future voice spring 2013 issue 23
DESCRIPTION
The Magazine for Midland Heart's supported housing customers. In This Issue -TRANSCRIPT
FutureVOICE
Page 27
Hitting the right note
Page 12
Improve your prospects at skills session
Page 15
Volunteering is the way forward
The magazine for Midland Heart’s supported housing customers
Spring 2013
Customers get growingpage 16 - 17
ContentsRough sleepers update 4 & 5
Welfare Reforms 6 – 8
Boosting employment prospects 9 – 15
St Eugene’s celebrations 18
Dear Fay 20
Picture Perfect competition 22
Creative talents 26
Making music 27
Viewpoint 29 -30
Hello and welcome to the Issue 23 of Future Voice, the magazine for and about Midland Heart’s Care and Support customers.
A big thank you to everyone who has submitted stories and ideas for this issue – it’s your input that makes a difference.
This time we focus on two key issues which are so important to all our readers, the new Welfare Reforms and employment and skills.
On pages 6 - 8 we take a look at how the Welfare Reforms may affect you and provide information about where you can go for more help and support.
Midland Heart has made the employment and skills of customers a corporate priority for 2012-2013 so on pages 9 to15 we take a look at some of the new initiatives to help customers into education, training and employment.
Also inside these pages are articles about new projects to help get rough sleepers off the streets, birthday celebrations at St Eugene’s and an update on new developments at the Hereford service.
Of course there’s the regular news from around the schemes and a final push for entries for the first Future Voice photography competition. There are £50 vouchers up for grabs in each of the two categories… so make sure you enter to be in with a chance!
Please keep your stories and ideas coming in. We couldn’t put Future Voice together without your help.
Sara BeamandManaging Director, Care & Support
get involved
Fancy joining the Editorial Board – everyone’s welcomeWe enjoyed lively meetings at James Bagnall Foyer in West Bromwich and Leicester’s Heathfield House in February. The customers talked about their hopes for the future, unemployment and their uncertainty about the Welfare Reforms.
“I hope to start a hair and beauty course at West Sandwell College in September. It’s a one year course which leads on to an apprenticeship. I am completing a National Diploma in Business at the moment, which will come in useful if I open my own salon one day.I like living here, being independent and doing my own thing. Everyone has been friendly and my support worker has helped me to apply for the college course.”Sidra Bibi, James Bagnall Foyer
“I am a member of Streetlife Action Group in Leicester which formed to protest against proposed City Council changes to provision of homeless services. The cuts will mean the loss of 200 hostel beds for vulnerable people and three hostels in
Get in touchWe’ve made it even easier for you to get in touch with the Future Voice editorial team with the launch of our new email address.Readers can now directly email Nigel and Catherine from Bluestation, the agency which produces the magazine.
So if you have news, views, a question for our Agony Aunt Fay, an issue you feel we should cover, or would like to get involved… just drop us a line.All emails will be treated confidentially and we will reply to every email sent in.
the city centre. There aren’t enough hostel places now and it will be even worse if the number of beds are cut.”Vinnie Karer, Heathfield House(Find out more on the Streetlife Action GROUP page on Facebook)
“I can’t get a job so I’ve been doing voluntary work for Matt’s Mission, a small Birmingham charity which raises money to help terminally ill children by paying for holidays to Lapland, that sort of thing. I enjoy the work and I’ve been able to meet some of the children the charity has helped.We’re organising a large group of people to go on
a 26-mile sponsored walk this summer, and I’m hoping that I can get lots of people from Midland Heart involved.”Chris Greaseley, James Bagnall FoyerYou can learn more about Matt’s Mission by going to www.mattsmission.co.uk
“I’ve been here since September. It’s good and the rooms are nice. I’m hoping to move on soon.”Chris Babbington (pictured left), James Bagnall Foyer
How to join the editorial board
Our Editorial Board is an ever-changing mix of customers and staff who make sure Future Voice is all about our customers and the issues that you want to read about. If you’d like to come along and see for yourself what it’s all about, speak to your scheme manager or support worker or email us at [email protected] you’d like the Future Voice team to visit your scheme… let us know.
32
4 5
rough sleepers
Street Link is a website and telephone service which enables people to alert authorities in England if they are concerned about someone sleeping rough.Once the member of public provides details, the information is sent to the relevant local authority so steps can be taken to ensure
rough sleepers are connected to local services and the support available to them. Rough sleepers can also contact the service if they wish to receive support.In the few weeks since its launch Streetlink has been contacted over 4,000 times by the public, far exceeding initial expectations.
Concerned about a homeless person? Contact Street Link
If you’re concerned about someone sleeping rough, contact
Street Link through its website at www.streetlink.org or
Call: 0300 500 0914
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TellStreetLink
A new service is working with the general public to connect rough sleepers to the support available to them.
There have been celebrations all round at the innovative Rough Sleepers Personalisation project.Midland Heart has been awarded £170,940 to help get West Midlands’ rough sleepers off the streets, into secure accommodation and back on their feet.The funding follows the launch of StreetLink (see opposite) and will help Midland Heart deliver the Streetlink promise to provide the first step towards connecting rough sleepers with the support available to them.Seventy people are estimated to be
sleeping rough on any one night in towns and cities across the West Midlands and the area is one of 22 throughout the country to benefit from a grant to help ensure that no-one spends a second night on the street.Welcoming the grant, Chris Munday, who was Managing Director for care and support at Midland Heart at the time, said: “This grant will fund a really important project enabling us to help entrenched rough sleepers to break out of a cycle of homelessness and into sustained accommodation.”
New funding to help end rough sleeping
More good news for Rough Sleepers’ teamThe excellent work carried out by the team has been recognised by Homeless Link, a membership body for organisations and individuals working with homeless people around England.It acknowledged and rewarded the project’s good practice by awarding a Homeless Transition Fund Grant. The funding will enable the team to continue working with both entrenched rough sleepers and those who are new to the streets to meet the Government’s aim of there being No Second Night Out.To date the Rough Sleepers team has assisted 245 customers access accommodation through Cold Weather Provision, since 28 October 2013. This provision is put in place when the temperature drops below freezing and customers are accommodated in communal lounge areas within Midland Heart hostels. The Salvation Army also offers 10 seats in its communal lounge. Amanda Nicklin said: “This work has undoubtedly helped save the lives of our most vulnerable customers living on the streets of Birmingham.” Amanda Nicklin
6 7
welfare reforms
Benefit rules are changingBut don’t panic, we’re here to helpIf you are of working age (under 61) and receive Housing Benefit to pay your rent or working age benefits there are major changes being phased in this year which will affect you.It’s important that you understand what’s happening so you can get the help and support you need to make the right decisions about your future.
Under Occupancy – From April 2013
If you are aged under 61 as of 5 October 2012 and have a ‘spare’ bedroom/s your Housing Benefit may be reduced. The good news is that the vast majority of Midland Heart Care & Support customers live in Exempt Accommodation because Midland Heart is their landlord and provides you with care, support or supervision. Those affected have been contacted by us directly.
Council Tax Benefit – April 2013
If you are of working age and claim Council Tax Benefit you need to be aware that this may be reduced from April 2013. Each council will decide how much Council Tax Benefit it gives and this may mean that you have to contribute to paying your Council Tax to make up the shortfall. Find out what your council is doing.
Benefit Cap – Commences 15 July 2013
The government is putting a cap on the overall amount of benefits a couple or single person can receive. Again, very few customers within Midland Heart Care & Support are likely to be affected by this change but we are working to identify and contact those customers who will be impacted.
Universal Credit – Gradual roll-out from October 2013
The new single monthly payment called Universal Credit will combine benefits including Income Support, Income Based Job Seekers Allowance, Income based Employment Support Allowance, Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit and Housing Benefit. The change will affect everyone who claims a benefit who is aged from 16 to 61, even people who only get a small amount of Housing Benefit. Your Housing Benefit will be included within the Universal Credit payment (unless you live in ‘Exempt Accommodation’), even if you currently have this paid directly to Midland Heart. It means that it will be your responsibility to pay your rent to Midland Heart otherwise you could risk losing your home.
Universal Credit will be paid in arrears as a single monthly payment, meaning there will be a five week gap in receiving your benefits.If you live in ‘Exempt Accommodation’ this will be true of your Universal Credit payment for your living costs, but your rent will be paid direct to Midland Heart in the same way as Housing Benefit is now.
What to do next
Find out how you will be affected. • Get online. You must make your
Universal Credit claim on-line - to do this you will need basic IT-skills, access to the internet and an email address.
• Set up a Bank Account. To receive Universal Credit you will need a basic bank account, one where you can have benefits paid into and can access your money through services like Direct Debit, debit cards, standing orders and cash machines.
• Consider what other steps you need to take – moving home; make plans as to where you might move to; get help in getting your money in order, for instance tackling debt; looking for routes into employment.
Don’t panic!Midland Heart and many other organisations are there to help. Talk to your Support Worker or other member of staff, or contact one of the organisations below:• For the latest information from
Midland Heart check out our website www.midlandheart.org.uk/welfarereform
• Check you’re getting the right benefits and income – the website Turn2Us has useful information. www.turn2us.org.uk
• Contact your local council for information on extra help through discretionary housing payments and local welfare provision, as well as information on whether Council Tax Benefit changes will affect you.
• Use a budget planner. The money advice service www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk provides useful advice on how to do this.
• The housing charity Shelter provides confidential housing, welfare benefits and debt advice through a network of advice services. Telephone advice helpline 0808 800 4444.
• The Directgov website also provides information on public services in one place, including up to date information on the housing benefit changes.
• Citizen’s Advice Bureau 08444 111 444 or www.citizensadvice.org.uk
• Your local Job Centre Plus office 0800 055 6688
• Household Cap Helpline 0845 605 7064
• Speak to your council benefits team.
continued....
...from previous page
8 9
welfare reforms employment and skills
Future Voice went out and about to hear what you think about the Welfare Reforms which started to take effect in April.We spoke to customers at James Bagnall Foyer in West Bromwich and Leicester’s Heathfield House to listen to their concerns before the changes were made.This is what they said…
Midland Heart has made the employment and skills of customers a corporate priority for 2012-2013.This is particularly important at the moment with Welfare Reforms and is reflected in our Building Prospects strategy which aims:• To work with schools in our communities
to develop routes for pupils to enter the Housing and Care sector
• To support social enterprises that create employment and skills opportunities
• To have by March 2016, at least 10 per cent of our staff who are, or have been customers of Midland Heart
• To actively encourage and support customers to set up their own businesses from home
• To keep developing the Back on Track programme, and apprenticeships for our customers
Welfare Reforms – we find out what you think
OUR
To support our customers in building new skills and finding employment Midland Heart has a number of existing and new opportunities that are available to you:
Employment and Skills days – We ran our first sessions in April in Birmingham and plan to run more events in Coventry, Leicester, Wolverhampton and Stoke.Customers receive guidance on how to apply for Midland Heart jobs, and sign up for additional offers of support.
Our in-house training team is on hand to provide training and guidance on Assertiveness, Customer Service, Effective Letter Writing and much, much more.
What kind of jobs?Vacancies at Midland Heart typically include a variety of roles across our Care & Support services. These areas include: Learning Disabilities, Mental Health, Older Peoples Services, Homeless Services, Administrators and Call Centre Staff.
The Skills Club - a weekly session giving advice and support, targeting Midland Heart customers in the Snow Hill area of Birmingham on Wednesday nights 5pm-7pm. Turn to page 12 for the full story and customer comments.
YOURemployment and skillsare
priority
A number of the government’s Welfare Reforms started to take effect in April and could affect you and the way you pay your rent. Hopefully by now you understand how these changes may affect you.Midland Heart has produced a six-minute video giving more information in an easy-to-understand format.You can find it online at: www.midlandheart.org.uk/welfarereform
Video sheds more light on Welfare Reforms
“People haven’t a clue about how they are going to be affected.”James Devesey, Heathfield House, Leicester
“I’m going to struggle like everyone else.”
Luke DeLaunay, James Bagnall Foyer
“I’m not very good at budgeting and I buy what I need when I have the money. When I lived at my Mum’s I used to shop around but I don’t any more. I am anxious about how the reforms will affect me.”Kayleigh Billington, James Bagnall Foyer
“I’m concerned about what’s going to happen.
No-one wants their benefits to be cut and a lot
of people in Leicester will be affected.”
Vinnie Karer, Heathfield House, Leicester
“We know roughly how
things are going to work
but not on an individual
basis. If you can’t budget
it will be a real struggle to
make the money last. I’m
not too bad at budgeting
but it will be a challenge,
particularly if you are an addict and are
likely to spend all your money as soon as
you get it.”
Chris Greasley, James Bagnall Foyer
10 11
employment and skills
According to government figures, unemployment fell to 2.49 million at the end of 2012.But jobs are still scarce and competition for vacancies is fierce, as many of our customers have experienced for themselves.We spoke to Future Voice readers to find out their experiences of job hunting.
Apprentice Beth learns new skillsMidland Heart’s Mental Health services team has welcomed a new apprentice to its ranks.Beth McCreedy, who had previously worked as a support worker in a mental health and learning disabilities care home, joined the team at Bradford Street in her new role as business administrator.“Midland Heart’s apprenticeship scheme is really good because it gives me the chance to do my NVQ Level 2 in Business Administration as well as getting really good work experience.“Although I’m not guaranteed a job at the end of my 12 months, if there is an opening, I am guaranteed an interview, so I will keep my fingers crossed.“I have settled into the job really quickly. Everyone has been very friendly and helpful and I’m really enjoying myself.”
Next time we will catch up with Sian Richards Apprentice with the Customer Involvement Team.
Start your journey
with Midland
HeartBecoming a member of the
Midland Heart staff team could
be the start of your brand new
life.
Take the first step by looking
on the Midland Heart website
www.midlandheart.org.uk/
jobsandcareers for current
opportunities.
You won’t look back!
Midland Heart is already well on the way to meeting its target of 10 per cent of staff who are, or have been customers of Midland Heart.
Emma’s story
Emma*, a former Midland Heart customer has been a member of the Income Recovery Team for the past nine years, supporting customers who are facing problems with their debts – including rent arrears. Emma said: “It really helps to understand the issues from the customer’s point of view and as a customer myself I can appreciate the frustrations and issues people face and offer sympathetic advice.”* name changed
“I don’t think businesses want to employ English people to do the more low paid jobs because they think we are too proud. They like to employ eastern Europeans because they think that they will do anything, however degrading the job is, because they are desperate to earn money and will put in one hundred per cent effort.”Raj Giles, Heathfield House
“I used to want to work in graphic design because I really enjoy it and did well in my Graphic Design and Product Design A Levels. But at the moment I’m just trying to get a job doing anything to earn some money and get on with my life.”Ben Mason, James Bagnall Foyer
“I’ve applied for lots of jobs. One of the worst things is not hearing back. I hope I do find a job because I like working and my family treat me with more respect when I am in work. But I am 53 now and the jobs seem to go to the young people.”
Vinnie Karer, Heathfield House
“I’ve been doing volunteering work recently because I can’t get a job and I like to keep busy. I’ve been unemployed for six months. There just isn’t much work out there.” Chris Greasley, James Bagnall Foyer(Read more about Chris’s voluntary work with Matt’s Mission on page 2)
“I went for a dish washing job and was told that at 49 I was ‘too old’. Businesses can pay a young person much less. I’ve applied for lots of jobs, including work at supermarkets, and they’ve said that I’m over-qualified. I just need a chance to prove myself.”Francisco Barros, Heathfield House
“The minimum wage is still very low for the under 21s and the Job Centre isn’t any help. They just say ‘find a job’. I’m 20 and I think it is much harder to get a job without any experience. I don’t want to be on benefits all my life.”James Devesey, Heathfield House.
Gis a job, I can do that
12
employment and skills
A new Birmingham skills club is helping Midland Heart customers across the Birmingham area to improve their employment prospects.The club, officially named the Employment, Skills and Networking Group, meets every Wednesday, 5 – 7pm at The Snow Hill in the city centre.Launched in January, the group gives customers the opportunity to meet Midland Heart staff from around the organisation to learn more about different areas of work.The staff also provide help and support with job searches, C.V. writing, application forms and interview technique to enhance
the customers’ opportunities.Information and help is also offered to those looking to return to education or are keen to do voluntary work.Future Voice spoke to Snow Hill support worker Duane Derry five weeks after the club’s launch.He said: “It’s early days but the sessions have been well attended
Improve your prospects at new skills sessions
and already two customers have been interviewed for positions. They weren’t successful but the interview practice is always good experience.“We’re very pleased with the way the sessions are going and hope more customers from across Midland Heart come along.”
13
Duane Derry
14 15
Signing up as a Midland Heart volunteer has enabled dozens of customers to gain valuable experience and move into employment, with some taking up positions within Midland Heart.Our volunteers become part of a special community where they feel valued and find their role motivating and fulfilling, as well as giving them a real sense of achievement.Volunteer vacancies are advertised on the Midland Heart website under the Jobs and Careers section. The Midland Heart volunteer coordinator is Katiya Nunes, a former customer who got into employment after being taken on as a Midland Heart apprentice.She said: “There are so many volunteering opportunities within Midland Heart in lots of different fields from arts and crafts and IT to gardening and music.“Some of the best support comes from people who have had difficult life experiences but have been able to help themselves and can now help others.”
The Venture volunteering projectIf you are interested in gaining some hands on work experience as a Volunteer Support Worker then the Venture Project could be for you. Venture is a voluntary programme lasting 3 months with a possibility of extending to 6 months. It involves volunteering for up to 16 hours per week over 2 days. It is suitable for people seeking work, and who are interested in a career as a Support Worker.
If successful you will be placed to volunteer within a Midland Heart Homelessness
Scheme in Birmingham.
Interested in volunteering?Contact Katiya Nunes
Volunteer Coordinator on 0845 850 1020 ext. 6344 or 07876475854.
We will be shortly announcing details of a new Venture Programme to commence June 2013.
Read more about Katiya’s role in the next issue of Future Voice.
Volunteering… your first step into a brighter future
New ambassadors join the teamA new intake of customer ambassadors have been trained in the skills they need for their new roles.The group of ten customers, from various services received confidence training to help them meet and greet new people, and were taught the skills they need to be a successful interviewer. Other parts of the two-day training were the recruitment of staff, Peer Quality Audits and Safeguarding Awareness. Customer Dave Hayes from Victoria Court said: “My expectations were that the two days would be pretty boring but I was wrong; it was great and I soon felt confident within the group and I enjoyed meeting new people from different services.”
An ambassadors role
Becoming a customer ambassador for Midland Heart opens many doors of opportunity.As well as getting out and about and meeting new people, you can become involved with how Midland Heart operates… and make a real difference.
Peter’s storySouth Road volunteer Peter Soley has been on the Venture programme since October 2012. Here he talks about his experiences.“I had been a customer at Gibbs Road on two occasions and I was very thankful for the help I was getting and I wanted to do something to repay that support.“I read in Future Voice about James Kendrick, a fellow customer at Gibbs Road who became a volunteer, and it spurred me on to apply.“I work two days a week as a support worker and I feel that my age and experience really helps in this job. I do everything from talking to customers to paperwork and cleaning rooms.“I really enjoy it and while I’m unemployed I have the time to give something back. I’m a plumber by trade but even though there are jobs out there, hundreds of people are applying for them.Now I’d like to continue in my role as a support worker so I’ll be looking for a job once my six months on the Venture programme has finished.”
Check Miller, one of our recent Ambassadors
employment and skills
17
The Big DigThe Big Dig Day in March saw hundreds of people across the country head to their community garden to get growing.
Digging for victory
Getting fruity at St Eugene’sSpring to Life held its first gardening workshop at St Eugene’s last month to teach customers how to graft fruit trees on to rootstock.The session, held in the building atrium area, saw customers trying this popular method of propagating fruit trees for themselves.Geoff Lowe, support worker at St Eugene’s, said: “It was a good session. Customer involvement activities like this are so important for increasing our customer’s well-being and building confidence.”
Green fingered gardeners from around Midland Heart got together on 20 March to take part in a nationwide Big Dig event.Staff and customers worked at the Midland Heart Uplands allotment in Handsworth, Birmingham which is now being run by community interest company, Spring to Life.
Helping services spring to lifeSeveral of Midland Heart’s Mental Health and Learning Disability service schemes are benefitting from the new link up with Spring to Life which runs several community gardening projects across Birmingham.Staff from the organisation have been working with customers to raise awareness of healthy eating and the power of growing your own fruit and veg.Liz Wright, an outdoor and movement specialist with the company, said Spring to Life’s work has begun in the kitchen, cooking fresh, healthy and nutritious meals with customers.“Once people can enjoy the sensory approach to food, how it smells, looks and tastes, then we can introduce the idea of growing food.”At Wellington Road the team hopes to plant a sensory garden where customers, many of whom have experienced emotional trauma, can relax and enjoy the sights and scents.Liz added: “We’re really pleased to be involved with Midland Heart and have already done lots of positive work with its mental health service customers.”
18 19
news round-up
Customers at Helen Dixon House enjoyed a relaxing pampering afternoon to beat the winter blues with manicures, fancy nail design and gift bags. The treat was provided by staff and clients of Platform 51, a charity which supports girls and women as they take control of their lives.The charity’s clients have spent time on probation and have been working hard to secure a qualification in nail care and a certificate in Health and Safety. They put their experience into good practice at Helen Dixon House and the customers were delighted with their glamorous nails and goodie bags.
Richmond House customers had frying pans at the ready to celebrate Shrove Tuesday.For many it was their first pancake since childhood… and they tasted as good as they remembered.Support worker Hannah Warwick said: “A big thank you to all staff and customers who participated especially Gary, Adrian and Elizabeth, who were the top chefs of the event.”
Healthy ideas for Hanwood menCustomers at Hanwood House got 2013 off to a positive start thanks to a new group which discusses men’s health and well-being.So far 10 men have got involved with the meetings, held on the second Thursday of every month.Team leader Trevor Nelson said: “The sessions are going really well and we’ve covered a lot of topics including looking after your heart, healthy, eating, diet and exercise.”
The annual St Patrick’s Day festivities got into full swing at St Eugene’s Court in Digbeth which was also celebrating its 10 year anniversary.Around 70 people gathered at the Birmingham service for formerly homeless men to enjoy a lively afternoon with Irish music and traditional Irish food.St Eugene’s Court then received a special blessing from Reverend Patrick Browne of St Mary’s Church. Many former customers, friends and partners attended to mark the day.
The service opened in 2003 to respond to the very local needs of the Irish community in Digbeth, offering 44 self-contained homes and support to men aged 45 years and over. Since then the service has supported hundreds of men - offering them somewhere to live and enjoy life with independence.
Flippin’ good fun
All looking good at Helen Dixon
Double delight in Digbeth
Picture
perfect
20 21
Competition
We know many Future Voice readers are keen photographers so here’s your chance to show off your talents.Images must be taken by you in the last six months or before the closing date of 30 August 2013.You can enter one image in each of the following categories
1. All about me.2. In the community
The entries will be judged by a panel of Future Voice readers and the results published in the Winter 2013 edition.
To enter:You can email your entries to: [email protected]
or post them to:Photography Competition 2013, Future Voice magazine, Midland Heart, 20 Bath Row, Birmingham B15 1LZ
Dear Fay,
My friend is being evicted from his home because of rent arrears. What are the options open to him now?
Firstly thanks for your question.
The starting point for your friend will be to speak to the landlord and see about arranging a payment plan to reduce these arrears, if there is not a plan in place already.If after starting a payment plan the evection still stands, they will need to - depending on their age - either go to The Homeless Service Centre (Midland Heart) which is for people over the age of 25, or to St Basil’s which works with under 25s.These services will be able to support them in finding other accommodation and by putting some support in place to help them develop more
independent living skills such as budgeting and payment plans to ensure that the debts are being reduced.Other support includes resettlement, looking into long-term accommodation through the many housing associations out there (and Birmingham City Council) but this depends on what support the customer requires. There are lots of services which can help with reducing debt. Once the rent arrears are reduced your friend will be able to move forward.I hope this has given you some idea of what to do, I hope everything works out for your friend.Best wishesFay
Dear Fay
A problem shared...
If you have a problem you need help solving, write in to our very own agony aunt, Fay. The topic can be about anything you like, including relationships.If your letter is suitable for publishing, she will respond in her own inimitable style.Send your letter to: Fay, Future Voice magazine, Midland Heart, 44 Bradford Street, Digbeth, Birmingham. B5 6HX or email her at: [email protected] Your letter/email will be treated in the strictest confidence but please include your name. All letters will be published anonymously.
Our agony aunt Fay has managed to pack a lot in to her life including 18 months as a customer at the Midland Heart Foyer.
She seized the opportunity to become an apprentice and after working across two services, she was offered a full-time position as support worker at the Midland Heart Foyer. Fay now works at The Snow Hill.
agony aunt
Q
A
Make sure you enter our first ever photography competition
The prizesThere are £50 vouchers up for grabs in each of the two categories… so make sure you enter to be in with a chance!
22 23
hereford - update
Seven customers with learning disabilities will have their lives transformed when they cross the threshold into their new homes.The new Southbank Close development is nearing completion and staff hope customers will be able to move in by the beginning of June.The seven new self-contained bungalows, which will be managed by Midland Heart, will enable customers to live more independent lives.Andrea Hackley, Housing Move on Service Manager in Hereford, said: “Everyone is so excited that the building work is almost complete.“My team has been working with the Learning Disability service to identify people within the
county who may be suitable for this type of supported accommodation.“Most of the customers will previously have lived at home with elderly parents and are now looking to increase their independence.“These bungalows will transform lives and will enable customers to achieve dreams and aspirations. “As well as the on-site support offered by Midland Heart, including sleep-in staff, the customers will be able to choose the provider of their own support via personal budgets inline with the personalisation agenda.”Next time we’ll meet some of the new residents of the Southbank Close bungalows and find out how they are enjoying living more independently.
awards
Midland Heart scoops Business of the Year awardCongratulations go to Midland Heart in Hereford which won the Business/Company award from the Herefordshire Learning Disability Trust.Angela Slater from the Housing Move on Service in Hereford was delighted to receive the award for the work she has done with young adults from Barrs Court School for children who have learning disabilities.She has worked extensively with younger adults and their families to give them informed accommodation options for the future.The Herefordshire Learning Disability Trust aims to ‘Achieve a Herefordshire community that is inclusive, accessible, open and welcoming towards children and adults who have learning disabilities and their families’.The HLDT is a working partnership of dedicated people who are making things happen for the better on behalf of learning disabled children/adults and their families.A spokesperson for HLDT said: “Angela was presented with an HLDT medal and certificate in recognition of her enthusiastic, timely and effective support in assisting young learning disabled people move into their own accommodation. “Her prompt, positive and engaging responses to recent referrals have helped enormously to give vulnerable young people the confidence to believe that independent living is within their grasp.”
Lifeline networks shortlisted for top care awardMidland Heart and partner Tyze Personal Networks have been shortlisted in the final of the prestigious Independent Specialist Care Awards for the innovative Tyze project, which throws a lifeline of support to customers with a range of care needs.Tyze allows family, friends and care and health professionals to keep in touch through personal and secure online networks.Midland Heart has been working with Tyze for over a year to apply and develop the model in a UK health and social care setting.Ruth Cooke, Chief Executive Officer for Midland Heart said: “We are thrilled that Tyze has been shortlisted for the award. It is a fantastic project, which has been really well received by our customers.”
We are pleased to announce that Midland Heart has been granted an additional two years contract to deliver Learning
Disability services in Herefordshire. Now we are looking at how we can ensure we continue to deliver good quality services and maximise the opportunities for our customers; supporting them to achieve more outcomes and enhance independence.
As part of our review, we have restructured our services into three distinct areas each offering a range of services; residential care, domiciliary care and supporting people in their own homes. Each area will have a Locality Manager, who will take overall responsibility for all aspects of service delivery in their locality, supported by two Team Leaders and a Senior Support Worker. Recruitment of the Locality Managers is well underway and in the next edition of Future Voice we will update you on our progress and further developments.
Independent living dreams come true for seven customers
Herefordshire services updateBy Emma Main, Operational Manager Learning Disability
Awards continued overleaf...
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youth
Organisations from across Birmingham have pledged to address the region’s youth unemployment problem through supporting local apprenticeship programmes encouraging young people into work.More than 70 groups attended a partnership event hosted by Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC) and Midland Heart to outline plans on how businesses can play an active part in reducing unemployment levels.Since the riots in August 2011, Midland Heart has been working with West Midlands Police, the youth offending service and other organisations to deliver the ‘Back on Track’ programme. “The programme specifically focuses on vulnerable young people in Birmingham who had either taken part in, or were at risk of involvement in anti-social behaviour,” said Ruth Cooke, Chief Executive Officer at Midland Heart.“During the past year we have employed 21 apprentices all of whom have grown in confidence and see a bright future.”
Snow Hill wins top awardThe Snow Hill has triumphed by scooping a top national award for the Most Innovative Supported Housing Scheme.The excellent work done at the Birmingham scheme, which was re-opened following an extensive refurbishment in 2012, was recognised at the prestigious 2013 Housing Innovation Awards.The Snow Hill, a new and inspiring model of housing, responds to current challenges through a more holistic approach to homeless services; a giant leap away from institutional hostels. With a mixed community of 92 studio and bedroom apartments and onsite support services, customers are supported to increase their independence, skills and employment options. David Kinnair, Inclusion Services Manager, said: “For the Snow Hill to be recognised as the most innovative supported or sheltered service in the country is a fantastic achievement and such an honour. “This has been made possible by the people behind the scenes within design and development and the staff we have on the front line. “The staff at Snow Hill have made it a continuing success and we are seeing some really positive outcomes in relation to customers involved in education training and employment.”He added: “The innovative concept behind the Snow Hill has enabled staff to work in this way and make Snow Hill a sought after place to live in Birmingham.”
awards continued
Tackling youth
unemploymentKadir GaffarKadir, 19, joined the Back on Track programme as apprentice support worker at Zambesi in Sparkbrook in June 2012 and says he hasn’t looked back.“I feel very lucky,” he said. “I really enjoy the work and I think I’m doing well.“There was a lot to learn but I feel more confident now and I feel that I’m doing something rewarding.”Kadir added: “I’ve grown up because I’ve taken on more responsibility and my family are proud of what I’m doing.“I’ve completed by NVQ Level 2 and I’m working towards my Level 3.”
Case studiesJesse BowenJesse also joined Back on Track last June working at Lozells Road as an apprentice support worker and says he has “enjoyed the experience.”Now he says his 12-month apprenticeship will stand him in good stead when he looks for a full-time position this summer.“The work was completely new to me but I have enjoyed the experience and support work is something I’d like to continue with.“Every day is different because we meet new people and they all have different problems they need help with. I do feel like I’ve achieved something too.”Jesse, who is close to completing his NVQ Level 2 added: “I would like to work for Midland Heart at the end of my apprenticeship so I hope there will be a suitable vacancy I can apply for.”
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talents
Smiles all round on Blue Monday
Talented artist Harvinder Kanth feels great comfort when she settles into her creative world.Harvinder, a customer at Wolverhampton Mental Health & Complex Needs Service, produces beautiful drawings to express her inner thoughts before capturing their meaning in words.She agreed to share two pieces of her work with Future Voice.
The Inner Person“A human being is a sensory being. Open your eyes and perceive with your inner mind.”
Dream Catcher“ My picture highlights the fantasy world where many people detach from reality and retreat into a world inside their mind where the deepest and truest desires are conceived.”
The Snow Hill’s music group is going from strength to strength thanks to the efforts of dedicated customer Ian Muson.Ian, who now lives in the private section of Snow Hill, was so happy with the service he received at The Snow Hill that he decided to give something back.“I always enjoy gathering people together who love music and share our aspirations, so I took the initiative and spoke to Customer Involvement about my idea,” he explained.“My aim is to give an opportunity to those with limited funds to express themselves and boost their self-esteem which in turn will help them get back to work or self-employment. In addition, they may gain access to the music industry.”Customers from several schemes in the area come together and it proved so successful that Ian is now looking to organise sub-groups for reggae, soul, acoustic
and rock.He added: “We already have a full band (drums, guitar,
bass and keyboard) which can perform in all the above styles
and we’ll be booking a studio for rehearsals where signers or MCs are welcome to join.”The music group is open to all Midland Heart customers. Everyone who loves music and would like to contribute in any way (not just performing) can turn up; no booking in advance is required yet. Refreshments are available and some equipment is provided, although it is best to bring your own if possible.
The third Monday in January is the day the media love to call Blue Monday, “the most depressing day of the year”.But it was all smiles at Lichfield House as the staff team worked hard to keep spirits high.Their special Beat Blue Monday event – on 21 January – included a board where customers could write what made them cheerful. They were also asked to tell jokes…if the staff laughed
they were rewarded instantly with a sweet.Customers were also encouraged to get involved at a cooking session, using the ultimate feel good food – chocolate.After tucking into their handiwork – chocolate brownies – customers later enjoyed a comforting pasta dish and quiz.Life Skills worker Pascale Pug said: “It was a very enjoyable day with lots of laughter and high spirits.”
Creative talent
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Music group hits the right note
Workshop brings poetic inspirationCustomers and staff from Helen Dixon House got into a creative mood at a recent poetry workshop.The group at the Moseley-based service began their session by listening to a selection of poems before thinking about how to write their own.They finished their session by working together to pen ‘Snow’, inspired by the fresh falls that day.
SnowThe snow looks nice when it’s
just fallen,No footprints.Trees and houses look big
and bright.
See the kids playing in the
snow,Pulling sledges, having fun,
Throwing snowballs, a snow
fight.
Snow isn’t happy for me.
I panic.I can’t get to college, to work.
I can’t get home, trudging
home,Too far to walk.
Viewpoint
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viewpoint
To tie in with our special section on employment, this issue our roving reports asked customers: What are your experiences and thoughts about the service provided by your local Job Centre’.This is what they said…
“I’ve been to the Job Centre but they pass you from one person to another. They don’t help you… full stop. They tell you to look online for all the jobs they have, but it isn’t easy to get access to a computer. If you make a complaint you never receive an answer. They never found me a job.”James Devesey, Heathfield House
“I am made to feel like a National Insurance number.”Tom L, Eagle House, Stafford
“The service can vary. My personal advisor is really good although if I have to see someone else, I am just quickly checked out. I’ve been blamed for being late even though I’ve waited 15 minutes to be seen.”Lichfield House customer, Stafford
“I can’t say I have had any positive experience or real help from any Job Centre and the one local to me is sadly no different.”Charlotte Jeavons, Rolfe House Foyer, Smethwick
“I think the universal job match is good, but I find it hard to sort things over the phone and it takes too long to change over benefits.”Nathan H, Eagle House, Stafford
“My experience is that they are slow, don’t listen to us and aren’t friendly. I’m not getting any advice from them.”Lichfield House customer, Stafford
“Having paid tax into the system for over six years, I feel that they are doing less work by not finding me a job and that I have to keep looking for it myself.S. Cash, Rolfe House Foyer
“It is awful. Appointments are mixed up and I received a letter saying that I had missed an appointment… I hadn’t been told I had one in the first place.”Lichfield House customer, Stafford
“The services from the Job Centre are appalling. They are not very helpful and always keep you waiting.”Darian Paskin, Rolfe House Foyer, Smethwick “I’m not happy with the service. There have been lots of issues with my payments, they aren’t helpful and the staff look down at me.”Lichfield House customer, Stafford
“It’s alright; it always deals with everything I have had issues with quickly. I use the one in Tipton.”Francis Gibson, Rolfe House Foyer, Smethwick
“I got a good service and good advice. I even sent them a thank you letter.”Lichfield House customer, Stafford
working with you
Customers give scheme managers top marks for careCustomers across Midland Heart’s Care and Support services are 100 per cent satisfied with the service they receive from their scheme managers, according to a recent survey.The report, which covers all scheme-based services, was based on 44 face-to-face interviews with customers living at Muirhead House, Lozells Road, Bevan Court and Poppy Court.The overall satisfaction for Care and Support (services provided by a Scheme Manager) in December 2012 was 100 per cent, an increase of 20 per cent on the previous month’s survey.The report also shows an increase of 11.5 per cent in the overall satisfaction with the scheme as a place to live, to 95.5 per cent.Customers were also asked to rate their satisfaction with their scheme as a place to live. Those living in older person’s schemes rated it at 100 per cent, supported housing 88.2 per cent and Care and Support overall at 95.5 per cent.
Peer Audits keep Midland Heart on trackFour Inclusion Services customers have carried out 13 audits to help Midland Heart deliver consistently high standards.Peer Visits ensure the quality of care within the organisation’s care and support schemes/services are also in line with requirements from the Care Quality Commission and the Quality Assurance Framework.Louise Ellis, Customer Involvement/Magic Moments Co-ordinator, said: “These visits also empower our customers to shape our services and have a direct input into the measurement of the service in which their peer group live.”
write on...Our poem this time comes from Garry Cooksley, a customer at Oasis House in Stafford.If you have a poem or piece of prose you’d like to share with Sunrise readers, please get in touch at the usual Future Voice address.
Why do I mess up?Why do I betray; it’s not that I want to,I wasn’t brought up this way.The fun times I’ve missedI haven’t treated family right‘Cos all I wantedWas beer, day and night.
The love I have lostThe trust I have abused,All because what I wanted…Was continuous booze.
If I could turn things aroundWhat a wonderful thing.‘Cos instead of boozeAnd a tin with a pull ring,They would see the real meAnd the love I have to bring.
Garry Cooksley
Midland Heart’s big drive this year is to improve the employment opportunities of customers so we’ve taken this theme for our Spring issue word search.There’s a £50 voucher of your choice for the first correct entry out of the bag, so make sure you send in your entry to be in the running... it’ll give a useful boost to your finances.Post your entry to: FREEPOST, RRAL-ZTXB-SJXT, Future Voice Word search, Midland Heart, Bath Row, Birmingham. B15 1LZ.
Bullying UK 0808 800 2222www.bullying.co.ukNational Bullying Helpline 0845 22 55 787 nationalbullyinghelpline.co.ukYoung Minds 0808 802 5544www.youngminds.org.ukAlcoholics Anonymous 0845 769 7555 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukDepression Alliance - help & information about depression; depression and self help groups. www.depressionalliance.org/The SamaritansTel: 0845 790 9090 (local rate)www.samaritans.org.uk
Mind - a leading mental health charity.Monday – Friday, 9.15am – 5.15pm Tel: 0845 766 0163 www.mind.org.ukSANE - provides practical help, emotional support and specialist information to individuals affected by mental health problems, their family, friends and carers. Helpline: 0845 767 8000 (6pm – 11pm) Support Forum: www.sane.org.uk/DBNo Panic - advice, counselling and self-help for people who experience anxiety, panic attacks, phobias or compulsive disorders. FREEPHONE 0808 808 0545 (10am–10pm every day)www.no-panic.co.ukAge UK (formerly Age Concern and Help the Aged) www.ageuk.org.ukTel: 0800 169 6565
Relate Advice and relationship counselling www.relate.org.uk Tel: 0300 100 1234Birmingham Information Services on Disabilities Tel: 0121 627 8610 Magistrates Court Fines, Victoria Law Courts, Corporation St, Birmingham. Tel: 0121 212 6600Runaway Advice for under 18s who have run away from home. Tel: 0808 800 7070 (freephone) www.missingpeople.org.ukNHS Direct Health AdviceTel: 0845 4647 (local call)www.nhsdirect.nhs.ukSOVA - national volunteer mentoring organisation. Help and support for those who are socially and economically
First Point of Contact
JobsSkillsTrainingApprenticeTalentsEducation
VolunteerSupportExperienceApplicationInterviewEmployer
Name
Address
Telephone
High Street coupon of choice
Issue 22 winner...Joe McDonnell from St Eugene’s picked out the winning entry from the Word Search in Issue 22. Congratulations go to Dave King from Trinity Close who wins a £50 voucher of his choice.
Word Search
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“The work programme and Pertemps are really good and if I find it useful.”Jayson B, Eagle House, Stafford
“I have problems with them as they have made my life difficult whilst dealing with my benefits.”A.M., Rolfe House Foyer, Smethwick
“Not great because some of the services aren’t available at the moment – computers etc. My advisor is very good though.”Lichfield House customer, Stafford
“I have found that my recent advisor is really useful and has told me about things that will help me. However they make me apply for random jobs I am not qualified to do!”Mark A, Eagle House, Stafford
“They take the mickey!”Jonathan Gosling, Rolfe House Foyer, Smethwick
“They are mostly rude, they don’t care and aren’t helpful. A few of the advisors are OK but they could be better. They often blame you if they make a mistake.”Lichfield House customer, Stafford
“The waiting time on the phone is too long and I feel it is not a personal service. They make me feel like scum and they don’t take into account other activities such as job search or working towards building your skills up.”Jason C, Eagle House, Stafford
Nice n’spicyOur recipe this time was submitted by Lee Ball, a keen cook from Bushbury Lane, Wolverhampton.
Caribbean-style chicken curryServes: 4
Ingredients2 chicken breasts1/4 cup oil1 cup water1 tomato, chopped1 onion, chopped2 tablespoons Jamaican Style curry powder1/2 clove garlic, chopped1 sprig thyme2 slices chilli pepper (optional)Salt
MethodCut chicken breast into 1½ inch cubes. Brown (fry) curry powder, onions, garlic, tomatoes, thyme and pepper in oil. Add chicken and brown for five minutes. Finally add water, lower heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes.Best served with white rice.
NOTE: This is a very spicy dish!!!!
recipe
Please note the competition is only open to Midland Heart customers with only one entry per customer. C G R P R E V E I J M C D V Q D O U S V L L T X G K B M G Z O E W K G R J O R J U Z L N S D O U N N Y I F G L W T B I B G E Y J O N L H V K H J C G D R R T U Q N W X N K B M K O C I E W B T N P G D A J L N F G I I R A Y U K A B K C I N U I Z I D W B Z T T B N I T A L V V K X S J W G B L Q K I T U Y E L I Q N N A C A S P I O Y Z N R I B D G S S Q E A X T H A T L U P P M C K O U S E O W O N B G R B Y D E S F E E X P E R I E N C E B R T R X T T Z T U F B C R R N H R G V V L E D N G T F I Q N O I T A C U D E V T J E I N W U M K H M X Q A L B U O J N W E Y O I S I N M O Z A X A S F W K C J E M P L O Y E R C E D Z T F I V R W C U V F K H Y C E S A L I N V R W H L I W U E U M X X Y Q H W R N I J A W I B J N J M Z C A P N O I T A C I L P P A D B C Q G S R Y W R B E K E V T T N U F G O P V K N B X L I J K F U C T J Q V Z Z C Q E E T I T R O P P U S R M U G K Y
Viewpoint continued
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disadvantaged. Tel : 0121 643 7400www.sova.org.ukNational Debtline Call 0808 808 4000 Monday to Friday 9am-9pm and Saturday 9.30am-1pmTalk to Frank Information and advice on drugs Tel: 0800 776 600 (freephone) www.talktofrank.comAquarius - Full range of help for people affected by alcohol and drug problems.Northamptonshire - tel: 01604 632421 Birmingham North - tel: 0121 685 6340Birmingham South - tel: 0121 414 0888Sandwell - tel: 0121 525 9292Baseline Stimulant ServiceA client-led drop service in Leicester to meet the needs of stimulant drug users which provides information, advice and harm reduction services.Tel: 0116 222 9555 www.lcp-trust.org.ukLeicester Drugs Advice Centre 96 New Walk, LeicesterTel: 0116 222 9555
Northampton Women’s Aid0845 123 2311 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm)Citizens Advice Bureauwww.adviceguide.org.ukUK National Domestic Violence Tel: 0808 2000 247 (24hr freephone)Brook AdvisoryConfidential sex advice for the under 25s Tel: 0800 0185 023 (freephone)www.brook.org.ukShelter housing advice helpline Lines are open daily from 8am to midnight. Tel: 0808 800 4444england.shelter.org.ukNo Panic - advice, counselling and self-help for people who experience anxiety, panic attacks, phobias or compulsive disorders.FREEPHONE 0808 808 0545 (10am–10pm every day)www.no-panic.co.ukAge UK (formerly Age Concern and Help the Aged) www.ageuk.org.uk
Tel: 0800 169 6565RelateAdvice and relationship counsellingwww.relate.org.uk Tel: 0300 100 1234Birmingham Information Services on Disabilities Tel: 0121 627 8610 Magistrates Court Fines, Victoria Law Courts, Corporation St, Birmingham. Tel: 0121 212 6600RunawayAdvice for under 18s who have run away from home.Tel: 0808 800 7070 (freephone) www.missingpeople.org.uk