issue 17-customer_news_summer2009

Stockportat homeStockport Homes’ Customer Newsletter Issue 17: Summer 2009

Did someoneshine in 2009?

pages 6 and 7

Capital ImprovementProgrammepages 16 and 17

24-hourbidding

page 35

A new play area for the children of Sleddale Close, Offerton and surrounding areas is now open - see page 11 for details

2 Stockport at home - Summer 2009 Issue 17 www.stockporthomes.org

Useful telephone numbersStockport Homes’ contacts

Anti-SocialBehaviour24-hour hotline

Carecall

Customer Feedback

Customer FinanceAutomatedPayment Line

Customer FinanceTeam (East Area)

Customer FinanceTeam (West Area)

CustomerInvolvement Team

East AreaHousing Office

Governance Team

HomechoiceSupport Assistant

HousingOptions Team HousingSupport Point

InvestmentProgramme Hotline

Leasehold Officer Repairs Resettlement Team West AreaHousing Office

Stockport Council’s contacts

Contact Centre EnvironmentalServices

Play Development Team

Neighbourhood Policing Teams

Stockport Central Stockport East

Stockport North

Stockport West

Other useful contacts

Citizens AdviceBureau (Stockport)

Credit Union (Stockport)

Crimestoppers

Furniture Station

GM Procure

Greater ManchesterPolice

Groundwork

National Grid Gas Emergencynumber

Samaritans

St. Ann’s Hospice

The Wesley Community Furniture Project

(

0161 217 6111

0161 218 1655

0161 474 2600

0845 129 7010

0161 474 2677

0161 474 2668

0161 474 2862

0161 474 4372

0161 474 2850

0161 474 3788

0161 474 4237

0161 474 3719

0161 474 4407

0161 218 1364

0161 217 6016

0161 474 3772

0161 474 4371

0161 217 6111

0161 217 6111

0161 474 4471

0161 856 5902

0161 856 9973

0161 856 9786

0161 856 9770

0844 826 9800

0161 430 5808

0800 555 111

0161 456 0717

0161 968 0377

0161 872 5050

0161 237 3200

0800 111 999

08457 909090

0161 445 7990

0161 226 9051 or 0161 226 4266

3www.stockporthomes.org Stockport at home - Summer 2009 Issue 17

Customer news

Since you became a Stockport Homes customer, have you noticed anything different from before they took over the management of your homes and neighbourhoods? I have.

I became a Council tenant shortly before the Arms Length Management Organisation (ALMO) was introduced and Stockport Homes took over. I witnessed how things started to change when customer consultations began.

When I first viewed my new home, pre-ALMO, I wasn’t very impressed with the state of the place, or the attitude of the landlord. I felt I was just filling a space they couldn’t be bothered to make an effort to maintain effectively. In fact, the property had been empty for several months and they couldn’t understand why nobody wanted it (I know that because they actually told me so!). And, once viewed, it was obvious why.

Now, a few years later, with all the improvements and upgrades Stockport Homes have made possible, I have a home I enjoy. It’s like no-one has lived here before – I’m the first one to use all the new fixtures and fittings. I don’t feel as if I’m living in someone else’s old cast-off. And better still, I was consulted for opinions and requirements throughout the changes.

But that’s not allApart from this, I’ve been given the opportunity to become involved in activities never before offered pre-ALMO.

Things such as:• Customer Action Groups (CAGs); • Area Forums; • Customer Conferences; and • the Peer Review Group (visits to other towns who operate the ALMO system to see what they have achieved).

And all this with no expense to me whatsoever.

FurthermoreI’ve also been involved with customer related projects such as:• judge for the Customer of the Year Awards in 2006; and • judge for the Annual Gardening Competition in 2007.

I have been actively involved in beneficial environment changes for neighbours, and received a nomination for the Customer of the Year Award in 2007.

Can you say the same?Has being a resident under the ALMO made you do something you weren’t able to do before? Something that made you feel you had been given a voice to make changes to your home and environment for your future wellbeing?

If the answer if no, then try something new today. Customer involvement is for every Stockport Homes’ customer, be they tenant or leaseholder. There’s someone ready to give you any information you need, the contact information is all in this newsletter.

Oh, and just one more thing – I have had a role in this newsletter too – I’m a member of the Editorial Group. Hope you enjoy reading it!

A customer’s viewby Pat Rapley


Customer news

Thanks to all the customers who have entered this year’s gardening and sunflower competitions.

Judging will be carried out throughout August and the winners will be revealed in the autumn issue of Stockport at home. Good luck everyone!

Happy 100th

Birthday!

Mrs Phyllis Langley who lives in

Heaton Mersey celebrated her

100th birthday on 16 May 2009.

Elaine Dishong, Director of Housing Need

and Support Services presented Phyllis

with a bouquet of flowers and a card from

Stockport Homes to celebrate.

Express delivery

Are you making a new claim for Housing benefit and / or Council Tax Benefit?

If you...submit a fully completed claim for benefit with all supporting evidence at any Stockport Direct Centre…

We guarantee…To process your application within 24 hours.

To take advantage of this service, please take your completed form to any of the Stockport Direct Local Centres.

For details of the nearest centre to you and opening times, please call 0845 644 4307.For Housing and Council Tax Benefit enquiries, please call 0845 644 4303.

Prize draw winnerStockport Direct (part of Stockport Council) provide the Front Line Housing Enquiry service on behalf of Stockport Homes at First House, Brinnington; Bridgehall Community Centre, Adswood and Reddish Advice Centre.

A Stockport Homes’ survey is completed by visitors to the offices mentioned above. All completed surveys are entered into a quarterly prize draw to win a £25 voucher. The winner of the April draw is Clair Williams who lives in Bridgehall. Congratulations Clair!


✗

Board news

Board column John Bowker

I joined Stockport Homes’ Board in September 2008 as an independent member. As well as sitting on the Board, I am also Director of Technical Services at Six Town Housing (an Arms Length Management Organisation based in Bury).

Due to my background and interests, I have joined the Maintenance and InvestmentSub-Group. We are responsible for interesting and important areas of work, ranging from monitoring the new build projects such as the one on Lantern Close (formerly known as Dorset Avenue), Brinnington, approving policies like the Fencing or Responsive Repairs policies and monitoring performance. As a Sub-Group we know how important it is that we get these things right, and we are always challenging officers to continually improve services we deliver to you.

I have also been appointed the Board Champion for Customer Services. Making sure that we deliver excellent customer services is at the heart of the decisions that the Board makes. As well as my role, there are seven other Board Champions, who will help keep key areas at the forefront of the Board’s work. These include the Respect Agenda, Finance, Social Inclusion and Decent Homes.

Kind regards,John Bowker

There is currently an election for a tenant Board Member in the East Area, so tenants living in the East Area will have received a ballot paper with this newsletter. It is really important that tenants vote in this election, as you are deciding who will be one of the tenant voices at the heart of our decision making for the next three years. The Board are a group of people who are collectively responsible for overseeing the work of Stockport Homes. This means that they set the strategic direction of the organisation and make sure that we are delivering excellent services to all our customers. They do not get involved in the day-to-day running of the organisation.

There are 13 people on the Board. Tenants form the largest individual group on the Board with five members; this is made up of two elected from the East Area, two elected from the West Area and one nominated by the Tenant’s Federation. There are also four Councillors and four independents who sit on the Board. Board Members are elected for a three year term, and can stand for a maximum of three terms (nine years in total). Please make sure that you read the supporting statements and cast your vote, as it is really important that the tenant’s voice is heard on the Board.

To find out what the Board does and what this means for customers, you could attend the Skills for Life course on the 20 October 2009. For more information or a copy of the Board booklet, please contact Naomi Stocks, Governance Manager on 0161 474 2850 or [email protected]

Board elections in the East Area


Housing need and support service news

Coming soon… 24-hour biddingHomechoice is an extremely popular service and our customers have told us they would like it made easier to get through to place bids and access the service.

As a result, later this year a new way of placing bids will be introduced. An automated phone line will mean that you will be able to place bids at anytime of the day or night, and with up to 30 lines available it should mean you will never get an engaged tone!

To place a bid all you will need is your application number and date of birth, and the details from the advert.

You can also carry on as normal placing bids through the website, text message or in person.As well as making it easier to place bids, it will also mean our staff has more time to do face-to-face registrations and provide advice to customers. We’ll tell you more about it when it is about to go live and send you a reminder of your application number.

The new Down-Sizing Scheme has now been launched!Would you like to reduce your household bills?Is your garden too big to manage?Would you like some extra cash?Do you have too much space?Do you have spare bedrooms?Would you like help and assistance moving?

Stockport Homes recognises that it has a shortage of family-sized accommodation and is launching the Down-Sizing Scheme to ease the pressure on the re-housing register.

The Down-Sizing Scheme will help to encourage single people and couples living in large family-sized houses to downsize to more appropriate properties to make space for families who need larger accommodation.

This will help to reduce the number of applicants who are not using all of the bedrooms in their Stockport Homes’ property, and help applicants in overcrowded situations finding larger properties.There are currently over 600 Homechoice applicants living in overcrowded circumstances lacking two or more bedrooms.

As well as benefiting the 8,500 applicants on the housing register looking for a home this new scheme will also help many elderly tenants living in properties which may leave them unable to cope and isolated from friends and family. It will also allow customers to move into a smaller, more manageable property, and could potentially save on rent, heating and other bills giving more money for life’s essentials.

The Down-Sizing Scheme will offer tenants incentives to move, which can include:• payment for each room given up;• help with removal costs; and• redecoration of the new home.

If you are a tenant with Stockport Homes and are looking to move to a smaller property with fewer bedrooms we will try to help you find a property in an area of your choice.

If you are interested, please contact Heidi Stewart, Project Officer on 0161 474 4567 or email [email protected]


OldhamDrive TRG

Coming soon – new Customer Involvement leafletAt Stockport Homes we are always looking for new ways to tell you how you can make a difference to the services you receive, so with the help of customers, we have created a new leaflet called ‘Your Home, Your Voice, Your Choice’.

It’s colourful, exciting and contains details of really great ways for you to tell us what you think, and how you can influence the decisions that affect your

home and neighbourhood.

Watch out for your leaflet in the next few months and join us in shaping our future!

For more information, please contact the Customer Involvement Team on 0161 474 2862 or email [email protected]

Customer Involvement news

A new Tenant andResidents’ Group is bornat Oldham Drive!At the end of October 2008 a number of customers from the Oldham Drive Estate in Woodley approached their Neighbourhood Housing Officer. What did they want? To increase community spirit on their estate. The residents have been very enthusiastic and really got on board with planning the meetings. Some of them have delivered a letter to everyone on the estate telling them about the new group.

This is now a successful group. They meet every six weeks at the Woodley Civic Hall on Hyde Road. If you are interested in attending please call Dee Ellis, Neighbourhood Housing Officer on 0161 474 2921 or Julie Nelson, Customer Involvement Officer on 0161 218 1382.

Members are reallypositive and committed toimproving life for residents in the area. So far they’ve had a mini estate clean-up, been on an Estate Walkabout and had talks from Glendale (grounds maintenance contractor), the recycling service and the local Police Community Support Officer (PCSO). Residents say they feel much more informed about things that are happening on their estate and enjoy getting together as a group.

If you would like help setting up a group in your area, please call the Customer Involvement Team on 0161 474 2862 or email [email protected]

Housing need and support service news


STAR Awards

STOCKPORT HOMESTRIBUTEANDRECOGNITION

Did someone shine in 2009?


Bernard Bradbury Memorial Award – This is being awarded in memory of Bernard Bradbury who for many years was Chair of the Tenants’ Federation and

made a considerable contribution to improving his local community and services for

Stockport Homes’ customers. He was alsoVice-Chair of the Board and a champion of tenant’s rights. Bernard also served as a local Councillor for 21 years and was very committed to his home town. The award is for an individual or Tenants’ / Residents’ Association most committed to their local area. They should have shown commitment to improving or caring for their local community. This could be through information sharing, partnership working, helping to improve local services or supporting community projects. For this award the winners name will also be engraved on a special plaque which will have pride of place at Stockport Homes’ Head Office.

Young Person Award – A person aged 21 or under who has done one of the following: worked to improve their area, made a positive difference to someone else’s life,

stood up to bullying, hate crime,

Stockport Homes are pleased toannounce the launch of their brand new customer awards schemefor 2009

Do you know a special someone that’s made such a difference that you feel they should be recognised for their efforts?

Are you part of a group that has worked hard to improve the lives of others?

By nominating someone for an award, you could help them win a fabulous crystal star engraved with their name and the reason they are so special. They will also win £50 of High Street vouchers.

Prizes will be awarded at a special event during November 2009.

There are some exciting new awards categories and they may just remind you of someone you know!

Closing date:Friday 2 October 2009


STAR Awards

STOCKPORT HOMESTRIBUTEANDRECOGNITION

Did someone shine in 2009?

racism or other forms of Anti-Social Behaviour or shown particular bravery.

Good Neighbour Award – A person who has made a positive difference to a neighbour or neighbours by offering support,

shopping or other kind of helping hand, including residents / ex-residents of

Temporary Accommodation Schemes who have supported and encouraged other residents to settle in, move on, or be involved in Stockport Homes’ activities or training.

Parent / Carer of the Year Award – A person or couple who have overcome major obstacles (emotional, physical or financial) to provide for a child’s personal

development and happiness.

Anti-Social Behaviour Award – A person or group of people who have made a stand against Anti-

Social Behaviour, for example by being a witness.

Creativity Award – A customer or group who have suggested a new scheme or idea which has

made a difference to a community. This could include an art or youth project.

‘Green’ Award – An individual or group who have suggested a new scheme or idea which has

made a difference to a community. This could include a wildlife garden, community recycling or any other

‘green’ scheme.

People can only win if you nominate them,so please tell us how great they are. You can nominate your STARs by completing the nomination form enclosed in this newsletter, telephoning the Customer Involvement Team on 0161 474 2862, texting 07891 949 399, completing the awards form on our websitewww.stockporthomes.org, or by emailing [email protected] If you need any help with your nomination or are unsure which category they fit into, please give us a call – we are always happy to help. Full rules and regulations are enclosed on the nomination form.


A6

Millbrook S

treet

Bamford Street

Bosden Fold

Ratcliffe StMottram Street

Mottram

Fold

Union Street

Edward Street


Customer Resource Centre Open day, 25 August 2009,12.00pm to 3.00pm

The new Customer Resource Centre has been provided in partnership with Stockport Homes and is run by volunteers from local tenant groups.

The centre was formally opened by Stockport Tenants’ Federation on 9 June 2009 to give Stockport Homes’ customers access to extra help and advice about the services they receive.

To mark the opening of the resource centre an open day has been organised on 25 August 2009 at 12.00pm until 3.00pm. You are invited to come along and find out what the Customer Resource Centre is all about and help celebrate its opening. Refreshments will be available and we’ll have face painters and games to keep the children entertained.

The new centre is located at 3, Ratcliffe Towers, BosdenFold, Middle Hillgate,Stockport SK1 3PB

For more information, please contact the Customer Involvement Team on 0161 474 2862 or email [email protected]

How do I contact the centre?You can phone on 0161 477 3590(24-hour answer phone) or email [email protected] will require an appointment to visit the centre.

The centre is open as follows:

Tuesdays 10.00am – 12.00pm

Thursdays 4.00pm – 6.00pm

StockportTenants’ Federation


Sustainability news

More success for play area improvements across our neighbourhoodsStockport Homes is a key member of Stockport Play Partnership, responsible for delivering a range of new and exciting play opportunities for children and young people across Stockport.

You may remember last year £584,000 was secured from the Big Lottery for a three year programme of improvements (see page 11 for details of the opening of Sleddale Close, Offerton).

To help deliver more improvements in spring this year the Play Partnership secured an additional £1.1 million to build new or refurbish 22 play spaces across the Borough. The Playbuilder funding, from the Department for Children, Schools and Families, will deliver innovative and challenging new play facilities for children and young people.

The programme of improvements will be delivered through the Play Partnership, which includes a range of services from Stockport Council, and Norfolk Property Services Stockport Ltd (NPS). It will involve extensive consultation to find out local children and young people’s views to make sure the new facilities reflect their needs and

aspirations.

An index of play has been

developed to identify where there

is a high need and demand for play provision.

Where is the funding being spent in year one?

The project which will be delivered in two phases over two years is expected to be completed by spring 2011, with the first phase completed in spring 2010.

Eleven projects will be delivered in year one, this includes a number of areas where customers live including:

Watch out for further updates in your newsletter. If you would like more information on the Play Builder project, please contact Brian Byland, Project Manager, on 0161 495 6082 or email [email protected]

The Play Partnership is always looking to for new ideas and ways to improve play opportunities; if you have an idea for a project, please contact Jo Cole, Sustainability Manager on0161 474 2918 or email [email protected]

Walnut Tree Estate, CheadleHeath;

HollywoodPark, Edgeley;

Ambleside Road, South Reddish;

Marbury Road, Heaton Chapel;

Moat Walk, Brinnington;

Peak Street, Stockport Central;

Heaton Norris Park, Heaton Norris;

St. Thomas Park, Offerton;

Bradshaw Hall Estate, Cheadle Hulme;

Great Moor Park, Stepping Hill; and

Woodbank Park, Offerton.

Sustainability news

Sustainability improvements in your neighbourhoodA variety of physical environmental projects have been delivered across our estates over the last twelve months. These have ranged from improvements to car parking, external communal areas, landscaping, lighting and fencing to informal play facilities.

Customers have been key in identifying and helping to shape the projects. They have been actively involved in all stages of the development and design stages of the projects. Customers have been able to identify areas of concern within their estate or particular issues. For example, areas of unattractive or unusable open space, limited parking provision or areas where there are concerns over community safety.

Once the issues have been identified, the landscape architects and architects have

then provided sketch designs for each of the schemes for further consultation and refinement with customers, before a final agreement on each scheme and implementation on the ground.

Customers have taken the opportunity to attend Estate Walkabouts, coffee mornings, Area Forums, Customer Action Groups and / or at local tenant and resident meetings to develop project ideas and raise issues with the Area Housing Teams.

Many of these projects have been delivered as part of the funding for sustainability projects set aside in the Decent Homes Capital Programme. In addition, customers have also utilised the Estate Improvement Budget, managed through Area Forums. We have also been working with partners to secure additional funding to provide added value

to projects, with funding secured through the Big Lottery, Shaw Heath Renewal Area and GM Procure Sense of Place funding.

Last years projects have included transformational changes to the:• piazza area on the Mottram Street /Estate;• open spaces and external communal areas at Pembroke House in Edgeley, Gardener Grange and Hampshire Close in Brinnington and Ince Close in the Heatons; • open space on the Bradshaw Hall estate, Cheadle; and • fencing on Poets Corner, North Reddish.

For more information, please get in touch with your Area Housing Office (see page 2 for contact details) or contact Jo Cole, Sustainability Manager on 0161 474 2918 or email [email protected]


The new piazza area on theMottram Street Estate


The new play area for the children of Sleddale Close, Offerton and surrounding areas was officially opened on 2 April 2009 by David Kirwan, Vice Chair of Stockport Homes’ Board. The opening saw face painters, balloons artists, goodie bags, a big cake for all the children to share and perfect weather.

The area, which was fondly known as “the pudding” due to the large concrete mound in the middle, is the first of five projects to deliver physical improvements to play across the Borough through the Play Partnership. The project was funded by Stockport Homes with additional support from the Big Lottery of £35,000. The original project came to light after discussions with Offerton Parish Council during 2006. Stockport Homes then carried out consultation with children, residents, Offerton Parish Council and Stockport Council’s Landscape Development Team.

Nikki Johnson a local resident who attended these consultations said

“I’ve lived here all my life. When I was younger I used to play at the pudding but it was just all concrete. It was an eyesore but now it’s been transformed. It’s really improved the look of the area and I’m pleased that my children have somewhere much nicer to play.”

David Kirwan said

“This project has been a great success and all the children have really enjoyed themselves today. I think this is testament to how much Stockport Homes care about their customers and the areas they live in.”

This year Stockport Homes will be carrying out a similar project at Stansbury Place, Offerton with funding secured through the Big Lottery. Consultation is underway and detailed designs are being prepared in anticipation that the project will be ready for summer.

Sustainability news


Anti-Social Behaviour news

Positive Actionagainst Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)In each issue of Stockport at home we provide you with a breakdown of the different types of legal action against perpetrators of ASB.

Below is a breakdown of the number of legal actions we have taken during 2008/09.

Type of Legal Action

Notice of Seeking Possession

Postponed Possession Orders

Outright Possession Orders Evictions

Evictions

Notice to Terminate (Introductory tenants)

Notice to Extend (Introductory tenants)

Demotion Notices

Injunctions

Undertakings

ASBO’s (Including interims)

Demotion Orders

Closure Orders

Total

Qtr 1 (Apr-Jun 2008)

3

0

3

1

0

1

2

12

0

1

1

0

24

Qtr 2(Jul- Sept 2008)

2

0

1

2

3

0

0

9

1

1

0

0

19

Qtr 3(Oct- Dec 2008)

1

1

1

4

0

5

1

11

1

1

0

1

27

Qtr 4(Jan-Mar 2009)

2

0

1

0

1

4

2

8

2

0

0

0

20

Total

8

1

6

7

4

10

5

40

4

3

1

1

90

As well as continuing to use legal action to tackle ASB on estates current figures show that customers’ satisfaction with how Stockport Homes deals with ASB has also increased and exceeded the targets of 90% satisfaction for both that the case was resolved and that customers were kept up-to-date with progress.

Year end 2008/09

90% customers satisfied the case was resolved

92% customers satisfied they were kept up-to-date with progress

Target

92%

94%



Stockport Homes launches ASB ToolkitA key part to tacklingAnti-Social Behaviour (ASB) is to ensure that customers and staff know exactly what measures are available to deal with different issues that arise.

This includes legal action that can be taken by Stockport Homes as a landlord and also what other powers and interventions are available from partner agencies.The ASB Toolkit has been developed in consultation with staff,

customers and key partner agencies and acts as a guide to the options available to Stockport Homes and the Local Authority in tackling ASB.Stockport Homes recognises that tackling ASB is not just about taking enforcement action and that there are also a number of support services available to deal with such issues.

The toolkit was developed to provide brief summaries of the support available and the enforcement action that can be taken.

If you would like a copy of the ASB Toolkit, please contact the ASB Team on 0161 218 1498.

New Anti-Social Behaviour Customer Action groupAre you interested in Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)? Would you like to get more involved in helping improve the ASB service? If so, Stockport Homes would value your input at a new Customer Action Group (CAG) being piloted to specifically look at the ASB service.

The CAG will look at:

• reviewing and revising the ASB policy;

• suggesting and shaping service improvements for the ASB service; and

• scrutinising Stockport Homes’ performance against key targets for ASB such as customer satisfaction and against the agreed service standards.

The CAG will not look at specific ASB cases or complaints but will play a key role in the strategic direction of the ASB service. The first meeting is planned for 13 August 2009 between6.00pm and 8.00pm.

If you would like to know more please contact Liz Ellis, ASB and Caretaking Services Manager on 0161 218 1381 or Julie Nelson, Customer Involvement Officer on 0161 218 1382.



ASB Case study Ex-parte injunction at Stonemill Terrace

The tenant moved into their property in Lancashire Hill in July 2007. Between October 2007 and January 2009 the tenant subjected her neighbour to a campaign of abuse which included banging, shouting and knocking on their front door at different times of the day and night.

In January 2009 the incidents of Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) became worse and the complainant again reported these to Stockport Homes. The ASB Officer visited the complainant to take a statement for a possible emergency injunction. When they arrived they discovered the perpetrator had been arrested for breaking into the complainants property armed with offensive weapons. The perpetrator was charged with aggravated burglary, harassment and affray.Stockport Homes was concerned that the complainant could be at risk should the tenant return to their property

and so took statements from the complainant and witness and applied for an emergency injunction.

On 6 January 2009 the ex-parte injunction was granted by the County Court. The perpetrator was remanded into Custody by the Magistrates. Before the next Court hearing extra security measures where fitted to the complainant’s property. This included extra locks and an application for a home security alarm was made to Greater Manchester Police in case the perpetrator was released from custody.

After further discussion with legal services, the complainant and

the ASB Officer it was agreed that Stockport Homes would ask the Court to add an exclusion order to the original injunction application which would prevent the perpetrator from returning to their home should they be released from custody.

At the second injunction hearing in February the District Judge granted the exclusion order for 12 months.

This is another example of Stockport Homes’

commitment to tackling Anti-Social Behaviour.

It clearly demonstrates our willingness to use

the powers available to us, where appropriate, to

protect our customers.



Focus on... ... Noise Abatement Notices (NANs).NANs can be used to stop a noise that is causing a statutory nuisance. The noise can include loud music or barking dogs.

Once the noise nuisance has been established (usually by the installation of noise monitoring equipment) Stockport Council can serve the NAN which instructs the occupant of the property to stop the nuisance.

Where noise does not stop, Stockport Council may itself put a stop to the nuisance by seizing and removing any equipment which has caused the noise or by issuing a fine.

Stockport Homes cannot serve NANs or seize equipment but we can install noise monitoring equipment to gather evidence of noise nuisance to help us with other types of legal action such as injunctions or possession proceedings.

We can also pass on any evidence we find of noise nuisance to Environmental Services at Stockport Council for them to take action.

If you would like to know more please contact Liz Ellis, ASB and Caretaking Services Manager on0161 218 1381


Investment news

Capital Improvement ProgrammeFollowing receipt of the Arms Length Management Organisation (ALMO) funding in autumn 2006, Stockport Homes has been working to achieve the Decent Homes Standard through the annual Capital Programme of works.

The Capital Programme has included the following types of works:• kitchen and bathroom replacements;• heating / boiler replacements and upgrades;• storage heater replacements;• roof replacements;• overcladding works to non-traditional properties; and• rewires.

Between 1 April 2006 and 31 March 2009 the following number of installations have taken place:

3,996 kitchen installations;

4,131 bathroon installations;

423 rewires;

1,472 roofing installations;

528 overcladding installations;

1,219 storage heater installations; and

3,636 heating installations.

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

An example of a new roof

An example of a new kitchen

Improvement works in progress


Capital Improvement ProgrammeThe following graph shows the impact the above works have had, in reducing the percentage of non-decent homes in the Borough:

Stockport Homes has measured the level of customer satisfaction during the capital works. Although some elements of the works can cause considerable disruption to your home, results show that the majority of customers have been satisfied with the overall improvement made, as you can see in the graph below:

As part of the Capital Programme of Improvements, additional works such as lift replacements, refuse chute replacements and Disability Discrimination Act and fire safety works have also been undertaken.

The 2009 / 10 Capital Programme will continue with the main priority being to reduce the number of homes which fail the Decent Homes Standard.

For more information about the 2009 / 10 Capital Programme, please pick up a copy of the ‘Capital Programme 2009/10’ leaflet from your Area Housing Office or the Housing Information Centre. Alternatively, please contact the Investment Team on 0161 474 4407 or email [email protected]

If your home is to receive improvement works you will receive a letter from the Investment Team.

Please note that this programme is subject to change. Any changes will be publicised through the website or at your Area Housing Office.

Per

cent

age

5

1015

20

25

30

35

40

Apr 06 Apr 07 Apr 08 Apr 09 Apr 10 Dec 10

Percentage of properiteswhich were non-decent

Target

Per

cent

age

20

40

60

80

100

2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

Percentage of customer satisfaction with Investment works

Target


Freephones forreporting repairs

Social Inclusion news

Did you know that freephones are available throughout the Borough for Stockport Homes’ customers to report repairs?

Freephones are available at the following locations:

West Area

• Bridgehall Community Centre

• Cheadle Hulme Advice Centre

• Cheadle Library

• Heald Green Advice Centre

• Reddish Advice Centre

• Heaton Library

East Area

• Bramhall Advice Centre

• Bredbury Advice and Information Centre

• Brinnington First House

• Marple Library

• Hazel Grove Advice Centre Library

• Offerton Advice Centre, Dialstone Centre

Town Centre

• Stopford House, South End Customer Reception

• Stockport Homes’ Housing Information Centre

The freephones in the Housing Information Centre at 1 St. Peter’s Square and at the East and West Area Housing Offices can also be used to telephone Repairs, Customer Finance (Rents) and to report Anti-Social Behaviour.

If you prefer you can contact the repairs service by:

• calling the contact centre 0161 217 6016;

• texting 07797 806626;

• faxing 0161 217 6032;

• emailing housing.repairs@ stockporthomes.org; or

• visiting our website at www.stockporthomes.org



Don’t get in with aLoan Shark… It will cost you an arm and a leg!

Have you or anyone you know:• been offered a cash loan without paperwork? • been threatened when you couldn’t pay? • had your benefit or bank card taken from you?

Or• had a loan which keeps growing even though you are making payments?

If you can answer yes to the above, you may have been bitten by a loan shark.

Loan Sharks are working illegally.

They are breaking the law, not you!

For confidential help and advice, please contact the Illegal Money Lending Team on 0300 555 2222 (local rate call, including inclusive minutes from mobiles), email [email protected] or text: loan (space) shark (space) + your message to 60003.

Ways to save moneySupermarkets reduce prices on products nearing their best before date. This usually happens at the end of the day. The times are listed below:

Asda5.00pm and 9.00pm

Morrison 5.00pm and 7.00pm

Sainsbury’s 5.00pm and 8.00pm

Tesco 4.00pm and 8.00pm

Co-op5.00pm and 7.00pm

Other shopping tips:

• Buy products from the back of the shelves for the longest use by date.

• Make a list and stick to it.

• Set a budget and stick to it.

• Avoid the shops and impulse buying by shopping online.

For expert advice on saving money on shopping, utility bills, insurance, credit cards and much more, please visit www.moneysavingexpert.com



Why do we monitor diversity?You might wonder why you keep being asked for personal information such as your age, ethnicity, disability and gender when you fill in Stockport Homes’ forms.

We collect this information to make sure that all our customers are being treated fairly when they use our services.

Some people have said they think it is ‘racist’ to ask questions about ethnicity. Actually, the reason we ask is to make sure we are NOT giving any group better or worse treatment because of their race. If we didn’t ask, we wouldn’t know whether different ethnic groups were being treated fairly or not.

We know from a recent survey that around half our customers have some form of disability.

Because we collected that information, we can make sure our services are easy to access for all our customers, no matter whether or not they have a disability. If we didn’t have that information we would not know that disability was such an issue.

Another example is that we know that more young men are evicted from our homes than other age groups for rent arrears. We can now target our efforts at that group of customers, as we know they are more likely to have financial problems and failed tenancies.

It is really helpful for us when customers complete this information on forms, so next time you see it, please take a few seconds to tick the right boxes.

If you have any questions about this, please contact our Social Inclusion Team on 0161 474 2860, or [email protected] or text on 07891 949 399.


Getting backinto work


Everyone knows there is a recession on at the moment, and this means it can be harder to find work. However, it doesn’t mean that there aren’t jobs out there.

If you’ve recently lost your job, been out of work for some time, or have never even worked at all, there is lots of help available out there for you. As well as extra in-work benefits to boost your income if you do find a job, there are organisations working in Stockport that can help you with everything from job searching, finding and funding training, gaining work experience, and updating your work skills.

If you would like more information about how much better off in work you could be, and details

of the support available, please contact Stephen Redding, Worklessness Officer on 0161 474 3780 or email [email protected]

Looking for a job?

Have you ever considered working for Stockport Homes? If so, why not visit the ‘working for us’ page of Stockport Homes’ website www.stockporthomes.org For a full list of the latest job vacancies.

Work SolutionsAre you a lone parent?

Have you been claiming Job Seekers Allowance (JSA) for 13 weeks or less?

Are you out of work due to health reasons?

Are you out of work and not claiming benefits?

Do you want to work but need extra support?

Work Solutions can help. Please visit www.work-solutions.org.uk for more information.


7. Don’t be shy about going along to job fairs and other recruitment events. They’re an excellent way of meeting employers and may even lead to a job offer on the spot!

8. Think about approaching local companies yourself to ask if they have any vacancies you could apply for – but do your research first. Make sure you choose companies that are likely to have vacancies (for example, because they have just moved to your area), and find out about the type of work they do and how it matches your skills.

9. Be open minded about what job you might do. For example, if you’ve always had a permanent job up to now, don’t rule out taking a temporary one – it could give you useful experience. Or what about self-employment? There are more than three million self-employed people in the UK, and there is support available to help you get your business idea up and running.

10. Don’t assume you’ll automatically be worse off if you take a lower paid job. You may qualify for in-work benefits that boost your income. Your Jobcentre Plus adviser can give you more information on this.

Top 10 tips for jobseekers

For more information, please contact

Jobcentre Plus on

0845 60 60 234 or visit

www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk

1. Check out the Jobcentre Plus website for information and advice to get your job hunting started – www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk

2. Make sure you have an up-to-date CV, with information on your skills, abilities and experience. If you haven’t written one before, the Jobcentre Plus website has advice on how to do it.

3. Get yourself online – almost eight out of 10 companies now advertise their vacancies on the internet, so make this is a key part of your job search. If you don’t have access at home, you could use a local UK online centre (for example,in a local library, college or community centre).To find your nearest one, log on to www.ufi.com/ukol or phone 0800 77 1234.

4. Find out all the other possible vacancy sources in your local area – check out local and national newspapers, for instance. Your local library should have copies of the main ones. And if you’re a Sky or Virgin Media customer, go to DirectGov on digital TV to search for jobs.

5. Register with some local recruitment agencies. They handle many permanent, temporary, full and part-time vacancies and can match you to employers who need staff now. Try your local phonebook for their addresses.

6. Ask your friends and family to look out for jobs for you – they may hear about vacancies where they work, which may not even get advertised.



Stockport College is helping people bite back at the credit crunch by engaging with them to help them get back into training, work placements or employment.

‘Life Chances’ encourages 14-18-year-olds in Stockport who are not in education, employment or training, to take part in positive and interesting activities. The College provides young people opportunities to develop skills in subjects such as media, arts, IT, beauty, gardening, or DIY and also enhance their interpersonal skills. The courses last around five weeks each.

Learners have come back with positive experiences. “I’ve really enjoyed this experience - rather than just sitting on the streets all day getting really bored and doing nothing,” one of them commented.

The College also offers a five-week ‘Skills for Jobs’ course in health and social care for unemployed over 19s living in the Greater Manchester area. The course is part time (15 ½ hours per week so benefits aren’t affected) and provides the skills and knowledge to work within

College provideschanging opportunities

the sector. It also offers work placements and interviews for job opportunities.

“I had not worked for 15 years but had always wanted to work in Care,” said one of the students, “the course was the best thing that happened to me, I loved it and now have my dream job, and hope to start my NVQ two in six months time. I can’t thank the College and the programme enough, it’s changed my life!”

Stockport College’s nextstep service can give you individual careers and learning advice or provide workshops on job search, CV preparation, application forms or interview techniques. Nextstep can also help if you have outdated qualifications or want to gain formal recognition for your skills. This free, impartial and confidential service is available at the Stockport College Learning Centre based in Merseyway Shopping Centre and is provided to those living or working in the Stockport or Greater Manchester area.

Please contact Life Chances - Becky Field on

0161 958 3170, nextstep on 0161 958 3535 or

the Skills for Jobs Team on 0161 958 3535.



Partner agency news

Stockport residents will soon be getting wheelie bins for recycling! From June, blue and brown wheelie bins will be delivered to the majority of homes across the Borough.

These bins will replace the black recycling box and white sack allowing residents to recycle even more. For the first time, it will be possible to recycle cardboard and plastic bottles in addition to glass, cans and paper which is currently collected.

A small proportion of households which are not suitable for the wheeled bins will remain on the black box and white sack scheme but will still be able to recycle plastic bottles and cardboard.

Stockport Council is aiming to recycle 40% of all waste by 2010. The current recycling rate is 39% so we are on target to achieve this.

A new recycling and refuse calendar will be sent out a few weeks before your bins are

delivered so keep an eye out for this as your collection day may have changed. When your bins arrive, you will also receive a leaflet explaining more about what you can recycle.

For more information about the improvements being made to the recycling service, please contact the Environmental Services Team on 0161 217 6111,email [email protected] or visit www.stockport.gov.uk/waste

Look out for your new wheelie bins this summer

Contacting your Leasehold Officer

Please contact Tracy Nield, Leasehold Officer on 0161 218 1364 or email [email protected] Appointments are also available.

Stockport Homes have produced a new leaflet which provides guidance for leaseholders who are looking to sell theirproperty.

If you would like a copy of the leaflet, please contact your Leasehold Officer.

Leaseholder news


Partner agency news

Safeguarding childrenis everyone’s businessThere have been several cases of child abuse reported in the media over the last few months.

These cases highlight that protecting children from harm isn’t just one person’s responsibility - everyone plays a role in safeguarding children. If you see any signs of child abuse (see examples below) please report them to the agencies detailed in this article. Don’t just stand back and do nothing - take action!

This means that everyone needs to be able to recognise a situation when a child may be suffering harm or abuse and know how to report it.

What is child abuse?Child abuse is the term used when an adult or another child or young person harms a child or a young person under the age of 18. It includes neglect of a child’s needs.

A child may be experiencing abuseif he or she is:• frequently dirty, hungry or inadequately dressed;• left in unsafe situations or without medical attention;• constantly ‘put down’, insulted, sworn at or

humiliated;• afraid of parents or carers;• severely bruised or injured;• displaying sexual behaviour which doesn’t seem appropriate for their age;• growing up in a home where there is domestic violence;• living with parents or carers involved in serious drug or alcohol abuse; or• involved in inappropriate sexual acts.

Remember, this list does not cover every type of abuse. You may have seen other things in the child’s behaviour or circumstances that worry you. Abuse or neglect is always wrong and it is never the young person’s fault.

What to do if you are worried about a childYou must always report any worries you have about a child. If you have any concerns regarding safeguarding children, please contact Children’s Services - Social Care on 0161 217 6028.

If this is not possible, or it is an emergency, contact Children’s Services Duty Worker on0845 644 4313.

If anyone is injured or there is immediate danger call the emergency services on 999.

Do not delay!Safeguarding children is everyone’s business.

This information has been provided by the Stockport Local Safeguarding Children Board, for further information please contact call 0161 474 5974, [email protected] or visitwww.safeguarding childreninstockport.org.uk


Fire Service news

Tips for keepingsafe this summerWe all enjoy getting out and about during the summer – but unfortunately this can bring with it its own safety risks. See below for some useful tips for keeping safe this summer.

Water Safety

• Do not play in or near water. Objects that are obscured by dirty water can cause serious injury and under currents can result in drowning.• If taking part in water based activities make sure that all necessary safety precautions and equipment is utilised, for example, helmets, life vests or floatation devices.• When fishing make sure that you stay away from the waters edge and keep the area clear of trip hazards.• Make sure that children never visit watercourses alone. They must be supervised or at least in pairs so that someone could raise the alarm if the other got into difficulties.

Barbeque Safety

• Make sure your barbeque is in good working order. • Keep a bucket of water or sand, or a garden hose nearby, in case of emergencies. • Make sure your barbeque site is flat and away from sheds, fences, trees and shrubs.

• Use only enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbeque to a depth of about 5cms (2 inches). • Never use petrol or paraffin to start or revive your barbeque; use only recognised lighters or starter fuel, on cold coals. • Keep children, garden games and pets away from the cooking area. • Never leave the barbeque unattended. • After cooking, make sure the barbeque is cool before trying to move it; empty ashes onto bare garden soil, not into the bin. • Barbeques should never be lit indoors.

Camping Safety

• Ensure that caravans and tents are at least six metres apart. • Make sure you know what the fire-fighting arrangements on the site are and where the nearest telephone is. • Keep a torch handy for emergencies – don’t use a lit candle.

As long as you are mindful of these issues when enjoying the outdoors during the summer, both you and your family should remain safe and able to enjoy many summers to come.

For more information and advice on keeping safe this summer, please call GM Fire and Rescue Service on 0161 608 5426/27 or visitwww.manchesterfire.gov.uk


New Build news

Stockport Homes hit the headlines with the following article which was published by North West Housing News.

Stockport Homes working with Stockport Council have broken new ground as contractor RBL Construction started laying the foundations of 17 new high quality and energy efficient homes on Lantern Close (formerly known as Dorset Avenue) in Brinnington on Tuesday 3 March. The new properties will be ready for customers to rent in September 2009.

These new build properties will help to regenerate the area and provide new homes and training opportunities for people in the Borough. Stockport Homes say that there is a real need in the area for more wheelchair accessible housing and larger family housing to rent, and chose to build to meet these needs. To transform the area further Stockport Homes will also be landscaping an area of public open space as part of the new

development. Consultation has taken place with local residents who were asked to make suggestions as to the best use for this open space.

Maureen Rowles, Tenant Board Member living in Brinnington said “I am really pleased to be here today marking the start of work on the new properties at Dorset Avenue. This development will help to provide new affordable homes for rent in the Borough.”

Councillor Dave Goddard, Leader of Stockport Council said “I am delighted that with our support Stockport Homes has got the funding to build much needed housing in the Borough. We hope to work with Stockport Homes to do many more.”

To keep up-to-date with the progress of the new homes Stockport Homes are building, please visit the new build section of our websitewww.stockporthomes.org

(from right to left): Cllr Chris Murphy, Brinnington Ward Councillor; Maureen Rowles, Member ofStockport Homes’ Board; Mark Hudson, Director of Technical Services, Stockport Homes; Cllr SueDerbyshire, Executive Member for Communities; Roger Phillips, Chair of Stockport Homes’ Board; Cllr Dave Goddard, Leader of Stockport Council; Brian Billingham, Area Housing Manager, Stockport Homes; Chris Munby, Development Officer, Stockport Homes; Cllr Philip Harding.

Stockport Homeshits the headlines


Performance news

At Stockport Homes we monitor performance on a monthly basis to ensure that services are delivered efficiently and effectively. One way that Stockport Homes monitors performance is through Performance Indicators (PIs), which cover a range of housing services.

These relate to all different areas of the organisation, and show how we’re performing against our targets.

At year end 2008/09, the performance report displayed a very positive picture, with all but one indicator performing as planned.

This is a fantastic achievement for Stockport Homes, and means that services for customers are constantly being improved. We’ve selected some of the top performers from 2008/09, which are shown below.

Decent Homes - % propertiesnon-decentYear end 2008/09 = 17%2007/08 was 25% non-decency

% responsive repairs where anappointment was made and keptYear end 2008/09 = 93.9%2007/08 was 91%

% of customers satisfied withthe repairs serviceYear end 2008/09 = 95.6%2007/08 was 95%

% of customers satisfiedwith investment worksYear end 2008/09 = 92.6%2007/08 was 90%

% customer satisfied thattheir Anti-Social Behaviour(ASB) case had been resolvedYear end 2008/09 = 90.16%2007/08 was 88%

Average time taken to re-letempty propertiesYear end 2008/09 = 24 days2007/08 was 27 days

Rent collected as a % of rent dueYear end 2008/09 = 98.27%2007/08 was 97.67%

% of customers satisfiedwith the complaints procedureYear end 2008/09 = 94%2007/08 was 93%

Estate inspections gradedat least “good”Year end 2008/09 = 91%2007/08 was 85%

Percentage of participants whorated customer training events as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’Year end 2008/09 = 95%2007/08 was 94%

% of calls answered byCarecall within 30 secondsYear end 2008/09 = 91.47%2007/08 was 90.55%

How are Stockport Homes performing?

On Target?

On Target?

On Target?

On Target?

On Target?

On Target?

On Target?

On Target?

On Target?

On Target?

For more information about how Stockport Homes is performing, please contact Gemma Bradleyor Samantha Donigan (Business Support Officers) on 0161 474 2637 or 0161 474 3279.

On Target?

= performing well = just under target


How are Stockport Homes performing?

= just under target

You saidYou felt there was poor communicationfollowing a repair being carried out.

You felt there was poor communication when refurbishment work was being done.

You were unhappy an offer for a property was withdrawn.

Stockport Homes does not inform customers of all the different ways they can provide feedback and then what action has been taken following comments received.

We didAn information card is now left with customers telling them what work has been done, if it has been completed, what other work may be required and a contact telephone number.

When a surveyor visits a property to determine if the kitchen and / or bathroom requires replacement the customer will be provided with an information sheet which explains what will happen next in the run up to the work actually starting (for example, a kitchen designer will visit, the customer will be invited to a choice event).

The wording on the offer letter has been amended to avoid confusion.

The Customer Service Manager has put together a list of actions resulting from customer comments. This will be taken to the next Area Forums.


Housing Management news

Police in Stockport are reminding people to be vigilant following an increase in bogus caller burglaries across the Borough.

Most people who call at your home will be genuine. However, some people turn up unannounced with the intention of tricking their way into your home. These callers are known as ‘distraction burglars’ or ‘bogus callers’, whose main aim is to trick their way into your home and steal money and valuables. Bogus callers may be smartly dressed claiming to be from the Council, a utility companys or another organisation.

If you are in any doubt, keep them out!

Most utility companies have a password scheme you can join. When a representative from the company calls, they have to provide the password to prove they are genuine. For more information, please contact your gas, electricity and water suppliers.

For more advice on how to keep safe in your home, please contact one of the Crime Reduction Advisors at Stockport Police Station on 0161 856 9646. If you see anyone suspicious or receive a bogus caller at the door please report it to the police on 0161 872 5050. In the event of an emergency ring 999.

No cold calling zonesIn order to help combat Doorstep Crime, the Community Safety Unit along with other sections of the Council and external partners have created seven ‘No Cold Calling Zones’ in Stockport.

The areas chosen were hotspots for Doorstep crime where residents had been targeted by Bogus Officials and Rogue Traders. Residents were shown a Bogus Caller play, given free home security advice and products, a No Cold Calling

guide, and key contact information. The zones are helping to protect and empower some of the most vulnerable residents in Stockport from being victims of this type of crime.

If you have any questions relating to ‘No Cold Calling Zones’ please contact Simon Goodred, Interim Chair of Stockport Bogus Caller Group on 0161 474 3163 or email [email protected]

Stop: Before you answer the door,stop and think if you are expectinganyone. Look through the spy holeor window to see who it is.

Chain: If you decide to open thedoor, put the door chain or baron first.

Check: Check their details beforeyou let them in the house. Ask forand check their identity card.

Lock: Keep your front and backdoors locked, even when you areat home.

Beware bogus callersPolice Service news


Police Service news

Secure your home

Secure your home

Garden security

• fit a door chain or bar and door viewer (spy- hole), and use them; • never leave a spare key in a convenient hiding place such as under the doormat, in a flowerpot or behind a loose brick - thieves know to look there first; • when you are out in the evening, leave your lights on and shut the curtains; and • keep your tools and ladders securely locked up – a burglar could use them to get into your house.

Burglary pack

The Home Office has published a pack to help you take simple preventative steps to protect your home. If you want a pack, please call0800 456 1213 or visit www.homeoffice.gov.uk/secureyourhome

Burglary is a crime of opportunity - don’t give burglars a chance. Follow this advice to make your home safer.

Tips To make certain your house is as safe as you can make it:• always remove all keys from inside locks, and keep them out of sight and in a safe place;• mark your property - having it marked helps police verify it’s been stolen;

To avoid prowlers and burglars gaining access to your property through your rear garden you might want to think about:

• installing outside lighting;• growing trees or hedges; or• putting fencing up around your garden.

For more information about Garden Security, please see GM Police’s Garden Security Information Sheet No. 3b. You can obtain a copyof this information sheet plus other useful information about home and vehicle security by contacting [email protected]


Temporary accommodation news

Brindale House Award 'Flat of the month'

Comic relief at Brindale House

Brindale House promotes healthy living

As an incentive for residents to keep their flats

clean and tidy, with effect from January 2009

Brindale House have introduced ‘Flat of the

Month’. The winner will receive a ‘home’ themed

gift to help them when they move on to their own

tenancies, such as a set of pans, dinner service or

microwave.

Everyone whose flat looks lovely receives a thank

you letter from the staff, which they can keep and

use along with references for any interviews with

Housing Associations or landlords they may have.

Project Workers at Brindale House took residents at the scheme interested in ‘healthy eating’ and ‘shopping on a budget’ along to an educational session looking at these issues. Stockport Homes and Stockport Continuing Education ran free two hour taster sessions over two weeks for anyone who may have a limited food budget or wanting to pick up tips on where to shop for healthy food in the area. The sessions were held in Brinnington, so those attending were able to walk to the sessions.

Brindale House and Play Development Staff supported Comic Relief

on Friday 13 March 2009 by doing ‘Something Funny for Money’.

Staff, parents and children at the scheme were encouraged to don

their best fancy dress attire and were invited to join in the ‘red’

themed party celebrations to raise money for the charity.

Matthew, winner of the March prize, chose a kettle,

toaster and set of cutlery; and was presented with a

certificate by staff (see picture below).

Several residents at the scheme attended the course, where on completion, they received a free ‘Cooking on a Budget’ recipe book; a £10 voucher for the supermarket of their choice and a free healthy lunch.

Due to the success of the event, staff at Brindale House are looking at running similar sessions at the scheme, and with the input of residents, producing a ‘Local Shopping Guide’ and Recipe book.


ChiefExecutivesColumn

Hello everyone,

I hope you are now seeing not only improvements

in your own home brought about by the ‘Decent Homes’ works, but also a general improvement in the area you live. Stockport Homes is trying to not only physically improve your home but also the overall quality of life on estates.

I know some tenants have concerns about payments for water being through your rent and I can understand this, but I genuinely believe that the benefits outweigh the difficulties. By doing this, all tenants have a reduction in their water

Diversity and accessibilityIf you find reading difficult, did you know you can get copies of newsletters and other documents from Stockport Homes on audiotape or CD, free of charge? We can also provide information in large print.

If you want to know more, please contact Phil Rhodes ontelephone 0161 474 2860text 07891 949 399 email [email protected] or write to Stockport Homes, Social Inclusion Team, Directorate of Housing Management, 2nd Floor, 1 St. Peter’s Square, Stockport SK1 1NZ

The paper which is used for this newsletter is from a sustainable source. Please recycle it in an appropriate way.

A free interpreting service is available if you need help with this newsletter. Please telephone Stockport Interpreting Unit

on 0161 477 9000. Email: [email protected]

payments and some tenants are managing to make further savings either by identifying mistakes in their charges or changing the way they pay.

The commission received for doing this work is all put back into delivering services to tenants, mainly focused on supporting people through these difficult financial times.

We are continually trying to improve our services and I hope this newsletter helps to inform you not only about what we are doing, but how you can get involved in it. Remember, we are always pleased to receive any feedback however small, or however critical.

Have a good summer.

Helen McHaleChief Executive

issue 17-customer_news_summer2009

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