Our house spring 2014

Our House Your Group, your news

@theaccordgroup

In this issue...

facebook.com/accordgroup

youtube.com/theaccordgroup

Accord Group customer newsletter Spring, 2014

Happy birthday Frances

Budding chefs cook up qualifications

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p4

“I wake up every day feeling happy”

Awards joy for Fry customers

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p10

MP visits new eco homes

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Spring time spruce up coming to a neighbourhood near you Customers are being invited to pick up a paint brush and join staff in a project that will brighten up three neighbourhoods in the West Midlands.

From Monday, 12 to Friday, 16 May, 2014, the Accord Group will host its first Big Spring Spruce Up, which will see staff and customers work together to paint, clean and repair estates as voted for by you.

Organisers are looking for customers to volunteer for the Big Spring Spruce Up alongside staff. Potential areas that have been nominated and need volunteers include Birmingham, Walsall and Dudley.

As we went to print, the estates, some of which were suggested by you, were being shortlisted by customers on the Accord Group’s Facebook page. The shortlisted schemes will each receive a mini-makeover, with possible improvement work including painting, tidying, gardening and the creation of new community spaces.

If you’d like to volunteer for the Big Spring Spruce Up, call Ashley Lovell, from the Customer Engagement team, on 0300 111 7000 extension 9033 or email ashley.lovell@accordgroup.org.uk.

Ashely Lovell, from the Customer Engagement team, said: “The Big Spring Spruce Up is a great opportunity for staff and customers to come together to make improvements to an estate. Not only will it bring communities together but it will also help to boost everyone’s sense of pride in their areas.”

Don’t forget to keep a look out on our Facebook page facebook.com/ accordgroup for all the latest news on the Big Spring Spruce Up.

Families unlock new homes on former lock factory site A former Black Country lock factory has been opened up and transformed into much needed homes for families.

The 47 modern homes have been built on the Josiah Parkes factory site in Wood Street, Willenhall, which lay derelict for a decade before work began to transform it.

OUR MAGAZINE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. CHECK IT OUT INSIDE.

Resident Neil Hathaway (pictured centre) was one of the first to move in and was welcomed by Mike Hew, Chief Executive of Caldmoreaccord, and Councillor Adrian Andrew.

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Hello!

Get in touch...

Hello and welcome to the first Our House of 2014. We want to make this year’s newsletters even better and one way we’re doing this is by working with a newly formed Communications Forum.

The Forum, made up of customers, will come up with ideas for articles, review designs and proof read each newsletter. If the Forum sounds like something in which you’d be interested in getting involved in, call me on 0121 500 2340 or email clairemo@ accordgroup.org.uk Back to this issue which is packed full of news, views and features from your landlord and the wider Accord Group.

On page six, you can read Antony Taylor’s story. Antony is one of the first customers to undertake Accord’s training programme ROLE, which he says has had a huge impact on his life.

0300 111 7000

Facebook snapshot what you’re talking about

clairemo@ accordgroup.org.uk accordgroup.org.uk

/accordgroup

@theaccordgroup

s Valentine’s Day special –

Why you love where you live

/theaccordgroup Accord Group, 178 Birmingham Rd, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 6QG

“I live next door to the Arboretum which is amazing.”

“I am living in a brand new Accord house which I absolutely love and is situated within walking distance of the town. I don’t drive so this is perfect for me.”

“I love the people around me, friendly and always there to help.”

Also making an impression in this edition are the winners of Fry Housing Trust’s client awards.

They’ve achieved some great things during 2013 and have been recognised at an awards ceremony. You can read more about the awards on page 10.

Lastly, don’t forget to enter our competitions on page 16 to be in with a chance of winning some top prizes.

Enjoy the issue.

Claire

s Free catering qualification “Nice to see Accord using Facebook to get the message out - five stars, well done.”

The MAILBAG We’d like to wish a belated happy 100th birthday to Frances Wall, from Phoenix House.

Frances is still very independent and enjoys socialising with the other residents and her many visitors. She had two parties to celebrate her 100th birthday, one with residents and one with her family members, both were really lovely and lots of people helped her to celebrate this wonderful occasion.

Frances was overwhelmed with her many gifts and cards, especially the one from the Queen.

Beverley Miles, Estate Manager, Phoenix House, Birmingham

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Results of satisfaction survey announced The results of a customer satisfaction survey have revealed that seven out of 10 customers would recommend their housing association to close family and friends. A total of 660 of you completed and returned the survey we sent out last September. We would like to thank everyone who shared their thoughts and as promised, we can now reveal the results.

73.4% 69.4% 66.5% 73.9% Customers who would recommend their housing association to their close friends and family

Customers satisfied with their housing association

Customers who feel they are provided with opportunities to get involved

Customers who feel they are kept informed of the things that might affect them

53.4% 65.6% 68.1% 62.8% Customers who feel that they are listened to and their views are acted upon

Customers who feel they receive an excellent repairs service

Customers who feel that services are easy to access when needed

61.7% 71.8% 79.5% Customers who feel their neighbourhood is a nice place to live

Customers who feel they live in a quality home

Customers who feel valued despite their age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, faith and/ or financial circumstances

Customers who feel they receive value for money for the rent/service charges they pay

Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Wedgbury from Redditch who won the first prize of £75 in the prize draw for this survey

We know there is room for improvement and have listened to your views and discussed them with local teams.

There are key areas that we’ll be working on over the next few months and some of you will be helping us to do this.

We will provide updates on improvements and will be carrying out another survey in October, so that we can keep improving.

What we’ve done so far

Carried out stock condition surveys to identify where improvements to homes are needed

Started to make contact with customers to get information about their experiences of recent repairs

Spoken to customers who asked for a personal response to topics such as anti-social behaviour, parking and the responsibilities of shared owners

Important change for care and support customers From 1 May, we will be using a new system to monitor when staff providing care and support to customers in their own homes arrive and leave.

Called StaffPlan, it will ensure the Accord Group get the right person to the right place at the right time and charge the right cost for the service. A small black sticker will be attached to each customers’ care plan. When an Accord Group carer or support worker visits, they will swipe this sticker twice – once when they enter and once when they leave. Customers in Walsall will be the first to try the new scheme. Everyone who will be affected by the changes will be written to in advance.

StaffPlan will help Accord plan its care services

If you have any questions, please call Deborah Rostant on 0300 111 7000.

Your NEWS

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Health and Well-being Course helps would-be chefs cook up catering qualification Would-be young chefs in Walsall are enjoying a taste of success by taking part in a free course which will lead to a catering qualification.

The 33-week course, which started in March, is being undertaken by 16-21 year old residents of Caldmoreaccord.

Everyone who completes it will be awarded a Level One or Two Food Safety Catering Award.

They’ll also be given a set of standard larder ingredients to help them put into practice what they have learnt during the course, which is funded by Children in Need.

Young people stir up success with cooking course

Walk this way to fitness Do you want to increase your daily activity levels or just get out and meet some new people? Then why not join a free, gentle and weekly walking group.

Ashram’s Ribbon Court (which you can read more about on the next page) in Coventry hosts Health Walks every Wednesday from 10.30am to 11.45am. All walks are managed by a trained walk leader. For more information, contact Kim Gill, Resident Engagement and Well-being Worker, on 0121 358 9051 or email kimgi@ashramha.org.uk

Staying safe in the

Whether you’re preparing for your summer holidays or just enjoying the sunshine at home, here are some helpful hints and tips to protect yourself in the hot weather.

Seek shade

Drink fluids

Recipe Bread pudding Ingredients Six slices of bread – preferably a few days old Two tablespoons/30g of butter melted Half a cup/80g of raisins (optional) Three eggs (beaten) Two cups/475ml of milk Half a cup/100g of white sugar One teaspoon/2g of ground cinnamon One teaspoon/5ml of vanilla extract Method 1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or Gas Mark 4.

2. Tear up the bread slices into small to medium sized pieces and place them in a pre-greased eight inch square pan.

3. Drizzle the melted butter on top of the bread pieces and sprinkle the raisins all over the bread.

4. Measure and mix together the beaten eggs, milk, cinnamon, sugar and vanilla extract in a medium sized bowl and pour the mixture all over the bread.

5. Use a fork or spoon to lightly press the bread down (this helps the bread absorb the mixture).

6. To coat all the bread pieces mix it up slightly to ensure an even spread.

7. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes.

8. Remove from the oven, leave to cool, cut into pieces and serve.

Recipe provided by Ian Cook, member of Victoria Housing Co-operative.

Wear a hat

Protect yourself

Check the date

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One of the best ways to protect yourself is to find shade under trees, umbrellas, canopies or indoors.

Take in fluids frequently, preferably in small amounts to avoid dehydration.

A wide-brimmed hat will shade your face and head, the areas which suffer most from sunlight.

Apply plenty of sunscreen and reapply it regularly especially on children or vulnerable people.

Don’t forget to check the expiry date on your sunscreen. Most sunscreens have a shelf life of two to three years.

Get more information on Cancer Research UK’s sun smart website sunsmart.org.uk Your GROUP

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Spring, 2014

FIVE FACTS ABOUT

Modern and welcoming Ribbon Court is base d in Coventry

Spotlight on...

Ribbon Cour t

What is Ribbon Court? scheme in Coventry with 50 Ribbon Court is an extra-care sheltered housing aged over 55. one and two-bedroom apartments for people Where is it? in between the Great Situated on the Foleshill Road, Ribbon Court is to Edgwick Park and Heath and the Foleshill areas of Coventry. It’s near ding hairdressers, a conveniently close to a whole host of shops, inclu convenience store and butchers.

What’s the best thing about Ribbon Court? kly walking group (which There’s always something going on. From our wee activities, there’s plenty to you can read more about opposite) to events and ial coffee morning with the get involved in. On 28 April, we’ll be hosting a spec Health Awareness Week.

MS Society and in May, we’ll be marking Mental

Janine Hayes is the Accord Group’s Dementia Café Co-ordinator

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dementia During May, the country will mark National Dementia Awareness Week (18-24).

Dementia affects 800,000 people across the UK and symptoms commonly include memory loss, confusion and problems with speech and understanding. Janine Hayes (pictured), Dementia Advisor for the Accord Group, shares five facts about the condition.

A third of people with dementia live on their own in the community.

However, only 23 per cent of people think it’s possible for people with dementia to live on their own.

One in three people over the age of 65 will develop the condition.

Can I live there?

55. If this is you, and To live at Ribbon Court, you have to be aged over d apartment with access to you want to live in a modern and well-equippe please get in touch. communal facilities including a restaurant, then

Dementia costs the UK around £23 billion.

How can I find out more information?

360 or email You can call the scheme directly on 02476 662 ribboncourt@ashramha.org.uk

38 per cent of people with dementia feel lonely.

“Volunteering keeps me fit” says Keith There are lots of reasons why people choose to exercise, from keeping fit and healthy to losing weight. For Keith Jellyman, from Wolverhampton, health problems, including a triple heart bypass six years ago, spurred him on to get fit.

Now Keith walks three to four miles twice a week and volunteers at Accord’s Moxley Court care scheme, both of which he says keep him active.

“I was a lorry driver all my life and you don’t do much exercise in that job,” said Keith. “I went into rehab after the bypass and I got into exercise. I was really enjoying it and then my daughter saw a leaflet for a walking group. I now volunteer as a walk leader.”

Volunteering also keeps the 65-year-old fit, both physically and mentally, as he explains. “I do lots of walking up and down stairs and I’m on the go for five or six hours,” he said.

“I get a lot of satisfaction from interacting with the residents too. Knowing that you’ve made someone happy by just chatting for a few minutes is very rewarding.”

If you’d like to volunteer with the Accord Group, contact Irene Casserley on 01922 728 203.

The Accord Group runs a number of dementia café support groups in Sandwell and Walsall for people who have dementia and those who care for someone with the condition. To find out more, call Kelly Hall on 0300 111 7000 or 07793 699 141 or email kelly.hall@accordgroup.org.uk.

Week will highlight how to prevent risk of falls According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, people aged over 65 are most at risk of falling and a fall can cause injury, loss of confidence and distress.

From 18-22 June, Age UK will raise awareness of the issue during Falls Prevention Week. In Coventry, Ashram Housing Association will be working with Age UK to highlight the issue during a special event between 18-22 June at Ribbon Court in Foleshill.

As well as lots of information on falls, Spec Savers will be offering free eye checks, they’ll be a Tai Chi demo, Fit as a Fiddle light exercises, a fun quiz and much more.

For more information, contact Kim Gill, Resident Engagement and Well-being Worker, on 0121 358 9051 or email kimgi@ashramha.org.uk

Your NEWS

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Jobs, Skills and Training Since I started ROLE I wake up every day feeling

for

Getting online Do you think computers and the internet aren’t for you? Here are four fun and practical reasons why they could be.

You can 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.

The changes to benefits mean you’ll be expected to apply for them online and even manage claims through an online account.

Websites like Facebook help you to stay in touch with friends and family whilst other sites offer information on everything from cooking to canoeing. Check out our Facebook page at facebook.com/ accordgroup Lots of websites offer incentives to purchase or book something online, saving you cash and time. You can also download vouchers and money-saving offers.

Our Learning Lab in Walsall has just become an online centre. Read more about it on the next page.

For affordable tablets, laptops and PCs, turn to page 15

Antony Taylor with Learning and Development Advisor Sarah McQuoid

In the last edition of Our House, we told you about ROLE - the Accord Group’s Recruitment, Opportunities, Learning and Employment programme which will create 150 apprenticeships over the next three years.

Antony Taylor (pictured), a Moseley and District customer, is amongst the first to take part in the project and is set to start an apprenticeship in care and support soon.

The 22 year-old says he gets a lot of satisfaction from caring for others and can relate to those experiencing mental health problems following a period of depression.

He said: “Saima (Yaqub - Learning and Development Advisor for the Accord Group) phoned me and asked if I’d like to take part in an apprenticeship. I didn’t really know about the care side of Accord until she phoned and I jumped at the chance. Now I’m enjoying it a lot.

“I didn’t know if I wanted to go into care or not and then over the last year or so because of my mental health condition, I can actually relate to people now.

“I get a lot of satisfaction caring for others, it really makes me happy to do it.

It’s a great feeling. Ever since I started ROLE, I wake up every morning happy and can’t wait to get out and about.”

ROLE is open to all customers and their immediate family, aged 17 or over.

Preference will be given to people who are unemployed but those in parttime or temporary work will also be considered.

To register your interest in ROLE, or for more information, call Saima Yaqub on 0300 111 7000, text 07900730600 or email role@accordgroup.org.uk

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FIVE QUESTIONS FOR…

Tina Dalton Transformation Officer for Caldmoreaccord

The Learning LAB is now a UK Online Centre

Advice hub helps more than 160 An advice hub in Walsall has been visited by more than 160 job seekers since it opened its doors last year.

The Learning LAB, run by Caldmoreaccord, was launched in January 2013, to help residents and the general public to search for employment or training and get help with CV writing and job applications.

Since then, it has been visited 166 times and it has now become a registered UK Online Centre, meaning it can provide access to further training packages.

What does your job involve on a day-to-day basis?

My job involves researching new projects and planning how to make them work. We pilot projects aimed at supporting people into work or towards better health and well-being. The Time for Real time bank is an example of this. It’s a skill swapping project which reaches out to people living in isolation or experiencing ill health.

How long have you worked in your current job and what did you do before?

I have worked in my current job for two years.

Before that, I was a Customer Service Officer in Caldmore. Before this, I worked in the wet film processing industry for 15 years.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

There are many things I like about my job, but what I like most is the little things we do for people and noticing how big a difference they make to them.

Why is what you do important to me?

Me and the team that I work in look for projects that will improve customers’ lives. The time bank is a great example of this and now has 74 members who in total have exchanged 1,000 hours, which is the equivalent of 142 working days.

How can I contact you?

You can call me on 01922 705280 or email me at Tina.Dalton@caldmoreaccordha.org.uk. For Time for Real time bank enquiries, call 01922 630364 or email enquiries@timeforreal.org.uk

Caldmoreaccord’s Transformation team, which manages the hub, is also establishing a clothes bank to provide clothing to customers who are attending an interview or starting a job.

For more information about using the Learning LAB, call 01922 630 364 or email JobsandSkills@accordgroup.org.uk

es ci n ca a v g n ri e te n lu o v d n a s b Jo ncies listed below, visit To apply for any of the vaca t ck on Jobs. Please note tha accordgroup.org.uk and cli method aren’t accepted. applications via any other team the Resourcing and Talent For more information, call on 0300 111 7000.

Jobs

– ) day and night opportunities n Personal care assistant(s Tipton, Sandwell (homecare/domiciliary) – n Personal care assistant Solihull and Shirley – Sparkbrook, Birmingham n Personal care assistant ) – Coventry n Personal care assistant(s

Volunteering

gbaston, Birmingham n Allotment gardener – Ed 16-24 (financial inclusion project for n Pay Ahead, Stay Ahead and various, Birmingham year olds) mentor, Moseley service – Telford, Shropshire n Librarian in older people’s service – Telford, Shropshire n IT mentor in older people’s r – Walsall n Dementia café voluntee on 01922 es, contact Irene Casserley rol g rin tee lun vo re mo r Fo .org.uk erley@caldmoreaccordha 728 203 or email irene.cass

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Money Management FIVE QUESTIONS FOR…

Teresa Jones

Money Advisor for Caldmoreaccord

THE LOW-DOWN ON…

Help to Work

What does your job involve on a day-to-day basis?

I work with customers to maximise their benefits and look at budgeting advice. I help them understand their priority debts and give advice on any benefits they may be entitled to.

I also assist customers to complete application forms and signpost them to other services, like our jobs and skills service.

How long have you worked in your current job and what did you do before?

I started this job last August and before then I worked for 33 years for Stoke-on-Trent City Council in their revenues section, recovering all monies outstanding to the authority. I also worked closely with customers to maximise their benefits and to reduce debts.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Working with customers when they have money issues and being able to help them. This help can be in many forms including, applying for benefits, appealing decisions when benefits have been stopped and budgeting advice.

Why is what you do important to me?

I can assist you if you’re struggling to pay your rent or any other household bills, if you need help with your benefit forms, if you have had benefit refused and don’t know where to go for help or if you are having difficulty in opening a bank account.

How can I contact you?

You can call me on 01922 705 767 or email me at teresa.jones@caldmoreaccordha.org.uk

Your GROUP

Help to Work placements will boost claimants CVs

This month the Government will launch its Help to Work initiative for long-term unemployed people who have completed the Work Programme and have not found work.

Under Help to Work, Job Seekers Allowance claimants returning from the work programme who don’t have a job will go onto one of three intensive types of support, as decided by a Job Centre Plus Advisor:

If people don’t participate in a community work placement, they will have their Job Seekers Allowance stopped for four weeks for a first failure and 13 weeks for a second failure.

Six months on a full-time community work placement will provide claimants with a significant boost to their CV and allow them to show employers their skills.

If you are out of work and need help: n Speak to your Job Centre Plus advisor n Go to a work club nearby – the Job Centre Plus can give you a list in your area

n One third will go on the Mandatory Intervention Regime (MIR), which is currently operating in Job Centre Plus (JCP)

n Call the Job Centre Plus on 0845 6060 234 or textphone 0845 6055 255

n One third will sign on in a Job Centre every day for up to three months

We can help too

n One third will be referred to community work placements.

Community work placements, which are expected to start on 28 April, will see claimants undertake a compulsory full time work placement for up to 26 weeks.

n Visit gov.uk/moving-from-benefits-towork.

Did you know that we have jobs and skills coaches? They can help with CV writing, helping you to get online, guide you through job searches and help you complete applications for jobs.

To contact them, call 0300 111 7000 and ask to speak to a jobs and skills coach or email customerfirst@accordgroup.org.uk

A NEW SUPPLEMENT FOR YOUNG CUSTOMERS OF THE ACCORD GROUP

SPRING 2014

A group of promising high-flying entrepreneurs from Birmingham and the Black Country are getting set to travel to Holland after being picked to take part in a business mentoring programme.

The young people (pictured), aged 18-25, will spend 13 weeks in Amsterdam as part of the exciting initiative, being run by the Accord Group and Impact Hub Amsterdam.

VOLUNTEERING

how it can help you get ahead

MOVIES / MUSIC / BOOKS BROUGHT TO YOU IN ASSOCIATION WITH

the latest reviews

SAVE MONEY your top tips

This time in

Welcome to the Mix – a twice yearly magazine especially for young people aged 12-18.

In this edition you can read about James Rhead. Having become unemployed, James struggled to find work before volunteering boosted his confidence and resulted in a paid job. You can read his inspirational story on page three.

If you’re getting ready for the world of work and want to make your CV stand out from the crowd, you’ll be interested in our youth training programme. You can read all about it on page three.

Is there an issue that you want to shout about? Maybe it’s something that is happening in your community, on your doorstep, or a topic that you’re really passionate about?

Then why not get involved in this magazine? Send your ideas for articles to Claire Morrall by emailing clairemo@ accordgroup.org.uk or call 0121 500 2340.

Get in touch...

There are also reviews and a survey to keep you entertained this Spring. Don’t forget, if you have any views on the newsletter or want to get involved in it, email Editor Claire Morrall at clairemo@accordgroup.org.uk, post a comment on facebook.com/accordgroup or tweet us @theaccordgroup

0300 111 7000 clairemo@accordgroup.org.uk accordgroup.org.uk /accordgroup @theaccordgroup /theaccordgroup Accord Group, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 6QG

WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE YOU’VE EVER HAD? “Always take time to find the best deal, shop around to find the cheapest option.”

Tony from Small Heath

“Find help as soon as you realise you can’t make ends meet.”

fazana from Birmingham

“Never borrow money from an unlicensed lender, even if it’s someone you know.”

melissa from Yardley

“Bring your own lunch to work. I was surprised by just how much I saved.”

james from Stoke

“I save money by planning my spending in the month ahead and budget to make the most of my money.”

Abu from Tipton

YOUTH TRAINING PROGRAMME

James Rhead

shares his story...

ARE YOU AGED 16 TO 25, GETTING READY FOR THE WORLD OF WORK AND WANT TO BOOST YOUR CV? THEN WE CAN HELP. Our new youth training programme is offering you the chance to volunteer in a range of different roles and departments to learn new skills and meet new people. You’ll even get an accreditation and it is classroom free, practical and won’t cost you a penny to enrol.

Ashley Lovell, Customer Engagement Apprentice, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to back up your CV with evidence and a certificate as well as gaining some all-important experience. We have a range of opportunities for you to get involved with.”

There are 12 spaces available for the accredited certificate and places are allocated on a first come, first served basis.

For more information about the programme or other opportunities, visit Accord’s Facebook page, or contact Ashley Lovell on 0121 358 9033 or 07900730664 or email ashley.lovell@accordgroup.org.uk

Reviews

“My journey started when I first moved to Birmingham. I had spent a substantial amount of time unemployed. The combination of not having a routine and doing very little constructively with my time was the worst thing about being unemployed.

“Based on a recommendation from the Job Centre, I decided to volunteer. I did a quick search for charities and not-for-profits that were looking for help. Since I wanted to improve my communications and marketing prospects, I wanted to see what their digital qualifications were like.

“To my surprise Social Breakfast was the only one that had a fully functioning website. It was also a bonus that their aims, values and interests were similar to my own.

“I sent in my details and was asked along for a quick chat. I volunteered at Social Breakfast for a month before I was hired for its ‘We are the One Mil’ campaign.

“Part time work changed to full time work after a few months when I was promoted to a senior member of the project. A month or two towards the end of the campaign an opportunity came up with Pay Ahead, Stay Ahead, a project aimed at helping young people avoid debt.

“I applied for the project officer role and got the job. I am currently managing a small team, meeting with organisations across the city, managing social media and managing the website, all duties that are essential to the project’s success. The transition from volunteering to employment all happened within the space of a year.

“Not only did volunteering for Social Breakfast give me something worthwhile to do with my time, but it encouraged me to be creative and ambitious, something very few other charities and not-for-profits prioritise.”

by Amy Hedgecock

Book

music

film

Rookie Yearbook Two

Cavalier Youth - You Me At Six

The Spectacular Now

‘Rookie’ is an online magazine for teenage girls, edited by 17 year-old Tavi Gevinson. The site explores a new theme each month and posts three times each day. It’s filled with pieces ranging from interviews with Morrissey and Emma Watson to articles on how to create your own journal. Rookie reaches out to young girls, it doesn’t delve into celebrity gossip or make girls feel inferior. The site regularly posts photosets which have previously contained people who look like regular girls you would see on the street. Rookie listens to what its readers want and gives it to them. This book is a collection of the best articles from over the past year and contains every article a teen girl could ever want to read. An essential guide to being a girl in the 21st century.

HHHH

With a generally softer tone than Sinners Never Sleep, ‘Cavalier Youth’ is a love letter to youth and growing up. The album features the singles Lived A Lie and Fresh Start Fever as well as ten new tracks. The songs feel slightly less personal than previous You Me At Six albums and a little more clichéd. However, the album also features tracks like Cold Night which is definitely the slowest and most romantic of the 13. You Me At Six have made a clear transition from being a pure rock band to exploring more radio-friendly choruses and up-tempo beats. It is clear that they are aiming to reach the masses with this album and seem to have succeeded as it is currently at number one in the UK album charts (at the time of writing). Slightly less impressive than previous albums but still a pleasant listen.

The Spectacular Now is 500 Days of Summer screenwriters Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber’s faultless adaptation of the 2008 Tim Tharp novel. The film follows protagonist Sutter Keely (Miles Teller) through his last year of high school. Sutter’s approach to life is to ‘live in the now’ and to not envisage the future, with no plans for life after graduation. Sutter is the life of every party and is never without a large drink.

The film sees Sutter lose his girlfriend Cassidy (Brie Larson) and fall for geeky classmate Aimee Finicky (Shailene Woodley). The Spectacular Now explores the yearn for eternal youth but also the juxtaposition and importance of dreams. This film is a delight from start to finish, giving a realistic portrayal of adolescence and a perfect watch for fans of romantic teen comedies.

HHH

HHHHH

We want to know your thoughts on what’s important to you so that we can shape our youth services to meet your needs.

To be in with the chance of winning a £25 voucher of your choice, please fill in the questionnaire below and send it to: The Accord Group, c/o Ashley Lovell, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, B70 6QG Remember to include your name, address and a phone or email contact and the name of your housing association. One person will be chosen at random from all completed questionnaires.

Address

Q6. Would you be willing to join a focus group? n Yes n No n Maybe

Post code

YO U A N D YO U R LO C A L A REA

Email address

Q7. How strongly do you agree with the following?

There are lots of activities for young people to get involved with n Strongly disagree n Disagree n Unsure n Agree n Strongly agree

Young people have a voice and are listened to in the local area n Strongly disagree n Disagree n Unsure n Agree n Strongly agree

Name

Contact number Housing association

CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT Q1. Please tick your age range n 16-18 n 19-21 n 22-25 Q2. What do you know about customer engagement? n Nothing at all n I have heard of it, but I’m unsure n I have heard of it and I have some idea n I know and understand what it is Q3. Have you been involved with customer engagement before? n Yes n No Q4. What would attract you to get involved in the future? n Incentives such as vouchers, day trips etc. n Opportunity to shape services/ have a say n Meeting new people n Opportunities such as training n Other (please specify)

Q5. Do you feel that you would get involved in future events and activities? n Yes n No n Maybe

Local people have a negative view of young people n Strongly disagree n Disagree n Unsure n Agree n Strongly agree It’s hard for young people to find work n Strongly disagree n Disagree n Unsure n Agree n Strongly agree Q8. What activities and events would you like to see happening in your area? n Sports n Fashion n Music/dance n Social events n Fun days n Other (please specify)

The Accord Group, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 6QG. Tel: 0300 111 7000 Email: clairemo@accordgroup.org.uk Twitter: @theaccordgroup Facebook: facebook.com/accordgroup accordgroup.org.uk

Q9. What are some of the issues that young people face in your area? n Jobs and skills shortage n Health n No affordable accommodation n Threats of homelessness n Crime and anti-social behaviour n Gangs n Negative stereotypes n Other (please specify)

Q10. Please take this time to tell us about some of your hobbies and interests

Our HOUSE

Spring, 2014

Money saving + budgeting apps

9

HOW IT WORKS…

Household Benefit Cap If you’re aged 16 to 64, there is a limit on the total amount of benefit you can get. This is called the benefit cap. To help you to understand how it works, we’ve answered some questions you may have.

With changes to benefits and the rise in energy bills, we understand that more than ever there is a strain on your finances.

To give you a helping hand, Ayola Beckford, Accord’s Web Officer, suggests five free apps to help you manage your money.

Visual budget Android and IOS Compatible Helps you manage your money day-to-day. At the end of the week or month, you can turn your expenses into a visual diagram.

Vouchercloud Android and IOS compatible A savvy spending app which uses your location to identify offers within or near your local area, from food and shopping vouchers to money off days out.

Shopitize Android and IOS compatible Once you register for Shopitize, you can access a variety of products at many well-known supermarkets and get cashback for the items you purchase.

Banking apps

I’m aged 16-64, am I going to be affected?

You may be affected if you get more than the following amount in benefit: n £500 a week – if your household is made up of a couple (with or without children) or if you’re a lone parent and you have children living with you who you are responsible for when working out your Housing Benefit n £350 a week - If you’re a single person and either, you have no children, or you don’t have children living with you who you are responsible for when working out your Housing Benefit.

How does the benefit cap work?

If you’re getting more than the benefit cap, your Housing Benefit will be reduced to make sure that the total you receive is not more than the cap. In the long-term, the benefit cap will be applied as part of the new Universal Credit system.

I’ve heard that there are exemptions. Is this right?

Yes. You won’t be affected if you qualify for any of the following, Working Tax Credit, Disability Living Allowance (or Personal Independence Payment), Attendance Allowance, Industrial Injuries Benefits (and equivalent payments as part of a war disablement pension or the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme), the support component of Employment and Support Allowance or the War Widow’s or War Widower’s Pension.

How can I get more information?

You can visit your housing association’s website where you’ll find a comprehensive benefits section and money advice page. There’s also useful information on the Money Advice Service’s website moneyadviceservice.org.uk. You can also speak to your housing officer or money advisor by calling 0300 111 7000 or email customerfirst@accordgroup.org.uk

Barclays Santander, Natwest, HSBC, TSB etc.

Check whether your bank or building society has a mobile app.

Most are compatible with IOS and Android. It’s a great way to manage your money on the move.

Spending tracker IOS compatible Features of this app include tracking how much money you are spending and creating a spending limit.

Loan shark

Bankruptcy

A person who isn’t licensed and therefore illegally lends money. If you borrow money from someone who doesn’t have a licence you haven’t broken the law.

A court order that you can apply for if you’re in debt. Once bankrupt, an official takes control of your money, property and creditors.

Your NEWS

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Our HOUSE

Spring, 2014

Award joy for Fry customers It was a night of celebration for Fry customers when they were recognised with awards for their achievements over the last year.

Held on 21 February, the second Fry Housing Trust awards saw 22 shortlisted customers attend, along with staff and Board members.

The hotly anticipated ceremony, held in Birmingham, was opened by Jonathan Robinson, author of IN IT, which describes his time in prison.

Following a dinner, the winners were revealed and awarded a trophy and certificate of achievement, both presented by Jonathan and a Fry Board Member.

The winners were: Creativity award – David Wright from Solihull Health and Well-being award – Stephen Stevens from Sandwell Being Involved award – Lee Allmark from Nuneaton Leadership award – Chris Bishop from Moseley (read more about Chris opposite) Jobs and Innovation award – Christopher O’Reilly from Moseley Peer Mentor award – Leon Walker from Nuneaton Being Green award – Moseley scheme Community Engagement award – Julie Gibson from Coventry Above: The winners celebrate Below: Jonathan Robinson addresses the guests

Congratulations to all who were nominated, runners-up and winners.

This year has seen the launch of the Accord Group’s new customer forums and panels. As such, we’ll be introducing a new one in each edition of Our House.

Who is the scrutiny panel?

There are seven members on the panel who represent tenants and supported housing customers. Chair, Jean Watson, has over two years’ experience in scrutiny with Moseley and District. We also have three improvement and scrutiny advisors who work alongside us.

What do you do?

We scrutinise, review and monitor services to ensure that they are of good quality and meet customers’ needs. By scrutinising the information that is provided to us, we decide which services should be reviewed, develop reports and make recommendations to the organisation.

What have you achieved so far?

Last year, we completed reviews on customer services and looked at what the organisation had put in place to support customers with the changes to benefits. You can ask to see copies of our reports. We’re currently finishing a report on learning disabilities services too, so watch out for information about this.

What are your future plans?

We want to tell customers more about what we do, so plan to publish our work in editions of Our House and on Accord’s Facebook page.

How do I join the panel?

Contact the Customer Engagement team on 0121 500 2014 or email reteam@accordgroup.org.uk

Your GROUP

Spotlight on...

Accord Group’s scrutiny panel

Our HOUSE

Spring, 2014

11

Deputy Chair praises garden project The Deputy Chair of Fry Housing Trust has heaped praise on a project which saw a customer dig deep to transform the garden at the scheme where he lives.

Keen resident gardener Chris Bishop, transformed the garden at the scheme that he lives at into an impressive area where residents can socialise or grow vegetables. Chris said: “I decided to get the garden project started to give other residents something to do. It can be therapeutic to come outside and learn how to grow your own fruit and vegetables.

Above: Chris Bishop shows Roger Clough around the newly revamped garden

Roger Clough, Deputy Chair of Fry’s Board, said: “It’s very impressive and a lot of work has gone in to it. We are looking at it in the Winter time now and if it looks impressive now, you know it will look really special when plants start coming through.”

Not only has the garden project been enjoyable for Chris, it has also allowed other residents to get involved and inspired Chris to start his own business.

“The garden project has given me the confidence to start my own business,” said Chris. “I’m working with Mike Rogers, Fry Housing Trust’s Employment and Skills Advisor, who is helping me with my aim to build up a business where I can employ ex-offenders and people with disabilities.”

Garden looks lush and green

Arden Park gives Facebook thumbs up

Photographs taken by John Gray.

“Hopefully we can use what we grow in the kitchen or even sell it on to the community.”

Newly formed residents’ association Arden Park in Tile Hill, Coventry, has set up its own Facebook page.

They need just 26 ‘likes’ for their page to become an official group, with the running total currently standing at 17 ‘likes’ You can view the page – which has all sorts of information and updates – at facebook.com/#!/pages/Arden-Park-Residents-association

Customers sow the seeds for a community harvest From strawberries and carrots to potatoes and tomatoes, if it can be eaten greenfingered customers in Stourbridge are growing it.

There are 32 members of the gardening club at sheltered housing scheme Westland Gardens, managed by Caldmoreaccord.

Each member does what they can to help the garden blossom, from digging and making raised flower beds to helping sow seeds.

All the food that they grow and harvest is shared amongst neighbours and this year,

they plan to clear a patch of overgrown land and display beautiful flowers in hanging baskets.

Bill Cash is just one of the residents who digs deep to keep the gardens looking great all year round. He said: “Since Paige (Williams, Scheme Manager) suggested clearing an unused area to start to plant our own vegetables and flowers, I have worked on the project with her and other resident volunteers to make it work. I have personally made raised beds to do planting, also pointing and painting the back wall where shrubs and ivy

had been cut away, this allows for residents to be able to sit out in the better weather and just enjoy the surroundings.”

Bill Cash and Brenda Deeley pot flowers ready to display at Westland Gardens

How I make a difference… with resident Dean Tabner When it comes to explaining what Dean Tabner does around his housing scheme in Stafford, it’s easier to list the things he doesn’t do. From litter picking and changing light bulbs to site inspections, Dean makes a huge difference at Exchange House in his role as volunteer caretaker.

“We had a good neighbour who was a caretaker but he left,” explains Dean. “I was having problems finding work and I saw an article in the newsletter about volunteering. I got in touch and it went from there.”

A year has passed since Dean took up the voluntary role and since then he has undertaken courses in manual handling and fire safety. He has also shadowed Peter Francis, Estates Officer at Caldmoreaccord, and learnt how to repair cupboards, change broken glass, plastering and painting.

Dean is most proud of the money that he helped Caldmoreaccord to save by working out how to fix a problem with the electrics at Exchange House and the feedback he has received from others.

“I helped to save around £5,000,” said Dean. “People have said how nice the estate looks and that it’s brighter and cleaner. I’ve really learnt a lot and the experience looks good on my CV.”

Dean Tabner makes a difference at Exchange House in Stafford

Do you know someone who makes a difference in your community? Tell us about them by calling 0121 500 2340 and we’ll feature them right here in Our House.

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Our HOUSE

Spring, 2014

Homes and Communities YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED…

anti-social behaviour Stuart Rochelle (pictured right), Locality Team Manager at Caldmoreaccord, answers the questions that you may have about antisocial behaviour (ASB).

Housing with a helping hand now available

What is anti-social behaviour (ASB)?

Broadly speaking, it is behaviour that causes, or can cause, persistent distress or alarm.

Across the Accord Group, locally based teams investigate issues such as noise nuisance, harassment, illegal activity in the home, domestic violence and fly-tipping.

What do you do about it?

We work with the police, environmental health, social services and local neighbourhood partnerships. When you report ASB, you may be asked to speak with these agencies. For example, noise nuisance cases may need to be reported to environmental health or criminal matters to the police. The information reported can be vital to your landlord should legal action be needed, against the tenancy, further down the line.

How can reporting anti-social behaviour help?

It’s proven that early intervention, such as mediation, advice and guidance, can help to resolve issues before they escalate. This helps to deal with issues as they arise and offers a better chance of the matter being fully resolved.

What tools do you have at your disposal to tackle anti-social behaviour?

We have lots of useful tools. Firstly, we offer starter tenancies to residents who are new to social housing. This tenancy offers an initial probationary period of 12 months. We have a vast amount of in-house experience which allows us to effectively deal with perpetrators confidently, keeping legal costs to a minimum and we have mobile/covert CCTV and noise recording equipment.

What should I do if I’m being affected by anti-social behaviour?

If you are affected by ASB, please contact us on 0300 111 7000 and you will be put in touch with the person responsible for dealing with the issue in your area.

Facts about ASB n Noise nuisance was the main cause of ASB complaints last year, closely followed by animal nuisance n We have a range of surveillance techniques to monitor ASB, from noise recording equipment to CCTV cameras and professional witnesses. In more serious cases, this type of evidence can be invaluable.

Your GROUP

Kings Hill in Darlaston is set in attractive gardens

Would you like to live in your own home, but with the comfort of knowing that help is just a phone call away if you need it?

Kings Hill in Parklands Road, Darlaston, is a sheltered housing scheme made up of selfcontained apartments set in attractive gardens.

It has a scheme manager who works Monday to Friday and there’s an emergency service that can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

To find out more about living at Kings Hill, call Mary Nicholls, Scheme Manager, on 0121 526 2835 or 07824 486197.

Changes to green waste collections in Birmingham As you may be aware, Birmingham City Council is no longer providing a free green recycling collection service.

The annual fee for the service is £35. If you choose not to buy the service, you can dispose of your green waste at a local recycling centre or compost it yourself.

For more information, visit birmingham.gov.uk/ greenrecycling

Our HOUSE

Spring, 2014

13

Take a step up with

staircasing Shadow Housing Minister Are you a shared owner and considering buying further equity shares in your home, also known as staircasing?

Here’s what you need to do.

visits Bushbury eco homes

1 Firstly, you’ll need to call your

housing officer on 0300 111 7000 to find out the fee for an independent valuation of your home.

2 You’ll then need to write to the

officer to instruct an independent valuation and enclose a cheque for the valuation fee. An appointment will be made to carry out a valuation of your home.

3 We’ll then write to you with details,

based on the valuation, of the price to pay for further equity shares - usually in 25 per cent portions and the date by which this must be completed for the valuation to remain valid.

4 If you’re happy to proceed with a

purchase, you’ll need to write to us specifying the percentage share you want to buy. You’ll also need to provide the name, address and telephone number of your solicitor.

For more information about staircasing, contact your housing officer on 0300 111 7000 or email customerfirst@accordgroup.org.uk

Five facts about L-R Deputy Leader of Wolverhampton Council, Councillor Peter Bilson, Chief Executive of the Accord Group, Chris Handy, Shadow Housing Minister, Emma Reynolds MP, and Lisa Cook

Shadow Housing Minister, Emma Reynolds MP, has visited an eco-home development in Wolverhampton.

The 22 timber homes have been designed, manufactured and built by the Accord Group – a first for a UK housing association.

1 Let’s Swap is a mutual exchange

website that was launched in 2013.

2 There are currently 28 West

Midlands-based councils and housing associations using Let’s Swap. It also has links to other areas in the UK.

3 There are currently 4,000 tenants

registered on Let’s Swap, 319 of these are Accord Group customers.

4 So far there have been 58 mutual exchanges via Let’s Swap.

5 It’s free to register with Let’s Swap.

Contact Emma Stone, Mutual Exchange Facilitator, on 01922 705 762 or email estone@accordgroup.org.uk

Lisa Cook (pictured right) was amongst the first residents to move into the homes, which were manufactured at Accord’s timber home factory in Walsall.

Eco works move forward with new technology You may have read in the last edition of Our House that we are choosing homes to identify the best ways of making them energy efficient.

Since then, we have chosen 12 homes where the gas, electric and humidity will be monitored. Six of the 12 homes will also become ‘demonstrators’, where new technologies will be installed so that we can find out what customers think of them and whether they will benefit you.

For more information on the project, visit accordgroup.org.uk/the_retrofit_project

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Our HOUSE

Spring, 2014

Community members clock up a thousand hours of kind acts

A Walsall time bank which allows people to swap skills with their neighbours for free is celebrating after members exchanged a thousand hours of kind acts.

The Time for Real time bank, run by Caldmoreaccord, allows people to exchange a host of skills free of charge. Based at the Village Hub in Caldmore Green, the time bank has 74 members who in total have exchanged 1,000 hours, which is the equivalent of 142 working days.

For more information on Time for Real, call 01922 630364 or email enquiries@timeforreal.org.uk

Co-op goes green with solar panels Victoria Housing Co-operative has installed solar panels to some of its 132 homes to help families save money on their energy bills.

The two-hour sessions, which will run until 14 May at the Village Hub in Caldmore Green from 10am12pm, are being offered to out-of-work residents of Caldmoreaccord and people living in the Caldmore area.

People who are interested in attending a workshop can book by calling Samantha Cook or Jill Sargeant on 01922 705 280. Spaces are limited to eight people per session and are booked on a first come, first served basis.

Your GROUP

Developed by Redditch Cooperative Homes and Bellway Homes, it will feature 48 two and three-bedroom homes for affordable rent and three for shared ownership.

The whole development will be completed by Spring 2015 and all homes will be super energy efficient.

Pupils’ artwork is looking rosy

Victoria is the largest co-operative that bchs works with and has homes in Bordesley Green, Small Heath and the surrounding areas.

Job hunters in Walsall have the chance to get one step ahead in the search for work by signing-up to a free workshop to help them become more employable.

Work to develop a brand new housing scheme that will transform a former shopping precinct site in Redditch has begun following the demolition of a derelict pub.

A total of 51 new homes will be built on the site of the former Book and Candle Pub and the Church Hill District Centre, as part of major redevelopment plans.

Time bank volunteers celebrate exchanging a thousand hours of kind acts

Free workshops help job seekers get ahead

Pub demolished to make way for new homes

Research project gets underway The Accord Group is working with the ExtraCare Charitable Trust to undertake a research project to help people with dementia.

Funded by the European Union, it will see Accord gather together the experiences of people with the condition to aid the development of new technologies.

For five facts about dementia, turn to page five.

Pupils from a Birmingham school have been getting arty to celebrate the re-naming of four households within a Moseley and District older people’s scheme.

Students from Bournville Secondary School are painting large canvas’ to reflect the households at Carpenter Place, which are now called Cherry Tree, Palm, Willow and Rosewood.

Meanwhile, pupils from Clifton Infants and Junior School visited Carpenter Place in February to perform a free dance show for residents.

Our HOUSE

Spring, 2014

15

GET ONLINE AND GET AHEAD – great deals It can be time consuming and expensive to get online, so we’ve made it easy for you by shortlisting a number of companies that offer current and affordable ways of getting online.

If you are interested in purchasing any of the equipment listed here, please contact the supplier directly.

Business Direct

Tesco

Morgan

Black Barn Computers, Essex

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www.morgancomputers. co.uk

www.blackbarn computers.com

Tel: 0870 429 3020

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Tel: 01787 463 635

Brand new Storage Options Scroll 7D 7” Tablet PC, running Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean)

Brand new DGM T-811D 8” Tablet PC, running Android 4.1 OS

Refurbished Archos ARNOVA 10b G3 Tablet 4GB, running Android 4.0 OS

Refurbished Dell Optiplex GX620 laptop £99.00 + £20.00 delivery

£62.98 + £3.56 delivery

£69.00 + £3.00 delivery

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Payment by debit/ credit card

Payment online or by telephone

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April Wednesday 9 (and Wednesday, 16 July) Free theatre workshops run by Breakout Performing Arts: School of Music, Dance and Drama. University of Wolverhampton, Walsall Campus - Performance Hub, WS1 3BD. From 4.30pm. For details, call Rachel on 07905 831508 or email info@breakoutschool.co.uk Tuesday 15 (every Tuesday) Knit and natter session, Central Library, High Street, West Bromwich.

2pm-3pm. Free Wednesday 23 St. George’s Day, Queen Square, Wolverhampton. Free Thursday 24 Fundraising quiz for resident and family member, Bennett House, Telford. Entry £1 per person. For details, call 01952 582588 Sunday 27 Acorns Children’s Hospice Fun Dog Walk, Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield.

9.30am-11.30am. Entry is £5 per dog. For details, visit acorns.org.uk/ dogwalk

Refurbished Dell – Intel Core 2 Duo PC £169.00 + £20.00 delivery Payment online or by telephone

Monday 28 Coffee morning with the MS Society, Ribbon Court Extra Care Scheme, Coventry. For details, call 02476 662 360

Sunday 18 Farmers Market, Webbs, Wychbold, Garden Centre, Worcester Road, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire.

10am-12pm. Free entry.

Monday 28 (term time only) Book Time for the Under 5s, Kings Heath Library, High Street, Kings Heath, Birmingham. 2.15pm2.45pm. Free

Monday 19 (every Monday) Forest Over 60’s Club, Forest Community Centre, Hawbush Road, Walsall. From 1.30pm.

May Wednesday 7 (every Wednesday) Family History Buddy- book a free one hour session with a family history buddy to get you started or get new ideas. Walsall Local History Centre, Essex Street, Walsall.

9.30pm-1pm and 1.45pm-5pm. To book, call 01922 721305 or email localhistorycentre@walsall.gov.uk Monday 12 to Friday 16 The Accord Group’s Big Spring Spruce Up. For details, see the front page of this newsletter.

Monday 12 to Friday 16 Mental Health Awareness Week, Ribbon Court, Coventry. For details, call 0121 358 9051

Wednesday 28 Children’s Spring Craft Activity (ages 5-11), Kingswinford Library, Market Street, Kingwinford. 10am-11am.

Free. For more details, call 01384 812740

June

Monday 9 – Sunday 15 June National Men’s Health Week, Ribbon Court, Coventry. For details call, 02476 662 360 Monday 9 ‘Talkabout’ with author Anne Bennett, 77 Church Road, Northfield, Birmingham. 12pm. For more details, call 0121 464 1007.

Thursday 12 (every Thursday) Tai Chi, Walkers Heath Park (meet at the courts), Walkers Heath Road, Kings Norton, Birmingham.

12pm-1pm.

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Our HOUSE

Spring, 2014

Competitions Quiz Simply answer the following 10 questions correctly to be in with the chance of winning £20 Love2Shop vouchers, which can be redeemed at over 20,000 stores.

Winner of the prize draw reader survey was Mr C Sanders from Walsall.

1: In which country would you find the Great Pyramid of Giza?

2: Cashews, pecans and pistachios are types of what?

3: Which film scooped ‘Best Picture’ at the 2014 Bafta awards?

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 Friday, 30 May, 2014.

4: Which sport did Canadian sports coach James Naismith invent?

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 last issue’s competition was Miss D Jones from Walsall.

7: What year saw the Great Fire of London?

5: How many years did Queen Victoria reign as monarch?

6: In which city is the BBC television drama Peaky Blinders set?

8: In bingo, ‘two little ducks’ refers to which number?

9: Name the fashion designer who designed the 2014 Brit Award statue?

10: You’ll find the next answer in this newsletter… when will the Accord Group’s Big Spring Spruce Up take place?

"

Wordsearch Simply find the word that is NOT in the wordsearch to be in with the chance of winning £20 Love2Shop vouchers, 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 Friday, 30 May, 2014.

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.

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TIME TRAVEL CYBERMAN POLICE BOX GALLIFREY SILENCE

Accord Group, 178 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, B70 6QG. Tel: 0300 111 7000 Email: customerfirst@accordgroup.org.uk 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.

Please note that any products, events or services not provided by the Accord Group are used at customers’ own discretion and risk.

The winner of last issue’s wordsearch was Mrs C Jevons from Walsall.