The South Essex Homes Twitter and Facebook pages have now been up and running for over a year and are still going strong! Have you joined our growing number of followers and ‘like’s yet? Look for South EssexHomes via the Search bar and join. In return you’ll get the latest information, updatesand news, as well as the opportunity to take part in competitions and ‘live’online discussions with our representatives.

Congratulations to Jeanette Hicks who won a hamper of ASDA essentials in lastissue’s social media competition prize draw.

As a result of the competition, many of youliked our Facebook page or followed us onTwitter – why not join them?

This dedicated section of Insight gives residents the opportunity to have their letters and feedback published. This issue’s Star Letter was sent in by local photographer Gavin Porter who wins a £10 gift voucher.

Online Insight

If you would like a copy of this newsletterin large print, on audio tape or CD, inbraille or on a CD-rom, please phone

the number above

0800 833 160There are now 367 followers on Twitter and 93 members who 'like'

our Facebook page (figures correct as of 15 March 2012)Why not join them?

H HH H

HSPRING 2012 THE SOUTH ESSEX HOMES RESIDENT NEWSLETTER

Rachel Riley talks to Insight about ‘doing the numbers’ on popular TV show Countdown, shopping in Leigh-on-Sea, and how kids and parents alike can enjoy maths (see page 3).

PAGE 4 | Resident conference update!

PAGE 11 | *New* Community Spotlighton Equality and Diversity

PAGE 14 | Just for Fun and Kids’CornerAND 15

> I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E

See page 2.

H

There’s a fantastic £10 gift voucher up for grabs forour favourite letter.

HDear Insight I am a student photographer at SECC and live in Pennine Flats. I hope you might be interested in this photograph of Southendtown centre by night. This is just one of the many local interest pictures I have taken. I’m keen to get my name out there as a local photographer so if you could feature this image in the next issue it would be most appreciated!Thank you.

Dear Insight,‘A Spot of Trouble in Southend’– no, this isn’t a report of youth nuisance on the seafront or traffic congestion in town, but rather thetitle of my book that I hope will be of interest to Insight readers. I havebeen a big Laurel and Hardy fan since I moved to Southend in 1992. I discovered to my delight that they had appeared at the SouthendOdeon in August 1952, during their extensive tours of the UK aftertheir filmmaking careers were over. In 1998 I launched ‘Saps at Sea’, the local branch of the Laurel and Hardy Appreciation Society. After a while, I decided I wanted to tell the tale properly and write ‘A Spot of Trouble in Southend – Laurel & Hardy, memories of their visits in1952’, which delves into their shows and includes unpublished photos, personal correspondence, anecdotes and biographies.It costs £10 (plus £2 postage & packaging). For more details, email roger.robinson5@btinternet.com or call 01702 526187. Thank you.

If you have a compliment,suggestion or commentyou would like to feature

in the next issue of InsightMagazine, please send it

through to us using one ofthe ‘Get in touch’ methods

on page 2.

“I would like to inform all readers that I have enjoyed attending myfirst four-week tenancy sustainment course at the Southend AdultCommunity College, after reading about it in Insight magazine. I havelearnt a lot from the course and made a lot of new friends.”Roy Chittock, Kestrel House

Star Letter

Gavin Porter

Roger Robinson

With the brand new series ofCountdown having started inJanuary, it looks like it has beena busy year for you so far – howhave you found it?It’s not been too bad as we actuallypre-record a lot of shows. It’s anexciting year because it’s alsoChannel 4’s 30th birthday. We’vealready taken part in the Channel 4Mash Up with the boys from 8 OutOf 10 Cats coming on toCountdown. That was really goodfun. (The Mash Up saw some of thebroadcaster's biggest personalitiesappear in each other’s programmes.)

What’s it like working with newCountdown host Nick Hewer(Alan Sugar's eyes and ears onThe Apprentice)?Nick’s very funny, and in a completely different way to Jeff[Stelling]. I can’t describe in whatway though! The show has a wholenew feel to it now and we're juststarting to get to know each otherbetter and develop our banter.We're chalk and cheese really butthat's something we can have somefun with and rib each other about.

And what about Nick’s ‘sex symbol’ status reported on inthe media? (Ratings rocketed inthe first two weeks of the newseries because of Nick’s femalefollowing).(Laughs) Everyone’s a bit surprisedabout that, especially Nick, he's stillwaiting with anticipation for the

swooning women at the gates ofGranada!

You’ve been on Countdown forthree and a half years now; doyou feel like you’ve well andtruly established yourself in thejob?I hope I have. At first it was difficult,there was a lot of press attentionand I'd beat myself up if I missed anumbers game. I still get annoyedwith myself if I miss one but it’s notso bad now as I know I've provedmyself on that front and happily itdoesn't happen too often.

You’re said to have “a very keeninterest in promoting Maths andScience to young people”, havingvisited a number of schools totalk to pupils. What advicewould you give to young peoplehoping to do well in these subjects?Practice – when I applied to be onCountdown I hadn’t done mentalarithmetic in a while, so I was a bitslow. It's like a muscle, your brainneeds exercising to keep it sharp. Ithink parents should try and helptheir children with homework too.Maths can be one of those subjectsparents are scared of because theystruggled with it when they were atschool. But learning with your childcan be the perfect opportunity toget to grips with it now.

You studied Maths at Oxford. Withsuch high tuition fees to attend

university now, many people don’tknow whether they should go.What’s your advice to them?Make sure you pick the right degree,preferably one that’s going to leadto a job. Some courses, howeverenjoyable, don’t necessarily makeyou any more employable. Try andpick one that will.

Other than Oxford, you don’tseem to have gone far from yourhome county, having been bornin Rochford, attended SouthendHigh School for Girls and nowliving in Thorpe Bay – have youalways known you’d come backto Southend?Not really, it just happened, but I dolike Southend. I’ve bought a househere with [my fiancé] Jamie.Sometimes friends from Londoncome and they can’t believe somewhere like this exists so closeto London, especially in the summer. Plus my parents are here,which is important to me.

Any other projects in store forthe year, besides Countdown?A lot of my time is being taken upwedding planning at the moment!I’m enjoying doing Countdown andit's great that my schedule allowsme to do other bits and pieces thatcrop up too. You get asked to do a lot of things when you’re a recognisable face in the media. Butif I was to do something else I’d likeit to be Maths or Science related –something that is actually relevantto my skills and interests, not justbecause I’m on the telly.

Finally, where are your favouriteplaces in Southend?I love to go to Leigh-on-Sea. It’s greatfor shopping with the Lemon Fox boutique and lots of lovely independent delis and cafes to relax in.

Welcome to Insight Spring 2012, bringing your household the latest news,info and entertainment from South Essex Homes.

Chats with the Chair Southend StarsThis issue, we were delighted to talk to Southend’s own maths marvel Rachel Riley. After attendingSouthend High School, Rachel went on to gain a 2:1 Masters in Maths from Oxford University. Then in2008, she saw off 1,000 other applicants to replace Carol Vorderman as the maths expert on populargame show Countdown.This issue is

brimming withgreat content,including aninterview with‘local heroine’,CountdownpresenterRachel Riley.

We are grateful to Rachel for supporting the magazine, and hercommunity, in this way.

Other articles featured in this issueinclude energy-saving propertyimprovements, helping tenants to savemoney on their fuel bills, and theMendip wildlife garden communitygroup, which is based close to where

I’ve recently moved. This articledemonstrates the real difference localresidents’associations can make. Wealso introduce Community Spotlighton Equality and Diversity (page 11) – a new regular section showing ourcontinued commitment to all residents. Old favourites Just for Funand Kid’s Corner, meanwhile, haveoodles of ideas on how to spend thesebrighter months.

In light of recent reported crime andASB issues at some of our tower blocks,we would like to assure residents thatwe are listening to your views andworking hard to bring about long-termsolutions (see page 5). The board’srecent visit to Thurrock Council to

review its successful concierge serviceis a good example of this.

I hope you enjoy reading this issueof Insight. We welcome your feedbackas it helps to maximise what workswell or identify where improvementscan be made. Please complete theenclosed survey and let us knowwhat you think of your magazine!

Best regards

Phil LyonsChair of South Essex Homes

Get in touch...To send in your story ideas for future issues of Insight

Magazine, or to provide feedback on something you've read,contact the Editor via the following methods:

Insight Magazine, South Essex HomesCheviot House, 70 Baxter AvenueSouthend-on-Sea SS2 6HZEmail: insightmagazine@acceleris-mc.com For all telephone enquiries, please call us via our freephone number 0800 833 160.

SOUTHEND STARS | 32 | CHATS WITH THE CHAIR

MORE COMMUNITY NEWS ON PAGES 4 TO 7...

Introducing new repairspartner Kier Southend-on-Sea Borough Council has signed a multi-million pound contractwith leading repairs and maintenance provider, Kier, to improve services for12,000 residents over the next five years.

The contract, which began on 1 April, will be managed by South Essex Homes. Kierwill take responsibility for out of hours emergency works, major works, void propertyinspections and renovations as well as every day responsive repairs and maintenance.

South Essex Homes chief executive, Mike Gatrell, said: “Kier has an impressive trackrecord of delivering high-quality repairs and maintenance services to social housingproperties across the country. We are looking forward to working with such a forwardthinking company which is so proactive in engaging with communities in the areas inwhich it works.”

Kier was selected to provide repairs and maintenance services to the council’s 6,000homes following an extensiveprocurement process, conducted understrict EU procurement regulations. Theselection process incorporated a complexquality evaluation, interviews and site visits involving residents at every stage.

Any Kier operatives visiting your hometo carry out housing repairs will be wearing Kier uniforms and carrying identification cards.

Your Community, Your News

Rachel would like to acknowledge local charity PeacefulPlace, which offers support to people living with youngonset dementia. Her mum Celia is Fundraising Manager at the charity. For more information, visit:www.peacefulplace.co.uk

3The Countdown team – (fromleft to right) lexicographer Susie

Dent with host Nick Hewer and Southend sums specialist

Rachel Riley

Fancy receiving a free shoppingvoucher of your choice just by tellingus what you think of Insight magazine?

We have £10, £15 and £20 worth ofvouchers up for grabs. All you have todo is complete the enclosed questionnaire about the magazine, itsfrequency, content and design andsend it back to us by 18 May 2012. Allsurveys completed in full will then beentered into a prize draw to win a giftvoucher.

Your views and opinions areimportant and will help us to knowwhere we’re doing things right and similarly where we can makeimprovements.

Many thanks for your assistance!

Win voucherswith our Insightsurvey!

South Essex Homes partners with repairs and maintenance contractor Kier 5

As you may have read in the last issue of Insight, South Essex Homes hostedits fifth successful resident conference in November 2011. Here were just some of the highlights:

v This year’s guest speaker was The Worshipful theMayor, Councillor David Norman, who said: “Housing hasalways been an important issue to me. I believe South EssexHomes delivers the best service, offering freedom andaccountability to its residents. After five years, the ALMO’srelationship with Southend Borough Council can be regarded as a success. Many of the results can be creditedto its wonderful and dedicated staff, and other key successes have undoubtedly been down to residents.This is an opportunity to say thank you for the contributionyou have made.”

v Residents pitted their general knowledge wits againsteach other in a Christmas quiz hosted by staff memberRoger Robinson.

vThe Southend Tenants and Residents Federation donated a cheque to Havens Hospice for just over £580.These funds were raised at last summer’s Community Tie-Inevent.

vThe event concluded with an awards ceremony, wheremore than 30 deserving members of the communityreceived prizes, including Most Proactive Resident andLong Standing Involvement Award.

Update: resident conference4 | YOUR COMMUNIT Y, YOUR NE WS YOUR COMMUNIT Y, YOUR NE WS | 5

There has been some negative pressrecently regarding crime and anti-socialbehaviour at some of our tower blocks.

Certain reports have wrongly suggested that thesepremises are a ‘no-go area’ and as such are not receivingsufficient attention from South Essex Homes, SouthendBorough Council and the police.

We would like to assure all residents that South EssexHomes is committed to tackling these issues, and isworking alongside the council, police, other key agencies and residents to improve security and resolveproblems.

Tower blocks by their very nature bring their ownunique issues in terms of management. For instance,housing estates comprised of houses and bungalowsdo not have just one common entrance and two accesslifts for all residents to use.

We are working closely with residents to look objectively at these issues, turning the negative mediaattention into something positive and encouraging thecommunity to be part of the effort to continue addressing issues of low level crime and anti-socialbehaviour in our high rise blocks.

To this end, we have set up the QueenswayCommunity Circle, a different approach where residentswork with us to identify and address the concerns oftheir community.

For more information on how to get involved pleasecall freephone 0800 833 160. We are always availableto help with issues regarding ASB and crime, whereveryou live. If you have concerns or questions please contact us on the number above and we will do everything we can to assist you.

A group of South Essex Homes board members haverecently reviewed the concierge service run byThurrock Council at some of its tower blocks.

Out and about

The visit formed part of ongoing proposals toenhance security at our own tower blocks. NigelFolkard, Mary Betson, Wendy Greenberg and CatherineManley spoke to Thurrock Council residents and officers,who were happy to share their expertise and positiveexperience of the service, which includes 24/7 CCTVmonitoring of estates.

This has helped with anti-social behaviour in that areaand allowed Thurrock Council residents to feel moresafe and secure. The board members were veryimpressed with what they saw and are keen to explorethe proposals further – watch this space.

ID badges should include a photograph, company name and telephonenumber so you can double-check the operative’s identity. Don’t be afraid to ask them to wait; a genuine visitor should not be impatient.

Here is an example of a PH Jones badge, but not all badges will look like this. If in doubt, please contact South Essex Homes on freephone 0800 833 160 - we will be happy to help.

We would like to remind all residents to always ask to see the ID badges of any operatives who visit your home.

A number of council homes will receive cavity and loft insulation,have energy efficient windows installed and be fitted with energyefficient boilers. In addition 253 homes will receive new roofs toreduce heat loss.

Meanwhile, a scheme to improve the energy efficiency of someof our lowest performing properties aims to cut tenants’ fuel billsby a minimum of 30 per cent and to reduce each property’scarbon footprint by 40-50 per cent.

Besides investing in house improvements, South Essex Homeshas provided funding for six dedicated energy officers to completea City and Guilds Energy Awareness qualification. This energysaving team will educate tenants and staff on practical steps thatcan be taken in order to reduce the amount of energy used.

South Essex Homes Chair, Phil Lyons, said: “As an organisation,South Essex Homes is committed to improving our residents’properties, reducing their fuel bills and helping the environmentand we have launched a package of measures to achieve thesegoals.”

For more information on our Energy Strategy, call us onfreephone 0800 833 160.

South Essex Homes has launched a range of energy-saving installation projectsto help tenants save money by reducing energy consumption in their homes.

Green schemes save tenants money

57/7 survivor Daniel Biddle (left) receives the Outstanding

Contribution to Equality & Diversity award from Disability and

Impairment Focus Group member and resident, John Day (right) and

South Essex Homes Chair Phil Lyons (centre)

Got any ID?

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee on Sunday 3 June 2012 is fast approaching and formany of us, that also means a four-day weekend! Fancy celebrating with us?

Please contact Hayley Allen on 0800 833 160 for further information and feel free to shareyour suggestions and ideas to make this a day to remember and enjoy.

This and other Jubilee celebrations across the country have been inspired by the BigLunch initiative, in which communities are encouraged to get together over lunch andbe neighbourly.

A diamond idea!

3The official Diamond Jubilee emblem, designed by 10 year old Katherine Dewer from Chester following a national competition

6 | YOUR COMMUNIT Y, YOUR NE WS

A hate crime is defined as: Any hate incident, which constitutes a criminal offence, and is perceived by the victim or any other person, as being motivated by prejudice or hate.

Southend has its own Hate Crime IncidentPanel, which acts as the monitoring forum forhate crimes and incidents and a focal pointfor obtaining feedback on present policy, orguidance on resolving issues for individualsand communities affected by hate crimeissues.

So, what should you do if you or someoneyou know experiences hate crime?

• DON’T retaliate: you could risk violence ormake the situation worse.

• DO tell someone about it: hate crime isinexcusable and should be dealt with as soonas possible. If you're at school or college, tell a

teacher or staff member what has happenedand they'll help you to sort it out and decidewhether you want to inform the police.

• DO remember that it is your right to goto the police, report a crime and have itinvestigated. Alternatively, if you feel uncomfortable about going to the policethere are numerous third-party reporting sites such as community centres, churchesand mosques, or you can arrange a one-on-one interview with representatives trained to fill in a crime form to notify the police. For information about your nearest centre,please call South Essex Homes on 0800 833160 (freephone).

We are currently working on a DVD to promote the ways in which South EssexHomes works with victims of hate crime and provides support. Please watch thisspace for more information.

Zero tolerance on hate crime in Southend

YOUR COMMUNIT Y, YOUR NE WS | 7

With 1.8m households on the waiting list, it is vital not only that each social home goes to a household who needs it, but also that it continues to be occupied by the household to whom it was given.

Tackling tenancy fraud

Unfortunately, a small minority of tenants tryto cheat the system. Whether it be throughsubletting a home they have been allocated,often making a large profit in the process, orlying about their circumstances to get anallocation in the first place, their abuse ofsocial housing not only deprives others of asettled home who are in genuine need andwho play by the rules, it also comes at aconsiderable cost to the taxpayer. TheNational Fraud Authority estimates that tenancy fraud costs around £900m per year.Replacing the social homes that are beingunlawfully occupied – to house those whohave effectively been displaced by tenancyfraudsters – would cost several billionpounds.

Contact us if you suspect your neighbouris cheating the system. This could be by: • Exchanging their property with another

person without our permission• Moved out and renting their property to

someone else for profit

• Living elsewhere• Living with someone who is working whilst

claiming benefits

This could potentially be fraud and wewould need to investigate and take action.

You can report this via one of the following methods:• Use the online 'Report a suspected

Fraud' form on www.southend.gov.uk• Ring the Southend-on-Sea Corporate

Fraud Reportline number 01702 215215.Or if you would like to speak to someone directly on the Investigation Team ring 01702 215254 during office hours (9.00am - 5.15pm)

• Ring the National Benefit Fraud Hot-Line on 0800 854440

• Send an email to counterfraud@southend.gov.uk.

• Ring South Essex Homes on 0800 833160• Send an email to

customerservices@seh.southend.gov.uk

Congratulations to five South Essex Homes employees who have passed theCommunity Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS) run by Essex Police.

Empowering communities

Following an extensive training and vetting process, the members of staff now have the power to deal with anti-socialbehaviour on estates by taking the names and addresses of those involved.

This brings the total number of CSAS-accredited employees to 14. All scheme members wear a badge and hold an IDcard stating their name and confirming the powers they have been granted

South Essex Homes has received an Essex Police plaque in recognition of our involvement in CSAS over five years andongoing excellent partnership working with Essex Police.

Anita McGinley, manager of the Southend Multi-Agency ASB Response Team (SMAART), said: “South Essex Homes haslong shown a commitment to positively dealing with incidents of anti-social behaviour, in order to try and minimise any negative effect such incidents have on the community as a whole. The CSAS accreditation adds credence to these efforts as the members of staff most likely to encounter ASB in their working life are trained up so that they are fully equipped to deal with matters as they arise in a professional and effective manner.”

Town centre residents have donned their gardening gloves and braved the cold weather to show off their skills and revamp their local estates.

Residents get their hands dirty

As part of a partnership project between South Essex Homes andthe Storehouse, a team of residents replanted the large plantersbordering the play area.

The main aim of the project was to involve residents in tidyingup their local estate and encourage them to take ownership ofthe area in which they live.

Vicky Aquilina, a participant from Chiltern, said: “This projectreally made a big improvement. It would be fantastic to get otherlocals involved and see some new faces.”

Residents wishing to get involved in community projectsshould contact Sam Elliott, Resident Involvement Officer, on 0800 833 160.

There are also plans to set up a gardening club this year sowatch this space…

5Green-fingered residents improve their estates

A hate crime or incident refers to behaviour motivated by prejudice on the groundsof, for example, race, religion, sexual orientation and disability. South Essex Homes iscommitted to working with residents to tackle hate crime and eliminate it in all its forms.

Congratulations to four winners of the PH Jones prizedraw who have each been awarded £100 in gift vouchers for allowing gas safety engineers access totheir homes on the first appointment. Operatives from PH Jones are responsible for carrying out

essential gas safety visits. Allowing them access is essential as it literally could mean the difference between life anddeath. (Please also see our article on page 5 about checkingthe IDs of visitors to your home.)

Prize draw success4(Front, left and right) South Essex Homes Chief Executive Mike Gatrell

receives a special plaque from Chief Inspector Dave Colwell, accompanied bynewly-accredited staff (back row, left to right) Steve Turner, Natalie Haven,

David Chidgey, Nadine Gould and Steve Vandenberg

8 | INSIGHT INFO INSIGHT INFO | 9

But the lighter evenings and increased activity also signal anopportunity to renew or take out tenants contents insurance.No-one wants the expense of theft or accidental damage sohere are some simple steps you can take to safeguard yourhome and belongings:• Be secure. Curtains left undrawn and no lights on inside canalert burglars to the fact you’re not in, even if you’ve onlypopped out for a short time. Make sure all doors and windowsare securely locked when you leave the house. Plus, draw thecurtains and switch on a light or two (or put them on a timer),to give a would-be intruder the impression that someone’shome. • Take out tenants contents insurance. Unfortunately, despiteour best efforts, break-ins can and do occur. Taking out tenantscontents insurance would enable you to claim the cost ofreplacing possessions stolen or damaged in a burglary. Thisinsurance is very affordable, easy to arrange and you can choose to pay annually, or by monthly or weekly installments at no extra cost. Plus, there’s no excess to pay in the event of aclaim. Remember - it’s your responsibility to insure your home’scontents.• Protect your garden shed. Garden sheds often contain valuable items such as lawnmowers, bicycles, garden furniture,

children’s toys etc, which can be attractive to burglars. Put a good-quality lock on your shed door as one of your first jobs ofspring. If you do fall prey to a clever thief, and the outbuilding iswithin the boundary of your garden, its contents would be covered by your tenants contents insurance.• Avert DIY disasters. Mishaps can happen while spring-cleaning or decorating, such as breaking a pane of glass whilecleaning windows, or spilling paint on the carpet. You may wantto opt for accidental damage cover with your tenants contentsinsurance, which would pay to rectify the damage caused.However, not all policies cover this, so double-check the wording on your policy.

For more details and a tenants contents insurance applicationform, contact South Essex Homes on freephone 0800 833 160.

Springtime is a wonderful time of year and most of us are only too glad to see itsarrival after the long cold winter days. It’s a time to spend more time outside and do a spot of gardening or DIY.

Home insurance reminder Where a result is shown as AMBER K his means that we havenot met our target by a fairly small threshold (usually less than 10%of the target with a few exceptions). When a result is shown asGREEN ☺performance is meeting target or is better than target.At the moment, we do not have any indicators which are outsideof target by very much, but if we do, we report this as RED L

All our Key Performance Indicators are reported to ourPerformance Committee, and the monthly results are also circulated to all Board Members and to Southend BoroughCouncil. We also publish a performance information pack eachquarter which is available on the internet or as a paper copy onrequest.

How are we performing?In each edition of Insight, we provide some information about how South Essex Homes is performing. In this edition, we are going to report on some of our Key Performance Indicators, one for each of a number of different areas of service.

Calls answered within one minute – Careline service (KP3)

Void Turnaround Time (KP7)

Calls answered in 30 seconds – Customer Contact Centre (KP8)

Average time to complete all repair jobs (KP15)

Percentage of properties which have a valid Gas Safety certificate (KP17)

Percentage non-decent council homes (KP19 – January’s figures as data takes a little longer to collect and check)

Complaints responded to within target time (KP25)

99%

25 days

90%

6 days

100%

21.5%

100%

ESTATE SERVICES PERFORMANCE INDICATOR TARGET METTARGET?

Mendip wildlife garden community groupDid you know that Dunster Avenue is home to a beautiful wildlife gardencreated by local residents?

A small group of people have worked tirelessly to get it up and running,and now we have formed the Mendip community group to maintain thegarden and run events to help with its upkeep. Forthcoming eventsinclude an Easter egg hunt and celebrations for The Queen’s DiamondJubilee - keep an eye out for further details.

We look forward to seeing you on your next visit to the garden in the near future!

Your local residents’associationsSouth Essex Homes supports some fantastic residents' associations (RAs) to help bring local communities together, discuss andresolve neighbourhood issues, and provide additional support to residents who need it. We include details of local RAs in eachissue of Insight. For more information, please call the Resident Involvement Team on 0800 833 160 or see previous issues of Insight.

Need a garage?We have garages available to rent in the following areas:• Ashanti Close • Blackdown • Brecon • Bridgewater Drive• Bulwark Road • Carmania Close • Cecil Court • Chelmer Way • Cunningham Close • Eagle Way • Fraser Close • Grampian• Riverstone • Saxon Gardens • Sherwood WayIf you are interested in renting a garage or would like moreinfo, please call us on 0800 833 160.

3Residents proudly open the Mendip wildlife garden

There are many different kinds of abuse. Abuse can be physi-cal, emotional, sexual, discriminatory, financial, or a result ofneglect. Anyone can be an abuser, and abuse can happenanywhere, including your own home.If you know or suspect an adult is being abused, there are a number of organisations you can contact:• South Essex Homes - 0800 833 160 (freephone)www.southessexhomes.co.uk

• Ask Sal (helpline) - 0845 2666 663 www.asksal.org.uk• Adult Social Services at the council – 01702 215008www.southend.gov.uk

• The police - call 101 or, in the event of an emergency, 999

If you know or suspect a child is being abused, contact:• South Essex Homes – same details as above • NSPCC Helpline - 0808 800 5000 www.nspcc.org.uk• Children’s Services at the council – 01702 215007

www.southend.gov.uk

• Childline - 0800 11 11 www.childline.org.uk• The police - call 101 or, in the event of an emergency, 999

Are you a victim of abuse? Do you know of a vulnerable adult or child who is beingtreated badly, taken advantage of or injured?

Help is only a phone call away

The chart below tells you the indicator name and number, the target for this year, the result for the year to date from April 2011 to February 2012, and whether we are meeting our targets.

RESULT DECEMBER

98.9%

18.8 days

88.9%

5.78 days

100%

21.5%

98%

K

☺K

☺☺

☺

K

Skills for Life

COURSE TITLE DATE & TIME COURSE OUTLINE QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE WITH PROGRESSION

Starts Fri 20th AprilThree-week course10am-12pm

Starts Fri 4th MayFive-week course12-2.30pm

Starts Mon 11th JuneFive-week course.12-2.30pm

Dates to be agreed.Four-week course. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday10am-1pm

CONFIDENCE AND SELF ESTEEM

FOOD HYGIENE

BASIC FIRST AID

TENANCY SUSTAINMENT

Food HygieneCertificate

First Aid Certificate

LiteracyNumeracyNOCN (National OpenCollege Network)qualifications

Want to learn a new skill, get tips on applying for jobs online or cook-ing on a budget, or even find out how to administer basic first aid? Here is a calendar of popular courses held at Southend's Business Enterprise Skills and Training(BEST) Centre between April and June 2012. For more information contact Tenancy Sustainment on freephone 0800 833 160.

1 0 | INSIGHT INFO INSIGHT INFO | 1 1

Recently South EssexHomes surveyed all residents with a disabilityasking how they would like to be involved inimproving the service.

Your views are really important to us so if youhave not yet returned thesurvey, or didn’t receive one,please contact TraceyHannington, ResidentInvolvement Manager on01702 212704 or e mailtraceyhannington@seh.southend.gov.uk

*NEW* Community Spotlight onEquality and Diversitydementia

A valuable course to learn tips on howto build and boost confidence andimprove self esteem.

This course covers basic food hygieneand food preparation within the homeand work environment.

This course offers basic first aid guidance and gives you the confidenceto help in times of need.

This course is available for candidateswho need information on how to keepa tenancy, rent arrears, ASBOs, financeand cooking on a budget, as well asplanning for your future goals.

Welcome to this brand new section of Insight detailing our continued commitment and support toall of our residents. This dedicated section replaces Communities magazine as a more cost-effectivesolution for providing information and updates.

Would you like experience in the world of work?If you are unsure of how to enhance your future employment prospects, why not apply for work experience?

MITIE Group PLC provides facilities, property and asset management services for some of the biggest public and private sector businesses across the UK. It is passionate aboutits staff and the training and development opportunities itprovides.

This is why the company is offering a two-month part-timeplacement for an Assistant Resident Liaison Officer.

Travel expenses and a lunch allowance are payable. Also, ifyou are claiming Job Seekers Allowance you will still be able tokeep all of the benefit you receive.

CVs can be posted or hand-delivered to South Essex Homes,Cheviot House, 70 Baxter Avenue, Southend, Essex, SS2 6HZ orsent via email to: traceyhannington@seh.southend.gov.uk The application deadline is Friday 4th May.

There are a number of residents who have failed toobtain our permission in writing and this hascaused a number of pets to be housed in properties that are not necessarily suitable.

The updated procedure, created with the help ofstakeholders including residents and the Council’sAnimal Warden, should make it much clearer tostaff and residents where pets can live.

Once the updated procedure is finalised andadopted it will apply to all new tenants asking tokeep a pet from that point on. Those current residents who have an existing pet will be able to

keep them, subject to them not causing a nuisance, but will not be able to replace them without first obtaining written permission.

We will also be running pet road shows in thesummer months and will be encouragingresponsible pet ownership, providing neuteringcertificates and micro-chipping plus freeinformation and advice. Watch this space for moredetails.

If you currently have a pet but have not obtainedour written permission, please let us know so thatwe can amend our records.

5Receiving the Stonewall accreditation were (from left toright) Sam Adams, Tenancy Services Officer, Stuart Long,Service Development Manager and Steve Turner, SeniorTenancy Services Officer

Our updated procedure for petsSouth Essex Homes is looking to update the procedure for how we deal with tenants’pets. Youmay recall that the conditions of your tenancy were changed back in June 2008 and we advisedthat, “you must not keep any animals at your home unless you get our permission in writing”.

This Group has one of the largest memberships of all focusgroups supported by South Essex Homes. The discussion topics are relevant to a large proportion of our residents, for example, those who:

• Use wheelchairs or mobility scooters• Require walking sticks or crutches• Have hearing or sign problems• Live with conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular

disease, etc.

The focus group is an ideal opportunity for residents to discusstheir experiences with others and seek advice on independentliving, issues affecting people with disability and impairments and much more. Representatives from South Essex Homes andSouthend Borough Council also listen to the needs of disabledresidents and identify where specific disabled services can beimproved. They can also advise on various aids and adaptations,from wet rooms to stair lifts.

Current group chairman John Day, who is a resident at KestrelHouse, commented: “As a founder member I have seen the groupgrow from humble beginnings to what we have now, a groupthat understands the needs of South Essex Homes residents and does what it can to help them.”

Introducing - the Disability and Impairment Focus Group

Did you return the survey?

We were rated 65th on Stonewall’s AnnualWorkplace Equality Index – the nationalbenchmark for gay-friendly employers. This is one of Britain’s leading tools for helpingemployers to tackle discrimination in the workplace.

South Essex Homes was also the highestranked ALMO (arm’s length managementorganisation) on the list and is among the topfive social housing organisations.

Mike Gatrell, chief executive of South EssexHomes, said: “This is the first time we havebeen included on Stonewall’s list and I amdelighted that we have been recognisedalongside much larger organisations as a leading employer. We have always been proactive in promoting equality for our tenants and staff and I hope this is the start of many more recognitions to come.” To seethe full list please visit: www.stonewall.org.uk

Leading the way in equalitySouth Essex Homes has been recognised as one of the UK’s top 100 employersfor lesbian, gay and bisexual staff.

If you would like to join this focus group please contact :Tracey Hannington on 01702 212704.

S O M E R E S I D E N T F E E D B A C K :

“I enjoy coming to the meeting as I’m finding out more than if

I was at home.”

“The focus group is very helpful and

informative and I look forward to future meetings.”

“The knowledge on disability and impairment reflects the

increasingly diverse population ofSouthend.”

A personal message to Insight readers from Mike Gatrell, Chief Executive of South Essex Homes.

From the desk of the Chief Executive

If you’re struggling with rent or otherfinancial problems, please rememberthat South Essex Homes is here tohelp. We work closely with the CitizensAdvice Bureau (CAB), a positive partnership that is vital in helping residents to manage their debts andfinance. Like every local Council,Southend has had to increase rent levels from April 2012. . We appreciatethat some people may find this astruggle to cope with so the messagehere is: don’t suffer in silence. Call us inthe first instance via freephone 0800023 4057 and our Income team will bepleased to help. Where appropriate wecan also refer you to the CAB for genuine, tailored support.

Our work with CAB has enabled anincreasing number of residents tokeep their tenancies where they mayhave previously risked losing theirhome. We are also pleased that,despite the recession, there has beenno increase in the number of residents

in arrears. We see this as a positivesign that, despite household budgetsbeing spread more thinly, people aremanaging their money better.Meanwhile, we are working hard tounderstand the full implications of theGovernment’s welfare reform proposals for households and we willcontinue to support tenants as moreinformation becomes clear.

2012 also sees a new five yearpartnership with repairs and maintenance provider Kier commencefrom April. As always, we will involveresidents in monitoring the delivery of this service. We’d also like to saythank you to previous partner Lovellwho stepped in to provide short-termrepairs support after the demise ofConnaught.

We will continue to involve residentsin the planning and monitoring ofservices they receive, to ensure thatgood standards are maintained. As part of this, it would be remiss ofme not to acknowledge the recentnegative coverage in the mediaregarding crime and ASB issues insome of our tower blocks. Contrary tocertain reports, we are working hardwith the council, the police and resident groups to devise long-termsolutions to some of the problems(more details on page 5).

Our ongoing dedication to our

residents and staff is no better reflected than in two recent nationalachievements by South Essex Homes.Firstly, we have been listed for the firsttime in Stonewall’s Annual WorkplaceEquality Index which reflects our commitment to equality & diversity(read more on this story on page 11).We have also been re-accredited bythe Telecare Services Association forour Careline and community alarmsystems as operating at the highestlevel.

All this is set against an ‘eventful’ 2012,with Olympic fever already taking holdand the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee onlyweeks away - what better excuse toget outdoors to spend more qualitytime with neighbours, friends andfamily, take part in local events ororganise your own!

As always, South Essex Homes is opento your views and suggestions onwhat happens with your services orcommunity so don’t hesitate to get in touch via the details on page 2.

Best wishes

Mike Gatrell

Dear Readers,2012 is now in full swing and we are all continuing to feel the pinch,whether at work or in our home lives.

How long have you worked for South Essex Homes?Nikki – Seven years.Lauren – 19 months.

What is your ‘official’ job title?Both – We are Revenue Services Officers.

For residents who may not know what the RevenueServices Team is, please explain briefly what it does andwhat your roles in that team involve.Nikki – The Revenue Services Team is there to support residents of Southend Borough Council with paying theirrent. Lauren – As well as handling general, day-to-day rentqueries, we deal with accounts that have gone into rentarrears, which can mean attending court hearings, evictionsand Homeless Prevention interviews.

How does the work you do benefit residents and thecommunity?Lauren - We ensure that tenants receive the best advice andsupport needed in order to manage their finances.Nikki - We also aim to be visible and approachable to all ofour tenants to make it as easy as possible for them to seekthat advice.

What is your favourite part of the job you do?Both – Engaging with residents!Lauren - And assisting them to reduce their rent arrears.

What do you do to unwind outside of work? Nikki - Socialise with friends and family. Lauren – I like going out to dinner or the cinema with friends.

Who was the last famous person you spotted out and about, where were they and what were they doing?Nikki - Shane Richie in Aladdin at the Cliffs Pavilion.

Lauren - Nick Knowles, Anna Ryder Richardson and Les Dennis two years ago in the De Vere hotel inSouthampton. They were all waiting in the restaurant fortheir breakfast to be served!

What is your favourite place in Southend? Nikki – Chalkwell Beach.Lauren – Prittlewell Square.

What three words would you use to describe Southend? Lauren – Dynamic, multi-cultural town.Nikki – Up and Coming!

A Unique Insight into……a day in the life of the Revenue Services Team.

1 2 | UNIQUE INSIGHT FROM THE DESK OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE | 1 3

In every edition of Insight, we speak to a key South Essex Homes employee about their day-to-day roleand how their hard work benefits the residents of South Essex Homes and the community as a whole.

Chatting to Insight this time round are Lauren Anderson and Nikki Powell, both from the RevenueServices Team.

Don’t suffer in silence.Call us on 0800 023 4057

for tailored financialsupport.

Lauren Anderson, one of our Revenue Services Officers4

South Essex Homes has a range of leaflets on different service areas and the elements of your tenancy. Whether you want to ‘Pay your rent’, ‘Report a Repair’, learn what to do if you suspect ‘Domestic Abuse’or need advice about‘Decorating’, there’s a leaflet to help you. If you would like to receive any of these, or for a full list of the publications we offer,please contact us on our freephone number 0800 833 160.

Let our leaflets help

1 4 | JUST FOR FUN KIDS’ CORNER | 1 5

Everyone’s talking about the Olympic Games soon kicking off inLondon, but if you’re not going to the Games, that’s no reason tomiss out on the fun!

in Southend?With spring now underway and summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to plan a day out with family andfriends. Here are just a few ideas to inspire you. More information on most of the events below can be found at: www.visitsouthend.co.uk

WHAT IS IT?

Emily Griffiths - SopranoLunch time recital

Festival of the SeaFree taster sessions in sailing, windsurfing, kayakingand jet skiing, plus free boat rides. There will also bestalls set up on the beach and a demonstration by theRoyal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)

St Georges WeekendAn opportunity to celebrate great British heritage withstilt walkers, still statues, interesting facts/history, freeface painting and much more...

Film FestivalA week of film mania returns across a number of different venues in and around Southend. The programme includes more than 30 films, premieres, classics, shorts and international pictures, with guestquestion and answer sessions at many of the screenings.

AZTEC Southend Spring Garden ShowVisitors can purchase a selection of beautiful plants,shrubs, trees, garden furniture, water features, pots,containers and much more at special show prices.With crafts for the home and garden, tempting foodcourt and children’s activities, there really is somethingfor everyone making this an ideal family day out.

May Day on Strand WharfCrowning of the May Queen, Maypole dancing bylocal brownies, Mumming plays, Morris dancing andfolk music.

Wacky WeekendAdventure Island will have some truly wacky entertainment throughout the day and all for free! Youwill have to see it to believe it; with weird and wonderful entertainment from giant human slinkies,to a crazy piano playing musical nun!

Community Event 2012

Wednesday 18th April 12.15-1pmSouthend Civic Centre

Saturday 21st April 9.30am-2.30pm Southend Marine ActivitiesCentre

Saturday 21st, Sunday 22nd AprilAdventure Island Southend

Thursday 3rd - Monday 7th May Southend Town Centre

Saturday 5th - Monday 7thMay. 9.30am-5pm Garon Park

Saturday 5th - Monday 7thMay. 9.30am-5pm Strand Wharf, Leigh High Street.

Saturday 12th, Sunday 13th May Adventure Island Southend.

Wednesday 15th August,11am – 4pmSouthchurch Park

There will also be half hour taster sessionsin sailing, windsurfing and kayaking. Thesewill be £5.00 per session and will need tobe booked in advance.

Event entertainment and entrance toAdventure Island is free however wristbands/tickets need to be purchasedfor ride access.

Suitable for the whole family

Tickets: Adults - Gate Price £9, OnlinePrice - £6. Concessions - Gate Price £7, OnlinePrice - £5. Children (under 16) - Gate Price £3,Online Price - £1.Dogs are permitted on a lead

Free face painting for all the kids too.

Come along and join in the fun!Volunteers are also needed to help on the day; all contributions are welcome.Please contact Shirley O Reilly for moreinformation on 07876116552 (mobile)

WHEN CAN I GO?WHERE IS IT?

ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?

Well, we would like to set up a flashmob group in Southend and need your help! The idea is to get residents of all ages together to perform seemingly impromptu dances at

various places and events in Southend. If you want to get involved in this exciting new project,please contact the Resident Involvement Team on 0800 833 160.

Flashmob!

Spot the difference!

1. SOCK SHOTPUT- a throwing competition. You will need: numerous pairs of socksand three hoops. Line the hoops up one after the other withgaps in between (the first hoop will be positioned closest tothe starting line and the third furthest away). Ensure there isa sufficiently challenging gap between where the participant stands and the first hoop. Teams take it in turnsto throw a sock into a hoop. The first hoop is worth 10points, the second 15 and the third 20.

2. SPEEDY FOOTBALL Mark the playing space with cones for the goals.There will be two cones marking the sides of eachgoal and the team to get the first goal will win thetournament (or for a longer game, the first teamto get to three goals wins). Winning team gets 20 points; losing team 10.

3. UNDER AND OVER - obstaclecourse. This will consist of hoops contendershave to go under, through and over, bean bags torun around and a last hoop to wear and run to thefinish line. (To make it even more interesting, youalso have the option to ask players to throw the last beanbag to the finish line before completingthe race with a hoop around their waist). The firstteam to finish is the winning team. Winning teamgets 20 points; losing team 10.

Prize ideas: you can buy plastic gold medalscomplete with different colours ribbons cheaplyon the Internet. Alternatively, why not use goldchocolate coins tied onto string for the winnersand silver chocolate coins tied onto string for runners-up. This way, everyone gets rewarded for taking part!

You may have seen the T-Mobile adverts in which hundreds of people suddenly start performing a choreographed dance in a busy train station –this random type of activity is known as a ‘flashmob’.

What’s on

Can you find and circle the five differences between these two versionsof the Diamond Jubilee emblem?

Send your answers by 4th May 2012 toSouth Essex Homes with your name, ageand address (our address is on page 2). This competition is for children under theage of 10.

Congratulations to last issue’s winner, Miss Poppy Divine from Leigh on Sea,who has received a gift voucher.Well done!

We’ve devised a mini Olympics tournament to try with your family and friends, either in your garden, the park or on an outing to the countryside or beach!