Open House Issue 1 2018

OpenHouse The Magazine for Council Tenants and Leaseholders

Issue 1 2018

Blooming great… it’s the Tenants’ and Leaseholders’ Gardening Competition!

See page 2 for details

Return Address: City and County of Swansea, Civic Centre, Oystermouth Road, Swansea, SA1 3SN

What’s Inside Welcome to OpenHouse FEATURES Focus on... Sheltered Housing ..........

Gardening Competition .....................

Get Swansea Online ..........................

Dylan Thomas Exhibition ...................

1 2 6 7

LOCAL LINKS

8

TENANCY AND ESTATE Tenants’ Voice .....................................

Sheltered housing news ....................

HomeSwapper ..................................

How are we doing? ...........................

What’s on in your area? ....................

Rent payment methods .....................

Support services ................................

Contact Information ...........................

How would you prefer to receive Open House? .....................................

Legal changes affecting tenants ......

High Rise Sprinkler Programme ........

Universal Credit ..................................

Tenants / Leasehold Survey ..............

10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 24

25 26 28 29 30 30 31 32

EQUALITIES Best Start .............................................. 33 Child Sexual Exploitation .................... 34 Can we help you? ............................... 34 ALL INFORMATION IN OPENHOUSE IS CORRECT AT TIME OF GOING TO PRESS.

Open House: Issue 1 2018

Useful Contacts Editor - Rachel Cole .................................................................

Repairs Contact Centre ...........................................................

Out of Hours Emergency Repairs ...........................................

24 hour Neighbourhood Support Unit ...................................

Housing Options ......................................................................

Environment Contact Centre ...................................................

Housing BeneďŹ t Queries .........................................................

635045 635100 521500 648507 533100 635600 635353

District Housing OfďŹ ce Numbers

GENERAL ADVICE Age Cymru Warm & Well ...................

Staying Steady ....................................

Disabled Facilities Grant ....................

No nuisance callers, no uninvited traders ...........................

Smart Meters ......................................

Tip Treasures Reuse Shop ..................

The National Minimum Wage are you getting it? ...............................

Real Nappy Cashback Scheme .........

Welcome to Open House, the magazine for Council tenants and Leaseholders.

As usual we’ve packed this edition with plenty of useful information and advice. We hope you will enjoy looking at the gardens of the winners of the 2017 gardening competition. Please look at the entry form on page 5 and think about entering your own garden into this years’ competition.

Newcomers are always welcome and there is a special category for those that haven’t entered before. We are always keen to get more tenants and leaseholders involved in the service so if you are interested, please get in touch with Jenny Hughes our Participation OfďŹ cer. You don’t have to come to any meetings to have your say. See page 10 for contact details. On page 14 you will ďŹ nd information about how we are performing. There are also some important changes that affect council tenants on page 20. If you have any ideas that you would like to see in a future edition of Open House or anything else about the Housing Service you would like to know more about, we would be happy to hear from you and we may include it in a future issue.

Open House is also available to read online at www.swansea.gov.uk/housing Rachel Cole, Editor

Eastside District Housing OfďŹ ce ..............................................

Morriston & Clase District Housing OfďŹ ce ..............................

Sketty District Housing OfďŹ ce ...................................................

Townhill & Mayhill District Housing OfďŹ ce ..............................

Blaenymaes District Housing OfďŹ ce .......................................

Gorseinon District Housing OfďŹ ce ...........................................

Penlan District Housing OfďŹ ce ................................................

Town Centre District Housing OfďŹ ce .......................................

West Cross District Housing OfďŹ ce .........................................

All telephone numbers are Swansea based (01792)

791251 601720 516810 513900 534060 897700 582704 650486 402500

District Housing Email Addresses Blaenymaes.DistrictHousingOfďŹ ce@swansea.gov.uk Eastside.DistrictHousingOfďŹ ce@swansea.gov.uk Gorseinon.DistrictHousingOfďŹ ce@swansea.gov.uk Morriston.DistrictHousingOfďŹ ce@swansea.gov.uk Penlan.DistrictHousingOfďŹ ce@swansea.gov.uk Sketty.DistrictHousingOfďŹ ce@swansea.gov.uk Townhill.DistrictHousingOfďŹ ce@swansea.gov.uk TownCentre.DistrictHousingOfďŹ ce@swansea.gov.uk WestCross.DistrictHousingOfďŹ ce@swansea.gov.uk If you require this information in a different format eg large print, Braille, disc or other, please contact Housing Customer Services 01792 635045 or visit our website www.swansea.gov.uk/housing or email housing@swansea.gov.uk We welcome correspondence in Welsh and will deal with Welsh and English correspondence to the same standards and timescales.

Focus on...

Sheltered Housing

The Housing Service has 31 sheltered housing complexes which are situated across the city of Swansea. The complexes provide self-contained accommodation for people aged 60 years and above. The complexes vary in design and consist of flats and bungalows and each complex has the benefit of a designated sheltered housing warden. Each property within a complex has at least one bedroom, its own living room, kitchen and bathroom. All properties are fitted with an emergency alarm system which can be used to summon help at any time of the day or night 365 days of the year.

Diane Thomas, Sheltered Housing Manager, has responsibility for managing the service that is provided by the sheltered housing wardens and cleaners at all complexes.

The wardens provide low level support, if required, to tenants living in the sheltered complexes to enable them to remain living independently in their own home for as long as possible. The warden completes a support plan with each person to identify any help or assistance they may require to enable them to do this. They will then liaise with other services within the Council or any external agencies on behalf of the tenant to ensure they receive the appropriate help and assistance to meet their needs. They also encourage tenants to participate in social activities on a regular basis.

Social activities vary across all complexes from coffee mornings to day trips and also include activities for those who are unable to leave the complexes.

Aside from providing support to tenants, wardens are also responsible for ensuring that they provide a comprehensive premises management function which includes responsibilities under Health and Safety and Fire Safety regulations.

provided at our sheltered complexes and will provide assistance to tenants as well as ensuring the complexes high standards of cleanliness are met.

The cleaners are supervised, jointly, by Deborah Dowrick and Sarah Wright.

The sheltered service also has a designated warden who provides assistance to older people living in the wider community. The role is very similar to that of the sheltered warden in that it provides low level support and sign posts to other agencies if required.

This relatively new role has provided assistance to people who live in houses which have become too large or are no longer suitable for their needs to register for sheltered accommodation and has encouraged others to join in activities at some of the complexes to help them overcome their loneliness.

If you are interested in moving into sheltered accommodation or require further information on any aspects of the sheltered service then you can email your questions to Housing@swansea. gov.uk, contact your local District Housing Office or 01792 635034.

Across the city complexes are split into 2 areas, North and South, and each area has a senior warden who provides supervision for the wardens.

Sandra Brown is the senior warden in the North and Carol Frimston the South.

Cleaners also form an integral part of the service

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2017 - the winners...

Last summer, the 18th annual Tenants’ and Leaseholders’ Gardening competition was held and we received a record number of entrants.

The judges were very impressed with the high standard of gardens from those who entered and it was also nice to see a number of new entrants to the competition.

Here is a selection of the winners from the competition...

Overall Winner Andrea Evans from Grovesend was 2017’s overall winner. Andrea has been entering the competition for a number of years and enjoys using recycled or unusual items in her garden display.

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Best Container Garden

Best Garden, Penlan

Best Lifestyle Garden

Ms Tina Yandell, Loughor

Mrs Barbara John

Ms Linda Williams, Loughor

Best Edible Garden

Best Garden, Sketty

Best Newcomer

Mr Richard Russ, Townhill

Laugharne Court Sheltered Complex

Mrs Anne Wheaton, Gendros

Best Garden, Blaenymaes

Best Garden, Townhill

Best Sheltered Complex

Ms Patricia Williams

Mr Gerald Dent

Mountbatten Court

Best Garden, Eastside

Best Garden, West Cross

Best Wildower Garden

Ms Juliet Rees

Mrs June Bolch

Mr Patrick McCormack, Winch Wen

Best Garden, Morriston

Best Lifestyle Garden

Judges’ Choice Award

Mrs Jean Wheel

Mrs Gillian Danton, Grovesend

Mr Andrew George, Gendros

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2018... Now is the time for you to think about entering this year’s competition!

The competition is open to all tenants and leaseholders of Swansea Council. We welcome all our regular gardeners but we also want to encourage those who have never entered the competition before.

What have you got to lose? By entering this competition, you can have your hard work and talents recognised and you may even win a cash prize.

This year, the ‘Best Garden’ category has changed slightly as we have reviewed the categories to encourage even more tenants to enter the competition. There will now be a 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize for the winners of the ‘Best Garden’. The winner of the 1st prize will receive ÂŁ200, 2nd prize ÂŁ150 and the winner of the 3rd prize will receive ÂŁ100.

The winners of all other categories will receive £75 each. We have also introduced a new category this year - Best use of a small/restricted space. This is ideal for tenants who don’t have much room outside their property but want to make the most of the space that they have.

How to enter If you would like to take part in the competition, it couldn’t be easier! Just read the competition rules, choose the categories that you would like to enter and complete the entry form. The closing date is 6th July 2018.

Entry forms are also available at District Housing OfďŹ ces. Alternatively, visit our website www.swansea.gov.uk/housing or ring the Customer Services team on 01792 635045.

Competition rules UĂŠ /Â…iĂŠVÂœÂ“ÂŤiĂŒÂˆĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠÂœÂ˜Â?ĂžĂŠÂœÂŤiÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠĂŒi˜>Â˜ĂŒĂƒĂŠ>˜`ĂŠÂ?i>ĂƒiÂ…ÂœÂ?`iĂ€Ăƒ]ĂŠÂ…ÂœĂœiĂ›iĂ€ĂŠÂœĂŒÂ…iÀÊÀiĂƒÂˆ`iÂ˜ĂŒĂƒĂŠÂœÂ˜ĂŠÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠiĂƒĂŒ>ĂŒiĂƒĂŠÂˆÂ°i°Ê sold properties can enter the Swansea in Bloom competition. More details about this competition will be available in the local press or on Swansea Council’s website.

UĂŠ ĂŠÂŁĂƒĂŒ]ĂŠĂ“Â˜`ĂŠ>˜`ĂŠĂŽĂ€`ĂŠÂŤÂ?>ViĂŠĂœÂˆÂ?Â?ĂŠLiĂŠ>Ăœ>Ă€`i`ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂœÂˆÂ˜Â˜iĂ€ĂƒĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠBest Garden category. This can include either a front or back garden. The winners can be from any of the district housing ofďŹ ce areas.

UĂŠ Â˜ĂŒĂ€>Â˜ĂŒĂƒĂŠvÂœĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠBest Newcomer category must not have entered the competition previously.

UĂŠ Â˜ĂŒĂ€ÂˆiĂƒĂŠvÂœĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠEdible Garden can be in containers or as part of a garden (indoor or outdoor). The judging will be based on the quality and variety of edible produce.

UĂŠ Â˜ĂŒĂ€>Â˜ĂŒĂƒĂŠvÂœĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠBest Wildower Garden can set aside a small area of their garden for wild owers (this can include containers). Judging of this category will be based on the variety and overall appearance of the owers.

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UÊ ÌÀ iÃÊv ÀÊÌ iÊBest Communal Garden can include sheltered complexes or other communal areas maintained by a group of tenants/leaseholders.

UÊ / iÊJudges’ Choice award will be given to an entrant who has not won any of the other categories, but has impressed the judges with their effort and dedication which deserves recognition. The winner of this award will receive £50.

UÊ / iÊ‘Lifestyle Garden’ must be well kept, but may not be considered to be a ‘traditional’ or ‘formal’ garden with a large variety of flowers and plants. It needs to make the best use of space to suit the lifestyle and needs of the family UÊ / iÊ‘Best use of a small/restricted space’ category refers to an area which cannot be considered a garden i.e. a balcony or a small space outside a flat.

UÊ - Õ `ÊÌ iÊÜ iÀÊ Ê> ÞÊV>Ìi} ÀÞÊLiÊ ÊÀi ÌÊ>ÀÀi>ÀÃÊÌ iÊ«À âiÊ iÞÊÜ ÊLiÊ offset against the outstanding balance on the rent account.

To enter, please complete and return the entry form below:

Full Name Address

2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Post Code

..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Telephone

..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Email

...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Categories (please tick the applicable box(es) Best Garden

Best Newcomer

Best Communal Garden

Best Container Garden

Best Edible Garden

Best Wildflower Garden

Best Lifestyle Garden

Best use of a small/restricted space

Please return this form to your District Housing Office or send it FREEPOST to: City and County of Swansea, Housing Services, FREEPOST RSCT-JJZH-KLJZ, Civic Centre, Oystermouth Road, SA1 3SN

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Want to learn how to get the most out of the internet? It’s never too late to learn!

Get involved in the FREE beginners courses to get you online Learn how to get the most from the internet, send e-mails, save money, book holidays, surf the web, communicate with friends and family, and lots more.

Run by a qualiďŹ ed tutor, these FREE sessions are held in a number of venues across Swansea including libraries and community buildings.

Each course will last for 2 hours a week for 5 weeks.

They are aimed at people with limited or no experience of using computers, iPads or Android tablets to get online.

You can register for one of these courses: 1.

PC beginners course - we provide the computers to use for the course

2. IPad beginners course - bring your own iPad or borrow one of ours for the course sessions 3. Android tablet beginners course - please bring your own Android tablet

For information about dates, times and locations of courses, contact Lifelong Learning in Bryn House on 01792 470171 Alternatively, ask someone to book online for you on www.getswanseaonline.co.uk

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Free exhibition at the Dylan Thomas Centre Open daily from 10am - 4.30pm and with free entry, the Dylan Thomas Centre, in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter, offers an array of exhibitions available throughout the year.

Home to the permanent ‘Love the Words’ exhibition, which opened on 27 October 2014, Dylan’s 100th birthday, the Dylan Thomas Centre celebrates the life and works of the iconic Swansea born writer.

The exhibition tells the story of the work, life and cultural context of Swansea’s world-famous poet.

Follow the interactive timeline that charts Dylan’s life, from his beginnings in Swansea’s Uplands, to his passing in New York in 1953. Find out about his family, friends and the cultural circles in which he moved, from the surrealists to Charlie Chaplin. Listen to Dylan’s voice and the memories of those who knew him best. Explore his worksheets and learn about his writing techniques, then create your own poems on the magnetic poetry board.

There’s something to appeal to younger visitors, too, with a popular Children’s trail around the Exhibition, and family-friendly Learning Space full of books, story games, dressing up clothes and puppets.

The team at the Dylan Thomas Centre are proud to extend the reach of Swansea’s most famous son to wider community groups with their new travelling exhibition. Available for visits to schools, libraries and community centres, the travelling exhibition provides a mere taste of what is available in the Centre’s permanent exhibition.

For more information on the centre, exhibition or travelling exhibition, either e-mail dylanthomas.lit@swansea.gov.uk or call the centre on 01792 463980.

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LocalLinks Local Links provides information about activities taking place in your area. If you have any suggestions of things you’d like us to feature, please get in touch.

Here is information on baby and toddler playgroups in Swansea.

This information was suggested by Members of the Open House Feedback Group

Blaenymaes

Gorseinon

Baby Rhyme Time Songs and rhymes with young children.

Wednesday morning 10.30am - 11.00am.

This event is free.

Fforestfach library, Kings Head Road, Gendros, Swansea SA5 8DA.

Baby Bounce Songs and rhymes with young children.

Suitable for babies up to 12 months.

Every Thursday during term time only 10.00am - 10.30am.

This event is free.

Gorseinon Library 15 West Street, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 4AA.

Eastside Bounce and Rhyme Time Songs and rhymes with young children.

Mondays from 2.00pm - 2.30pm.

This event is free.

St Thomas Library, Grenfell Park Road, St Thomas, Swansea SA1 8EZ.

Gorseinon Baby Rhyme Time Songs and rhymes with young children.

Tuesdays from 2.15pm - 2.45pm.

This event is free.

Gorseinon Library 15 West Street, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 4AA. Baby Rhyme Time Friday 9.30am - 10.00am and 10.30am -11.00am This event is free.

Gowerton Library, Mansel Street, Gowerton, Swansea SA4 3BU.

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Morriston Rhyme Time Every Wednesday 2.15pm - 2.45pm.

This event is free.

Clydach Library, High Street, Clydach, Swansea SA6 5LN. Baby Rhyme Time Every Wednesday 10.30am - 10.45am.

This event is free.

Morriston Library, Treharne Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7AA.

Penlan Bounce and Rhyme Time Every Friday 1.30pm - 2.00pm.

This event is free.

Penlan Library, Heol Frank, Penlan, Swansea SA5 7AH.

Townhill / Mayhill Stay & Play Parent / carer and child session with light lunch.

Monday 9.30am - 12.00pm.

Wednesday 9.30am - 12.00pm.

This event is free.

Mayhill Family Centre, Mayhill Road, Mayhill, Swansea SA1 6TD.

Penlan Busy Feet Interactive stories and movement for under 5s.

Every Monday 2.00pm - 2.30pm.

This event is free.

Penlan Library, Heol Frank, Penlan, Swansea SA5 7AH.

Town Centre Baby and Toddler Rhyme Time Every Tuesday 10.00am - 10.30am.

This event is free.

Brynhyfryd Library, Llangyfelach Road, Brynhyfryd, Swansea SA5 9LH.

Chatter Splatter Don’t wear smart clothes, it’s going to be fun but messy.

Tuesday 9.30am - 11.00am.

This event is free.

Mayhill Family Centre, Mayhill Road, Mayhill, Swansea SA1 6TD. Family fun together followed by melody moments Friday 9.30am - 11.30am.

This event is free.

Mayhill Family Centre, Mayhill Road, Mayhill, Swansea SA1 6TD.

Sketty & West Cross

Playgroup Monday & Wednesday 9.00am - 11.00am.

Plasmarl Community Centre, Dinas Street, Plasmarl, Swansea SA6 8LQ.

Songs and rhymes with young children Wednesday 11.00am - 11.30am.

This event is free.

Oystermouth Library, Dunns Lane, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4AA.

Welsh Playgroup Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 9.30am - 12.00pm.

Treboeth Community Centre: Llangyfelach Road, Treboeth, Swansea SA5 9EL.

Welsh rhyme time Tuesday 11.30am - 12.00pm.

This event is free.

Oystermouth Library, Dunns Lane, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4AA.

Townhill / Mayhill Rhymetime Friday 2.15pm - 2.45pm.

This event is free.

Townhill library, The Phoenix Centre, Paradise Park, Powys Avenue, Townhill, Swansea SA1 6PH.

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Hello, my name is Jenny Hughes and I am the Participation OfďŹ cer. I am covering for Alison Winter whilst she is on maternity leave having recently had a baby girl. This page provides you with an update on tenant involvement in Swansea and news on the local, city and countywide groups.

Tenant Participation Advisory Service Cymru (TPAS Cymru) Swansea Council is a member of The Tenant Participation Advisory Service Cymru (TPAS Cymru) which is a voluntary organisation that provides advice, information and guidance to Social Housing Landlords and tenants throughout Wales.

TPAS Cymru has set up a small team of tenants who they regularly consult with to get input and opinions on issues that impact Welsh housing. They are known as the ‘Pulse Team’ as they are at the heart of a vibrant housing sector in Wales. TPAS Cymru considers them to be their extra eyes, ears and voice in all communities.

TPAS Cymru would like your views on a range of subjects which will then be heard by: UĂŠ 9ÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠ >˜`Â?ÂœĂ€` UĂŠ 9ÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠ ÂœV>Â?ĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜VˆÂ?

UĂŠ 7iÂ?ĂƒÂ…ĂŠ ÂœĂ›iĂ€Â˜Â“iÂ˜ĂŒĂŠ UĂŠ iÞÊ ÂœÂ“Â“Ă•Â˜ÂˆĂŒĂžĂŠ`iVÂˆĂƒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠÂ“>ÂŽiĂ€ĂƒÂ° If you want to join the Pulse Team and have your

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say online, you will be asked to participate in short surveys. Every time you give your views you can win High street vouchers. For more information on TPAS and joining the Pulse team, you can visit the website www.tpas.cymru/pulse

Local Groups Members of Clyne Court Residents Association recently met with council ofďŹ cers and local Councillors to discuss the ongoing refurbishment programme in the blocks of ats. Fire safety and the installation of sprinkler systems were discussed. The

group was pleased with the update and information given and had an opportunity to discuss any concerns with council officers.

are usually lonely, isolated and are often drug users themselves. If you have any concerns about this matter, please contact your local district housing office.

City and County Wide Groups

The Sheltered Reps group met recently in Thomas Harries House, West Cross, with the Community Dementia Support Team. They discussed the impact of living and caring for someone with Dementia. The group shared their experiences and how they felt when dementia has affected them and their families.

The group suggested further meetings with the team to discuss this issue again in the future.

The Open House Feedback Group recently met up to discuss the last edition of Open House. Group members commented on the wide variety of articles and felt that the information provided was very useful and interesting. The group particularly liked the feature on the More Homes Project and provided suggestions for future issues.

The Estate Management Group met with Rebecca

Community Space Drop in sessions are still being held at the Community Space, Tesco Fforestfach every Monday between 1.30pm -3.30pm. Call in for help and advice with general Housing matters.

Tenants’ Consultative Panel

Tribe and Matthew Perkins of the Recycling Team, to discuss recent changes to the recycling facilities within Swansea. They asked for feedback from group members about their experiences of using the new reusable plastic recycling bags.

Any tenant or leaseholder can be a member of the Tenants’ Consultative Panel. As a member you will be asked your views on new service developments or changes to any policies and procedures. This may be undertaken through questionnaires, via email or text, or attending meetings – it is up to you. If you are interested, please get in touch.

Dave Thomas, Manager of Housing’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team also attended to advise the group on an important issue he has been working alongside the police with called ‘Cuckooing’. This is an activity where criminals target the homes of vulnerable people to use their homes for drug dealing. Dave explained that the victims of this crime

If you would like to have your say and get involved you can contact Jenny Hughes, Participation Officer on 01792 635043 or email Jenny.Hughes@swansea.gov.uk.

Text your comments along with your name and address to 07775221453

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Sheltered Housing News There have been a number of celebrations at our complexes since our last edition of Open House.

100th birthday in Pantgwyn

She had a party with her family, carers, the warden Carol Frimston and neighbours in Pantgwyn. The food was fantastic and she’d like to say thank you to the caterer Denise. Everyone enjoyed themselves and had a fabulous time.

Nellie Ingerson of Pantgwyn celebrated her 100th birthday last July by having a party in the complex.

She is one of the original residents of Pantgwyn having lived there since it opened in 1985.

Congratulations on your 100th birthday Nell

She was born in Swansea and grew up in Foxhole near St Thomas before moving to Bonymaen. She also lived in Birmingham where she worked in the ammunitions factories.

Douglas Evans of Mounbatten Court, celebrated his 101st birthday at the complex in June 2017 and a great time was had by all that attended.

Everyone calls her Auntie Nell and she is very generous and has always had a positive outlook on life. She also enjoys all the social activities in the complex.

Fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support at St.Clears Place Janice Green, a resident at St Clears Place in Penlan, recently raised over £200 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Janice dyed her hair pink for a week, and then very bravely had her head shaved.

St Clears Sheltered Housing Warden, Chris Gilling said “we’re all extremely proud of Janice and her brave effort for this very worthy cause, and we would like to say a big thank you to everyone who generously donated money and attended on the day”.

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101st birthday in Mountbatten Court

Sadly, Doug has since passed away and is greatly missed by his neighbours. Doug was a massive rugby fan and was renowned within the complex for his entertaining stories.

Want to move home?

HomeSwapper can help!

If you need to move home, swapping your home with another tenant may be quicker than waiting for a transfer.

Swansea Council is a member of HomeSwapper which is the UK’s biggest home swap service for social housing tenants wanting to swap home both locally and nationally. It’s also free for Swansea Council tenants to register and use.

Visit the website www.homeswapper.co.uk or download the free HomeSwapper app from the Apple App Store or Google Play for Android.

Tips: 90% of successful swaps in 2016 had at least one photo of the home.

Add some photos as it gives people more information about your home. Try to show your home at its best - ask yourself “what does this show someone who has never seen this room before�. Hold the camera in the corner of the room to try and get as much as you can in the picture.

Also remember to log onto your account frequently to check on potential swaps and to ensure your account stays live.

Healthy City Directory Swansea’s community resource for wellbeing and health Swansea’s Healthy City Directory is an on-line resource that enables you to search for a wide range of organisations and groups who can support wellbeing and health.

The Healthy City Directory holds one of the most comprehensive lists in Swansea of groups, clubs and organisations who can offer support, teaching and encouragement for you to help feel healthy and well. Use the search to ďŹ nd information on a range of local and national support organisations.

www.healthycitydirectory.co.uk

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How are we doing?

We are always trying to improve the services provided for tenants and customers. One of the ways we do this is by monitoring our progress year on year to see where improvements can be made. We also use this information when planning our services. We want you to know how we are performing so here are some performance statistics for the financial year 2016/17.

Rent

Housing Stock

At the end of March 2 017, £1,06 was owed 8,554 by current te n a n ts rent arrears in (an increas e of £16,078 compared to end Ma rc h 2016) And forme r tenants o wed £342 (a reductio ,886 n of £33,3 17 compare end March d to 2016).

s (up 7 On 3 April 2017 we managed 13,500 propertie compared to 6 April 2016). of 12 Of these 232 properties were empty (a decrease compared to 4 April 2016). our It took an average of 88.8 days to re-let one of properties compared to 70.3 days in 2015/16.

Moving Home Estate

aretaking Management and C

(down ns were carried out 3963 street inspectio 82 15/16) along with 36 1986 compared to 20 mpared to 2015/16). co 4 p (u ns tio ec sp in property were cial behaviour (ASB) 963 reports of Anti-so increase t Housing Offices (an reported to the Distric 15/16). of 42 compared to 20 e of tisfied with the outcom sa e er w s nt na te of 64% 6). compared to 2015/1 2% p (u se ca B AS r thei - our t by Tend and Mend 706 gardens were cu nerable tenants. service for elderly/vul r estates. were removed from ou 617 tonnes of rubbish ed. ped materials remov tip fly of s ce an st in 1199 .

26 syringes removed

Homelessness

1158 applicants were housed (up 77 compared to 2015/16).

308 tenants moved to another Swansea council home (down 41 compared to 2015/16).

s for 73% of We achieved successful outcome homelessness or households who were at risk of who were homeless.

Tenancy Support 2266 households received support from the Tenancy Support Unit or its partners.

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Adaptations

It took an avera ge of 357 days to provide adapta tions to a coun cil tenant (compa red to an avera ge of 316 days in 2015/16).

270 council ho mes were adapted in 20 16/17.

Energy

Effi

ciency 723 lo fts in c oun proper ties we cil re filled insulat with ion to the cu Buildin rrent g Regu lations betwe en Jun e2 and D ecemb 016 er 2016.

What’s on in your area?

In this edition of Open House we are featuring events held in Blaenymaes at the Blaenymaes Community Centre.

If there are any areas of Swansea that you would like to see featured in future editions of Open House then please let us know!

House Bound A community group for elderly and disabled people meeting to socialise and play games together once a week.

Every Tuesday - 10.00am - 2.00pm. All welcome.

For further information please contact Brian Pridmore 01792 884642

Blaenymaes Wednesday Bingo Group Every Wednesday - 7.30pm - 9.00pm. All welcome.

For further information please contact Brian Pridmore 01792 884642

Blaenymaes Friday Bingo Group Every Friday - 7.00pm - 9.00pm. All welcome.

For further information please contact Helen Davies 07941 431865

Blaenymaes Community Centre Film Club Monthly, on a Friday. Please check display board for dates. All welcome.

For further information, contact Amanda Roberts by email amanda.roberts@gwalia.com or 01792 488011

Boxing Club / Gym Every weekday from 4.00pm. All welcome.

Please contact Paul Grenfell at the centre for further information.

If you’d like to get involved in the work of Blaenymaes Community Centre or would like any further information about events, please contact Arron Bevan-John (Community Development Officer) using the details below: 01792 635449 07920560171 arron.bevan-john@swansea.gov.uk

Open : Issue 1 2018 15

Rent payment methods Forms are available on-line or you can request them from your Rent OfďŹ cer on 601720 / 534094 or email request to Rentsteam@swansea.gov.uk You will need a Payment swipe card, ask your Rent OfďŹ cer, or phone us on 601720 / 534094. Payments made on a Thursday or Friday will not show until the following week Payzone - You can use your Payment swipe card to pay at any retailer that displays the payzone logo. For a list of retailers please visit www.payzone.co.uk By contacting your Rent OfďŹ cer

You can pay using Debit, Switch, Solo, Maestro or Credit Card by ringing 601720 / 534094 or your local DHO during OfďŹ ce Hours

Via the Internet

Please visit the Council’s website www.swansea.gov.uk Click “Do It Onlineâ€? & “Pay for itâ€?. If you have any difďŹ culties, please call on 601720 / 534094 for assistance

Over the phone

At your local Housing OfďŹ ce

If you know your rent reference number, you can phone our automated service English 0300 456 2765 / Welsh 0300 456 2775 at any time. (If you do not know your rent reference please call 601720 / 534094) At the following District Housing OfďŹ ces & Civic Centre: Townhill, Sketty, West Cross, Blaenymaes, Penlan, Town Centre, Morriston, Eastside, (Gorseinon - Card payments only) If you are on Universal Credit your Housing Costs will be paid to you directly by the DWP. Please contact the DWP on 0345 600 0723 if you have not received your Housing costs

16 Open House: Issue 1 2018

Support services Making a new Housing BeneďŹ t Claim

To make a new claim for Housing BeneďŹ t contact the Take Up Team 635885 or email newclaims4beneďŹ ts@swansea.gov.uk

Housing BeneďŹ t

To discuss your existing claim with a Housing BeneďŹ t OfďŹ cer please ring 635353 or email beneďŹ ts@swansea.gov.uk

Financial Inclusion OfďŹ cer

TSU Tenancy Support Unit

If you are having difďŹ culty with paying your rent contact Lesley Jenkins 01792 534064 email rentsteam@swansea.gov.uk The TSU is run by the City & County of Swansea; they can offer a support worker to help with ďŹ nancial problems or any other support issues with your tenancy. Please contact your Rent OfďŹ cer or the Tenancy Support Unit on 774360 if you feel you need support Swansea Citizens Advice Llys Glas, Pleasant St, Swansea SA1 1PE 08444772020 www.adviceguide.org.uk/wales.htm If you are threatened with homelessness they will offer you free advice and assistance 01792 469400 Housing Advice helpline 0845 800 4444 www.sheltercymru.org.uk/shelter/home/

Housing Options

Money advice and debt advice - Also free advice given if your tenancy is at risk. Call at 17 High St, Swansea SA1 1LF 01792 533100 housingoptions@swansea.gov.uk Stepchange Debt Advice 0800 138 1111 www.stepchange.org Want to Work - Workways - If you would like advice on how to get into work Freefone 0800 328 6370 or 01792 637112 www.workways.co.uk Open : Issue 1 2018

17

Contact Information The Council may need to contact you from time to time about your rent, property improvements or any other housing related matters so it is important that we have up to date contact information so we can contact you when necessary. This includes your home phone number, mobile phone number and email address.

The Council is increasingly contacting customers by text message.

Many of the sections within the Housing Service such as the District Housing OfďŹ ces, Rents Team, Housing Options and the Tenancy Support Unit are using text messaging. It is a really good way of getting messages to tenants quickly and we are ďŹ nding that most tenants agree that it is an easy way of responding to us.

Please let us know if any of your contact details change so that we can update our system and continue to contact you when we need to.

Your comments about Open House Do you have any comments about this edition of Open House magazine or any of the articles you have read? If so, you can either write to: Housing Services, City and County of Swansea, Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3SN, Freepost RSCT-JJZH-KLJZ or email to

housing@swansea.gov.uk or phone on

01792 635045

Thank you for your time.

Please let us know if you are happy for your comments to be included in Open House magazine.

Debt Panic?

Push the button!

Debts can be sorted out more easily than you think.

The Debt Panic Button will help you take control, and get proper, free support.

www.debtpanicswansea.org.uk

18 Open House: Issue 1 2018

How would you prefer to receive Open House?

Open House is currently circulated as a paper copy to over 14,000 tenants and leaseholders.

It’s also available in other formats such as CD, large print or on our website.

We are always looking at ways to improve Open House and save on costs at the same time. So we’d like to hear from you if you’d prefer to read Open House online. Instead of sending a paper copy, we’ll send you an email providing you with a link to the latest online version. You can then read it where and when you want to, using your phone, tablet or PC – it couldn’t be easier! This makes it more accessible, sustainable and more cost effective as we’ll be reducing the number of printed copies.

housing@swansea.gov.uk Use the online form www.swansea.gov.uk/ article/8029/Housing-enquiry-form 01792 635045 If you think you’d beneďŹ t from receiving one of the other formats mentioned above, please get in touch.

If you’d like to read Open House online, just contact us using the methods below and quote ‘Open House online’ and provide us with your: UĂŠ

>“iĂŠ>˜`ĂŠ>``Ă€iĂƒĂƒ

UĂŠ i“>ˆÂ?ĂŠ>``Ă€iĂƒĂƒĂŠ UĂŠ ĂŒiÂ?iÂŤÂ…ÂœÂ˜iĂŠÂ˜Ă•Â“LiĂ€Ăƒ Just remember to keep us informed of any changes to your contact details.

If you prefer to continue receiving a paper copy of Open House, there’s no need to do anything.

We welcome your comments or other ideas for improving Open House.

Write to us at: Housing Services, City and County of Swansea, Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3SN, Freepost RSCT-JJZH-KLJZ

Open : Issue 1 2018 19

Legal changes affecting tenants The National Assembly for Wales has introduced some major new laws which will directly affect Council tenants.

Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 The Renting Homes (Wales) Act became law in January 2016 and will affect all Council tenants. The Act aims to simplify the existing tenancy legislation and make it easier and simpler to rent a home. It won’t come into force until at least spring 2019, as the Welsh Government is currently working on the guidance and regulations that Welsh landlords, including the Council, will have to put in place.

What are the changes?

Tenants are becoming Contract-Holders Instead of tenancy agreements, there will be ‘occupation contracts’ – which will be set out by the Welsh Government. When the Act comes into force, all existing tenancy agreements will automatically be replaced by occupation contracts. Council tenants and Housing Association tenants will all have secure contracts.

There will be two types of contract: UĂŠ A Secure Contract - this is based on the secure tenancy agreement currently used for Council accommodation.

UĂŠ A Standard Contract - this is based on the assured shorthold tenancy agreements used by private landlords.

If you are an introductory tenant then you will receive an Introductory Standard Contract, which will convert to a Secure Contact at the end of the period – unless there is a reason for the Council to terminate or extend it.

Many of the legal changes are aimed at improving conditions and security for tenants who are living in the private rented sector and will not affect Council tenants.

20 Open House: Issue 1 2018

Your existing tenancy rights will not be reduced - but there will be some changes which will improve things for you such as: UĂŠ Changes to joint tenancies: A joint tenant leaving will no longer end the whole tenancy.

UĂŠ Succession rights: There will be an additional right of succession and the new Act will also allow resident carers a right to succeed (only family members were previously allowed to succeed a secure tenancy.)

What happens next?

The Welsh Government has said that it wants to implement the changes by spring 2019 but a ďŹ nal date has yet to be decided. A six month consultation period will take place before this happens so that you are fully informed of all the changes.

During this six month period, the Council will consult with existing tenants about any local additions to your occupation contracts. You will be sent out further information by letter and there will be more information made available through Open House and in your District Housing OfďŹ ces. Following this you will be sent a new Occupation Contract from the Council.

Further details can be found on the Welsh Government’s website here http://gov.wales/ topics/housing-and-regeneration/legislation/ rentingbill/?lang=en

Abolition of the Right to Buy and Associated Rights (Wales) Bill The Abolition of the Right to Buy and Associated Rights (Wales) Act 2018 gained Royal Assent on

24 January 2018. The Government has decided to do this in order to protect social housing stock. The Act allows a period of a year for tenants to use their right to buy and means that the abolition of the right to buy will come into force on 26 January 2019. This date is earlier for new build properties and will be on 24th March 2018.

Carmarthenshire, Denbighshire, Anglesey and Flintshire) tenants remain unable to use the Right to Buy, as suspensions will not be lifted before abolition comes into effect. This is a Welsh Government decision. This means that there will not be a 12 month period in Swansea, after the Bill becomes law, where tenants can use the right to buy.

However, the Right to Buy has already been suspended in Swansea and the suspension will remain in place until April 2020.

Further details can be found on the Welsh Government’s website http://gov.wales/topics/ housing-and-regeneration/legislation/abolitionof-right-to-buy-and-associated-rights/?lang=en

In local authority areas where there is a suspension currently in place (which also includes Cardiff,

High Rise Sprinkler Programme Following the tragic loss of life in the Grenfell Tower ďŹ re in London, the Council has decided to install sprinklers to all of its 11 high rise blocks of ats as an additional ďŹ re safety measure. The ďŹ re prevention systems in the high rise blocks are already of a high standard and have been approved by the Fire Service; however the installation of sprinklers will further enhance ďŹ re safety in the blocks.

Jeffrey’s Court in Penlan will be the ďŹ rst block to beneďŹ t from the sprinklers and work will start in early 2018. After its completion, work will commence at the Matthew Street block in Dyfatty followed by the remaining blocks in the City.

be available for tenants and leaseholders to look at so that they can see what their at will look like once the sprinklers have been installed.

The installation will only take a day for each at, with further sprinklers being installed in the communal areas.

Several weeks before work starts in each block, all tenants and leaseholders will be visited by Council OfďŹ cers to let them know the exact date work will start in their at and to answer any questions tenants and leaseholders may have about the programme.

The level of disruption in tenants’ ats will be minimal and before the works start in each block, an empty at with sprinklers already installed will

In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact Darren Whetton on 01792 635035.

Open : Issue 1 2018 21

What is Universal Credit?

The UK Government has introduced a range of changes to the benefit system which mean the way benefits are claimed, paid and received are changing. Universal Credit is the most recent and the biggest change to the benefits system.

Universal Credit is a benefit that is paid to working age people on low income with low/no savings. It is paid whether they are in or out of work, a carer, sick and/or disabled, look after children or need support with housing costs like rent.

Universal Credit replaces Income Support, Income Based Jobseekers Allowance, Income Related Employment and Support Allowance, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and Housing Benefit.

Swansea became a Universal Credit Full Service area on 13th December 2017.

Will you be affected?

UÊ vÊÞ ÕÊ>ÀiÊ vÊÜ À }Ê>}iÊ> `Ê ii`ÊÌ ÊV > Ê>Ê means tested benefit for the first time, you will have to claim Universal Credit.

UÊ vÊÞ ÕÊ> Ài>`ÞÊ}iÌÊ>Ê i> ÃÊÌiÃÌi`ÊLi iwÌÊ> `Ê your entitlement ends because of a change of circumstances, you will need to claim Universal Credit.

UÊ ÞÊV > > ÌÃÊÜ Ê` Ê ÌÊ >ÛiÊ>ÊV > }iÊ vÊ circumstances before July 2019 (and so carry on receiving current benefits) will move over to Universal Credit between July 2019 and March 2022.

What are the main changes Universal Credit brings?

UÊ Online Service - There are no paper claim forms.

Most claims will be made and managed online.

UÊ Initial wait – There is up to 6 weeks wait until the first payment is received by the claimant.

UÊ Monthly payments - Claimants receive one monthly payment which is paid in arrears that includes an element for Housing Costs i.e. rent UÊ Housing Costs - Claimants are expected to pay their rent direct to the landlord.

UÊ Couples - Awards will be paid to one member of a couple.

How do I apply for Universal Credit?

What will you need to claim Universal Credit?

Claims for Universal Credit are made online at www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit

Online access - you will need to be able to access the internet to make and manage your Universal Credit claim.

Once you have submitted your claim you will receive contact to attend an appointment at your local Job-centre with your Work Coach.

If you think you will not have enough money to live on whilst you wait for your first payment speak to your Work Coach about applying for an Advanced Payment.

22 Open House: Issue 1 2018

Email address - you will need an email address to make and manage your Universal Credit claim.

Bank Account - you will need to have a bank or building society account to receive and manage your Universal Credit payments.

Where can you get help with Universal Credit?

Contact your local Jobcentre Plus

Get help from Swansea Council Get digital support to claim Universal Credit UĂŠ /i˜>Â˜ĂŒĂƒĂŠV>Â˜ĂŠVÂœÂ˜ĂŒ>VĂŒĂŠĂŒÂ…iÂˆĂ€ĂŠ ÂœV>Â?ĂŠ ÂˆĂƒĂŒĂ€ÂˆVĂŒĂŠ ÂœĂ•ĂƒÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠ"vwViĂŠÂœĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ Rents Team to discuss further support available.

Universal Credit helpline (DWP) Telephone 0800 328 5644 Welsh language (make a claim) 0800 012 1888 Welsh language (report changes) 0800 328 1744 Textphone 0800 328 1344 Mon to Fri - 8.00am to 6.00pm www.gov.uk/universal-credit

UĂŠ iĂŒĂŠ>ĂƒĂƒÂˆĂƒĂŒ>˜ViĂŠ>˜`ĂŠ>VViĂƒĂƒĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ>ĂŠVÂœÂ“ÂŤĂ•ĂŒiĂ€ĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ Â?>iÂ˜ĂžÂ“>iĂƒĂŠ District Housing OfďŹ ce , the Civic Centre and Libraries.

UĂŠ Ă€iiĂŠ7ˆ‡ ÂˆĂŠÂŤĂ€ÂœĂ›Âˆ`i`ĂŠLĂžĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜VˆÂ?ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠÂ…iÂ?ÂŤĂŠĂžÂœĂ•ĂŠĂœÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠĂžÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠVÂ?>ÂˆÂ“ĂŠ is available in Blaenymaes District Housing OfďŹ ce and also at Libraries.

UĂŠ Ă€iiĂŠ* ĂŠ>˜`ĂŠĂŒ>LÂ?iĂŒĂŠVÂœĂ•Ă€ĂƒiĂƒĂŠvÂœĂ€ĂŠLi}ˆ˜˜iĂ€ĂƒĂŠÂ‡ĂŠ ask in your local library, call 01792 470171 or visit www.swansea.gov.uk/getswanseaonline Personal Budgeting Support UĂŠ /i˜>Â˜ĂŒĂƒĂŠV>Â˜ĂŠVÂœÂ˜ĂŒ>VĂŒĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ,iÂ˜ĂŒĂƒĂŠ/i>“ÊvÂœĂ€ĂŠĂƒĂ•ÂŤÂŤÂœĂ€ĂŒĂŠĂœÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠLĂ•`}iĂŒÂˆÂ˜}° Further information for Swansea residents www.swansea.gov.uk/universalcredit

Your Rent

Council Tax

Universal Credit is paid into your bank, building society or credit union account as a lump sum each month to cover both daily living and housing costs. Housing costs are no longer paid direct to your rent account. This means that if you receive Universal Credit you will have to arrange to pay all of your rent yourself. This is a big change and if you need help in setting up a method of payment that suits you to ensure that your rent is paid, the Council’s Housing Rents Team can help you.

Universal Credit does not include any beneďŹ t for Council Tax. If you claim Universal Credit you will need to make a claim for Council Tax reduction if you have to pay Council Tax.

You can ask about Alternative Payment Arrangements to pay rent direct to the Council and the Rents Team can assist you with this.

It is very important that tenants receiving Universal Credit pay their rent on time to avoid rent arrears. Remember, if you receive Universal Credit, it is your responsibility to pay your rent.

Further information on paying your rent can be found on page 16 of this Open House magazine or on the Councils website www.swansea.gov.uk/howtopayyourrent

Pick up a Council Tax Reduction Application form from your local District Housing OfďŹ ce or go online www.swansea.gov.uk/ claimcounciltaxreduction

If you need support get in touch with the Council’s Rents Team as soon as possible, do not wait they can give you more information and also help and advice on Universal Credit and paying your rent. You can contact the Rents Team on 01792 534094 or rentsteam@swansea.gov.uk

Open : Issue 1 2018 23

Tenants Survey 2017 During 2017, a Tenants’ Survey was sent by post to all council tenants across Swansea. Tenants were asked what they thought about their home, their neighbourhood, the way services are provided, and what they would like to see provided in the future. The information from this survey will help the Housing Service improve services and prioritise resources.

Thank you to all those who took the time to complete the survey. A total of 2,807 surveys were completed and returned to the Council which represents 21% of all tenants.

Prize Draw Our Tenant Participation Officer, Alison Winter, who was on her last day of work before going on maternity leave, picked out the lucky winners who were: 1st Prize £150 Miss E Kinsey from Penlan 2nd Prize £75 Mr C Easton from Clase 3rd Prize £50 Mr I Debru from the City Centre

24 Open House: Issue 1 2018

Leasehold Survey A Leasehold survey was also carried out last year to find out what Council leaseholders think about the service they receive. 118 surveys were returned out of 637 leaseholders – which is an 18.5% return rate.

Thank you to all leaseholders who completed the survey.

There was also a prize draw for leaseholders who completed the survey. The winner was Mrs Edmonds from Sketty who won tickets for the Swansea City vs West Bromwich Albion football match.

More information on the results of the surveys will be included in a future edition of Open House.

Open House: Issue 1 2018 25

Staying Steady Anyone can fall, but older people are more vulnerable and prone to falling, especially if they have a long term health condition.

Most falls do not result in serious injury. However there is always a risk that a fall could lead to broken bones, and it can cause the person to lose confidence, become withdrawn and feel as if they’ve lost their independence. People can drop out of activities and stay home more, feeling bored, frustrated and lonely. The fear of falling can make you less active and this can increase the risk of falling again.

But falling doesn’t have to be a natural part of ageing. There are lots of simple things that you can do to help keep yourself well and stay steady on your feet.

Exercise Exercise is one of the most effective ways to maintain independence and ensure you stay steady on your feet and reduce balance problems.

If you have certain conditions you may need to be careful of vigorous, high-impact exercise or you may feel that you are not well enough to exercise. Please discuss this with your GP or nurse, who will be able to advise you further.

Eat a healthy balanced diet It is important to eat plenty of calcium to help build and maintain healthy bones.

The Food Standards Agency advises that a healthy balanced diet has:

UÊ 7 i}À> ÊÛ>À iÌ iÃÊ whenever possible UÊ - iÊ Ê> `Ê`> ÀÞÊ foods UÊ - iÊ i>Ì]Êwà ]Ê eggs, beans and other non-dairy sources of protein.

Dehydration can lead to low blood pressure and dizziness. Drinking 2 litres of fluid a day will help keep you hydrated, unless you have been specifically told to drink less by a doctor due to a medical condition. Alcohol can affect your balance and may interact with your medication. Check with your pharmacist or GP if you are unsure.

Have your medicines reviewed As we get older the way that medicines work in our bodies changes. Some medicines, or combinations of medicines, can make you sleepy or dizzy and can cause you to fall. This includes medicines you buy over-the-counter. If you are concerned, ask your local pharmacist, GP or nurse to review your medications.

Have your hearing and vision checked Poor vision can increase your risk of falling. Have your eyes checked by an optician at least once a year.

Hearing loss has been associated with a higher risk of falls. You should also have your hearing checked by a professional if you feel it is not as good as it used to be and consider a hearing aid.

UÊ * i ÌÞÊ vÊvÀÕ ÌÊ> `ÊÛi}iÌ>L iÃÊ­>ÌÊ i>ÃÌÊxÊ« ÀÌ ÃÊ a day)

Look after your feet

UÊ * i ÌÞÊ vÊÃÌ>ÀV ÞÊv `Ã]ÊÃÕV Ê>ÃÊLÀi>`]ÊÀ Vi]Ê potatoes and pasta

It sounds simple, but wearing well-fitted shoes and slippers can help reduce your risk of falls.

26 Open House: Issue 1 2018

Cut your toenails regularly and visit a chiropodist if necessary.

Making Your Home Safer

Cryfder

A Chydbwysedd

Hanes o gwympo

Amgylchedd

Most falls occur at home. Be wary of getting out of bed or getting up from a chair if you have been lying or sitting for a while. Your blood pressure can drop when you stand, causing you to become dizzy.

Reducing trips and slips UĂŠ iVÂ?Ă•ĂŒĂŒiÀÊ>˜`ĂŠĂ€iÂ“ÂœĂ›iĂŠ>Â˜ĂžĂŠĂŒĂ€ÂˆÂŤĂŠ hazards such as rugs, boxes, shoes and cables.

UĂŠ />ÂŽiĂŠĂžÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠĂŒÂˆÂ“iĂŠĂœÂ…iÂ˜ĂŠÂ“ÂœĂ›ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠ around your home - rushing to answer the door, or the phone, or going to the loo may cause you to trip and fall.

UĂŠ 1ĂƒiĂŠ>ĂŠÂ…>˜`Ă€>ˆÂ?ĂŠÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂƒĂŒ>ÂˆĂ€ĂƒĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠÂ…iÂ?ÂŤĂŠ you keep your balance.

UĂŠ Â˜ĂƒĂ•Ă€iĂŠĂžÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠÂ…ÂœÂ“iĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠĂœiÂ?Â?ĂŠÂ?ÂˆĂŒĂŠqĂŠĂŒĂ•Ă€Â˜ĂŠ the lights on as you move through your home,especially at night.

UĂŠ iĂœ>Ă€iĂŠÂœvĂŠĂœiĂŒĂŠyÂœÂœĂ€Ăƒ]ĂŠiĂƒÂŤiVˆ>Â?Â?ĂžĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ the kitchen or bathroom.

Discuss any falls you have had with your GP and mention if it has had an impact on your life. You can be assessed to see if there are any interventions that may reduce your risk of falling. They can also help you to access useful services in your local area.

Swansea Council for Voluntary Service in partnership with ABMU Acute Clinical Team has produced a Falls Prevention Guide which provides advice and guidance on Falls Prevention. This guide is available online at www.scvs.org.uk/fallsprevention-guide, and may also be available at your GP surgery, local library or local council ofďŹ ce.

Falls aren’t an inevitable part of growing older Reduce your risk of falls: s3TAYACTIVE s)FYOUHAVEFALLEN TELLSOMEONE s7ATCHYOURSTEP For more information, go to www.ageingwellinwales.com/falls Make a difference - please share this message Further information on helping people to reduce the risk of falls can also be found at www.ageingwellinwales.com/falls

Open House: Issue 1 2018 27

Do you have difďŹ culty accessing your home or the facilities in it?

If so, have you thought of applying for a Disabled Facilities Grant?

Disabled Facilities Grants are available to help and assist elderly and disabled people to access their home, provide facilities within the home and to assist maintain an independent way of living.

Grant funding will help to provide you with much needed adaptations such as: UĂŠ >ĂŒÂ…Ă€ÂœÂœÂ“ĂŠ `>ÂŤĂŒ>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜Ăƒ UĂŠ ,>Â“ÂŤĂƒ UĂŠ Â?ĂŒiĂ€>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ`ÂœÂœĂ€Ăœ>ĂžĂƒ UĂŠ -ĂŒ>ÂˆĂ€Â?ˆvĂŒĂƒ UĂŠ ,ÂœÂœÂ“ĂŠVÂœÂ˜Ă›iĂ€ĂƒÂˆÂœÂ˜Ăƒ UĂŠ Ă?ĂŒiÂ˜ĂƒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠÂ­ÂœÂ˜Â?ĂžĂŠÂˆvĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŒiĂ€Â˜>Â?ĂŠVÂœÂ˜Ă›iĂ€ĂƒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŠ>Ă€iÂ˜Â˝ĂŒĂŠ feasible) You are eligible to apply if you are: UĂŠ ĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜VˆÂ?ĂŠĂŒi˜>Â˜ĂŒ UĂŠ œ“iĂŠÂœĂœÂ˜iĂ€ UĂŠ *Ă€ÂˆĂ›>ĂŒiĂŠĂŒi˜>Â˜ĂŒ You do not need to be registered disabled to apply. An Occupational Therapist will help assess your needs.

The process for applying is straight forward: UĂŠ 7Â…iÂ˜ĂŠĂœiĂŠÂ…>Ă›iĂŠĂ€iViÂˆĂ›i`ĂŠĂžÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠÂ˜>“iĂŠ>˜`ĂŠVÂœÂ˜ĂŒ>VĂŒĂŠ details we can proceed to help you in completing an Initial Enquiry Form.

UĂŠ /Â…iĂŠvÂœĂ€Â“ĂŠĂœÂˆÂ?Â?ĂŠĂŒÂ…iÂ˜ĂŠLiĂŠvÂœĂ€Ăœ>Ă€`i`ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ Occupational Therapy Service Team.

UĂŠ Â˜ĂŠ"VVĂ•ÂŤ>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠ/Â…iĂ€>ÂŤÂˆĂƒĂŒĂŠÂœĂ€ĂŠ ÂˆĂƒ>LÂ?i“iÂ˜ĂŒĂŠ

28 Open House: Issue 1 2018

Assessment OfďŹ cer will visit you and assess what works of adaptations are appropriate for your needs.

UĂŠ vĂŒiĂ€ĂŠĂœiĂŠÂ…>Ă›iĂŠĂ€iViÂˆĂ›i`ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ"VVĂ•ÂŤ>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠ Therapists recommendations, one of our Surveyors will contact you to undertake a full survey of your house and prepare a schedule of works and drawing.

UĂŠ vĂŠĂ€iÂľĂ•ÂˆĂ€i`ĂŠĂœiĂŠĂœÂˆÂ?Â?ĂŠ>ĂƒÂŽĂŠÂœÂ˜iĂŠÂœvĂŠÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠ >ĂƒiĂœÂœĂ€ÂŽiĂ€ĂƒĂŠ to visit you to assist in completing any additional paperwork.

UĂŠ 9ÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠ>ÂŤÂŤÂ?ˆV>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂœÂˆÂ?Â?ĂŠ}ÂœĂŠĂŒÂ…Ă€ÂœĂ•}Â…ĂŠ>Â˜ĂŠ>ÂŤÂŤĂ€ÂœĂ›>Â?ĂŠ Stage, which will take a few weeks.

UĂŠ "˜ViĂŠ>ÂŤÂŤĂ€ÂœĂ›i`ĂŠĂœiĂŠĂœÂˆÂ?Â?ĂŠVÂœÂ˜ĂŒ>VĂŒĂŠĂžÂœĂ•ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ>}Ă€iiĂŠ>ĂŠ start date for the proposed works.

UĂŠ -œ“iĂŠ>ÂŤÂŤÂ?ˆV>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŠĂœÂˆÂ?Â?ĂŠLiʓi>Â˜ĂƒĂŠĂŒiĂƒĂŒi`ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ calculate if you need to pay something towards the work.

To ďŹ nd out more or to apply, contact: Renewals and Adaptations Section, Housing Department.

01792 635330 urbanrenewals@swansea.gov.uk www.swansea.gov.uk/homeadaptations

No nuisance callers, no uninvited traders In a previous edition of Open House we told you about the ‘Your home, your right to say no’ campaign.

Here is another reminder with tips on how to deal with unwanted callers. You can also download a door sticker to tell people you don’t accept uninvited traders or nuisance callers.

1. Check them all and make a call If you believe the person or persons at your front door are there for a genuine purpose, ask for photographic identiďŹ cation and check the details with the company they are representing.

2. Take your time Don’t feel pushed or rushed into agreeing to purchase a service or goods on your doorstep and please do not pay for work before it is completed.

The cancellation period for buying goods on your doorstep is 14 calendar days after the delivery of the goods or commencement of the service, although there are exceptions for bespoke products and emergency repairs. If the service starts immediately, you can still cancel within the 14 days coolingoff period but you may not get a full refund. If permission hasn’t been given to start work there is no requirement to pay.

3. Report it!

By displaying the cut-out door sticker provided on this page you are clearly stating that you do not wish to receive uninvited callers and failure to leave when asked can be an offence. So, if an uninvited trader or nuisance caller persists; if you believe you have been scammed or; a doorstep caller has acted suspiciously, please contact the Police by dialling 101 to report your concerns. Please always dial 999 in an emergency.

Further information can be found at www.swansea.gov.uk/nocoldcalling or contact Trading Standards on 01792 635600, email trading.standards@swansea.gov.uk

Open House: Issue 1 2018 29

Smart Meters Smart gas and electricity meters are being offered to everyone in Wales, Scotland and England at no extra cost, between now and 2020.

Smart meters are the new generation of gas and electricity meters, which will replace the traditional meters in our homes.

You will receive an in-home display, which shows exactly how much energy you’re using, as you use it, and what it is costing in pounds and pence.

Bills will be accurate, not estimated as your meter readings will be shared directly with your energy supplier through a secure wireless network.

In the future, switching between suppliers, or between credit and prepay, will be quicker and easier. Prepay customers will be able to top up online or via mobile phone.

Smart meters are ďŹ tted by energy suppliers and they come at no extra cost, so you won’t need to pay

anything extra for the upgrade.

You also do not need permission from us (as your landlord) to get a smart meter ďŹ tted.

Contact your energy supplier today about installing your smart meter.

For more information visit: www.smartenergygb.org/en

Trysorau’r Tip T Tip Treasures T Reuse Shop

Quality second hand goods available for bargain prices!

ys da 0pm 7 n 4.3 pe O 0am 3 9.

Siop Ailddefnyddio

• Furniture • Homeware • Flat Screen TV’s • Electrical Goods • DVDs & CDs • Outdoor & Garden • Vinyl Records • Much, Much More!

Need to get rid of household items which are too good to tip?

Donations are gratefully received.

Llansamlet Recycling Centre, Ferryboat Close, Swansea Enterprise Park, SA6 8QN

www.swansea.gov.uk/reuseshop

30 Open House: Issue 1 2018

The National Minimum Wage - are you getting it?

By law, almost all workers aged 25 and over must be paid at least the National Living Wage, or, if younger, the National Minimum Wage.

The Government usually increases the minimum wage rates annually on 1st April.

Workers that are being paid at or slightly above the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage could still be missing out. This can happen if their employer makes mistakes in calculating pay. Common errors include: UĂŠ Paying staff at the wrong rate by failing to implement annual rate increases, such as missing their birthdays meaning they are not moving workers from one age band to another.

Errors can also happen when the apprentice rate is applied incorrectly.

UĂŠ Making deductions or payments connected to the job which can take pay below the legal rates.

For example, asking staff to pay for uniforms, meals, tools or safety clothing.

UÊ Including tips, shift allowances or bonuses as a part of a worker’s pay to bring their pay up to National Minimum Wage rates.

UÊ Unpaid working time which are additional hours worked but not paid. These can be regular periods of time such as time spent helping to shut up a shop or clearing security after a worker’s shift has ended.

UĂŠ Worker status errors by mistakenly treating workers as either volunteers or self-employed.

To ďŹ nd out more about self-employed status for workers go to www.gov.uk.

UÊ Charging workers for accommodation and not applying the £44.80 weekly accommodation offset allowance correctly. The accommodation offset is the amount allowed to be deducted before it impacts a worker’s pay for the purpose of National Minimum Wage. For more information about accommodation offset can be found at www.gov.uk.

UĂŠ Not paying a worker for time spent training, travelling between appointments or other working time.

What you can do If you are unsure whether you or someone you are helping is being paid the correct National Minimum Wage you can ask them to call the Acas Helpline on 0300 123 1100 to get more advice. Alternatively workers can make an online complaint on www.gov.uk by searching for ‘Pay and work rights complaints’. HMRC will not tell the employer a worker’s name without their permission.

Open House: Issue 1 2018 31

Real Nappy Cashback Scheme Make the Switch to Real (reusable) nappies today and the City and County of Swansea will reimburse you up to £100 towards the cost!

Why Switch?

Up t o

£ 100 !

Reduce Waste! In a 21/2 year period, an average child will use approximately 5000 nappies. That’s 156 black bags going to landfill.

Save Money! You could save up to £500 per year on disposable nappy costs.

No more Nappy Rash! Real nappies are made out of natural fibres so they won’t irritate the baby’s skin.

Easy to Use and Wash! Velco and popper fastenings mean no pins are needed and nappies are machine washable.

Fun! They come in a wide range of designs and fabrics.

How to apply The scheme is available for all residents of the City and County of Swansea. For a full list of terms and conditions and to apply for the scheme visit

www.swansea.gov.uk/nappies recycling@swansea.gov.uk 01792 635600

32 Open House: Issue 1 2018

In Swansea we give our children the Best Start in life Yn Abertawe rydym yn rhoi’r Dechrau Gorau mewn bywyd i’n plant Rydym yn gwybod mai mewn meithrinfeydd neu gylchoedd chware mae ein plant yn dysgu ac yn cwrdd â ffrindiau newydd.

We know that nursery and playgroups are where our children learn and make new friends.

Ffoniwch 01792 517222 am wybodaeth am y cynnig gofal plant a ariennir gan Lywodraeth Cymru.

Call 01792 517222 for information on the Welsh Government funded childcare offer.

Call FIS for FREE, quality, impartial information on a range of childcare, children’s, family support and family related topics.

Ffoniwch GGD am wybodaeth ddiduedd, o safon ac am ddim am amrywiaeth o bethau megis gofal plant, cefnogaeth i blant a theuluoedd a phynciau cysylltiedig.

01792 517222 @swanseafis

@SwanseaFIS

@BestStartSwansea

@BestartSwansea

Open House: Issue 1 2018 33

2401-17 Dyluniwyd ac Argraffwyd gan Adran Argraffu Heddlu De Cymru. Designed and Printed by South Wales Police Print Department.

Camfanteisio'n Rhywiol ar Blant Adnabod yr arwyddion

Child Sexual Exploitation Know the signs

A yw plentyn yn eich gofal...

Is a child in your care...

I Yn mynd ar goll I Yn ymwneud â ffrindiau newydd sy'n oedolion I Yn colli ysgol I Yn ymddwyn yn gyfrinachol

I Going missing I Associating with new adult friends I Skipping school I Behaving secretly

RIPORTIWCH EF.

REPORT IT.

Ffoniwch 101 neu 999 mewn argyfwng

Call 101 or 999 in an emergency

Can we help you?

Do you have difficulty reading small print or perhaps you sometimes feel bogged down by the amount of information you see on letters, leaflets and application forms.

If this is the case we can provide information to you in other ways. We can send you information in Large Print, Braille, or on a Compact Disc. If you are a Welsh Speaker or are learning the language we can also provide information to you in Welsh.

To receive information in an alternative format, please let the staff at your District Office know or contact the Customer Services Team on 01792 635045 housing@swansea.gov.uk If you need help completing a form that we have given you, please ask your District Office staff for help.

A private interview room is available if you do not wish to do this at the reception counter. All of our District Housing Offices have hearing loop systems,

34 Open House: Issue 1 2018

hand held magnifying glasses, signature guides, large grip pens and other aids which are available for use at the reception desk or interview room.

It’s important to us that you are able to have access to all of the services which are available to you from the Housing Service; so if you would like us to do things differently for you, please just ask and we will be pleased to do so.