Prepare your home for winterAre you ready for a change in the weather?

the magazine for council tenants anD leaseholDers

H Nome ewsautumn-Winter 2014/2015

Tenants' Survey results are in - what changes are being made? P12-13

Emily morrEll-CroSSA tribute to a local housing champion and former mayor...P9

ECo-friEndly homESNew high quality eco-friendly housing built... P4

WArminG WinTEr SoUPTasty ways to reduce food waste by using up leftovers... P27

Start saving energy and money today...P18Autumn W

ord Search

Win £20 Voucher

P26

audio and onlineH Nome ewsWe can provide Home News as an audio version on CD. Telephone: 01202 458314 for information. You can also read or listen to the magazine online at: www.bournemouth.gov.uk/HomeNewsHome News is delivered to all Bournemouth council tenants and leaseholders. 6,150 copies are printed.Published by: Housing Landlord ServicesNext edition: The next issue of Home News will be sent to you in spring 2015

Do you have a story, news or feedback for Home News? If so, you can contact the Resident Involvement team by email: resident.involvement@bournemouth.gov.uk or telephone: 01202 458314.

When somebody with a council home rents it out without permission or obtains a home through providing false information they are guilty of fraud.

If you suspect someone of committing housing fraud call us in confidence on: 08000 281870 or email:housinglandlord@bournemouth.gov.uk

home news | 3

At the time of going to press with this edition of Home News we heard the very sad news that former councillor, Emily Morrell-Cross, had passed away following a long illness.

Many of us - residents, staff and councillors alike - will have very fond memories of Emily (or Em). Emily wouldn’t respond to formalities like councillor, alderman and formal titles that she was entitled to use; hence everyone knew her by her first name.

Emily was a Bournemouth councillor for 20 years and always had a role and a lot of influence with housing, especially in her capacity as Chair of the Housing Committee. Emily was way ahead of things like ‘Localism’ and always put local people at the heart of decision making. This terrific legacy continues today.

Bournemouth’s council housing is one of the best in the country and our new build programme is enhancing this even further. We are not in this fortunate position by good luck. There has been very sound and sensible management of our housing issues by councillors of all parties for a long time in Bournemouth. It certainly makes my job much easier.

We’ve a special tribute page for Emily inside. On behalf of all of us I have passed on our condolences to Emily’s husband Les. When I think of Emily I always remember the laughs and her wonderful sense of humour. She was a very special person indeed.

Gary JoseyDirector for Housing, Parks and Bereavement Services

In your Home News this issue

Welcome

Neighbourhood news

Tribute to Emily Morrell-Cross

9

4-5

Housing news

6-7

10

House hunters- your guide tomoving

15

Everyone needs good neighbours

Tell uswhat youthink ofHome News

31

Autumn gardening

28

Out and about

29

Home improvements

24

16-17

Spotlight on Townsend

Prepare your home for winterAre you ready for a change in the weather?

THE MAGAZINE FOR COUNCIL TENANTS AND LEASEHOLDERS

H Nome ewsAUTUMN-WINTER 2014/2015

Tenants' Survey results are in - what changes are being made? P12-13

EMILY MORRELL-CROSSA tribute to a local housing champion and former mayor...P9

ECO-FRIENDLY HOMESNew high quality eco-friendly housing built... P4

WARMING WINTER SOUPTasty ways to reduce food waste by using up leftovers... P27

Start saving energy and money today...P18Autumn W

ord Search

Win £20 Voucher

P26

4 | housing news

We recently celebrated the completion of our most eco-friendly homes to date.

Tenants help set the budgetAT the time of Home News going to press, the annual Bournemouth Standard meeting was set to be held at the Kinson Community Centre on 1 October. At the meeting, tenants helped to prioritise next year’s budget for improvements and renovations in council housing in 2015/16.

A report on tenants’ priorities and the final spending decisions made will be included in your next edition of Home News.

THE two four-bedroom houses at Markham Avenue in Kinson, have been built to such a high standard that they are virtually carbon-neutral. The homes use a variety of green systems to make them as energy efficient as possible. These include solar panels, which will feed energy back to the national grid and grey water harvesting. Each house also recycles energy produced within the

building and has triple glazing throughout. The green theme continues outside as both properties have a large rear garden. Alison, one of the Markham Avenue tenants, had been on the waiting list for a property for 13 years. She said: “We were previously in a flat so I particularly like having a back door that opens directly onto a secure garden where I can see my youngest child play. I’m getting used to the eco gadgets. They have made us all so much more aware of the energy and

A WArm WElComE To oUr moST ECo-friEndly homES yET

water we are using. We’re now really good at turning off lights, the children no longer run the taps whilst brushing their teeth and I think about the best time of day to put the washing machine on.”Councillor Robert Lawton, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “These homes have been built by the Council’s own in-house team to the highest quality to ensure they are as

energy efficient as possible, which in the end means lower energy bills and big savings for the tenants. They are a great example of the Council working closely with specialist local suppliers to produce a top quality product on time and on-budget while still meeting the highest environ-mental standards possible.”The eco-homes replaced a pair of 1940s pre-fabricated houses. They cost around £400,000 for all demolition, rebuilding and design costs.

These homes have been built by the Council’s own in-house team to the highest quality to ensure they are as energy efficient as possible, which in the end means lower energy bills and big savings for the tenants.

”

”

New family homes in Kinson

Cllr Robert Lawton hands keys to tenant Alison.

We recently celebrated the completion of our most eco-friendly homes to date.

YOuR feedback is important for maintaining good customer care and helps us improve our services to you. Of course, it’s always particularly nice and appreciated by staff to hear when things have gone well and we have made a customer happy. Here is a recent example, which is from a letter published in the Daily Echo:

Thank you for your feedback

I would like to thank Bournemouth Council Home Repair Department for all their help over the last six months while my sister in law was in hospital. I asked them to do various things and not once did they refuse and were most helpful. Thank you all so much. D&M Gardner, Poole

”

”If you have some feedback about your housing services that you would like to pass on to us, email: housinglandlord@bournemouth.gov.uk or telephone: 08000 281870 (option 2) or 01202 451915.

A ‘topping out’ ceremony has marked an important step to creating fifty new homes for families on the waiting list in Bournemouth.

The houses currently under construction on former playing fields next to Duck Lane, West Howe, are a mix of two, three and four bedroom good quality, energy efficient and sustainable family homes for rent. The housing scheme also includes a new community centre, two acres of landscaped areas, cycle routes andskate board park.

ToPPinG oUT CErEmony iS A lAndmArk for ToWn’S CoUnCil hoUSinG

Who will be eligible for these properties? Properties at Duck Lane will be allocated in the usual way through the Housing Register although a ‘Local Lettings Plan’ (LLP) will be in place. An LLP sets out how the new properties will be allocated to ensure that the housing has a good balance of people in terms of age and family structure. We will also be targeting a mix of applicants for example people local to the area, people in employment, education and training etc.

did yoU knoW?‘Topping out’ is an important milestone in the construction of a new building. A ceremony traditionally takes place to celebrate the building reaching its highest point of construction.

did yoU knoW?You could get involved in the new community centre. If you’re interested in helping to manage the centre contact Amanda Nicholls, Assistant Community Liaison Officer, on: 01202 451165 or email: amanda.nicholls@bournemouth.gov.uk

Councillor Robert Lawton, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “This marks an important stage for the Council which has earmarked the provision of council housing as a top priority. The Duck Lane scheme represents the largest house building development by the Council since the 1980s and will provide much needed

family accommodation for those residents currently on the housing register.” Work on the scheme has also boosted the local economy, providing jobs and apprenticeships. The construction is expected to be finished in March 2015.

housing news | 5

Councillors, staff and workers at the ceremony

This letter recently appeared in the Daily Echo

it’s all going on in West howe

Workshops and rehearsals are underway for the first ever West Howe pantomime. Make sure you save the show date, which has been confirmed as the 22 November. This event takes place at the Henry Brown youth centre in the middle of an exciting three days for West Howe residents. On 21-23 November the ‘Imagine West Howe’s Future Festival’ will be taking place, also at the youth centre, showcasing the busy work local ambassadors have been doing as part of a Design Council.These enthusiastic West Howe residents have volunteered to help develop ideas to improve parks, streets, buildings and homes in the area. The festival will allow you to see all the ideas and give you the opportunity to let us know how you want West Howe to look in the future. There’s still a chance for you to be part of the Design Council by coming along to ‘walkabouts’ around the neighbourhood, which will be continuing until the end of October.For more information pop into the Inspiring Change Shop or contact Martha Searle on: martha.searle@bournemouth.gov.uk or telephone: 07901 701908.

With Christmas and New Year on the horizon, why don’t you head to a Give or Take Day? They are like jumble sales, but without the money. You can bring along unwanted, but usable items, other residents then have the chance to browse and take away items they do want.

Following the success of last year’s Kinson Village Christmas, the Kinson Business Forum and friends are growing a bigger event this year on Saturday 29 November. Last year’s event really captured the festive atmosphere with carols around the tree, music and entertainment. Many people told us afterwards that

this was the event Kinson Green was made for! If you are interested in getting involved with this year’s event, by having a stall or putting forward your ideas, then please contact Martha on 07901 701908 or email: martha.searle@bournemouth.gov.uk

6 | neighbourhood news

Christmas comes to kinson

You don’t have to give anything to take something new away. Come along on the following dates and browse for kitchen gadgets, books, DVDs, clothes, children’s toys, general bric-a-brac and much more:

• 25 October at Henry Brown Youth Centre, Cunningham Crescent from 2-4pm

• 1 November at Roumelia Lane, Boscombe, from 10am - 12pm

• 8 November at Beaufort Community Centre from 1.30-3pm

• 29 November at Henry Brown Youth Centre, Cunningham Crescent from 2-4pm.

• 6 December at Roumelia Lane, Boscombe from 10am-12pm.

For further information about Give or Take Days in your area, please contact the Community Regeneration team or the Recycling team through the Council’s Customer Service Centre on 01202 451199. Cunningham Crescent

Volunteers with Bournemouth Chamber members and last year's Mayor at the 2013 event.

Pho

to: L

ouis

e Jo

lley

your local community centres

In and around the town there are a number of community centres run by dedicated volunteers providing a whole host of activities for you to get involved in. They are open seven days a week and offer painting, exercise classes, needle craft groups, music and dance, mother and toddler groups, coffee mornings, educational classes and more.

You can find out about activities online: www.bournemouthcommunity centres.co.uk or visit or call your local centre:

BEAufORT Beaufort Road, 01202 417143

ENSBuRY PARkEnsbury Avenue, 01202 536255

kINSON Milhams Road, 01202 572826

MOORDOWN Coronation Avenue, 01202 536268

MuSClIff Shillingstone Drive, 07591 602685

PHOEBE CENTRE (Sea Cadets building, Boscombe), 65 Gloucester Road – 01202 399199

STROuDEN PARk 31 Vanguard Road, 01202 980161

TOWNSEND Jewell Road, 01202 301556.

meet the Townsend Safer neighbourhood teamDid you know that Safer Neighbourhood surgeries are regularly held at Townsend Community Centre, giving you the opportunity to talk to a Safer Neighbourhood Panel member on a one-to-one basis? You can meet the team and raise local Townsend issues at the following Safer Neighbourhood events.

18 October Townsend Community Centre 2.30pm22 November Townsend Community Centre 10.30am 15 December Holdenhurst Village Hall 12.30pm 22 January Townsend Community Centre 7.30pm 14 February Townsend Community Centre 10.30am 12 March Townsend Community Centre 10am In addition a public meeting will take place on 20 November at Jewell Academy from 2pm.For more information, you can email the team at: townsend.snt@dorset.pnn.police.uk or telephone the Bournemouth Police (non-emergency) number: 101.

In and around the town there are a number of community centres run by dedicated volunteers providing a whole host of activities for you to get involved in.

”

”

neighbourhood news | 7

Lee Tharme Gareth Gosling

Anna Lillywhite Philip Robbins

Strouden Park

Kinson

housing resource Centre

SO if you’re looking for a new home, want to pay your rent easily or have a council matter to deal with, then look no further than the Housing Resource Centre (HRC). The next time you’re visiting the Kinson Hub for information or help, you may not need to wait to be seen by a member of staff. You may find what you are looking for in the HRC.

Introducing your

Did you know that there’s a place, just for council tenants and leaseholders, where you can go to make free of charge phone calls, surf useful websites and research information?

By Julie DavisResident Involvement Assistant

In the HRC you can use the phones free of charge to:• call any council department• speak to your housing officer• pay your rent using the automated service• book a gas service• talk to someone about your council tax payments • report issues such as fly tipping. Or why not use the computers and save yourself a call? There’s no need to book, just go in and help yourself. These computers are programmed to allow access to certain websites only so they are not used for very long periods of time. Lots of useful sites are available including the Council’s

website, Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS), the Leasehold Advisory Service and many more. Also look out for leaflets and forms including:• housing benefit • minor repairs advice such as sink unblocking • choice based lettings freesheet, which advertises available social housing properties • ‘HomeSwapper’ mutual exchange information • Debt advice leaflets and much more. On occasion you may find a survey in there, asking for your opinion. There are also details of events, training and meetings which you may like to attend, so you can have a say about the service you receive as a tenant or leaseholder.

OPENING TIMESYou can visit the HRC at the Kinson Hub as follows:

Monday 9am - 7pm Tuesday 9am - 7pmWednesday 9am - 5pmThursday 9am - 7pmFriday 9am - 7pmSaturday 10am - 4pm

If you’re looking for a new home, want to pay your rent easily or have a council matter to deal with, then look no further than the Housing Resource Centre.

”

”

8 | home news

Residents make use of the centre

did yoU knoW?Emily was a champion for resident involvement and her legacy lives on in many of Bournemouth’s housing schemes and projects. The 2004 edition of Home News (above) pictures Emily at Bradpole Road, Strouden Park. This site now has a brand new community centre, nine family houses and eight bungalows. The resource centre which she originally opened during her Mayoral year is now located in a new purpose built facility at the Kinson Hub (see page left).

DuRING her 20 years on the Council, she served on many important committees including Housing, Amenities, Social Services and Policy & Resources. Most notably for tenants, she took a passionate interest in housing matters and was Chairman of the Housing Committee for some 15 years. In honour of Emily’s dedication to housing, our Emergency Housing unit in Poole Lane, West Howe was named Morrell House when it opened in August 2004. This temporary accommodation is used for families whilst their housing applications are being processed. Gary Josey, Director of Housing, Parks and Bereavement Services, pays tribute to Emily on behalf of all tenants,

Home News sadly reports that former Mayor, Emily Morrell-Cross recently passed away after a long illness. Emily was aged 71 and was first elected as a councillor in May 1987. She represented the Moordown and Winton East Wards until May 2007.

staff and councillors in the introduction of this edition of Home News (see page 3). Gary also added: “Emily was passionate about housing issues and improving the lives of local people. Through her work on the Housing Committee she helped to shape and influence key Bournemouth projects, which continue to make a real difference to the lives of tenants to this day.” Emily served as Bournemouth’s Mayor in 2004-2005. In recognition of her long and outstanding service, the Council made her an Honorary Alderman in 2007. Born in Ashton-under-Lyne, Emily moved to Bournemouth in 1970 when she worked in the Casualty Department at the former Boscombe Hospital and

later ran a residential home for people with mental health issues. She is survived by her husband Les, children and grandchildren.

TribUTES flood in for loCAl hoUSinG ChAmPion And formEr mAyor

home news | 9

Emily was passionate about housing issues and improving the lives of local people.

””

hoUSE hUnTErSYour essential guide to moving home

By Neil ArmsteadSenior Lettings Officer

IF you’ve ever wondered what’s involved in applying to move home, read on for our handy guide to the process.

WHERE DO I START?If you want to move home you need to join the Housing Register on: www.dorsethomechoice.org Applications are assessed and, if successful, you will be placed into one of three bands according to how high your housing need is – either bronze, silver or gold. If you want to downsize you will be placed in the gold band.

HOW DO I fIND A PROPERTY?Vacancies are advertised on a weekly basis and this includes housing association properties. The weekly property list can be viewed on the Dorset Home Choice website, in the Housing Resource Centre or in local libraries. HOW DO I APPlY fOR A PROPERTY?You can express an interest in a property by placing a ‘bid’. You can do this once you have set up an account for the Dorset Home Choice website. Bids can also be placed by telephone or text message. HOW DO WE DECIDE WHO GETS A PROPERTY?Bids for properties are sorted into band order and then into date order. This means properties go to the bidder who has the highest need and has been waiting the longest.

HOW DO I APPlY OR fIND OuT MORE? If you want to move home you must be on the Housing Register. Apply online and find out more at: www.dorsethomechoice.org or telephone us on 01202 451467 to request a form.

If you want to move home it’s often quicker to find another tenant who wants to swap homes with you. This is called a ‘mutual exchange’.

Following recent welfare reform changes, mutual exchanges have become popular. This helps match people who are looking to move to a smaller property with those wanting something bigger.

Earlier in the year, 334 council and housing association tenants attended a mutual exchange event. Afterwards we saw a noticeable increase in exchanges, meaning more tenants have now found the right size accommodation.

Another event is being planned for February 2015. Look out for details nearer the time in the Housing Resource Centre and on our website: www.bournemouth.gov.uk/housing

house Swap

10 | moving

By Sophie RickettsLettings Officer

Exchanges increased after our event

THESE tenancies normally last for 12 months and if a tenant does not keep to the terms of their tenancy we can evict them or extend the length of time that they will be an introductory tenant. Last year 93 properties were allocated under this arrangement.

We carry out reviews on a regular basis to ensure that tenants are keeping to the terms of their tenancies, for example by paying their rent on time and not causing anti-social behaviour.

Fortunately we have not yet had to evict any introductory tenants. However, as a result of our reviews we have extended the introductory period to 18 months for 21 of our tenants. This will allow us more time to work with them to deal with the tenancy breaches.

At the end of 12 months or, in some cases, 18 months the introductory tenancy will automatically convert to a secure tenancy provided we have not already started legal action to evict the tenant.

The type of secure tenancy that can be offered has also changed. In independent senior living accommodation the tenant will get a lifetime secure tenancy. In general needs accommodation tenants will be given a type of secure tenancy known as a ‘flexible fixed term tenancy’.

These fixed term tenancies will usually last for five years and towards the end of the tenancy we will carry out a review to decide whether or not to grant a new tenancy or to repossess the property.

In 2013 we started using introductory tenancies for all new tenants moving into our properties. These changes help us to better manage Bournemouth’s housing and helps us to take swift action to end tenancies when tenancy conditions are broken.

21tenants have introductory tenancies extended

By seamus DoranTenancy Services Manager

We carry out reviews on a regular basis to ensure that tenants are keeping to the terms of their tenancies, for example by paying their rent on time and not causing anti-social behaviour.

”

Tenancies | 11

When making our decision we will take into account:

• the current household size• the tenant’s financial circumstances• the tenant’s behaviour• the tenant’s contribution to their community.

If you have any questions about these types of tenancies call the Housing Management team on 08000 281870 (option 2).

”

WE wanted to know what you think of our housing service and how we can make it even better. This major survey of over 1,000 tenants takes place every three years and is a good way for us to evaluate what we are doing and where the service could improve. We have been busy making some important changes as a result of your feedback so thank you to everyone who took part.

This year we carried out the Tenants' Survey asking for your views on the services provided by the Housing Team.

Changing for the betterBy Tracy PriestleyCo-Regulation & Performance Officer

We are really pleased that in the majority of areas, we have maintained the high levels of tenant satisfaction achieved in our last survey in 2011.

What are we doing well?

of residents are satisfied overall with the services provided by the Council's Housing Landlord Services.

of tenants are satisfied with the way our Repairs Centre staff deal with your queries. This is an increase of 9% since the survey was last carried out in 2011. We have been working hard training staff in that time to improve skills and we are glad to see that it has resulted in providing a better service for you.

see your rent as providing value for money.

are satisfied with the speed with which repairs to their home are completed.

90%

95%

92%

90%

12 | Tenants' Survey

”

We are really pleased that in the majority of areas, we have maintained the high levels of tenant satisfaction.”

One way we think we can provide a better service for you is by making it easier for you to raise issues with us. Providing more opportunities for you to talk with housing officers is something we are keen to do. This will also be a good way of making sure that you are kept informed about the work we are doing, any service changes there might be or anything else important that you need to know.

Often our main contact with you is through the repairs and maintenance work we carry out in your homes, so this is an area we want to target for improvement. We are now conducting follow up phone calls on a sample of jobs within a few days of work being completed, to make sure the work has

What can we do even better?

been completed to your satisfaction and to give you a chance to raise any issues.

When we are working in your home we aim to keep you fully informed throughout the process, to make sure you are happy and understand what is happening. We want to make sure we deliver the very best housing service we can.

In the survey, some of you living in flats felt that we could do better in attending to the upkeep of communal areas both inside and outside. We will be asking residents on our Neighbourhoods and Communities Standard Group to look at this in more detail and make recommendations.

Common issues CAR PARkING We understand that this can be a problem at times with many families these days having more than one car. If you have particular problems where you live, you should get in touch with your housing officer as they may be able to look at ways to manage this.

find out more...The full Tenants’ Survey 2014 report is available to view on our website at: www.bournemouth.gov.uk/CouncilHousingReports

Tenants' Survey | 13

We are always striving to improve our performance so that we can deliver an efficient and cost effective housing service that meets all your needs.

Making sure you are able to live in an environment you are happy with is our top priority so we are working on how we can tackle these three common issues raised in the survey.

lITTER We all want to live in a neighbourhood that looks pleasant. Through community litter picks, clean up days and encouraging people to dispose of their litter responsibly, we think we can help tackle the problem.

NOISE Being able to relax and feel happy in your home is something we all need, so when this is disturbed it can cause a lot of anger. We understand this and on page 15 we touch on mediation which is a service we use to help resolve noise and other neighbour complaints.

IN Bournemouth we take housing fraud very seriously and actively work to tackle this problem. With 4,000 people on our housing register and in need of a home, it’s unfair that some are missing out on the chance of being housed because of the unlawful activity of others.

It’s been estimated that across the country some 100,000 homes belonging to councils or housing associations are being used fraudulently. Housing fraud is not only a breach of your tenancy agreement but it’s also now a criminal offence.

don’t risk losing your home!

When is it fraud? Tenancy fraud happens when someone has obtained a council property through deception or when the property is occupied unlawfully. For example:

• a tenant leaves a property and a family member stays behind• a person tries to claim the right to take over a tenancy when the tenant dies• a person moves into an empty council property without our permission

By Seamus DoranTenancy Services Manager It’s unfair that some

are missing out on the chance of being housed because of the unlawful activity of others.

”

”

14 | home news

did yoU knoW?If you commit tenancy fraud you could lose your home and you may receive fines of up to £5,000 or £50,000 depending on the severity of the case. In serious cases the tenant can also face a jail sentence of two years.

4,000 people are on the Bournemouth Housing Register and need a home.

• a tenant no longer lives in a property as their main home• a tenant has made a false statement to obtain a council property• wrongly claiming the right to buy.

Take actionIf you suspect someone of housing fraud telephone: 08000 281870 (option 2) or 01202 451915 or email: housinglandlord@bournemouth.gov.uk

A Bournemouth tenant has been evicted from their property after persistent anti-social activity, despite numerous chances to change their behaviour. The person concerned had harassed neighbours with banging, screaming and shouting in the property.

By Charlotte GriffithsAnti-Social Behaviour Officer

NEIGHBOuRS were asked to keep diary sheets of all the incidents that happened and it was clear from the information provided that legal action was needed. We took out an injunction though the County Court but the tenant ignored this and we were able to get an application granted to evict them.I spoke to a neighbour two months after the tenant was evicted who said:“Living next door to someone displaying that kind of behaviour is horrendous and it disrupts your day to day living. We were always on edge but thanks to the support and help from housing officers we can now enjoy our house and garden again without being shouted at constantly.”

What do you do if you’re experiencing anti-social behaviour?There may be the odd occasion when you or your neighbours make a little more noise than normal. On these rare occasions it is important to be patient and compromise with each other. When these times become persistent and the behaviours are more of a nuisance and are blighting your life, then steps can be taken to try and resolve the situation.

STEP THREE: If you are unable to resolve the problems yourself, we often recommend mediation in cases where there is a dispute. Mediation doesn’t take sides, but tries to find a middle ground that everyone can agree on and work from there. STEP fOuR: Talking to your neighbour or mediation doesn’t always resolve the situation. In some cases it’s necessary to take legal action to stop the problem. Our last step if the problems persist is to evict the tenant concerned.

Find out more, telephone: 01202 451915 or

08000 281870 (option 2), including out of hours.

living next door to someone displaying that kind of behaviour is horrendous and it disrupts your day to day living. We were always on edge but thanks to the support and help from housing officers we can now enjoy our house and garden again.

”

”

home news | 15

Everyone needs good neighbours

Dealing with anti-social behaviour

STEP ONE: Depending on the nature of the behaviour, we would always suggest talking politely to your neighbour about the problems first. STEP TWO: If it is not appropriate to speak to the person or people causing the anti-social behaviour then you can report it to us by phoning the Kinson Hub, writing to your housing officer or even through the Council website.

Get to know your neighbours

One example is the Birch Drive gardening project, which started with refurbishing five front gardens and took off from there. Since then, over grown avenue trees between Birch Drive and the Children’s Centre have been pruned, unsightly weeds removed and more interesting flowers and shrubs have been planted.By the central Birch Drive car parking area, fruit trees as well as raspberries and strawberries have been planted. This allows local people to have the pleasure of picking fruit right outside their doors, having watched it grow through the season. Residents have also spent time creating hanging baskets to add a further splash of seasonal colour.

SPoTliGhT on ToWnSEnd

imProvinG ThE loCAl EnvironmEnT

16 | Area focus

Did you know that the Tenants' Survey showed that the majority of Townsend tenants think there have been improvements to their area in the last three years? Home News shines the spotlight on some of the recent work and projects taking place in the community.

Other environmental improvements include regular clean up days, an area of wildflowers planted in the summer to encourage the likes of bees and butterflies, as well as lots of community activities.The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has awarded Townsend a level 4 (out of a possible 5) in the 'It's Your Neighbouhood' category of Britain in Bloom. Well done to everyone involved for all your time, effort and support.Roger Smithers, tenant and Chair of our Neighbourhood and Communities Standard Group, said: "I have lived in Townsend for over 30 years and love the area, especially the trees, greenery and the convenient location

By the central Birch Drive car parking area, fruit trees, raspberries and strawberries have been planted.

If you're interested in volunteering in the Green Flag award winning Townsend Community Garden (Jewell Road) contact Caroline Abbis, Community Development Officer, on: 01202 451165 or email: caroline.abbis@bournemouth.gov.uk

GET involvEd

Interesting flowers and shrubs planted

to both the countryside and town. In recent years in particular, residents have benefited from many home and environmental improvements often brought about by the community working together with the Council and other agencies"

Roger likes Townsend's greenery

introducing your housing officers

The Housing Officers for the Townsend area are Sarah Wood and Michelle Cox. You can talk to them about any housing queries or concerns you have by telephoning: 08000 281870 (option 2) or 01202 451915. Two drop in sessions are also held in Castlepoint Library on a Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am to 1pm. Just pop in the Library and ask for the Housing Officers during these times. Alternatively email: housinglandlord@bournemouth.gov.uk

Michelle Sarah

imProvinG yoUr homES

CommUniTy SPiriT

Have you heard of the Townsend Together Team (also known as the 3Ts for short)? This is a local action group made up of residents, volunteers and representatives from local agencies including Housing Officers. They work together to tackle local issues on topics ranging from anti-social behaviour, crime, the environment and more. The team also promote the area's community spirit too, most notably seen at the recent Street Party held in September.

find oUT morE...If you’re looking for local events and Townsend news visit: www.thetownsend.co.uk

SPoTliGhT on

loCAl WildlifE

"I'm one of the many tenants who try to follow all those excellent gardening tips in Home News. As a result we're noticing many new natural companions in our ever tidier gardens in Townsend. These include song birds, bumblebees, butterflies, hedgehogs, moths, nightingales, bats, owls and even foxes. "I'm probably not the only resident to notice the mud nests of house martens attached to the underside of balconies. And we're roused most mornings by the 'chatter' of a pair of magpies, as they work the gardens for tasty early morning morsels. Telephone wires are great morning and evening assembly points for our migratory birds before and after their massive flight paths to and from sunnier climes. "Insects are a great indicator of environmental health, aided by the volunteers who improve Townsend's public garden spaces. I've noticed a recent abundance of bees and butterflies. We've already been treated to the extra displays of the rainbow colours of courting dragon flies at Throop Mill. And let's not forget our own gardens where hedgehogs hoover-up all our troublesome slugs on our plants and beneath the leaf litter. "Townsend's nocturnal wildlife is very vocal. Nightingales bang out a healthy song under the glare of street lights and bats impress with their insect feeding aerobatics. Whilst the loudest nocturnal performers are screech owls claiming territory or vixen foxes calling for a fox mate overlaying the gentle rustling of trees in the overnight breeze".

Area focus | 17

Townsend has recently benefited from a programme of external cladding and window replacement to the larger flat blocks in the area. This is a big project which has been underway for some time and residents are really noticing a difference.

Surveyor Tom Richer shows the results of external cladding work.

By Michael WitherdenLocal Tenant

Hanging basket workshop

If you are having trouble paying your bills don’t ignore them. Get in touch with Karen on 01202 451915 or 07557 801390 for further information, advice and guidance.

Start saving energy and money today

Saving energy is good for your purse or wallet, as it means you are saving money. With the increasing price of fuel and the cost of electricity, this is the right time to think how to save energy in your home.

By karen BakerFinancial Inclusion Officer

Warm home discount SchemeHave you heard of the Warm Home Discount Scheme?

For the coming winter you may be eligible to receive a £140 discount on your electricity bill through the Warm Home Discount Scheme. This is a one-off discount on your bill that won’t affect your Cold Weather Payment or Winter Fuel Payment.

Each supplier will have their own criteria as to who is eligible with some customers automatically receiving the discount.

If you use a pre-pay or pay as you go electricity meter talk to your supplier, they will tell you how you’ll get the discount, if you’re eligible.

Check with your supplier to see if you meet their rules for this discount and find out more at: www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme

ToP EnErGy SAvinG TiPS

fUrThEr hElP And AdviCE

unplug all the appliances that you aren't using regularly, including those on standby and you could save bet-ween £45 - £85 a year.

Kettles use a lot of electricity so only put in the amount of water you need as over-filling each time wastes energy and money.

Turn off the lights when you leave a room to save energy.

Reaching for a jumper and turning your thermostat down by 1°C can save you up to £60 a year.

If your cooker has a small ring use a small pan. Don't heat a large pan on a small ring as you're more likely to end up heating for longer.

Keep your freezer at least three quarters full. The more that's in it, the less energy you will waste.

1 2

3 4

5 6

always

cover the

element!

18 | Prepare for Winter

IT’S easy to start with a quick tidy outside and packing away any garden furniture etc. This helps to avoid potential slip hazards or accidents in the event of any icy or windy weather.

Inside your home condensation and mould can become a problem. One of the causes is because in winter we tend to keep our windows closed to keep the heat in. You can help avoid condensation problems by reducing the amount of moisture in your home, improving ventilation and keeping your home well heated.

EnErGy EffiCiEnT boilErS on ThEir WAy

As the nights draw in and temperatures start to drop our thoughts will soon turn to winter. Making sure your home is prepared for any change in the weather is best done sooner rather than later.

Previously we replaced boilers according to their age and condition but we now replace them solely on their efficiency rating. This will ensure tenants will all have the top `A rated’ boilers by 2020.Michael Witherden from Townsend recently had his boiler replaced. He said: “We booked our annual gas servicing appointment and on inspection we were doubly happy when it was suggested that our boiler should be replaced with a more environmentally friendly one. Within

only four days it had been fitted. Our new boiler is so quiet and is always on time with the heating and yet it costs less to run. We tell neighbours that thanks to the Council we’re now always in hot water!”

STAy GAS SAfEAlways make sure you book a gas servicing appointment with us when your letter arrives. It’s a legal requirement to do these each year and ensures your boiler is well maintained. So don’t forget, once you receive your initial gas servicing letter call us on: 01202 458327 or free phone 08000 281870 to arrange an appointment.look AfTEr yoUr homE And

oThErSPlease look out for your more vulnerable neighbours over the winter months. And if you need to report any weather related issues or repairs call us on 08000 281870 or 01202 458326.

Always make sure you book a gas servicing appointment with us when your letter arrives

”

”

Prepare for Winter | 19

By Simon PercivalPrincipal Surveying Manager

winterPreparing your home for

it’s now even easier to afford your own home

Right to buy discounts have been increased for tenants wanting to buy their council home, following government changes. IF you live in a house, the amount you could get off the price has increased from 60 percent to 70 percent, which is the same as the discount available when buying a flat. The level of discount you might be entitled to will be limited to an overall maximum amount, which has just been increased from £75,000 to £77,000. This amount will be increased in April each year in line with inflation.

HOW MuCH DISCOuNT MIGHT I GET? Firstly you need to have been a public sector (including social housing) tenant for at least five years before being eligible for the right to buy. You will then be eligible for at least 35 percent discount off the price of your home.

You do not need to have been a tenant of Bournemouth Council for five years as tenancies with other social housing landlords such as other councils and housing associations count.

You will then get an extra one percent discount off the price of the property for each additional year you have been a tenant, up to the maximum of 70 percent.

HOW TO APPlY If you want to buy your home then you will need to complete an application form. You can get one from the Housing Resource Centre, by telephone on 08000 281870 (option 2) or by visiting: www.communities.gov.uk/yourrighttobuy

fuRTHER ADvICEIf you want any additional help or support you can also contact the Right to Buy Agent service, which provides free and impartial advice. Telephone: 0300 123 0913 (Call charges apply. up to 9p per minute from landlines and between 8p – 40p per minute for mobiles. Please check with your provider).

By Seamus DoranTenancy Services Manager If you live in a

council property you could now get up to 70 percent off the price.

”

”

ExAmPlE

Current house value £120,000

Years as a tenant 10 years

Eligible discount 40% (35% plus 1% for each year over 5 years)

Discount value £48,000

Price you pay £72,000

20 | right To buy

life as a leaseholder

Do you know the difference between a tenant and a leaseholder of the Council? A Council tenant rents their property from the Council under a tenancy agreement. However a leaseholder holds the lease to a former Council flat, originally purchased through the Government’s right to buy legislation, which gives the right to occupy the property for the lifetime of the lease. If you’re considering buying your flat then make sure you’re fully aware of any ongoing costs you need to pay. Some of these costs will be in addition to those which you are used to paying as tenants.

Your leasehold property shares common areas with others in the same building or estate and it is the Council’s responsibility to maintain them. Examples of common areas include the roof, foundations, fascias, soffits, guttering and downpipes, communal entrances, stairwells and corridors, car parks, footpaths and gardens.

The Council recovers the cost of improving, maintaining and managing these areas. For leaseholders it is through their service charges. Council tenants also contribute towards these costs but through their rent. All tenants’ rent is put into a single ‘pot’, from which the costs of management and maintenance of the council’s housing stock is offset.

Work the Council carries out to the communal aspects of your flat block will ensure that it is kept in good condition, which in turn helps to maintain the value of your property.

WhAT doES yoUr ShArE ToWArdS mAinTEnAnCE And imProvEmEnTS PAy for?

By vikki BrownLeasehold Management Officer

lEASEholdEr rESPonSibiliTiES inClUdE

lEASEholdEr riGhTS inClUdE

• paying ground rent, service charges and administration charges

• keeping to the terms of your lease

• informing us of any changes to your mortgage company

• informing us when you sell or let your property.

• seeking permission from us before undertaking any major works to your flat.

• receiving information from us on service charges and costs to the building containing your property

• living peacefully and quietly in your property without disturbance from us as long as all terms of the lease are being followed

• being consulted on any major works that are to take place at the building in which your property is contained.

if you’re considering buying your flat then make sure you’re fully aware of any ongoing costs you need to pay.

”

”

leaseholder news | 21

money saving tips

Festive

1. DECIDE WHAT YO u CAN A ffORD TO SPEND

Shops will target your spending impulses so put together an old fashioned shopping list and stick to it. 2. DON ’T fORGET YO uR E vERYDAY

BI llS Even though it’s Christmas you will still need to prioritise payments for your rent, utility bills and other existing debts which have to be paid.3. BEWARE O f CREDIT

Keep things simple. If you can afford to pay outright for goods, don’t be persuaded to take out credit as it will not be long before you have to pay the money back. 4. CREATE A PRESENT AGREEMENT

With family and friends agree a Secret

With presents to buy, extra food needed and your day-to-day bills to pay, Christmas-time finances can be hard to juggle. Here are a few tips and ideas to help.

Santa and a spending limit. Christmas wish lists can also avoid unwanted and unnecessary presents.

5. COMPARE PRICES Look closely at special offers to make sure they really are value for money. Keep an eye out for discount vouchers.

6. BORROWING fOR CHRISTMAS? Only borrow what you can afford to repay and be clear on the terms, including the interest charged (APR). Another consideration is talking to the local Credit u nion in your area to find

out about the options they offer.

7. PlAN YOuR fOOD lIST CAREfullY Take advantage of special offers or shop with friends to take advantage of the many bulk buy deals.

8. MA kE WHAT YOu CAN Home-made presents can have a real impact. If you do not feel creative make some tokens, for example to cook a favourite meal or spend an evening babysitting.

9. lOYAlTY SCHEMES These can be a great way to save money. Make full use of your loyalty points and take advantage of ‘double points’ and similar offers in the run-up to Christmas.

10. WHEN CHRISTMAS IS O vER Start planning and saving for next year. You could use the sales to buy presents, wrapping paper and cards.

22 | money matters

By karen BakerFinancial Inclusion Officer

Christmas shopping in Bournemouth Square

new job?New YearWill 2015 be the year of a new job for you? If you’re thinking of a New Year job search then try following the advice below. Good luck and happy job hunting.

CHECk YOuR PHONE MESSAGES Make sure you can collect messages remotely and make sure the voice message on your phone is professional.

GET OuT THERELook for job vacancies advertised in shop windows, the Daily Echo and online. Also register your details with recruitment companies.

find oUT morE...If you need information, advice and guidance about job hunting or money management, contact Karen on 01202 451915 or 07557 801390.

RECOGNISE YOuR kEY SkIllSIdentify the skills you have that employers want. For example being reliable, communicating well, excellent team member and prioritising workload.

fIRST IMPRESSIONS COuNTGet a marketing pitch for yourself. This introduction should include what you are good at, what you have done, where you have worked and what you want to do next.

IMPROvE YOuR INTERvIEW SkIllSInterviewers will form an impression of you within the first two minutes. Look online or borrow a book from your local library about job interviews to help improve your skills. BE ON TIME fOR THE INTERvIEWArrive five to ten minutes early. You may need to take some time before the interview day to find the venue so you know how long it will take to get there.

ATTEND lOCAl JOB fAIRSThese events provide an opportunity to see what jobs are available locally and you can meet and make useful contacts with potential employers.

money matters | 23

WRITE All YOuR BACk TO WORk PlANS DOWNThis starts the process and provides some structure. You will then be able to review and change your goals appropriately. GET YOuR Cv READYTo make sure the CV lands on the employer’s ‘yes’ pile, it needs to be spell checked, concise and reviewed by someone who can give you genuine feedback about the correct layout.

uSE A GROWN uP EMAIl ADDRESS use your first name and last name only. An address of ‘big muscles’ or similar will not get you an interview!

imProvinG yoUr homES

Did you know that our ongoing programme of improvement works ensures you live in a decent home which meets all the current legal housing standards?

By Simon PercivalPrincipal Surveying Manager

WE make improvements to both the inside and outside of properties (kitchens, bathrooms, windows, roof works). Environmental improvements take place too such as fencing, new bin stores and planting to name a few. Planned work between now and spring 2015 includes:• kitchen refurbishments Bear Cross area • Bathroom refurbishments High Howe area and Surrey Court senior living block• Roofing works Low pitched roofs in Wallisdown • Soffits and fascias St Clements Gardens and other identified properties• Window replacements High Howe and Charminster areas• Other external works Pilot Hight Road, South Kinson Drive, Rochester Road, Wicket Road, The Broadway, Rodwell Close, Russel Road, Berrans Avenue, Markham Avenue, Horsham Avenue, Truman Road.

Please note that you may have different work carried out to your neighbour, as some properties may only need some improvements and others may not need any at all.

Whilst the great British weather can be a wonderful thing, there are also times we can experience unexpected and severe weather.

In winter 2013/14 extraordinarily severe wind driven rain hit Bournemouth. As a result, around 80 council properties suffered damage to their internal decoration.

This happened to those walls facing south west, which are particularly affected by the prevailing weather. The storm was so severe that rain was blown through the entire wall thickness, making inside wall plaster and decoration damp.

Our teams sprung into action, investigating the best methods of treatment. We hired additional staff so we could deal with the extra work.

As well as damp and decorating work, we had to contend with the problem of cavity walls in some properties being full of saturated insulation. To resolve this we are re-insulting these homes with a special water resistant product.

Unplanned improvements

did yoU knoW?If your home is scheduled for any improvements you will be informed by letter, 30 days before any work starts.

24 | repairs and maintenance

External works underway

kEEPinG oUr CommUnAl ArEAS ClUTTEr frEE

It’s in everyone’s interest to keep our flat blocks in Bournemouth free of mess. No one wants to see leaflets, pushchairs and prams in the way of the doors and stairs.

By lisa BrooksLocal tenant

WE’RE not permitted to leave car seats, bikes and other large items in the way. They can be an inconvenience and risk to us all. Leaflets and catalogues left on the floor make life harder for tenants and visitors with a mobility disability. People like me, with a visual impairment, would not even see the items and could easily slip and fall over. In garden areas, chairs and tables are sometimes left along with barbeque equipment, paddling pools, and even dog muck and rubbish. Not only is it neighbourly to clean up but our tenancy agreements cover the rules of what is

and isn’t allowed.We can help each other. It doesn’t take much effort to make communal areas tidier and safer. Pick up the leaflets and phone directories. If they have been there for a while why not put them into your recycling bin? It’s also a good idea to bring your waste bins in after they have been emptied. They cause a nuisance when they are left on the pavement for people like me, and those with pushchairs.We can all do our bit to keep our communal areas clear. This will also help the Council’s cleaners who clean the communal areas.

Safety first

Did you know that we have a duty to make sure y