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JOB OF THE WEEK: HOUSING OFFICER
02 July 2007
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Angus Housing Association is a growing Organisation with Offices in Dundee and Arbroath. During the current Financial Year, we will have a Development Programme of more than £9m and already have over 2,000 rented and owner occupied houses in management.
Working with Angus and Dundee City Councils and local Voluntary Sector organisations to provide specialist accommodation is an ever increasing part of our work. Co-ordinating Housing Support for our vulnerable tenants and supervising the support given to our over 100 Sheltered Housing tenants are also key areas of our service delivery.
We have, therefore, recently completed a minor staffing and management re-structuring and wish to recruit for the Post of:-
HOUSING OFFICER (SPECIALIST PROVISION)
EVH GRADE 8 - £30,153 TO £32,664 per annum plus Essential User Car Allowance
Working between our Arbroath and Dundee Offices, this Postholder will be the Registered Service Manager for our Housing Support Services with the Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care. All Applicants must, therefore, already hold a suitable qualification or demonstrate an ability to obtain the necessary qualifications for this purpose by Autumn 2009.
Applicants should be highly motivated and preferably have five years experience of working for a Local Authority Housing Department or a Housing Association.
If you are interested in this Post, and want to work for a forward looking Organisation committed to providing first class services, call for an Application Form and an Information Pack.
You can contact us by phoning 01241 879537, by emailing us at admin@aha.org.uk or by writing to us at Angus Housing Association Limited, 93 High Street, Arbroath, DD11 1DP.
Closing date: July 13.
Angus Housing Association Limited is committed to equality of opportunity across the entire range of our activities.
www.aha.org.uk
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TENDER OF THE WEEK: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY
02 July 2007
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A leading housing association specialising in the provision of housing & care homes for older people wishes to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced organisation to develop, prepare, carry out and report on the detailed findings of a Customer Satisfaction Survey.
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Viewpoint Housing Association Limited is a Registered Social Landlord with a stock of around 1,400 properties operating across the Lothians and Fife areas. The majority of our properties comprise sheltered housing for older people, though we also provide general needs, amenity and supported housing, as well as providing financial & management services to other organisations. We are committed to obtaining the views of our customers on our full range of services and we envisage that a sample of 50% of our tenants, care home residents and other customers will be included in the survey.
Organisations interested in providing this service will be expected to:
Demonstrate a proven track record in this field.
Demonstrate awareness of the tenant participation provisions of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001.
Provide an outline of the service areas the survey might cover and the questions that should be asked.
Provide details on how the survey would be conducted, the methodology proposed and how customer participation would be maximised.
Meet with our Tenants’ Focus Group for this project.
Illustrate how we can use as a foundation, and follow-up on the results of our previous Tenant Satisfaction Survey.
State their capacity to complete the survey and necessary reports by January 2008
Provide details of the individuals who would be involved, including their qualifications.
Provide a cost estimate for the survey.
Provide at least two customer references relating to similar projects.
If you wish to discuss our requirements and/or obtain further information you can do so by contacting: Helen Mitchell, Housing Manager or Catherine Louch, Senior Housing Officer Tel: 0131 668 4247, E-mail: helenmitchell@viewpoint.org.uk or catherine@viewpoint.org.uk.
Closing date & time for receipt of submissions: July 17, 2007 by 12.00 noon
Viewpoint Housing Association Ltd, 4 South Oswald Road, Edinburgh EH9 2HG.
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SCOTTISH HOUSING JOBS
02 July 2007
Sanctuary Scotland is seeking a Housing Assistant, £17,544 to £18,717 pa • 35 hours per week. Reporting to the Housing Manager, you’ll help us to keep on top of all the administration, which includes dealing with rents, voids and service standards. There’s never a dull moment, so you’ll need to be a bright individual with good IT skills, a good education (preferably to Higher Standard or similar), and a real interest in helping people with their housing needs. You should also be flexible and have good interpersonal and communication skills. As well as strong support and involvement, you will also receive excellent benefits, which include 26 days annual leave, flexi-time and a pension scheme. To request an application form, please contact Joyce McQuat on 0141 876 4900 and quote reference number SHA1448.
Alternatively, visit www.sanctuary-housing.co.uk to request a pack online. Closing date: July 13.
Williamsburgh Housing Association is seeking Customer Services Assistants, Grade 3: £18,255 - £21,398, 1 full-time post, 1 part-time post (14 hours/week-Thurs/Fri). All customer service requests and enquiries are handled by this team initially, using the association’s established tenant information base. Excellent customer service skills are therefore an essential requirement. In addition, the post-holder must possess clerical and typing skills, in order to provide administrative support to the Housing Management and Maintenance teams. Application pack is available from www.williamsburghha.co.uk or by contacting our Admin Officer at admin@williamsburghha.co.uk, Tel: 0141 847 6383. Closing date: July 18.
Williamsburgh Housing Association is seeking a Housing Assistant, Frade 4: £22,187 - £25,336. As part of our Housing Management team, the Housing Assistant will be charged with providing first-class administrative support to the section. In addition, s/he will work closely with the customer services team regarding their workload. The post-holder must possess excellent administrative skills and have the ability to prioritise and monitor workload. Application pack is available from www.williamsburghha.co.uk or by contacting our Admin Officer at admin@williamsburghha.co.uk, Tel: 0141 847 6383. Closing date: July 18.
Williamsburgh Housing Association is seeking a Maintenance Assistant, Grade 4: £22,187 - £25,336. As part of our maintenance team, the assistant will have the ability to provide administrative support to the section and the technical knowledge needed to provide back-up to the customer services team on maintenance-related matters. Excellent interpersonal skills are also a requirement of this post, as the Assistant will be responsible for liaising with contractors and tenants, to ensure that a high quality maintenance service is delivered and maintained. Application pack is available from www.williamsburghha.co.uk or by contacting our Admin Officer at admin@williamsburghha.co.uk, Tel: 0141 847 6383. Closing date: July 18.
Cairn Housing Association is seeking a Development Officers - Inverness, salary £24,626-£28,101 (including essential car users allowance) dependent on qualifications and experience. We currently require two Development Officers to assist us in the successful delivery of our development programme throughout the Highlands. The ideal candidate will have experience of development matters, preferably with experience of housing associations and the administration requirements related to social housing. The successful candidate will be involved in the various stages of scheme development from inception to completion and will be required to liaise with contractors and consultants on behalf of the Association. She/he will be an effective communicator with a working knowledge of MS Excel and Word applications. For an application pack please call our 24 hour recruitment line on 0131 524 2547. www.cairnha.com. Closing date: July 16.
Link Housing is seeking a Programme Planning Officer, £26,591-£33,685 pa. With a minimum of an HNC in a recognised building qualification and a well developed knowledge of project management, you will have demonstrable expertise in programming planned and cyclical maintenance. You must bring at least five years’ experience in the construction industry, working within a professional discipline, a sound understanding of the maintenance of buildings and budgetary control/financial management. Ref: LH/PPO0607/CN. Closing date: July 13. For an application pack and information, please visit www.linkhousing.co.uk, or phone our HR section on 0141 887 6066 (answer phone). Alternatively, write to us at Abbey Mill Business Centre, Mile End Mill,
12 Seedhill Road, Paisley, PA1 1JS quoting the appropriate reference.
Link Housing is seeking a Programme Management Officer, £26,591-£33,685 pa. With a minimum of an HNC in a recognised building qualification, you will have demonstrable expertise in contracts administration and project management. You must have at least five years’ experience in the construction industry working within a professional discipline, experience of the quantity surveying role – including the preparation of bills of quantities and tender documentation – and budgetary control/ financial management. Ref: LH/PMO0607/CN. Closing date: July 13. For an application pack and information, please visit www.linkhousing.co.uk, or phone our HR section on 0141 887 6066 (answer phone). Alternatively, write to us at Abbey Mill Business Centre, Mile End Mill,
12 Seedhill Road, Paisley, PA1 1JS quoting the appropriate reference.
Link Housing is seeking a Clerk of Works, £26,591-£33,685 pa. With a recognised construction qualification beyond City & Guilds, you willl have a sound understanding of all stages of the clerk of works role for planned and cyclical projects and a commitment to excellent customer care. You must have a minimum of five years’ experience in a clerk of works or similar role and experience of supervising major works programmes, managing contractors and construction health & safety. Ref: LH/COW0607/CN. Closing date: July 13. For an application pack and information, please visit www.linkhousing.co.uk, or phone our HR section on 0141 887 6066 (answer phone). Alternatively, write to us at Abbey Mill Business Centre, Mile End Mill,
12 Seedhill Road, Paisley, PA1 1JS quoting the appropriate reference.
West of Scotland Housing Association is seeking a Senior Technical Officer (Compliance), Cowlairs Office, £30,153 – £32,664. You will ensure the association’s compliance with all legislative regulations and best practice as determined by our regulatory bodies. You will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, good computer literacy skills and the ability to manage a demanding workload and meet deadlines. Experience of writing detailed specifications and knowledge of the Scottish Housing Quality Standard is essential. Duties will include asbestos and Legionella management plans, implementation of the new CDM regulations, and managing service and major repair contracts. If you are interested in an excellent opportunity to gain experience of working in a dynamic, change orientated environment which strives for continuous improvement contact vacancies@westscot.co.uk or 0141 630 4011 for an application pack. Closing date: July 17.
West of Scotland Housing Association is seeking a Finance Assistant, Cowlairs Office, £18,577 - £20,702. We are looking for a motivated team player with excellent communication and numeracy skills. The successful candidate will have a high level of computer literacy skills, the ability to organise and prioritise workload and be able to work under pressure. You will be part of a small team dedicated to the production of key financial information for the Association. Experience in book keeping and operating in a finance role is essential. If you are interested in an excellent opportunity to gain experience of working in a dynamic, change orientated environment which strives for continuous improvement contact vacancies@westscot.co.uk or 0141 630 4011 for an application pack. Closing date: July 17.
Fife Special Housing Association is seeking an Operations Manager, E.V.H. PA Grade 28-31, SALARY: £30,153 - £32,664. The post is a newly created role for the association and the manager will take a lead role in implementing and managing our maintenance operation. Suitable candidates will ideally have a proven track record in this field with a minimum five years recent management experience of a multi-disciplined team, be experienced in managing contracts and operating budgets. A Sound knowledge of Maintenance Departments and a good knowledge of I.T in particular Word, Excel and a stock control system is essential. Our ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate good management skills – including planning and organising staff, be able to demonstrate high standards of Customer Satisfaction and have excellent ICT, reporting/presentation skills. For our Job Application Pack, please contact Fife Special Housing Association, 7 Pitreavie Court, Pitreavie Business Park, Dunfermline, KY11 8UU, Telephone number: 01383 606162. Closing date: July 11.
Kingdom Housing Association is seeking a Development Manager, salary scale £39,958 - £42,793 plus business car user allowance. Applicants must be able to demonstrate relevant project management experience of the development process and have the skills and capabilities to manage a large and varied Housing Association development programme of over £20m per annum. You will be highly motivated, possess excellent networking, communication and team management skills and have experience in the areas of collaborative working, procurement, business planning and risk management. In return for the above we will offer an attractive salary and benefits package to the successful candidate which will include a contributory final salary pension scheme, car allowances and a car loan scheme. Placing on the scale will be dependent on your qualifications and experience. For an application pack please contact Kingdom Housing Association Limited, Saltire Centre, Pentland Court, Glenrothes, KY6 2DA, telephone (01592) 632577 (Voicemail). Email: kingdom@kingdomhousing.org.uk, web: www.kingdomhousing.org.uk . Closing date: July 30.
The BHA Group is seeking a Property Services Manager, up to £35,000 pa (pay structure review is pending). Taking overall responsibility for the maintenance of all the property in our portfolio, you’ll research, plan and implement improvement, cyclical and planned maintenance programmes of capital work, always looking for the most cost-effective route. You’ll ensure quality work and effective management is carried out and that regulatory and statutory requirements are met. With proven success of leading and managing property services staff, you’ll deliver the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. You must have MIPM or MRICS or equivalent, or a demonstrable ability to achieve membership, as well as at least five years’ experience in property management and maintenance. Excellent budget control is essential and you’ll be computer literate with sound judgement of innovative technical solutions for maintenance problems. Ideally, you’ll also have knowledge of energy efficiency and renewable energy technology, and familiarity with Communities Scotland. For an application pack, call Pat Grieve on 01361 883115 or visit www.bhagroup.org.uk to find out more about the role. For informal enquiries please contact Alastair Brown, Director of Operations. Closing date: July 23, 10am.
Docherty Consulting Ltd (DCL) is seeking a Housing Consultant. You should be familiar with and have experience in the affordable housing sector; and be able to speak to people in a way that encourages them to listen and makes them want to respond positively. You should also have some or all of the following: A degree in a relevant subject; relevant professional qualification; for example housing, planning, surveying, regeneration; An understanding of the development process and the issues affecting the delivery of affordable housing. Please take a look at our web site at www.dochertyconsulting.com and if you are interested in hearing more send us your career details and a short letter setting out what you think you have to offer and what you would expect in return. If you would like to discuss your interest informally please telephone Peter Docherty on 0131 554 3300. Please send your reply to:
Docherty Consulting Ltd, 121 Giles Street, Leith, Edinburgh or by e mail to: Info@dochertyconsulting.com.
Hanover Scotland Housing Association is seeking a Maintenance Assistant, £7,896 to £8,905 p.a., Job Share 17.5 hours per week average, Newton Place, Glasgow. Duties will involve processing repair notifications and works orders, ensuring prompt arrangements for repair of properties, invoice administration, budget monitoring, and correspondence with clients and contractors. You will be a competent in the use of IT including word-processing and spreadsheets, and have experience in database applications. You will also be able to communicate clearly and effectively with clients and contractors on maintenance and estate management issues. Hours of work are 0900 to 1700 to be carried out on a Monday to Friday basis on a two weekly rota i.e. two days one week three days the next.(Ref:095). Service conditions include generous annual leave and final salary pension. For an application pack, write to The Personnel Officer at Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association, 95 McDonald Road, Edinburgh, Tel: 0131 557 7430 or email: recruit@hsha.org.uk. Please quote the appropriate reference number in all correspondence. Application packs can also be downloaded from our website: www.hsha.org.uk. Closing Date: July 9.
ACHA is seeking a Student Placement, (July to September 2007), 35 hours per week, salary: £201.95 per week. The Association is seeking to provide four temporary summer placements to students studying for a professional housing qualification or with an interest in housing. The placements will be based across four Area Housing & Neighbourhood Services Teams in Cowal & Bute, Mid Argyll & Kintyre, Oban Lorn & the Isles and Lomond. Duties will include assisting with the delivery of Housing Management and Repairs Services provided by the Area Teams. This will involve front line customer services ranging from dealing with enquiries to collecting rents; supporting professional officers in carrying out inspections, estate management visits and provide a sound environment in which students can enhance their theoretical skills with practical experience. For a recruitment pack and further information please contact the HR & Corporate Services Department, 63/65 Chalmers Street, Ardrishaig, PA30 8DX, Tel No 01546 604098 or email marina.macarthur@acha.co.uk, or visit the Recruitment section on the Association’s website at www.acha.co.uk where recruitment packs can be downloaded. Closing Date: July 6.
Lovell is seeking a Resident Liasion Officer – Scotland, full time - 39 hours per week offering an attractive salary, depending on experience. Reporting directly to the Resident Liaison Manager you will be accountable for all aspects of communications with residents to establish and maintain positive relationships at all stages of our improvement works, ensuring that they receive a high quality service, so excellent communication skills are a must. Operating within an established site team your ability to work on your own initiative and have excellent decision-making skills, computer literacy and a full driving license are required. You will be expected to spend a large amount of proactive time on the field, as we believe this way of working is good practice and results in fewer issues occurring. We offer substantial benefits including 26 days annual leave, pension scheme, private health care and a strong commitment to training and further development. For further information and a confidential discussion please contact: Sarah Whyte, Resident Liaison Manager, Lovell Partnerships Limited, Lovell House, Parkway Court, 271 Springhill Parkway, Glasgow, G69 6GA, tel: 0141 766 3030 or email: bizdev.scotland@lovell.co.uk. www.lovell.co.uk. Closing date: Noon on July 6. |
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MINISTER TO MEET MSPs OVER COMMUNITY LAND CONCERNS
02 July 2007
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Fergus Ewing
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Community safety minister, Fergus Ewing has agreed to meet MSPs concerned about poor maintenance of common land on housing estates.
SNP Livingston MSP, Angela Constance raised the issue in the Scottish Parliament, asking if the Scottish Executive would examine existing legislation to ensure homeowners had protection and recourse from land management companies that have sole rights to manage land.
Linlithgow Labour MSP, Mary Mulligan highlighted concerns about the Greenbelt group, which is responsible for managing common land in Armadale and Bathgate. She said homeowners had to have some redress if land management companies did not fulfil their obligations.
Mr Ewing said house buyers should ensure there were adequate arrangements in the title deeds for management and maintenance of common areas when buying property and homeowners should seek legal advice on whether land management companies were meeting their contractual obligations.
But he said: "This is a very serious problem. Poorly managed open spaces not only fail to meet the needs of local communities, but can inhibit regeneration."
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SCOTTISH HOUSING NEWS WELCOMES KYPERA
02 July 2007
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Scottish Housing News would like to welcome Kypera as a supporting advertiser.
Kypera provides business software solutions for Social Housing including Housing Management, Financials, Maintenance Planning, Supporting People monitoring and returns, web based purchasing and invoicing and extensive Management and Operational Reporting.
These have proved cost effective, reduced time on administration and enhanced customer service delivery by our 100+ Housing customers. Kypera are an international company with offices in New Zealand and South Africa. As well as Social Housing the Kypera products are established in Central Government, Charities and private sector firms.
Kypera acquired the Hometeam customer base of around 35 Scottish housing associations in the summer of 2006 and has been working hard to integrate the product into the Kypera suite and to establish Kypera methodologies for development and support. Hometeam users now have an integrated Finance aspect to the system and the existing Housing users of Kypera Financials can now implement the integrated Hometeam product.
Some of the business benefits of the software include:
Integration between housing and financial operations – matching invoices to repair orders with a single suppliers register and posting receipts to ledgers.
The use of Work trays enables staff to manage their tasks not just data.
Comprehensive on-screen, electronic and printed reporting
Easy integration to Office systems such as email, PDF, Excel and Word.
Simple set up and maintenance by non-IT users
A long term strategy for product Development and Technology with the use of Microsoft standards .Net and SQL Server.
Continued development of web based functionality for mobile and remote working.
Kypera have comprehensive product development plans that will see the capability of the systems grow and will help our customers take advantage of the work we are doing in the latest technology.
For information: Steve Lyon, Steve.lyon@kypera.com; www.kypera.com. Tel: 0207 553 4900, Mob: 07808 917824.
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LOVELL SPONSORS GOOD PRACTICE IN PARTICIPATION AWARDS
02 July 2007
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Jim Coleman presents the award to North Ayrshire Council
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Scotland’s leading affordable housing provider, Lovell has sponsored the annual Good Practice in Participation Awards 2007, organised by Tenant Participation Advisory Service Scotland, the Chartered Institute of Housing in Scotland and Communities Scotland.
The event, which was held at the Apex City Hotel, Edinburgh at the end of May, recognises the good work being undertaken by organisations throughout communities in Scotland. Awards were presented to organisations who embraced an innovative approach to participation.
Jim Coleman, partnership manager for Lovell in Scotland, presented the awards on behalf of the organisers and said: “Lovell is delighted to sponsor this event. This is a fantastic opportunity for tenant organisations to share best practice.
“From our point of view as a developer/contractor focusing entirely on affordable housing and the regeneration of communities, we use local consultation to assist us in making the right decisions for our projects.
“We aim to inspire local people to make sure the changes we initiate are just the beginning of achieving our long-term aim of leaving behind a thriving and proud community, pulling together to ensure its continued success. We can only manage our aim through good practice and tenant participation.”
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WE’RE ON THE UP AND UP
02 July 2007
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With over 500 new subscribers in June flocking to sign up for our free daily housing and construction newsletters and nearly 2,000 new unique visitors to our websites, we were not surprised to learn that on-line advertising has now overtaken newspaper advertising for the first time in the UK.
The Advertising Association reports that web advertising revenue soared by
42 per cent from the first quarter of 2006.
By contrast, print and broadcast media revenues continued their inexorable decline. Business magazines and regional press titles were the worst hit as advertisers – just like readers— switch massivley on-line.
Advertising on-line reaches the relevant audience at a fraction of the price. To advertise here, contact Contact Publicity on 0141 204 2042.
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HIGHLAND COUNCIL TO BUILD NEW CARE HOMES
02 July 2007
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The Highland Council has confirmed a motion presented by the Independent/ SNP administration to end the commissioning of five new care homes from the independent sector and instead agreed to build and run the homes itself.
It is part of wider set of proposals to increase investment in care for the elderly, which will include an extra 600 new houses suitable for older people in the Highlands and an increase in the council’s home care budget by 50% over the next four years.
Cllr Margaret Davidson, Chairman of the Housing and Social Work Committee, said: “I am pleased that council has agreed that we progress the plans. The care homes and the additional home care will be a priority – in fact care for our older people will be a priority with this Administration.”
The council will build five care homes between 2008-9 and 2012-13 in Inverness, Grantown, Fort William, Muir of Ord and Tain, replacing 6 existing care homes which do not meet fire regulations, disability legislation and Care Commission standards.
The estimated capital cost of the five care homes is £21.5m. The council will use its borrowing powers to fund this and will pay loans charges of £1.5m per year for 30 years when the homes are built.
An increasing number of residents of care homes need nursing care. The new homes will be built and staffed to provide this. It is estimated that there will be an additional staffing cost of up to £700,000 per year to deliver nursing care. The council currently spends £8m per year on home care. The proposals will increase that to £12 million by 2011-12.
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EVENT LOOKS TO SCORE WITH REGENERATION
02 July 2007
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An upcoming Scottish Urban Regeneration Forum (SURF) conference will look at the shared goals of football and regeneration.
This event will explore the role professional football plays in physical, social and economic regeneration by addressing questions like what positive contribution does football already make to regeneration and can more be done to develop this link?
Key conference participants include Mel Young, President of the Homeless World Cup; Lex Gold, Chair of the Scottish Premier League; George Craig, Managing Director of Falkirk FC (SPL Community Club of the Year 2006-7); Pat Nevin, ex-Internationalist & media personality and Alan Southern, University of Liverpool.
Stewart Maxwell MSP, Minister for Communities and Sport, has been invited to take part, in addition to senior representatives of the Scottish Football Association, Communities Scotland and other relevant organisations
The conference will include interactive elements such as question & answer sessions and facilitated workshops with specially invited guests.
Football and Regeneration is a SURF Conference held in partnership with the Social Enterprise Institute and supported by the Co-Operative Group - Scotland Co-op.
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PARKHEAD ENDS 30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS WITH PENALTIES
02 July 2007
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Parkhead Housing Association’s 30th anniversary football tournament was won by local youth football coaching project Urban Fox after a penalty shoot out victory over Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Parkhead.
The final, which came after three nights of exciting football, was played in typical Scottish summer weather, a torrential downpour with thunder and lightning.
The association’s own team won the wooden spoon after a late collapse allowed Strathclyde Community Police to grab fifth place. Parkhead Youth Project had two teams in the tournament and they finished third and fourth respectively.
Ex Celtic star George McCluskey presented the trophy to Urban Fox team captain John Mcgowan.
Parkhead Housing Association Chairperson, Susan Mckeown thanked all the teams for taking part and said: “Football is an obsession in Parkhead and so it seemed appropriate that Parkhead Housing Association should include a football tournament that brought together those who live and those who work in Parkhead as part of our thirtieth anniversary celebrations.
“Hopefully some of the younger players from Parkhead Youth Project who played will be on the association’s Management Committee organising such a tournament for our 50th anniversary.”
The tournament was sponsored by Kypera and Golder Landscapes.
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JOB OF THE WEEK: HOUSING OFFICER
03 July 2007
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Angus Housing Association is a growing Organisation with Offices in Dundee and Arbroath. During the current Financial Year, we will have a Development Programme of more than £9m and already have over 2,000 rented and owner occupied houses in management.
Working with Angus and Dundee City Councils and local Voluntary Sector organisations to provide specialist accommodation is an ever increasing part of our work. Co-ordinating Housing Support for our vulnerable tenants and supervising the support given to our over 100 Sheltered Housing tenants are also key areas of our service delivery.
We have, therefore, recently completed a minor staffing and management re-structuring and wish to recruit for the Post of:-
HOUSING OFFICER (SPECIALIST PROVISION)
EVH GRADE 8 - £30,153 TO £32,664 per annum plus Essential User Car Allowance
Working between our Arbroath and Dundee Offices, this Postholder will be the Registered Service Manager for our Housing Support Services with the Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care. All Applicants must, therefore, already hold a suitable qualification or demonstrate an ability to obtain the necessary qualifications for this purpose by Autumn 2009.
Applicants should be highly motivated and preferably have five years experience of working for a Local Authority Housing Department or a Housing Association.
If you are interested in this Post, and want to work for a forward looking Organisation committed to providing first class services, call for an Application Form and an Information Pack.
You can contact us by phoning 01241 879537, by emailing us at admin@aha.org.uk or by writing to us at Angus Housing Association Limited, 93 High Street, Arbroath, DD11 1DP.
Closing date: July 13.
Angus Housing Association Limited is committed to equality of opportunity across the entire range of our activities.
www.aha.org.uk
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TENDER OF THE WEEK: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY
03 July 2007
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A leading housing association specialising in the provision of housing & care homes for older people wishes to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced organisation to develop, prepare, carry out and report on the detailed findings of a Customer Satisfaction Survey.
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Viewpoint Housing Association Limited is a Registered Social Landlord with a stock of around 1,400 properties operating across the Lothians and Fife areas. The majority of our properties comprise sheltered housing for older people, though we also provide general needs, amenity and supported housing, as well as providing financial & management services to other organisations. We are committed to obtaining the views of our customers on our full range of services and we envisage that a sample of 50% of our tenants, care home residents and other customers will be included in the survey.
Organisations interested in providing this service will be expected to:
Demonstrate a proven track record in this field.
Demonstrate awareness of the tenant participation provisions of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001.
Provide an outline of the service areas the survey might cover and the questions that should be asked.
Provide details on how the survey would be conducted, the methodology proposed and how customer participation would be maximised.
Meet with our Tenants’ Focus Group for this project.
Illustrate how we can use as a foundation, and follow-up on the results of our previous Tenant Satisfaction Survey.
State their capacity to complete the survey and necessary reports by January 2008
Provide details of the individuals who would be involved, including their qualifications.
Provide a cost estimate for the survey.
Provide at least two customer references relating to similar projects.
If you wish to discuss our requirements and/or obtain further information you can do so by contacting: Helen Mitchell, Housing Manager or Catherine Louch, Senior Housing Officer Tel: 0131 668 4247, E-mail: helenmitchell@viewpoint.org.uk or catherine@viewpoint.org.uk.
Closing date & time for receipt of submissions: July 17, 2007 by 12.00 noon
Viewpoint Housing Association Ltd, 4 South Oswald Road, Edinburgh EH9 2HG.
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GHA DEMOLISHES 23-STOREY DALMARNOCK BLOCK
03 July 2007
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The 23-storey block goes down
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Glasgow Housing Association has successfully demolished the 23-storey block at 131 Allan Street, Dalmarnock.
The block stood on the site earmarked for the athletes’ village during the 2014 Commonwealth Games, should Glasgow’s bid be successful.
Approximately 85kg of explosives, and some 2000 individual charges, brought the 42-year-old former GHA blockto the ground.
Louise Martin, chair of Glasgow's Commonwealth Games Bid Council, and Commonwealth silver medal winning hurdler, Chris Baillie were present as the block, which was once home to 262 households came down.
Glasgow City Council has already demolished two other blocks on the site in preparation for the construction of the athletes' village required should Glasgow be successful in winning the 2014 Games.
East End Community Homes, the local housing organisation which manages homes in the area on behalf of GHA, has worked with the remaining tenants to provide them with suitable alternative local accommodation.
The properties in the block were emptied by August 2006 and explosives experts have been on site since then, busy preparing the building for yesterday's demolition. For health and safety reasons, two properties adjacent to the tower block were evacuated during the demolition along with one commercial property.
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ENERGY CHARITIES WARN OVER FUEL POOR HOUSEHOLDS
03 July 2007
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Leading fuel poverty charities, Energy Action Scotland and National Energy Action (NEA) have warned that the legally binding dates for Government to eradicate the problem for all households in the UK will be missed.
The figures, published in the Energy White Paper, will apply if the highest projected level of fuel price increases are realised over the next three years. Even the most optimistically low projection would still leave many homes in fuel poverty.
The Government’s UK Fuel Poverty Strategy 2001 set out a commitment to end fuel poverty. In Scotland, the Housing Act 2001 required the Scottish Executive to end fuel poverty, as far as practicable, by 2016. Drastic increases in domestic fuel bills since 2003 have resulted in fuel poverty doubling to a current level of 600,000 households in Scotland - and almost 4 million across the UK.
The figures underline the call to the Scottish Parliament for an inquiry into fuel poverty. The call, made by a group of 13 Scottish charities including EAS, to the new Communities Committee, said: “A committee inquiry would enable a thorough review of progress to date, examining what has and hasn't worked, and identify what further interventions are required.”
Following this call, EAS and NEA are today publishing the UK Fuel Poverty Monitor, which reviews the four energy efficiency programmes in Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It is acknowledged that all four programmes are valuable and beneficial; nevertheless there remains scope for improvement and the purpose of the report is to make recommendations which draw on best practice from across the UK.
Norman Kerr, Director of EAS, said: “Solutions to fuel poverty do work, but it is essential that a strong commitment in terms of funding and policy are not only sustained but increased in order to mitigate the effects of high and fluctuating domestic fuel prices. While there is much interest in climate change, the fuel poor who are among the most vulnerable groups, need specific and targeted help that will protect them from the many problems that arise from living in a cold, damp home with high fuel bills.”
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EAST REGION HOUSING MANAGEMENT FORUM
03 July 2007
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The next meeting of East Region Housing Management Forum will take place at 2pm on Wednesday, July 11 at Prospect Community Housing, 6 Westburn Avenue, Wester Hailes, Edinburgh EH14 2TH.
The guest speaker will be SFHA Chief Executive, Jacqui Watt.
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LOVELL SPONSORS GOOD PRACTICE IN PARTICIPATION AWARDS
03 July 2007
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Jim Coleman presents the award to North Ayrshire Council
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Scotland’s leading affordable housing provider, Lovell has sponsored the annual Good Practice in Participation Awards 2007, organised by Tenant Participation Advisory Service Scotland, the Chartered Institute of Housing in Scotland and Communities Scotland.
The event, which was held at the Apex City Hotel, Edinburgh at the end of May, recognises the good work being undertaken by organisations throughout communities in Scotland. Awards were presented to organisations who embraced an innovative approach to participation.
Jim Coleman, partnership manager for Lovell in Scotland, presented the awards on behalf of the organisers and said: “Lovell is delighted to sponsor this event. This is a fantastic opportunity for tenant organisations to share best practice.
“From our point of view as a developer/contractor focusing entirely on affordable housing and the regeneration of communities, we use local consultation to assist us in making the right decisions for our projects.
“We aim to inspire local people to make sure the changes we initiate are just the beginning of achieving our long-term aim of leaving behind a thriving and proud community, pulling together to ensure its continued success. We can only manage our aim through good practice and tenant participation.”
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FREE RENEWABLE ENERGY SEMINAR IN EDINBURGH
03 July 2007
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As part of its commitment to addressing the problems of climate change, UK boiler manufacturer Baxi is holding a free-of-charge seminar to inform domestic heating engineers, house builders and social housing providers about renewable energy.
At the seminar, which is at the Balmoral Hotel, Princes Street, Edinburgh on July 10, the guest speaker will be Dr Richard Dixon of WWF Scotland, who will talk about climate change.
He will be followed by an outline of heating specific legislation and the Government’s Standard Assessment Procedure for the energy rating of dwellings (SAP).
In the afternoon there will be workshop sessions to look at Micro CHP, solar, heat pumps and Biomass.
To book your place at the seminar please email your details to enquiries@baxi.co.uk or telephone 08706 060623.
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STIRLING TENANTS ASSEMBLY WINS AWARD
03 July 2007
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Empowering tenants in the management of their homes has won Stirling Tenants Assembly's Tenant Led Inspection Team the 2007 Tenants and Residents Group Participation Project award.
Organised by TPAS Scotland, Chartered Institute of Housing in Scotland, Lovell’s and Communities Scotland, the fourth Good Practice Awards recognises the important work taking place throughout Scotland, by tenants and residents groups and landlords to promote and embrace tenant participation.
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The Assembly’s Tenant Led Inspection team won the top award for their work carrying out detailed inspections of Stirling Council housing stock and scrutinising how the council manages and maintains their homes.
At a meeting of the council, Tenant Led Inspection team members Mary Rainey and Philomena McClung presented the award to Stirling Provost Margaret Brisley so that the award may be displayed within the Council’s Viewforth Headquarters.
A spokesperson for the Tenant Led Inspection team said: "We are delighted that our hard work paid off and are pleased to dedicate the award to Stirling Council."
Provost Margaret Brisley said: “We are delighted to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of the Stirling Assembly and the Tenant Led Inspection Team on winning this award.
“We believe that tenant led inspections help to deliver a better housing service and this is only the start of many awards to come for a team who are a shining example to tenant groups across the country.”
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IRVINE ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF KIDS COMPETITION
03 July 2007
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Irvine Housing Association has announced the winners of a competition with local primary schools to design a dream homes.
Irvine invited a small group of children from Glebe Primary School and Annick Primary School to visit their new build development sites at Thornhouse Avenue and Montgomerie Park, Irvine.
During the visit the children were informed about health and safety issues that affect building sites and Ashleigh’s Contracts Manager, Roy Walker, showed them around the developments.
At the end of the visits the children were invited to enter a competition to design their dream home. Mr Walker and the association’s Development Officer, Frank Boyle, visited both schools to announce the winners.
The winner from Glebe Primary School was Chloe from Primary 6 and the winner from Annick Primary School was Emily from Primary 7. Both winners received a certificate showing their winning designs and a Family Day Pass for Xscape, Breahead. The day pass was donated by the main contractors, Ashleigh (Scotland) Ltd.
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EDINBURGH BUILDING SERVICES WINS TOP HONOURS
03 July 2007
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Edinburgh Building Services (EBS) has won the TJ Award for Best Change Management Programme.
The EBS team, which works in partnership with Pinnacle, received this achievement at the TJ Awards, the Training Journal’s annual event to recognise excellence in Learning and Development across the public, private and voluntary sectors.
This is the third national award that EBS has achieved in less than a year having scooped an award for best practice from the Association of Public Service Excellence and a COSLA award for Securing a Workforce for the Future.
Representing Edinburgh City Council’s Services for Communities team, Andrew Miller and Ian Robertson picked up the award.
Andrea McHugh, EBS’ Head of Service, said: “This is a direct outcome of all the hard work over the last few years at EBS that the team have achieved in partnership with Pinnacle. When I see the enthusiasm and spirit of the people at EBS, it is difficult for me to imagine what life used to be like three years ago. This transformation could not have happened without the commitment and engagement of everyone involved in this partnership.”
Mr Robertson added: “The Learning and Development successes at EBS have gained the team annual recognition over the last three years from APSE then the COSLA success further acknowledged how far EBS has come. Now to be recognised by our peers in Learning and Development is excellent.”
Steve White, Pinnacle Director, said: “This is a direct outcome of all the hard work over the last few years at EBS that the team have achieved in partnership with Pinnacle.”
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JOB OF THE WEEK: HOUSING OFFICER
04 July 2007
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Angus Housing Association is a growing Organisation with Offices in Dundee and Arbroath. During the current Financial Year, we will have a Development Programme of more than £9m and already have over 2,000 rented and owner occupied houses in management.
Working with Angus and Dundee City Councils and local Voluntary Sector organisations to provide specialist accommodation is an ever increasing part of our work. Co-ordinating Housing Support for our vulnerable tenants and supervising the support given to our over 100 Sheltered Housing tenants are also key areas of our service delivery.
We have, therefore, recently completed a minor staffing and management re-structuring and wish to recruit for the Post of:-
HOUSING OFFICER (SPECIALIST PROVISION)
EVH GRADE 8 - £30,153 TO £32,664 per annum plus Essential User Car Allowance
Working between our Arbroath and Dundee Offices, this Postholder will be the Registered Service Manager for our Housing Support Services with the Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care. All Applicants must, therefore, already hold a suitable qualification or demonstrate an ability to obtain the necessary qualifications for this purpose by Autumn 2009.
Applicants should be highly motivated and preferably have five years experience of working for a Local Authority Housing Department or a Housing Association.
If you are interested in this Post, and want to work for a forward looking Organisation committed to providing first class services, call for an Application Form and an Information Pack.
You can contact us by phoning 01241 879537, by emailing us at admin@aha.org.uk or by writing to us at Angus Housing Association Limited, 93 High Street, Arbroath, DD11 1DP.
Closing date: July 13.
Angus Housing Association Limited is committed to equality of opportunity across the entire range of our activities.
www.aha.org.uk
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TENDER OF THE WEEK: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY
04 July 2007
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A leading housing association specialising in the provision of housing & care homes for older people wishes to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced organisation to develop, prepare, carry out and report on the detailed findings of a Customer Satisfaction Survey.
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Viewpoint Housing Association Limited is a Registered Social Landlord with a stock of around 1,400 properties operating across the Lothians and Fife areas. The majority of our properties comprise sheltered housing for older people, though we also provide general needs, amenity and supported housing, as well as providing financial & management services to other organisations. We are committed to obtaining the views of our customers on our full range of services and we envisage that a sample of 50% of our tenants, care home residents and other customers will be included in the survey.
Organisations interested in providing this service will be expected to:
Demonstrate a proven track record in this field.
Demonstrate awareness of the tenant participation provisions of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001.
Provide an outline of the service areas the survey might cover and the questions that should be asked.
Provide details on how the survey would be conducted, the methodology proposed and how customer participation would be maximised.
Meet with our Tenants’ Focus Group for this project.
Illustrate how we can use as a foundation, and follow-up on the results of our previous Tenant Satisfaction Survey.
State their capacity to complete the survey and necessary reports by January 2008
Provide details of the individuals who would be involved, including their qualifications.
Provide a cost estimate for the survey.
Provide at least two customer references relating to similar projects.
If you wish to discuss our requirements and/or obtain further information you can do so by contacting: Helen Mitchell, Housing Manager or Catherine Louch, Senior Housing Officer Tel: 0131 668 4247, E-mail: helenmitchell@viewpoint.org.uk or catherine@viewpoint.org.uk.
Closing date & time for receipt of submissions: July 17, 2007 by 12.00 noon
Viewpoint Housing Association Ltd, 4 South Oswald Road, Edinburgh EH9 2HG.
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NEW CUMBERNAULD CHIEF EXECUTIVE CALLS FOR JOINT WORKING
04 July 2007
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The new Chief Executive of Cumbernauld Housing Partnership is looking to collaboration as the way forward for the Partnership as it works with tenants and stakeholders towards a better future.
Carol Paton
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With more than 20 years of experience in the housing sector, Carol Paton has been in the director's seat, on governing bodies, a policy maker and a regulator. Carol replaces interim Chief Executive Richard Veale.
Throughout her career, she has shown herself as insightful, skilled in business analysis, rapport building, listening, and challenging. She also sees opportunities for improvement others may miss. As she takes up her 12 month position as Chief Executive of, she is emphatic that forward is the only way to look.
She said: "Cumbernauld Housing Partnership believes in change for the better it wants to create a stronger future."
With regards to the upcoming talks with Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association, Carol said: "The Partnership is determined that it is here to stay and it is looking at what are the best ways to improve services and investment in its housing. Going to a group structure can mean greater clout whilst retaining a local focus.
"Having said that, the Partnership has to be very clear about the benefits and consequences about going into a group structure and there will be multiple consultations with key stakeholders over this issue. My role will be to build the confidence of all key stakeholders in the future of the partnership.
"It's going to be about finding more effective, ways of working in the future and there's more than one way of doing that. Cumbernauld Housing Partnership will be looking with an open mind to find the best solution that delivers the best security of service and investment."
Partnership Chairman, Alex Clark, said: "Carol has impressive credentials and ideas for the coming weeks and months. I look forward to working with her to improve things for the stakeholders and tenants of the Partnership."
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CAMPAIGN TO RAISE H.A.’s AWARENESS OF FINANCIALLY EXCLUDED
04 July 2007
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A new campaign, Now Let’s Talk Money, is looking to housing associations to registers their staff to free financial inclusion workshops.
A lack of awareness of how to access basic services is creating a group of financially excluded people. Housing associations are strategically placed to reach the financially excluded at a local level.
Through the campaign, housing associations have the opportunity to register their staff for free Financial Exclusion workshops within their local area.
Financial exclusion imposes real costs on individuals, and on society as a whole. People without bank accounts pay more to access their cash, cannot take advantage of direct debit discounts for utilities, and often find it hard to gain employment
Lack of access to affordable credit means people have to borrow from high cost providers, or worse, illegal loan sharks. Knowing where to get money advice before things get out of control is critical. It is estimated that 8 out of 10 financially excluded people live in socially rented accommodation.
A campaign spokesman in Scotland, said: “Financial exclusion is something we should all be aware off, for it can affect any of us, it can occur through a change in circumstances such as family break up, redundancy or even ill health – leaving us in a worse financial position than we are in today.”
Workshops will give a background to financial exclusion and help raise staff awareness of the products and services that can benefit the financially excluded. For more information or to book a workshop contact:
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SYHN TRAINING PROGRAMME 2007-2008 NOW AVAILABLE
04 July 2007
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The Scottish Youth Housing Network’s (SYHN) training programme for 2007-2008 is now available.
On September 4, Beginner's guide to housing law and related issues will be held in Glasgow. It will tell attendees about tenancy types, allocations procedures and tenant participation.
It will look at how housing allocations systems work, tenancy types, and what the controls are for anti-social behaviour. It is suitable for those who need to give straightforward information to young people about their housing situation. No prior knowledge is needed.
On October 18, Introduction to welfare benefits and housing costs for young people, in Edinburgh.
This revised course is for staff who would like to know more about benefits for young people under 25, including personal income and help to pay rent and Council Tax. The course will cover specific benefits such as income based Jobseeker's Allowance, Income Support, Incapacity Benefit, Housing and Council Tax benefits and will look at issues around the New Deal, benefit sanctions, 16/17 year olds, Work Focused Interviews, studying and benefits, claiming, and challenging a decision. An ideal introduction for beginners or for those wanting to refresh their knowledge.
All courses are £100 for SYHN subscribers and £145 to non-subscribers. Subscription for one year costs £45 for voluntary organisations and £55 for statutory organisations. For a full programme or to book visit www.syhn.org.uk or contact wendy@scsh.org.uk tel: 0131 226 4382.
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LOVELL SPONSORS GOOD PRACTICE IN PARTICIPATION AWARDS
04 July 2007
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Jim Coleman presents the award to North Ayrshire Council
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Scotland’s leading affordable housing provider, Lovell has sponsored the annual Good Practice in Participation Awards 2007, organised by Tenant Participation Advisory Service Scotland, the Chartered Institute of Housing in Scotland and Communities Scotland.
The event, which was held at the Apex City Hotel, Edinburgh at the end of May, recognises the good work being undertaken by organisations throughout communities in Scotland. Awards were presented to organisations who embraced an innovative approach to participation.
Jim Coleman, partnership manager for Lovell in Scotland, presented the awards on behalf of the organisers and said: “Lovell is delighted to sponsor this event. This is a fantastic opportunity for tenant organisations to share best practice.
“From our point of view as a developer/contractor focusing entirely on affordable housing and the regeneration of communities, we use local consultation to assist us in making the right decisions for our projects.
“We aim to inspire local people to make sure the changes we initiate are just the beginning of achieving our long-term aim of leaving behind a thriving and proud community, pulling together to ensure its continued success. We can only manage our aim through good practice and tenant participation.”
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ANGUS H.A. CHAIR STEPS DOWN AT AGM
04 July 2007
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Alex Gibson gets a leaving gift
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Angus Housing Association has held a successful Annual General Meeting at the Sensation Science Centre in Dundee at which was current Chairman, Alex Gibson, stood down after five years in the post.
In his report to the tenants and shareholders of the association, Mr. Gibson highlighted a very successful year for the Association and in particular, praised the efforts that had been made to engage more pro-actively in Tenant Participation.
He also gave an assurance that involving tenants in the work of the Association was a long term commitment that the Association had made by employing a permanent member of staff for this purpose.
In less than a year, the association already has two Registered Tenant Organisations, two active Tenant Forums and a Steering Group looking towards setting up a Tenant Organisation in Whitfield, Dundee.
Tenants are also active in the work of the Association as Board Members on the Association’s governing body and are involved in an Editorial Board with staff which oversees the production of a bi-monthly Tenant’s Newsletter called “Straight Talking”.
At the conclusion of the AGM, a small gift was presented to Mr. Gibson to mark the five years of his Chairmanship by the Association’s Vice- Chair and tenant member, Hazel Farquhar.
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ABERDEENSHIRE RESIDENTS TO GIVE VIEWS ON HOUSING VISION
04 July 2007
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Residents in Aberdeenshire are being asked to come up with a new slogan for Aberdeenshire Council’s housing vision statement, and win £100 in the process.
Following the release of the council vision, Serving Aberdeenshire from mountain to sea – the very best of Scotland, Aberdeenshire’s housing service is looking to develop its own statement and would like residents to propose a suitable slogan.
The statement should emphasise the positive aspects of the housing service, which may include acting to meet housing needs, providing safe and warm houses, listening to and involving tenants in the service, building strengths, working in partnership and maximising customer satisfaction.
Entries should be no more than eight words in length and must be submitted no later than Friday, July 13. The lucky winner will receive a £100 prize, in the form of vouchers for a store of their choice.
So get your thinking caps on and send your suggestions to: Tenants Partcipation Promotions Team, c/o Liz Hamilton, Tenant Participation Development Officer, Housing and Social Work, Gordon House, Blackhall Road, Inverurie, AB51 3WA. Alternatively, send your entry to
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EVH - HOUSING ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE MEMBERS REGISTER
04 July 2007
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The aim of the EVH register is to bring together individuals, who want to be involved as volunteers in housing associations/co-operatives and organisations, which are looking to recruit new volunteers to compose their management committees.
EVH is looking to attract people from a large variety of backgrounds i.e. housing, maintenance, administration, development, care, legal, finance, HR, etc.
It has achieved 30 placements of volunteers into Management Committees and still have vacancies to fill across the whole Scotland.
Volunteers: If you are interested in becoming involved in a housing association’s Management Committee, please visit www.evh.org.uk or Click Here to download the registration form and further information or contact Audrey at EVH by Email Audrey@evh.org.uk or Tel: 0141 352 7445.
Organisations: If you have vacancies on your Management Committee and would like to meet with volunteers, then please contact Audrey Decléty to discuss at 0141 352 7445.
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JOBSFLASH: KINGDOM H.A. & CONNAUGHT PARTNERSHIPS
04 July 2007
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Kingdom Housing Association is seeking a Development Manager, Fife, salary scale £39,958 - £42,793 plus business car user allowance. Applicants must be able to demonstrate relevant project management experience of the development process and have the skills and capabilities to manage a large and varied Housing Association development programme of over £20m per annum. You will be highly motivated, possess excellent networking, communication and team management skills and have experience in the areas of collaborative working, procurement, business planning and risk management. In return for the above we will offer an attractive salary and benefits package to the successful candidate which will include a contributory final salary pension scheme, car allowances and a car loan scheme. Placing on the scale will be dependent on your qualifications and experience. For an application pack please contact Kingdom Housing Association Limited, Saltire Centre, Pentland Court, Glenrothes, KY6 2DA, telephone (01592) 632577 (Voicemail). Email: kingdom@kingdomhousing.org.uk, web: www.kingdomhousing.org.uk . Closing date: July 20.
Connaught Partnerships Ltd is seeking a Tenant Liaison Officer. Due to our continuing success in securing Long Term Partnering agreements across Scotland, we are looking to recruit customer focused staff to join us. Successful applicants will be responsible for the day-to-day liaison with tenants while works are undertaken in their homes building links with the local community through social and educational events. They will need to be self-motivated, highly organised and with experience of working within a customer focused environment. We offer a competitive salary, travel allowance, company pension scheme and other fringe benefits.
Applicants must possess a clean driving licence and use of own car is necessary. For an application form or further information please contact: Kerry Condron, Customer Service Manager, Connaught Partnerships Ltd, 14 Fullarton Drive, Cambuslang, Glasgow, G32 8FA. Tel: 0141 646 3800. Web: www.connaught.plc.uk. Ref: KC/SFHA. Closing date: July 31.
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JOB OF THE WEEK: HOUSING OFFICER
05 July 2007
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Angus Housing Association is a growing Organisation with Offices in Dundee and Arbroath. During the current Financial Year, we will have a Development Programme of more than £9m and already have over 2,000 rented and owner occupied houses in management.
Working with Angus and Dundee City Councils and local Voluntary Sector organisations to provide specialist accommodation is an ever increasing part of our work. Co-ordinating Housing Support for our vulnerable tenants and supervising the support given to our over 100 Sheltered Housing tenants are also key areas of our service delivery.
We have, therefore, recently completed a minor staffing and management re-structuring and wish to recruit for the Post of:-
HOUSING OFFICER (SPECIALIST PROVISION)
EVH GRADE 8 - £30,153 TO £32,664 per annum plus Essential User Car Allowance
Working between our Arbroath and Dundee Offices, this Postholder will be the Registered Service Manager for our Housing Support Services with the Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care. All Applicants must, therefore, already hold a suitable qualification or demonstrate an ability to obtain the necessary qualifications for this purpose by Autumn 2009.
Applicants should be highly motivated and preferably have five years experience of working for a Local Authority Housing Department or a Housing Association.
If you are interested in this Post, and want to work for a forward looking Organisation committed to providing first class services, call for an Application Form and an Information Pack.
You can contact us by phoning 01241 879537, by emailing us at admin@aha.org.uk or by writing to us at Angus Housing Association Limited, 93 High Street, Arbroath, DD11 1DP.
Closing date: July 13.
Angus Housing Association Limited is committed to equality of opportunity across the entire range of our activities.
www.aha.org.uk
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TENDER OF THE WEEK: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY
05 July 2007
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A leading housing association specialising in the provision of housing & care homes for older people wishes to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced organisation to develop, prepare, carry out and report on the detailed findings of a Customer Satisfaction Survey.
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Viewpoint Housing Association Limited is a Registered Social Landlord with a stock of around 1,400 properties operating across the Lothians and Fife areas. The majority of our properties comprise sheltered housing for older people, though we also provide general needs, amenity and supported housing, as well as providing financial & management services to other organisations. We are committed to obtaining the views of our customers on our full range of services and we envisage that a sample of 50% of our tenants, care home residents and other customers will be included in the survey.
Organisations interested in providing this service will be expected to:
Demonstrate a proven track record in this field.
Demonstrate awareness of the tenant participation provisions of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001.
Provide an outline of the service areas the survey might cover and the questions that should be asked.
Provide details on how the survey would be conducted, the methodology proposed and how customer participation would be maximised.
Meet with our Tenants’ Focus Group for this project.
Illustrate how we can use as a foundation, and follow-up on the results of our previous Tenant Satisfaction Survey.
State their capacity to complete the survey and necessary reports by January 2008
Provide details of the individuals who would be involved, including their qualifications.
Provide a cost estimate for the survey.
Provide at least two customer references relating to similar projects.
If you wish to discuss our requirements and/or obtain further information you can do so by contacting: Helen Mitchell, Housing Manager or Catherine Louch, Senior Housing Officer Tel: 0131 668 4247, E-mail: helenmitchell@viewpoint.org.uk or catherine@viewpoint.org.uk.
Closing date & time for receipt of submissions: July 17, 2007 by 12.00 noon
Viewpoint Housing Association Ltd, 4 South Oswald Road, Edinburgh EH9 2HG.
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DUNFERMLINE BUILDING SOCIETY’S £7.5M DEAL WITH PERTHSHIRE H.A.
05 July 2007
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Dunfermline Building Society (DBS) is set to become the largest provider of private finance to Perthshire Housing Association with a new £7.5m funding agreement.
This is on top of existing loans of £7.5m already advanced. The new loan will be used to fund a £21m development programme of social housing across Perthshire over the next three years, including the possible construction of a state of the art biomass powered district heating scheme at Muirton, Perth to serve the 370 new homes.
To coincide with the agreement DBS presented John Kernahan, Chief Executive of Perthshire, with a cheque for £8,000 to Homeless International, a charity that John has very close ties with. The money was raised at a dinner event held at the Dunfermline Head Office.
The new funding represents the latest chapter in a close working relationship between DBS and Perthshire H.A., the first ever commercial loan to a housing association in Scotland having been made by DBS to Perthshire H.A. in 1989, almost 20 years ago.
Alan Hobbett, Senior Manager – Social Housing, at DBS, said: “We are proud to once again be able to support Perthshire H.A. with their latest development. We have a great relationship with them historically, having made history with that first loan that does not actually seem so long ago.
“We also know that our members will be happy to see us supporting environmental projects like this. Climate change is an increasingly important subject on the world agenda and it is fantastic that once again Scotland is taking the lead in new solutions and technology.”
Mr Kernahan said: “We are pleased to once again be partnering with DBS. We have had great service from them over the years and this latest agreement once again underlined why Dunfermline are the preferred lender to associations all across Scotland.
“I’d also like to thank DBS for hosting the dinner in aid of Homeless International and the attendees from the various companies and professional bodies who gave so generously on the night.”
The loan agreement has been signed and sealed by both parties and has been fully approved by Communities Scotland. DBS is the largest provider of private funding to housing associations across Scotland having secured over £600m of business to date.
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SCOTTISH H.A.s ADVERTISE TENDERS
05 July 2007
Two Scottish housing associations are advertising tenders on our sister publication, Scottish Construction Now.
Melville Housing Association is tendering for UPVC high performance windows. For more information, Click Here.
Whiteinch & Scotstoun Housing Association Ltd is seeking contractors to tender for three separate contracts. For more information, Click Here. |
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FYNE HOMES BINS IT AT NEW DEVELOPMENT
05 July 2007
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Two new bins, designed to take both litter and dog waste, have been installed at Fyne Homes’ housing development at A’ Chrannag.
The bins, one situated at the entrance to A’ Chrannag from the High Street and the other at the start of the woodland walkway, were installed after consultation with councillor, Isobel Strong, and Fyne Homes’ tenants. The footpath through the Foley woods is a public right of way and is used extensively as a short cut to the Meadows and the swimming pool or just as a pleasant walk away from busy roads.
While the vast majority of people respect this valuable amenity, tenants were becoming increasingly concerned by the irresponsible few who were damaging the environment with their thoughtless behaviour. There had even been instances of ‘fly tipping’.
As a first step in improving the area it was agreed that bins should be provided, paid for by Fyne Homes, in the belief that people would respond positively and by using the facility improve the enjoyment of the walkway for everyone. The bins will be emptied by the Council.
Alan McDougal, director of Fyne Homes Housing Association, said: “The woodland area around A’ Chrannag is very popular with locals, especially dog walkers. We have introduced the bins to make it easier for dog walkers to clean up after their pets, resulting in a cleaner and more pleasant area for locals and A’ Chrannag tenants alike.
”Maintaining the environment in which our tenants live is of utmost importance to Fyne Homes, and we hope the introduction of these new facilities will have a significant impact on the area surrounding the A’ Chrannag development.”
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LOVELL SPONSORS GOOD PRACTICE IN PARTICIPATION AWARDS
05 July 2007
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Jim Coleman presents the award to North Ayrshire Council
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Scotland’s leading affordable housing provider, Lovell has sponsored the annual Good Practice in Participation Awards 2007, organised by Tenant Participation Advisory Service Scotland, the Chartered Institute of Housing in Scotland and Communities Scotland.
The event, which was held at the Apex City Hotel, Edinburgh at the end of May, recognises the good work being undertaken by organisations throughout communities in Scotland. Awards were presented to organisations who embraced an innovative approach to participation.
Jim Coleman, partnership manager for Lovell in Scotland, presented the awards on behalf of the organisers and said: “Lovell is delighted to sponsor this event. This is a fantastic opportunity for tenant organisations to share best practice.
“From our point of view as a developer/contractor focusing entirely on affordable housing and the regeneration of communities, we use local consultation to assist us in making the right decisions for our projects.
“We aim to inspire local people to make sure the changes we initiate are just the beginning of achieving our long-term aim of leaving behind a thriving and proud community, pulling together to ensure its continued success. We can only manage our aim through good practice and tenant participation.”
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LINTELTRUST'S 2008 WALLPLANNER
05 July 2007
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LintelTrust's wallplanner for 2008 is now in the process of being designed to be ready for distribution at its Annual Launch and Review in October.
A number of organisations have agreed to take a new ad out with LintelTrust after doing so last year. However, there is still have a few spaces left, so if you are interested in donating to a good cause and letting over 1000 housing and community organisations across Scotland know of your existence, just get in touch.
Ads are held at last year's prices as a special 'early bird' reward, so snap them up soon.
Please contact Pauline Barbour at LintelTrust to have a chat and secure your space! Call 0141 567 6248 or e-mail
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NORTH LANARKSHIRE LAUNCHES NEW TENANTS PARTICIPATION CODE
05 July 2007
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A new Tenant Participation Code of Practice which encourages, develops and supports tenant participation in North Lanarkshire was approved at the first meeting of North Lanarkshire Council’s Housing and Social Work Services Committee.
The new code reflects the commitment of the council’s tenants and residents and Housing and Social Work Services to work together to achieve a high standard of tenant participation across North Lanarkshire.
The code was developed over some time and agreed through a positive working partnership which included the Coatbridge Federation of Tenants and Residents Association, North Lanarkshire Tenants and Residents Federation, the Tenants Information Service and the council’s Housing and Social Work Services.
It will develop the mutually shared principles of tenant participation and sets the framework for building on progress that has been made so far. This will ensure that there is a high standard of communication with tenants and that they have the opportunity to be effectively involved and consulted on issues that affect them.
Cllr Barry McCulloch, Committee Convener, said: “The production of this Code would not have been possible without the drive and commitment shown by the tenants’ representatives and in particular the Coatbridge Tenants’ Federation. The council is committed to encouraging and supporting tenants, residents and all service users to participate actively in all areas of our work. I believe that this Code will go some way to ensuring that all tenants and residents play a key role in the delivery of housing services.”
Robert Arthur, Chair of North Lanarkshire FTRAs, said: “We are confident that the level of commitment that has been shown in the past will only get stronger with greater opportunities for tenants and residents groups and local communities to have a say and be involved in decisions that directly affect them.”
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IRVINE NAMES STREETS WITH HELP FROM LOCAL SCHOOL
05 July 2007
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The winners with the street names
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Irvine Housing Association has announced the three street names for its new development that is currently being built at Glasgow Road, Dumfries.
The association invited children in Primary 5/6 from Lincluden Primary School, to take part in a Street Naming Competition. The children divided up into groups and each group entered several street names. All entries for the competition were then given to the Planning Department of Dumfries & Galloway Council.
Due to the number of entries for the competition, the council had a difficult job selecting the street names, but decided on two of the names that the children had suggested, Farnland Court and Lawbank Drive. The name of the third street will be Newbridge Drive. This is a continuation of the street that the new development joins onto.
Councillor McKie, who was involved in the decision process visited the building site along with the children who suggested the winning names. The Association’s Development Officer, Frank Boyle, was also on hand to show Cllr McKie and the children around the site.
Cllr McKie said: “It was good that Irvine Housing Association involved the local children in this new development. The children were clearly delighted to know that their suggestions had been put into use.”
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PARKHEAD’S YOUNG AND OLD ‘ENJOY’ FUN RUN
05 July 2007
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A hardy team of runners of all ages represented the 30 year old Parkhead Housing Association in the inaugural Glasgow East End 5k fun run.
Team PHA comprised of 21 association staff members and family with many more customers cheering them on along the 5k route.
All the team wore specially made Parkhead Housing Association Celebrating thirty years T shirts with an additional Back the Bid message referring to Glasgow’s bid for the Commonwealth Games in 2014.
Where the route passed through Parkhead Cross, the association had positioned a large banner for all the runners to pass under with a birthday and back the bid message.
Six-year-old Aarron, three-year-old Nicole, and one-year-old Jennifer, were the youngest members of the team.
Customer Services Officer at Parkhead Housing Association, Geraldine Nevans, a veteran of Marathons and Moonwalks around Britain to raise money for charity, said: “It was a brilliant and fun event which will hopefully grow bigger each year.”
Hours later sipping a cool lager shandy in the nearby Elizabeth Lodge her colleague, Caroline Morran, added: “The run was good fun but getting over the finishing line knowing the pub beckoned was even better.”
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JOB OF THE WEEK: HOUSING OFFICER
06 July 2007
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Angus Housing Association is a growing Organisation with Offices in Dundee and Arbroath. During the current Financial Year, we will have a Development Programme of more than £9m and already have over 2,000 rented and owner occupied houses in management.
Working with Angus and Dundee City Councils and local Voluntary Sector organisations to provide specialist accommodation is an ever increasing part of our work. Co-ordinating Housing Support for our vulnerable tenants and supervising the support given to our over 100 Sheltered Housing tenants are also key areas of our service delivery.
We have, therefore, recently completed a minor staffing and management re-structuring and wish to recruit for the Post of:-
HOUSING OFFICER (SPECIALIST PROVISION)
EVH GRADE 8 - £30,153 TO £32,664 per annum plus Essential User Car Allowance
Working between our Arbroath and Dundee Offices, this Postholder will be the Registered Service Manager for our Housing Support Services with the Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care. All Applicants must, therefore, already hold a suitable qualification or demonstrate an ability to obtain the necessary qualifications for this purpose by Autumn 2009.
Applicants should be highly motivated and preferably have five years experience of working for a Local Authority Housing Department or a Housing Association.
If you are interested in this Post, and want to work for a forward looking Organisation committed to providing first class services, call for an Application Form and an Information Pack.
You can contact us by phoning 01241 879537, by emailing us at admin@aha.org.uk or by writing to us at Angus Housing Association Limited, 93 High Street, Arbroath, DD11 1DP.
Closing date: July 13.
Angus Housing Association Limited is committed to equality of opportunity across the entire range of our activities.
www.aha.org.uk
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TENDER OF THE WEEK: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY
06 July 2007
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A leading housing association specialising in the provision of housing & care homes for older people wishes to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced organisation to develop, prepare, carry out and report on the detailed findings of a Customer Satisfaction Survey.
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Viewpoint Housing Association Limited is a Registered Social Landlord with a stock of around 1,400 properties operating across the Lothians and Fife areas. The majority of our properties comprise sheltered housing for older people, though we also provide general needs, amenity and supported housing, as well as providing financial & management services to other organisations. We are committed to obtaining the views of our customers on our full range of services and we envisage that a sample of 50% of our tenants, care home residents and other customers will be included in the survey.
Organisations interested in providing this service will be expected to:
Demonstrate a proven track record in this field.
Demonstrate awareness of the tenant participation provisions of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001.
Provide an outline of the service areas the survey might cover and the questions that should be asked.
Provide details on how the survey would be conducted, the methodology proposed and how customer participation would be maximised.
Meet with our Tenants’ Focus Group for this project.
Illustrate how we can use as a foundation, and follow-up on the results of our previous Tenant Satisfaction Survey.
State their capacity to complete the survey and necessary reports by January 2008
Provide details of the individuals who would be involved, including their qualifications.
Provide a cost estimate for the survey.
Provide at least two customer references relating to similar projects.
If you wish to discuss our requirements and/or obtain further information you can do so by contacting: Helen Mitchell, Housing Manager or Catherine Louch, Senior Housing Officer Tel: 0131 668 4247, E-mail: helenmitchell@viewpoint.org.uk or catherine@viewpoint.org.uk.
Closing date & time for receipt of submissions: July 17, 2007 by 12.00 noon
Viewpoint Housing Association Ltd, 4 South Oswald Road, Edinburgh EH9 2HG.
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SCOTTISH STARS URGE PUBLIC TO SUPPORT SHELTER AT FESTIVALS
06 July 2007
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Scottish star, Edith Bowman has urged T in the Park festival goers to visit Shelter Scotland's tent this weekend as the country gears up for the musical extravaganza.
The Proclaimers have also called on the public to support the call for more homes when the charity goes to the Wickerman Festival later this month.
Staff will be camped out at both Scottish festivals in a bid to spread the word that It's time to get a move in and build more homes to stem the housing crisis. Visitors can get a tasteful body tattoo to publicly show their support for the charity's campaign for 30,000 affordable homes for rent over the next three years.
Edith Bowman, top Radio One DJ, insisted everyone get along to talk to the housing and homelessness charity's crew, who will be camped out all weekend at T in the Park.
She said: "I am delighted to see Shelter at T in the Park. A home is essential to everyone's life and I urge everyone to visit Shelter's stall."
The Proclaimers said: "Ordinary families, key workers and first time buyers are faced with staggering house prices that are often out of their price range. Thousands of families are stuck in temporary accommodation after finding themselves homeless. We need to make sure that people are given real choices and that means investing in Scotland's housing future. Support Shelter Scotland by signing up to support their 30,000 homes call at the Wickerman Festival, or online."
Lisa Morfi, Shelter Scotland's Campaign Officer, said: "Get down to the Shelter tent this weekend at T in the Park to get your Shelter tattoo and show everyone that you're sticking it to bad housing and homelessness. We'll be at the Wickerman Festival as well so if you're heading along to it, then come along and show your support."
Festivalgoers can sign up to support the call at the Shelter tent throughout the musical weekends - otherwise your support can be registered online at
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CALL FOR REVIEW OF AT HOME CARE IN SCOTLAND
06 July 2007
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Free personal care in Scotland is working but announced review needs to ensure entitlements are clarified, according to research from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.
The report assesses the impact of the Scottish Executive’s free personal care policy. It shows the number of older people receiving social care services at home from local authorities rose by 10% between 2002 and 2005. But the proportion of this group receiving personal care increased by 62% over the same period.
It also shows that the increase in personal care provision cannot be explained by demographic trends or higher rates of disability. Data and interviews with social care managers showed no reduction of ‘informal’ care from relatives or friends. Instead, a pattern has been emerging where informal carers provide other types of support. The report shows how the policy is effectively increasing the amount of care an older person can receive, while also supporting carers.
Examining how local authorities have been delivering the policy, the authors found stark contrasts in budgetary control and costs. While some local authorities stayed within budget, others had overspent and cited free personal care as a significant cause. Local authority average annual spending ranged from £1,500 to £8,000 per person. But the report cites evidence that higher costs did not necessarily mean better services.
Free personal care was found to have continuing wide public support in Scotland. While 59% believe that personal care should be paid for by government, 68% would pay an extra penny in the pound income tax to finance it. However, the report raises concerns around the possibility of narrowing eligibility criteria for free care to keep costs down, and of withdrawing some care services not covered under free personal care.
Report author, David Bell said: "The announcement of an independent review is a welcome start to ensuring that the policy is working effectively. As our report shows, there are two issues that must be addressed. Firstly, there needs to be transparency about entitlements, with local authorities being clear on how they fulfil their responsibilities. Secondly, the funding of the policy needs to be adequate to prevent any ‘rationing’ or reduction of services offered."
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SMART MOVE VOLUNTEERS RIDING HIGH
06 July 2007
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The volunteers with Jack McConnell
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Young volunteers from LinkLiving’s Falkirk-based Smart Move project helped make history last weekend when they took part in the Riding to celebrate the opening of the third session of the Scottish Parliament.
The team was at the front of the 1,200-strong procession down Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to the Parliament building, where the Queen addressed MSPs.
Smart Move was selected to take their sought-after places in the procession in recognition of their work to tackle youth homelessness in Falkirk and the surrounding area. Since its launch at the end of 2005, the project has recruited 11 volunteer peer educators, all of whom have been homeless themselves, who devise and deliver educational sessions in schools and at youth events.
The volunteers are currently developing a session for young adults participating in a personal development programme in Polmont Young Offenders Institution.
Project co-ordinator, Irene Blackburn said: “The volunteers were ecstatic at being chosen to take part in the Riding and the rain on the day did nothing to dampen their spirits. We had a fantastic day and it was wonderful to see the volunteers’ commitment and hard work recognised.”
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LOVELL SPONSORS GOOD PRACTICE IN PARTICIPATION AWARDS
06 July 2007
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Jim Coleman presents the award to North Ayrshire Council
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Scotland’s leading affordable housing provider, Lovell has sponsored the annual Good Practice in Participation Awards 2007, organised by Tenant Participation Advisory Service Scotland, the Chartered Institute of Housing in Scotland and Communities Scotland.
The event, which was held at the Apex City Hotel, Edinburgh at the end of May, recognises the good work being undertaken by organisations throughout communities in Scotland. Awards were presented to organisations who embraced an innovative approach to participation.
Jim Coleman, partnership manager for Lovell in Scotland, presented the awards on behalf of the organisers and said: “Lovell is delighted to sponsor this event. This is a fantastic opportunity for tenant organisations to share best practice.
“From our point of view as a developer/contractor focusing entirely on affordable housing and the regeneration of communities, we use local consultation to assist us in making the right decisions for our projects.
“We aim to inspire local people to make sure the changes we initiate are just the beginning of achieving our long-term aim of leaving behind a thriving and proud community, pulling together to ensure its continued success. We can only manage our aim through good practice and tenant participation.”
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JOBS FLASH: EAST KIRLBRIDE H.A.
06 July 2007
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East Kilbride Housing Association is seeking a Maintenance Officer, Temporary (Part-Time), EVH Grade 7,: PA 22-25 (£25,130 - £27,644) (Pro-Rata).
Applicants should have relevant experience, a technical background and qualification, be computer literate and have excellent written and oral communication skills. They should be sensitive to the needs of our customers and have knowledge of a social housing repairs and maintenance service.
A full clean driving licence is required as is access to a car.
For application pack and further details please telephone 01355 227751, write to : 307 Edinburgh House, Town Centre, East Kilbride, G74 1LJ or email: ccallendar@ekdha.co.uk.
Closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday, July 17 with interviews being held in the week beginning Monday, July 23. The successful candidate will be required to provide a Basic Disclosure under the terms of the Police Act 1997 (part V)
East Kilbride and District Housing Association is an equal opportunities employer offering excellent conditions including 25 annual and 15 public holidays per year and a final salary pension scheme.
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LINTELTRUST PROJECT NEEDS EXEMPLAR ORGANISATIONS
06 July 2007
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LintelTrust has been awarded £10,000 from the Big Lottery's Investing in Ideas programme.
The money is help seek existing good practice, or to develop new good practice to share amongst Scottish housing associations in encouraging Black and Minority Ethnic community members to get more involved in the governance of housing associations.
A positive knock-on effect of this work will be a greater awareness amongst associations about the particular housing needs of different groups of people who live in their areas.
If you are a housing association that has already undertaken work on this issue that you would like to share with others, or if you would like to develop such good practice, please get in touch. If you are a community organisation seeking more information, also, please get in touch.
LintelTrust and its initial partners, (PATH (Scotland); Equalities.com; SFHA; Southside Housing Association; Scottish Refugee Council; GHA; EVH; and Dunedin Canmore Housing Association) look forward to hearing from you soon.
If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Pauline Barbour at LintelTrust to have an initial chat about this new project. Call 0141 567 6248 or 0141 332 8113 or e-mail linteltrust@sfha.co.uk to find out more.
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ALLOA COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE MANAGER RETIRES AFTER 23 YEARS
06 July 2007
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Tony Cassidy, General Manager of Alloa Community Enterprises (ACE) has stepped down after 23 years in charge of the award winning company based in Alloa, Clackmannanshire.
He was the first employee of the company in 1984 when the focus was simply on building a furniture project to provide low cost furniture to people disadvantaged in the local community.
Since then the organisation has grown to become one of Scotland’s foremost recycling companies, employing 30 people and delivering recycling services for glass, paper, cardboard and cans across four local authority areas in central Scotland.
After a fact-finding mission to Australia in 2001, Mr Cassidy was instrumental in establishing a multi-material kerbside collection in Clackmannanshire, which now plays a pivotal role in making Clackmannanshire Council the best performing council in Scotland with a recycling rate in excess of 40%.
He was also one of the key players in the formation of the Community Recycling Network for Scotland in 2002.
Iain Gulland, Network Director of CRNS, said: “Tony has been the driving force behind the success of ACE over the past 20 plus years. The organisation stands out in our sector in terms of achievements and the fact that it is first and foremost a business.
“Tony has also gone abroad to learn from others and see what can be replicated here in Scotland, which shows that he has never wanted to stand still. I know that Tony’s work at ACE has inspired others in our sector to develop their own local initiatives. I wish him all the best for the future.”
ACE were awarded the UK’s Best Community Recycling Award in 2001.
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HOUSING NEWS: INNOVATION ROUND UP
06 July 2007
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NEWS 
