Ethos public relations Manchester

Equality North East to help more employers and individuals achieve the ‘Equality Standard’ thanks to unique funding

by Ethos public relations

Equality North East, a not-for-profit social enterprise in Gateshead, is managing to safeguard jobs and is set to provide equality workshops for small and medium sized enterprises (SME’s), thanks to financial support from a unique loan fund.

A recently awarded loan of £60,000 from The Social Enterprise Loan Fund (TSELF) will enable Equality North East to continue its work across the region, helping to remove barriers faced by minority and disadvantaged groups in terms of employment and entry into employment.

Liz Reay, Chief Executive of Equality North East, said: "We deliver projects and activities which support employers and individuals with their equality needs, and the loan from TSELF will enable us to continue this work across the region.

"The loan will assist with the work we are doing around our newly developed 'Equality Standard'- a practical tool that helps employers to plan and promote good equality practice in their organisations, ensuring they comply with the new 'Equality Act' legislation.

Liz added: "We believe that we have an excellent product in the 'Equality Standard'. And the loan from TSELF will help safeguard the jobs of the people working on it and pay for publicity and marketing so that the 'Equality Standard' can reach its business potential, whilst helping employers in the Third and private sectors implement the policies and procedures that will help with the recruitment and retention of people from diverse groups."

The loan will also allow the company to deliver the standard in a more innovative way so that SME’s and Third Sector organisations can work towards achieving the standard through the more affordable method of group sessions.

Equality North East, set up over ten years ago, provides key information, advice and guidance (IAG), training, consultancy, networking and events focused on Equality, and has become an important regional resource and the leading body for equality information and support for individuals and organisations in all sectors.

Rod Jones, regional director for TSELF, said: "Equality North East is unique in the services it offers to the community and really does help many people in the area, so we are thrilled to be able to assist with funding.

"TSELF provides loans to social enterprises and charities ranging from £15,000 to £250,000. We are here to help, so we would encourage any social enterprises looking for loans, to contact us."

The Social Enterprise Loan Fund (TSELF) is a Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI) and a registered charity aiming to support social enterprises engaged in social regeneration projects with the provision of loan finance.

TSELF has, to date, invested £8million in social enterprises across the UK, helping clients to generate job opportunities as well as training places.

For further information about Equality North East, visit www.equality-ne.co.uk or call 0191 495 6262.

To find out more about TSELF visit www.tself.org.uk or call 020 7680 1028.

Hanging out 1950s style

by Ethos public relations

People living in the Hollinwood, Coldhurst and St Mary’s areas of Oldham recently gained a unique insight into entertainment in the 1950s thanks to a visual and auditory exhibition organised by social landlord Contour Housing Group.

The exhibition a tenants hall displayed memorabilia, photographs and recordings compiled by a group of local 13 – 19 year olds over the summer in a project organised by Contour Homes entitled ‘Photography for Change’.

Shanine Meadowcroft from Contour Housing Group said: “Our visitors could listen to recordings of local people reminiscing about their youth as well as look at photographs of them in and around the Oldham landmarks that played an important part in their life in the 1950s.”

Shanine successfully applied for a £20,000 Heritage Lottery Grant to fund the project which saw youngsters from the white British and Bangladeshi communities interviewing older people to find out how teenagers in the 1950s entertained themselves on a Saturday night.

AKSA Housing and First Choice Homes worked with Contour to encourage people living in their homes to take part in the project which meant a wider cross section of residents were involved.

Shanine said: “This was a fun way for young people to see the similarities and differences of what a Saturday night entailed for a different generation and a different culture. It was also an excellent opportunity for them to learn about local history and has proved to be a really innovative way for young people to bridge both cultural and age divides.”

13 year old Madison Furbey interviewed some of her older neighbours and she found the project to be a great experience. “I enjoyed working on this project over the summer and think that entertainment in the 1950’s seemed much more enjoyable than today.”

The exhibition was supported by people who kindly donated a wide range of memorabilia which added to the 1950s atmosphere and brought the era back to life for the evening.

Shanine adds: “Our thanks go to everyone who came to support us and to those people who let us use their memorabilia.”

New Year New Home

by Ethos public relations

Sarah Holden and her children Shauna (15) and Safee (8) have a great start to the New Year courtesy of Brighter Horizons, the charitable development subsidiary of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH).

The family are among the first residents to move into what are the first new build council homes in Rochdale for over 20 years. The development on Croft Street will comprise of 18 bungalows and four family houses – and it is the latter which are now completed and being handed over to families.

Sarah said: “We are thrilled to have been allocated this lovely new home.” Previously we lived in a two bedroom terraced house in Sparth Bottom and we have waited around five years for a home like this.”

As well as having a bedroom each, the family is also pleased to be having a spacious back garden and off road car parking.

“Moving into this new house is the best way I can think of to start a new year,” adds Sarah.

The homes have been developed and are owned by Brighter Horizons and RBH will manage and maintain the properties.

Clare Tostevin, Head of New Business & Regeneration for RBH said: “We have worked closely with the council and the Homes and Communities Agency to develop these much needed new homes in the borough and we look forward to handing over the remaining properties in early 2011”.

Festive cheer at Franklin Ainsworth House

by Ethos public relations

Residents at Franklin Ainsworth House, a sheltered scheme in Great Harwood managed by social landlord Hyndburn Homes, have been experiencing higher than usual visitor numbers.

Jayne Brignall from Hyndburn Homes explains: “Hyndburn Homes has started the first phase of a £610,000 refurbishment of the 25 bedsit and flats,” she said. “We will be working with our contractor Bramall to install new kitchens and bathrooms as well as new central heating for each property.

“As a result there has been plenty of staff from both companies coming and going as we strive to ensure that disruption is kept to a minimum.”

To add some festive cheer to the proceedings Bramall has installed a Christmas tree in the communal area of the scheme for all residents to enjoy and 77 year old Dorothy Aspin and 90 year old Kathleen Smith say the Christmas tree is a really nice gesture.

“The workmen have been really lovely,” said Dorothy. “Having this work done is quite an upheaval but between them Hyndburn Homes and Bramall are keeping everyone smiling.”

To date eight or the 25 properties has been completed and work will start on the remaining homes in the new year.

Former office provides homes

by Ethos public relations

Representatives from Stockport Council and the NHS joined Contour Housing Group this week as it hosted an event to celebrate the official opening of a new supported housing scheme on Buxton Road in Stockport.

Housing and regeneration expert Contour Housing Group has re-developed its own former housing office to create six one bedroom self contained apartments for the NHS.

“We are delighted to launch this new development which has been designed to include purpose built modern homes as well as two meeting rooms for use by the NHS mental health team,” said Louise Marsden Project Manager for Contour Housing Group.

“Contour is enjoying a growing reputation in the development of supported housing schemes and this latest scheme has been very positively received by our client.”

The £600,000 project received £300,000 investment from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and as Contour Housing Group owned the original building the company made it available at no cost to the project.

Deborah McLaughlin executive director North West at the HCA added: “We have worked closely with Contour Housing Group and Stockport Council to help them develop these high quality new homes. The Buxton Road scheme provides a safe living environment for vulnerable people and offers a great range of important facilities that will make a real different to people’s lives.”

The scheme was officially opened by Councillor Helen Foster-Grime, Executive Member for Communities at Stockport Council. She said: "I'm delighted that Contour Housing Group, working with the Council, has been able to provide this high quality accommodation which will have a very positive impact on the lives of the residents staying here.

"This scheme is one of several specialist supported and general needs affordable housing schemes completed this year by the Stockport Housing Partnership, and shows the strength and commitment of the Council and its Partners to meet the borough's housing needs."

The development was built by Albert Holliday and Son and designed by Cheshire based Pozzoni Architects.

ABCUL report encourages saving in secondary schools

by Ethos public relations

A new research report commissioned by ABCUL – the Association of British Credit Unions – looks at ways of encouraging saving in secondary schools.

The new report, ‘Encouraging saving in secondary schools’, sets out recommendations for creating successful and sustainable partnerships that allow young people to build their financial skills through practical experience of money management and examines the benefits of credit unions working with secondary schools to achieve this.

The research, which was carried out by ECOTEC Research and Consulting, showed that credit union projects are both viable and worthwhile in secondary schools, with promising evidence of positive outcomes of pupils’ money management, confidence and communication skills.

Speaking at the launch of the report, at a reception of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Credit Unions, Minister for Pensions Steve Webb MP said: "The Government is working hard to reinvigorate credit unions in Britain, but we recognise that a number of groups have a role to play in expanding credit union services including banks, the private sector, charities and organisations such as ABCUL. As Pensions Minister I have a natural interest in encouraging saving, and this research out today is a welcome addition to this debate."

Damian Hinds MP, Chair of the APPG on Credit Unions, added: “The research highlights the valuable role that credit unions can play in teaching secondary school children the importance of money management. This demonstrates how community organisations such as credit unions can actively help people take control of their lives.”

The report was sponsored by Home Retail Group as part of their ongoing programme to support the local and national communities in which they operate.

Cathryn Cotterill, Head of Regulatory Compliance, Home Retail Group, said: “We are excited by the possibilities of giving young people an opportunity to ‘learn through doing’, making real decisions about managing their finances. We hope that this report will encourage credit unions to form successful partnerships with secondary schools so that pupils can benefit from active participation in such schemes.”

Mark Lyonette, Chief Executive of ABCUL, added: “There is a growing interest amongst credit unions to work with secondary schools, which reflects new opportunities in the curriculum. Our research showed that credit unions, with their ethical and co operative credentials, are particularly welcomed by school staff as an alternative to the role of high street banks in supporting financial education within the curriculum.”

A copy of the report is available for download at:
http://www.abcul.coop/media-and-research/research/creditunionsandschoolsreport.

‘Singing Gas Men’ entertain residents

by Ethos public relations

Hyndburn Homes’ residents at Friar Court sheltered scheme in Accrington were entertained by the ‘Singing Gas Men' at a recent Christmas concert.

The concert featured music from professional tenors the Rovettes and a 60s disco - but the highlight of the night was the performance by staff from GOS Heating - the ‘Singing Gas Men’.

Scheme Manager, Carol Bailey said: “GOS Heating carried out work on the scheme earlier this year and the lads had such a good time with residents they promised to come back at Christmas and entertain them. Everyone had such a fantastic time and the entertainment was brilliant.”

Jingle bells at Melbourne Court

by Ethos public relations

Residents at Melbourne Court, an extra care scheme managed by Contour Homes had a real treat recently when they were entertained by young carol singers.

Gail Rastelli Contour Homes Scheme Manager said: “Our residents and staff were delighted when children from nearby Copley High School offered to come and sing Christmas carols to us.

“The carol singers sang some lovely classics as well as a few modern Christmas songs and we all joined in.”

After the concert Melbourne Court residents returned the hospitality and laid on refreshments for the children and young and old enjoyed a cup of tea and a chat together.

The carol singers have been just one of a number of activities organised at Melbourne Court this December including a beauty pampering afternoon, a Christmas fair and a Christmas party.

You could save thousands of pounds in the FrithRugs Winter Sale

by Ethos public relations

There are not many New Year sales that offer thousands of pounds off the usual retail price – but then FrithRugs, one of the UK’s largest carpet and rug retailers – is not your usual retailer.

FrithRugs is offering up to 70% off all of its collections in a massive sale which starts on 27 December. As a stockist of hand-woven masterpieces from all over the world – the FrithRugs sale sees some rugs like the Indo Persian below -shaving a massive £5,000 off the usual price.

So if you’ve always wanted a class rug to grace your home – now is the time to invest as the company has over 5,000 rugs with the full 70% off RRP.

And of course it’s not just the sale for traditional rugs – the company also has hundreds of bright modern designs to suit a wide range of home styles.

Log onto www.frithrugs.com to browse the sale from December 27th.

Local children lead the way in Stibbard community clean-up

by Ethos public relations

Local school children from All Saints Stibbard Church of England Primary School in Fakenham, Norfolk, picked up their litter grabbers and set to work on their very own community clean-up operation, to help raise awareness of Greener Together – the co-operative way, an initiative run by Co-operatives UK.

The youngsters, aged between four and eleven, with a little help from their parents, picked up litter from across Stibbard village as part of a combined initiative between Ryburgh Village Shop in Norfolk and All Saints Stibbard Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School.

The team started off at the school, picking up anything that had blown up against the school fences, and then split into two groups to cover each end of the village. The litter pickers returned to the school via the local playing field to complete their clean up operation.

All Saints Stibbard Church of England Primary School currently holds the Eco schools Silver Award and the litter pick also helped to support the school's eco activities.

Teacher and Eco schools co-ordinator, Dawn Burden, said: "I was really pleased that we were able to help with the litter pick. Keeping our school on top of litter is difficult especially in the winter months when the wind blows it out of the bins!

“Lending a hand within our community is an area that we are good at as a school and welcome new opportunities to do our best for others. We had a fantastic time picking up the litter and thoroughly enjoyed throwing the leaves up in the air, and at each other!"

The next community event for the Ryburgh Greener Together team will be another litter pick, in the village of Great Ryburgh which will take place early in the New Year.

Greener Together – the co-operative way helps co-operatives make a significant impact on climate change, and reduce their environmental impact in the three key areas of energy, waste and personal transport.

Part of the Greener Living Fund, sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the project aims to help people to live in a more sustainable way, by focusing on the small actions every individual can take in their daily lives and enables member organisations of Co-operatives UK, the Confederation of Co-operative Housing (CCH) and the Plunkett Foundation to work with their members and customers in achieving greener behaviour.

To find out more about Greener Together, visit the website at www.greenertogether.coop.

Feeling a bit cramped this Christmas?

by Ethos public relations

As you take the Christmas tree and decorations out of the attic this year – why not take a long hard look at the space available and think about how it could add more living space to your home?

Becke Livesey is a Director at Econoloft, the only loft conversion company that works across the country. She said that after family and friends descend at Christmas, the company has an influx of calls in January as people want to find out more about adding more living space to their home.

“Ninety percent of all our loft conversions are for a bedroom and ensuite,” she said. “People can feel a bit cramped at Christmas as children return home and other family members stay over. It’s usually the catalyst for homeowners to find out about the loft conversion they have been promising themselves all year.”

Becke said that even the smallest roof space can create quite a spacious room thanks to the clever use of skylights and velux windows which can flood the space with natural light and really open up the room.

“Making a 2-bedroom house into a 3-bedroom house or extending a 3-bedroom property into a 4-bedroom property really makes a difference to a family,” said Becke. “Customers often tell us that having that extra space releases quite a lot of tension and makes family life a lot less stressful – particularly at busy times like Christmas.

“And of course a well designed and well built loft conversion will also add value to your property as well as avoiding a lot of the stresses and costs associated with moving house.”

Becke advises anyone who is considering a loft conversion to think about how the space will be used now and in the future. “If friends or neighbours have a loft conversion take a look at theirs and also look at our website for images which can provide inspiration,” she said.

“You may also find it useful to get a few estate agents to the house to provide an estimate of how much value a loft conversion could add to your home.

“And don’t forget that orders placed before December 31st 2010 can be invoiced at the pre-VAT rise price as long as the VAT element is settled in 2010 and the work completed before 4 July 2011. You could save hundreds of pounds so don’t delay.”

If you are interested in adding more space to your home visit the national loft conversion experts at www.econoloft.co.uk or call the freephone number on 0800 269 765.

Co-operatives UK welcomes tackling of debt in football

by Ethos public relations

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, has welcomed the announcement that a Parliamentary Committee is to be set up to focus on debt in football and enhancing supporters’ involvement in decision-making.

“Co-operatives have, at their heart, a commitment to promoting democratic involvement and I welcome the Parliamentary Committee’s look at the scope for enhancing supporter involvement in decision-making within football clubs,” he said.

“Supporter ownership in football is not new. Germany’s Bundesliga for example, which has over taken the Premier League as the world’s most profitable league this year, already has co-operative structures in place – and a co-operative structure can go a long way to ensuring clubs are there for the local community rather than solely to generate profit for a handful of owners.

“Given English clubs’ net debt is more than the rest of its European contemporaries combined, the fans are, inevitably, the ones most likely to foot the bill for the suicidal expenditure of English clubs.”

For one night only

by Ethos public relations

Two coach loads of residents from Lower Falinge, local police, local councillors and other VIPs joined housing chiefs this week at a special premiere at the Odeon Cinema featuring Lower Falinge and its talented residents.

A partnership between Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH), Link4life and Rochdale Borough Councils’ Pride Partnership has seen the development of a film group on the estate which has recorded life in the area for a year.

Danny Lomax from Glass Eye Productions was charged with training the group on filming, interviewing and editing techniques and he compiled the final 75 minute production. “It’s been a pleasure to work with - not just with the film group - but the whole community,” he said. “Everyone has supported the work and that was apparent from the reception we had at the screening.”

The films are available for anyone to see at a new website www.explorefalinge.org and Link4Life Managing Director Craig McAteer, Vice-Chair of Rochdale Borough Pride Partnership, said: “This was a true partnership in every sense of the word – with local residents at the heart of it. People young and old have committed to the project which shows the spirit and talents of the neighbourhood.”

As well as tackling some of the negative perceptions around the area, the film shows the wide range of activities and community groups in operation and Khalida Crossley who works with RBH and is based on Lower Falinge said:

“When we saw the film it brought home just how much goes on here. From the football tournament to the women’s group – from the allotment to the youth group and everything in between. The film clearly shows just how this diverse, multi cultural society works together to support each other. It’s something Lower Falinge should be really proud of.”

As well as the short films, residents can now access a new platform which uses the latest in web and online technology to provide both local information and a tool for residents to tell their own stories.

Go to www.explorefalinge.org for the latest information.

Business essentials for Consumer co-operatives at National Retail Consumer Conference 2011

by Ethos public relations

Consumer co-operatives are performing well in the retail market, and an impressive line up of key co-operative speakers will be highlighting the business essentials for all those involved in the consumer co-operative sector at the 2011 National Retail Consumer Conference (NRCC) in February.

The well-established NRCC forum will be held again at the Holiday Inn, Stratford-upon-Avon, between the 25th and 27th February 2011, and features an exciting programme of keynote speakers and networking opportunities.

The 2011 NRCC, entitled, ‘How to get ahead in co-operative retail: the business essentials for consumer co-operatives’, is a must-attend event for members that own co-operatives through to the managers that run them, to enable them to understand the issues affecting the retail sector and how consumer co operatives can address them and benefit from the co-operative way of doing business.

Keynote speakers include Peter Marks, Group Chief Executive of the Co operative Group and Director-General of the International Co operative Alliance, Charles Gould.

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, said: “The NRCC is a key event in the co-operative calendar and with the impressive 2011 programme of speakers and networking opportunities, the event promises to continue the success of previous years.”

Peter Marks will look at how things have progressed since his calls in 2006 for one national consumer society, and Charles Gould will examine what the UN International Year of Co-operatives in 2012 will mean to the UK Co-operative Movement and in particular, the opportunities that it brings to strengthen the co-operative brand and image, both in the UK and globally.

Other key speakers include author of ‘Spedan’s Partnership’ (2009) and former Systems Director of Waitrose, Peter Cox, who will provide an insight into the history of the John Lewis Partnership and Mark Bradley, acclaimed author of ‘Inconvenience Stores’ (2005) and commentator on customer services, from retail stores to football clubs, who will demonstrate how using the real customer service experience can be a catalyst for change and improvement.

Ed Mayo, will set out the risks and opportunities for co-operatives in the current political and economic climate and discuss key developments for public sector mutuals and the Post Office.

“The 2011 NRCC boasts one of the best line ups since the Retail Conference started,” Ed Mayo said, “and at a popular venue chosen by our retail society members.

“We are grateful for the input we have had in shaping the programme from those involved in sectional councils across the country.”

Full programme details and booking information can be found by visiting www.tcp-events.co.uk/coop-nrcc and if you book your place early, before the end of the year, you can enjoy the lower VAT rate of 17.5%.

New figures show that HMRC is the worst place to work in government – Department for Education the best

by Ethos public relations

As Government steps up plans to give its employees a right to run their own services as mutuals, new data released by Co-operatives UK at the Public Servant Annual Conference in London on Thursday 9 December reveals high levels of staff disengagement across current public services.

The Staff Engagement League Table, compiled from freedom of information requests to supplement published data, names Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) as the worst place to work across government, followed by the Ministry of Justice. The Department for Education comes top.

The basis for the data is the 2009 People’s Survey, which tracked 340,000 civil servants across 96 organisations of government. While most results have been published openly, Co-operatives UK has had to submit freedom of information requests in order to get some departments, including HMRC, the lowest scorer, and the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), which has published material encouraging businesses to promote employee engagement, to publish their overall engagement scores.

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, is launching the league table at the Public Servant Annual Conference, entitled, ‘Think Big: Opening up Government and Public Services’, and comments that:

“The core idea of forming public sector mutuals is that you can get better results by giving freedom and ownership to staff. Our analysis backs this up, but also suggests the need for a more co-operative culture right across public services.

“Previous thinking has focused on staff commitment, but this fails to recognise that employment at its best is a two-way, co-operative process, based on mutual obligations and not just a formal contract.

“The survey is in the process of being repeated, and in the context of cuts, it is not clear that the overall results will be any better.”

Previous research has suggested that, when it comes to staff engagement, the UK performs poorly overall compared to other countries (with 23% of staff disengaged in their workplace compared to 16% for the USA and 15% for Germany). Co-operatives UK has estimated the annual economic cost of this failure for the UK at around £36bn.

“There is a spectrum of co-operation,” comments Ed Mayo. “It is not that every business or government agency should be a co-operative or mutual. But every organisation can benefit by being more co-operative.”

Co-operatives UK, together with the Employee Ownership Association and Local Partnerships, is running the Mutuals Information Service - 020 7296 6705 – to advise public sector staff on options around mutual forms for delivery.

New build in Rochdale aims to boost market

by Ethos public relations

Brighter Horizons, the charitable development subsidiary of ALMO Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) has started work in the Kirkholt area of Rochdale to build new homes which will act as a catalyst in attracting wider private sector investment to the neighbourhood.

Clare Tostevin Head of New Business & Regeneration for RBH said: “The new build is a vital part of the overall Masterplan for this HMR Intervention neighbourhood and will help encourage further investment in the area from the private sector.”

Much of the Kirkholt estate was built in the late 1940s and the long-term vision for the area is to offer a mix of modern housing for sale and rent and much improved facilities.

Phase one of the new build will see Brighter Horizons, supported by Great Places Housing Group, developing six two- bedroom bungalows on the site of former garages. The scheme has been funded by a £420,000 grant from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and prudential borrowing by Brighter Horizons.

The bungalows which are for older people have parking spaces and gardens and have been designed to lifetime home standards.

“This is the first new build on Kirkholt for some years,” said Clare. “It demonstrates confidence in Kirkholt as a neighbourhood where quality new homes can be delivered.”

Brighter Horizons will continue with phase two of its new build plans early in 2011 when it will start work on the development of 30 new homes.

They will include three units for new build home buy, two for outright sale and the rest for affordable rent. This major development has been supported by HCA grant funding of £1.9m and will provide much needed family homes.

Deborah McLaughlin, Director North West at the HCA said: “I am pleased that we have been able to support this key scheme in Kirkholt. It is an important step in increasing housing choices in the area for local people.”

RBH established Brighter Horizons to enable it to develop new homes in Rochdale. The new homes will be maintained and managed by RBH.

Clare adds: “The start on site of phase one of the new build homes sends a clear message to the existing community and to private sector investors and developers - there is a new homes market on Kirkholt.

“It’s important to ensure the new development integrates new and existing residents within the neighbourhood and RBH’s dedicated Priority Area team based on the estate will play a lead role in providing and facilitating initiatives to do this.”

Affordable homes for Handforth

by Ethos public relations

Contour Housing Group, one of the North West’s biggest housing and regeneration organisations, has recently started work to build 21 new homes in Handforth, Cheshire.

The development known as Wilmslow View offers two bedroom apartments which will be available for sale via HomeBuy.

Nicky Harris Project Manager for Contour Housing Group said: “We have worked closely with the Council to develop properties that will meet housing needs in the area.

“Our research suggests that demand for these properties will be high as this is a popular location, close to good local amenities and motorway links and the properties will be built to a high specification.”

The architect designed scheme will be built to Code 4 of Sustainable Homes. A range of renewable technologies will be included such as a rain water harvesting system and Photovoltaic Panels on the roof.

It is anticipated that the new homes will be completed in Spring 2011.

The properties are being built by Bullock Construction and have been designed by Pozzoni and will be marketed for Contour via Bridgfords estate agency.

European visitors in Callon

by Ethos public relations

A delegation of visitors from Norway, Germany, Portugal and Holland met up with Contour Homes staff and residents this week as part of a European Union exchange visit.

Colin Makinson, Community Estate Warden and support staff from Contour Homes hosted the visit in Callon and described how Contour Homes and various other partners had helped transform and regenerate the area through both physical and community regeneration.

“The European visitors were really interested in the various methods Contour Homes has successfully used to turn around the area,” he said. “Callon Kids Community Club, a major youth initiative in Callon was of special interest and they were also impressed with the high level of partnership evident in this area.”

Euro Cities is a research project for experts in urban regeneration working across Europe. It is anticipated that the exchange visits will form a part of a report which will inform European policy on neighbourhood projects in the future.

Co-operatives Fortnight 2011 is Yours To Share

by Ethos public relations

Co-operatives UK has announced that Co-operatives Fortnight 2011, the national campaign that unites the sector in raising awareness of the co-operative model, will take place from 25 June to 9 July 2011 with the theme - ‘Yours To Share.’

The 2011 campaign will seek to highlight how sharing ownership and profits makes co-operatives ethical and relevant businesses and it will challenge growing inequality in the UK by arguing for co-operative models of ownership.

Latest market research carried out by Co-operatives UK on behalf of its members, shows that the public already associates co-operatives with sharing profits and so the theme chimes with the public’s understanding of the co-operative business model.

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, said: “The success of the first Co-operatives Fortnight last year, which involved 2.3million people, came from the enthusiasm and activism of co-operatives across the country.

“This year, Co-operatives UK and the Founding Sponsors want to step it up a gear. Concerns about wealth and fairness are on everyone’s lips at the moment so we have a unique opportunity to demonstrate – to customers, employees, members, business leaders and government – that co-operatives are different because they are ‘yours to share.’

“The key to this,” Ed says, “is co-operatives everywhere getting involved, using the Yours to Share branding, marketing materials and campaign messages to promote how they share ownership and profits.”

Co-operatives Fortnight 2010 not only resulted in the engagement of 2.3 million people but there was also media coverage reaching 43 million, with another 70,000 people engaged online, 92 civil servants hearing directly from the sector and an early day motion receiving the support of 72 MPs.

For 2011, the campaign will call on consumers to think about where they spend their money, ask government to recognise how co-operatives help build a more equal economy and invite business leaders to share in the learning of how a co-operative approach can boost their performance.

Co-operatives Fortnight 2011 has already had confirmation of Founding Sponsorship and active involvement from the Co-operative Group, Midcounties Co-operative, Midlands Co-operative Society, The Southern Co-operative, East of England Co-operative Society, Lincolnshire Co-operative, Anglia Regional Co-operative Society and Chelmsford Star Co-operative.

Further support is anticipated from larger sponsors with a Supporting Sponsor package to be launched in late November for those who wish to demonstrate their support.

Visit www.uk.coop/yourstoshare.

Double whammy at Award Ceremony

by Ethos public relations

It was applause all round recently as two trainees employed by Hyndburn Homes Repairs scooped Learner of the Year at the annual Construction Awards organised by Accrington & Rossendale College.

Paul Earnshaw from Hyndburn Homes Repairs said: “The trainees are on a three year apprenticeship with Hyndburn Homes Repairs. They concentrate on the practical element of the construction trade of their choice and attend Accrington & Rossendale College one day a week to learn the theory.”

16 year old Jack Galvin from Laneside was delighted and surprised to win: “I can’t believe I won,” he said. “I am really enjoying my apprenticeship and to be awarded for something you like doing feels great.”

Jack received his accolade, for the remarkable start to his first year at college and completing work ahead of target dates for both theory and practical. He was presented with a certificate and a set of chisels on the night.

19 year old Mohammed Farooq from Accrington, who is in his second year of training, was awarded the British Gypsum Learner of the Year award for his high standard of plastering. He was presented with a trophy and a range of plastering tools.

Commenting on his prize Mohammed said: “I was so excited to win the award and it was a great honour even to be selected. Since doing my apprenticeship, my confidence and skills level have really grown.”

Hyndburn Homes Repairs is the largest direct labour organisation in the area and maintains over 3,000 properties for social landlord Hyndburn Homes. The company employs around 60 skilled workers and is proud of its apprenticeship scheme which currently employs 6 young people, including Jack and Mohammed.

Paul adds, “All the winners are fantastic examples of the value of Apprenticeships, they all deserve enormous credit for their achievements.”

Textile jobs lost at rate of one per hour – but launch of new co-operative brings UK manufacturing back into fashion

by Ethos public relations

With recent signs that Britain’s manufacturing sector is seeing an upturn, one innovative co-operative is bringing the good times back to a former manufacturing hub.

Midshires Clothing, a worker owned business that provides garment manufacturing, embellishment and alteration services, has set up shop in Kettering.

The market town’s economy was built on industries such as clothing and shoemaking, but figures suggest that across the UK 180 jobs in textiles disappeared EVERY WEEK between 2005 and 2009 as much sourcing moved overseas. Midshires Clothing has identified this as a market opportunity.

“We believe the time is right for us,” says Alison Holland, one of the directors and owners of Midshires Clothing. “People are becoming more interested in where their clothes come from as well as the ethical and environmental desire to ‘buy local’.

“Our job centre had to search hard to find the right job code to create an advert for a sewing machinist for us - it has been that long since the town has needed one” comments Alison. “There has been a steady decline in the British garment manufacturing industry over many years with much business lost to the Far East.

“We resolved to change this – we want to preserve people’s skills and we intend to pass them on to future generations through apprenticeships. We also want to show that buying local isn’t necessarily more expensive.”

Alison adds: “We think that every business has a responsibility to the people and area that it is from. The co-operative ethos and principles match our own business principles and it was an easy decision to become a co-operative.”

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, the national trade body for co operative enterprises, said: “Manufacturing is an important part of our economy and in a co-operative all the workers can have a real stake in the success of the business. There is no real need for clothes to be made halfway across the world. Midshires Clothing provides a local, ethical and innovative solution that can only be of benefit to the local area and the country as a whole.”

The UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) welcomes Midshires Clothing’s initiative. Eric Musgrave, chief executive officer of UKFT said: “We know that more and more companies are looking to source clothing in the UK because of the convenience and the expertise on offer here. It is good to see a new addition to the still-long list of manufacturers that have retained a presence in Britain.”

To find out more about Midshires Clothing please visit www.midshiresclothing.co.uk. Or to find out more about Co-operatives UK please visit www.uk.coop.

Now there’s an easier way to find your local credit union

by Ethos public relations

Those searching for affordable loans and a safe home for their savings need look no further than a brand new website from ABCUL – the Association of British Credit Unions. www.findyourcreditunion.co.uk is an easy way for people to find their local credit union.

Around 80% of people in England, Scotland and Wales can join a credit union because of where they live, work or the organisations they’re members of, and this is growing all the time. Now there’s one place where they can find out about the credit unions they can use.

“Whether you want to save or borrow, chances are there’s a credit union near you,” explains Mark Lyonette, Chief Executive of ABCUL. “Now, for the first time, all of the 450 plus credit unions in Britain will be able to add their details to one website, making it easier to find a credit union – wherever you live or work.”

Credit unions are independent financial co-operatives, owned and controlled by their members and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Almost one million people use a credit union in Britain.

Visitors to the new website can search for a credit union using their postcode, their employer’s name or details of any associations they belong to – such as trade unions or religious groups.

ABCUL is also relaunching its own website – www.abcul.coop – at the same time, with lots more news and information about credit unions.

Key to driving towards a successful launch was the design and development expertise of ABCUL’s newly chosen web supplier, netXtra. As specialists in the development of websites for membership and not-for-profit organisations, netXtra’s knowledge, experience and ongoing advice has been fundamental in getting both sites developed and launched on time and to the high standards expected by our members.

Groundbreaking vision for the co-operative sector released for discussion

by Ethos public relations

Co-operatives UK is seeking comments and debate on a radical vision of how the co-operative sector can expand into the 21st Century.

The groundbreaking document, Co-operation in the age of Google, was written by Robin Murray – a co-operative innovator and key thinker behind Fairtrade and Twin Trading – and is open for comment by members of Co-operatives UK until 12 February 2011.

Co-operation in the age of Google shows that we are living at a time of profound transformation. The information and communication revolution, widespread concerns about private sector greed, public sector finances and impending climate chaos present a wide range of possibilities for co-operative expansion.

But Robin says that the co-operative sector is not yet in a position to make the most of these opportunities. It needs to be more innovative, more integrated, more internationalist, to get better infrastructure for developing the sector and to find ‘the idea’ that can mobilise support for co-operation.

The review proposes a series of practical initiatives for 2011 and 2012 to strengthen the co-operative sector.

In true co-operative fashion, the document is open to members of Co-operatives UK, for comments, alternative suggestions, improvements, counter-arguments, examples and photos. It can be accessed at www.uk.coop/ageofgoogle.

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, said: “The co-operative sector has a history of taking stock and moving forward through independent reviews and commissions. This report, a thorough going analysis from one of today's leading industrial economists, is a gift to co-operators across the UK.

"This is an independent report, and at times quite controversial, so we want to incorporate the views of our members before it goes further. Robin views it as an open source project, so in that vein this is the beta version to be shared and amended by the co-operative sector."

Housing providers still struggle with engagement

by Ethos public relations

Tenant engagement may be high on the agenda but it’s still a difficult area to get right according to e-learning provider Housing e-Academy, part of the Virtual College.

Chloe Weatherhead, Head of Housing e-Academy said: “There can be a reluctance on the part of tenants to get involved in formal participation structures and this is particularly true of ‘hard to hear’ groups such as young people and BME tenants. Tenant engagement often results in the same tenants attending most meetings – hardly representative of the customer base.

Information gathered by Housing e-Academy from its extensive national client base of housing associations and ALMOs suggest barriers to engagement include the practical - access to transport or childcare - to more personal reasons such as a lack of confidence.

Housing e-Academy’s work with housing providers across the country suggests that creative housing providers are moving away from the old fashioned ‘one size fits all’ strategy.

“Our clients tell us that the most successful engagement allows tenants to make their own choices by offering a range of opportunities which allows them to organise their own time and activities rather than following what their landlord dictates,” said Chloe.

An e-learning solution to tenant engagement offers numerous benefits for the tenants such as providing an obvious value as they can access free training courses with CPD accredited certificates. It is also suitable for diverse tenant groups including the young, those with disabilities, parents and those in full time employment.

It can be accessed at a time, place and pace to suit the learner so barriers such as money, travel and childcare are broken and because they work individually confidence is not an issue. It enables the tenant to organise their own time and work at their own pace – not their landlords and also improves an individual’s’ IT skills.

Housing providers also benefit as e-learning provides a full auditing tool based on postcodes so that the provider can see where tenants are engaging. It is also extremely cost effective if measured against traditional face to face training.

Self registration means Housing Officers don’t have to get involved as tenants are organising their own activities and it can be used as a stand alone tool or as part of existing and future engagement opportunities and fits into a blended learning approach.

“In 2010 we have seen the number of registered Virtual College e-learners is growing at an average rate of around 3,000 per month as businesses recognise the benefits of e-learning as a communication tool,” said Chloe.

“The benefits of using e-learning when engaging with tenants mean the organisation can build better relationships, enhance customer loyalty, accountability, social capital and community capacity. This is central to achieving service improvement and community regeneration."

For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk.

East London co-operative wins Green Mark accreditation

by Ethos public relations

Account3, an East London co-operative offering a range of training, enterprise and development services, has proved its environmental credentials by gaining a Green Mark.

The not for personal profit women’s co-operative has been helping to eliminate barriers to the job market for women in the Bethnal Green area for the last 19 years and was eager to promote its environmental work.

And after signing up to Greener Together – the co-operative way, an initiative run by Co-operatives UK, the national trade body that campaigns for co-operation, it has been able to do just that.

Toni Meredew, Director at account3, said: “As a co-operative, we have a very ethical and environmental ethos at our heart and we had been looking at ways in which we could do our bit for the planet. But it wasn’t until we signed up to the Greener Together project that we really started to move our environmental work forward.

“As part of the Greener Together project, we pledged to gain the Green Mark, which helped us focus and gave us something to work towards,” Toni said. “And now, thanks to the help and support we’ve received through the project, we have won the Green Mark accreditation, which is just fantastic!”

Michelle Lockwood, Manager of the Greener Together project at Co-operatives UK, said: “The project was set up to help co-operatives, like account3, make a significant impact on climate change, and reduce their environmental impact in the three key areas of energy, waste and personal transport.

“We are delighted that the Greener Together project has helped account3 achieve its Green Mark accreditation.”

To find out more about account3 visit www.account3.org.uk or call 0207 739 7720. To find out more about Greener Together, visit the website at www.greenertogether.coop. Or to learn more about the Green Mark visit www.greenmark.co.uk.

Lift the mood in 2011

by Ethos public relations

Got the New Year blues? These stunning new rugs will lift any mood and any room.

A new rug is a quick and easy way to give any room in the house a different look and one of these dazzling rugs from FrithRugs is guaranteed to inject colour and brilliance into your home - giving it the wow factor for 2011.

Handmade in India from 100% wool, the rugs are exclusively made for FrithRugs and are not available on the high street. If you are looking for something new in 2011 go to www.frithrugs.co.uk or telephone 0845 4 900 600.

The rugs are available in a range of sizes – a 2.44m x 1.52m rug (8' x 5') cost £399.50.

Co-operatives UK to work with government on new service for public sector co-operatives

by Ethos public relations

Speaking following the launch of the Mutuals Information Service by Minister for the Cabinet Office, Francis Maude, Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, made a statement.

“We welcome the launch of the Mutuals Information Service – a partnership between the Cabinet Office, Local Partnerships, Employee Ownership Association and Co-operatives UK – which will provide a signposting service for staff in the public sector interested in setting up staff-owned mutuals, or co-operatives that go further by engaging service users as well.

“There are successful public sector co-operatives out there already, including GP out of hours co-operatives and co-operative trust schools. But most co-operatives operate in the private sector in highly competitive markets and if public services want to pick up the model, they will have to get it right, both in terms of the business model and in terms of a commitment to co-operative values and principles.

“So, as the trade association for co-operatives in this country, Co-operatives UK is pleased to see the government’s commitment to co-operative and mutual delivery of public services starting to take shape.

“We are committed to sharing our expertise so that public sector employees exploring co-operative and mutual alternatives get the support, information and advice they need.

“We look forward to working closely with Local Partnerships – a joint venture between the Treasury and the Local Government Association - and the Employee Ownership Association on the Mutuals Information Service.”

£3m Scheme brings affordable homes to Clitheroe

by Ethos public relations

Contour Housing Group, one of the biggest housing and regeneration organisations in the North West has recently started work on site to develop 25 affordable housing properties at Primrose Village, Clitheroe.

Nicky Harris Project Manager for Contour Housing Group said: “Our research suggests that these are much needed properties in an area where many local households are being priced out of the market and perhaps have to leave the area. These new homes will help to alleviate that situation.

“Once built the new homes will be owned and managed by our subsidiary organisation Contour Homes and will comprise 13 homes available via general social rent and 12 Rent to HomeBuy properties. The units will be made up of eight 3-bedroom homes, fourteen 2-bedroom homes and three 2-bedroom apartments and so offer a good mix of house type.”

This £3 million scheme has been supported by investment of £1.12m from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) with Contour Housing Group providing the rest of the funding.

Deborah McLaughlin, Director North West at the HCA said: “We have worked closely with Ribble Valley Borough Council and Contour Housing Group to make sure this important housing scheme gets moving. There is a good mix of new housing for people who want to rent or buy, and I’m sure local people will be delighted to see these new high quality homes developed.”

Contour Homes already own 10 properties on an adjacent site and so the new properties will complement the existing homes and form a natural cul de sac which are close to local amenities and offer views of Pendle Hill. The architect designed properties will have facades in natural stone to complement the local area and will be built to Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3 making them energy efficient to run.

It is anticipated that the new homes will be available in January 2012. Applications for the social rented homes will be via the Council and Contour Homes waiting lists and the Rent to HomeBuy properties will be advertised via the local press. People who can prove a local connection will be given first refusal.

RBH ‘buy back’ pilot a success

by Ethos public relations

Brighter Horizons, the charitable development subsidiary of ALMO Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) has successfully completed a pilot scheme which has resulted in new family homes being added to its housing stock.

In 2009, Brighter Horizons was allocated £300,000 from the Homes & Communities Agency (HCA) to purchase five former local authority houses on the open market. The homes had been former ‘right to buy’ properties which were being sold by the current owners.

Brighter Horizons borrowed additional funds to refurbish the homes and bring them up to Decent Homes Standard. The five properties are ‘pepper potted’ on existing estates across the Rochdale borough and are managed by RBH.

Clare Tostevin Head of New Business & Regeneration for RBH said: “This was a pilot scheme for Brighter Horizons. Working closely with the Council to support the empty property initiative this scheme has brought homes back into use for people in housing need.”

According to the Empty Homes Agency there are nearly 1 million empty homes across the UK and 4,000 empty properties in Rochdale – with the majority in the private sector.

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles recently announced that £100 million would be made available to help bring empty homes back into use as part of the national affordable housing programme.

“Refurbishment can be more cost effective than building new homes,” said Clare. “This initiative is something Brighter Horizons would definitely repeat if there was funding available.”

Deborah McLaughlin, director North West at the HCA said: “I am pleased to see that the Rochdale Buy Back scheme has been such a success. Supporting innovative measures like the Brighter Horizons scheme that bring empty homes back into use for local people is a really important part of our work.”

Ethos public relations has Energy4All

by Ethos public relations

Manchester based Ethos public relations has been appointed by Energy4All to raise the profile of community-owned wind projects.

Energy4All, the support organisation for renewable energy co-operatives in the UK, handed the five figure contract to Ethos public relations to build awareness and community support for new proposed wind co-operatives.

Speaking about the win, Sean Bish at Ethos public relations said: “Sustainable energy production is a major issue for the UK and we are looking forward to working with Energy4All to help deliver community-owned renewable energy schemes.”

Simon Williams, director at Energy4All, said: “Our projects are very much community co-operatives and we were keen to work with a PR agency that shares our values and can help communities understand our plans.”

For further information about Energy4All call 01229 821028 or visit www.energy4all.co.uk.

Double celebration for Ossie couple

by Ethos public relations

Jeff and Monica Brierley had double the reason to celebrate their 52nd wedding anniversary recently as Hyndburn Homes and its contractor The Casey Group put the finishing touches to their brand new kitchen.

“I can’t believe how much space we have now,” said 70 year old Monica. “I love the worktops, I love the colours, I just love everything about it.”

The couple live in a one bedroom bungalow in Oswaldtwistle and have lived there for seven years. As part of the multi million refurbishment of its housing stock social landlord Hyndburn Homes has installed a new kitchen, a new bathroom and re-wired the property.

“You can’t do work like this without a bit of mess,” said Jeff who is also 70. “But the end result is worth it. In actual fact we have quite enjoyed ourselves because we’ve had a bit of fun with the lads who have been in and out of the house.”

Jeff and Monica have also taken the opportunity to do some work of their own around the property. In the lounge they have treated themselves to a modern fire, new furniture and soft furnishings and their new look home is a source of great pride.

“We’ve been showing off our house to family and friends,” said Monica. “We’ve even had neighbours in to show them the finished work.

“Some people, particularly the elderly, are a bit nervous about having major work like this done - but our advice is just think of the end result and go for it. Everything for us has been brilliant and we’ll actually be quite sorry to see the workmen go!”

By the end of 2010 Hyndburn Homes will have programmed improvements to over 2,300 properties which will see the majority of its housing stock meeting the Government’s Decent Homes Standard.

Credit unions welcome Post Office plans

by Ethos public relations

ABCUL – the Association of British Credit Unions – has welcomed today’s policy statement from The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) on its plans to secure the long term future of the Post Office. In particular, ABCUL is pleased to see a commitment to expand affordable and accessible financial services through Post Offices, for example by working with credit unions.

Mark Lyonette, Chief Executive of ABCUL, said: “We would like to congratulate the Government for recognising the importance of credit unions by firmly supporting a stronger link up between credit unions and the Post Office network. More needs to be done to ensure this happens and we welcome the support from Minister Ed Davey for the work we are doing.”

Making credit union services available through Post Offices would dramatically increase access to affordable credit, safe savings and other financial services for millions more people.

Mark adds: “It is good to see that the proposals received support from both sides of the House and we look forward to continuing to work with the Government on how best to achieve the link up.”

*Photo courtesy of Freedigitalphotos.net - Simon Howden

Hollinwood fireworks display

by Ethos public relations

Over 1000 Hollinwood residents were treated to a dazzling fireworks display recently thanks to Friends of Limeside Park.

Sarah Furbey from Contour Homes and secretary of Friends of the Park successfully applied for funding from Hollinwood District Partnership to organise the event.

Sarah handed out 400 glow sticks to local children and the Avenues & Hollins Tenants Association offered food and refreshments in the Community Hall.

Sarah says, “All the hard work paid off and the event went off with a bang! Residents and the local community were able to get together and celebrate bonfire night at a safe organised display. Our thanks go to Hollinwood District Partnership for the funding.”

Home Group joins Housing e-Academy

by Ethos public relations

Housing e-Academy, one of the country’s leading providers of e-learning in the social housing sector has won a contract with Newcastle based Home Group

Home Group which manages 52,000 homes and provides care and support services to more than 20,000 people across the UK each year, is working to develop a blended learning approach for staff and tenants.

Kristina Henry, Group Leadership Development & Stonham Learning Manager for Home Group said: “The main appeal of working with the Housing e-Academy is the range and quality of e-learning solutions on offer - not just for developing our colleagues but also for our customers and clients.

“We recognise that learners respond to different ways of learning other than traditional classroom based workshops which is why we have created opportunities to access e-learning.

“Our relationship with Housing e-Academy complements our plans for a greater ‘blended’ approach to learning.”

Home Group has signed up for the Housing e-Academy Gold membership package which provides access to 12 e-learning modules in branded areas of Learning Management Systems for all staff for one year.

“Many organisations are recognising the benefits of using a mix of different learning environments - or blended learning,” said Chloe Weatherhead Head of Housing e-Academy.

“As providers look to save money without compromising on quality or standards, e-learning provides a value for money, flexible and effective way to ensure that both staff and tenants are well trained and informed.”

For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk

Co-operatives UK in negotiations on new accounting rules that undermine the dividend

by Ethos public relations

Co-operatives UK is contesting proposed changes to international accounting standards that will result in payments of dividends being treated unfairly, warning that the sector may need to campaign if the standard is not amended.

The new standard, which is being proposed by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), if implemented, will require co-operatives to treat dividends as refunds and therefore deduct them from their revenue, which in turn will have a significant impact on their accounts and reporting.

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, explains: “This new standard may end up cutting profits as the rules want to treat the dividend as if it were no different to a sales promotion, rather than something that is fundamental to co-operative businesses since the pioneers - sharing the profit.”

The problem was identified earlier this year by Co-operatives UK’s Co-operative Performance Committee (CPC), which monitors commercial performance of co-operatives. The CPC includes accountancy experts KPMG as well as retail societies including the Co-operative Group, Midlands, Midcounties and Lincolnshire.

After drawing the issue to the attention of Cooperatives Europe, Co-operatives UK, with the CPC, submitted a response setting out the threat the new standard poses to the accounting treatment of the co-operative dividend.

Co-operatives UK will be participating in a Roundtable meeting organised by the IASB on 10 November to discuss the matter further.

As Phil Holmes, Finance Manager at Co-operatives UK, explains: “Because we’ve acted quickly we have the chance – through our submission and at the Roundtable – to seek amendments to the proposed standard before it is implemented.

“If, once we know the outcome from the Roundtable, we are not successful with our initial approach then we will be asking co-operatives – in the UK and internationally – to support a campaign for a standard that puts co-operatives on a level playing field. We will make it as easy as possible for co-operatives to support the campaign, but the key will be to get the whole sector behind it.”

Currently international accounting standards apply to only a small number of co-operatives in the UK; however, it is expected that by 2014 a large proportion of co-operatives will have to meet these standards, hence the need to act now.

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, says: “This is about accounting standards, but it’s bigger than that: it is part of the work Co-operatives UK, with its members, does every day to create a legislative environment that provides co-operatives with a level playing field.”

Click here to read Co-operatives UK’s submission.

Superstore gets the go-ahead

by Ethos public relations

Partners in the multi million pound redevelopment of Hattersley are celebrating today as the Government Office for the North West has confirmed that the Secretary of State will not intervene in the recent planning approval decision for a new superstore to be built on land off Stockport Road and Ashworth Lane.

Peak Valley Housing Association and Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council are the landowners of the site which now has the green light for the development of a 90,000 sq ft Tesco store and a district centre.

“This is the news Hattersley has been waiting for,” said Peak Valley Housing Association Managing Director Phil Corris. “The land has been earmarked for commercial development since 2005 and we are delighted that our plans to bring local facilities and around 450 new jobs can at last be realised.”

The scheme is part of the Masterplan for the area and has the support of partners Peak Valley Housing Association, Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council, the Homes and Communities Agency, developer CTP and the majority of the 7,000 Hattersley residents.

First Deputy, Cllr Jim Fitzpatrick, who represents Hyde Godley ward, which includes parts of Hattersley, is delighted by the decision. He said: “This is excellent news and adds to the regeneration and redevelopment of the area.”

Mrs Brenda Duddridge local resident and Chair of the Hattersley Environment, Housing and Regeneration Theme Group is also pleased that the views of the majority of Hattersley’s residents have been respected. “Residents are the main stakeholders in this,” she said. “It’s great that we will finally have the ‘significant retail outlet’ that has been called for in consultations and discussions with local residents dating back to before 2000.”

The new development will comprise a Tesco Extra as well as a ‘community hub’ which will provide a base for the library service, Hattersley Neighbourhood Partnership, the police, the community association, Peak Valley Housing Association offices as well as numerous other community groups.

Keith McCormack, from developers CTP, added: "We have been working closely with Tesco, land owners Peak Valley Housing Association and the council to produce this exciting scheme. It’s great news to have the final seal of approval on what will be gateway scheme for Hattersley.”

It is anticipated that work on the new development will start in April 2011 with the new store expected to open for business around Easter 2012. The new community facilities are likely to be ready at the same time.

Matthew Magee, Tesco Corporate Affairs Manager commented: “We're delighted with this news. Our store and the job creation involved will be a real boost for the area and we're grateful to all the residents of Hattersley for their support."

Contour switch on affordable warmth strategy

by Ethos public relations

As colder weather approaches Contour Homes is asking its thousands of residents to switch on their central heating system now and check it is in full working order.

Steven Partner Group Assistant Director for Asset Management: “We are working with PH Jones using text messages to ask customers to test their central heating system is in full working order before the really cold weather sets in. If customers do have any problems hopefully they can be identified and rectified now before it gets really cold."

This unique initiative is one of a number being developed as part of Contour’s Affordable Warmth Strategy which has been produced in association with external experts and tenant representatives.

Contour wants to improve the ability of customers to meet their fuel costs and reduce the number of customers who experience fuel poverty. Consumer focused activities will include producing tariff advice and guidance via the website and tenant magazine, developing and sharing energy saving hints and tips, providing free energy saving devices and training and devising an annual road show schedule of energy saving road shows to schemes, estate, schools and shopping centres.

“The strategy is part of a bigger Contour Housing Group Sustainable and Environmental Strategy,” adds Steven. “We are working closely with our contractor PH Jones to implement specific initiatives like the central heating test and providing face to face advice when operatives carry out annual gas safety checks.”

Contour Homes is also looking research a competitive preferred supplier agreement and will be researching and providing information to tenants about grant funding criteria. Staff and tenant champions will be trained to provide proactive energy efficiency advice to as many customers as possible and affordable warmth will be linked to Group wide property maintenance strategies.

Residents from the Major Works panel were heavily involved in the development of the strategy and Eileen Hutchinson Contour Homes tenant and Group Board Member believes it is an exemplar in the industry.

“With the help of an external consultant we have worked hard to ensure that we not only meet but exceed guidelines,” she said.

“We have looked at every element of Contour’s work to develop and roll out a programme of activity over the next few years which we believe will have a genuine impact in reducing fuel poverty for Contour Homes residents.”

Buckinghamshire hopeful to hit the Big Apple for one of the world’s largest marathons

by Ethos public relations

A 20-year-old from Chesham is in training for the world’s biggest marathon in New York this year to help raise money for national charity Action For Kids.

Samuel Harrison, who is currently studying IT Management for Business at Loughborough University, is one of 20 runners taking part in the marathon on 7 November to help raise funds for the charity which supports children, young people and their families with physical and learning disabilities across the country.

“I have always wanted to take part in a marathon and help raise money for a good cause such as Action For Kids,” said Samuel. “The New York Marathon will be a fantastic challenge which will really test my own discipline, and I hope to complete it in about four and a half hours and raise £1,500 for the charity.”

The New York City Marathon is a major annual marathon with the course running through all five boroughs of New York City, and is one of the largest marathons in the world, with 43,659 finishers in 2009.

Carolyn Mwaniki, Fundraising Events Manager at Action for Kids, said: “It is fantastic to have Samuel and the whole team running for us. They have all set themselves fundraising targets and hope to raise as much as £30,000 for the charity, which is brilliant! We are truly grateful to everyone who is taking part.”

The marathon, organised by New York Road Runners (NYRR) has taken place every year since 1970. It is held on the first Sunday of November and attracts professional competitors and amateurs from all over the world. Because of the popularity of the race, participation is limited to 37,000 entrants chosen largely by a lottery system.

The charity also provides disabled young people, up to the age of 26, with specialist mobility equipment, and an on-going maintenance program to keep wheelchairs working. The equipment, which is provided on a permanent loan scheme, means that Action for Kids covers the cost of maintaining and servicing the wheelchairs on an ongoing basis, removing a major financial burden from families, the maintenance scheme has also recently been extended to cover privately-owned wheelchairs.

To sponsor Samuel, please visit his personal sponsorship page at www.justgiving.com/Sam-Harrison.

To find out more about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website www.actionforkids.org.

To sponsor the Action for Kids runners in the New York Marathon, please visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Newyorkrunners.

And for more information about the New York Marathon, please visit www.nycmarathon.org.

Hyndburn Homes oldest resident looks forward to refurb

by Ethos public relations

Eveline Burke is looking forward to having a new kitchen and bathroom installed in her sheltered accommodation flat at Franklin Ainsworth House in Great Harwood – and at 101 years old social landlord Hyndburn Homes believe Eveline is their oldest resident.

“Eveline and the other residents at Franklin Ainsworth will be having their properties completely overhauled by our Contractor Bramall Construction and we will be doing some improvement work on the communal areas of the scheme,” said Susan Haworth Customer Liaison Officer at Hyndburn Homes who recently visited Eveline to talk about the forthcoming work.

“The improvements are part of the multi million pound refurbishment of our housing stock and when working with vulnerable people like the elderly we have to organise the work with military precision.”

Eveline was born on 4th July 1909 in Accrington and was one of ten children. Like many of her generation she worked half a day in a mill and went to school for half a day. She married Arthur in 1938 and together they ran a painting and decorating business in the local area. They had no children themselves but Eveline, now a widow, has plenty of nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

“It was lovely to meet with Eveline who is a delightful lady,” said Susan. “We had a nice chat and she told me her secret to such a long life was keeping off the drink! She is an inspiration to everyone and is really looking forward to having her home refurbished.”

Wheelchair dancer shows Strictly’s stars a few moves!

by Ethos public relations

Strictly Come Dancing stars Jimi Mistry and Flavia Cacace learnt a few new moves from the first UK woman to graduate with a mainstream dance degree using a wheelchair – thanks to national kids charity Action For Kids.

27-year-old Lorna Marsh, who is believed to be the UK’s only choreographer using a wheelchair, met Jimi, star of East Is East, and his partner Flavia at a gym in north London and taught the Strictly stars a few of her own moves.

Lorna, who has Cerebral Palsy, has had a passion for performing, theatre and dance since the age of six and now, thanks to a powered wheelchair from Action For Kids, she is able to achieve her real potential.

The new wheelchair has given Lorna much more independence, and now, not only has she managed to complete a Dance and Professional Practice degree, but she has also set up her own company called Smooth Wheels Dance Company.

Lloyd Scott from Action For Kids said: “It was great that Jimi and Flavia took time out of their hectic training schedule to come and meet Lorna and students from Action For Kids and show off their moves to us. The kids loved seeing the stars they watch each Saturday night.

“Lorna is such an inspirational woman. We are delighted that the wheelchair has helped Lorna so much and it shows the importance of what we do at Action For Kids.”

To find out more about Action For Kids please visit www.actionforkids.org.

Watch out for bats this Halloween

by Ethos public relations

If you are planning to be in the Within Grove area this Halloween – watch out for bats!

Housing Association Hyndburn Homes has recently re-housed some local bats which it discovered in one of its empty properties.

Brian French, Project Supervisor from Hyndburn Homes, said: “We were recently carrying out an inspection of an empty home when we spotted evidence of bats living in the property. Bats are a protected species and so we immediately contacted the Bat Conservation Trust to ask their advice. They put us in touch with local experts Bowland Ecology who came to see our bats for themselves.”

The ecologists carefully removed the bats from the house and checked they were fit and well. As a protected species it was important the bats presence went on record.

Ellen Partrington from Bowland Ecology gave Hyndburn Homes advice on keeping the bats safe and the company has now purchased bat boxes to put up in the area to keep the bats safe and to attract new ones.

“Hyndburn Homes did exactly the right thing in protecting these amazing animals,” she said. “Many companies just ignore bats or disturb their habitat and so it is nice to see a company taking such care of these little ones.”

Bats are an important part of our natural environment. There are 18 species of bat in the UK (17 of which are known to be breeding here), and all of which are protected by law. At this time of year bats are starting to seek out suitable sites for hibernation. These are cool, quiet places like holes in trees or disused buildings.

“Bats don’t suck your blood or fly into your hair,” said Susan Howarth, Customer Liaison Manager for the company. “They are docile creatures who avoid contact with humans so if you do fancy a bit of bat watching this Halloween – you will be perfectly safe.”

Half term antics at Avenues and Hollins

by Ethos public relations

Residents living on the Avenues & Hollins estate in Oldham can enjoy an active half-term (25th – 29th October) thanks to Contour Homes.

Sarah Furbey from Contour Homes said: “We are working with various partners to deliver a range of activities for children of all ages to keep them entertained during the school holidays.”

Young people aged between 6 and12 yeas old and keen to develop their dance skills can learn some dynamic routines as they take part in a Street Dancing workshop at the Community Hall on First Avenue on Monday 25th October 6 – 7pm (£3 per child).

Children who want to improve their football skills, will be able to take part in free football coaching sessions run by Football Coaching for the Communities (FCFC) and Contour Homes. The sessions for children aged 6 years and over start at Limeside Park running Monday to Friday, 10am – 12pm and 1pm – 3pm. On Tuesday 26th October there will also be a session 5pm – 6pm. A registration form must be completed and these are available from the Contour Homes office or from any of the sessions.

Parents for Play, www.parentsforplay.org.uk are running fun packed play sessions for children at the Community Hall from Monday 25th October until Thursday 29th October from 1 – 3pm. Children aged between 3 and 11 years can enjoy educational play activities while parents and carers meet new friends and chat.

If you want any further information about any of these activities or a registration form pop into Contour Homes office on First Avenue or contact Sarah Furbey on 07985538229 or email sarah.furbey@contourhousing.co.uk.

Spending Review encourages co-operatives

by Ethos public relations

Co-operatives UK has welcomed the recognition given by Chancellor, George Osborne to co-operatives in today’s Comprehensive Spending Review.

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, said: “Amid all the cuts and bad news, we are pleased that George Osborne included direct references to communities running services, owning assets and for public service workers to form co-operatives.

“This shows that the Government is putting its Manifesto commitments to co-operatives into practice.”

The Spending Review also included direct mention of developing a new right for public sector workers to form employee-owned co-operatives and mutuals to take over the services they deliver.

“While this is something we certainly welcome, we need to ensure that the new mutuals are true to their values and principles and come about through bottom up demand by public sector workers themselves,” said Ed.

'Proposals a crude safety valve - cobbled together'

by Ethos public relations

Mike Creamer, Chief Executive of Contour Housing Group - one of the North West’s biggest housing and regeneration organisations - has commented on today’s announcements regarding social housing.

“The leaked misinformation over the last few days has done nothing to soften the impact of these massive cuts, especially when combined with the housing benefit restrictions already announced.

“Limiting the security of tenure through intermediate tenancies will not improve the supply of affordable rented homes for those on lowest incomes in the short term. Far worse, in the long term insecure tenure will drive out the economically active from neighbourhoods, leaving residual communities on permanent benefit – a return to the early 1980`s.

“The prospect of more new homes at near market rents should also not be misunderstood. Something is needed for the millions of younger people who can’t afford to buy, but who are not poor enough to qualify for traditional rented homes. However, Government will not want housing benefit to be paid on these higher rents. It is unlikely therefore that these “150,000 new homes” will be made available to those in greatest need.

“Overall, all that has been produced is a crude safety valve which will allow the pent up pressure for more homes to be relieved a little. The underlying causes remain. Housing Associations now need to work out how we can make the most of the cobbled together machinery and turn it in to something that works for those needing our help.”

Spending Review offers co-operative opportunity

by Ethos public relations

Wednesday’s Spending Review is the biggest opportunity yet for the Government to put its Manifesto commitments to co-operatives into practice says Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK.

“If the Spending Review includes reference to public sector staff bidding to run services as mutuals or social enterprises,” says Ed, “then I want to see the co-operative route seen as the solution to public service delivery.”

Speaking ahead of the Spending Review, when George Osborne will deliver the government’s comprehensive four-year public spending plans, Ed said: “Amid the cuts and uncertainty, it is even more important to recognise the co-operative approach of staff consent and the business case in setting clear contracts that can offer stability over time.

“I hope the spending review doesn’t waste the opportunity to harness the creativity and expertise of our public servants.

“I am hoping to see direct mention of public sector staff bidding to run public services and would urge government to see the co-operative model as the way forward. Co-operatives are three times more trusted than PLCs and thanks to their unique membership ethos, they are more accountable and enshrine democratic participation.”

Ed says: “Overseas, health service in Japan, social care in Italy and further education in Portugal are all delivered by co-operatives. But, the whole point of co-operatives is that they are owned and run by members as independent businesses – they will work best as ‘bottom up enterprises’ and not imposed from the top.

“Real co-operatives have to live up to certain conditions to earn that classification. Whilst we think that all business can benefit from being more co?operative, to be recognised as a co?operative business means signing up to certain principles such as equality, autonomy and open membership.”

Co-operatives UK, the national trade association for co-operative enterprises, has already developed a referral service in answer to a growing number of public service enquiries.

Ed says: “We know that there is an urgent need for this government to start with staff onside by giving hard-pressed workers practical and balanced information and advice.”

For anyone looking into setting up a co-operative as an alternative way to deliver public services, Co-operatives UK provides an online resource and business support referral service at www.uk.coop/publicservices.

Save energy and win prizes with new monthly e-newsletter

by Ethos public relations

To help celebrate Energy Saving Week (25-31 October), Greener Together – the co-operative way is launching a new monthly e-newsletter packed full of competitions and incentives as well as handy tips to help those signed up to the project save even more energy and live greener.

“The Green Me newsletter is designed to help our ‘pioneers’ do even more great things to save energy and live in a more sustainable way,” said Michelle Lockwood, manager of Greener Together, an initiative run by Co-operatives UK.

“Each month, we will be asking our pioneers what they are doing to live a greener lifestyle and each month, we will have differently themed competitions and will be looking for the co-operative (Pioneers of the month) where winners will receive cash prizes, for collectively, being the most green.”

The Green Me competitions will include prizes for the best video or short story submitted by pioneers illustrating what they have been doing as part of Greener Together and prizes for pioneers of the month that have collectively saved the most CO2. A two-minute video can be posted on the new Greener Together YouTube account or pioneers can submit a 250-word short story which fits the monthly theme. Both winners will be featured for one month on the Greener Together website.

The video with the most hits will win £50 and the winning short story will receive £25. And the co-operative that has saved the most CO2 and reduction to landfill on waste, will win a prize worth £30.

Greener Together – the co-operative way helps co-operatives make a significant impact on climate change, and reduce their environmental impact in the three key areas of energy, waste and personal transport.

To find out more about Greener Together, visit the website at www.greenertogether.coop.

Nottingham City Homes signs up to VFM Learning

by Ethos public relations

Housing e-Academy, one of the country’s leading providers of e-learning in the social housing sector has won a contract to provide e-learning to Nottingham City Homes.

Nottingham City Homes manages around 29,000 council homes across Nottingham and has 1,400 staff.

Rob Clapham, Learning and Development Officer for Nottingham City Homes said: “This is a great opportunity to deliver high quality learning at a much lower cost than traditional training, whilst reducing the time people have to spend away from service delivery.

“The support we have received so far has been excellent, and we have high hopes and expectations for the future!”

Nottingham City Homes has signed up to Housing e-Academy’s Bronze membership package which gives access to five e-learning modules for all 1,400 staff for one year.

“Many organisations appreciate how e-learning provides excellent value for money in comparision to traditional learning methods,” said Chloe Weatherhead Head of Housing e-Academy.

“Nottingham City Homes is one of a number of recent new members to the Housing e-Academy as social housing providers recognise the value of flexible e-learning which has been designed specifically for the sector.”

For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk.

Croydon adrenaline junkie completes skydive challenge

by Ethos public relations

Adrenaline junkie Jio Xavier threw caution to the wind and jumped out of an aeroplane at 12,000ft near Ashford in Kent on Saturday 9 October to raise money for national disability charity Action For Kids.

Jio, from Croydon, who recently took part in a bungee jump at 165ft near Tower Bridge in London, raised more than £800 for Action For Kids, which helps to support children and young people with physical and learning disabilities and their parents and carers across the UK.

The IT software professional said he decided to do the skydive, at Headcorn Parachute Club near Ashford, as it combined his passions for both charity and adventure.

“It was an amazing feeling jumping out of the plane and an awesome experience,” Jio said. “I set myself a fundraising target of £600, and am thrilled to have raised more than £800 for Action For Kids.

“I couldn’t wait to put my name down for the skydive after seeing an advert about it in the paper,” said 27-year-old Jio. “Being a real adrenaline junkie myself and after reading case studies about how Action for Kids helps young people across the UK, I signed up straight away.

“I believe that children are the future of any nation and their well being is pivotal. Being able to help them in this way, gives me immense satisfaction.”

Lloyd Scott MBE, Director of Fundraising at Action For Kids, said: “It is fantastic that Jio has completed the skydive challenge to raise money for us and we are truly grateful for his courageous fundraising effort. The money he has raised will be invaluable to the work we do and will be warmly received by everyone at the charity.”

For more information about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website at www.actionforkids.org.

Residents show off new garden

by Ethos public relations

Contour Homes residents at Newbarn Court sheltered scheme in Blackburn recently invited the local community to attend an open day marking the official opening of the newly renovated gardens.

Last year Scheme Manager Ann Whitehead was delighted to learn that Newbarn Court had successfully secured a £10,000 Big Lottery grant to transform the existing residents’ garden, situated to the side of the scheme on Rockliffe Street. The work has now been completed.

“Not only can residents take advantage of the lovely new garden but it has also had an impact on resident enquiries,” said Ann. “Since completion we have had more enquiries about living here than ever before and all our flats have now been let.”

The garden make over has seen the lawn extended and a new patio area has been laid complete with garden furniture and potted plants making it a welcoming retreat for residents. The rear of the garden has been brightened up with two raised flower beds, which are tended to by children from nearby Longshaw Junior School, who come on a regular basis to plant and weed the beds.

“It’s great for the children as they have had fun learning how to grow things from our residents. It’s always nice to see the older and young generations getting on so well together,” adds Ann.

The open day included lots of activities from tombola to a tattooist. Service providers including Contour Homes, Eldercare and the Police were available to give information and advice and all proceeds of the event are being donated to charity.

68 year old Bernard Mullen, Chair of the Newbarn Court Residents Association explained how the transformation of the gardens has made a difference to the community. “Residents can take advantage of the sunlight hours and sit on the patio having tea, coffee and refreshments,” he said. “It is also a delight to take your friends and family to sit down in comfort and enjoy the fresh air.”

Joinery proves to be great move for Jack

by Ethos public relations

As thousands of young people struggle to find education and training opportunities after leaving school and college, Jack Galvin considers himself to be one of the lucky ones.

Jack has landed a three year site joinery apprenticeship with Hyndburn Homes Repairs and at just 16 years old he already has two years practical experience under his belt thanks to a collaboration between Bramall Construction, Accrington Academy and Accrington & Rossendale College.

“I always knew I wanted to work in construction,” said Jack who lives in Laneside with his parents. “I was really pleased when I found out that I could start getting some practical skills when I was 14 because it confirmed that this was the career for me.”

As a pupil at Accrington Academy Jack was able to attend Accrington & Rossendale College one day a week to learn the theory and work with Bramall Construction one day a week getting work experience. He eventually left school with GSCE’s not just in academic subjects like English, maths and science but also with vocational qualifications in general construction, health and safety, bricklaying, joinery, painting and decorating.

“Jack’s record at school and his references from the College and Bramall showed him to be a young man who is hard working and determined to succeed in his construction career,” said Paul Earnshaw Team Leader at Hyndburn Homes Repairs. “This is exactly the kind of attitude we want from our apprentices.”

“The apprentices like Jack work with craftsmen and women from various trades and concentrate on the trade of their choice - in Jack’s case joinery,” said Paul. “When he finishes his apprenticeship in three years he will be a time served and qualified joiner.”

The National Apprenticeship Serivce has a priority to deliver more young people to undertake an Apprenticeship. The longer term target is for at least one out of every five young people to be undertaking an Apprenticeship programme by 2020 and Jack is a firm believer in the benefits of this route.

“I’m the sort of person that learns by doing things rather than reading about it,” he said. “I’m getting lots of experience bringing empty properties up to standard for new tenants and watching how qualified joiners work.

“I still go to college once a week to do the theory which is obviously important – but for me, getting my hands dirty is the best part of the apprenticeship.”

Bedfordshire hopeful to hit the Big Apple for one of the world’s largest marathons

by Ethos public relations

A 23-year-old from Luton is in training for the world’s biggest marathon in New York this year to help raise money for national charity Action For Kids.

Liam Kennedy, who has just graduated from Loughborough University with a first in Chemistry and Sports Science, is one of 20 runners taking part in the marathon on 7 November to help raise funds for the charity which supports children, young people and their families with physical and learning disabilities across the country.

“In preparation for The New York Marathon, I have completed a few half marathons so far this year, and hope to complete the New York circuit in around three and a half hours and raise £1,500 for Action For Kids,” Liam said.

Carolyn Mwaniki, Fundraising Events Manager at Action for Kids, said: “It is fantastic to have Liam and the whole team running for us. They have all set themselves fundraising targets and hope to raise as much as £30,000 for the charity, which is brilliant! We are truly grateful to everyone who is taking part.”

National charity Action For Kids, through its “Towards Independence” programmes, helps disabled children, young people and their families lead more independent lives through the provision of specialist services such as: training in independent living skills and work related learning; a family support service; a national help line and much more. The charity also provides disabled young people, up to the age of 26, with specialist mobility equipment, and an on-going maintenance program to keep wheelchairs working.

The equipment, which is provided on a permanent loan scheme, means that Action for Kids covers the cost of maintaining and servicing the wheelchairs on an ongoing basis, removing a major financial burden from families, the maintenance scheme has also recently been extended to cover privately-owned wheelchairs.

To sponsor Liam, please visit his personal sponsorship page at www.justgiving.com/liam-kennedy.

To find out more about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website www.actionforkids.org.

To sponsor the Action for Kids runners in the New York Marathon, please visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Newyorkrunners.

And for more information about the New York Marathon, please visit www.nycmarathon.org.

Middlesex hopeful to hit the Big Apple for one of the world’s largest marathons

by Ethos public relations

A 22-year-old from Brentford is in training for the world’s biggest marathon in New York this year to help raise money for national charity Action For Kids.

Marlon King, who has just graduated from Loughborough University with a Business degree, is one of 20 runners taking part in the marathon on 7 November to help raise funds for the charity which supports children, young people and their families with physical and learning disabilities across the country.

“In order to prepare for the New York Marathon, I have been doing my own half marathon runs as quickly as I can, to build up my stamina,” said Marlon. “I am aiming to complete the New York circuit in three hours, fifty minutes and hope to raise £1,500 or more for Action For Kids.”

Carolyn Mwaniki, Fundraising Events Manager at Action for Kids, said: “It is fantastic to have Marlon and the whole team running for us. They have all set themselves fundraising targets and hope to raise as much as £30,000 for the charity, which is brilliant! We are truly grateful to everyone who is taking part.”

The charity also provides disabled young people, up to the age of 26, with specialist mobility equipment, and an on-going maintenance program to keep wheelchairs working.

To sponsor Marlon, please visit his personal sponsorship page at www.justgiving.com/marlon-king

To find out more about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website www.actionforkids.org

To sponsor the Action for Kids runners in the New York Marathon, please visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Newyorkrunners

And for more information about the New York Marathon, please visit www.nycmarathon.org

Britain suffers from low levels of fairness according to new economic indicator

by Ethos public relations

A new economic indicator launched by Co-operatives UK outside the Stock Exchange today reveals that, while politicians talk fairness, the public believe that the UK is an unfair nation.

‘The Co-operative Barometer’ is a new index that tracks public perceptions of how easy it is to get ahead and how easy it is to fall behind in the UK. The result can be tracked over time to see how the country responds to economic uncertainty and the new government austerity.

The first Co-operative Barometer scores the UK at only 14, out of a possible top score of 100. The initial research, which surveyed over 1,000 adults, was run by George Street Research on behalf of Co-operatives UK.

“A sense of fairness is good for consumers and markets, but with uncertain times ahead, most people do not believe that ‘we are all in this together’,” comments Ed Mayo, author of the report, The Co-operative Barometer: how fair is Britain?, which accompanies the index.

The new findings on fairness show that:

- One in three people (32%) believe there are equal opportunities in the UK
- One in four (25%) believe that Britons do their bit to help people in need
- The only region across the UK that stands out with a positive view of helping out others is the North East of England
- Over two thirds of people (68%) say that people don’t behave towards others in the way that they would want to be treated
- One in five (19%) say that they way business treats them is fair. For co-operative businesses, this is three quarters of people (75%)
- Only one in ten people (10%) believe the distribution of wealth is fair.

“If you think that fairness is just motherhood and apple pie, try dividing up the pie unequally between children and watch what happens” comments Ed Mayo, who is Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, the network of co-operative enterprises. “We care about fairness and we also have an instinctive, though not always consistent, sense of what is fair or unfair.”

“In a service economy such as the UK, markets do better when people know they will be treated fairly. In asking the people of Britain how fair they feel we are as a nation, we are helping to fill a gap. We hope that fairness can become a regular and recognised measure of economic trends.”

The full report - ‘The Co-operative Barometer: how fair is Britain?’ is available at
www.uk.coop/resources/documents/co-operative-barometer.

Suffolk hopeful to hit the Big Apple for one of the world’s largest marathons

by Ethos public relations

A 19-year-old from Brantham is in training for the world’s biggest marathon in New York this year to help raise money for national charity Action For Kids.

Edward Nobbs, who is currently studying Maths and Sports Science at Loughborough University, is one of 20 runners taking part in the marathon on 7 November to help raise funds for the charity which supports children, young people and their families with physical and learning disabilities across the country.

“I have focused on a training schedule of running shorter distances - four or five times a week - during the week and running longer distances at weekends,” said Edward. “I hope to complete the New York circuit in less than four hours and raise £1,500 or more for Action For Kids.”

Carolyn Mwaniki, Fundraising Events Manager at Action for Kids, said: “It is fantastic to have Edward and the whole team running for us. They have all set themselves fundraising targets and hope to raise as much as £30,000 for the charity, which is brilliant! We are truly grateful to everyone who is taking part.”

The charity also provides disabled young people, up to the age of 26, with specialist mobility equipment, and an on-going maintenance program to keep wheelchairs working.

To sponsor Edward, please visit his personal sponsorship page at www.justgiving.com/Ed-Nobbs

To find out more about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website www.actionforkids.org

To sponsor the Action for Kids runners in the New York Marathon, please visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Newyorkrunners

And for more information about the New York Marathon, please visit www.nycmarathon.org

Southampton hopeful to hit the Big Apple for one of the world’s largest marathons

by Ethos public relations

An 18-year-old from Copythorne is in training for the world’s biggest marathon in New York this year to help raise money for national charity Action For Kids.

Peter Hall, who is currently studying Sports Science and English at Loughborough University, is one of 20 runners taking part in the marathon on 7 November to help raise funds for the charity which supports children, young people and their families with physical and learning disabilities across the country.

“The New York Marathon is an incredible opportunity and challenge for me, and I have always wanted to visit New York and taste the city that never sleeps,” Peter said. “I would love to complete the marathon in four hours or less and I hope to raise more than £2,000 for Action For Kids.”

Carolyn Mwaniki, Fundraising Events Manager at Action for Kids, said: “It is fantastic to have Peter and the whole team running for us. They have all set themselves fundraising targets and hope to raise as much as £30,000 for the charity, which is brilliant! We are truly grateful to everyone who is taking part.”

The charity also provides disabled young people, up to the age of 26, with specialist mobility equipment, and an on-going maintenance program to keep wheelchairs working.

To sponsor Peter, please visit his personal sponsorship page at www.justgiving.com/Peter-Hall17

To find out more about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website www.actionforkids.org

To sponsor the Action for Kids runners in the New York Marathon, please visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Newyorkrunners

And for more information about the New York Marathon, please visit www.nycmarathon.org

Derby hopeful to hit the Big Apple for one of the world’s largest marathons

by Ethos public relations

A 23-year old Youth Project Officer from Oakwood is in training for the world’s biggest marathon in New York this year to help raise money for national charity Action For Kids.

Neesha Memetovic, who ran the Nottingham half marathon last year, is one of 20 runners taking part in the marathon on 7 November to help raise funds for the charity which supports children, young people and their families with physical and learning disabilities across the country.

“I have always wanted to run a marathon and am really looking forward to the challenge of the New York circuit,” Neesha said. “In preparation, I have completed a 10k run and a half-marathon.

She added: “The New York Marathon is a great personal challenge for me, and I am looking forward to seeing all the hard work pay off on the day. I think Action For Kids does an exceptional job and I want to raise at least £1,500 for the charity.”

Carolyn Mwaniki, Fundraising Events Manager at Action for Kids, said: “It is fantastic to have Neesha and the whole team running for us. They have all set themselves fundraising targets and hope to raise as much as £30,000 for the charity, which is brilliant! We are truly grateful to everyone who is taking part.”

To sponsor Neesha, please visit her personal sponsorship page at www.justgiving.com/NEESHA-MEMETOVIC0

To find out more about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website www.actionforkids.org

To sponsor the Action for Kids runners in the New York Marathon, please visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Newyorkrunners

And for more information about the New York Marathon, please visit www.nycmarathon.org

Credit unions can help increase diversity in financial services

by Ethos public relations

Credit unions, according to Mark Lyonette, Chief Executive of ABCUL – the Association of British Credit Unions – are in an ideal position to help the Government achieve its aim of increasing diversity in financial services.

Speaking at a fringe event at the Conservative Party Conference, Mark Lyonette explained how credit unions now serve nearly a million people in England, Scotland and Wales and sought reassurance from Financial Services Secretary Mark Hoban that the Coalition Government would support the sector to expand and serve more people.

“Once new legislation is in place – and we sincerely hope that any further delays can be avoided – many more individuals, as well as local community groups and businesses, will be able to access credit union services. We are confident that everyone in Britain will soon be able to join a credit union and have the option of a mutual and local home for their money.

“I look forward to seeing how the Government’s aims of fostering diversity and promoting mutuals will translate into action to support the growth of the credit union sector.”

Financial Secretary to the Treasury Mark Hoban MP, who also spoke at the fringe meeting, said: “The Government supports credit unions as part of its policy commitment to foster diversity in financial services, promote mutuals and create a more competitive banking industry.

“I believe that strong credit unions, as part of a diverse financial services sector, will greatly enrich British society. It is in our interest, therefore, that the credit union movement should prosper and we are determined to help credit unions grow and expand into the future.”

Smart Kids expansion plans given green light thanks to unique funding

by Ethos public relations

A unique Fulwood-based childcare Social Enterprise which is run for the good of the community will soon be expanding, taking in additional children and employing more staff, thanks to a six figure loan from The Social Enterprise Loan Fund (TSELF).

Smart Kids Childcare has been awarded a loan from The Social Enterprise Loan Fund (TSELF) which will enable the organisation to refurbish a newly acquired building at former Sharoe Green Hospital in Fulwood, in order to provide vital childcare facilities for working parents, single parents and those attending higher education who require full or part-time care for their children in the local community.

Smart Kids Childcare, recently marked as outstanding in all areas by Ofsted, was established in 1975 as a pre-school nursery operating as a charitable trust to provide care and education for children between the ages of two and eight, and currently employs six members of staff who are fully qualified and Criminal Records Bureau checked.

The move to the new premises will enable Smart Kids to employ additional staff to look after an increased number of children, as the refurbishment means the organisation will now be able to provide excellent nursery facilities for 105 children.

Lynda Hayes, Director and Practice Manager at Smart Kids, said: “When we moved out of our former home, we were looking for somewhere that we could move to in order to fully expand the business.

“After initially struggling to find a suitable location, it was great to find such a fantastic site and the loan from TSELF has been invaluable as it now means we can fully refurbish the new property to a very high standard.

“We are truly grateful for the superb support we have received from TSELF, and we are very much looking forward to completing all the work on the building and continuing to offer outstanding childcare services to even more busy parents.”

Roy White, regional director for TSELF, said: “We are delighted to be able to help Smart Kids in this way. No other childcare provider in the area offers the full range of services and varied flexible sessions – including a baby unit, nursery, before and after school and holiday care – that Smart Kids will now be able to offer.”

Smart Kids Childcare, which looks after children from the hours of 7.30am – 6pm, plans to move into its new premises in November.

TSELF is a Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI) and a registered charity providing loans ranging from £3,000 to £250,000 to social enterprises and charities and has, to date, invested £8million in social enterprises across the UK, helping clients to generate job opportunities as well as training places.

For further information about Smart Kids Childcare please call 07940 891622.

For more details about TSELF in the North West visit www.tself.org.uk or call 01829 261019.

Sheltered Housing in Rochdale gets top marks

by Ethos public relations

Residents living in sheltered housing in Rochdale can be assured of a high standard of care and support after Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) became one of only six ALMOs in the country to receive a nationally recognised accreditation.

Andrew Toft Director of Operations for RBH said: “The Centre for Housing Support (CHS) has awarded RBH a three year Code of Practice accreditation – a quality standard for organisations that provide sheltered housing services.

“The CHS inspected how the company delivers sheltered housing services and RBH has shown, through a great deal of hard work, that it is providing professional, person centred support services.”

In order to achieve the standard RBH had to demonstrate how it met ten quality standards including continuous improvement, equality and diversity, independence and empowerment, professional roles and responsibility, collaboration and community development and staff recruitment, training and support.

RBH employ around 30 warden staff to 27 sheltered housing schemes in the borough and Andrew Toft said that staff should be congratulated on this achievement.

“This accreditation is a great achievement. In receiving this external objective judgement we can tailor training and development to ensure we continue to improve the way we work which ultimately provides an enhanced service to our tenants.”

Regeneration industry warned that the days of ‘tick box’ consulting local people are over

by Ethos public relations

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, will warn the regeneration industry at a summit in Manchester next week that the days of ‘tick box’ consulting local people and then getting on with it are over.

Speaking ahead of the Northern Regeneration Summit, Ed Mayo says: “Big Society and less money will turn the relationship between the regeneration industry and local people on its head. Local people are the way to get things done – whether through local ideas, co-operative and community ownership, or local people's time, paid or voluntary.

“In future, regeneration professionals will need to be on tap, not on top.”

Ed goes on to explain that while it is certainly the case that society is trusted more than government, society should not be seen as a panacea.

Recent Co-operatives UK research shows that 61 per cent of people across the UK feel that the way government treats people is unfair, compared to 44 per cent who feel that the way people are treated in society is unfair.

Ed says: “This is a big improvement, but it is hardly a ringing endorsement.

“Embracing the ‘Big Society’ does not solve issues of fairness and for a minority it is like jumping from the fire back into the frying pan. Clearly, issues of fairness, such as open information and having a say, matter no less in a Big Society than they do with a Big Government.”

Government considers handing over the Post Office to its staff

by Ethos public relations

Co-operatives UK has responsed to the suggestion that the Government is considering handing over the Post Office to its staff.

Ed Mayo, Secretary General said: “The public has long had a love affair with ‘their’ post office. And this suggestion to create a co-operative with the opportunity for public as well as staff membership could capture the nation’s passion for local post offices.

"Co-operatives have a long track record of serving local communities - from co-operative shops on islands across the UK through to a resurgence of village shops saved from closing through community ownership.

"However, there will be no mutual option for the Post Office if there is no credible business plan. The withdrawal of subsidy, the demerger from the Royal Mail business and a question mark over levels of government services directed through the post office network are all fundamental issues that have to be resolved before a co-operative solution can ‘save the Post Office’.

"Cutting red tape and freeing up local postmasters and franchises, including co-operative societies that are partners, can also help make local outlets more viable.

"Reforming the Post Office will take time, and will involve both the renaissance of its business fortunes as well as serious effort in developing its membership base - built from the bottom up, not the top down. A truly co-operative Post Office might take some time to realise but could certainly pay dividends both to the staff but also the country as a whole.”

Welcome to our home!

by Ethos public relations

Two social housing organisations and their sheltered housing residents have recently teamed up to share ideas and experiences.

Residents living at Accent Foundation’s Kirk House in Hyndburn met with residents living at Hyndburn Homes Park View Court in Hyndburn in what has been described as a ‘Best Practice Visit’

Jill Brown Manager for Older People Services at Hyndburn Homes said: “We are a bit further forward in our service development than Accent and it wanted to show residents how older people services was managed here and what they could expect.

“Obviously it is important that residents are able to chat to their peers and find out the reality of how service change could impact on their lives and so the two groups had lunch together at Park View and chatted about their experiences of sheltered housing.”

Service differences include the fact that Hyndburn Homes sheltered schemes do not have staff living on site. Scheme wardens work ‘office hours’ five days a week.

In addition, Hyndburn Homes has developed a ‘floating support’ scheme which means residents over 55 years old who live in Hyndburn Homes properties are able to access most of the care and support services that are normally only available to residents living in sheltered accommodation.

As well as lunch residents showed their guests around their scheme and their individual flats. Gladys Jones, age 93 is a resident at Park View. She said: "I really enjoyed the event and the chance to meet new people who live in sheltered accommodation.”

Test your knowledge of the new Equality Act

by Ethos public relations

The coalition government will go ahead with the introduction of the Equality Act on October 1st. With the aim of making Britain a more equal society, the Act which was planned by the previous administration, has been broadly welcomed – however, there is concern that its implications have not been fully understood by the housing sector.

Chloe Weatherhead Head of Housing e-Academy said: “The Act includes a single ‘public sector equality duty’ applying to public bodies which embraces grounds such as sexual orientation and religious belief as well as race, disability and gender which comes into force next year.

“It’s vital housing staff fully understand and are prepared for the changes.

“To see if your staff fully understand the implications of the new Act – we’ve developed a short quiz which anyone can do via the Housing e-Academy website.”

Many Housing e-Academy members have requested help with the practical implementation of the Act. In response to this demand, the Housing e-Academy, has worked with Bradford based social housing provider Incommunities and Chris Root a leading equality and diversity consultant to develop a new e-learning course 'Opening Doors: Equality, Diversity & Cultural Awareness'.

Ian Stone, Incommunities’ Employee Learning & Development Consultant has completed the course. He said: “I understand more about the way in which cultural diversity is key to the success of our organisation. The module also helped me to think about wider diversity issues when attempting to meet the needs of our customers.”

Chloe said that any organisation concerned about staff knowledge of the Act and its implications will find this e-learning course useful. It takes around two hours to complete and can be done at a time and place to suit the individual.

“To find out if this course if for you, try the short quiz on our website which people can use as an informal tool to assess employee understanding of the new Act,” she said. “Making mistakes can be costly on every level and staff training may be required to ensure peace of mind for your business.”

For more information or to order a copy of ‘Opening Doors: Equality, Diversity & Cultural Awareness’ telephone Chloe Weatherhead on 01943 885085 or go to www.housingea.co.uk. For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk.

Sign up to support renewable heat incentive

by Ethos public relations

Co-operatives are calling on Government to introduce a renewable heat incentive as a major contribution to tackling climate change.

The Renewable Energy Association (REA) is campaigning for the introduction of a Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), similar to the Feed-in Tariff for electricity which went live in April, and Co-operatives UK, together with the Co-operative Group, is calling on members to support the campaign.

“The first six months of 2010 recorded the hottest ever global temperatures,” said Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, “and there is now a great opportunity for co-operative and community owned renewable heat providers to fulfil their potential.

“The RHI will unlock the opportunities for Big Society action on tackling climate change through co-operative and community owned renewable heat.”

Heat is responsible for 47 per cent of UK emissions and 49 per cent of UK energy demand, yet the UK is the poorest performer on renewable heat in Europe, apart from Malta, on just one per cent of total heat energy coming from renewables. It is expected that the RHI has the potential to deliver 12 per cent of our heat from renewable sources.

The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) is a new scheme that will pay energy consumers for the renewable heat they generate. The RHI will pay a fixed amount per year to those who install renewable heat equipment, such as solar water heating, heat pumps or woodfuel boilers, for ten to 23 years.

Ross Weddle, MD of CoRE said: ‘Across the UK we waste vast amounts of heat. Using the heat from energy production is one way to provide communities with sustainable heating. CoRE is working on Combined Heat and Power schemes involving wood chip, gasification of wood and anaerobic digestion. Under the current regime some of these are not financially viable. Co-operative heat and power systems that reduce CO2 emissions have been developed across northern Europe. Emulating this work in the UK will require an incentive that recognises the value of heat’.

“I’d like as many people as possible to show their support,” said Ed Mayo, “and sign up to the RHI petition to Treasury Chief Secretary, Danny Alexander, at www.38degrees.org.uk/page/s/heat-initiative.”

30% off large handmade rugs during October

by Ethos public relations

With Christmas just a few months away, the Frith Rugs up to 30% off promotion means you can spruce up your home just in time for the festive season.

“The addition of a new rug is one of the quickest and easiest ways to give any room in your house a brand new look,” said Andrew Frith. “If you are looking for a rug to wow visitors browse our huge stock of handmade traditional rugs and carpets – timeless classics that will never go out of fashion.”

Frith Rugs is offering 30% off its large handmade rugs 13’ x 10’ up to 27’ x 17’ in October (the offer does not apply to Afghan rugs).

Fine Indo Keshan – 14’ x 10’ (4.27m x 3.05m) was £4299.00, October Price £3009.30 - http://www.ethos-pr.com/workspace/resources/files/IPF002.jpg

Indo Persian Keshan – 18’ x 12’ (5.49m x 3.66m) was £5999, October Price £4199.30 - http://www.ethos-pr.com/workspace/resources/files/Indo-Persian-Keshan.jpg

Indian Zeigler – 18’ x 12’ (5.49m x 3.66m) was £6999.99, October Price £4899.30 - http://www.ethos-pr.com/workspace/resources/files/IZV070.JPG

30% off All* (Excludes Afghan) Large Handmade Rugs from 1st - 31st October 2010. This offer is for All (Except Afghan) Large Rectangle Rugs sized 13’ x 10' (4m x 3m) and up to 27' x 17' (8m x 5m).

For more information, visit www.frithrugs.co.uk or telephone 0845 4 900 600.

Greenfingers secure Hattersley work

by Ethos public relations

Peak Valley Housing Association has awarded an £80,000 landscape maintenance contract to Crewe based Greenfingers Landscape Limited.

Phil Corris Managing Director for Peak Valley Housing Association said: “The contract is for two years and subject to review. Greenfingers will be responsible for the communal landscaped area of the Hattersley estate in Tameside complementing the work done by Tameside Council who look after the adopted areas.”

Staff from Greenfingers depot in Trafford Park will be delivering the contract. Director Lisa Higginbottom said: “We are very pleased to be working in Hattersley where residents and Peak Valley can be assured of our commitment to quality maintenance and customer care.”

North West ALMOs develops unique Internship

by Ethos public relations

ALMO Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) is hosting an internship with other North West ALMOs in association with Manchester University’s Graduate Intern Programme. The two year programme for four students will provide a unique training experience allowing access to different projects, disciplines and organisations.

Clare Tostevin, Head of New Business & Regeneration for RBH said: “After the success of an RBH internship in 2009 we were keen to develop something more formal that involved our colleagues across Greater Manchester.

“There is a pool of graduate talent across the region and the scheme looked for the best people to nurture and develop as future leaders in housing and regeneration.”

With budget cuts and the forthcoming spending review many social housing providers are not recruiting staff but even before the current crisis Clare says that housing providers were struggling to recruit the right people.

“It’s been our experience that a committed intern brings a refreshing new approach to the business,” said Clare. “However, in order to benefit both parties the programme must be properly structured and interns must be mentored and supported.”

As host for the scheme RBH will provide each intern with a mentor and support shared learning across the ALMOs involved. Recruitment was carried out via Manchester University’s career service. The paid internship also includes the opportunity for post graduate study at Salford University’s Blended Learning Course in Housing, Regeneration and Sustainability.

Clare adds: “Because this internship offers the opportunity to work across different organisations as well as further study and qualifications it was vital we selected the right people. The successful recruits had to demonstrate an interest in housing and regeneration either via specific modules as part of their degree or through practical work experience.”

Supporting place making is at the core of the internship which will include projects such as developing new neighbourhood investment models, tackling worklessness and supporting innovations in new build design and retrofit.

Clare says more businesses in the sector should look at developing intern programmes. “The private sector has long recognised that internships add real value to an organisation and this scheme demonstrates how the social housing sector is now catching up.”

“Recent figures suggest there are 100,000 well qualified young people not in education, employment or training and 40,000 of these have a degree level qualification which is another reason why it is so important to develop our future workforce.”

The four interns are Abbie Booth, Sarah Taylor, Carl Monk and Matthew Corry who between them graduated at Manchester, Salford and Oldham.

Summer activities a hit with Hornsey youngsters

by Ethos public relations

Young disabled people from across north London had great fun learning how to play table tennis and won awards for their efforts, thanks to a summer activity programme with a difference.

Table tennis was just one of the many sporting activities in the fun-packed summer programme as well as basketball, volleyball, martial arts, tennis and football, all provided by national disability charity, Action For Kids.

The six-week activity programme, which ran Monday to Friday, throughout the summer holidays, also included cookery lessons, creative classes and Beat Bullying sessions.

“I had a fantastic time,” said Jignesh Thacker, one of the youngsters who successfully completed the table tennis coaching programme.

A total of 46 youngsters, aged between 14 and 25, with severe learning difficulties and a wide range of physical disabilities took part in the sporting activities and also enjoyed fun days out, trips to the cinema and visits from dog handlers with police sniffer dogs, hearing dogs and pet therapy dogs.

Jo Read, Work Related Learning Director at Action For Kids, said that as well as having a great time during the summer, the programme of events provided respite for the young people’s families.

“The wide range of activities we ran throughout the summer holidays was so beneficial for the youngsters,” Jo said. “And it was fantastic to see just how much the young people developed over the six-week period.

“Learning new skills and new experiences really helps to build up the young people’s self confidence,” said Jo.

“Cooking and healthy eating supports the young people to become more independent. Sport helps their general health and fitness and it was fantastic to see some of the young people on the programme even gaining AQA certificates for their cooking skills.”

Action For Kids helps to support children and young people with physical and learning disabilities and their parents and carers across the UK. The Action For Kids summer activity programme is currently funded by the local authorities Positive Activities for Young People (PAYP) and Short Breaks for Disabled Children and Young People.

For more information about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website at www.actionforkids.org.

Rivers is Blooming!

by Ethos public relations

The Mayor and Mayoress of Bury, Councillor John Byrne and Mrs Brenda Byrne were guests of honour at the Rivers estate in Whitefield this week as they presented prizes to the ‘Rivers in Bloom’ gardening competition winners.

Andrew Taylor, Senior Community Warden for landlord Contour Homes said: “’Rivers in Bloom’ is a well established annual event and our thanks go to everyone who helped make the area so bright and beautiful.”

Residents were invited to enter six categories and the winners were:

Best Tenants’ Individual Garden

1st – Harry and Hilda Creegan (2nd – Ruth Wilkins, 3rd – Bernard Philbin)

Best Tenants’ Communal Garden

1st - Joan Lund (2nd – William Healey, 3rd – Helen Minton)

Best Basket/Tub Display

1st – Brenda and Harold Hyde (2nd – David Neild, 3rd – Wayne Brodie)

Most improved Tenants’ Garden

1st – Amanda Richardson Holt (2nd – Irene Howlett, 3rd – James Frith et al)

Best Residents’ Front Garden

1st – Kornieiev Nikolay (2nd - Janice Oates, 3rd – June Alsop)

Best Balcony Display

1st – Jean Fearon (2nd – Bill Healey)

Even those residents who had not won a category prize were included as Certificates of Appreciation and a £5 voucher kindly donated by Giants Seat Garden Centre were provided to those people who had made a visible contribution to the area by tidying and planting.

The Rivers Garden Club is held every Tuesday morning at 10am in St Michael’s old church hall, Ribble Drive and the Contour Homes Community Wardens are also on hand to lend advice and support.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea hopeful to hit the Big Apple for one of the world’s largest marathons

by Ethos public relations

A 19-year-old from Saltburn-by-the-Sea, is in training for the world’s biggest marathon in New York this year to help raise money for national charity Action For Kids.

Jonathan Norris, a Sport and Exercise Science student at Loughborough University, is one of 20 runners taking part in the marathon on 7 November to help raise funds for the charity which supports children, young people and their families with physical and learning disabilities across the country.

"I have always wanted to take part in a marathon and, as the university does a lot of work with Action For Kids, I was keen to get involved and help raise money for the charity," Jonathan said.

"Competing in the New York Marathon will be a physical and mental challenge for me and I have been doing a lot of running to prepare. At the moment, I am trying to do twenty miles a week. My target is to finish the Marathon in under four hours and I hope to raise £2,000 for Action For Kids."

Sarah Greene, Events Fundraiser at Action for Kids, said: "It is fantastic to have Jonathan and the whole team running for us. They have all set themselves fundraising targets and hope to raise as much as £30,000 for the charity, which is brilliant! We are truly grateful to everyone who is taking part."

National charity Action For Kids, through its "Towards Independence" programmes, helps disabled children, young people and their families lead more independent lives through the provision of specialist services such as: training in independent living skills and work related learning; a family support service; a national help line and much more. The charity also provides disabled young people, up to the age of 26, with specialist mobility equipment, and an on-going maintenance program to keep wheelchairs working.

To sponsor Jonathan, please visit his personal sponsorship page at
http://www.justgiving.com/Jonty-vs-NY
To find out more about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website www.actionforkids.org
To sponsor the Action for Kids runners in the New York Marathon, please visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Newyorkrunners
And for more information about the New York Marathon, please visit www.nycmarathon.org

Why stop at employee ownership?

by Ethos public relations

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of national trade body Co-operatives UK believes business leaders and decision makers should give employees more than just ‘some’ of a company to control.

“I am pleased to see proposals for Blackwell bookshops to become employee owned, and Vince Cable’s ideas about employees having an ownership stake in Royal Mail are to be welcomed,” said Ed.

“But why stop at giving employees just some of the company to control? A co-operative, wholly owned by its employees and with a proven business structure, has a distinct advantage in terms of democratic management style and workers having an equal stake in the business.

“During the election campaign we saw all the main parties committing themselves to a meaningful role for co-operatives. However, we don’t need any special funding or pleading to make it happen, just the willingness to see the co-operative alternative as a real business-driven solution to economic and social needs.”

Unique fund is music to the ears in Hexham

by Ethos public relations

A Hexham community music business which creates a space for people of all ages and abilities to create, play, learn, record and buy music has received a second loan payment from The Social Enterprise Loan Fund (TSELF) to continue its work.

Core Music, which develops people’s music knowledge and skills – including those with physical and learning disabilities - has received an additional £10,000 on top of £20,000 it received in December 2008.

The Community Interest Company will use the money to purchase new and improved stock which will help them to continue organising and running music lessons, workshops, events, demonstrations and master classes.

Director of Core Music, Mike Coleman, said: “TSELF previously provided us with a loan so that we could purchase start up stock for a new retail outlet. That loan was invaluable to us and this second one will be just as well received and used to help us help more people. The money will go towards new quality stock which will further increase the enjoyment of everyone who comes to Core Music.”

Rod Jones, regional director for TSELF, said: “We are delighted to be able to continue our relationship with Core Music CIC. We have seen how the first loan helped them grow and provide a great opportunity to the community in Hexham and beyond - including those who may have been otherwise excluded. We hope this second loan helps them just as much.”

TSELF provides loans to social enterprises and charities ranging from £15,000 to £250,000 and would encourage any social enterprises looking for loans to contact them.

TSELF has, to date, invested £8million in social enterprises across the UK, helping clients to generate job opportunities as well as training places.

For further information about CORE Music visit www.coremusic.co.uk or call 01434 601993.

To find out more about TSELF visit www.tself.org.uk or call 020 7680 1028.

Adrenaline junkie ready for skydive challenge

by Ethos public relations

Adrenaline junkie Nathan Malley will throw caution to the wind and jump out of an aeroplane at 10,000ft in Peterlee this Saturday (11 September) to raise money for national disability charity Action For Kids.

Gateshead resident Nathan, who is originally from Liverpool, hopes to raise £500 for Action For Kids - which helps to support children and young people with physical and learning disabilities and their parents and carers. The account manager at Remploy decided to do the skydive as he has a brother who was born with spina bifida and appreciates the benefits charities such as Action For Kids can offer.

Speaking in the build up to the skydive, which is taking place at Peterlee Parachute Centre, 27 year old Nathan said: “After seeing an advert about charity skydiving and reading some of the case studies showing how the charity helps people, my mind was made up!

“My job involves generating vacancies for people with health conditions and disabilities and this makes me determined to raise as much money as possible and to raise awareness around the services that both Action For Kids and Remploy can provide.”

Sarah Greene, Events Fundraiser at Action For Kids, said: “It is great that Nathan is doing the skydive in aid of Action For Kids. The skydive is a fun and exhilarating experience and we wish him all the best. The money he will raise is invaluable to the work we do and this courageous act will make a number of kids very happy!”

To donate please go to www.justgiving.com/Mallo-Skydive.

For more information about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website at www.actionforkids.org.

Green light for new shops and homes

by Ethos public relations

A joint planning application by Peak Valley Housing Association and Rowlinson Construction for new shops and apartments on Honiton Road, Hattersley, has just been approved by Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council.

The £4.7 million project has been supported by £2.5 million funding from the Homes & Communities Agency and will see the development of 33 two bedroom apartments built on the site of the current retail units. New retail units will be developed adjacent to the new properties.

Rowlinson Construction has purchased the existing retail units and will be building the new apartments which will be rented by Peak Valley to the over 55’s market.

The existing Honiton Road shops are in a poor state of repair and considered blight on the area and Phil Corris Managing Director of Peak Valley Housing Association said: “This is great news for people living near the shops who will benefit from new facilities and an improved environment.

“We will also be able to provide much need new housing in the area.”

John McCall architects will be designing the apartments which will comprise of a kitchen/dining room, a living room, a double bedroom and bathroom and an additional single bedroom or study. Car parking will also be provided.

Work on the new retail units will commence shortly with businesses opening in spring 2011. Once the new retail units are built, the old ones can be demolished and work should start on the new residential element of the scheme by March 2011.

New students for Housing e-Academy

by Ethos public relations

Housing e-Academy, part of Ilkley based Virtual College has recently won new contracts across the UK.

The Housing e-Academy drives forward adoption of e-learning within the social housing sector and its increasing membership is made up of individuals and organisations that work within, or provide support, for the sector.

In the last month Nottingham City Homes, First Choice Homes Oldham, North East based Home Group and Severn Vale Housing Society have joined the 360,000 customers already working with Housing e-Academy in contracts worth around £25,000 pa.

Head of Housing e-Academy Chloe Weatherhead said: “As many sectors face cuts to their non core business budgets, many companies are recogising the value of e-learning compared to expensive traditional face to face training techniques.

“Geographical restrictions are removed and learners can access their training at a pace, place and time to suit them which is why e-learning is proving to be so popular.”

The number of learners using Housing e-Academy products increased from 7,543 in July to 12,087 in August.

Virtual College has harnessed specific markets by evolving a portfolio of e-Academies in the housing, healthcare, safeguarding children, food and drink, and trades sectors –together offering over 100 online courses.

For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk

Housing e-Academy is First Choice

by Ethos public relations

First Choice Homes Oldham has recently signed up to a training package worth around £15,000 pa with e-learning provider Housing e-Academy.

Chloe Weatherhead, Head of Housing e-Academy said: “We are delighted to welcome First Choice Homes Oldham to our growing portfolio of clients. The number of registered Virtual College e-learners is growing at an average rate of around 3,000 per month.”

“As well as providing a range of ‘off the shelf’ learning solutions specifically created for the social housing sector, we can also work with clients to develop bespoke solutions for their learning needs.

The First Choice Homes Oldham contract will provide access to a specific Learning Management System with six e-learning modules which all staff can access.

The company has also purchased Tenant Plus, a package which provides three e-learning modules for tenants to access.

Anne McCulloch Learning and Development Manager for First Choice Homes Oldham said: “We want to offer a range of learning interventions throughout the organisation and give employees the option to access learning away from the workplace.

“We also want to support and empower our customers in regard to both the worklessness agenda and their personal development.

“As well as offering e-learning to both employees and customers, membership of the Housing e-Academy will allow us to be involved in the development of new sector specific modules to meet identified training needs.”

The Housing e-Academy is part of the Virtual College which has seen its membership increase in 2010 as both indvidiuals and organisations recognise the benefits of e-learning.

For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk.

New Chair for new committee

by Ethos public relations

Contour Homes has confirmed 76 year old Len Lloyd MBE.JP as Chair of the new Customer Services Committee – a Committee formed as part of the recently formed Customer Services Directorate established by the company.

Len, who lives in Stretford, has been a tenant activist since 1992 when he was asked to establish a residents association in a sheltered scheme where his wife was manager. He has served in the Regular and Territorial Army for 42 years and then has also served as a magistrate for over twenty years. Len has been heavily involved with Contour Homes including serving as Chair of the Tenants Forum to sitting as a member of the Collingwood then Contour Homes Board.

The new Directorate is a result of a major internal re-structure at Contour Homes, one of the North West’s biggest social housing organisations, and Len admits that initially he was somewhat sceptical about the plan.

“When the changes were first proposed I had some reservations,” he said. “However, my opinion was changed by the commitment, dedication and enthusiasm of the Focus Group tasked with setting up the new Committee.

“Now I believe this new approach will increase customer satisfaction. It is a radical move that will shake the company out of its traditional method of operation.”

The new Customer Service Directorate is headed by Judith Winterbourne. She said: “Len’s commitment and enthusiasm will challenge the team to ensure we deliver the best service to our customers and place customer satisfaction at the heart of everything we do.”

Contour has invested considerable effort in scrutinising how it engages with tenants and is re-organising its business to provide a better service. The Directorate has seen the establishment of Centres of Excellence as well as new Regional Teams.

The Customer Services Committee is comprised of twelve members and is a sub committee of the main Board. It will meet eight times a year and Len says it will ensure that tenant voice is central to everything it does.

“We will be appointing Service Champions on the Committee who will focus on specific areas so that the Champion becomes very knowledgeable in his or her field,” he adds. “Our first priorities will be around tenant involvement and repairs, and the main aim of the committee will be to ensure that the Customer Services Directorate delivers.

“Though, under the new government, the future of tenant involvement and the TSA remain uncertain, tenant activists have worked too hard and come too far to give up their voice and influence. Whatever the future of the regulator – tenants will continue to play a significant role in the sector.

“Contour Homes has adopted what I believe is a unique approach to its business which should result in significant positive changes for its thousands of customers. “I believe that more housing associations will adopt this new approach and I am pleased that Contour has been one of the first to move out of its comfort zone.”

Contour Homes launch new Directorate

by Ethos public relations

Contour Homes, one of the biggest social landlords in the North West, has launched a new Customer Services Directorate. The Customer Services Directorate, headed up by Judith Winterbourne, has been introduced to allow the company to focus on delivering outstanding frontline services.

“The Customer Services Directorate comes after a two year detailed review of the way we deliver our services now and by looking at what we want to achieve in the future,” said Judith. “This new way of doing business will meet our core goals of providing excellent and efficient services and doing more for more people.”

The new Directorate will be comprised of several Centres of Excellence including Independent Living, Revenue Services, Housing Options, Community Safety and Equality, Diversity and Resident Engagement - and all will be staffed by experts.

In addition the company will be operating new regional offices to serve the thousands of Contour Homes' residents who live across 27 local authority areas.

A newly formed Customer Services Committee will monitor and review the Directorate and recently elected Chair Len Lloyd is excited about this new way of doing business. “This new approach will increase customer satisfaction. It is a radical move that will shake the company out of its traditional method of operation,” he said.

The new Centres of Excellence, new regional office teams and revised staff structure ‘opened for business’ on September 1st and are supported by a new Customer Contact and Support Team.

“I do want our customers and partners to see a difference in the way we operate,” adds Judith Winterbourne. “I want them to see an improved organisation at all levels.

“I believe this new way of operating is a genuine departure from the traditional housing association business model and I am confident that it is one that others will eventually adopt.”

Teens back from team building in Lake District

by Ethos public relations

Social landlord Hyndburn Homes recently organised an outward bound course in Windermere for 10 teenage girls from the local area, to develop team building skills.

Wayne Smith from the Neighbourhood team said: “The trip to Tower Wood Outdoor Recreation Centre in Windermere was a great success, the girls had a brilliant time and really got stuck in to a range of action packed activities.”

The three day excursion included team building skills like building and sailing on a life raft as well as making the most of the great outdoors with activities such as pony trekking, abseiling, climbing and cave walks.

The ten girls aged between 13 and 15 are from across the Hyndburn area and were nominated to attend by a variety of agencies including their schools. The trip was funded by Hyndburn Homes and YNOT Hyndburn.

E-Learning programme shortlisted as regional finalist

by Ethos public relations

The Housing e-Academy and Accent Group's Accent Regeneration and Community Partnerships (ARCP) Division, has been shortlisted as a regional finalist in the National Training Awards for their ‘Tenant Plus’ initiative, an e-learning programme designed specifically to encourage engagement from social housing tenants.

The awards are the premier accolade for training and development in the UK and are run by UK Skills on behalf of the department for Business, Innovation and Skills. The awards identify and celebrate organisation and individuals that have achieved really outstanding business and personal success through investment in training.

Tenant Plus is a bespoke training package designed to deliver basic level awareness tenant training using bite-size modules and self registration, which allowed tenants to study remotely and at their convenience.

Chloe Weatherhead, Head of Housing e-Academy at Virtual College said: “We are all really thrilled to have reached the regional finals of these prestigious awards. We are keeping everything crossed that we go that bit further to win.”

Another division of the Virtual College Trades e-Academy has also been nominated as a regional finalist.

The overall winners will be announced on the 28th September. For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk.

Grass is greener for Horticultural Acumen thanks to unique funding

by Ethos public relations

Horticultural Acumen, a social enterprise plant nursery in County Durham, is going from strength to strength, reaching sales of over £200,000 and helping to get more people back into work thanks to financial support from a unique loan fund.

A recently awarded loan of £80,000 from The Social Enterprise Loan Fund (TSELF) has enabled Horticultural Acumen in Peterlee, part of the Acumen Community Enterprise Development Trust, to employ 11 more staff through the Future Jobs Fund.

Kate Welch, Chief Executive of Acumen, said: "The loan from TSELF has been invaluable, and has enabled us to operate a seasonal business and grow our customer base to over 50 customers including 36 garden centres, two wholesale markets and a number of local parish and town councils for their 'Britain in Bloom' entries.

"Without the loan, we could never have taken the risk to start this business, as we only make large sales for four months of the year so need cash to invest in the purchase of compost, seeds, small plants and packaging as well as cover the costs of wages and overheads during the winter as we grow for our peak of spring sales."

The loan has also made it possible for the organisation to provide training and employment opportunities to over 30 people, previously disadvantaged in the labour market because of long term unemployment, homelessness or an offending background.

Set up in September 2009, Horticultural Acumen is a ten acre nursery with over 2.5 acres of heated glasshouses growing vegetable packs and bedding plants for the wholesale market.

Rod Jones, regional director for TSELF, said: "Horticultural Acumen is unique in the services it offers to the community and really does help many disadvantaged young people in the area, so we are thrilled to be able to assist with funding."

"TSELF provides loans to social enterprises and charities ranging from £15,000 to £250,000. We are here to help, so we would encourage any social enterprises looking for loans, to contact us."

TSELF has, to date, invested £8million in social enterprises across the UK, helping clients to generate job opportunities as well as training places.

For further information about Acumen Community Enterprise Development Trust visit www.acumentrust.org.uk or call 0191 587 8000.

To find out more about TSELF visit www.tself.org.uk or call 020 7680 1028.

New life for ‘Honiton shops’

by Ethos public relations

A joint planning application by Peak Valley Housing Association and Rowlinson Construction for new shops and apartments on Honiton Road, Hattersley, has been submitted to Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council.

Phil Corris Managing Director of Peak Valley Housing Association said: “The ‘Honiton shops’ are currently in a poor state of repair and with only two retail units out of the current seven open for business – are something of a blight on the area.”

Rowlinson Construction has purchased the existing retail units and will be building the new apartments which will be rented by Peak Valley to the over 55’s market.

Phil Corris adds: “The proposal has the support of the local community especially those people living close to the area, who recognise that this joint scheme will be a massive improvement to the area – as well as providing good local facilities.

“In addition, the new apartments will provide much needed accommodation for the over 55’s market which has been identified as being in high demand in this area.”

If the planning application is successful the joint partners anticipate starting work on the new retail units in the autumn with businesses opening in spring 2011. Once the new retail units are built, the old ones can be demolished and work should start on the new residential element of the scheme by March 2011.

Open day for Hattersley tenants

by Ethos public relations

Peak Valley Housing Association is inviting residents living in Hattersley to attend an open day at the Hattersley Community Centre where they can look at proposals for the next phase of the improvement work on the estate.

Phil Corris, Managing Director for Peak Valley said: “We have been cracking on with major improvement works to the inside of our housing stock in the area and next year we will be turning our attention to the external work. This event provides an opportunity for the local community to see what is proposed.”

The external works will include such things as new fencing, replacement of boundary walls and in-curtilage parking. The open day event will provide images and artists impressions of the work and tenants will also be able to see samples of the materials that may be used.

“The external work programme will be carried out on all of our 1500 housing stock subject to survey,” said Phil Corris. “It is a major multi million pound improvement scheme which will benefit not just Peak Valley tenants but everyone living in the area.

“As usual Hattersley residents will be provided with the chance to have their say on our proposals and their feedback will be taken into account when it’s time for the work to start.”

The event will take place on 24th August between 10.30am – 6.30pm at the Hattersley Community Centre.

Hyndburn Homes expands business activity

by Ethos public relations

Hyndburn Homes Repairs, the largest direct works organisation in the area, and a subsidiary of the Contour Housing Group, has developed a growth strategy to increase its turnover by 50% over the next five years.

David Cross Operations Manager for Hyndburn Homes Repairs said this is great news for the company, its employees and the local economy.

“The Contour Housing Group is one of the region’s biggest housing and regeneration organisations,” explains David. “The Group has contracted us to work across areas of its business, which over the next five years should increase our turnover from £4 million to £6 million.”

This year Hyndburn Homes Repairs has negotiated three additional contracts which include maintenance of commercial boilers, cyclical painting and fire risk assessment works.

Contour Housing Group works across 27 local authority areas in the North West and has over 20,000 social housing properties under its ownership and management.

Currently Hyndburn Homes Repairs provides repairs and maintenance services exclusively to Hyndburn Homes. It has around 60 skilled workers including joiners, electricians, plasterers, plumbers and gas engineers along with grounds maintenance operatives and painting teams, all supported by dedicated customer service and supervisory staff.

“This news enhances job security for our existing staff and also means we will be able to take on new staff and develop our apprenticeship scheme,” adds David. “In these harsh economic times the announcement provides some good news for the local economy.”

“This is also good news for Hyndburn Homes. Any surplus generated from the new contracts will be shared with it - and so will ultimately be ploughed back into providing services to local residents.”

Contour shortlisted for two CIH UK Housing Awards

by Ethos public relations

Contour Housing Group one of the North West’s leading housing and regeneration organisations has been shortlisted for two CIH UK Housing Awards - Regenerating communities and Supporting social and economic inclusion.

“It’s lovely to be shortlisted for one award – but two is really great news and testament to the creative work of our staff and our partners,” said Vicky Carroll, Group Assistant Director.

The Group has been nominated for its community regeneration work on the New Broughton development in Salford as well as range of other activities which promote social inclusion and tackle worklessness.

Finalists will be announced in November.

Local housing association looking for apprentices

by Ethos public relations

Contour Housing Group, one of the North West’s biggest housing and regeneration companies, is offering five young people the chance to join its Apprentice Scheme based at the company’s head office at Salford Quays.

Gaynor Leary, Organisational Development Officer at Contour Housing Group said: “Unemployment, particularly for young people is becoming a major problem.
Apprenticeships offer a genuine route to employment and provide real job experience.”

The apprenticeship in Business Administration is a 12 month programme where candidates will be working toward a Level 2 qualification. Applicants should be aged 16-19 years old with GCSE’s English and Maths at Grade C.

18 year old Kate Garner from Little Hulton is two thirds of her way through the scheme. “I didn’t have a clue what I wanted to do when I left school,” she said. “I would never have considered housing as a career option but the Contour Apprentice scheme seemed like a good opportunity to gain some valuable business skills.

“To date I have worked across a range of departments including IT, HR, Sheltered and Supported Housing and Leasehold. I’ve got a really good variety of skills now and I have decided that I want to focus my career in the Leasehold department which I really enjoy.

“I would recommend anyone looking to get real life work experience and further qualifications to apply for the Apprentice scheme. I’ve really enjoyed it and I hope to be working full time with Contour when I finish the Apprenticeship. Whatever happens, I think I have a lot to offer any potential employer in the future.”

Application packs and further information is available by contacting 0345 602 1120 or by emailing gaynor.leary@contourhousing.co.uk. Closing date for candidates to apply for this scheme is 31st August.

E-learning thrives in social housing sector

by Ethos public relations

An e-learning provider with a specialist academy in the social housing sector is celebrating 15 years of success with news that turnover has hit £3.5m a year as the total number of registered e-learners across Virtual College exceeds 350,000 for the first time.

Virtual College has harnessed specific markets by evolving a portfolio of e-Academies in the housing, healthcare, safeguarding children, food and drink, and trades sectors – and together offer over 100 online courses.

The Housing e-Academy drives forward adoption of e-learning within the social housing sector. Its increasing membership is made up of individuals and organisations that work within, or provide support, for the UK housing sector. It currently provides e-learning courses to over 9,000 individuals working within, alongside or affected by 27 social housing providers nationwide.

Housing e-Academy Chloe Weatherhead said: “The number of registered Virtual College e-learners is growing at an average rate of around 3,000 per month so that our customer base now stands at 360,000. This increase reflects Virtual College’s ability to meet the changing demands of our various clients, to respond quickly to economic pressure and to continue to develop new bespoke products for the industry. ”

Virtual College now has a 63-strong workforce and ten freelance consultants and continues to thrive, as individuals, businesses and organisations across both the public and private sectors seek to access innovative, flexible and cost-effective training solutions.

The UK e-learning market 2009 report forecasts growth rates of between 6.7 per cent and 8 per cent in 2010 alone for the e-learning industry as more and more business recognise the benefits of using e-learning for their staff and customers.

“E-learning is an increasingly popular and proven alternate route to traditional face-to-face training, adds Chloe. “Geographical restrictions are removed and learners can access their training at a pace, place and time to suit them which is why e-learning is providing to be so popular in the social housing sector.”

For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk.

Come along to Preston community film premiere

by Ethos public relations

The Contour Housing Group and People’s Voice Media partnership is inviting people to attend an Open Day in Preston next Wednesday 18th August to see the Callon, Fishwick and Avenham community researchers film premiere.

Contour Housing Group has been working with community media specialists, People’s Voice Media, to create an informal learning network for the local people using social media to develop dialogue and community cohesion enabling communities to have a voice.

Ross Hemmings, Regeneration Investment Officer for Contour, said: “There will be a feature presentation at 4pm showcasing the work the community researchers have carried out over the last six months, engaging with the community using interview, video and social media techniques.

“The event is free to attend and all ages are welcome. Refreshments and food will be provided and there will be workshops and games to enjoy. Please come along and see for yourselves the great work the community researchers have done in your community.”

The Open Day is on Wednesday 18th August at St Joseph’s Sports & Arts Centre on Rigby Street, Preston PR1 5XL from 5.30pm to 8pm, with a feature presentation at 4pm. If anyone would like any more information go to www.cavemedia.org.uk or contact Ross on 0161 875 8069 or email ross.hemmings@contourhousing.co.uk.

ALMO’S to look beyond the front door

by Ethos public relations

The new Chair of ALMO Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) says the role of ALMO’s going forward lies beyond the front door.

48 year old Noel Chambers who was recently elected as Chair said: “The feedback I receive from tenants is we must now invest in neighbourhoods in the same way we have invested in homes. It’s time to go beyond the front door. The challenge is how to do that in times of public sector austerity”

Noel who has worked in the social housing sector for over twenty years is an Assistant Director at Cheshire West & Chester Council. He says taking over as Chair at this particular time is providing numerous challenges and opportunities.

“The government is making new announcements on a daily basis,” he adds “and the new landscape of the sector is still being formed but we need to ensure that ALMO’s seize any relevant opportunities.

“For example, we need to act smarter in order to face the challenges that will come in the wake of public sector cuts. If councils are forced to cut services there could be a chance for ALMO’s to take up the slack. I believe our model is well placed to do this. It has an excellent track record and there is much goodwill.”

Noel says he is disappointed that the government has no further plans to continue with the Decent Homes Standard and believes that council house tenants in particular will feel aggrieved and cheated that they have missed out.

He is also keen that reform of the HRA is forthcoming.

“We are all holding our breath on this,” said Noel. “It really is a big deal for the sector and will determine the future of social housing for some years to come. Government needs to layout its plans sooner rather than later.

“I hope that despite the abolition of the TSA the core principle of giving tenants a real voice in the management of their housing and associated services must remain. At RBH we put tenants at the heart of everything we do and I am very proud to be leading a committed Board, a hardworking staff and thousands of tenants who genuinely care about where they live.”

Buy skincare products from the doctor

by Ethos public relations

According to skin expert Dr Kiran Patel, the best kindest thing you can ever do for your skin is to protect it from the sun.

“The evidence against the sun continues to amass,” he said. “The more knowledge we have the more we understand just how damaging sunlight can be to the skin.

“It’s easy to see this for yourself. Look at how soft, smooth and wrinkle free the skin on your bottom is. That’s because - unless you are a nudist - your bum tends to be covered up for most of your life!”

Kiran says that in order to maintain and improve skin health, advanced skincare products which are not available on the high street – can have the best results.

“Look for brands which use pure, pharmaceutical grade ingredients with formulations based on optimal concentrations of active ingredients,” he said. “These products tend to be available by private prescription or in private clinics.

“For example, here at Laserase we use the Heliocare SPF 50 from Aestheticare which has an SPF of 50. It has a strong reputation with the medical community through dermatologists, plastic surgeons and laser clinics.”

Whilst these specialist products are not budget brands they are similarly priced to the higher brand products available on the high street - prices start from £21 for 50ml.

“The most important advice for anyone looking to protect their skin or prevent further damage is to stay out of the sun,” adds Kiran. “If you do go into the sun use the highest factor cream available and ensure you use cosmetics that have sun protection built it.

“The sunshine may make you feel good by triggering the production of serotonin – but in reality it’s causing your skin a great deal of damage.”

Heliocare products are available to purchase from Laserase North West. Go to www.laserasenorthwest.com for more information or call 01204 570900 or email admin@laserase-bolton.co.uk.

Bring out the animal in you

by Ethos public relations

Animal prints never go out of style and Frith Rugs has just introduced new animal print rugs to its Laura Jade collection.

“In the past few years animal prints have become increasingly popular,” said Director Andrew Firth. “Our original tiger print rug is a best seller and so we have introduced three new designs for customers to choose from.”

Andrew said that animal print rugs work best in modern homes where contemporary styles are used as the design theme. He also advises using just one print on one item - as too much can spoil the overall design. A rug is the ideal soft furnishing to show off the animal print as it will be the centerpiece of the room and everything else can complement it.

The new rugs are 100% wool and handmade in India exclusively for Frith Rugs. They are available in a range of sizes with a 1.83 m x 1.22 m (6’ x 4’) rug costing £239.00.

For more information, visit www.frithrugs.co.uk or telephone 0845 4 900 600.

Soak up the fun in Limeside this summer!

by Ethos public relations

Residents living on the Avenues & Hollins estate in Oldham are enjoying an active summer thanks to Contour Homes.

Parents for Play are running drop in summer play sessions for children aged between 3 and 11 at The Community Hall on First Avenue. The sessions cost £1 per child run 1-3pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday until Wednesday 25th August.

The group is running monthly drop in play sessions for children with additional needs on the last Saturday of every month from1-3pm.

Sarah Furbey from Contour Homes adds, “The aim of the group is to provide and maintain a multi-sensory play centre for children with disabilities or special needs in Hollinwood More information can be found on the website – www.parentsforplay.org.uk.”

For children who love football, football coaching sessions run by Football Coaching for the Communities (FCFC) and funded by Contour homes are running for children aged 6-12.

Sarah Furbey from Contour homes said: “If you want to attend - a registration forms must be completed and these are available from the Contour Homes office on First Avenue or from any of the FCFC sessions.

“We are hoping to form a team at the end of the sessions and are looking for local residents who would be interested in undertaking a level one football coaching course.”

If you want any further information about any of these activities or a registration form pop into Contour Homes office on First Avenue or contact Sarah Furbey on 0161 682 4019 or email sarah.furbey@contourhousing.co.uk.

Hyndburn girls are outward bound

by Ethos public relations

Social landlord Hyndburn Homes has taken 10 teens from the local area on an outward-bound course in order to develop team building skills, build confidence and encourage positive behaviour.

Wayne Smith from the Neighbourhood Management team explains: “Young people often get a bad press but we have found that with the right encouragement we can channel their energies into more positive things.”

The trip to Tower Wood Outdoor Recreation Centre in Windermere is the second trip organised by Hyndburn Homes after the first trip last year with teenage boys proved highly successful.

The ten girls aged between 13 and 15 are from across the Hyndburn area and have been nominated to attend by a variety of agencies including their schools. The trip has been funded by Hyndburn Homes and YNOT Hyndburn.

The three day excursion will include team building skills like building and sailing on a life raft as well as making the most of the great outdoors with activities such as hiking and pony trekking.

“For some of the young people this will be the first time they have enjoyed any sort of short break and their first time away from home,” said Wayne. “Hyndburn Homes and its partners have provided an opportunity for local young people to develop all kinds of social skills that they may not necessarily have a chance to develop otherwise - and as a result rewarding and developing positive behaviour that will benefit the whole community.”

Up to 50% off ALL contemporary rugs during September

by Ethos public relations

With Christmas just a few months away, the Frith Rugs up to 50% off promotion means you can spruce up your home in time for the festive season.

"The addition of a new rug is one of the quickest and easiest ways to give any room in your house a brand new look," said Andrew Frith. "If you are looking for a rug to wow visitors browse our huge stock of modern rugs and carpets – the largest selection in the UK."

For more information, visit www.frithrugs.co.uk or telephone 0845 4 900 600.

Contour team at their Peak

by Ethos public relations

Colleagues from Salford based Contour Housing Group recently took part in the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge.

The team walked around 25 miles to raise money for charity.

“This was a great experience and there’s no doubt that the team and I felt a wonderful sense of achievement,” said Louise Marsden one of the organisers.

The housing association team raised over £800 for charities Help for Heroes and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Yorkshire based Virtual College continues to thrive

by Ethos public relations

Yorkshire based online training pioneer Virtual College is celebrating 15 years in business with news that turnover has hit £3.5m a year as the total number of registered e-learners across the Virtual College exceeds 350,000 for the first time.

Operations director Lesley Ord said: “The number of registered e-learners is growing at an average rate of around 3,000 per month so that our customer base now stands at 360,000. This increase reflects Virtual College’s ability to meet the changing demands of our various clients, to respond quickly to economic pressure and to continue to develop new products for the e-learning industry. ”

The Virtual College was established in IIkley by Chairman Bob Gomersall, who when he was Head of Physics at Bradford Grammar School, saw how he could dramatically improve training through the use of technology. “We set up Virtual College because we couldn’t find training providers who would adopt the use of new technology,” he said. “It was a case of doing it yourself because nobody else would!”

As more businesses focus on the benefits of personal development, with managers tracking the progress of individual employees, the Virtual College has developed a branded learning system known as E?nable which is used by large and small organisations seeking to provide their staff with e-learning material for induction, mandatory and refresher training. It is also a valuable resource for training and human resources staff to track learner records, manage training needs analysis, appraisals and e-portfolios.

In addition, Virtual College has harnessed specific markets by evolving a portfolio of e-Academies in the housing, healthcare, safeguarding children, food and drink, and trades sectors – and together offer over 100 online courses.

Virtual College now has a 63-strong workforce and ten freelance consultants. Chief Executive Rod Knox said: “Despite the current economic climate, we continue to thrive, as individuals, businesses and organisations across both the public and private sectors seek to access innovative, flexible and cost-effective training solutions.

“E-learning is an increasingly popular and proven route to traditional face-to-face training. Geographical restrictions are removed and learners can access their training at a pace, place and time to suit them.

“We are constantly looking to enhance our e-learning provision across all sectors through the development of both new academies and training courses and we are well equipped to respond to future challenges and opportunities.”

Help others pledge to save the planet

by Ethos public relations

What is your favourite way to help save the planet? Got an idea that could help others do their bit to tackle climate change? Then Greener Together – the co-operative way wants to capture your ideas to help everyone live a greener lifestyle.

Whether your idea is to snuggle under a blanket rather than turning up the heating or making your own shopping bags out of old jeans, then upload it to the pledge generator at www.greenertogether.coop/pledge-generator.

"With many co-operative members telling us they wanted more of a challenge to support them to live greener and the means to decide what that challenge would be, we thought an online pledge generator was the perfect solution," said Michelle Lockwood, manager of Greener Together, an initiative run by Co-operatives UK.

We have received some fantastic ideas, including hanging soft curtains to trim five per cent off your heating bill, inviting friends over on a regular basis for a shared feast to swap food and reduce waste and thoroughly towel drying your hair to cut down on time spent using a hairdryer!

"It is great to see so many co-operative members logging on and generating some excellent pledges to help others live in a greener way."

Hundreds of individuals across the country are supporting Greener Together – the co-operative way, which encourages and supports them to overcome the barriers of lifestyle change and live in a more sustainable way.

The project helps co-operatives make a significant impact on climate change, and reduce their environmental impact in the three key areas of energy, waste and personal transport.

To find out more about Greener Together, visit the website at www.greenertogether.coop

Well trained staff could be vital in securing contracts

by Ethos public relations

With the end of the Decent Homes Standard, specific funding cuts which will choke social sector housing growth and the hike in VAT - builders working in the social housing sector are looking at ways to develop their competitive advantage.

Chloe Weatherhead, Manager of the Housing e-Academy which has hundreds of social housing sector clients said housing associations are looking to work a lot smarter with Value for Money even more of a driving force.

“Contractors looking to secure or renew work in the sector will have to examine every element of their offering to ensure they improve their competitive edge and make working with them more compelling than working with anyone else. Price will of course remain key - but contractors should also be looking at added value.”

Customer care, equality and diversity, confidentiality and conflict resolution are all important issues for people working in the homes of social residents. Having operatives trained in issues like these could well be the competitive advantage that secures a contract.

“E-learning is ideal for people working in the building trade,” said Chloe. “It allows the learner to dip in and out so they can work around other commitments. It also allows them to work in a way that suits their learning style and pace – without feeling any pressure from their peers.

“From a business perspective it can also be the most cost effective way of training staff and as the purse strings get pulled ever tighter – it is becoming the training method of choice for many organisations.”

The abilities of front line staff say a lot about a business. Get this wrong and your reputation could be ruined very quickly.

“Everyone has heard one nightmare story about an operative who caused a major headache or PR disaster for both the contractor and its client,” said Chloe. “Having appropriately trained staff can make all the difference to your reputation and reputation is one of the factors that will help to secure a contract.

“E-learning makes staff training very affordable and having a well trained staff could be your competitive advantage.”

For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk

Calling all ladies – for this year’s adidas Women’s 5k Challenge!

by Ethos public relations

Now the summer is here, what better way to enjoy it than by taking part in the adidas Women’s 5K fun run through Hyde Park in London, to help raise money for national disability charity Action For Kids?

The adidas Women’s 5K Challenge is the biggest women-only fun run in the country and takes place on Sunday 5 September.

Women of all ages and fitness levels can take part and either stroll, jog or run through Hyde Park, and Action For Kids is calling on all local ladies to sign up to the challenge.

Sarah Greene, Fundraising Events Manager at Action for Kids, said: "This is a fantastic event which the whole family can enjoy, and we are calling on all the ladies out there to sign up and join the Action For Kids team and help make a difference to the lives of disabled young people.

"Entry is just £15 and £5 of that will come straight to Action For Kids. The deadline for entries is 6 August, so please get in touch as soon as possible on 020 847 8111 to secure your place."

Action For Kids helps to support children and young people with physical and learning disabilities and their parents and carers, and is keen to hear from anyone interested in taking part.

For more information about Action For Kids and its work, please visit the website at www.actionforkids.org

For more information about the adidas Women’s 5K Challenge, visit the website www.womenschallenge.co.uk

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