your homes magazine - summer 2016

Your Homes Coast & Country

Coast & CountryIssue 8 | Spring/Summer 2016

Building Work Progresses at The Dunes

WHAT’S INSIDE?

Let’s Spring into Summer Pages 16-17

Community Focus Scheme Pages 19

Rent Free Week 0

www.coastandcountryhousing.org.uk

2 Your Homes Coast & Country

WelcomeWelcome from the Tenant Communications Panel 3Meet our Involved Tenants 4-5

In the NewsCleveland Fire Support Sponsorship 6Company Charities 6The Shore, Redcare 7The Dunes, Redcare 7HomeCall Customer Turns 100 8Not Letting The Grass Grow Under Your Feet 9

MoneyUniversal Credit 10Rent Free Week 10Benefit Sanctions 11Rent – Ways to Pay 11

DigitalDo you Need Help to get Online? 12Be Online Campaign 12How to Check and Pay our Rent Online 13

Journey to WorkWork Experience with Coast & Country 14First Aid Training 15Work Hubs 15

Let’s Spring into Summer 16-17

For YouRe:Furnishing? 18Community Centres 19Community Focus Scheme 19Missed Appointments 19Westfield Farm – The Opportunities are Endless! 20-21

Safe and SoundIs Your Home Gas Safe? 22Ask a Gas Man 23Home Insurance 24-25Immediate Lets 26HomeCall 27

Contact Us 28

Contents

Important contacts Coast & Country Housing01642 77130007860017148 [email protected]

Rent Services 01642 771326/771327 [email protected]

Benefit and Money Advice 01642 771424

Welfare Reform 01642 771367 [email protected]

HomeCall Independent Living Services 01642 771339 [email protected]

Gas Team 01642 771300

For a full list of contact details, please see the back page.

If you require an out of hours emergency repair, please call

01642 771300

3Your Homes Coast & Country

Hello readers, we hope you had a wonderful Easter and that you’re looking forward to some warmer weather as summer draws ever closer.

Welcome from the Tenant Communications Panel

It’s hard to believe we’re already writing our next edition, but you’ll be pleased to know you can Spring into Summer on pages 16 – 17 with information on free and low-cost activities to keep the family entertained over the next few months.

We’d like to draw your attention to page 7 where you’ll find the latest information on the building of The Dunes, one of our Redcare projects; a scheme across Redcar & Cleveland to provide support for people to live independently for longer. Redcare is such a fantastic scheme, so make sure to have a read.

On page 10, you’ll find information about how to get a ‘rent free week’ when you need it most.

Whether you’re booking a holiday, need new school uniforms, or want to find the perfect gift, take a look at the article to find out more.

Finally, we’re really excited to tell you about Coast & Country’s Community Focus Scheme. If you are looking to set up a resident group to improve your local area, you’ll definitely want to find out more. Take a look at page 19 to see how the company can help you.

Until next time, that’s all from us!

01642 771300 www.coastandcountryhousing.org.uk

Ian Tait, Member, RedcarI was a former Board Member but wanted to remain involved with the Company, so I joined the RSG. I like being able to make a difference from a tenant’s point of view.

Christine Holmes, Member, EstonI attended an open day to meet the team and I’ve now been a member for over two years. I love getting together with the other members to help make a difference to tenants.

Peter Hodson, Member, GuisboroughWhen I retired I wanted to give something back to the community; I’ve been a tenant for 10 years, so I looked into ways of getting involved with Coast & Country.

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Welcome

• Completed two scrutiny exercises for Independent Living Services and Repair Satisfaction Surveys and reported findings to Board • Made good links with North Star Housing • Received Heart Start Training from the Fire Brigade and completed some IT training • The Chair attended a ‘Think Tank’ on Government Cuts, Changes and Challenges.

Here’s some of the things we have done over the past year…

There are a wide range of other ways to get involved, each with different levels of commitment to suit you! We’d like to say a huge thanks to every tenant who is currently involved – and wish Reg McMeekin all the best for the future after retiring from the Tenants Panel in April. You are all fantastic.

Dorothy Mead, Member, SaltburnI had been involved in various focus groups in the past, but wanted to find a new way to get involved. The RSG is fantastic; the projects are hard work but very rewarding.

Stuart Saunders, Vice Chair, EstonThe RSG has enabled me to have an effective voice within the Company in order to shape the services that directly affect tenants and make a positive difference.


Ann Sutherland, Chair, RedcarI joined the RSG as I’m passionate about finding ways to improve the community. I have lived in Redcar all my life and have a real interest in the local area.

Meet our Involved Resident Scrutiny GroupThe Residents’ Scrutiny Group forms an essential part of Coast & Country’s governance framework. We test services against the expectations of tenants to make sure that the Company’s performance is at its highest standards. We look at quality, value for money and help teams to identify areas for improvement.

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• Taken part in several courses regarding the Welfare State and Universal Credit • Received training on First Aid and Food Hygiene • Supported the promotion of Men’s Shed (a local charity) • Promoted the use of Me & My Home to tenants • Been involved in shadowing different departments in the Company • Attended seminars at the Police HQ on Anti-social Behaviour • And much more!

Here’s some of the things we have done over the past year…

Tenants…

Anita Robertson, Member, EstonJoining the TP was the best thing I’ve ever done! After being housebound for a few years, I wanted to get out and start making a difference. I’ve increased my knowledge of the Company and also had the opportunity for personal development.

Jeanette Cochrane, Member, RedcarGetting involved with the TP has been great. We get to meet groups from other housing associations to share ideas on how to improve the services provided to tenants.

Linda Beel, Member, RedcarAs a carer for my husband, I needed a new interest that would be flexible and was keen to become involved within the housing sector. One of my favourite parts of the TP is being able to work with people from a range of different backgrounds.

Joan Cann, Member, RedcarDuring my working life I gained a great deal of knowledge in customer service, so I felt I had a lot to offer in terms of resident involvement. I really enjoy being involved and have benefitted from the training provided.


Kim Gallagher, Chair, TeesvilleI’m honoured to be Chair of the Tenant Panel, helping to improve tenants’ experiences with Coast & Country. I really feel valued as a tenant and know that my thoughts and opinions will be taken on-board.

Alice Parry, Member, SpencerbeckI’ve lived in Spencerbeck for over 14 years and wanted to get involved to help tackle some of the issues arising around welfare reform, as well as helping to shape the services provided to tenants.

Val Watson, Vice Chair, RedcarI’ve been a member for over two years now and I love it. I had a lot of spare time and wanted to help others, and I can honestly say the TP has been extremely rewarding.

Call us on 01642 771300 for more information.

Tenant PanelThe Tenant Panel have a wide and varied role; in between setting high standards of customer care and shaping or reviewing policies, we work closely with teams across the Company to make sure that the voice of tenants is reflected in every area of the business. Whatever Coast & Country do, we are involved, making valuable recommendations and giving the Company the benefit of our experience.


In the news

Cleveland Fire Support SponsorshipWe’re delighted to announce that our fantastic Charities Group has recently donated £500 to the Cleveland Fire Support Network.

Cleveland Fire Support Network provides training and services, such as CPR training and home fire safety visits, to communities across Redcar and Cleveland.

The charity already works with Coast & Country tenants who have impaired hearing to install and maintain sensory loss smoke alarms. Instead of making the usual high pitched alarm tone when triggered, these alarms use vibration and light to alert the resident to the danger.

The donation comes from our Charitable Support and Sponsorship Fund. It will be used to train an additional five volunteers from the area to carry out much-needed home fire safety visits. They will also install sensory loss alarms for vulnerable residents, the elderly, people with sensory loss, and those recovering from the trauma of a fire in their home.

000000526 0000000005 12982

12982Nº

Company CharitiesCoast & Country Housing staff have raised

over £15,500 since April 2013 to support

our company charities, Great North Air

Ambulance, Zoe’s Place and Cancer

Research. With 3 years of fundraising,

dedicated staff have hosted a range of

charitable events including ladies spa days,

golfing events, race nights, raffles, blind

cards and even the annual Boxing Day

Dip. One of the most recent events, a race

night, held at The Whale Hill Social Club in

Eston, raised over £500, bringing the 3 year

fundraising total to over £15,500.

Coast and Country employees will spend the

next 3 years raising money in a number of

ways, including sports challenges and social

events to support three newly

selected charities:

• Macmillan Cancer Support

• Teesside Hospice

• South Cleveland Heart Fund

£15,500Raised over

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The Dunes, in Redcar, is an innovative development of 64 one and two bedroom extra care apartments for rent. The site will have extensive communal facilities, with on-site care and support available 24/7, 365 days a year.

From the design, to the build, to the creation of a dedicated and experienced support network, every element of The Dunes is being carefully crafted to provide a modern, future-proofed, secure and supportive environment for people aged over 55. The Dunes will provide the comfort, care and support residents need now and in the future. With specially designed features to meet the evolving needs of its occupiers, and 24/7 access to a range of on-site support services, an apartment at The Dunes is a home for life.

Within The Dunes development, space will be leased to local businesses such as a hairdressing salon and a bistro, providing residents with access to a range of additional facilities on their doorstep. But this isn’t all – the facilities are also open to the wider community, as they’re invited to make use of the amenities on offer. Not only does this benefit the whole community, but helps counter some of the issues experienced by residents, such as social isolation.

As with everything Coast & Country does, Redcare provides so much more than just housing. Redcare offers older people a better living and lifestyle choice and is generating new business and employment opportunities across Redcar and Cleveland.


Since our last edition we have proudly opened our very first Redcare development, The Shore in Ormesby.

We have worked with Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and developer Galliford Try Partnerships North to build this fantastic new development which provides 12 high quality, one bedroom apartments for individuals with learning disabilities.

With 24/7 on-site support, The Shore allows its tenants to live independently whilst also allowing for that extra care tailored to each individual’s needs. Community activities will also be provided at the development, allowing the tenants to build great relationships with each other and the on-site staff.

Following the successful launch of The Shore, we were delighted to begin building our second Redcare development in Redcar. The second development, The Dunes, aims to provide lifetime homes for over 55s.

For more information on Redcare visit www.redcare-extracare.co.uk.


Asked the secret to her longevity, Isabelle said: “Spending so long working with children has helped keep me young, although I must admit sometimes I feel 120!

“I don’t get out as much as I used to but Allison from HomeCall comes and takes me out for a trip to the shop and the like, which helps keep me active.”

In the news

8

HomeCall Customer Turns 100

Isabelle, who was born on 21 March 1916, first moved into her Bankfields home in the 1980s and has continued to live independently with the assistance of the HomeCall service.

Originally from South Bank, Isabelle worked as a nurse treating injured soldiers in Swindon during World War Two before moving back to Teesside to become a paediatric nurse at Durham Road Children’s Hospital and Middlesbrough Maternity Hospital.

HomeCall team members visited Isabelle to present her with flowers, gifts and a cake to mark the momentous occasion at her home overlooking the Eston Hills which she climbed many times as a youngster!

100If you’re interested in the service HomeCall has to offer see page 27 for more details.

Jason Lowe, Head of Independent Living (pictured above) said:

“To reach such a tremendous milestone is an achievement in itself, but the fact that Isabelle is living in her own home and living independently at 100 is truly amazing, and incredibly rewarding for us that HomeCall has helped Isabelle achieve this.”

One of our tenants, Isabelle Brown, has celebrated her 100th birthday at the home she’s lived in for more than 30 years. Thanks in part, to the support of our very own Independent Living Service, HomeCall.

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Unfortunately, due to the Government’s imposed 1% rent reduction, we have had to reduce the number for staff we employ to look after our green areas. To reflect this reduction in staff, we have reduced our Planned Cutting Programme from 15 times, as in previous years, to 12 times throughout the season.

The team work hard to cut the grass on a 13 day rolling programme (weather permitting) over a 34 week programme. The cutting season started on Monday 14 March and will run until Friday 28 October.

We understand at times that things may appear to be overlooked or you feel there isn’t enough urgency in these areas, but we can assure you that the reduced team work incredibly hard to ensure our outdoor areas are cut, pruned and spruced.

With the reduction of staff and of time assigned to gardening works, not to mention adverse weather conditions to contend with, we feel that staff are doing a great job under difficult circumstances. We ask you to be mindful of this before contacting us to discuss works of this kind.


Not Letting The Grass Grow Under Your FeetOur Estate Team have a wide and varied work load including, looking after 1,000,000 square metres of land, 50,000 square metres of shrub beds, 27,000 trees, 790 gardens, chemical applications in 36 estates, and lots more.

Money

As you will have seen in previous editions, we have been working hard to ensure our tenants are prepared and in the best possible position for the introduction of Universal Credit.

Universal Credit is the benefit system replacing income support and income based job seekers allowance, housing benefit, tax credits and income based employment and support allowance, and it has now been introduced in Redcar and Cleveland.

The first group affected by Universal Credit is single job seekers only, for example if a single person loses their job, they will now need to apply for Universal Credit.

If you are going to be affected by these changes, or have already been affected and unsure what to do, here are some helpful tips:

• You will need a bank or building society account – have you got one?

• You will need to apply for the benefit online – do you have access to the internet and do you feel comfortable using it?

• You will be paid in arrears – are you confident that you can budget and monitor your spend to get you through the initial payment period and the future?

• You will be responsible for paying your rent directly to the landlord – do you know how, when and how much you need to pay?

If you have answered ‘no’ to one or more of these questions, don’t worry help is at hand!

Our Welfare Reform Team will help with any questions you may have to make the transition to Universal Credit as quick and easy as possible – just call 01642 771367.

Universal Credit


Rent Free WeekDid you know that if you pay a little extra on your rent each week and build up enough credit, you can have a rent free week when you need it most? Whether it’s for school uniforms, holidays, Christmas or New Year, start saving a little bit extra today to help you in the future.

Your rent officer can help you work out how much extra you would need to pay. Just call 01642 771326 or 01642 771327.

Has your Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) been sanctioned? If so, you may receive JSA at a reduced rate from 4 weeks to 3 years.

If you think you have a good reason for not meeting the work-related requirements in your ‘claimant commitment’, or the decision maker doesn’t have all the facts, you should ask them to look again at their decision.

This is called a ‘reconsideration’, where DWP looks at the facts of your case and make a new decision. If the ‘reconsideration’ is successful your Jobseekers will be backdated and paid from the date it was stopped. If they do not change their decision, you can appeal within one month.

If your payment has been stopped, you may be able to claim a hardship payment, which is paid at a reduced rate of JSA. You also need to keep looking for work; otherwise you could risk your benefit being stopped for longer.

You will need to let Housing Benefits know your JSA has been sanctioned, however your housing benefit should continue to be paid at the same rate. You will still need to pay your rent and other household bills, such as council tax, gas and electricity.

If you need any help to dispute your jobseekers sanction or to claim hardship payments, please call our Benefit & Money Advice Caseworker on 01642 836056.

Benefit Sanctioned? – ACT NOW!


Your Homes Coast & Country 11

Making sure your rent is paid couldn’t be easier. The best way to pay is by direct debit; it’s done automatically so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment and it’s also really safe and simple to set up, just call us on the number below to set up yours. Here are some other ways you can pay:

• Online using Coast & Country’s Me & My Home portal (www.meandmyhome.org.uk)

• Online using allpay at www.allpayments.net (debit cards only)

• At any Post Office in the UK

• Any outlet that displays the Paypoint sign

• By telephone. Call us on 01642 771326/771327 between 8.30am - 5pm Monday to Thursday and 8.30am - 4.30pm on Fridays. You’ll need your debit or credit card handy.

Outside of office hours, you can call 0844 5578321. You will need your rent swipe card and your debit or credit card ready when you call.

If you have any queries about your rent, or would like to set up a Direct Debit, contact the Rents Team on 01642 771326/771327.

Rent – Ways to pay

Housing Benefit backdate rules are changingIf you are of working age, the maximum time your housing benefit can be backdated is reducing from 6 months to one month. You will need to show you have a good reason for not claiming earlier.


Do you Need Help to get Online?Whether you’re preparing for the introduction of Universal Credit*, looking for jobs, or would simply like to discover the benefits of getting online, we can help.

We have a brilliant team of Digital Champions who volunteer in the local community to help people get online. Whether you’ve never used the internet before, or have but never really got the hang of it, Digital Champions can help you. They can also assist with the basics of using a computer, laptop or tablet.

Come along to one of our sessions or arrange an appointment to receive one-to-one support by calling 01642 771307.• Tues 1pm – 3pm - South Bank Library

• Wed 1pm – 3pm - Westfield Farm, Dormanstown

*You must be online to access Universal Credit. See page 10 for more information.

Digital

Be Online CampaignDid you know that over 10 million people are not online?

The Be Online campaign was launched by UK Online Centres to encourage more people to improve their digital skills.

At Coast & Country our aim is to help everyone get online, which is why we supported this campaign in February. We wanted to give something back to our community by providing digital tutorials in our local areas to help people to make the most of the internet, with a particular focus on using devices such as smartphones and tablets.

As more and more services, such as job searching and Universal Credit, move to online platforms, we want to help ensure everyone (no matter what age) has basic digital skills.

The campaign was an ideal opportunity to target people who had received smartphones or tablets for Christmas and our wonderful team of Digital Champions were hard at work to advise people how to use their new devices and also show people the basics of internet searching, downloading apps, accessing emails.

Being online can also help people stay in touch with family and friends, save money on household bills, access training and employment opportunities.

Don’t worry if you missed out, you’ll find the dates and times of our Digital Champions sessions in the article to the left or one-to-one appointments can also be arranged for those who are a little less confident.

Could you benefit from exploring a new world online?

Call 01642 771307 to find out more.

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Check and Pay Rent Online


Register on our website: www.coastandcountryhousing.org.uk/do-it-online

You will need your tenancy number (which you can find on your tenancy agreement or a rent statement) and an email address to use this service.

Staying in control has never been easier; don’t delay – register with Me & My Home today!

Did you know you can check and pay your rent from the comfort of your own home?

Register with Me & My Home for a quick and easy way to check your rent balance, make payments, request repairs and keep your details up-to-date.


Journey to work

Work Experience with Coast & Country…In March we welcomed 17 year old Kieran Stirzaker for two weeks work experience; part of a 12-week personal development programme run by The Prince’s Trust in association with Stockton Riverside College. Kieran spent time with a variety of departments within Coast & Country and wanted to share his experience.

“To begin, I started in the Contact Centre seeing how the calls are handled, I then moved onto the Community Investment team where I learnt how they help in the community with some great initiatives. The first week was rounded off with a day in the Marketing and Communications department, followed by a day with the Assurance team, where I found out how reception functions, how board meetings are set up and the daily post routine.

“The second week began with two days in the HomeCall team, learning about the innovative technology used to help keep people safe in their homes. Mid-week, I spent another day with the Marketing and Communications team, where I gained hands-on experience in social media marketing, and I even had the opportunity to use the design software. I was looking forward to my final two days with the Tenancy Advice team as much as the rest and when I had finished, I didn’t want to leave!

“I would definitely recommend this work experience to anyone in my age group who isn’t too sure on what they want to do and are curious about the working world. In my opinion the best part of the company was the friendly environment and how truly welcome I was made to feel.”

It was a pleasure working with Kieran and we’re delighted that he got so much out of his time here. To find out more about work experience placements with Coast & Country, contact the HR Team on 01642 837275.

“Coast & Country is a great place to gain experience of the working world because of the wide and varied remit they cover, the welcoming staff and friendly environment.”

Innovative £7m schemeto help thousands

Specialist advisers can support you by: • One to one Information, advice and support • Access to employment opportunities • Offering a range of training courses,

work experience placements

• Mentoring• Confidence building• CV, Application Form and Interview support. • On-going support once you are in work

Thousands of unemployed young people across the Tees Valley are set to be helped into learning and work thanks to an innovative £7m scheme.Coast & Country Housing, Thirteen Group, North Star Housing, Actes and New College Durham have joined forces in a unique partnership to successfully win European funding to deliver a vital new Youth Employment Initiative (YEI).

Through the scheme, people aged 15 to 29 who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), will be able to access specialist support thanks to the European Social Fund and Youth Employment Initiative funding.

Advisors will be on hand to identify a range of training and practical support options, including mentoring, apprenticeships, job placements and further education, to find a job that will enable them

to reach their potential. The project will also include a flexible fund to assist young people in overcoming the barriers such as the lack of the right skills preventing them progressing and finding the right employment.

Tracy O’Neill, Directory of Customer Services said:


Want a job? Want to earn your own money? Are you aged 15-29?

New Directions offers young people aged 15-29, the help and advice they need to improve their skills and get a job.

If you or someone you know is aged between 15-29, and needs our help then call the New Directions Team on 01642 771308 or email [email protected]

A Tees Valley YEI initiative

A Tees Valley YEI initiative

“We are very pleased to be part of this important project, delivering support for young people across Redcar and Cleveland who may be struggling to gain work or training. We have considerable experience and expertise in providing support through our own initiatives and look forward to working with New College Durham and the other partners offering help, advice and practical solutions to enable young people to reach their full potential.”

Your Homes Coast & Country16

Let’s Spring into Summer

Our handy guide to family days out for less during the Spring and Summer holidays.

Wish You Were Here…

• Have a trip to the beach

We’re lucky to live in an area with a beautiful stretch

of seaside, so if the sun is out why not have a day at

the beach? Redcar beach even offers donkey rides!

• Take in the surroundings at the Valley Gardens

You may even wish to visit the Saltburn Woodlands Centre situated half way down the valley,

where you can get a nice cuppa and piece of cake, or why not take a picnic?

• Stroll through Guisborough Forest and Walkway

It contains a variety of habitats, including wetland, farmland and woodland and there are also play

areas for the kids to enjoy.

• Look and learn at Kirkleatham Museum

There’s a wide range of activities to suit the whole family, including hands on craft activities, local

artist exhibitions, seasonal events, a super new wooden play park plus much more!

• Enjoy a visit to the Dorman Museum

This fantastic museum in Middlesbrough has 8 permanent display galleries and 2 changing

exhibition spaces on two floors. After visiting the museum, why not make a day of it and also visit

Albert Park? It’s just a short walk away.

Free days out Free

There may be small charges applied for special events and activities.



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• Brick Planet, Kirkleatham Museum If you love Lego, you’ll love this exhibition. Running from 7th May – 11th July. Adults £3.50, Children £1.50, Family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children £8.50)• Recently opened Saltburn Minigolf

Fun for all the family and only £3 per person, or £10 for a group of 4. Situated

on the Lower Promenade.• Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum, Skinningrove

Jump into the history of ironstone mining and how it influenced everyday life of the surrounding

villages in Teesside. Adults £6, Over 60s £5.50, Children (5 – 15 years) £3, free for under 5s,

Family (2 Adults and 2 Children) £15.• Kirkleatham Owl Centre Flying displays, meet the baby owls, photo opportunities and other on-site activities are held

every day during the season’s school holidays. Adults £3.50, Senior Citizens £3, Children

(Under 16 years) £2.20, Family Ticket (2 Adults and up to 3 children) £9.95

Places to visit

• Jump 360, Stockton

An exciting and exhilarating indoor trampoline

park experience like nothing you have ever seen

before! Prices vary depending on specified session.

Visit www.jump360.co.uk or call 01642 671360.

• Clip ‘n Climb, Stockon

Climbing walls meet theme park in this exciting new leisure activity for all ages above 4.

There are 24 challenges to attempt in your 90 minute session. Visit www.clipnclimbstockton.co.uk

Booking is essential – call 01642 605688.

• Ice Skating, Billingham Forum

Whether you’re an ice skating expert or are trying it for the first time, Billingham Forum is the

place to go for their ‘Simply Skating’ sessions. Timetables and prices can be found at

www.teesactive.co.uk or by calling 01642 551381.

• Air Trail, Tees Barrage, Stockton

There are 38 unique challenges at the UK’s biggest Sky Trail high ropes adventure course! It’s fun for all the

family situated high above the River Tees, with a selection of stepping stones, tight ropes, zip wires and much

more! For more information visit www.airtrail.co.uk

Further afield £

£

Re:Furnish is a fantastic place to buy fabulous pre-loved furniture and household items without breaking the bank! They offer an affordable, high quality alternative to high street stores, with the extra benefit of a low cost delivery service.

Re:Furnish have a wide range of items available in store, from sofas and chairs to pots and pans, so why not pop in and take a look around?

Don’t delay, pick up a bargain for your home today at: Re:Furnish Emporium, Diamond Street, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, TS12 1EB

Re:Furnishing?Whether you’re looking to get rid of unwanted furniture, redecorating, or are simply looking for a new item for your home, Re:Furnish has it all.

You can find us on Facebook by searching ‘Re:Furnish Emporium’ and view our newest additions to the store or contact us: 01287 622325 or visit the website: www.re-furnish.org.uk

For you



From 1 December 2015 – 1 March 2016, the number of missed repairs appointments due to no access was 955. Each missed appointment costs the Company around £50, so for three months alone this adds up to a huge £47,750!

There’s a quick and simple way to resolve this – by providing us with your most up-to-date contact details, we can then ensure you are reminded about upcoming appointments.

This means you can make sure someone is home or rearrange your appointment for a more suitable time. It also helps us put this large amount of money back into your communities.

To update your personal details call our Contact Centre on 01642 771300, or sign up for Me & My Home (details can be found on page 13)

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We have seven community centres across Redcar & Cleveland ready and waiting for you to hire!

• Are you a fitness instructor looking for a venue for your fitness class?

• Or maybe you’re a parent looking for the ideal location for your child’s party.

If so, for only £8 per hour, we may have just the centre for you.

All of our centres have full disabled access and well equipped kitchens - you are also free to bring your own caterers if you choose to.

Community Centre locations:

• Cliff Houlding Centre, Dormanstown• Severn Road, Redcar• Sleights Court, Guisborough• Luke Senior Hall, Loftus• Wykeham Court, Skelton• Birkdale Drive, Eston• Oakley Walk, Normanby

For more information, to check availability or to book call 01642 836060.

Community Centres

Community Focus SchemeAre you a part of a community group bringing together residents to make a difference in your local area?

Here at Coast & Country we believe these groups are essential for the creation of strong and sustainable communities. We are committed to their development and offer support to either existing groups or newly forming groups through our Community Focus Scheme.

Under the scheme you can get access to the following:

• Start up support and advice• £150 annual grant

• Advance notice of Coast & Country events and other community events

• Volunteering opportunities to develop group members skills

• Advice to help you market and promote your group

• Access to Westfield Farm, our training and resource centre.

To apply for the Community Focus Scheme, you simply need to complete an application form, which can be found by visiting www.coastandcountryhousing.org.uk or for more information call 01642 836060.

Missed appointments adds up to £47,750!

For you

Westfield Farm –‘Volunteer in a Million’Our wonderful community training and resource centre has gone from strength to strength since its opening in 2012, and we’re delighted to say it’s still providing fantastic opportunities four years on.

Whether you’re job searching or looking for help to get online, Westfield Farm offers a welcoming, friendly environment for all, but did you know a lot of the faces you see at The Farm are volunteers? They’re a brilliant group of people who help us with the day-to-day running of The Farm; from gardening to signing visitors in on reception – we couldn’t do it without them.

One volunteer we’d like to say a special thanks to is our ‘Volunteer in a Million’, Harry Slattery.

Harry has been volunteering at The Farm since 2013 and has made a huge impact in the local community over the last few years. To help others gain valuable experience in planting, growing and even cultivating small areas, Harry has run training courses for volunteers and service users in his spare time.

He also directly helps charitable causes by growing vegetables for the Redcar Foodbank and selling vegetables and bedding plants with the money raised going to benefit a variety of local charities. His talents don’t end at gardening.

Harry also creates handmade, recycled Christmas cards and paints beautiful pictures of local landmarks.

Over the years, Harry has become extremely well respected in the local community and has even helped the children at Dormanstown Primary School create a leaflet detailing the history of the local area.

So we’d like to say a huge thank you to Harry, and all of our volunteers, for helping us to create and maintain a range of services to the local community from a beautiful building.



Meet our newest volunteers!We would also like to take this opportunity to introduce some of our newest volunteers:

• Ian Blake, Receptionist – Mondays, 10am – 12pm• Steve Wright, Receptionist – Fridays, 10am – 12pm

And our gardening volunteers:

• Paul Allan• Jeffrey Allan • Andrew Realff • Eddie Brundell

Why not pay a visit to Westfield Farm and meet our lovely team?

We’re always on the lookout for new faces to join our team of volunteers, so if you have a couple of hours spare each week and would like to find out more, visit www.coastandcountryhousing.org.uk/volunteering or call us on 01642 771387.

The Friends of Westfield FarmTo ensure that this beautiful building is used to its full potential, the Friends of Westfield Farm meet on the last Friday of every month from 2pm – 4pm to discuss new and exciting ideas for The Farm to benefit the local community.

This varies from coffee mornings and fundraising events, to suggestions for training courses - all ideas are welcomed.

If you think you can bring something new to the group or would like to find out more, call us on 01642 771300.

You can also find the group on Facebook, just search ‘Friends of Westfield Farm’ and join the Facebook group to stay up to date with the latest activities and events.

You don’t have to be a volunteer to benefit from Westfield Farm…We run a Work Hub at The Farm on Wednesdays between 9:30am – 12:30pm where you can receive professional information, advice and guidance on the following:

• CV and application forms• Interview preparation• Universal Job Match• Training opportunities

• Help with the internet and lots more.

So come along and join us to see how we can help you!

Looking for work?

The Opportunities are Endless!

22

Digital

KNOW THE FACTS

IS YOUR HOME GAS SAFE?The best way to find out is to ensure you have a yearly gas safety check – if you are a tenant, your landlord, by law, is responsible for this.

WAYS YOU CAN HELP KEEP YOUR HOME GAS SAFE:

DON’T

DO

Cover or obstruct gas fires, boilers or flues with clothing or other objects

Paint the casings of gas fires or boilers

Remove your smoke alarm

Take batteries out of your smoke alarm

Remove or reposition the carbon monoxide detector

Block or restrict air vents

Operate gas cookers for long periods with windows closed

Allow us access to carry out an annual gas safety check

Tell us immediately if your carbon monoxide detector is beeping and open windows

Get written permission from your landlord before you install your own heating appliances



23


ASKA GAS MANJoin us at one of our Gas Drop-In sessions where our Gas Team will be on hand to answer any of your gas related questions, explain the importance of maintaining safe gas appliances, and teach you how to identify the silent killer carbon monoxide.

We’re proud to be part of the sixth annual National Gas Safety Awareness Week, 19-25 September. Look out on our website for information about the events and activities we are planning for this very important week.

DATE TIME LOCATION

Thursday 16 June 9am-12pm Redcar Library, Kirkleatham St, Redcar, Cleveland TS10 1RT

Thursday 21 July 9am-12pm Grangetown Library, 172 Birchington Avenue, Middlesbrough TS6 7LP

Friday 26 August 9am-12pm Birkdale Drive Community Centre, 36a Birkdale Drive, Eston, Middlesbrough TS6 9EB

www.coastandcountryhousing.org.uk

IF YOU THINK YOUR HOME IS NOT GAS SAFE:

Call 0800 111 999 National Gas Emergency Service

Coast & Country tenants also call 01642 771300

Your Homes Coast & Country 23


It only takes a few inches of water to put you knee deep in debt In recent months, there has been a number of high profile flooding events across the country, including the North East area. A flood can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage to your personal possessions and cause devastation. However, with home contents insurance you can have the peace of mind that your valuables are covered should the worst occur and your property become flooded.

Coast & Country offer tenants a great price insurance* that provides both valuable protection and peace of mind. Our home contents insurance offers you:

• No excess to pay if you need to make a claim

• Prices from as little as 61p per week

• The cost remains the same even if you make a claim

• Simple+ offers accidental damage

• New for old cover

Cost of CoverAll premiums are inclusive of Insurance Premium Tax at the current rate.

If you would like to take out our home contents insurance, just complete the application form opposite and return to: Coast & Country Insurance Team, 14 Ennis Square, Dormanstown, TS10 5JR or your local housing office.

For further information on the scheme, please call us on 01642 771373.

SUM INSUREDWEEKLY COST

Simple Simple+

£6,000 £0.61 £1.27

£7,000 £0.71 £1.48

£8,000 £0.81 £1.69

£9,000 £0.91 £1.91

£10,000 £1.02 £2.12

£11,000 £1.12 £2.33

£12,000 £1.22 £2.54

£13,000 £1.32 £2.75

£14,000 £1.42 £2.96

£15,000 £1.52 £3.18

£16,000 £1.63 £3.39

£17,000 £1.73 £3.60

£18,000 £1.83 £3.81

£19,000 £1.93 £4.02

£20,000 £2.03 £4.23

Safe and Sound

*Insurance cover provided by Royal & Sun Alliance plc


Name of your Housing Association Coast & Country Housing

Name of Applicant 1 (Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms): Date of Birth:

Name of Applicant 2 (Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms): Date of Birth:

Joint applicants must be named and must sign this form otherwise cover for them will not be in force.

Address of your home to be insured:

Postcode:

Precise Occupations: Applicant 1

Applicant 2

Rent Reference Number:

Telephone Number:

Cover required (Please tick one): Simple

Simple+

Amount of insurance cover required (to the nearest £1,000): £

Do you require the extension in cover for Personal Belongings?

Do you require extension in cover for Wheelchairs?

Do you require the extension in cover for Hearing Aids?

Do you require the extension in cover for Garden huts, outbuildings, garages and greenhouses up to £500?

Date you want the insurance to start from:

Whenever we ask questions on the application form about your family, we mean you or any of the following people providing they normally live with you; your husband; wife or partner; children (including foster children) your relatives; your domestic employees

1. Have you or any member of your family who normally live with you at your current address or elsewhere: a) Made any household contents claims in the last 5 years? b) Had insurance cancelled, declined or declared void or had special terms or conditions applied? c) Been convicted for any offence other than driving offences?

2. Has the home or the land belonging to it been flooded in the last 5 years?

3. Will the home be left unoccupied for a total of more than 60 days in a year?

4. Will the home be occupied by anyone other than you or your family?

If yes, how many people other than you or your family will occupy the home with you?

If you have answered yes to the above questions, please give details on a separate sheet of paper.

Payments will be weekly and added to you weekly rent.

It is important that the Sum Insured is sufficient to replace ALL household goods and personal belongings. If the Sum Insured is inadequate, you will have to bear a proportion of any claim.

Signature of Applicant 1: Date: / /

Signature of Applicant 2: Date: / /

Return this form to The Coast & Country Insurance Team, 14 Ennis Square, Dormanstown, TS10 5JR

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

No

No

No

HOME CONTENTS INSURANCE APPLICATION FORM

Your Homes Coast & Country26

IMMEDIATE LET AVAILABLE

Helmsley House, Guisborough, TS14 6TT

Rent: £114.70 per week • 1 bedroom• Applicants must be aged 30+• CCTV in corridors• Communal laundry• Good transport links

Contact: 01642 836004


Kielder Close, Redcar, TS10 4HT

Rent: £102.65 per week • 4 bedrooms• Rear garden• Good transport links• Close to local amenities• Close to local primary school

Contact: 01642 836005


Rosedale Gardens, Lingdale, TS12 3EN

Rent: £90.72 per week • Bungalow• 2 bedrooms• Full wet room• Decorated/hard wood floors• Quiet village, beautiful views

Contact: 01642 836004


Somerset Road, Eston, TS6 7NX

Rent: £85.92 per week • 2 bedrooms• Terraced house with garage• Front and back gardens • Decorating incentive available• Close to local primary school

Contact: 01642 836010

Crown House, Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough TS1 1RE

Rent: £96.02 per week • 1 bedroom• Decorated• Town centre location• Good transport links• Must be in employment and/or 50+

Contact: 01642 836004



Westfield Way, Dormanstown, Redcar, TS10 5LR

Rent: £84.51 per week • 2 bedrooms• Semi-detached• Close to local amenities• Close to local primary school• Good transport links

Contact: 01642 836005

You can find all our immediately available properties on our website, visit www.coastandcountryhousing.org.uk/immediately-available-homes

Safe and Sound

Properties available at time of print

LET AGREED

Did you know, that as a Coast & Country tenant, you have easy access to all HomeCall services? If you are worried about who or when you would get help if you had an accident at home, our HomeCall service gives you the support and reassurance you need.

HomeCall is available to you 24/7, whenever you need it. Contact one of our friendly staff to find out how HomeCall can help.


[email protected] www.homecall.me01642 771 339

Coast & Country tenants have easy access to HomeCall. Don’t wait until it’s too late…

• Live alone• Are elderly• Are less mobile• Are at risk of falling• Have just left hospital

• Are unwell• Don’t have regular visitors• Are worried about crime / intruders• Just want extra reassurance

and peace of mind at home

Our service is ideal for people who:

We’re here to provide 24/7 support whenever you need it. Call us today to find out more:

01642 [email protected]


Contact us...

Get connected Find us now on Facebook searchCoast & Country HousingRe:Furnish EmporiumWestfield Farm Tenant Resource Centre and Job ClubFollow us on Twitter @cchousingonline

Connect with us on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/coast-&-country-housing

Need another format?

If you require this information in another format or language please let us know on any of the contact details.Headquarters

14 Ennis Square Dormanstown Redcar TS10 5JR

Tel: 01642 771300Text: 07860 017148Email: [email protected]

Contact Headquarters if youhave any enquiries on:• Customer complaints• Resident involvement• Repairs, including out of hours• Home contents insurance• Right to buy• Money advice• Employment and training advice• Meeting room hire• HomeCall Services

Rent ServicesTel: 01642 771326/771327

Local Offices

Contact your local Housing Office if you have any queries regarding:• Your rent account • Housing • Management & Estate Services

East Cleveland Office1A Woodhouse Road Guisborough TS14 6LHTel: 01642 836004

Redcar Office14 Ennis Square, Dormanstown Redcar, TS10 5JRTel: 01642 836005

Grangetown OfficeBarbara Bowater House Kingsley Road Grangetown, TS6 7PWTel: 01642 836010

Spencerbeck OfficeSpencerbeck House, TS7 9PZTel: 01642 836009

South Bank EstateManagement Board 11/13 Steele Crescent, TS6 6QJ(limited opening hours)Tel: 01642 836072

your homes magazine - summer 2016

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