considered coming to a free Greenfields chair-based exercise class? Find out more on page 8.
7.
Slippers & shoes
• Poorly fitting footwear will increase your risk of falling.
pressure
• If your bed is too high or too low, or your mattress is too soft, it will be difficult for you to get in and out of and you may fall • Don’t rush to answer the doorbell • Blood pressure can change suddenly from when you are lying down then moving to sitting or standing. Move slowly when going from one to the other to avoid feeling dizzy or sick.
Extract from the ‘TUMBLES’ leaflet by the NHS and Essex County Council. To read the full leaflet, visit: www.neessexccg.nhs.uk. You can also call 01206 286500 or email NEECCG. enquiries@nhs.net to get copies of the leaflet or find out more about falls prevention.
Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
Know your Board...
Paul Benjamin
About you
• I’m a Tenant Board member, elected at this year’s AGM • I previously served on Greenfields’ Community Gateway Group • My day consists of reading the emails from Greenfields and attending any meetings or training courses I’ve been selected for • My background in business goes back to 1959 and has included owning my own business with everything that entails.
What’s good about Greenfields?
• Greenfields offers an excellent service and makes sure that tenants are kept as involved as much as
possible. I wanted to get involved personally with the company to give back something to them for giving me a lot of help when I moved in as a tenant nearly 3 years ago.
Why are you involved with Greenfields? • My aim is to serve Greenfields and the tenants to the best of my ability.
How would you describe your perfect day?
• My ideal day would consist of a flying visit to Inverness and the Highlands of Scotland. Breath-taking
scenery and lovely fresh air. Breakfast, lunch and dinner at one of the many restaurants and hotels in the area.
Tea Break Answers Find the sock that has no pair: Who am I?
A: Will Smith B: Marilyn Monroe C: Tom Hanks Page 26
What gift?
1. Helicopter 2. Kettle 3. Ring 4. Barrow 5. Lamp
Riddle me this: A Sponge
Translations FRENCH Passerelle pour le bulletin de Greenfields Pour une traduction, composez 01376 535400
LITHUANIAN Gateway to Greenfields naujienlaiškis Dėl vertimo skambinkite numeriu 01376 535400
MANDARIN 获取 Greenfields 新闻通讯 翻译请拨 01376 535400
POLISH Biuletyn Gateway to Greenfields W celu uzyskania tłumaczenia, proszę zadzwonić pod numer 01376 535400
PORTUGUESE Boletim informativo “Gateway to Greenfields” (Porta para a Greenfields) Caso pretenda uma tradução, ligue para o 01376 535400
SPANISH Boletín informativo Gateway to Greenfields (Puerta a Greenfields) Para obtener una traducción llame al 01376 535400
URDU
رٹیلزوین زڈلیف نیرگ وٹ ےو ٹیگ ںیرک نوف رپ سا ےیل ےک ہمجرت 01376 535400
Please Note This newsletter can be made available in larger print, in Braille, on audio CD or in an alternative language by calling
01376 535400
www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk This magazine is printed on 100% recycled paper
Gateway to Greenfields | Christmas 2015
G2G Formerly Gateway to Greenfields
Merry Christmas from all at Greenfields
Telephone: 01376 535400 Email: csc@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk Website: www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk Head Office: Greenfields Community Housing Ltd Greenfields House, Charter Way, Braintree, Essex CM77 8FG @GreenfieldsCH