Our House, Winter 2012 by The Accord Group

DECEMBER 2012

News from around the Group Benefit changes - your questions answered

Top tips to avoid New Year debt

Families flock to fun day

Prizes up for grabs

p16

Get online and get ahead with free internet training Residents who are interested in learning how to use the internet are being invited to sign up to a series of free taster sessions.

he sessions, open to all residents and service users of the Accord Group, are taking place now until March next year at venues across the Midlands. Each workshop is designed to give attendees a taster of using the internet to do everything from applying for benefits and managing their money to searching for jobs and enrolling on training courses.

Christmas and New Year opening times The Customer First contact centre which deals with enquiries from all members of the Accord Group (except

Lasting for two hours, the sessions are informal and interactive and are open to everyone regardless of their age or experience of IT. Louise Creswick, Resident Engagement Co-ordinator for the Accord Group, said:

“Being able to use the internet is really beneficial as you can use it to do everything from your weekly food shop to applying for a job. for Fry Housing Trust) will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Customers of Fry Housing Trust should contact their scheme manager or support worker for opening times during the festive period. Customer First will re-open temporarily

News from the Accord Group

“The changes to benefits also mean that people will be expected to apply for them online and manage their claim through an online account, which is another good reason to learn more about the internet.” To register your interest in attending a session, call the Resident Engagement team on 0300 111 7000 extension 2067/2064 or email reteam@ accordgroup.org.uk Dates of sessions can be found on page 15. on Thursday, 27 December, Friday, 28 December and Monday, 31 December from 10am to 2pm to handle emergency enquiries. An emergency out of hours service will be available at all other times by calling 0300 111 7000.

And the winner is... The winners of the Great Resident Awards - as nominated by you -can now be revealed. Residents presented with trophies included: Ian Cook, Cecil Cowdell, Humphrey Fitzgerald, Sophie Mckay, Joan Proctor, Doris Tranter, Andrew Bennett, Adam Burnham, Martin Jennings and the Old Vicarage Social Committee. The winners were presented with their awards at a special ceremony on Wednesday, 14 November at Wolverhampton Race Course. You can find out more about some of the winners inside this newsletter. Please remember the emergency out of hours service is there to assist with emergency repairs and/or serious incidents of anti-social behaviour. Customer First will re-open fully from 8am on Wednesday, 2 January and we expect to

very busy, especially between the hours of 9am to 2pm. We strongly advise that all non-emergency enquiries are emailed to customerfirst@ accordgroup.org.uk to avoid any delays in getting through to the team.

DECEMBER 2012

Message from the Editor

ello and welcome to the December edition of your newsletter, Our House. December is a time of celebration for many and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by announcing the winners of our Great Resident Awards. The awards took place

just a few weeks ago and we’d like to congratulate the winners and everyone else who was nominated for an award. We received scores of nominations from staff and residents and it was a difficult task for our judges to pick the winners. You can find out who won and more about some of the winners right here in Our House.

responds to your calls and emails. They carried out mystery shopping exercises to collect information on how well Customer First is doing and benchmarked the results against other housing associations. The results of their inspection are currently being collected and will

work of the Accord Group. There are a host of ways that you could make a difference, such as becoming an armchair auditor, which you can read all about below. Lastly, I would like to wish you a Happy Christmas on behalf of everyone at the Accord Group.

Hunt is on for armchair auditors

Resident advisors carry out first inspection esidents who have signed up to become improvement and scrutiny advisors have completed their first inspection. The advisors, who work alongside the Scrutiny Panel, examined the services of Customer First, the Accord Group contact centre which

Another cause for celebration is the free internet training sessions that we will be running until March next year. You can read all about these on the front page of this newsletter. If you’re already looking ahead to the New Year and the resolutions that you’d like to make, why not make one of them getting involved in the

landscaping and repairs. Once the results of the checks have been collected, a report will be issued from the Accord Group to the auditors explaining the results. If you’d like to become an ‘armchair auditor’, call Abdul Mumith on 0300 111 7000 extension 9031 or email reteam@ accordgroup.org.uk

e are on the hunt for budding resident auditors to carry out spot checks on our services from the comfort of their own homes. The Resident Engagement team is appealing for ‘armchair auditors’ to carry out checks on areas such as communal cleaning,

be published in a future edition of Our House. If you’d like to become an improvement and scrutiny advisor, call Abdul Mumith on 0300 111 7000 extension 9031 or email reteam@ accordgroup.org.uk

1, 2 and 3. Accord Group Louise Creswick, Joan Halstead and Abdul Mumith 0300 111 7000 extension 2064, 2067, 9031 or email reteam@ accordgroup.org.uk

4. Caldmoreaccord (Darlaston) Fiona Perry 0300 111 7000 extension 3938 or email fiona.perry@caldmore accordha.org.uk 5. Ashram Housing Association Gopal Karir 0300 111 7000 extension 3828 or email gopalk@ashramha.org.uk

News from the Accord Group

Benefit changes

Your questions answered

s you’ll have read in Our House, the benefits system is changing.

If you receive Housing Benefit, Job Seekers Allowance, Disability Living Allowance or a range of other benefits you will be affected.

To help you to understand some of the changes and to act now to prepare for them, we’ve answered your questions.

1: If I’m already claiming benef its do I need to reapply for them online? The Government is aiming to make online applications the way everyone makes and updates claims. However, there may be some telephone or face-to-face support for people who need help from the Department for Work and Pensions. We don’t know all the details yet, but we will continue to keep you updated in this newsletter.

2: What age groups do the changes to benef its apply to? The changes apply to people of working age, so if you are aged 16 to 61 years old by April next year, you will be affected.

3: If my circumstances change wil I need to go back online to explain this? As far as we’re aware, yes. However, the Department for Work and Pensions has said that there will be a helpline - although details of this are yet to be announced. If your circumstances do change, you can also get advice from your housing officer.

4: Wil these changes affect my Council Tax? Council Tax will continue to be administered by your local council, but any council tax benefit is likely to be reduced by at least 10 per cent depending on where you live. These reductions will only apply to people of a working age.

5: How wil the changes affect me if I’m under 25 years old? The reforms apply to anyone between the ages of 16 to 61 years old, so if you fall into this age bracket and are claiming benefits you will be affected.

Your resident engagement team

DECEMBER 2012

6: How wil my benef its be paid to me and when?

6 and 7. bchs Chrissie Muirhead and Phil Brown email chrissie@bchs.org.uk or philb@bchs.org.uk or call 0121 764 3808 8. Caldmoreaccord (Caldmore Green) Nazir Ahmed 01922 728 235 or email Nazir.Ahmed@ caldmorehousing.co.uk

9. Fry Housing Trust Kimberley Evans 0121 559 9081 or email kimberleye @fryha.org.uk

Abdul Mumith 0300 111 7000 extension 9031 or email amumith@ accordgroup.org.uk

2 and 3. Moseley and District Housing Association Joan Halstead 0300 111 7000 extension 5006 or email joanh@ accordgroup.org.uk

10. Redditch Co-operative Homes Hazel Lengden 01527 591170 or email hazel@rch.coop

You’ll receive one payment each month into your bank account. From this, you’ll need to cover your bills, including your rent. The best way to make sure everything is paid on time is to set up direct debits. If you don’t have a bank account, you need to open one soon. Your housing officer will be able to help you to do this. If you have a question that we haven’t answered or want to know how the changes will affect you, call your housing officer on 0300 111 7000 or speak to your support worker.

Low cost phone package could ring your bell

re you on a low income but still want to be able to make and receive telephone calls? Then BT may be able to help you. BT Basic is a low-cost telephone service for people claiming Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment Support Allowance (Income related) or Pensions

Credit (Guaranteed Credit). The service lets you make and receive calls and helps you to manage how much you spend. To find out more about the benefits of this service, go to www. bt.com/includingyou/btbasic-applying.html To request a BT Basic application form call 0800 800 864 (8am-6pm Monday-Friday).

Robert rides to victory with prize win

lucky resident from Wolverhampton is enjoying a new lease of life after winning a top bike. Robert Jenkins, aged 63, scooped the brand new bike in a prize draw organised by Accord Group contractor Lovell. Lovell ran the competition at this year’s Accord Group Resident Conference, which was held at the Paragon Hotel in Birmingham. Robert, who was presented with his prize by

Stacey Tyler from Lovell, said:

“This couldn’t have come at a better time. I’m recovering from some health problems at the moment and started going down the gym a couple of weeks ago to get a bit fitter. This bike is just what I need.”

Lovell undertakes day-to-day repairs and provides a 24-hour a day reactive repairs service to a number of Accord Group homes.

“... and how we can work together to get ready for the changes.” “We’re here to help you find out about your benefits...”

“Look out for us and other characters next year.” Robert Jenkins is presented with his bike prize.

News from the Accord Group

DECEMBER 2012

Over 1,000 homes to receive eco upgrades

s part of our on-going bid to make homes more energy efficient and save you money on your energy bills, we are ‘making over’ more than 1,000 homes across the West Midlands. The work will include a number of upgrades including, the installation of external wall insulations, new ‘A’ rated boilers and central heating systems, loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and draught proofing. Once the works are completed, the 1,000 homes being ‘made over’ could see their fuel costs reduce by up to £350 a year.

Alert! Job and training opportunities As part of this energy efficiency work, we have a number of job and training opportunities available to you, these include: • Six external wall insulation fitter placements. No previous skills or experience needed. Full training provided. • Twenty photo-voltaic roof panel fitters. Previous experience in either plumbing or electrical works preferred, although additional training will be provided. If you’re interested in the above opportunities, call Kally Bhatti, Jobs and Skills Co-ordinator, on 0121 442 5008 or email kally@accordgroup.org.uk In the next few months other programmes, developed by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), such as the Green Deal will offer you the opportunity to make your homes warmer,

more efficient and reduce fuel bills. For more information about how you can make your home more energy efficient, email Paul White at paulw@ accordgroup.org.uk

ver the last year, we have been asking you to fill in a survey so that we can get to know you better. We can now reveal that a staggering 80 per cent of you have done this and we’d like to thank everyone who took the time to complete a ‘Getting to Know You’ form. We asked you to fill in a survey so that we can tailor our services to you and provide the information and support that you need. The survey was also your chance to let us know if anything’s changed in your household. If you haven’t yet filled in a survey, or your circumstances have changed, please contact

pay your rent

Don’t start the New Year in debt -

o one wants to start the New Year in debt, so it’s really important that you pay your rent and other bills over Christmas. Here are our top tips on making sure that your finances don’t snowball out of control this winter. 1: Rent first. It’s vital that you continue to pay your rent as missing payments could result in you losing your home. If you’re having problems paying your rent, contact

The results are in! Survey success revealed

us as soon as possible. 2: Don’t be tempted by door step lenders. Their rates of interest can be very high so instead, contact your local Credit Union (findyourcreditunion. co.uk) or My Home Finance (myhomefinance. org.uk or 0845 838 7597) for realistic loans. 3: Be realistic and budget accordingly. Christmas can be an expensive time of the year so plan early, budget accordingly and manage

News from the Accord Group

expectations about what you can afford to give. 4: Shop around. Whether it’s for Christmas presents, food or the company that suppliers you gas and electric – you never know how much you can save. 5: Be organised. If you’ve borrowed money it won’t be long before you have to make a payment. Make sure you pay on time or you could be faced with additional charges.

6: Get advice. There are lots of organisations out there to help you get debt free. For free and independent advice, go to nationaldebtline.co.uk, citizensadvice.org.uk or moneymadeclear. fsa.gov.uk If you’re worried about falling into debt, call your housing officer or speak to your support worker. You can also contact debt charity Step Change for free by calling 0800 138 1111.

your housing or support worker or the Customer First contact centre on 0300 111 7000 or email customerfirst@ accordgroup.org.uk The winners of the survey prize draw (who will also be notified via post) are: Mr G Griffith, Mr S Carson, Miss H Ellis, Mr M Osborne, Ms E Deer, Mrs J Marvania and Mrs A Ali. A plan for keeping your information updated on a yearly basis is being developed and more information on this and the results of the survey will be in the next Our House.

DECEMBER 2012

Pay your rent the easy way

Ian scoops scrutiny award

an Cook from Victoria Cooperative in Birmingham scooped the Best in Scrutiny award at this year’s Great People Awards for his work in shaping the resident inspector project. Congratulations Ian, were you surprised to win? I was extremely surprised. Even being nominated was a surprise. When they announced the winner I was clapping thinking it was someone else who had won before I released it was me.

How did you feel when you were presented with the award? I felt very honoured. The resident inspector project is all about investigating different services to see if we can make them more effective or cost less and it’s nice to be recognised for this work.

What would you say to people thinking about getting involved in the work of the Accord Group? If you want to know how things work and make them better, get involved.

Latest Redditch co-operative

comes together

and are working with RCH to choose designs for their new bathrooms and kitchens. They are also meeting regularly with RCH to learn more about the processes involved in being a co-operative. Once completed, Chariot Springs will be the largest Norwegian timber frame housing

your account most commonly on a monthly basis. It is easy to set up, ensures that you never miss a payment and we can help you to do it. To set up a direct debit, Redditch Co-operative Homes’ residents can call 01527 591 170.

Tackling anti-social behaviour in your co-ops

Ian Cook (L) is presented with his award.

he latest co-operative to be built and managed by Redditch Cooperative Homes (RCH) is starting to take shape. The first residents of Chariot Springs (formerly known as Marlfield) have been allocated properties

f you rent your home with Redditch Cooperative Homes, there’s an easy way to make sure that you always pay your rent on time. A direct debit is a regular payment that comes straight out of

development in the UK and will boast 79 homes made out of panels imported from Norway. The development will also include other features such as allotments for residents to grow their own fruit and vegetables. H ow the new homes will look.

edditch Cooperative Homes and bchs take anti-social behaviour very seriously and we will work with you to tackle it. If you are experiencing anti-social behaviour, here are the steps you should take: 1: If you feel you are able to, speak with the neighbour concerned. It’s amazing how much of a difference this small step

can make. 2: If the problem persists, contact us. We will be able to provide the appropriate advice and guidance in relation to your circumstances. 3: Keep diary notes of any incidents so that they can be referred to when discussing your case. You can find blank diary sheets and more guidance on our website at www.rch.coop/asb or www.bchs.coop/asb

Survey thank you

e would like to thank all Redditch Co-operative Homes and bchs co-operative members and residents for filling

out and sending back a ‘Getting to Know You’ survey. You can read more about the surveys on page 4 of this newsletter.

Office Christmas and New Year opening times

edditch Co-operative Homes’ office at Britten Street will close for Christmas and New Year on Friday, 21 December at 1pm.

The office will re-open at 9am on Wednesday, 2 January 2013. For the opening hours of the Customer First contact centre, please turn to the front page of this newsletter. News from rch and bchs

DECEMBER 2012

Families flock to annual fun day

gives the event The Mayor of Solihull his seal of approval.

as drummers Little beats, big sounds . of all ages celebrate

etting cultural: youngsters G explore the world.

60 seconds with...

What is your name and what do you do? My name is Rachel Perks and I am Senior Neighbourhoods and Employment and Skills Coach. I help residents get into training and jobs by up-skilling them and giving career advice. My work in the Neighbourhoods’ team involves helping residents to be more involved in their community.

What does your job involve? My job involves providing one- to-one coaching support, identifying training opportunities, helping to improve interview skills and CVs. My work with residents in the Bordesley Green area is focused on developing projects to improve the neighbourhood. How long have you worked in your current job and what did you do before? I have worked as a Neighbourhood Development Officer at Ashram for six months, supporting residents in Bordesley Green. I then started my new post in October which combines neighbourhood

News from Ashram Housing Association

development and employment support. Previously, I managed an over 55’s support service. What do you enjoy about your job? I enjoy meeting new people and seeing them grow in confidence and reach their potential. How as a resident can I get involved? If you’re looking to get into work or training or even if you would just like to talk to me about doing a project around improving your local area, please contact me How can I contact you? You can email me at rachel.perks@ashramha. org.uk or call me on 0121 764 3811.

family fun day attended by the Mayor of Solihull went off with a bang as a troupe of drummers launched the event. The Dhol drummers were amongst a number of musical acts to perform at the free ‘One Solihull’ event, held at the Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre. Organised by Ashram Housing Association in partnership with Solihull Community Housing, the event featured a host of stalls promoting history, health, fashion and food.

Visitors were also treated to performances from award winning street dance crew Pressurize, African drummer Asha Barnes and local rapper Arty Sketcha. The event, on Saturday, 20 October, celebrated Black History Month and World Mental Day. Joyce Wallace, Health and Wellbeing Activities Co-ordinator at Ashram, said:

“The event was truly a multi-generational and multi- racial success; building awareness, providing entertainment and promoting cohesion.”

You said, we did

e take your complaints and requests seriously, so here we’ll explain how we are improving our services for you. Residents living in Nuneaton told us that they felt left out of

Ashram’s regular estate walkabouts because the association has fewer homes in the area than other neighbourhoods. As a result, housing officers carried out a walkabout in October and have scheduled future walkabouts throughout next year.

DECEMBER 2012

Walkabouts with a difference

id you know that our housing officers carry out regular walkabouts in your estates and neighbourhoods? They are a great opportunity for you to flag up any concerns you may have or ask us questions about where you live. To make sure that we continue to provide the

best services to you, future walkabouts are now going to include more than ever before. Not only will you be able to meet housing officers face-to-face but you’ll be able to get information and advice about: • Employment and training opportunities from a qualified coach • Changes to benefits and welfare

• Support service for over 50s, Taste for Life Birmingham Estate walkabouts are held on a monthly basis and a letter will be sent to you to let you know that we are coming beforehand. To find out more about the walkabouts, call your housing officer on 0300 111 7000.

Pupils get employment support as part of new project

ver 1,000 school pupils in Birmingham are set to benefit from a Government-funded initiative that will support and prepare them for the world of work. Schools Linking Network (SLN) and Ashram Housing Association are working with 30 secondary schools over the next three years as part of the project. It will target pupils who are set to enter the workplace, focusing on

new dropin clinic for people looking to quit smoking has opened in Coventry. The clinic will be held at Ashram Housing Association’s Ribbon Court Extra Care Scheme in Foleshill every Friday.

Run in partnership with the NHS, the clinic is open to residents of the scheme, their family members and the local community. To find out more, call Kim Gill, Resident Engagement and Wellbeing Worker, on 0121 358 9051.

Queen thanks residents for jubilee wishes

R osie Ginday (R) helps launch the project.

equipping them with the skills that they need to get jobs or start their own enterprises. Birmingham’s pilot is part of a national

initiative which will bring together the business community and more than 120 schools across the UK.

First time tenants to get support managing finances ore than 6,000 first time social housing residents in Birmingham are to be offered help managing their finances as part of a new initiative. The ‘Pay Ahead, Stay Ahead’ scheme will target those at risk of becoming

Stub it out with a little help

homeless due to rent arrears by teaching techniques to equip them with the skills to sustain their tenancies. Councillor John Cotton, Cabinet Member for Social Cohesion & Equalities, said: “Ashram’s Improving Financial Confidence project will help

thousands of young Birmingham people develop those vital skills. This is good news for young people and good news for Birmingham.” It will be funded by a grant from the Big Lottery Fund. For more information about the project, call Natalie Jones on 0300 111 7000.

he Queen has thanked residents of an Ashram sheltered housing scheme for a card that they sent her to mark her jubilee year. Resident of Kalyan Ashram in Sparkbrook, Birmingham, sent the Queen a card packed full of messages wishing her a happy diamond jubilee.

Buckingham Palace has since responded to the residents thanking them for “the splendid card and kind messages”. Diamond jubilee celebrations are taking place throughout this year to mark the 60th anniversary of the accession of Queen Elizabeth II to the throne.

Office Christmas and New Year opening times

shram’s office at Fairgate House in Tyseley will close for Christmas and New Year on Monday, 24 December at 1pm. The office will re-open at 9am

on Wednesday, 2 January 2013. For the opening hours of the Customer First contact centre, please turn to the front page of this newsletter.

News from Ashram Housing Association

DECEMBER 2012

Property firm sow the seeds for a brighter future Around 25 kindhearted volunteers from a property company branched out when they spent time sprucing up a garden at a Fry Housing Trust scheme. The Trust’s Solihull scheme was chosen as Lend Lease’s community project of the year and as a result received a garden make-over worth around £2,000. Work included trimming hedges and foliage, replacing and painting fencing, installing bird boxes and

planting new shrubs and flowers. An outdoor recreational area was also created and new rotary washing lines were also installed.

Steve Watts, Manager of Fry Housing Trust’s Solihull scheme, said: “We are very grateful to Lend Lease for choosing us as their project of the year and to the staff for giving up their time to make-over our tired looking garden.”

ntries to this year’s Christmas card competition have flocked in and we’d like to thank everyone for taking part.

s deep with S teve Watts (centre) dig Lend Lease.

Tell us about Coventry? Coventry is the ninth largest city in England and the thirteenth largest in the UK. It is home to The Ricoh Arena which won the bid to be the only

Midlands venue to host the London 2012 Olympic Football Tournament. During the games, the Arena was known as the City of Coventry Stadium and hosted 12 games over eight days. What can I do in Coventry? There are lots of things to do in the city, from shopping and sightseeing to eating out and relaxing. One

of Coventry’s most famous landmarks is the cathedral, which was re-built after it was severely bombed during World War II. For a free day out you can visit The Motor Museum, The Herbert Art Gallery or if it’s a nice day walk around the War Memorial Park.

porty clients and staff are celebrating after completing a gruelling ‘wild’ race which raised cash for a good cause. Six clients and two members of staff took part in the Wolf Run Challenge, a race across

T he Ricoh Arena, Coventry.

natural terrain including open ground, woodland, lakes and mud. Clients and staff completed the Leamington Spa run in less than an hour and a half, raising money for the Trust’s benevolent fund.

and

DECEMBER 2012

News from care and support schemes across the Group

Residents take a bite out of club

Review of the year

Meet the team behind tasty meals

Personalisation – your questions answered

New service to provide a helping hand to older people in Telford A specialist service to help older people leaving hospital or recovering from an illness at home to get back on their feet has been launched.

Where are the best places to eat? There is a huge variety of restaurants and takeaways in the city catering to all sorts of tastes and budgets. Why not check out the coventry-restaurants. co.uk for reviews of eateries across Coventry. S taff and clients celebrate race triumph.

News from Fry Housing Trust

Packs of the winning cards will be handed out to you to send to your friends and family and will also be available to buy. All money raised from card sales will go towards the Trust’s benevolent fund, which supports clients to move on from supported accommodation.

Race success in Wolf Run

Coventry n this edition of Our House, clients and staff from our Coventry scheme tell you all you need to know about the city.

Festive competition entries flock in

Care Support

esigned to help older people to readjust to life after a stay in hospital or when recovering from an illness in their own home, the ‘Rehabilitation and Reablement’ service provides a package of short-term support. Support includes up to six weeks of accommodation and support at care scheme Cartlidge House and a programme of treatment,

including physiotherapy and help with everyday tasks such as cooking and cleaning. David Williams, Director of Care and Support for the Accord Group, said: “It can be daunting to leave hospital and know that you are going back to an empty home or suffering an illness and losing your sense of independence.

“This service is a vital tool in helping people to recuperate and readjust to life

News from Care and Support

after a hospital stay, illness or loss of independence.” The service is run on a referral basis only and is open to anyone over the age of 65 who lives in the Telford and Wrekin borough. Referrals must be made via Telford and Wrekin Primary Care Trust (PCT) and the service is funded by Telford and Wrekin Council.

Former footballer boings back in time for unique digital project A grandad of six has toured West Bromwich Albion’s football ground more than 60 years after he played for the top flight club as part of a digital project. Tom Bromley, from West Bromwich, used to sweep the terraces at the Albion’s stadium, The Hawthorns, before he started playing for the club’s youth team in the 1940s. The 79-year-old was given the opportunity to visit the Club as part of a special project being run by the Accord Group’s Dementia Café support groups. To find out more about the project and the Dementia Cafes, turn to page 2.

DECEMBER 2012

Message from the Editor

Happy reading

ello and welcome to the December edition of Our House Care and Support. This section of Our House is especially for residents of our care and support schemes and for those of you who use our support services. As 2012 draws to a close, it’s the perfect

Take a bite out of fruity Friday’s

esidents in Birmingham are being encouraged to take a bite out of a new activity that is all about discovering new fruity flavours. Fruity Friday sessions, where residents have the chance to try a range of exotic fruits, are being held weekly at Moseley and District’s Carpenter Place scheme. The first session saw residents dig into kiwi fruit and mango, savouring the textures, tastes and colours of

different fruits whilst also encouraging residents to talk about their different cultures.

Dorrell Townsend, Care and Support Manager, said: “Healthy eating is important at any age and Fruity Fridays offer residents the chance to try new fruits which they can then choose to introduce into their daily diet.”

If you live at Carpenter Place and would like to take part in Fruity Fridays, speak to the scheme manager.

opportunity to look back and reminisce about everything that has happened across your schemes this year. From the expansion of new services like the Accord Group’s Dementia Cafes to all the different activities and events that have taken place, it’s been an exciting year. You can read a review of the year on page 3.

Next year looks set to be just as interesting as 2012, with some important changes coming up such as personalisation – you can read all about this on page 4. In this edition you can also meet the awardwinning team behind the catering service at the Accord Group’s Cartlidge House scheme and find out about new

activities taking place at Moseley and District’s Carpenter Place scheme. Don’t forget to also enter our competitions on page 16, where you could be in with the chance of winning some top prizes. Lastly, I would like to wish you a Happy Christmas on behalf of everyone at the Accord Group.

DECEMBER 2012

Review of the year

s 2012 draws to a close, we look back on the different activities and events that have taken place at care and support schemes across the Midlands this year.

supported to compile his life story using My Life Digital Reminiscence Therapy Software. The lifelong Baggies fan and former footballer was invited to tour West Bromwich Albion’s stadium The Hawthorns as part of the project and to take photographs to add to his book. Dementia Cafes are held in Sandwell, Dudley and Walsall and they offer friendly support and a range of activities for people with dementia, their carers and families.

My Life Digital Reminiscence Therapy Software is a touch screen programme featuring a range of photographs, video clips and music, dating from the 1930s, which can be hand-picked to form digital scrap books. To attend a Dementia Café or to find out more information, call Janine Hayes on 0300 111 7000 or 0755 7153 571, or email sandwelldementia cafes@accordha.org.uk

January: A new social centre for older people and residents of the Accord Group’s Showell Court extra care scheme in Wolverhampton opens its doors.

February: Residents at Old Rectory Gardens keep the winter blues at bay with a host of fun-filled activities.

Delving into the past with digital scrap books isitors to special support groups for people with dementia and their carers are taking trips down memory lane as part of a unique digital project. The Accord Group’s Dementia Cafés are working with attendees to put together digital scrap books of their lives to aid communication skills. Tom Bromley (featured on the front page) is just one of those being

March: Thanks to donations from the public and businesses, a music room for children is launched at an Ashrammanaged refuge.

April: Residents at Ashram’s Ribbon Court extra care scheme celebrate International Women’s Week

60 seconds with...

What is the name of your team and what do you do? We are the Catering team at Cartlidge House in Telford. We provide meals, including breakfast, lunch and dinner to all residents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. What does your team’s role involve? We provide a nutritional, well-balanced menu for all residents of Cartlidge House, ensuring that there is choice every day.

We also provide meals to a local day centre once a week and get involved in special events, providing buffets or themed menus. What is your team most proud of achieving? We have recently been nominated for the 2012 SPIC Award for Healthy Eating and we have a five star award for hygiene from the local authority. What do you enjoy most about being in your team?

We all work very well together and enjoy each other’s company. We constantly share our knowledge and experience of working within a catering environment with both our team and other members of staff. We also really enjoy working with residents to provide the best possible nutritional support. How do residents play their part in your team’s work? They give us feedback on the quality of meals that we cook and take part in consultation about what we have on our menu when we change from summer to winter.

May: Age UK Walsall and Caldmoreaccord invite the Mayor to open a one-stop advice centre for older people in Walsall

October: Residents of Moseley and District’s Annand House raise a toast to their scheme as it marks its 25th anniversary

June: Residents of the Accord Group’s Rowan Village in Stoke-on-Trent raise a toast to the opening of a new café and bar facility at the scheme

July: Ashram’s Ghulab Ashram scheme throws open its doors to the local community to promote the activities and services it has on offer.

November: Celebrations all round at the Great Residents Awards as Old Vicarage’s Social Committee scoops the Resident Group of the Year award.

December: Caldmoreaccord’s Taste for Life initiative launches a new cookery club in Caldmore.

August: Young people at Caldmoreaccord’s supported housing schemes celebrate their successes at a special achievement day.

September: People with dementia and their carers are invited to a special Food for the Brain event to hear about the benefits of healthy eating.

How can I contact you? You can call Cartlidge House on 01952 618293.

T om Bromley (L) with tour guide Alan Ceverley (R).

News from Care and Support

DECEMBER 2012

caldmore accord

Personalisation...

Residents set for festive fun with Christmas party

Your questions

answered

n the last edition of Our House Care and Support, we told you about personalisation –

which is all about giving you more choice over the services that we provide.

umphrey Fitzgerald was awarded the Lifetime Achievement award at this year’s Great People Awards. Humphrey is the resident representative at his housing complex in Stourbridge, a role he has held for 25 years.

To help you to understand more about personalisation, we’ve answered your questions below.

How much money might I get to pay for my care and support under personalisation? The money you’re entitled to will depend on your needs. If you receive services through your council, they will already be paying for them. Under personalisation, you’ll receive an assessment and be told clearly the amount of money that the council think you need to meet your needs.

What is a personal budget? If you’re entitled to receive care and support services from your council you will be told how much money they think you need to pay for this care, and this amount of money will be called your “personal budget” or your “individual budget”.

What could I spend my personal budget on? You can spend your personal budget on a variety of services of your choice, as long as these services meet one of the needs you have identified in a support plan. Your support worker will help you to identify these needs.

What is a direct payment? If you want to arrange and pay for your care and support services yourself then you can ask your council to receive your personal budget as a “direct payment”. If you do this, the council will give you the money that makes up your personal budget and you will be responsible for arranging and paying for services yourself.

How would I pay for services? If you choose a direct payment and want to purchase care and support services from us, we’ll be able to offer you a range of ways to pay, including a direct debit. We will send you a regular invoice detailing the services you’ve received and the cost.

I am happy with my current arrangements and don’t want anything to change - is this ok? If you’re happy with the services that you receive from us then we can continue to provide them and the council will pay us directly for your care. If your personal budget isn’t enough to cover the cost of the services which you usually receive from us, we will work with you to try and find a solution.

I’m not entitled to any help from the council and I pay for my own care - – wil personalisation make any difference to me? Yes. Regardless of who pays for your care and support, we will make sure the services we provide are tailored to your individual circumstances and preferences.

News from Care and Support

Community clean- Lifetime award up brings garden for Humphrey back into bloom

L ast year’s party was a great success.

esidents from Accord’s learning disabilities schemes will get into the festive spirit of things when they come together for a funfilled Christmas party later this month. Guests from schemes including Harborne House and Fallings Heath will tuck into tasty

festive treats and drinks before enjoying a disco and prize draws. More than 60 residents attended last year’s bash and organisers hope this year’s event will be just as successful. If you live at one of Accord’s learning disabilities scheme and want more information about the party, speak to your scheme manager.

Residents have knitting all sewn up at new club

new knitting club has been set up at a Moseley and District scheme for residents who want to hone their sewing skills. Carpenter Place in Birmingham has launched the club for everyone at the scheme, from seasoned knitters to those who have never tried it before.

Dorrell Townsend, Care and Support Manager, said: “It’s been fantastic to see the impact the knitting club has had on the residents, the chatting, the laughter and them having fun.” If you live at Carpenter Place and would like to join the knitting club, speak to Senior Care Worker Gurmej Grewal. Residents knit and natter at new club.

award itself. I’ve lived at the scheme since day one and I’m very good friends with my neighbours which is vital as after all you never know when you may need them.

much as possible and friendly so it’s nice to be recognised for this with an award. How did you feel when you were presented with the award? I felt very proud and impressed with the

H umphrey (R) is presented with his award.

Congratulations Humphrey, were you surprised to win? Yes. I try to be available to my neighbours as Volunteers help tidy up Darlaston.

ive trucks full of rubbish were filled by volunteers as part of a week-long cleanup of Darlaston town centre. The Darlaston Town Partnership coordinated the annual community cleanup project, which involved a range of partners, including

Caldmoreaccord. More than 50 volunteers spent a week focusing on cleaning and tidying 10 hotspots across the town. Members of staff from Caldmoreaccord also worked to bring a local community garden back into use for the Walsall Tenants and Residents Federation.

C aldmore celebrates its 40th anniversary.

60 seconds with...

New advice hub to open in Sandwell

new hub that will offer first time social housing residents help in managing their finances is to open in Sandwell. The Sandwell Financial Services Hub will support residents aged 16-24 years old to develop new financial management skills so that they are better

equipped to manage their finances. It will bring together a range of different partners including, Sandwell Council, the Accord Group, Sandwell Community Information & Participation Service and many others.

What is your name and what do you do? My name is Wendy Powell and I’m the Director for Transformation for Caldmoreaccord. What does your job involve? I manage the Transformation team which looks at new ways of working and improving services. Our main focus

so far has been helping residents into work. We have two jobs and skills coaches who offer one-on-one support, which can include help in putting together a CV, using the internet to search for jobs or simply building confidence. The team is also taking a lead role in preparing the organisation and residents for the changes to benefits, which you can read more about on page 3. How long have you worked in your current job and what did you do before? This job is a new role which was introduced this year. Before then, I

was Director of Housing for Accord Housing Association. What do you enjoy most about your job? The best part of my job is seeing the successes of those individuals who are now more confident, determined to get into work and enthusiastic about the help that we can give. How can I contact you? You can email the Transformation team at transformation.team@ accordha.org.uk, call 0300 111 7000 or visit us at Jervis Court, Dog Kennel Lane, Walsall.

News from Caldmoreaccord

DECEMBER 2012

caldmore

DECEMBER 2012

accord

New resident organisation starts to take shape

new organisation that will see residents work together to manage their own homes is starting to take shape. The Pattern Gardens Tenant Management Organisation (TMO) is made up of residents who have or who are set to move into

homes at a new housing development in Darlaston. To date, members of the TMO have been given presentations on tenancy agreements, lettings and income collection and are currently undertaking a training programme to support them through the process. Pattern Gardens is the first development

of homes to use timber panels manufactured at the Accord Group’s factory, LoCaL Homes. Once completed, the development will feature over 100 new homes, including 90 low carbon timber houses for affordable rent, shared ownership and sale.

searching for jobs and preparing for interviews. Youth engagement website Social Breakfast is also running weekly sessions from the Learning Lab, which is fully Wi-Fi enabled.

Me and my hobby

esident Nadia Shayler from Walsall tells us all about her jewellery making hobby. Tell us about your hobby? I started to learn how to make silver jewellery two years ago. Wolverhampton adult education had a silver jewellery course for people of all abilities, so as a complete beginner it was great for

News from Caldmoreaccord

me. I now love making jewellery using various materials including silver. Of all the pieces that you’ve designed, what is your favourite? My favourite pieces of jewellery are my treble clef designs, made up of a bracelet, a pendant and a choker. What did you find most difficult about jewellery making when you first started

New organisers on hand to help change your community

Watched by you, reviewed by you

esident Amy Hedgecock reviews the latest flicks to hit the big screen.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Learning lab gets set to open hub offering free advice and support on how to find jobs has to opened its doors in Walsall. Called the Learning Lab, the new service is based at Jervis Court, Dog Kennel Lane, and is managed by Caldmoreaccord in partnership with Job Centre Plus. Job seekers can attend weekly job clubs to get support in writing CVs and covering letters,

caldmore

The Learning Lab will be open from 1.30pm - 4.30pm on Tuesdays for 16-24 year olds and Thursdays from 9.30am - 12.30pm for single parents.

out? Holding the tools was the most difficult part of making jewellery due to weakness in my right hand. Where do you get inspiration for your designs? My ideas come from the things that I love like music and images that I see in everyday life. What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into jewellery making? My advice is to give it a go and never give up,

Starring: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson and Ezra Miller Directed by: Stephen Chbosky Rated: 12 “The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a heartwarming tale of Charlie (played by Logan Lerman), a teen who is introduced to the world of sex, drugs and rock and roll courtesy of his new friends Patrick (Ezra Miller) and Sam (Harry Potter star Emma Watson). The film is an emotional roller coaster that will have you hooked from the get go. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll love. A must see.”

Here Comes the Boom Starring: Kevin James, Salma Hayek and Henry Winkler Directed by: Frank Coraci Rated: 12A Kevin James stars in this hilarious feel good film about a biology teacher who begins to raise money for his school by partaking in martial arts. Scott Voss works at a high school, cut backs mean the school faces cancelling the music programme. Scott steps up, becomes a local hero and risks all for the kids. If you like action and adventure mixed with a family comedy twist you’ll love this.

*** (3 star rating)

***** (5 star rating)

N adia with some of her jewellery.

it is very rewarding when you have a piece of jewellery that you have actually made.

Do you have a hobby to share with us? Call editor Claire Morrall on 0300 111 7000 extension 2340.

ould you like to change something in your community for the better but don’t know where to start? Then we may be able to help you. As part of a UKwide programme, we have two community organisers whose role it is to help you to take

action to tackle local issues that are important to you. Caldmoreaccord’s community organisers are Donna Ebanks and Anna Rogozinska

(pictured below). If you would like to work with them to resolve an issue in your neighbourhood, call our Customer First contact centre on 0300 111 7000.

Donna Ebanks.

A nna Rogozinska.

It’s all happening at the hub

f you live or work in Caldmore you may have seen a new shop on the Green called the Village Hub. Launched in May, the Hub is open to everyone and is used for a host of different activities, from advice sessions to an exhibition space for local artists. Here’s what’s on at the Hub now. Every Thursday (10am-12pm) – Informal information and advice on a host of different topics from Walsall South Area Partnership Every Thursday (5.30pm-6.30pm) – Coffee and chat with Caldmoreaccord’s community organisers (who you can read more about above) Every third Saturday (1.30pm onwards) – Artists’ meeting (to

New homes for sale in Darlaston

discuss current work and future exhibitions) Don’t forget, the Hub is also home to the Time for Real time bank – a unique way of volunteering.

To find out more about any of the activities taking place at the Hub, drop into the centre or call Phillip Gaw on 0300 111 7000.

re you looking to get onto the property ladder but are struggling to afford it? Then we may be able to help you. We have two-bedroom homes available to buy on our brand new Pattern Gardens development in Darlaston from as little as £62,500* (for a 50 per cent share). The stylish development of low-

Crackdown on former residents who owe rent

e Hub. Getting arty at the Villag

carbon timber homes features a range of property types and sizes and includes homes for outright sale, from just £125,000 for a twobedroom house. For more information, or to book a viewing of our show home, call Paul Dubberley Estate Agents on 0121 663 0360 or email Pattern.Gardens@ pauldubberley.co.uk.

esidents who leave their homes owing rent to their landlord are being targeted as part of a bid to tackle the problem. Caldmoreaccord have launched a tough campaign to target former residents who leave their homes with rent arrears. A range of measures, including court action, are being used to recover the lost rents. Robert Collins, Business Support Manager at

Caldmoreaccord, said: “Whilst many residents keep their rent accounts up-to-date, a small minority leave their homes owing us money.

“This new, tougher approach is recovering money that helps us to keep our rents affordable for the vast majority of residents who pay their rent on time.”

If you are having problems paying your rent, contact our Customer First contact centre on 0300 111 7000.

News from Caldmoreaccord

DECEMBER 2012

Get your voice heard at new forum

esidents who want their voices to be heard can now join a new group to talk about the issues that affect them. The Moseley and District Residents’ Focus Group has been launched to give you a stronger voice with the aim of sharing opportunities and ways of dealing with common issues. Mustafa Ramji, Service Improvement Manager at Moseley and District, said: “We want residents to have as many opportunities as possible to be involved in things that affect them.

“This focus group will allow them to consider what current issues are faced by Moseley and District and how they impact on residents. It will also act as a consultation mechanism.”

Launched last month, the focus group will meet five times a year and will be chaired by a resident with support from staff at Moseley and District.

Sheltered scheme celebrates anniversary

sheltered housing scheme in Birmingham has celebrated its 25th anniversary. Friends, family and residents of Annand House in Sparkbrook marked the special event with a fun-filled party.

To join the Residents Focus Group, please email ServiceImprovement Team@moseleyha.org. uk or call 0300 111 7000 and ask for the Service Improvement team.

60 seconds with... resident meetings and visits to tenants’ homes. I also work with the witness support group, organising exciting events and training opportunities for the group.

What is your name and what do you do? My name is Katie Gallon and I am a Temporary Assistant Housing Officer at Moseley and District. What does your job involve? My job involves lots of different tasks, from assisting our housing officers with anti-social behaviour cases to helping to organise and attend

Food, refreshments and activities, including dance craze Zumba, belly dancing and mehndi were also tried out by guests. Annand House, which provides housing and care for residents aged over 55, is managed by Moseley and District.

How long have you worked in your current job and what did you do before? I started working for Moseley and District in 2010 as a receptionist at head office and have recently been given the opportunity to be an assistant housing officer for the next 12 months. What do you enjoy about your job? The team I work with are great and there is always something exciting going on. I enjoy the contact I

News from Moseley and District

have with residents and I like seeing the happy reactions from new residents when you offer them a place to make a home with a tenancy in a Moseley and District property. How can I contact you? You can call me on 0121 442 5042 and my email address is katieg@ moseleyha.org.uk. Or you can pop into the reception at 106 Alcester Road and if I am in the office I can meet with you. If I am not available a member of my team will always be on hand to help or you can book an appointment with me in the office for another day.

Neighbourhoods scoop top award

oseley and Balsall Heath are blooming with pride after scooping top accolades in this year’s Heart of England in Bloom competition. Moseley in Bloom struck gold for the fifth year running by clinching the Urban Communities category while Balsall Heath in Bloom was awarded silver in the same category. Residents and staff at Moseley and District supported both bids, making hanging baskets to display in Moseley and sponsoring Balsall Health in Bloom.

DECEMBER 2012

Help on offer at support group

re you worried about anti-social behaviour in your neighbourhood or on your estate? Then why not come along to our support group. Launched in partnership with the

local police, the Witness Support Group is open to any resident who is experiencing or has come across anti-social behaviour.

Confidential information and advice from qualified staff is on offer

at each meeting and there are presentations from guest speakers. For more information, call Peter Helly on 0121 442 5030 or email peter. helly@moseleyha.org.uk

G reen fingered residents at the Grange.

Moseley and District just a click away

id you know that you can get a host of information and news about Moseley and District at the click of a button?

All you need to do is log onto moseleyanddistrict. org.uk to find updates about changes to benefits, report a repair or look for a new home.

Office Christmas and New Year opening times

oseley and District’s office at 106 Alcester Road will close for Christmas and New Year on Friday, 21 December at 5pm. The office’s reception area will close its doors at 4pm as per normal. The office will re-open

at 9am on Wednesday, 2 January 2013. For the opening hours of our Customer First contact centre, please turn to the front page of this newsletter.

Gardeners urged to plan ahead for competition

Love your community this winter - be a good neighbour

s the cold weather draws in being a ‘good’ neighbour is more important than ever. Older neighbours in particular are often more prone to ill health during the winter and can become isolated and lonely. At Moseley and District, we are encouraging all residents to be ‘good’ neighbours this winter by: • Checking on older or vulnerable neighbours to

ensure they are well • Offering to do shopping for older or vulnerable people • Carefully clearing drive ways or paths of snow and ice

Mustafa Ramji, Service Improvement Manager, said: “Just showing an interest in others can have a great effect on a person’s emotional health and wellbeing. In return, you will benefit from knowing that you are making a difference in your community.”

Don’t forget, if you know someone who may need support you can also refer them to Taste for Life Birmingham – a free support service that helps people aged over 55 to get the help they need to remain independent. For more information about this, call 0121 764 3879.

his year we invited you to pull on your gardening gloves and dig out your trowels to enter the annual Moseley and District gardening competition. Scores of you entered and the winners were presented with top prizes, including £50 worth of shopping vouchers. If you’ve got a garden to be proud, why not enter next year’s competition? To get you started, here are some top tips on how you can look after your garden over the winter months.

1: To protect bushes, shrubs and hedges in your garden from high winds this winter prune them back. 2: To keep your lawn at its best over the winter avoid walking on it if it’s very wet or frosted over and clear away any leaves or other debris. 3: For a colourful garden next spring, make sure you plant any bulbs such as daffodils and tulips, before the first frost. 4: If frost is forecast, protect your potted plants by moving them to a covered area such as a greenhouse or pop some bubble wrap over them.

News from Moseley and District

Festive fun puzzle

DECEMBER 2012

Draw a line from dot to dot until all the numbers are connected. Once you’ve finished, colour in the picture and send it to, The Accord Group, c/o Claire Morrall, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 6QG by Wednesday, 12 January 2013. The best entry will appear on the Accord Group’s Facebook page.

DECEMBER 2012

Events and activities Up-and-coming dates for your diary from around the Group and your community.

December Wednesday, 12 December (until 15 December). Penn Hospital: Exploring the History exhibition, Wolverhampton Art Gallery, Lichfield St, Wolverhampton. For details, call 01902 552055

Friday, 14 December (until 22 December). Frankfurt Christmas Market, Victoria Square and New Street, Birmingham. 10am-9pm.

Saturday, 15 December. Christmas dropin craft session for children, Walsall Museum, Lichfield Street, Walsall. 11am1pm. 75p per child. All materials provided, suitable for children aged 5 to 12 years. For further information, call 01922 653116 or email museum@walsall.gov.uk.

Saturday, 15 December. Christmas Fayre with live music, The Crossing St Pauls, Darwell Street, Walsall. 10am-4pm.

Saturday, 15 December. It’s Christmas - Live Nativity, Queen Square, Wolverhampton. 11am3pm.

Saturday, 15 December. Acocks Green Farmers Market,1157 Warwick Road, Acocks Green, Birmingham. 9am-3pm.

News from the Accord Group

Saturday, 15 December. Deer Feeding, Attingham Park, Atcham, North Shrewsbury, Shropshire. 2pm-3pm. Admission charges apply. For details, call 01743 708123/ 708162

Tuesday, 18 December (until 31 December). Tolkien Display, Weoley Castle Library, Beckbury Road, Birmingham. Free. For details go to www. birmingham.gov.uk

Tuesday, 18 December. Tots Time Out (singing and storytelling), Small Heath Library, Muntz Street, Small Heath, Birmingham. 10.30am11.30am. For children under 5 and their carers.

Wednesday, 19 December. Community lunch. Bosworth Drive Community Centre, Bosworth Drive, Chelmsley Wood, Birmingham. 12pm-3pm. For details call, 0121 770 8570.

Wednesday, 19 December. Carols in the Square, The Square, Shrewsbury Shropshire. From 5.30pm. Free

January Thursday, 10 January. Memories in the Making (a friendly way for older people and those with dementia to share memories through arts and interesting activities), Bilston Craft

Gallery, Mount Pleasant, Wolverhampton. 10.30am -12.30pm. Free. For details call, 01902 552507

Monday, 14 January (every second Monday of the month). Ancestry sessions (learn more about tracing ancestors), Rounds Green Library, Martley Road, Oldbury. 2pm4pm. Free. For details, call 0121 552 2879.

Tuesday, 15 January. Accord Group Online training taster session, Moseley and District, 106 Alcester Road, Moseley, Birmingham. 9.30am-11.30am. Booking essential. Call the Resident Engagement team on 0300 111 7000 extension 2067/2064 for details.

Thursday, 17 January (every Thursday). Tiny Tadpoles swimming (under 5’s with adult fun sessions), Dudley Leisure Centre, Wellington Road, Dudley. 12.30pm-1.30pm. For details, call 01384 812800

Monday, 21 January (every Monday). Credit Union session (Find out how you can open a Credit Union account) Bleakhouse Road, Oldbury. 10am12pm. For details, call 0121 422 2798.

Wednesday, 23 January. Big Brum Antiques Forum (antiques and collectors fair), Bull Ring Rag Market, Edgbaston Street, Birmingham.

7.30am-1.30pm. Free admission.

Friday, 8 February.

Accord Group Online training taster session, Fairview Court, 1 Broad Lane, Bloxwich, Walsall. 9.30am-11.30am. Booking essential. Call the Resident Engagement team on 0300 111 7000 extension 2067/2064 for details.

Accord Group Online training taster session, Annand House, 37 Hickman Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham. 12.30pm2.30pm. Booking essential. Call the Resident Engagement team on 0300 111 7000 extension 2067/2064 for details.

Saturday, 26 January (every Saturday).

Thursday, 21 February.

Spring Vale Library Saturday Storytime (for children aged under 10), Spring Vale Bevan Avenue, Parkfields, Wolverhampton. For details call, 01902 556 284.

‘The owl who was afraid of the dark’ production, Stourbridge Town Hall, Crown Centre, Crown Lane, Stourbridge. From 1.30pm. Adults £8, children £6 and family of four £25. For details call, 01384 812960.

Tuesday, 22 January.

Thursday, 31 January (until Saturday, 2 February). Youth Theatre present ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’, Redditch Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcestershire. From 7.30pm. For ticket prices and to book, call 01527 65203.

February Friday, 8 February. Accord Group Online training taster session, Carpenter Place, 103 Oldfield Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham. 9.30am11.30am. Booking essential. Call the Resident Engagement team on 0300 111 7000 extension 2067/2064 for details.

Wednesday, 13 February. The D-Day Darlings, Redditch Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcestershire. From 2.30pm. For tickets prices and to book, call 01527 65203.

Saturday, 16 February. Acocks Green Farmers Market,1157 Warwick Road, Acocks Green, Birmingham. 9am-3pm.

Thursday, 21 February (every Thusday – term time only). Aqua Natal, Smethwick Swimming Centre, Thimblemill Road, Smethwick, Sandwell. 11am-12pm.

Events and activities

DECEMBER 2012

Competitions Quiz

imply answer the following 10 questions correctly to be in with the chance of winning a £20 Love2Shop voucher, which can be redeemed at over 20,000 stores. Send your completed questions to, The Accord Group, c/o Claire Morrall, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 6QG or email them to clairemo@ accordgroup.org.uk by Monday, 28 January, 2013. Remember to include the name of the competition that you are entering, your name, address and a phone or email contact. One winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries. The winner of Summer’s competition was Miss A Padya.

1: In which country would you find the city of Milan? 2: What is the name of band that X-Factor judge Gary Barlow sings in? 3: Who wrote the children’s book The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe? 4: What two colours make up the flag of Sweden? 5: What is the name of the Red Bull-sponsored sky diver who jumped to Earth from a helium balloon from the edge of space this year? 6: Name the actress who plays Kat Slater in BBC soap EastEnders? 7: In athletics, what is traditionally the last event of the Decathlon? 8: What spirit is the base of a Pina Collada cocktail? 9: Who first developed the theory of evolution by natural selection? 10: Where did this year’s Great Resident Awards take place? You’ll find the next answer in this newsletter.

Wordsearch

imply find the word that is NOT in the wordsearch to be in with the chance of winning a £20 Love2Shop voucher, which can be redeemed at over 20,000 stores. Send your answer to The Accord Group, c/o Claire Morrall, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, west Midlands, B70 6QG or email clairemo@ accordgroup.org.uk by Monday, 28 January, 2013. Remember to include the name of the competition that you are entering, your name, address and a phone or email contact. One winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries. Competitions

1: Christmas 2: Snowman 3: Cracker 4: Reindeer 5: Star 6: Tree 7: Bauble 8: Stocking 9: Presents 10: Mistletoe 11: Holly 12: Turkey 13: Tinsel The winner of Summer’s wordsearch was Miss D Corbin.

H W

U W

M W O

The Accord Group, Tel: 0300 111 7000 Email: customerfirst@accordgroup.org.uk Write to: Customer First, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, B70 6QG On request, we will do what is practical to translate information into different formats including large print, Braille and other languages. If you need a document translated into a different language or format, call Customer First on 0300 111 7000.