Axiom Residents

Influencing

Service Excellence

Winter 2013

‘for residents by residents’

Editorial Statement ARISE is published four times a year and contributions for the next edition are welcomed by the Editorial Team. If you would like a copy of ARISE in any other format please let us know. Email editorialteam@axiomha.org.uk or call 01733 347135. We look forward to hearing from you.

Welcome to your festive edition of ARISE

Win Love to Shop vouchers see page 18 We would like to wish

all of our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. What an amazing year! • Residents once again received

a HIGHLY COMMENDED at the TPAS Central Regional Awards for their 2011/12 Annual Tenants Report.

• The 10th Residents Conference was held in September which received the highest number of visitors and satisfaction rating ever.

• The Pavilions won a

SILVER award at the Elderly Accommodation Counsel National Housing Awards for Older People.

• The Disability User Group

helped Axiom win the Investors in Diversity Stage 2 Award.

• Axiom became a Sunday Times Top 100 Company.

• Over 180 people attended the Family Fun Day in August in Peterborough’s Central Park.

• Paul Newton was welcomed as the new Chair of Axiom Residents’ Forum at their AGM in July.

• Dozens of applications were

received throughout the year for community improvements.

• And most recently Nikki Ayliff (Head of Operations for Axiom Crossroads Care) won the Home Care Registered Manager Award at the Great East of England Care Awards in October.

So a great year, here’s to more great news in

2014. The ARISE Editorial Team

JUST FOR FUN we have hidden six

red baubles in this edition for you to

find.

This edition is available on AUDIO CD 01733 347135

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Axiom Residents’ Forum: promoting your interests and views Axiom is committed to resident involvement, so the more people that get involved, the bigger the difference we can make. ARF are also here to help you with any issues or problems you may have with the services Axiom provides. To contact us email sayercourt@btconnect.com or call Chris Wood, ARF Secretary 07718 780248 or Howard Bell, Community Improvement Grant Co-ordinator 07900 498626. We look forward to hearing from you.

Message from ARF Chair

Paul Newton ARF Chair

ARF VISIT BALA HOUSE, GRANTHAM L to R: Brian Harris, Stefan, Siana, Gary, Jan Eadie, Mervyn Cowdell, Chris Wood and Scott.

About Axiom Residents’ Forum (ARF) Axiom Residents’ Forum is there to help you with all sorts of issues! Formed in June 2007 the forum promotes the views and interests of Axiom residents, tenants and service users. ARF can act as an advocate and guide you through all sorts of issues you may have, however big or small! On page 3 there’s a reminder of your ARF members as well as a note of the ARF 2014 meeting dates.

Where does the time go? It doesn't seem five minutes since I was elected Chair of ARF in July and much like the rest of the ARF committee, since then I have been working hard in the interests of all Axiom residents. Since the last edition of ARISE, we have started our programme of local visits. A group of four ARF members visited Bala House in Grantham and found it to be a really enjoyable visit. Jan Eadie tells us more about the visit below. One of the biggest events of the year was the re-location of Axiom House. As you will all know, moving can be a very stressful experience. I would therefore like to congratulate all involved in the office move as it went so smoothly and with minimum disruption to residents.

I attended a TPAS Conference in Stansted along with Brian Harris and Tracey Burton. We all found it an enlightening and enjoyable experience. In September we held another very successful Residents’ Conference. I must congratulate Tracey Burton and the organising team for their hard work. A great day was had by all. Finally, I would like to say there was much sadness when we heard of the passing of Gilbert Knight. Gil was a very hard working member of ARF and he will be greatly missed. Before I say farewell for this edition, may I wish you all compliments of the season and I look forward to a very successful 2014.

Paul

Trick or Treat for ARF! By Janet Eadie “On 31 October, yes Halloween (trick or treat night), Chris Wood, Mervyn Cowdell, Brian Harris and I ventured up to the Bala House, Grantham (homeless hostel). The visit was part of ARF’s mission to visit residents who find it difficult to get to our regular meetings. There were no tricks involved, only treats for us. We met some lovely young people (Stefan, Siana, Gary and Scott) and heard their stories. We heard how they came to be living at the homeless hostel; they spoke of sleeping in doorways, sheds and cars. They find they have to rely on benefits and due to the imminent changes worry more than ever about their future..

ARF Executive Committee: Paul Newton Chair Moorside Court Brian Harris Vice/Treasurer Sayer Court Chris Wood Secretary Charlton Court Howard Bell Community Grant Sayer Court Co-ordinator Brian Webster* Beech Court Ely Charlie Gilmore Blashfield Close Stamford Jackie Rice The Spinney Eye Jan Eadie Ethelred Close Ramsey Mervyn Cowdell Neath Court Eye Leslie Bailey Wellington Way Market Deeping Stuart Dowell Spinning Court Ramsey

ARF Committee: Andy Low* Fair View Court Peterborough Barbara Peat Oak Tree Court Godmanchester Brian Gaul Kestrel Court South Bretton Dave Willerton Greenham South Bretton Jean Dowell Spinning Court Ramsey Piers Renfree Sayer Court Orton Goldhay Sue Jones Martin Court Werrington Yvonne Mayes Stamper Street South Bretton * co-opted If you would like to contact a member of ARF please call the ARF Secretary on 07718 780248.

2014 MEETING DATES All meetings are on a Friday and will be held at 11.00 am at Axiom House, Cottesmore Close, Peterborough PE3 9TP. 10 January 14 February 14 March 11 April 9 May 13 June 18 July (AGM) 8 August 12 September 10 October 14 November Please contact Tracey Burton for further information and/or help with transport.

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Although we could not give them financial advice, we did tell them where they could get help and explained what support ARF can give them too”.

Mervyn Cowdell said: “This was a most successful evening. I came away with a strong message; especially of how much they love living at Bala House. Axiom are so good at supported housing, in fact I think they are the best!” Chris Wood added: “I am so pleased that ARF have started a programme of local visits; it’s so important that all Axiom residents have access to ARF. Not everyone has the ability to travel, so we are more than happy to travel to see them!”

ARF WORKING TOGETHER IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

‘Tracey’s Travels’ Hello! Winter is my favourite time of year, a time of real change for the weather, which means colder days and the nights drawing in earlier. And of course, celebrations! As the weather gets colder, we need to make sure we are looking after those around us that are more vulnerable. Don’t forget to call on your elderly neighbours and check on their well-being. At the end of September, Axiom held it’s tenth Resident Conference. The day was a huge success, with residents from four counties attending. There’s more about the conference on page 14 and 15. The Scrutiny Panel held an Away Day in October, looking at the reviews they had undertaken and the work they wanted to do next. The group spent the morning undertaking training, to update their skills when scrutinising Axiom’s services.

Out and About! I’ve also been out visiting lots of residents. I attended resident meetings in Carl Hall Court sheltered scheme in Peterborough, where the activities planned for residents and the surrounding community are just fabulous! Sayer Court Residents Association (SCRA) celebrated their first year as a residents group in November and have been instrumental in changes made to the Sayer Court area of Orton Goldhay, Peterborough. Beech Court Social Group based in the sheltered scheme in Ely have recently reproduced their own

Tracey Burton Resident Involvement Manager

Tracey’s contact details: 01733 295509 tracey.burton@axiomha.org.uk

Axiom Housing Association, Axiom House, Cottesmore Close, Peterborough PE3 9TP

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newsletter, ‘The Beech Court Bugle’ where up-and-coming events are advertised as well as fundraising news. Congratulations to everyone involved in resident groups - an organised group has a stronger voice than one individual! If you are interested in starting up a resident group to represent your community, please contact Tracey Burton on 01733 347135 for more details. That’s it from me for now, other than to wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

The ‘Axiom Involved’ Facebook page features regular updates from the Age UK website, giving tips on how to stay

warm and healthy this winter and low-cost recipes.

Winner : Great British Care Regional Award

Congratulations to Nikki Ayliff who won a regional award at the Great East of England Care Awards held in Peterborough.

LtoR: Stuart Fort (Axiom), Sheila Fielding (ACC), Mary Bryce (ACC), Danielle Duckmanton, (ACC) Al Cowlishaw (ACC), Louise Platt (Axiom), Clare Hayward Slavadori (ACC), Nikki Ayliff (ACC) and David Fowler (Chair ACC).

LtoR residents: Michael Cattermole, Joan Broughton and Reg Parkman with Rebecca Kightly (Sheltered Housing Manager).

Residents from The Pavilions, Extra Care Scheme in Alma Road, Peterborough participated in a ‘play your cards right’ game and ended up winning a SILVER award. Rebecca Kightly, Sheltered Housing Manager, explains: “The play your cards right game was introduced by the Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) as a way of consulting with sheltered residents about the services they receive from their landlord. As a result, all schemes across the country that participate, are ranked against each other. The best scores for service and accommodation are then entered into an award where bronze, silver or gold can be won.” In September residents and staff attended an awards ceremony along with 200 others from sheltered housing across the country.

Out of 295 schemes that were nominated only a handful of awards were given out and the Pavilions was one of the 25 winners! Jennie George-Underhill (The Pavilions Scheme Manager) said: “We were all over the moon that our scheme had won silver in the 30-49 unit category. Residents were extremely proud to be able to represent their scheme and collect the award on behalf of us all”. Jean Broughton (resident at The Pavilions) added: “I was privileged to have been chosen to attend the awards and was really happy to have met Edwina Currie who was guest speaker. I even spent time having a chat with her, it was a wonderful day!”

The Pavilions win silver at the Elderly Accommodation Counsel Awards for being second best in the country

in its category!

The Pavilions win SILVER!

Congratulations to residents, Elior, Housing 21 and Axiom staff: this is an excellent example of making a positive difference to people’s lives.

Despite being in post less than two years, Nikki, Head of Operations for Axiom Crossroads Care, based in Peterborough, scooped the Home Care Registered Manager Award at the event hosted by TV presenter, Alison Hammond.

The Great East of England Care Awards, supported by the Department of Health, is part of the Great British Care Awards, a series of

regional awards that celebrate excellence in social care and pay tribute to those who work in the sector. Nikki Ayliff added: “I am absolutely thrilled and very proud of what I have been able to achieve with the support of a great team of staff, which we are now looking to expand, so please do get in touch if you'd like to be a part of this success story."

Benefit from acting FAST Welfare Reform December 2013

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inancial Support and Guidance Barclays : Axiom are working in partnership with Barclays to help residents open bank accounts where they may have been previously denied due to a poor credit history or identification problems. These accounts have been designed to help those in readiness for Universal Credit.

Rainbow Credit Union : If you have problems managing your money; a credit union account may be just the thing for you!

Axiom Homeless Action : All Axiom staff have access to apply for funds for residents in need via our in-house charity. The money can be used towards resettlement, training, education and food parcels.

dvocacy Citizens Advice Bureau : Peterborough CAB and Axiom are working in partnership to offer a specialist service for our tenants one day a week. With the CAB waiting list growing, we have secured a fast track service. If you are in debt, rent arrears or threatened with the bailiffs, this is the service for you.

Income Management Advisor : The Income Management Advisor will continue to work with residents who are experiencing problems with benefits that threaten their ability to keep their home.

upport

raining

Community support : Some of our Volume Controllers have offered to become Welfare Reform champions. They will be given training on the basics of welfare reform and could be the support you need right on your doorstep.

Under-occupation : Whilst we acknowledge that we may not be able to help in all cases, we will build up a clear package of support. We may even be able to assist you with some removal costs.

Axiom Academy : Axiom Academy are able to support residents with a wide range of issues including: money management, IT skills and job preparation.

Act FAST get: Financial help Advocacy Support Training

All of the above are just a call away 01733 347135

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The ARISE editorial team are pleased to advise that this edition of ARISE is available on audio CD.

Chris Wood (ARISE and Disability User Group member) invited sixth form drama students to become part of the audio project. Chris Wood said: “I was really keen to involve younger people in the production of the newsletter so that we could get different voices on the CD. We are piloting this idea in our extra care schemes this Christmas and are hoping to produce an audio version for all future editions of ARISE which we will then make available at each Sheltered and Extra Care scheme, as well as upon request.

ARISE now available on audio CD!

John Haste retires after serving 35 years on Axiom’s Board

The ARISE Editorial Team would like to thank John Haste for his dedication and support over the last 35 years as an Axiom Board Member. John has seen many changes during his 35 years, all of which has been voluntary. He was a member of the original team that recognised the importance of proper housing, both for the benefit of residents themselves, but also for society as a whole. John Haste said: “I already miss being part of an organisation that does so much for so many of their residents in Peterborough and surrounding area.” Thank you John, your commitment is commendable.

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As a member of the Disability User Group I am delighted with this new approach, which will make a big difference to many of our residents who are visually impaired.” If you would like to receive an audio version of this newsletter and all future newsletters, please contact Angela Robinson on 01733 347135.

As we are now in the cold winter

months, we thought it might be worth

mentioning again, some of the help

which may be available with heating,

loans and if you find yourself in financial difficulties as well as debt.

Warm Home Discount for 2013/14

The warm home discount is for pensioners, or people on a low income (if eligible) where a rebate of £135 may be given on winter bills. To qualify, your supplier must be:

• participating in the scheme, • your name or partners must be on the bill • you must be a pensioner getting Guaranteed

Pension credit. Pensioners will be contacted directly if they are eligible, but anyone on a low income who believes they may be eligible, should contact their electricity supplier direct. Electricity suppliers who are part of this scheme are included in the table below.

Help over the winter m nths by the Income Management Team

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Dealing with arrears on gas/ electricity

The most important thing is to

contact your supplier and discuss the problems and make an

agreement to clear the arrears. Some companies have grants and trust funds which may be able to help with these arrears. You may be able to change to a prepaid meter which allows you to pay off a fixed amount on your arrears, as well as for ongoing power. You may be able to arrange third party deductions from your benefits direct to your supplier to pay the arrears. Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) may also be able to help (see page 9).

Atlantic British Gas EDF

EON Equipower Equigas

First Utility Manweb M&S Energy

Npower Sainsburys

Energy Scottish Gas

Scottish Hydro

Scottish Power

Southern Electric

SSE SWALEC Utility

Warehouse

Do you have enough money for food?

If you are struggling financially you may not have enough money

for essentials, such as food. Help is available and includes foodbanks, soup kitchens and local food assistance: Peterborough has a soup kitchen, which delivers hot meals, drinks and sandwiches to those in need. This is a charity run by volunteers and are currently helping 40-60 people a day!

Food is cooked at a central base and then distributed from a van in the car park

behind The Brewery Tap, Peterborough.

Available: 7 pm—

7.30 pm, Monday to Friday and Sunday afternoons.

More information about this scheme can be obtained by calling 0845 603 9439 or on the website www.gov.uk and looking

for warm home discount scheme.

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Axiom’s TOP 10 money saving tips! 1. Shop just before closing time to get

reductions on food but watch those use by dates!

2. Use vouchers from magazines and store loyalty vouchers.

3. Draw your curtains at dusk to keep the heat in.

4. Switch off appliances when not in use. including chargers, kettles and TVs.

5. Use draught excluders against doors to keep heat inside a room.

6. Switch off lights when not in use. 7. Cook batches of food to freeze, including soup,

bolognaise sauce and stews. 8. Make packed lunches and take a flask of tea to

work or when going out. 9. Buy own supermarket brand food such as Value

and Savers including medication and cleaning products.

10. Use up any leftovers and make soup, stews, bubble and squeak and fruit pies!

If you are struggling and needing any help with your finances please call and talk to a member of the income management team on 01733 347135.

Financial help is available!

Why not contact

your local Rainbow Credit Union?

The Rainbow Credit Union, which is open to all Axiom residents, may be able to help. Credit Unions are an alternative to banks and offer banking facilities such as jam jar accounts, savings facilities and affordable loans. There has been a shop in Peterborough since April this year, and is based at 3 Cattlemarket Road, Peterborough. Opening time: Mon to Fri 9.30am to 4 pm. There are also Rainbow Credit Unions in: • CAMBRIDGE • CHERRY HINTON • GREAT YARMOUTH • HALESWORTH • LOWESTOFT • PETERBOROUGH • SAWSTON • WISBECH Since the Peterborough shop opened in April this year 36 Axiom residents have become members (to end of October 2013). In total 1406 new members have joined Rainbow Savers as members during this time. Peterborough

01733 686483 Head Office

01502 584854

Other towns may have something similar; your local CAB office will have details of any local schemes. CAB assistance: for appointments on a Thursday, our Income Team are able to make Axiom residents priority appointments in Peterborough. If you are outside of Peterborough you can have a telephone consultation, or you can contact your local CAB office. Peterborough Community Assistance Scheme (Tel: 0844 499 4120 or 01733 293203) is administered by CAB and can provide help with utilities and referrals to: Foodbanks* DIAL AGE UK Carezone WEEE Reuse MIND Cambridgeshire Local Assistance Scheme is administered by Charis Charities and needs an online referral for help with grants. The Income Management team are able to help with this; please note that Local Assistance schemes replaced the social fund in April this year. * Foodbanks are usually run by the Trussell Trust and you will need a voucher which can be exchanged for 3 days worth of food. Axiom hold vouchers for Foodbanks in Peterborough, Huntingdon and Wisbech.

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Martin Court, Sheltered Scheme, Werrington, Peterborough held a 1940s evening. Scheme Manager Emma Aque tells us about the event. “In the middle of October, residents here at Martin Court went back in time to the 1940’s with the help of ‘The Blitz Dancers’. The evening started with the sound of the air raid siren, a haunting sound even today! Then the four Blitz Dancers entertained us with songs and dancing from the era. They even managed to get a few residents up dancing and we all took part in the actions for ‘Run, Rabbit, Run’.”

First Aid Training Grainne Kiely, Case Worker at Bala House, Homeless Hostel in Grantham, tells us about a first aid project, where clients worked together and had the benefit of learning something at the same time. Grainne said: “All of us here at the project are really keen to involve our residents in projects that can have a positive affect on themselves and their local community. Not only that, we like to encourage them to work together and grow whilst staying at Bala House. We spoke to the British Red Cross, who agreed to come along to the project to deliver some first aid training”. David (client) who attended the training said: “I knew a lot about first aid beforehand as I used to care for my dad, but it was very good to have a refresher. I think I will now pursue another first aid course so I can put it on my CV.”

Martin Court hold a 1940s evening

It’s been a busy time at Bala House!

A great time was had by all and Eileen Hoy, a resident, said: ‘‘What a lovely evening something definitely a bit different. Hope we can have them again!’’

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The Great Bala cook off! Staff at Bala House are committed to making a difference to people’s lives, so when the idea of cooking classes was born, they set too and secured the support of Praful from Cook Connect. Residents are now able to learn how to cook and work together to create something positive; it also goes a long way to developing stronger working relationships with local agencies, such as Cook Connect. Praful said: “It is really nice to be working with an older age range of people; I really enjoy the sessions at Bala House, especially as they make a real difference to all those who attend”.

Grainne Kiely (Axiom Case Worker) added: “I enjoy seeing our residents

working together as a team; they enjoy their cooking activity and of course savour the meal at the end!

Praful is very good and interacts well with the residents; he is

very helpful and informative, and together, we are all learning how to cook a healthy meal cheaply”.

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Paines Mill get on their bikes!

If you or your project or scheme would like to share your news, or feature on these Out and About pages, please let us know.

Eastfield Road open their doors

On Friday 27 September Eastfield Road held their Open Day which was a fantastic event which raised £119.85. Pat Gracey, Senior Service Manager, said: “The residents at Eastfield Road put on a gastronomic delight at their open event with a buffet which included Eton Mess and cream teas. They played old school games like Guess Who and Downfall as well as ‘trying’ to Hoola Hoop, guess the teddy’s name and a lucky dip”. Residents would like to thank the following for their kind contributions: Fair View Court, The New Haven, Landscaping Team, Nafessa, Emma, Michelle and Pat. They would like to thank the following for contributing to the raffle: • Sainsbury’s - £10 shopping voucher, • Planet Ice - voucher for 4 to skate free • Rebecca for the amazing cup cakes • Simon for the handmade necklace

Images from the day

Thanks to their local PCSO Sharon Marsh, residents from Paines Mill Foyer are enjoying the gift of six re-furbished cycles. Matt Richardson Service Manager said: “Sharon Marsh, local PCSO, who works closely with Paines Mill Foyer had a conversation with staff and residents about how difficult and expensive it is for residents to get to work, college or job interviews etc. On behalf of the residents she applied to a scheme run by the police who give abandoned bikes, that haven’t been claimed, to Littlehay prison. They are then serviced and made roadworthy in the prison’s workshop.”

“One of our residents recently secured an apprenticeship as a carpenter, but was struggling with the cost of public transport. I am so pleased that he is now able to use one of the bikes to get to and from work.” PCSO Sharon Marsh said: “Initially I thought of the scheme with one particular resident in mind. However I was delighted when I was told that the Foyer would receive six bikes in total. This now means that more residents are able to benefit which really will make a difference to them all.”

The Pavilions raise £1,000

Congratulations to residents and staff of The Pavilions who raised a fantastic £1,000 at their Christmas fete which was £200 more than last year.

Sheila resident said: “It was marvellous, the raffle had so many unusual prizes and I bought a lot of nice things.” Money was raised from guess the weight of the cake competition, bric a brac, a teddy tombola, request a song and raffle.

Maintenance Update

Gritting Policy As the cold weather is now upon us, we would like to remind everyone to take extra care during icy weather. Axiom are not responsible for clearing snow and ice on any site, however we will take reasonable steps to maintain safe entrances along routes to communal facilities on sheltered schemes. How much gritting we can do, will be dependent on the severity of the weather and the ability to access the schemes; during periods of severe weather implementing this aim may be restricted. If you choose to grit an area near your home, please give consideration to the needs

of other residents, grit should be spread on access footpaths only and not all of the grit should be used by one person.

Frozen Pipes During the winter months there is a risk of water pipes in your property freezing and bursting, which can cause immense

damage to your property and personal belongings. If damage is caused due to burst pipes you will be liable for the cost of repairs; it is therefore important that your contents are insured. To reduce the risk of the water pipes in your property becoming frozen, it is important to keep the property heated at a low temperature.

Melissa Marston

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Once again we thank Melissa Marston, Surveyor, for providing a winter themed update from the Maintenance Team.

Carbon Monoxide The silent killer!

Don’t forget your annual gas service!

Working together for YOUR safety

If your property is going to be unoccupied for a period of time, and you are not able to keep the property heated during your absence, it may be advisable to arrange to have the water pipes drained down which avoids the possibility of burst pipes. For further information or assistance please contact Customer Services on free phone 0800 585 699 during office hours.

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Fuel Poverty strategy

With rising fuel bills and many people feeling the pinch from increased prices, we have produced an Efficiency/Fuel Poverty strategy to help our residents in keeping warm. The strategy has been considered and approved by ARF who welcomed the initiative. The strategy focused on three main areas: • Improving the energy efficiency of

our homes. • Keeping down energy prices. • Helping people maximise their

household income. We will be organising some training events in early January and we will advise people of the dates, venue and how to book a

place via letter, and also via our Axiom Involved Facebook page. Paul Veni, Asset Manager, said: “We know that many of our residents are under pressure financially due to the rises in fuel bills and the energy prices are not going to get better with more price increases just announced by the energy companies. We want to help residents so we will be stepping up our programme of improving the energy efficiency of our properties. We already do this really well, but want to try and take it even further. We will also be running some residents training on keeping warm and if anyone has any concerns about their fuel bills, then we want people to get in touch to see how we can help”

Concerned about your energy bills? As you are probably aware most of the big energy companies are set to increase their prices this winter, meaning that the average household bill will increase by £123. This is concerning news and may result in many people struggling to afford to keep warm this winter. We would urge anybody who is worried about their energy costs to shop around to try to find a better deal. For example the National Housing Federation’s My Home Energy Switch is just one example of a free, impartial comparison and switching service that help to make sure you’re getting the best price for your energy.

Simply visit www.myhomeenergyswitch.org.uk or call 0800 001 4706 to speak to a dedicated customer service team.

STOP PRESS: The Maintenance Advisory Panel have worked with ARF and produced a leaflet about mould and how to prevent condensation. If you would like a

copy please contact customer services.

On a sunny Saturday 28 September, Axiom held its tenth Residents’ Conference at the Kingsgate Centre in Peterborough. Both attendance and satisfaction rates were the highest yet with nearly 130 resident attendees! Feedback from residents was very positive; a resident commented on our Axiom Involved Facebook page: “I would like to give a massive thank you to all Axiom executives and staff, speakers and caterers for another excellent conference. All the best Andy Hubbard, Beech Court, Littleport.” Resident Scott (from Bala House supported project) was also impressed with the conference, and as a result wrote a piece in the Bala House newsletter following his attendance at the Welfare Reform workshop. His article gave advice on websites residents should look at and the support Axiom can give regarding benefits and credit unions. The agenda was packed to bursting, with presentations and workshops from: • Resident Involvement & Facebook • Axiom Residents Forum (ARF) • ARF Executive Team • Gardening workshop • Welfare Reform workshop • Maintenance workshop • Strictly Come Dancing • Plus an opportunity to talk with staff

and external companies in the Axiom Marketplace.

Over lunch, entertainment was provided by the Rhapsody Chorus Choir and in the afternoon has the opportunity to question some of the Executive Team and Melissa Marston (maintenance). There was a ‘duck themed’ quiz with the competition winners announced (see page 15).

Your 10th Residents’ Conference

Article by Tracey Burton

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Competition winners Gardening The winners of the gardening competition were judged by members of the grounds maintenance team were: Best front/back garden WINNER: Les Gleadell (Phoenix Court) Runner up: Douglas Hare (Martin Court) Best communal garden WINNER: The Pavilions Runner up: Kestrel Court Best pots/patio/baskets WINNER: Beryl Wilson (Kestrel Court) Runner up: Doris Alcock (Beech Court)

The R’Oscars! The R’Oscar resident awards were judged by executive committee members of Axiom Residents Forum (ARF). The results were: Most Involved Resident WINNER: Sheila Wood (Moorside Court) Runner up: Sandra McKinnon (Kestrel Court) Best Neighbour WINNER: Judy Labram (Woad Court) Runner up: Ruth Randall (Oak Tree Court) Best Youth WINNER Lewis Hoogendyk (Red Lion Street) Runner up: Marcus Miller (Market Rasen Foyer)

Stronger together! Guest speaker, Michelle Reid (CEO, Tenant Participation Advisory Service ) ended the day, looking at the impact of Welfare Reform on housing and the continued importance of resident involvement and working in partnership with your housing association to be ‘Stronger Together’.

Tracey Burton said: “After months of hard work bringing all the elements of the day together, it’s was pleasure to see residents and staff having an enjoyable day together. Lots of celebrations and fun combined with some serious messages produced a varied and interesting day. I would really like to thank all those staff and residents who helped out with the day.”

L to R: Jan Eadie, Chris Wood, Alan

Lewin, Charlie Gilmore, Michelle

Reid, Brian Harris, Sally Chicken and

Tracey Burton

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Left (L to R): Sheila Wood and Jan Eadie

Above (L to R): Lewis Hoogendyk and Andrew Hildebrandt

Photography by George Wood

Ian Fairlie (on behalf of Les Gleadell and Angie Noble

Left (L to R): Jan Eadie and Judy Labram

Right: L to R: Beryl Wilson and Angie Noble

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Home Swap Event Since the introduction of the under-occupancy charge there has been an increase in people wishing to downsize. To try and assist with this

demand the Peterborough Housing Partnership organised a Home Swap event for under-occupiers and over-occupiers in October at The Salvation Army Citadel. Axiom sent out invite letters and forms to all our residents who were registered with Housing Options, on the House-exchange Scheme, or showing as under-occupying on our records. We

had 17 completed forms returned to us for display on the day. Representatives from the following housing

organisations were on hand at the event; Accent Nene Housing Society, Axiom Housing Association, Bedfordshire Pilgrims Housing Association, Cross Keys Homes, Hyde Minster Housing Association. There were also representations from; Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Credit Union, House-Exchange, Housing Benefit and Housing Options. Maria Marrannino, Housing Manager, said: “A total of 55 residents from across the city attended the event and there were a total of 77 exchange forms available to look at for prospective exchanges. There were 10 correct swaps identified on the day and two Axiom residents have found potential exchanges. Anyone who missed out this time – don’t worry as it is planned to repeat this event spring next year so please look out for further information nearer the time.” PLEASE NOTE : Please note that for residents proceeding with a mutual exchange Axiom will be capping the gas supply on Friday of the move weekend. Uncapping will be arranged on/after the date the Assignment officially starts. For further information on any of the

above please contact the Housing Team.

Two successful home swaps for Axiom residents!

The Oak and the Willows!

A poem by B J Robertson

(Sayer Court) Began an oak of widespread reach His own great strength to praise: The wind blown forest finding speech Ten thousand rustling ways. ‘Observe your king’, oak tried the willows, Far below his agitated crown; ‘You who suckle mud in river shallows, Homage give by kneeling down’. The wind increased; the willows rattled; Together they jostled in discourse; Their mirth to bury they vainly battled: ‘Your Lordship we cannot endorse’. Oak joined thunder with angry roar; His delirious branches brokenly lashed; Came gale and rainfall all the more - By lightning witnessed, down he crashed! The clouds were torn and storm force died; Our oak uprooted lay prostrate, And to those willows weakly cried, ‘Can even I incur this fate?’ Less rattled now the osiers whispered, ‘Unlike you were feared the very end; Oak, your doom is well deserved: Recklessly you fought and would not bend’. ‘If you had knelt with us to show respect, Instead of saying “Osier bow to oak,” You would not like here strom wrecked Upon the roots of humble folk’.

Congratulations Elsie on your 100th birthday

The Editorial Team would like to congratulate Elsie from Beech Court on her 100th Birthday in September. Elsie shown here, on the right, is pictured with her brother Reginald and sister Phyllis. Elsie celebrated with family and friends who even managed to raise £170 for Macmillan Cancer support at a special coffee morning in her honour.

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There are three simple checks you need to do to check that your photo licence is valid:

1) Check the date 2) Check your address 3) Check your name Angela Robinson (Communications Manager) said: “I was listening to the radio a few weeks ago and was staggered to learn that this year 2.6 million driving licences are due to expire. All photo driving licences have a 10 year validity, and having checked mine, I discover that it expires on 27 May 2014. I’ve therefore made a big note in my calendar to ensure its renewed next spring.” If you need a new photo licence you can apply in the following three ways:

“In January 2013, a whopping two million driving licences were NOT VALID!”

Is your photo driving licence valid?

THIS YEAR 2.6 million are due to expire: it’s a £1,000 fine if

1. Online at www.gov.uk

2. By post: forms from most Post Offices or you can order one from the DVLA website.

3. In person at selected Post Offices. This costs an extra £4.50 on top of the £20 fee.

For further information and advice the

www.moneysavingexpert.com website is a really good tool to using when you want to

know more about the detail.

SOURCE: www.moneysaving expert.com

Axiom Crossroads Care wins two new contracts! Bircham House (owned and managed by Sanctuary Housing), Sawston & Willowbank (owned by Anchor), Chesterton, Cambridge. In September, 20 Axiom Crossroads Care staff started work helping more than 65 people to live independently. The two teams provide a variety of services from assisting with shopping through to personal care, including preparing meals and dressing. We provide tailored homecare services so that tenants can remain independent and enjoy a quality of life within a safe and secure environment.

“Following the take over in Sept, all has run smoothly and you wouldn't notice a change" said Dora Northrop (Bircham House). “The carers are wonderful and work very hard. ACC have really worked hard to ensure our care continued as be-fore.” said Audrey Passey (Willowbank) “The girls look after me very well and always help me with things I cannot manage. ACC are doing a very good job and I have not been affected by the change of care provider.” said Graham Davis (Willowbank)

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RETURN TO Angela Robinson Axiom HA Ltd Axiom House Cottesmore Close Netherton Peterborough PE3 9TP By 3 Jan 2014 All correct entries will be placed in a draw.

FIRST PRIZE £15 Love to Shop Voucher SECOND PRIZE £10 Love to Shop Voucher

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The ARISE Editorial Team would like to thank Paul Newton, ARF Chair, for providing this year’s Christmas Quiz. Below are acronyms of Christmas carols and Christmas songs where each letter represents one word of the song title, e.g. WTK = We Three Kings. JB = Jingle Bells. WC = White Christmas.

Christmas Quiz

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

WACIB

WW

OHN

RTRNR

OIRDC

TFN

GRYMG

ISTS

MCE

MAW

LDB

SN

SCICTT

JBR

FTS

AIAM

GKW

MBC

OLTOB

DDMOH

Name ____________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________ POST CODE _______________ CONTACT PHONE NUMBER ________________________________________

You and your rent The Income Management Team would like to remind you how important it is to pay your rent on time. Your rent provides Axiom with the money it needs to make improvements to your home, undertake responsive and cyclical maintenance and build new homes. If you find yourself in financial difficulty, please contact a member of the team who will be able to help you. Whatever the reason, you must call the Income Management Team; even if you’ll only be a day or two late with your payment.

“Thank you to everyone who currently pays

their rent on time.”

Income Management Team 01733 347135

And finally a word from Angela and Tracey! “We would like to encourage you all to submit articles for future editions of ARISE. We work hard with both ARF and the ARISE Editorial Team to ensure that news is equally spread across all areas and that there is a good mix of your stories along with Axiom news and regulatory information. We also work with the ARF Chair, who has the final say on what’s published. However, we still need more of you to send in your personal stories, poems, recipes, celebrations etc. especially from residents living in our general needs properties. So please, don’t be shy, put pen to paper and let us know what you would like to see in future editions of ARISE”. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE IN THIS NEWSLETTER, OR HAVE ANY ISSUES YOU WISH TO RAISE, PLEASE LET US KNOW.

Tracey Burton Angela Robinson Resident Communications Involvement Mgr Manager

STORIES/COMMENTS TO: editorialteam@axiomha.org.uk

01733 347135

Photo

by

GW

YOUR RENT

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Eviction! PLEASE don’t let this happen to you! Message from the Income Team Axiom’s approach to rent arrears is: FIRM but FAIR. Primarily we are here to help residents sustain their tenancies; evictions are a last resort, but so far this year we have evicted five residents for non payment of rent. Please remember it is never too late to contact the Income Management Team; we are here to help. In the majority of cases a re-payment plan is put into place and for those residents that maintain the plan, then eviction is avoided. If you find you are having difficulties paying your rent, or need to understand more about any benefit entitlements, please contact a member of the Income Management Team.

Eviction Notice

“This year we have evicted five residents for non payment of rent”.

Leftover Turkey One Pot Casserole

IF YOU REQUIRE THIS NEWSLETTER IN ANY OTHER FORMAT/ LARGE PRINT PLEASE CONTACT 01733 347135

Jeżeli potrzebują Państwo pomocy, prosimy o kontakt z nami. Jei reikės pagalbos, kreipkitės į mus Caso necessite de ajuda, não hesite em nos contactar. Pokud potřebujete pomoc, prosím kontaktujte nás!

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Cooks Corner

A Christmas recipe chosen for you by the Editorial Team

Axiom House has moved office—our new registered

office address is:

Axiom House Cottesmore Close, Netherton,

Peterborough PE3 9TP

Contacts: Tel: 01733 347135 Fax: 01733 295520 enquiries@axiomha.org.uk

www.axiomha.org.uk

24 hour repairs

freephone 0800 585 699

We’ve moved!

METHOD: Fry the onion and apple in the oil until softened in a casserole or deep pan. Stir in the sage for 1 min, then stir in the flour. Gradually stir in the stock followed by the mustard and honey. Bring up to a simmer and stir in the turkey and roast vegetables. Cover and gently simmer for 15 mins until turkey is piping hot. Season and eat with mashed or jacket potatoes.

Prep: Easy. Time: 15 mins preparation. 25 mins cook. Serves 4. 411 calories per serving. 13g fat. 39g protein.

INGREDIENTS 2 onions (finely chopped) 1 eating apple (cored and chopped) 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon dried sage or 5 sage leaves (chopped) 2 tablespoons plain flour 300 ml vegetable or chicken stock 2 tablespoons wholegrain mustard 2 tablespoons runny honey 400-500g leftover turkey (shredded) 350g leftover vegetables such as roast potatoes, parsnips, celeriac, carrots (diced in large chunks)