G2G
Spring / Summer 2016
Formerly Gateway to Greenfields
Self Service Portal Service at the touch of a button
PAGE 8
Fire Prevention Protect people in your home
PAGE 16
Greenfields
Gardening
Competition 2016
Governance Changes Your vote counts!
PAGE 21
PAGE 30
Contents P3 P4 P6 P6 P7 P8 P10 P10 P11 P12 P13 P14 P16 P18 P19 P20 P21 P24 P26 P27 P28 P30 P31 P32 P33 P34 P35
National changes in housing: an update What’s been happening out there? Employment Minister meets our apprentices New homes news Universal Credit: are you prepared? Try out self-service portal Improving ways to keep in touch Donate or buy low-cost household items Charity round-up Tea Break Kid’s Corner Noticeboard Fire prevention: protect people in your home My story: Andrew Wiseman My story: Jean Turner Want to make changes for the better? Governance changes: Your vote counts! Be Connected: get online Child Sexual Exploitation: don’t stand for it Injunctions abtained to protect abused residents. Safeguarding – are you concerned? Got green fingers? Enter our competition Have you heard? Spotlight on: The Customer Services Team Tea Break answers In their own words Working together
Find the flower!
We’ve hidden 10 Greenfields flowers throught the newsletter. Can you find them? Page 2
A welcome from the editor “There is no denying that we live in a digital age; with more and more people going online and benefiting from accessing a wide range of information and services. For some, this may feel like a scary prospect, which is why we are offering you the opportunity to learn more about getting online through our free ‘Be Connected’ project. You never know - you could go from using a computer for the first time to “Skyping” your mates in a matter of minutes! Once you are online you can use our self-service portal, which is available free, through our website homepage and allows you to report repairs & make your own appointments, check your repairs history & rent account and so much more at the touch of a button. We also have a new text-only number: 07860 024511. Save it in your phone today! For those of you who enjoy hearing stories about our residents’ lives, you can read about Jean, who suffered from agoraphobia for three years and even had difficulty walking around in her own home at one point; and Andrew, who went from being unemployed and drink and drugs dependent, to employed and far happier thanks to our volunteer programme. It’s heartwarming to hear how they both overcame the challenges they faced. We’ve also included articles about Universal Credit and how we’re making savings following the Government’s Summer Budget announcements. We know we have written about these subjects before, but they are really important issues for us all. See you next time.”
Amanda x
Amanda Bhavnani - Editor
Call: 01376 332473 Email: Amanda.Bhavnani@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk
National changes in housing: An update As I explained in the last issue of G2G, The Government’s summer budget announcements have significant implications for housing associations across the country, including Greenfields. The Government’s budget changes mean that we need to reduce our rents by 1% each year until 2020; resulting 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. We are committed to maintaining excellent services whilst saving money. To recap, here are just a few of the changes we are making, with a few updates from the last issue of G2G: Home • *NEW* Aside from emergency repairs, which are carried out within 24 hours, all responsive repairs are now carried out within 40 days (most repairs will be carried out well within this time). This allows us to plan repairs so that we can carry out several appointments in the same area, on the same day - saving time and money. Service • *NEW* Our Handyperson Service is now available to tenants for £10 per hour, for a maximum of two hours per year, regardless of financial circumstances. • We now have one office: Greenfields House in Braintree. You can visit us here or there are lots of other ways to contact us, including phone, text, email and via our website self-service portal: www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk Community • We are no longer carrying out Neighbourhood Action Plans (major improvements to specific areas). Instead, we are carrying out smaller improvements, such as installing benches and landscaping, which we feel will still improve and enhance the area People • We have reduced our staffing levels, where possible, which has unfortunately led to some redundancies. There is no doubt we are in challenging times and we have to respond to the circumstance 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 | Spring/Summer 2016
What’s been happening out there?
New chair-based exercise class launched Our free chair-based exercise (CBE) classes are proving to be hit across the District! With a new class launched at Braintree Leisure Centre in March, we now have nine classes in total at our older persons’ schemes and leisure centres in Braintree, Halstead, Witham and surrounding villages. CBE is a programme of prescribed, adaptable exercises, led by qualified Health Trainers. It is particularly beneficial for older people or those with long-term health conditions or mobility issues - but our fun and informal classes are open to anyone 18-years-old and over. To find out more, contact James Taylor, our Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator, on 01376 535400 ext. 5656 or James.Taylor@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk, or visit www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/health-wellbeing-services. There are also opportunities to help to lead classes. Page 4
Extending a hand We were very pleased to attend the opening of the community hall extension at Kelvedon Institute, which was funded by Greenfields and others. Designed to supplement the Institute, the hall extension provides an area to bring members of the community together for parties, meetings and rehearsals. Last year, our tradesmen got their brushes out and decorated the hall. Andrew Shortridge, Maintenance Operations Manager at Greenfields, said: “We really enjoyed doing the work and hope that lots of people benefit from it.”
Prize-winning pupils We’ve had some great opportunities to meet with students from local schools recently, and to present them with some well-deserved prizes. In January, Imogen Gardiner, an 11-year-old pupil at Elms Hall School in Witham, won a competition to name a road on our new 31-home housing development on the Forest Road Estate. Imogen chose ‘The Spinney’ because: “Spinney is a name for a very small forest. I think this would be a good name, as it’s linked to a forest but not tree names, like the older road names in the area. People will be able to tell it is new houses.”
Later that month, we also met with students from Ramsey Academy in Halstead to thank them all for volunteering to help some of our older residents “get online” as part of our Be Connected campaign (see page 24 to find out how we can help you). We also awarded prizes to three students for their essaywriting efforts describing their experiences of being involved in the project. Sholanda Baker, 15, said: “Overall it was an eyeopening experience of what we take for granted. I would love to carry on, as I’m enjoying it very much and developing as a person; learning more about the history of the world through their eyes.” It was great to be involved with a celebration event in February to mark the fourth Green Team passing the 12-week course with flying colours. The Green Team scheme is run by community charity, Groundwork, with funding from Braintree District Council and Greenfields. It aims to help young people increase their chances of employment through teaching them a range of construction, green space improvement and maintenance work.
Passing green for go!
This time, projects included the eight participants creating raised beds for a school and an older persons’ scheme; improving a new cycle path; doing conservation work at a community pond and improving an area outside shops. They also had the opportunity to get a City & Guilds qualification and Construction Skills certificate. They were inspired by our very own Matt Lawday, who went from having low self-esteem and being unemployed, to joining the Green Team, to becoming an apprentice with Greenfields, to becoming employed as a full-time Estate Ranger with Greenfields! Quite a journey! He said: “After joining the Green Team, I wanted to better myself and went on to get a full-time job at Greenfields. It’s great going home at the end of the day knowing you’ve made a difference to people’s lives.” Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
Employment Minister meets our apprentices Employment Minister, Priti Patel MP, visited our office in March to meet our apprentices – past and present – as part of National Apprenticeship Week. Priti spent some time meeting with a range of apprentices across the business; finding out about their experiences of working with us and what they want to do next. She also met with lots of former apprentices who are now permanently employed by Greenfields – 18 out of 22 people, in fact!
New homes news “Greenfields has been absolutely brilliant. We have a lovely, beautiful new home. It’s spacious and has everything that we need.” Since the last issue of G2G in December, we have completed new homes on the Coldnailhurst Avenue Estate in Braintree (including our first properties build specifically for disabled residents) Hillside Gardens in Braintree; Queens Gardens in Panfield; Dowches Drive in Kelvedon and Hallfield in Great Bardfield. We are currently in the process of building new homes on several developments across the district, including 31 on the Forest Road estate in Witham; 31 in Church Road and Thorne Road in Kelvedon and 12 in Chelmer Road in Braintree. In total, we have finished more than 100 new homes across the District since 2011.
Stephen Medhurst, 19-years-old, completed an NVQ Level 3 Administration Apprenticeship in 2015 whilst mentoring a Level 2 student. He is now employed full-time at Greenfields and studying for a BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying.
We also offer shared ownership properties on some of our developments, which include 15 on a development in Sudbury and 11 in Thaxted. Shared ownership, also known as ‘part-buy, part-rent’, involves buying an initial share in a new home that you can afford, helping you into home ownership in manageable stages. If you want to, you can increase your share over time as your circumstances change. You pay a subsidised rent on the remaining share that we still own. The combined monthly cost of mortgage and rent will normally be less than purchasing the property outright.
He was the proud winner of the Outstanding Apprentice Award in the Business and Services category at Colchester Institute’s Celebration of Further Education and Apprenticeship Awards in 2015.
If you are interested in applying for a shared ownership property, please visit www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/availanle-sharedownership-properties to see what’s currently available.
He said of his experience with Greenfields: “The Apprenticeship has been the best thing I could have chosen to do. Greenfields has given me great opportunities and guidance, and I am so glad I decided to do my Apprenticeship here and that I was successful in getting a full-time job as well.” Find out about apprenticeship opportunities at Greenfields by visiting www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/apprenticeships or calling 01376 535400.
Page 6
Universal Credit:
are you prepared? If you are in the process of applying, please contact us straightaway.
UC is being phased in gradually, and will eventually replace all of the benefits outlined above, for everyone applicable.
In April 2013, the Government began the process of implementing Welfare Reform. The reforms introduce significant changes to the benefits system, including the types of benefits available, who is eligible for certain benefits, and making individuals fully responsible for payment of rent.
If you become unemployed:
One of the main changes is the introduction of Universal Credit (UC). Universal Credit is a new benefit which replaces the following benefits with a single monthly payment: • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance • Income-related Employment & Support Allowance • Income Support • Working Tax Credit • Child Tax Credit • Child Tax Credit • Housing Benefit. Following assessment, UC is paid directly to the claimant. Any UC payments made will include a payment of housing costs; formerly known as Housing Benefit. Any tenants claiming UC have full responsibility for payment of their rent.
1. Visit your local Job Centre immediately. You will be assigned a Work Coach, who will talk you through the application process for UC and help you to begin the process of applying 2. The Department for Works & Pensions (DWP) will then liaise with us to get the information they need about your rent that will be required in order to complete your application as quickly as possible 3. Contact us as soon as you are advised of your first UC payment date 4. If you’re unable to meet your rent payments, you may need to organise a short-term payment plan with us, until you receive your first UC payment. If you are already in arrears with your rent prior to making a claim for UC, you need to ensure that you contact us to arrange a payment plan specifically for your arrears. Your home may be at risk if agreed payments are not made to your account.
Currently, Universal Credit is payable In the last three years 49 to new claimants who are single and of our tenants have been become newly unemployed. Should evicted from their homes you find yourself in this position, due to non-payment of rent. you’ll be advised to apply for UC when visiting your local Job Centre.
A spokesperson from Braintree District Council explained: “Any person who loses their accommodation as a result of something they do, or fail to do, is likely to be deemed “intentionally homeless”, if they subsequently approach the council for housing assistance. This means that the council would not have a duty to find them alternative accommodation.” Will Jones, Deputy Income Services Manager at Greenfields, says: “We want to help and support our customers through this period of change. It is important that we make them aware of their responsibility to make rent payments in order to safeguard their homes. We are always happy to help customers who may be in difficulty with their rent, by agreeing payment plans and offering appropriate advice, where necessary. I would urge customers to contact us as soon as possible if they feel they can’t pay their rent. We understand that our tenants have choices, but it is important that they prioritise paying their rent, to ensure their home is not put at risk. The earlier our customers tell us that they have applied for UC, the better chance we have to agree suitable payment plans with them. If any of our customers need information on the UC process, or need help managing their rent payments we are always happy to help, support and advise.”
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
Try out our self-service portal
At the touch of a button, you can: • Report repairs and make your own appointment (*NEW) • Check your repairs history • Check your rent balance and view statements • Make a secure payment using our online payment provider • Report anti-social behaviour • Update your household details • Send us a message.
Simply visit
www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk
Click on the yellow button and get started! 1. Visit our website:
www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk 2. Click on the yellow ‘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?’
Page 8
5. Fill out the details, which include your name, date of birth and tenancy number (please contact us if you don’t know this number) 6. Click on ‘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.
How to book and schedule repairs
You can now book repairs and make our own appointments through the self-service portal.
STEP 1
Hover the mouse pointer over the ‘Add Repair’ button on the left-hand menu
STEP 2
Select your address by clicking on it
STEP 3
Use the diagrams to select the area where a repair is required. You can use the ‘start’ and ‘back’ buttons to navigate and return to previous page. You can use the ‘advice’ button above each diagram to give you further information about the type of repair you require
STEP 4
Click on the area on the diagram where the repair is required
STEP 5
Use the drop-down menus to go into more detail about the repair. ‘OK’ means that there is no problem with that particular item. You can select multiple repairs, if needed
STEP 6
Select a location from the last drop-down option. You can type your own location, if you prefer, by clicking on ‘I want to write in a location’
STEP 7
Click on ‘make report’
STEP 8
If you would like to report another repair, click on ‘make another report’ and follow the same process
STEP 9
If you are happy that the details are correct, click on ‘send this report’. If not, select ‘delete’ and begin again.
STEP 10
Select a suitable appointment by clicking on the relevant date & time slot
STEP 11
Note the job number and the appointment date & time, for future reference.
If you have any questions or comments, please get in touch via the ‘Send a Message’ button on the self-service portal or:
Call: 01376 535400 Text: 07860 024511 Email: csc@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
Improving ways to keep in touch You may be aware that we have been contacting you to get updated mobile numbers and email addresses from you. This is so we can make more use of text and email to stay in touch with you, and vice versa. As well as calling us, writing to us or visiting us, you can also: • Text us on our text-only number: 07860 024511 Save it in your phone! You will receive an automated text response from us each time you text us. Please be aware that we are unable to receive texts containing picture messages and/or emojis. • Message us via our self-service portal at www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk • Email us on csc@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk
In addition to shopping you can also: • Donate used furniture, white goods and other household items (and have items picked up at no cost to you) • Benefit from employment, work placement and volunteering opportunities.
Donate or buy low-cost household items A new community facility has opened on East Street in Braintree, offering high-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. If you are a Greenfields’ tenant or leaseholder and a member of Greenfields, you will receive 20% off purchases and free delivery on purchases over £50. The project has been part-funded through a £150,000 grant from Greenfields and Braintree District Council. Page 10
Richard Huckett, Executive Officer at T.R.E.E. said: “It’s fantastic to be able to help so many people in the District to find household items that they can afford. We are currently looking for volunteers to help to run the shop from Tuesdays to Fridays from 9.15am to 4.45pm, so anyone interested should get in touch, as it’s a great way to increase your skills & confidence, and to help people to benefit from the great service we offer. Thank you to Greenfields for helping to make this project possible.” The workshop and shop are open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, from 9.30am – 4pm; and on Saturdays from 9.30am – 1.30pm. Find out more by visiting: www.tree1.org.uk or by calling 0300 66 66 007.
Charity round-up We support a local charity each year, as voted for by our members at our AGM. Last year we supported Braintree District & Chelmsford Crossroads Care and were proud to present them with a cheque for over £6,100 in January 2016. Crossroads Care offers physical and emotional support to the growing number of adults and young people who provide unpaid care to people affected by disability, age, illness or mental ill health. They can help carers by providing them with a break for a few hours each week; allowing them to spend that time how they choose. One receiver of the service, said:
“I can’t tell you how grateful I am that I have a Crossroads Care worker. She is so lovely and helpful. She helps with ideas for my mum and she is very supportive. I don’t know what I would do without her; a wonderful service. Thank you.”
This year we are supporting Essex Air Ambulance, a charity providing a free life-saving Helicopter Emergency Medical Service for the critically ill and injured of Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
What is it?
Tea break
Name the household objects
1.__________________ CLUE: Not so cuddly
Star maths pupil! Use the numbers 1 to 12 once. Place the numbers in the squares so that the sum of each line is equal to 26.
2.__________________ CLUE: Panthera leo
3.__________________ CLUE: Flightless
4.__________________ CLUE: Keratin nose
5.__________________ CLUE: Tallest
6.__________________ CLUE: Stripy horse
Did you know...? The the oldest timber-framed barn in the world is the Cressing Temple Barn!
The 350-mile-long Essex coast is the longest coastline of any English county.
Page 12
Riddle me this:
?
We see it once in a year, twice in a week, but never in a day. What is it? All the answers to this edition’s tea break can be found on page 33.
K
Kids Corner
H Kids Corner H Kids Corner H Kids Corner H
Springtime Flowers
We are offering a creative reader the chance to win a prize for colouring in this below picture. Please send in your entries to Amanda Bhavnani by the end of July 2016 to Greenfields Community Housing, Greenfields House, Charter Way, Braintree, Essex, CM77 8FG. We are looking forward to seeing what you can do!
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
Noticeboard Date for your Diary Witham Area Forum Meeting, AGM Wednesday 15 June 2016
10.30-12.30pm, Rex Mott Court older persons’ scheme, Guithavon Street, Witham, CM8 1UP
Halstead Area Form meeting, Tuesday 21 June 2016 2pm-4pm. Venue was unconfirmed at time of printing; please contact us to find out more.
Wanted! Your Views We are currently reviewing the following policies and would appreciate your feedback: • Income Management Policy • Tenure Policy • Anti-social Behaviour
and s r i a rep n Book your ow y make ments b int appo our self l using e porta c e servi ebsit w r u on o epage! rg.uk hom CH.o lds enfie e r G . www
If you are interested in being involved in these discussions, please contact Jenny Upton, Business Assurance Advisor, by calling 01376 535431, by emailing Consultation@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk or by visiting www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/your-views Follow
Page 14
us
@Green fieldsC @Green H fieldsj obs
Pl
you f i y l e t a i d e imm s u t c a t n o c lease redit C l a s r e v i n apply for U
Survey Time
received You may have he post a survey in t king you to from us, as what you let us know the service think about we provide. ’t already, If you haven out and please fill it – you send it back £50 could win a cher. shopping vou Thank you.
, online e r ’ e W u? are yo
h ct wit Conne us at g.uk sCH.or ld e fi n e e www.Gr
Our Performance April 2015 - March 2016 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
1.45%
1.35%
Green
Homes not meeting the 0% 0% Green ‘Decent Homes Standard’ Average time to complete 10 weeks 6 weeks Green a major aid or adaptation
Sav Cust e our ne w o text mer Serv -only ices n u m be your phon r in e. 0786 0 02 4511
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
Fire prevention:
Protect people in your home “The overall experience was terrible – an absolute nightmare” As your landlord, we want you and your neighbours to feel safe and secure in your homes. We do our best to ensure this happens, but a handful of our properties do experience fires; most of which would have been avoidable if simple precautions had been taken.
Did you know?
Did you know?
21 people die each year because their smoke alarm wasn’t working at the time of the fire.
Around half of home fires are caused by cooking accidents.
Did you know?
Did you know?
Three fires a day are started by candles.
Every five days someone dies from a fire caused by a cigarette.
Did you know? Faulty electrics (appliances, wiring and overloaded sockets) cause around 6,000 fires in the home every year.
Page 16
Did you know? You could lose the whole contents of your home if they are not protected by insurance.
The experience Susan from Braintree had a fire in her home caused by a chip pan left unattended. The damage was devastating. Unfortunately, Susan hadn’t taken out home contents insurance, and needed to replace £2,000 worth of expensive items like a fridge and a cooker; which she had to pay for by taking out a loan.
Friends, family and Greenfields have had to help us to buy basic furniture to replace what we lost, and I am absolutely gutted to lose the photos of my children growing up.”
Shocked and upset by the experience, Susan said: “I was a bag of nerves after the fire and I felt stupid. Although Greenfields were very helpful and made sure I had somewhere safe to stay, the overall experience was terrible – an absolute nightmare.”
One of the residents in the property said: “Luckily, the fire was contained within one room, but that doesn’t mean there wasn’t a lot of disruption and upheaval. Luckily, we did have contents insurance to replace the damaged items but it took a long time for the money to come through, and it was very difficult to remember and list everything we lost.” “We also had to replace electrical items like computers and TVs, even
She continued: “My concentration lapsed for a few minutes and I can’t believe what happened to our home.
In 2015, residents from a property in Braintree had a house fire which resulted in them being rehomed for nine months.
though they weren’t in the same room as the fire. This is because the carbon from the smoke made them live and therefore dangerous. And getting rid of the smell from clothes and belongings took a long time. I strongly recommend people to test their smoke alarms regularly. If it hadn’t woken us up, it could have been far worse.” Greenfields fit smoke alarms to all our properties. We also carry out fire risk assessments in all blocks, do annual services on heating systems and carry out regular electrical checks. But there are some simple actions you can take to help prevent fires in your homes. See below:
Free home safety visit You can arrange a free home fire safety visit from Essex Fire Service: Call: 0300 303 0088 Visit: www.essex-fire.gov.uk (follow the home safety link)
Get covered If the worst were to happen, would you be able to replace your furniture, electrical goods in your home – such as your TV – or your clothes, jewellery and ornaments? And some items, like photos, are simply irreplaceable.
Make a bedtime check You are more at risk from a fire when you’re asleep. So it’s a good idea to check your home before you go to bed: • Close inside doors at night to stop a fire and smoke from spreading.
We highly recommend that you take out home contents insurance, to replace your lost or damaged belongings. My Home Contents Insurance offers discounted premiums for tenants.
• Turn off and unplug electrical appliances unless they are designed to be left on e.g. your freezer, and never overload adaptors or extension leads.
Find out more by:
• Double-check your cooker is turned off.
Calling: 0345 450 7288 Emailing: myhome@thistleinsurance.co.uk Visiting: www.thistlemyhome.co.uk
To find out more about fire prevention, Visit www.gov.uk/firekills or call or visit your local fire station
• Turn heaters off and put up fireguards. • Make sure candles and cigarettes are put out properly. • Make sure exits and exit routes are kept clear. • Keep door and window keys where you can find them.
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
My Story: Andrew Wiseman “If someone had told me six months ago that I would feel 10 times better by now, I would have laughed at them” “I’m 23-years-old, I’m from Ipswich and I’ve previously been a volunteer for Greenfields’ Positive Engagement Programme. My life had been pretty rough up until a few months ago. I left home when I was 18 and moved into a hostel for a year. Because antidepressants and alcohol aren’t a good mix, I was thrown out after 18 months for criminal damage. I then spent six months living on the street; before living in another hostel for four months, and then moving into a flat. I had to leave after a while as there was no work in the area. That’s when I moved to Sible Hedingham and became a Greenfields tenant. My neighbourhood co-ordinator, Mark, told me about Greenfields’ Positive Engagement Programme, and how it could help me. I then got in touch with James, Greenfields’ Positive Engagement Co-ordinator, and he put me on the NEET & Tidy programme, which transforms the gardens of tenants who can’t manage them by themselves. The NEET & Tidy programme is for people who are not in Education, Employment or Training. I was quite nervous when I started, but, by the end of it, I realised that work helps you to feel better in so many ways. If the programme wasn’t there, nothing would have changed – it was a reason to get up in the morning. I also made a friend who I still keep in touch with now; even though I generally keep myself to myself. I also received some further help with my depression. During a particularly bad night, I texted Mark and James and told them I was Page 18
James congra tulati ng An drew o n his new
job
feeling very low. They came round the next day and talked me into contacting my doctor, who immediately referred me to the Mental Health Team. I now know I can call them if I need them. I recently applied for a job as cleaner at Braintree Freeport and I couldn’t believe it when I got it! I wouldn’t have gone for it if it wasn’t for Greenfields. I still have bad days, but I will get through them, and I love my new job. There is no doubt that taking part in the programme helped me to get where I am. If someone had told me six months ago that I would feel 10 times better by now, I would have laughed at them.” If you would like to find out more about our NEET & Tidy Programme, please: Visit: www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/neet-tidy Contact: James Martin - Positive Engagement Co-ordinator, 01376 535400 ext. 4140 E-mail: James.Martin@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk
My Story:
I also had to go out with my husband in the garden and walk from a bench to a tree; which I hugged when I got there and officially became a “Tree Hugger!”
Jean Turner
16-22 May 2016 was National Mental Health Week. There are many types of mental health conditions, and it is estimated that one in four of us will experience some kind of mental health problem at some time in our life. Recognising that you may have a mental health problem and taking the first steps to get help can be difficult. This is Jean Turner’s story. Jean began suffering from agoraphobia three years ago and has bravely agreed to share her experience with us. “I was always aware of agoraphobia, as my mum had it when I was younger and she didn’t go out for years. I also have a history of having panic attacks in public places, although I could generally live a “normal” life. However, three years ago I was suffering with vertigo, which caused me to lose balance and feel insecure. I was having trouble walking around, but was still able to go out with my husband. One day, I was pushing a trolley around Tesco with my husband when I suddenly realised that I was unable to walk across an aisle. I was panicking and I couldn’t do it; I felt terrified. I didn’t even feel I could go home in a taxi, so my son picked us up and took us home. The following week we booked a taxi to go to Tesco and I couldn’t get out of the door. I didn’t want to go outside as I felt little and the world felt big. I was in tears. My fear was “this is it” and that I would end up like my mum. I rang my doctor and he said “what do
you want me to about it?” which was upsetting. I told my daughter, who rang the surgery and they arranged for another doctor to visit me. Luckily, he was lovely and said that it would be a long process but I will get through it.
“I didn’t want to go outside as I felt little and the world felt big” He gave me pills to help combat the anxiety and depression, but I was still unable to walk across any open space; even at home. It was taking over my life. At this stage, my daughter took me to the doctors to find out about therapy. It was quite funny as when my daughter picked me up she had to park her car as close as was humanly possible to my front door! Also, I wanted to turn around and go back but she wouldn’t let me! My doctor referred me to a therapist at Braintree Community Hospital and I had six sessions. As part of the therapy I was set exercises, which included my daughter taking me out in the car, and me finding a small space at home to walk across without holding onto anything. During therapy, I asked the therapist why my symptoms were so physical and she said “the brain is a powerful thing”, which helped to put me at ease.
During the time I was having therapy, my daughter asked me to go to Kent with her to see our friend. We stayed in a one-level hotel as I didn’t want to use the stairs at my friend’s house. I was also very scared about going over the Dartford Bridge, but my therapist told me to read a magazine and not to look out the window, which definitely helped. I am now able to stay at my friend’s house a lot, although I did have to crawl up the stairs and across the landing the first time, which we all had a good laugh about! I have also been going to Greenfields’ chair-based exercise classes, which help with my balance. It’s great interacting with everyone and they are so encouraging. At one class, I noticed that someone had a tri-walker. I tried it out and found that I could walk across the room rather than hugging the walls. I’ve not looked back since. Three years ago I thought that I wouldn’t leave the house again. Now, with the support, of a therapist, medication and family and friends, I am facing challenges and improving. My next aim is to get on a bus. I have tried it previously, but had a panic attack, which put me off. I am determined to do it!”
For help and support with mental health problems you can visit your doctor or get in touch with a support group like the Mental Health Foundation by: Visiting: mentalhealth.org.uk Calling: 0207 803 1100
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
WE NEED YOU!
Volunteers wanted
Want to make changes for the better? The Community Gateway Group (CGG) is an elected group of tenants and leaseholders who are a voice for our residents and have a real say in improving the services that we provide. We are giving you the opportunity to stand for election onto the Group. There are 12 vacancies, for 11 tenants and one leaseholder. The process begins in April to help our candidates prepare for the election in September 2016. Every one of you has something to give, through the experience of living in your neighbourhoods & communities. We really value your input and welcome fresh ideas.
CGG meetings are held once a month in the evening and could last up to three hours. You can also join ‘working groups’ and attend training sessions & events, depending on how much time you have available. Training and transport will be provided during the election process, along with reimbursement of childcare costs if you are elected. Come along to an information session to find out more: Monday 23rd May 2016, 5pm – 6pm Monday 27th June 2016, 5pm – 6pm Greenfields House, Charter Way, Braintree, Essex, CM77 8FG
To register your interest and book onto an information session, please contact Helen Shuttlewood:
Call: 01376 332488 | Email: Helen.Shuttlewood@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk Page 20
Changes to governance
your vote counts! In September 2016, we’ll be asking Community Gateway members to vote on changes to the way Greenfields is governed. It’s important that you use your vote to decide on whether these changes go ahead or not. We will provide more information about this nearer the time, and welcome any views, questions or concerns you have in the meantime. Please call 01376 535400 or email csc@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk What does governance mean? Governance is the term used to describe the arrangements that organisations put in place to enable effective decision-making relating to finance, assets, customer service and much more.
Why is governance so important?
Strong governance arrangements are at the heart of all successful, viable and sustainable organisations.
How is Greenfields governed now?
We have a board of 15 volunteers, made up of six tenants, one leaseholder, five independent members and three Council nominees. Residents are elected by other residents, independent members are recruited by interview, and Council nominees are appointed by Braintree District Council.
What does the Greenfields board do?
The board is responsible for our strategic direction. It determines our vision and ensures we stay true to our values and community gateway principles. The board also makes sure we deliver high-quality services for residents and take their views into account through our Community Gateway Group (CGG) and Area Forums. Above all, the board sees that Greenfields continues to be a financially viable business, which is able to grow in a measured and controlled way.
Why is Greenfields governed this way?
Greenfields was established in 2007 to own and manage the properties transferred from Braintree District Council. The Business Rules set out then to govern how the board works have not changed since.
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
What are the proposed changes? Following an independent review, we’re proposing to reduce the number of board members to a maximum of ten people, recruited for the skills, knowledge and experience they can bring, rather than by election or nomination.
Why is the board proposing these changes? Our regulator, the Homes and Communities Agency, requires us to comply with a recognised code of governance. We want to comply with the National Housing Federation’s Code, to safeguard our regulatory status. The Code recommends that boards should have between five and 12 members to be at their most effective, while bringing the right mix of skills and experience to meet the needs of the business. This Code is recognised as best practice for governance in the housing sector, and is adopted by nearly 90% of all housing associations. We need to meet new challenges arising from national housing policy and welfare reform. The housing sector has been through enormous change over the past twelve months. Rent reductions have affected associations’ business plans, welfare reforms have impacted on residents’ incomes, reduced grant rates have hit housebuilding programmes and the Government’s emphasis is now on home ownership through the Right to Buy and shared ownership.
Page 22
This level of change, coupled with increased expectation and scrutiny from our regulator, makes strong governance more important than ever.
Will the changes affect the service I receive? No. The proposed governance changes would make no difference to Greenfields’ vision and values, your rights and rents or the services we provide.
Will tenants and leaseholders still be able to sit on the board? Yes. Tenants and leaseholders would be able to apply to be board members, and be recruited for the skills, knowledge and experience only they can bring.
What happens next? If you are a Gold Member of Greenfields, we will ask you to vote for or against the governance changes before our Annual General Meeting on 29 September 2016. In the meantime, we welcome any views that you have on these proposals.
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
Like some help getting online? We are offering all our residents the opportunity to become confident in ‘logging on’ to the internet, whether through your computer, laptop, tablet, iPad or smartphone. Being online can help you:
• Get discounts on services and save up to £500 per year • Apply for Universal Credit • Apply for jobs, using sites like Universal Job Match • Do your banking • Keep in touch with family and friends • Find out what’s happening in your community • Meet like-minded people who share your interests • Shop for food, clothes or anything else! This FREE help and support is available to all Greenfields residents, whether you’ve used a computer before or not. You don’t need your own device either; we can lend you something to learn on. And you could get an IT qualification to add to your CV. For an informal chat, please call
Val Thompstone on 01376 535400 ext. 5678
Page 24
Open up your world “Being online can literally open up your world.” Not only can you meet new people, do your shopping and banking and apply for jobs and Universal Credit; but the amount you can learn about anything is almost infinite! Not to mention being able to keep up with your friends, family and communities, which is priceless. If you would like to learn more about being online and what it can offer you, please get in touch. We can then talk through the different ways that I can help you, be it
coming along to a demonstration, a taster session (have a go at doing it yourself) a drop-in session to solve a particular problem you’re having, or a training course where you could earn a qualification. I and my digi-pals will be always be on hand to talk you through everything. You don’t need your own equipment and we don’t expect you to have any prior knowledge of computers or of being online. And the best thing of all – it’s free! We run sessions at our offices and in some of our older persons’
schemes, but we are always looking for other venues, so please let me know if you can help with this. If you are already confident using the internet but don’t have your own device you can use one of the four computers available at Greenfields House at Freeport, Braintree. Just pop along any time between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday and start surfing. If you know how to “log on” but want to learn more about what you can do please visit:
www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk/computer-guides to find out how to E-mail, Skype, increase your security and more.
And finally, if you would like to become a digi-pal and help your fellow residents increase their confidence, knowledge and skills, please let me know. Just call me on: 01376 535400 or e-mail: Val.Thompstone@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk to find out more about any of the opportunities available.
Val Thompstone
Digital Inclusion Co-ordinator Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
Child Sexual Exploitation
Don’t stand for it.
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) IS WHEN YOUNG PEOPLE UNDER 18 RECEIVE ‘SOMETHING’ (FOOD, ACCOMMODATION, DRUGS, ALCOHOL, CIGARETTES, AFFECTION, GIFTS, MONEY) IN EXCHANGE FOR PERFORMING, AND/OR OTHERS PERFORMING ON THEM, SEXUAL ACTIVITIES. Page 26
Think you or a friend might have been sexually exploited? Want some advice or someone to talk to?
It’s ok to talk to someone. Any young person regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity and sexuality can be at risk of being sexually exploited. For help or advice: If you are concerned about a child in Essex, call Social
Care (Family Operations Hub) on 0345 603 7627 or on their out-of-hours number 0845 606 1212. Other useful links and videos: www.childrenssociety.org.uk www.eypdas.org.uk www.disrespectnobody.co.uk www.thinkuknow.co.uk www.mesmac.co.uk/projects/blast/for-boys-and-young-men www.projectconsent.com www.barnardosrealloverocks.org.uk
If you are worried that you or someone else might be at immediate risk: Call Essex Police on
999
Injunctions obtained to protect abused resident. Earlier this year, we worked with local partners, including the Police, to obtain injunctions against two men who were abusing a 65-year-old Greenfields resident. The young men and their girlfriends were breaking into his home late at night, forcing him into his bedroom so they could take drugs in his living room. The resident, who suffers from ongoing mental health problems, was subjected to physical, emotional, psychological and financial abuse; which included being sprayed in face with aerosols and having money stolen. Once we became aware of the shocking situation, we worked closely with Essex Police and Social Services to collect evidence to take to Court. Since the injunctions were issued the resident has said:
To report something you think doesn’t feel right contact:
“If it wasn’t for Greenfields, I wouldn’t be where I am now. I had no idea they helped with things like that; I thought they were just a landlord.”
Essex Police on
Sandra Crosby, Greenfields’ Housing Director, said:
101
“We have a zero-tolerance to any form of abuse, and will work with partners to do all we can to resolve issues and take action, where needed. We want our residents to feel safe and secure in their homes, at all times.”
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
ARE YOU CONCERNED? Do you know an adult who is being treated badly, taken advantage of, or injured?
If so, call the Ask SAL Helpline
08452 66 66 63
ASK SAL SAFEGUARDING Someone in need of help because of a disability, illness or age and is unable to take care of themselves or stop someone else from harming or exploiting them.
What is abuse? Abuse may be: • Neglect • Physical abuse • Financial abuse • Sexual abuse • Psychological/Emotional abuse • Discriminatory abuse • Institutional abuse Page Page 26 28
Who abuses and where does it happen? Anyone can be an abuser. Abuse can happen anywhere e.g. in someone’s own home, a residential or nursing home, day centres or hospitals.
What can you do? Report it. If you see, hear or suspect that a vulnerable adult is being abused call Ask Sal on 08452 66 66 63
21021
Who is a vulnerable adult?
Call in confidence 08452 What to do if you suspect abuse • Report it immediately
66 66 63
What happens next? Whatever you tell us will be treated with sensitivity. You will be asked for details about the person you think is at risk or is being abused and about the person you think is the abuser. It is very important that we protect the person you are worried about and that they are safe. Upon receipt of the concern we will look very carefully at the situation and following an investigation any outcome would depend on the individual circumstance and the wishes of the vulnerable person.
ASK SAL SAFEGUARDING
• Do not confront the alleged abuser
• If serious or sexual assault, do not touch or clean anything (including the victim), as this could destroy or taint evidence that may be required for any future criminal proceedings
Visit
www.asksal.org.uk To receive this information in a text message, text ASKSAL to 60777 (Texts will be charged at standard network rate) (Calls from BT landlines will be charged at local rate)
If you would like this leaflet in an alternative format such as another language, large print or Braille, please email info@asksal.org.uk Gateway Gateway to to Greenfields Greenfields || Spring/Summer Spring/Summer 2016 2016
Got green fingers?
Greenfields
Gardening Competition 2016 You could win prizes for:
Best Garden Best Tubs & Pots Most Improved Healthy Garden Children’s Garden
Prizes for each category:
First Prize: £50 Second Prize: £25 Closing date is Monday 13 June 2016 To enter, please fill out the application form and send it to: Jess Brett, Neighbourhoods Manager, Greenfields Community Housing, Greenfields House, Charter Way, Braintree, Essex, CM77 8FG. Alternatively, you can email Jessica.Brett@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk with your information. Don’t be shy, show us your skills!
Application Form Greenfields Gardening Competition 2016
Categories: Which category/categories do you
wish to enter? (please tick all that apply) Best Garden
Name:
Best Tubs and Pots
Address:
Most Improved Healthy Garden
Postcode: Telephone Number: Email Address: Page 30
Children’s Garden
Please return your completed form by Monday 13 June 2016
Have you heard?
Food bank opening hours change Foodbanks receive food donations, which are then passed onto those who require emergency food following referral from organisations like Greenfields, GP surgeries and Social Services. The hours for Halstead Foodbank have changed. They are now open Mondays from 10am till 2pm. The coffee shop is also open during these times. Halstead Foodbank also has centres in Braintree and Witham.
Changes to rural bus services Bus services in some rural areas in the District are now being replaced by Demand Responsive Transport (DaRT). Instead of using fixed routes with fixed stops and times, DaRT customers book journeys with the operator in advance and are picked up from an agreed point; often their own home, a bus stop or local place of interest. DaRT operates in West Uttlesford, North Uttlesford/West Braintree and North East Braintree. To find out more about the service, please visit www.essexhighways.org/Transport-andRoads/Getting-Around/Bus/DemandResponsive-Transport-DaRT.aspx or call 03457 430 430
Call 01376 330694 Visit www.braintreearea.foodbank.org.uk or Email info@braintreearea.foodbank.org.uk
Report crimes online Did you know that you can now report non-emergency crimes online? Just visit www.essex.police.uk and go to ‘Online Services.’
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
SPOTLIGHT ON
The Customer Services Team Greenfields’ Customer Services Team is based at Greenfields House in Braintree. The Team consists of around 20 staff members, who deal with telephone, email and text enquiries from residents, local organisations, contractors and anyone else who contacts Greenfields. We spoke to three members of staff to find out what the experience is like for them:
Emilie Harris Time in post: Seven months “A lot of our work is dealing with calls about repairs; answering a range of technical queries and logging the repair on behalf of the resident. I expect that these calls will slowly decrease now that people can report and schedule their own repairs using the self-service portal on our website. We also deal with residents’ feedback, including complaints, reports of antisocial behaviour and questions about rent payments. In addition to this, we investigate different matters on behalf of both staff and residents, to help speed up response times and aid resolution. I like the fact that my job involves constantly learning as procedures change and develop.”
Alisia Cherry Time in post: Nineteen months “Our busiest times tend to be after weekends and bank holidays, or if the weather has been bad, as storms can result in damaged fencing and other repairs. We log every call and email that we receive, which makes it easier for both residents and staff if they contact us about the same query or something similar again. As procedures are often improved and changed across different departments at Greenfields, we have to keep ourselves updated at all times, so we can help residents with their queries as quickly as possible. As well as learning “on the job”, we also do lots of shadowing of other teams at Greenfields, which not only means we learn about their jobs, but we can also get to know staff across the organisation and build relationships.”
Jayne Marks Time in post: Seven years “I’ve been here since Day One, and the amount of queries we deal with and people who work in my team has at least doubled! We also now carry out satisfaction surveys, cover the reception area at Greenfields House and reply to emails and texts from residents. I expect that now two of our offices have closed (Witham and Halstead), enquiries will increase even more, as some residents used to prefer coming to see us at our offices and are now contacting us in other ways. We do have a lot of information on our website, which residents can access if they are happy to do so.
Page 32
Residents do call us occasionally with enquiries about refuse and recycling bins, Council Tax and Housing Benefit, which are dealt with by Braintree District Council but not Greenfields. In this instance we refer these to the Council, who are able to help with their enquiry. I enjoy my role as I get to help our residents and no two days are ever the same.”
We’ve employed 18 out of 22 apprentices who have completed their apprenticeships with us
You can now report and book appointments through our self-service portal (see page 8)
Did you know?
We have a new text-only Customer Services number: 07860 024511
Answers from Tea Break page.
1
What is it?
Riddle me this:
1. Kettle 2. Light Bulb 3. Remote Control 4. Plunger 5. Scissors 6. Fork
We see it once in a year, twice in a week, but never in a day. The letter E.
7
9
2
10 6
8 11
5
3
12
4 Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
In their own words
Your resident representatives volunteer in a wide variety of roles to help to make decisions about your homes, neighbourhoods and housing service.
Robert Yates Braintree Area Forum
“I joined Braintree Area Forum six years ago after realising that it would help me to make improvements – not only to where I live, but to other areas too. I like being on the forum because we can get things done – little things that make big changes to people’s lives. These include creating a playpark, creating a woodland area, improving and increasing parking spaces, installing benches and running the annual Greenfields Gardening Competition. The scheme where I live received funding from the Forum for me and my neighbours to transform the communal garden. We have been given an umbrella, a greenhouse, a shed and raised beds. All of us are grouping together to plant lots of fruit and vegetables; which not only brings us all together but also gives us a reason to go outside! I like being on the Braintree Area Forum because everybody works well together; we are all positive and achieve a lot. We are currently looking for more Committee Members, so anyone interested in improving their communities by working with their fellow residents should contact Arron Samson on 01376 535400 ext. 5610 or Arron.Samson@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk”
Ken Davies
Humber Road Estate Community Initiative “I have been involved with Greenfields since the beginning, and I am currently Chairman of the Humber Road Estate Community Initiative (HRECI) in Witham. HRECI provides many interesting opportunities to meet with other residents of the Humber Road Estate, and to improve the area in which we live. Our meetings are semi-formal and we discuss initiatives like environmental improvements and tree-planting; working with the Children’s Centre, local schools & academies and Witham Boy’s Brigade, to give them a sense of ownership of the facilities. We have a really good relationship with our Neighbourhood Co-ordinators and Greenfields in general. We also have good links with Braintree District Council, Witham Town Council, Essex County Council and Rural Community Council of Essex. This may lead you to believe that it is a lot of hard work but I find that the relaxed manner with which we approach all organisations has the major advantage of getting things done without a lot of stress. This has been a successful approach which has been strongly guided by the words of Phil Adams, Greenfields’ Chief Executive: “What difference does it make to my mum?” i.e. how will an action that we take make a difference to the lives of local residents? We are now starting to develop an identity of our own and have been successful in obtaining grants from outside bodies, such as Tesco. We are busy generating a Community Plan for the estate and are pleased that our initial draft has been approved by our funding body. I feel that it is important to be involved in making decisions that affect my home and community. We have a fully functioning committee but are always looking for new members. Please contact Jessica Brett at Greenfields if you’re interested in finding out more.”
Page 34
Greenfields’ Resident Challenge Group Philip Watts (Chair)
“I am proud to be a volunteer for Greenfields’ Resident Challenge Group (RCG). We endeavour to improve residents’ living standards through working closely with staff to scrutinise Greenfields’ services; and I enjoy the challenges we take on. We are a small group and are looking for residents to join us. If you feel you have a skill that would benefit our group, please do not hesitate to come along and see how we work.” and Ian Phillip, Ann Left to right:
Ann Pomeroy (Vice Chair)
“I really enjoy the investigations we have undertaken, as it enables us to understand how Greenfields operates. Staff members work with us 100% when we ask for certain information. We produce our own report at the end of each project and we offer our recommendations/suggestions to the Head of whichever service we are working with. This is all done on behalf of Greenfields’ residents, including ourselves. I write up these reports, which l find very rewarding but l couldn’t do this without help from the rest of the group. We need more residents to volunteer for this interesting and rewarding group and we would be so pleased to hear from you.”
Ian Bodley
“I joined the Resident Challenge Group from the start in 2012, as I was intrigued to find out what the group do. We all get on very well and support each other when we have our meetings. We meet four times a year to discuss the quarterly figures but when we are doing a scrutiny investigation on a specific service we meet quite regularly, and have so far completed three investigations: 1. Anti-social Behaviour 2. Voids (Empty Homes) 3. Responsive Repairs The investigations have led to changes being made within these services. One example is that staff members now contact tenants who have reported anti-social behaviour more often to keep them updated and check how they are, and another is that Greenfields now carry out spot-checks on the standard of cleanliness prior to homes being let to new tenants.
If you would like to join the RCG and have a say in how we shape our services, please contact Gemma Foxlow, Greenfields’ Business Services Co-ordinator, on 01376 535400 ext. 4133 or Gemma.Foxlow@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk.
Working together Around 48 of our residents are “involved” with Greenfields; meaning that they volunteer to work alongside us to improve their homes and communities through being on groups or forums. We recently held a ‘working together’ event so that our involved residents could meet with Greenfields Board members and staff. As part of the event, attendees: • Learnt more about the proposed governance changes (see page 21) and what it means for Greenfields. • Contributed their ideas for our new ‘Community Strategy’, which sets out how we will be improving the lives of residents in our communities over the next four years. • Discussed the benefits of using our selfservice portal (see page 8) and how they can encourage others to use it. One attendee said: “I’ve had a lovely day and learned a lot of valuable information.” If you would like to get involved with Greenfields, please: Call: 01376 535400 or E-mail: csc@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk We will provide support, encouragement and training to help you become fully involved at a level that suits you.
Gateway to Greenfields | Spring/Summer 2016
G2G Formerly Gateway to Greenfields
Telephone 01376 535400 Text 07860 024511 Email csc@GreenfieldsCH.org.uk Website www.GreenfieldsCH.org.uk Write to or visit: Greenfields Community Housing Greenfields House Charter Way Braintree Essex CM77 8FG @GreenfieldsCH