Our House, Spring 2013 by The Accord Group

Our House Your Group, your news

@theaccordgroup

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In this issue...

New boxing club is a knock out

Dementia service expands

Get online and get ahead

Our House

youtube.com/theaccordgroup

Accord Group resident newsletter April, 2013

Bedroom tax it’s here

Garden bash is back

p10

Just the job!

Apprenticeship opportunities on offer Scores of apprenticeships which will lead to real jobs caring and supporting people in Birmingham and the Black Country are up for grabs.

From drawing to dream home A design for an eco-home dreamed up by a 10-year-old girl is being built in Redditch. The home will be part of a major housing scheme being developed by Redditch Cooperative Homes in partnership with Mansell. Set to be completed in December, it will be the largest Norwegian timber-frame housing scheme in the country. To find out more, turn to page 13.

Interested residents and their families are being invited to apply for the internships, which are part of the Accord Group’s new Recruitment Opportunities Learning and Employment (ROLE) initiative. ROLE is offering pre-employment skills training (with literacy and numeracy qualifications), eight-week unpaid work experience placements and apprenticeships, paid at the national apprentice rate. Anyone who completes an apprenticeship will be offered a job caring and supporting people,

including the elderly, young people and those with mental health concerns. David Williams, Director of Health, Social, Care and Support, said: “We are providing genuine training and job opportunities and are looking for candidates who are committed, enthusiastic and trustworthy. “ROLE is open to all residents, their immediate family and leaseholders and although there is a lower age limit of 17, there is no upper age limit. Preference will be given to people who are

unemployed but we’ll also consider those in parttime or temporary work.” Residents who successfully complete a work experience placement or an apprenticeship will get a reference, new skills to add to their CV and training certificates. To register your interest in the ROLE programme, or for more information, email role@accordgroup. org.uk or send a letter to Accord Group, c/o Care and Support, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 6QG.

Aged 12-18 years old? Then we need you! Have you ever dreamed of writing or editing your own magazine? Well now you could. From July, we will be launching a brand new supplement in Our House especially for young people. We would love to know what kind of articles you’d like to read, the topics that you want to see covered in the magazine and content written or produced by you. In return for your help, we’re offering £10 Love2Shop vouchers. To find out more, or to register your interest, email Our House editor Claire Morrall at clairemo@accordgroup.org.uk or call 0121 500 2340.

Accord Group news

Our House

April, 2013

Talk it up Hello and welcome to the first Our House of 2013. You may notice that your newsletter looks a little different. This is because we’ve refreshed the look and content to give you more news that matters to you in a format that’s easy and enjoyable to read. We hope you like the new look. If you have any comments or feedback about it, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me. Although Our House may look a little different, we’re still dedicated to providing you with all the latest news and information. On page four, you can read about a brand new boxing club launched by West Midlands Police and sponsored by Caldmoreaccord to provide young people in Walsall with a chance to stay fit and learn discipline and self-control. Whilst on pages 6-7 there are job and training opportunities galore, including top tips on writing the perfect CV. Turn to page 10 to read about the host of different ways that you can make a difference by getting involved in the work of your housing association and don’t forget to enter our competitions on page 16 to be in with a chance of winning some top prizes.

Happy reading!

Got something to say? Get in touch..

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Call us on: 0300 111 7000 Visit us online at: accordgroup.org.uk

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The mailbag “I completed a walk and talk event at Churchwell Court in Womborne. Lots of the residents that I spoke to told me how much they enjoy reading Our House but it never mentions their scheme. We can’t have that now, can we? So I would like to say a big hello to all the residents of Churchwell Court.

Partnership celebrates first anniversary Caldmoreaccord, a partnership between Accord and Caldmore housing associations, is celebrating its first anniversary this month. The partnership saw both associations come together to revolutionise frontline services last April.

As well as providing housing services, the partnership has seen the launch of new initiatives such as the Learning LAB – which you can read about on page 7 of this newsletter.

May I take the opportunity to say what a pleasure it was to meet you and thank you for your warm welcome.”

Fiona Perry, Resident Engagement Officer for Caldmoreaccord Would you like your housing scheme to get a mention in Our House like Churchwell Court? Or maybe you have feedback or comments about a story published in the newsletter? If so, email clairemo@accordgroup.org.uk or write to Our House, C/O Claire Morrall, Accord Group, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 6QG.

This year we will once again be updating the information that we have about you to help us to understand your needs better and improve the way we deliver services. We’ll be making this simpler than the previous year by focusing on the specific gaps in information that we have about you. This will mean we will be asking for your latest contact details, including

are still people who haven’t completed them. “Having this information helps us to contact you in a timely manner and tailor our services to meet your needs.

“With the changes to benefits too, it’s vital that we have this information so that we can help you to prepare for them.”

Results of last years survey

We also have housekeeping, carers, gas and electricity engineers, a garden, cafeteria and a lounge. What a privilege it is to be here. We have uplifting religious study as required and a residents’ consultation for activities. We have such happy tenants; let our utterances about Accord always be with graciousness.

Under 5

46 - 55

6 - 15

56 - 65

16 - 25

65 +

26 - 35

Gaps

36 - 45

Former lock factory to be demolished to make way for housing development

Snow-inspired photos “As discussed on the Editorial Group, I personally prefer the ‘new’ design.”

“I built this today in memory of my dog penny.” “I prefer the old design.”

“A snapshot of my journey home from work.” “I really prefer the new proposed design for the front cover.”

email addresses, before we then look to update information on you and your household. As you’ll have read in the last edition of Our House, 80 per cent of residents completed and sent back a ‘Getting to Know You’ survey last year. Nev Gill, Head of Customer First, said: “More than 7,000 residents filled out their forms last year but there

Age of Accord Group residents

Patricia Swain, Walsall

New look for Our House

Be the first past the post by completing survey

I moved to a Caldmoreaccord building three years ago from Aldridge. At the time I was bipolar. Life could have been difficult and I was feeling low. We have Accord to help us in every way; there is love and friendship here. There is also, management, staff, activities, computer-training, coffee afternoons, a resident drop-in surgery, a laundry, a car park and two lifts.

Facebook snapshot - what you’re talking about

Accord Group news

Our House

April, 2013

“Pic of my garden.”

The site of a former Black Country lock factory is to be transformed into a new housing scheme, after plans were given the green light by Walsall Council. Nearly 50 new and affordable homes will be built on the site of the former Josiah Parkes factory in Wood Street, Willenhall, which has lain derelict for a decade. The homes will be developed by Accord Group and Westbury Partnerships, in close partnership with Walsall Council.

Existing buildings on the site will be demolished to make room for 35 two, three and fourbedroom houses and 12 two-bedroom apartments for people on housing waiting lists. It is expected to be completed by late autumn.

Living arrangements of Accord Group residents Results of last years survey

Co-habiting

Separated

Divorced

Single

Married

Widowed

Join us for live web chat Have you got a burning question about the changes to benefits or do you simply want to share your experience of the reforms with others? Then join us for a live question and answer session on our website

at accordgroup.org. uk on Friday, 26 April from 10am-11am. Murray Kelso, Web Communications Officer at Accord Group, said: “We understand that the Government’s changes to benefits are going

to affect lots of our customers which is why we’ve decided to host this web chat. “It will be an easy way of getting your questions answered and share you experiences of the changes so far.”

Accord Group news

Our House

April, 2013

Health and well-being Companionship and a cuppa at cafes People who care for or have a family member with dementia are being encouraged to enjoy a cuppa at one of a host of special cafes across the Black Country. Held monthly, the free Dementia Cafe support groups are open to anyone who has dementia, their carers and families. Not only are they a great place to get informal support and advice but you will also meet people who are in a similar position to yourself and take part in enjoyable activities. The cafes, run by the Accord Group, are held

in Sandwell, Dudley and Walsall. For more information, call Janine Hayes on 0300 111 7000

or 07557 153 571 or email dementiacafes@ accordgroup.org.uk

Health and well-being

Healthy recipe

for Chicken Goulash

A brand new community boxing club has opened to the public in Walsall, with support from Caldmoreaccord.

Ingredients

Dementia cafes are friendly and relaxed

amazing Wildlife Trust Eco Park off Hob Moor Road in Bordesley Green, so there will be lots of outdoor learning and fun to be had. The scheme will be run by professional children’s workers and NSPCCtrained volunteers. If you would like your child/children to take part in Holiday Kitchen activities, or would be interested in volunteering to help

run the project, contact Caroline Wolhuter on 0121 764 3862 or email carolinew@ ashramha.org.uk

holidays) the Arrow Valley Health Walk takes place from the Countryside Centre, Battens Drive, in Redditch at 11am. The walk takes up to an hour and is usually between two and three miles with

• 8 boneless/skinless chicken thighs

Walsall Police amateur boxing club is the brain child of Willenhall amateur boxer Shaun Hargreaves, who has over 30 years’ experience in amateur boxing, and Walsall Police. The aim of the club is to bring communities together to improve fitness, breakdown barriers between police and young people and reduce antisocial behaviour. Patricia Bartlam-Clarke, Locality Manager at Caldmoreaccord, said: “As a local housing association that is committed to improving communities we are proud to support the club.

“Not only is amateur boxing a good way to keep fit and healthy but it also promotes discipline and self-control amongst young people.”

Enjoy a ramble in Redditch Do you want to improve your health and well-being and take in the sights and sounds of meadows and woodlands? Then why not get walking. Every Monday morning (excluding some bank

Six questions with Person Taste for Life’s Shungu Mandengu

(Serves four. Preparation time 10 minutes. Cooking time approximately one hour)

Cooking up fun in the Holiday Kitchen School holidays can be a stressful and expensive time for many families, especially if you’re on a tight budget. To provide a helping hand, Ashram Housing Association is offering pre and primary school children free and nutritious lunches and activities throughout this year’s summer holidays. Called the Holiday Kitchen, the scheme will be based at the

Amateur boxing club is a knock out

shorter routes optional. To find out more, contact Val Wilson, Acting Countryside Centre Manager, on 01527 464000 or email val. wilson@redditchbc.gov.uk

Open to people aged 10 upwards, the club, based at Maybrook Industrial Estate, Maybrook Road, Walsall Wood, Brownhills, runs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 6pm8.30pm and at the weekends from 12pm-4pm. For more information about the club, call PC Alan Poole on 101 extension 7881 6601 or email alan.poole@west-midlands.pnn. police.uk

Six questions with...

Your health, your life

From outdoor activities to healthy recipes, find out more about health and well-being here.

Our House

April, 2013

• 2 medium onions • 2 carrots • 1tbsp paprika • 1tsp caraway seeds • 115g button mushrooms • 115g chopped dried apricots • 175g tomatoes • 285ml chicken stock • 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

What is Taste for Life Birmingham? It’s a service for people aged 55 and over who live in south and west Birmingham. It’s funded by Birmingham City Council and run by Moseley and District and Ashram Housing Association. How can it help me? We can help you to find out about useful, local services that can support you to keep living independently in your own home. For example, you may have just come out of hospital and need a bit of extra support around the house or you may be affected by the changes to benefits and need help to learn how to use a computer, whatever your need we’re here to help.

I’m on a tight budget, can I afford it? This service is free, so you don’t pay anything. In fact, rather than costing you money, we can support you to increase your income and make the most of your cash. Which areas do you cover? We cover King Norton, Yardley, Bourneville, Cape Hill, Handsworth, Edgbaston, Aston, Selly Oak, Shard End and Sheldon. If you’re unsure that we cover your area, call us. If it’s not in our catchment area, we will signpost you to services that are available.

Why should I use Taste for Life Birmingham over similar services? We are experienced, vibrant and friendly and you’ll only have to wait three-working days for an assessment with us. If you meet our criteria, we can start working with you within seven days. How can I find out more information about Taste for Life Birmingham? You can call our hotline on 0121 764 3879, email ashramtasteforlife@ accordgroup.org.uk or write to Taste for Life Birmingham, Ashram Housing Association, Fairgate House, 205 Kings Road, Tyseley, Birmingham, B11 2AA.

Comical children have a Riot! Children living in an Ashram refuge have created a comic book based on their life experiences. Animal Riot, produced in partnership with Wade comics, has been entirely designed and written by the youngsters. The characters and storyline reflect their own

personal experiences such as building new friendships, bullying and experiences of being around a person who has anger management issues.

Cooking 1: F ry the chicken thighs in a tablespoon of olive oil for 15 minutes until well browned on all sides. 2: P eel and chop the onions and carrots. 3: R emove the chicken from the pan and add the carrots, onions, paprika and caraway seeds and cook for a further three minutes. 4: A dd the apricots and mushrooms and cook for two minutes. 5: A dd the tomatoes, chicken stock and chicken and bring to the boil. 6: R educe to simmer, cover and cook for a further 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is completely cooked and the sauce reduced. 7: Season to taste and sprinkle parsley to serve. Recipe by Sue Williams (Chef Manager at Bourneville House in Telford)

Walsall dementia service expands A pioneering initiative for the 3,000 people in Walsall affected by dementia has expanded, offering even more services. Pathways for Life is now providing services targeted at ‘hard to reach’ communities, such as people with dementia

and a language barrier, and people who live in their own homes that have just been diagnosed with the condition. To find out more, call Janine Hayes on 0300 111 7000 or 0755 7153 571 or email dementiacafes@ accordha.org.uk

Health and well-being

Our House

April, 2013

Jobs, skills and training Jobs on offer at gardening firm

TOP TIPS

An established gardening and grounds maintenance firm is recruiting for seasonal landscape gardeners. Greenscape, which provides services to the Accord Group, is recruiting four gardeners from now until September. The role will involve a host of landscape maintenance tasks, such as mowing and pruning, at various sites across the West Midlands. Phil Greaves, Business Development Manager for Greenscape, said: “A large number of our full time and managerial staff joined Greenscape on seasonal contracts. It’s a great way to get your foot on the employment ladder.” Mark Bird, Landscape

Co-ordinator, who is responsible for five gardening teams and the tree surgery team, said: “I joined Greenscape as a seasonal gardener and have never looked back. “If you’d have told me that I’d be managing a big team and prestigious clients when I first started, I would have laughed but now I do.” To apply to become a seasonal gardener, or for more information, call 0300 111 7004 and ask to speak to the Recruitment

team. To apply, visit accordgroup.org.uk/ vacancies and follow the link to the careers portal. Please note that applications via any other method aren’t accepted.

Jobs, training and skills

called local businesses and companies and asked about potential vacancies. “He managed to secure three interviews for jobs and was overjoyed when he got the caretaker role. It shows how far you can

Employment and skills coach, Rachel

1: Potential employers may have scores of CVs to sift through, so give yours a chance of being read by making it no longer than two pages.

Courses help customer scoop caretaker job A customer is celebrating after getting a job as a caretaker, thanks to a helping hand from Fry Housing Trust. Matt Clements* was out of work for two years before support from the Trust helped him to find employment. He took part in a variety of courses to help build his skills, confidence and prepare him for looking and applying for work. Mike Rogers, Social Innovation Worker at Fry Housing Trust, said: “Following on from the courses, Matt

How to write the perfect CV by Ashram’s Employment and Skills Coach, Rachel Perks

get with a little support and help.” For support and help in finding work or training, Fry customers can call Mike Rogers, Social Innovation Worker, on 0121 559 6406 or email

2: Print your CV on white, A4 paper and use the same font and layout throughout to give it a professional feel. 3: Keep information clear and brief - try to use punchy words to really sell your skills and experience.

4: Always spellcheck your CV and if possible get someone else to read it too as it’s easy to overlook mistakes. 5: Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. You can contact a jobs and skills coach, if your housing association has one, or log onto www.direct.gov.uk/ nationalcareers service.

michael.rogers@fryha.org.uk

HOT OPPORTUNITIES

Social innovation worker, Mike Rogers

Painter and decorator apprenticeship with CLC Contractors. One year. Minimum wage. Engineer work experience placement with Status Heating. One month (two days per week for eight hours). Travelling costs paid for. Interested in one of our ‘hot opportunities’? Call Kally Bhatti, Jobs and Skills Coordinator for Accord AddVentures, on 0121 442 5008 or email kally.bhatti@accordgroup.org.uk

Our House

April, 2013

Helping hand for young job hunters at advice hub

How I became...

Struggling young job hunters in Walsall can now get tailored support in finding work at a brand new advice hub.

a Dementia Cafe Co-ordinator

Called the Learning LAB, the fully-equipped, WiFi enabled centre run by Caldmoreaccord hosts free weekly work clubs to help unemployed people aged 16 to 24 and single parents to search and apply for jobs. Job seekers can also get specialist support from jobs and skills coaches in writing CVs and covering letters, preparing for interviews and filling out application forms, at the hub. Stephen Sharman, Transformation Manager at Caldmoreaccord, said: “The number of people claiming Jobseekers Allowance in Walsall stands at more than 10,000. “To reduce this figure,

it’s vital that we offer the support and guidance that people need to get into work, whether it’s help in writing a CV or perfecting interview technique. “The Learning LAB will do just that by offering job seekers the opportunity

to get free, independent and regular advice to find work.” For more information, call 01922 630364, email JobsandSkills@ accordgroup.org.uk or visit the Learning LAB at Jervis Court, Dog Kennel Lane.

Janine Hayes (centre) at a dementia cafe

Learning Lab launches in Walsall

Weekly work clubs are held at the Learning LAB on Tuesdays from 1.30pm-4.30pm (for 16-24 year olds) and Thursdays from 9.30am-12.30pm (for single parents).

Get online and get ahead

Do you think computers and the internet aren’t for you? Here are four reasons why getting online can help you to get ahead. 1: It can help you search and apply for jobs and training. It’s common now for organisations to advertise opportunities online. Many even ask you to apply for jobs via email. 2: It can help you to prepare for the future. The Government’s changes to benefits mean that you’ll be expected to apply for

them online and even manage claims through an online account. 3: It can be fun and informative. Websites such as Facebook can help you to stay in touch with friends and family whilst others offer information on everything from fashion to football.

“From as early as I can remember I wanted to be a nurse but after starting university to study for the relevant qualifications, I realised that it wasn’t really for me. “I wanted a hands-on, caring role but instead I was sitting through lectures. I decided to put university on hold and applied to work as a care assistant in a care scheme in Walsall. “As soon as I started the job it felt completely natural and I loved every aspect of it, especially working with people with dementia. “When I saw a job advertised for a Dementia Café Co-ordinator, I wasn’t sure whether to apply for it as I really liked working as a care assistant. My manager

at the time thought I’d be great at it though and pushed me to apply. “I was overjoyed when I got the job, which involves a range of tasks from organising the Dementia Café support groups to promoting the service at hospitals and clinics. “Sometimes my job can be tough emotionally, especially when families and carers get upset and anxious about a diagnosis, but the fact that I know I’m making a difference makes it all worthwhile.” Does Janine’s story make you want a career in care? Then check out the front page of this newsletter or look for jobs at www.accordgroup.org. uk/vacancies

Getting online can help you get ahead

4: It can save you money. Lots of websites offer incentives to purchase or book something online, saving you cash and time. You can also download vouchers and moneysaving offers. To find a free or low cost computer course in your area, call UK Online Centres on 0800 77 1234.

Jobs, training and skills

Our House

April, 2013

Six questions with...

MoneyAdvisor Cassandra Lewington

Tips, advice and ideas about managing your finances.

If you need to move to a smaller home because you’re going to be affected by the bedroom tax or you’ve simply outgrown your current pad, then swapping homes could be right up your street.

Homeswapper.co.uk is a free mutual exchange website that once you’ve registered with, can provide a list of homes that match your criteria. Homes managed by other social landlords across the Midlands are

also on the site, so you can search from thousands of properties to find the right place for you. Once you’ve found your match, the next step is to contact them and arrange to visit each other’s homes. Your housing officer

can guide you through the process and if you don’t have access to the internet, you can register at your housing association’s office.

How do I... budget effectively? 1: The best way to work out your budget is to make some lists. 2: Make a list for the money you get each month – full-time or parttime wages, benefits and pensions. 3: Then make another for the monthly bills that you pay to keep your household running, such as rent, council tax and heating.

Health and well-being

3: Take your monthly spending away from your monthly income and you’ll see how much you’ll have left for anything else you need to pay. 4: Talk to your whole family about the budget; if money is going to be tighter, it’s important that everyone – including your children – understands why and can help save money where they can.

If you’re struggling with debt, you can get free and independent advice from the Debt Advice Foundation by calling 0800 043 40 50 or visit www.debtadvice foundation.org You can also speak to your housing officer or support worker.

Bedroom tax

Let’s get ready...

Bedroom tax - it’s here! From this month, if you claim Housing Benefit you’ll only get it for the number of bedrooms that the Government says that you need. If you have more bedrooms than needed, your Housing Benefit will be cut by 14 per cent for one spare room and by 25 per cent for two or more. What are the rules? • Children of different sexes under 10 will be expected to share a bedroom • Children of the same sex under 16 will be expected to share a bedroom • Each adult or couple can have their own bedroom • No extra bedrooms will be allowed for when someone visits, including children who stay with a parent that they do not normally live with • No extra bedrooms will be allowed for medical reasons • The size of bedrooms doesn’t matter

What does that mean in cash terms? If you have one bedroom spare, your Housing Benefit will be reduced by 14 per cent, for example: Weekly rent = £70 Housing Benefit = £60.20 What you’ll have to pay a week £9.80 If my Housing Benefit is cut, what do I need to do? You’ll need to find the difference between your Housing Benefit and your full weekly rent. If you miss rent payments, you could be at risk of losing your home, so it’s vital that you pay it. I need help! If you want to move to a smaller home you need to: • Register with a Choice Based Lettings Scheme in your area • Register to exchange your home with another customer • Contact us by calling 0300 111 7000, email customerfirst@ accordgroup.org.uk or visit accordgroup.org.uk

What’s your name and what do you do? My name is Cassandra Lewington and I am a Money Advisor for Moseley and District and Ashram Housing Association. What does your job involve on a day-to-day basis? My job is to provide a comprehensive money and debt advice service to residents. This can include advice on maximising income or getting the benefits residents are entitled to.

Why did you want to become a money advisor? The job gives me the chance to help residents. It’s very satisfying when we can work with a resident to clear or reduce their rent arrears by ensuring they’re getting the right benefits, especially when you see the look of relief on their face. It’s also my responsibility to make sure residents know about the changes to benefits and what to do if their circumstances change, for example if they lose their job or get ill.

Why is your work important to me as a resident? In the current climate and with the sweeping reforms to the welfare system, my role is key to making sure that residents can afford to pay their rent and/or receive benefits that they are entitled to. I can help residents who need one-to-one support with application forms for benefits, budgeting or help managing debts. How can I contact you? I’m based at the Moseley and District office and you can call me on 0300 111 7000.

Jargon buster Arrears – Money that you owe and haven’t paid on time. For example, you can be in ‘rent arrears’ – which means that you haven’t paid your rent by the due date. APR – This stands for Annual Percentage Rate. It’s often applied to loans and can be used to compare how much one will cost for the term you take it out for. For example, if you have a loan with an APR of 30 per cent, it’s going to cost a lot more than a loan with an APR of 12 per cent.

New films show how benefits are changing A series of new films showing how the changes to benefits could affect you are now available to watch online. The films, which you can watch at accordgroup.org. uk, feature a series of characters that will be

affected by the changes. One of the characters, Mr and Mrs Singh will be affected by the benefit cap, which will come into effect in September. The cap will put a limit on the total amount of benefit that most people aged 16-64 can get.

Lend a hand and

Six questions with Person

Money management Want to move? Swapping site could be right up your street

Our House

April, 2013

Available to watch now, the aim of the films is to help residents affected by the changes to benefits to understand more about them and what help and support is available.

scoop a voucher

Are you aged 18-61 and receive Housing Benefit to pay your rent? Then we need your help. We’re looking for residents from across the Accord Group to take part in a project which will see their Housing Benefit paid directly to them rather than their landlord. In return, the first 10 residents to sign-up and take part in the project will receive a £10 shopping voucher. Wendy Powell, Director of Transformation, who is heading up the project, said: “The Government plans to pay Housing Benefit direct to residents to encourage people to take responsibility for their finances. “To help us to understand and prepare for this change we need residents who are willing to make the switch before it comes into effect between October 2013 and October 2017.” To take part in the project, you must be: • Aged between 18-61 • Receiving Housing Benefit • Having your Housing Benefit paid directly to your association • Be willing to have your Housing Benefit paid to you now before the changes happen. To register your interest, email the Resident Engagement team at reteam@accordgroup.org.uk or call 0300 111 7000 extension 2067 or 9031. If you don’t want to volunteer but need help in understanding how the changes to benefits may affect you: Call the Customer First contact centre on 0300 111 7000 and ask to speak to your housing officer or email customerfirst@accordgroup.org.uk You can also call the Government information line on 0845 605 7064 or check entitledto.com to find out how you may be affected.

Who will this affect? Anyone of working age (16-61 years old) who rents from a council or housing association and gets any Housing Benefit.

Health and well-being

Our House

April, 2013

Our House

April, 2013

Walkabout dates for your diary Every month housing officers from Ashram Housing Association, Caldmoreaccord and Moseley and District take part in estate walkabouts. The walks give you a chance to flag up concerns, ask questions and get information about everything from jobs and skills to support services.

Moseley and District’s annual garden party is back and we want it to bigger and better than ever with your help. We want your suggestions for a theme for this year’s bash, which takes place on

Friday, 9 August at Moseley and District’s office in Alcester Road. Maybe you’d like a traditional tea party or a carnival-style gathering, whatever your ideas we would love to hear them.

You can send your suggestions to Joan Halstead, Resident Engagement Support Officer, by emailing reteam@accordgroup. org.uk or calling 0300 111 7000 extension 2067.

Super sleuths needed to spot-check services Budding super sleuths are being invited to sign up to a new scheme in which they’ll carry out spot-checks on the services of their housing association. The Accord Group’s Resident Engagement team want to recruit an army of armchair auditors to help to review the quality of services. Working alongside staff, volunteers will play a key role in identifying concerns or issues in their communities, and make recommendations for how they can be improved. They will also carry out regular spot-checks on services such as cleaning, landscaping and repairs, to review how they are carried out in practice. The armchair auditor initiative is open to all residents. To register your interest, call Abdul Mumith on 0300 111 7000 extension 9031 or email reteam@accordgroup.org.uk

Micro conferences cover the big issues

A previous Moseley and District garden party

Each year we host a conference to give you the chance to talk to us about important topics and issues. This year we’re shaking things up a little and instead of one large event, we’re hosting microconferences at venues across the Midlands.

Six questions withresident Person Message from your engagement officer

My name is Fiona Perry and I am the new Resident Engagement Officer for Caldmoreaccord, based in Darlaston. Since I started this role three months ago, I have been busy meeting the Residents’ Panel who work hard to improve services for you. If you have a concern or issue about your area or would like to raise a query about the services you receive via the Panel,

Getting involved

please contact me and I’ll put you in touch with them. In other news, our monthly Walk and Talk events, where we visit your estates and neighbourhoods, are going from strength-tostrength. We have been able to deal with a number of issues raised during the visits there and then, which is great.

Panel members will be attending the Walk and Talk sessions in the future to promote resident engagement and the benefits of getting involved. I’ll also be out and about in the coming months to consult with as many of you as possible. To join us on a Walk and Talk event, call me on 0300 111 7000 extension 2938 or email Fiona.Perry@ caldmoreaccordha.org.uk

By the time you read this newsletter, you may have attended one of the micro-conferences. If you haven’t, there are more events taking place across the region. Why not come along and speak to our experts about topics including changes to benefits, health and wellbeing and jobs, skills and training. Everyone who attends will be entered into a free prize draw to win shopping vouchers. To register your interest in coming along to a micro-conference, contact the Resident Engagement team on 0300 111 7000 extension 2014 or email reteam@ accordgroup.org.uk

Last year’s resident conference covered the issues that matter to you

Residents log-on to free internet training Scores of you took up the chance to get free training on using computers and the internet earlier this year.

Ashram • Wednesday, 10 April Albert Fern Gardens, Coventry • Wednesday, 17 April Parkview Drive, Birmingham • Wednesday, 24 April Tile Hill, Coventry and Lower Ground Clove, Witton Road, Birmingham

The sessions, advertised in the last edition of Our House, ran throughout January, February and March.

Caldmoreaccord • Tuesday, 30 April (10am-1pm) Newchurch Gardens, Erdington, Birmingham • Tuesday, 21 May (12pm -2pm) Nine Locks Ridge, Hill Street, Brierley Hill. • Thursday, 23 May (12pm-2pm) Maslen Place, Halesowen. • Wednesday, 19 June (10am -1pm) Woden Road, West Estate, Wednesbury. • Tuesday, 23 July (10am -3pm) High Arcal, Sedgley.

Other sessions are planned throughout the year and the Accord Group’s mobile office, the Buzz, will also be visiting estates and neighbourhoods to run workshops. For more information, call the Accord Group’s Resident Engagement team on 0300 111 7000 extension 2067/2064 or email reteam@ accordgroup.org.uk

Moseley and District • Friday, 5 April, Friday, 31 May and Friday, 26 July (from 10am) Starting at Harrisons Pleck, Moseley. • Tuesday, 9 April and 4 June (from 10am) Starting at Chesterton Court, Kings Heath. • Friday, 26 April and 21 June (from 10am) Starting at Clent Way, Bartley Green. • Tuesday, 30 April and 25 June (from 10am) Starting at Gough Road, Edgbaston. • Thursday, 2 May, 4 July (from 10am) Starting at Faraday Court, Quinton. • Tuesday, 7 May and 2 July (from 10am) Starting at Edward Street, Balsall Heath. • Thursday, 16 May and 11 July (from 10am) Starting at St Pauls Road, Balsall Heath. • Tuesday, 21 May and 16 July (from 10am) Starting at Annand House Palmerston Road, Sparkbrook. • Thursday, 23 May and 18 July (from 10am) Starting at St Albans Road, Moseley.

And the winner is...

The winners of Fry’s first award ceremony

Each workshop gave attendees a taste of using the web to do everything from managing money and shopping online to applying for benefits.

The achievements of Fry Housing Trust customers have been recognised at a glittering award ceremony. The event, held on Friday, 22 February, was the first ever ceremony especially for people who use Fry’s services. Award categories included creativity,

Digital project for young Brummies wants you! An innovative digital technology project to capture what it means to be a young person living in Birmingham today is looking for contributions. Social Breakfast’s ‘We Are the One Mil’ project is working with 16-25 year olds to create a colourful snapshot of what it’s like to live in Birmingham. Young people can contribute to the project by making their own films, music, blogs and photographs. Submissions will then be added to Social Breakfast’s website, socialbreakfast.org Jennifer Smith, Community Organiser for Social Breakfast, said: “With youth unemployment in the city standing at more than 14,000 it’s vital that we support young people to develop and demonstrate their skills and talents in digital technology to help them get jobs in the future.

“Our project is doing that and so much more, helping young people to be part of the wider community by demonstrating how they make a positive impact in it and what Birmingham means to them.” To contribute, or to find out more, visit socialbreakfast.org leadership, peer mentor, health and well-being, being involved and jobs and innovation. As well as receiving

awards, attendees also got to hear from guest speaker and former television presenter and newsreader Ashley Blake.

Getting involved

Our House

April, 2013

Birmingham

Snap up a new home in Sandwell Brand new homes have gone on sale at a flagship development in West Bromwich which is set to breathe new life into the town. The Urban 180 development will feature 63 three and four bedroom houses and apartments built to the highest standards. Each home will include money-saving photo-voltaic panels, fully-fitted bathrooms and kitchens as well as stylish bedrooms and a lounge area. Prospective purchasers can also benefit from a mortgage from Sandwell Council, which has set aside a £2 million fund to help first time buyers to get onto the property ladder.

To register your interest in the development, please visit accordgroup.org.uk and complete an enquiry form, selecting ‘Urban 180 development’ as the enquiry type.

Cooking up green homes with eco-kitchens More than 60 new homes that feature environmentally-friendly kitchens have been built in Birmingham. The development in Garretts Green, includes 62 rented homes and 11 part-buy, part-rent properties, each with kitchens that are responsibly

sourced. Ashram Housing Association is managing 17 of the new homes, which have been built by Mar City and Sanctuary Housing Association. Staff from both associations and local police have worked with new residents

to develop a ‘good neighbour agreement’, which sets out how neighbours are expected to behave. For more information about the development, contact Roshan Sandhu, Ashram’s Lead Officer for Garretts Green, on 0300 111 7000 extension 3822.

Rubbish problem binned in Darlaston Litter won’t be a problem at a Darlaston housing estate any longer after four new bins were installed. Caldmoreaccord fitted the bins at Iron Mill Way after residents reported problems with members of the public dropping rubbish. Paul Edmead, Community Housing Officer, said: “During a

Homes and communities

walkabout at Iron Mill Way it was flagged up that there was a problem with members of the public walking through the scheme and dropping litter. “By working closely with the council we have now fitted four new bins which has already had an impact on reducing litter.”

Repairs that could cost you Making sure that your home is in a good state of repair is really important to us and the contractors that we employ. However, if we visit and have to carry out a repair because you’ve neglected or damaged something in your home, then you could end up footing the bill. Gary Taylor, Asset Manager for Accord Group, said: “As a resident it’s important to be aware of your responsibilities in maintaining your home. “If our contractors visit

you and decide that a repair is necessary due to neglect or damage, it’s likely that you’ll be asked to do the repair yourself. “If you’re unable to do it, we can arrange for the work to be done but the cost will be recharged to you.” For more information or to report a routine repair, call the Customer First contact centre on 0300 111 7000, email customerfirst@ accordgroup.org.uk or complete a repair request form on your housing association’s website.

Service offers peace of mind at an affordable price Gas Safe-registered engineers are now on-hand to install your own gas and electric cookers, making sure that everything is done professionally and - above all - safely. Gas servicing is also available for appliances to keep things running efficiently and with prices starting at just £51 it’s very affordable. If you’re an Accord Group resident and are interested in finding out more, call the

Maintenance contracts offered to local firms

Homes and communities The whole scheme, which is being built between Bull Street, High Street and Overend Street, is expected to be completed by February 2014.

Our House

April, 2013

Estates and Facilities team on 01922 728 208 or email Estates.AndFacilities@ accordgroup.org.uk

Senior gas engineer, Jim Williams

In this edition of Our House, Fry Housing Trust – which has a number of supported housing schemes in Birmingham – tell you all you need to know about the country’s second city. Birmingham has the largest population in the UK outside London and is often called the second city. A visit to the city is a must for ‘arts’ lovers. Top arts organisations all over Birmingham devote a weekend in

early September to top notch performances, totally free. Concerts, theatre and film are scheduled at all the city’s major concert venues and theatres. There are also street performances and special events in neighbourhoods like Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. If you’re looking to relax, spend a lazy hour in the beautiful Sutton Park, admire the narrow boats as they float under the Broad Street

bridge or listen to some lunchtime jazz in the Symphony Hall. As well as this, Birmingham offers a huge array of cuisines at plenty of restaurants and cafes if you fancy a meal out. There are also lots of bars and clubs to visit. So whether you enjoy the fast pace of the city or something more relaxed Birmingham has lots to offer.

Firms based in Sandwell and Birmingham have been offered contracts to repair and maintain lifts and security equipment at housing schemes across the Midlands.

Fosters and Cross, based in Oldbury, will fit, maintain and repair lifts, stair lifts and hoists whilst Closed Circuit Security Services (CCSS) in Garretts Green will cover fire safety, security and door entry systems.

Work starts on Sandwell timber home development Work has begun on a new housing scheme of low carbon timber homes in West Bromwich. Nearly 40 new environmentally-friendly homes will be built on Beaconview Road by bchs and the Accord Group.

Panels for the two, three and fourbedroom homes will be manufactured at the Accord Group’s timber home factory in Walsall, before being delivered to the site where they will be erected.

Councillor Simon Hackett (centre) looks at plans for new homes

Eco home becomes reality for teen A budding eco-warrior who won a competition to design an ‘eco- home of the future’ has seen her creative concept brought to life. Jennifer Brook was just ten when she dreamed up a design for an environmentally-friendly home, as part of a region-wide competition. Now four years on, two homes based on Jennifer’s design are being erected as part of a 79-home, timber-frame housing development being built by Redditch Co-operative Homes.

Carl Taylor, Director of Redditch Co-operative Homes, said:

“We’re really pleased that we’ve finally been able to make Jennifer’s eco-home dream a reality.”

The 79 homes are being built on the site of the former Marlfield Farm Primary School in the Church Hill area

of Redditch and are set to be completed by December. Homes are available to buy at the scheme now from as little as £67,500* (for a 50 per cent share). To find out more, call Shipways Estate Agents on 01527 651 55. Jennifer Brook with Carl Taylor (Director of Redditch Co-operative Homes) and residents Simon and Michelle

Homes and communities

Our House

April, 2013

Around your way

Variety is the spice of life at cooking class Exotic tastes and flavours were on the menu at a Fry Housing Trust scheme when it hosted an Indian cooking master class. The session was held at Fry’s Coventry scheme and saw budding chefs learn how to make chapattis and a delicious curry. Recipe cards were given out on the day so that attendees could whip up the dishes again for family and friends.

One attendee said: “I really enjoyed it; the food was delicious and much cheaper than a take away.”

Events and activities from across the Group

Former seamstress has 100 years all sewn up Stephanie Milwain, Team Leader at Moxley Court, said: “Ellen is a lovely lady who doesn’t let her age get in the

way of enjoying life. She loves to dance and bake cakes and she really is the life and soul of any party.”

Ellen Broxton marked her milestone birthday with a glass of sherry alongside her friends, niece Lesley Hall and staff at Moxley Court care scheme in Wednesbury, where she lives.

Love was in the air at a Birmingham community hub when it opened its doors to local people and served up a budgetbusting Valentine’s Day meal. For just £4-a-head, people aged over 55 tucked in to a threecourse meal at Ashram Housing Association’s Ghulab Ashram extra care scheme and community hub.

As well as a delicious dinner there was music and dancing to entertain visitors and information available about the range of daily activities on offer at the Hall Green complex. The event was run by Taste for Life Birmingham, which you can read more about on page 5.

Shoppers bag free advice on benefits at pop-up store Walsall residents worried about the Government’s changes to benefits bagged free advice and information at a pop-up shop in the town.

Around our way

Based in the Saddlers Shopping Centre, the shop was run by Wincred, a partnership of local organisations including Caldmoreaccord, in February.

Refuge’s choir in fine voice A choir has been launched for women and children at a refuge managed by Ashram Housing Association. Called Harmony in My Life, the choir meet every two weeks and choose the songs that they want

to perform. Sahdaish Pall, Manager of the refuge, said: “These groups are a great way to build confidence because the magic of music unites everyone, no matter what their background is.”

Health course is just what the doctor ordered

Kim Gill, Resident Engagement and Wellbeing Worker, said; “Residents really enjoyed the course, they thought the facilitator was amazing and demonstrated every part of the course well.”

More than 16 residents from an extra care scheme in Birmingham have been getting top tips on managing conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Residents from Kalyan Ashram and members of the community completed the four-week course, which was run by Ashram Housing Association and the Health Exchange.

April 2013 Monday, 15 April (every Monday). Parent and toddler group, Central Hall Methodist Church, Ablewell Sreet, Walsall. 9.30am-11.30am. £1 per parent per session. Tuesday, 23 April (every Tuesday). Active steps (specialist exercise programme), Bloxwich Leisure Centre, High Street, Bloxwich, Walsall. 2.30pm-3.30pm. £1.50 per session.

Ellen Broxten celebrating her 100th birthday

Hub turns Cupid with meal for community

What’s on and where?

Bitesize chunks of news from across the Group

A former seamstress from Walsall who is still the “life and soul of any party” has toasted her 100th birthday.

Our House

April, 2013

Food bank donations flood in Eight months after a new food bank was launched in Balsall Heath, Moseley and District has promised to continue donations which provide a vital lifeline to families in need. Between July last year and January, staff at Moseley and District have donated 184kg – almost 29 stones – of produce, which is enough to provide emergency food to 10 families for three days. Peter Helly, Housing Officer at Moseley and District, said:

“We’re extremely pleased with the amount of food we have donated since the food bank was launched.”

Sunday, 28 April Spring craft fayre. Highbury Hall, Yew Tree Road, Moseley, Birmingham, B13 8QG. 11am-4pm. Free entry

May 2013 Tuesday, 7 May (every Tuesday/termtime only). Computer drop-in sessions. New Invention Library, 28 The Square, Lichfield Road, Willenhall, Walsall, WV12 5EA. 10am-12pm. To book call 01922 655570.

Saturday, 11 May (until 22 June). ‘Brush Strokes’ (commemorating the centenary of the death of the painter Alfred East), Dudley Museum and Art Gallery, St. James’s Road, Dudley. Free. Monday, 13 May (every Monday). Forest line dancing. Forest Community Centre, Hawbush Road, Walsall. 1.30pm onwards. £3 per session. For details call 01922 654555 or 492080.

June 2013 Tuesday, 4 June (each Tuesday/except school holidays). Salsa– size class (fun-filled exercise class). Lodge Road Community Centre, Lodge Road, West Bromwich. 12.45pm-1.30pm. For more information, contact Anita Andrews on 0121 580 2474 or email anita_ Andrews@sandwell. gov.uk

Wednesday, 19 June Farmer market. Upper New Street, near Victoria Square, Birmingham. 9am-6.30pm. Thursday, 27 June (every Thursday). Young persons’ gym. Blakenhall Community and Healthy Living Centre, Bromley Street, Blakenhall Wolverhampton. 4.30pm-5.30pm. (Please note that inductions are mandatory before use of the young persons’ gym).

Spring fun puzzle

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: Accord Group, c/o Claire Morrall, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 6QG. We’ll feature all completed entries on our Facebook page.

What’s on and where?

Our House

April, 2013

Competitions Quiz Simply 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, 27 May, 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 winter’s competition was Mr R Mellor from Stoke-on-Trent.

1: What two colours make up the flag of Poland? 2: What is the name of the school that character Harry Potter attended? 3: Which football club plays at the DW stadium? 4: What is the main ingredient in Italian dish risotto? 5: Who is the co-host of MasterChef alongside John Torode? 6: Which band’s songs is the new musical Viva Forever based on? 7: What is the name of the king whose remains were recently found in a Leicester car park? 8: What is the chemical formula for water? 9: Name the Dutch post- impressionist who famously painted ‘Sunflowers’? 10: You’ll find the next answer in this newsletter… How many residents completed last year’s Getting to Know You survey?

Wordsearch Simply 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, 27 May, 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.

1: Pear 2: Carrot 3: Cauliflower 4: Apple 5: Melon 6: Pineapple 7: Orange 8: Grape 9: Cherry 10: Cabbage 11: Broccoli 12: Rhubarb

The winner of winter’s wordsearch was Mr S Singh Matharu from Birmingham.

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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. Competitions