Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Winter proof your home

by Ethos public relations

There are still many more cold winter weeks ahead and this is the time when householders can experience problems. Assistant Director Steve Partner, part of the property regeneration team at Contour Homes, part of Symphony Housing Group, helps maintain thousands of properties and he shares of his top tips for winter proofing your home.

“Keeping warm is a top priority and the highest volume of call outs we receive at this time of year is around the heating system not working correctly,” he said.

“Frozen pipes can cause all kinds of problems, usually caused by the condensate pipe of your boiler - a waste pipe that carries condensation from the boiler to your drain outside. This can freeze which will cause your boiler to stop working.

“The best thing to do is avoid freezing pipes by keeping your heating on and running cold taps regularly.”

Steve said that all householders should know where their stop tap is located as it is imperative this is turned off in the event of any freezing, blockages or leaks. It is usually under the main sink.

If you are having problems with your boiler there are a few very obvious things you can do yourself before calling out an engineer. This includes checking the boiler and the isolation switch/plug are on – also making sure the thermostat is turned up.

“If we get severe weather as we did last year, it is often a good idea to have your own emergency kit at home,” said Steve. “This is particularly important if you find it difficult to get out or you live in a rural location.”

A home emergency kit could comprise torches and batteries, spare bulbs, warm clothing, a first aid kit, a telephone and useful numbers such as local police station, local doctors or a friend or neighbour. In addition, non perishable food could also be a good idea.

“Keeping warm is a top priority for everyone, especially the elderly,” adds Steve. “Keep curtains drawn and use draught excluders around doors and windows if you can feel cold air coming in.

“Finally, if you do have an elderly neighbour and we have a very cold spell, please spare a few minutes to check they are OK.”

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 4^th January 2012

New Year, New Job

by Ethos public relations

A Hollinwood Work Club, where job seekers can get advice and support on finding employment, has seen 50% of members successfully find a work placement in the eight weeks since the Club was launched.

The Club is run by Sarah Furbey, Contour Homes Community Development Worker, and she is helped by volunteers who have a wide range of skills and experience, including one who has worked in recruitment for over 14 years.

Support is also on offer from Hollinwood Children’s Centre, Regenda Housing and Limehurst Library.

Sarah said: “So far we have helped 18 people with writing a CV, interview techniques and guidance on how to search for jobs on the web. To date, nine of them are successfully in work placements as a direct result of the Club. We couldn’t have asked for better results.

The Club runs every Thursday between 1pm and 3pm at Limehurst Library with the next session on 5th January 2012.

“If you are looking for a job in 2012, then why not pop in to the Work Club?” said Sarah. “2012 could be your year.”

For more information on the Club or to book an appointment, call 0161 624 0351 or email limehurstlibrary@oldham.gov.uk.

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 3^rd January 2012

Residents guaranteed to stay warm this winter

by Ethos public relations

Social housing landlord Symphony Housing Group has worked with maintenance company PH Jones to go that extra mile and ensure residents across the North West stay warm this winter.

PH Jones, part of British Gas provides a wide range of services including heating repairs to social housing properties. Together with the Asset Management team at Symphony Housing Group, they have completed work on hundreds of properties to ensure central heating systems keep working effectively during winter.

Ian Blease, Contracts Manager at Symphony Housing Group said: “We have worked with PH Jones to install an electric trace heater anti-freezing element on over 300 domestic central heating systems.

“These properties have been identified as being at risk of problems by monitoring previous breakdown history.

“Those which have resulted in emergency call outs over the last three years have been fitted with the device.”

The decision to go ahead with the service was made following previous harsh winters to ensure that residents are not left vulnerable to extreme cold.

Ian added: “We hope that this preventative forward planning will mean Symphony Housing Group residents will not need any future call outs for loss of heating over winter and thereafter.”

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 23^rd December 2011

Successful project is rolled out to Oldham estate

by Ethos public relations

An award winning project worker is collaborating for a second time with social landlord Contour Homes, part of Symphony Housing Group, to bring a successful community employment project to the St Mary’s estate in Oldham.

Liz Douglas, founder of the Roots project has previously worked with Contour Homes in Bolton and has now been commissioned by the company to develop a scheme which will help local people gain access to work.

Liz is working with residents to establish their own social identity, reduce worklessness and improve social and emotional development skills. Her team team is looking at issues which may prevent people from getting a job and working with them to teach them new communication skills.

They are currently working with people between 18 and 35 who are unemployed and never been in work.

“I am putting in place some personal development programmes which I hope will encourage people into employment, education, training or voluntary work,” said Liz.

“I can already see people are becoming more motivated and are setting new goals for their future.”

Contour Homes is developing 93 homes on land owned by the Council which is bounded by St. Mary’s Way, Egerton Street and Horsedge Street close to Oldham town centre. New residents are due to move in during 2012 and Liz hopes that her project will also help local people get to know each other a bit better and foster a sense of community.

Shanine Meadowcroft from Contour Homes said: “We have established a community hub on site at St Mary’s which is being specifically used for community projects like this. Liz is renowned for getting results and we look forward to helping young people in the area exploit new opportunities.”

To read other news from Contour Homes click here

Posted at 21^st December 2011

St Mary’s residents light the way

by Ethos public relations

Residents in the St Mary’s area of Oldham got into the festive spirit this week by taking part in a lantern parade organised by social landlord Contour Homes, part of Symphony Housing Group.

The parade took place following a series of ‘lantern workshops’ held at Holy Cross Primary School and at the Contour Homes Community Hub on the new residential site which is being developed by Contour Homes on land owned by the council. Children had great fun creating their colourful lanterns to carry at the Parade.

Organiser of the event, Paul Brighouse, said: “With Christmas coming up we thought this would be a nice start to the festive season at St Mary’s - it’s also a great way of bringing the community together.

“This is one of a number of planned events at St Mary’s which will help to foster a sense of community and welcome new residents to the area.”

The parade was attended by 25 people including local residents, Holy Cross pupils and Contour Homes staff.

Click here to read more press releases for Contour Homes from Ethos public relations.

Posted at 20^th December 2011

Don’t be tempted by loan sharks this Christmas

by Ethos public relations

Christmas can be an expensive time for everyone and the Revenue Services team from Contour Homes is advising people not to be tempted to use loan sharks to fund their extra expenditure during the festive period.

Ann Walton from Contour Homes said: Many people who use loan sharks are already financially vulnerable – on low incomes or do not use a bank account. Last year a report by Policis estimated that 310,000 households had borrowed from loan sharks or illegal money lenders.

“We work very closely with the England Illegal Money Lending Team and 20% of victims they work with took out their original loan to pay for Christmas.”

Most illegal money lenders are friendly to their borrowers at first, but through exorbitant rates of interest - as high as 131,000% APR in some cases - and additional arbitrary amounts, they will trap their victims into a spiral of debt. They rarely offer paperwork, keeping their victims in the dark as to what they owe, and some will even take bank cards and PINs to withdraw directly from accounts.

When victims are unable to pay, many loan sharks will also resort to threats, violence and intimidation.

Tony Quigley Head of England’s Illegal Money Lending Team said: “As Christmas approaches we would like to make it especially clear that no matter how desperate you are these criminals should always be avoided. This is a despicable crime that will not be tolerated. “

As they are not licensed money lenders, loan sharks operate outside the law. If you have borrowed from an illegal money lender - you haven't committed a crime - they have!”

Contour Homes’ Financial Inclusion Team suggests people can help to reduce the cost of Christmas in numerous ways including:

* Having a budget and sticking to it

* Organising a ‘secret Santa’ -instead of buying everyone a gift

* Making or baking a gift instead of buying one

* Sharing the provision of food and drink at parties

* Give a ‘time’ voucher and offer your time to provide services such as shopping, gardening, ironing or cleaning – instead of a gift.

Ann said. “The best way to have a happy Christmas is to have one you can afford. If you think you need a loan for the festive period then our advice is to look at an alternative funding source such as a credit union.

"Using a loan shark will just extend your debt misery for the rest of the year.”

Credit Unions can be a credible alternative, especially for people on low incomes or who do not have access to a bank account and they provide loans at a safe and affordable rate.

To find your local credit union, go to www.abcul.coop To report a loan shark operating in your area to 0300 555 2222, email reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk or text loan (space) shark (space) + your message to 60003. Any information is given in the strictest confidence.

Click here to read more press releases for Contour Homes from Ethos public relations.

Posted at 6^th December 2011

Multi-faith day in Bolton proves a huge success

by Ethos public relations

Independent Living staff from social landlord Contour Homes recently took part in an event held at the Asian Elders Resource Centre in Bolton which brings together different faiths to celebrate the festivals of Eid, Diwali and Christmas.

The Asian Elders group, established in 1989, is a highly recognised charity in the North West, and provides valuable services such as activities, trips and simply somewhere to meet for older people in the Asian community of Bolton.

Staff from Contour Homes set up their own stall at the ‘Unity in the Community’ event which is held annually at the 3D centre in Bolton, and gave guests the chance to get creative in a Christmas cracker workshop, as well as learn about the services that Contour Homes offer.

Dawn Thornber from Contour Homes said: “This was a great opportunity for us to get involved with the local community and it’s good to see so many different faiths and cultures come together to celebrate the most important religious events of the year.”

“We really enjoyed the event and we were able to get our creative juices flowing on our craft stall- everyone really enjoyed creating their own Christmas crackers!”

Representatives from Greater Manchester Police attended the event, and priests representing each of the three faiths said blessings for all present. Local schools and choirs also performed, whilst henna painting, card design competitions and a raffle were also on offer.

Click here to read more press releases for Contour Homes from Ethos public relations.

Posted at 1^st December 2011

Salford’s first Live/Work units now available

by Ethos public relations

The first ever bespoke live/work units in Greater Manchester are now available to creative industries and small businesses.

Spark Studio has been part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and developed through a collaborative partnership with Salford City Council, University of Salford; Salford based Contour Homes, part of the Symphony Housing Group, and local developer Godliman-Watson Homes.

Dominic Martinez is marketing the scheme on behalf of the partners and said: “Spark Studio is an exciting new project close to Manchester city centre, providing a fabulous base for creative entrepreneurs to live and work and so establish the ideal work-life balance.

“Offering an office and home with a combined rent from under £600 a month, we believe this represents excellent value for money as well as providing an ideal base for start-ups looking for the right environment in which to base their new business.”

Spark Studio is situated in a landmark listed building in Broughton and offers contemporary one-bedroom apartments with a high specification, including a fitted kitchen and bathroom. The apartments will be available to rent through Contour Homes using a flexible three-year tenancy agreement.

The office space, situated on the ground floor of the building, provides a secure base for a variety of businesses and also offers a host of free business support for the new tenants from a range of organisations.

In addition, the building offers a communal space which will include a reception area, a kitchen and a free high-spec meeting room, on-site parking, gardens and 24 hour access.

“The live/work units are available from £599 a month and with just eight units developed we are expecting interest to be high,” said Dominic.

“This is a unique opportunity for start-ups or even established SME’s to take contemporary, purpose built, living and working space at an affordable price using flexible terms."

Get in touch now to arrange your viewing. w: www.thesparkstudio.co.uk; e: info@thesparkstudio.co.uk ; t: +44(0)161 872 808.

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 28^th November 2011

Charity sleep out for Social Housing staff

by Ethos public relations

Members of staff from Contour Homes, part of the Symphony Housing Group, recently slept out and faced the cold night air to raise money for two national charities.

The sponsored sleep out took place on the seventh floor of the Lowry Shopping Centre multi-storey car park in Salford, where the group of seven Contour Homes staff camped out in tents from 8pm until the following morning. The money raised by Contour is to go to the Salvation Army and Shelter, charities that work with the homeless.

Organiser Dawn Thornber said: “We wanted to do something different from the usual charity fundraiser, and considering we’re raising money for charities that help the homeless, we felt it would be appropriate to experience what it’s really like for people who live on the street.

“As our offices are based in the Lowry Mall, we thought the best and safest place to camp out would be in the car park, so we applied for permission and it was all systems go.”

The staff have raised over £300 so far, and hope to increase this amount from proceeds from a Christmas raffle which will take place in the lead up to Christmas.

“We are so grateful to everyone for donating, particularly when people are cutting back as much as possible and saving up for Christmas,” added Dawn.

“It was very cold but we had a lot of fun and it was for a good cause, which makes it all worthwhile.”

According to statistics from Shelter, over 1000 households in the North West are considered homeless, and last year over 440 streets* in England were counted as having a rough-sleeping problem.

*Statistics from www.communities.gov.uk.

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 25^th November 2011

Bolton Project worker wins Award

by Ethos public relations

Liz Douglas, founder of the Roots Project which works on Contour Homes’ Pungle Estate in Bolton, has won an outstanding achievement prize in the Life Changers Awards.

Independently judged, Life Changers Awards are designed to genuinely recognise excellence in community development. They acknowledge the contributions made by businesses, civic leaders, charities and service providers as well as those successful individuals who truly set the standard and Liz said she was genuinely staggered to be part of them.

“I was delighted to be nominated for the category and invited to attend the ceremony in London but I honestly did not believe I would win,” she said.

“My fellow nominees were from across the world and I was the only white British nominee. I couldn’t believe it when my name was read out and I feel really honoured.”

Liz has worked with Contour Homes staff to get to the ‘root’ of problems in the area which in the past had a variety of social problems. Contour Homes donates a community house to the project as well as offering financial and practical support to Liz. It also allowed her free rein to get on with her unique approach to engaging youth.

Shanine Meadowcroft from Contour Homes said: “Liz offered a refreshing approach to tackling anti-social behaviour that has really made a difference. She genuinely deserves this recognition.

“Her work has been so successful in Bolton that she is now working with us elsewhere to replicate that success.”

Liz says her approach is all about winning the trust of young people which is not something that can happen overnight. She was in fact nominated for this award by a young resident on The Pungle.

Liz is determined to carry on getting to the ‘root’ of social problems and is looking forward to new challenges.

She said: “Contour Homes has been a fantastic supporter of the project and a key partner. I am keen to roll out the Roots Project to other areas and there is really no reason why this can’t become a national initiative.”

Click here to read more press releases for Contour Homes from Ethos public relations

Posted at 22^nd November 2011

Young people in Oldham get creative

by Ethos public relations

A project which recently took place at St Mary’s in Oldham has seen a group of young people work together to create some impressive works of art for their area.

With the support of Contour Homes, Bramall Construction and Groundwork the youngsters wanted to capture the changes taking place on the St Mary’s estate and created a wide range of art boards that show the past, present and future of St Mary’s as they see it.

Contour Homes funded a professional artist to work alongside the group and Bramall Construction provided the materials to create the boards. The young people were also guided by staff at Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale who helped them develop ideas on what they could paint.

Shanine Meadowcroft, Community Investment Officer at Contour Homes, said: “This was a great opportunity for the community to get together and do something creative, we were really impressed with the group’s enthusiasm and the end result is really something to be proud of - it’s certainly going to brighten up the area!

“St Mary’s residents are looking forward to seeing them displayed around the estate over the next few months.”

The artwork will go on display around the St Mary’s area over the next few months and will be moved around to that as many people as possible have an opportunity to see them.

This is one of numerous community projects to be organised by Contour Homes and its partner who are now based at a Community Hub on site at St Mary’s.

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 21^st November 2011

Bolton Victim’s Champion win Best Practice Award

by Ethos public relations

Bolton’s Anti-social Behaviour Victims Champion has won Best Practice at the recent 2011 Social Landlords Crime & Nuisance Group (SLCNG) ‘Delivering Results’ Awards.

The project was set up in August 2010 as part of a new initiative designed to provide intensive support services to vulnerable victims of anti-social behaviour.

Vicky Mulvaney, employed by Contour Homes, is the appointed Victims Champion and she said: “It was a fantastic feeling to win this Award, particularly as we faced such stiff competition from across the UK.

“The Award is testament to the fabulous partnership approach we have in Bolton and proves that when service providers work together and offer a seamless approach to this particular problem, we can get results.”

Vicky and her small team of volunteers are based in a shared office with Greater Manchester Police and Bolton Council.

Bolton Council’s Executive Member for Cleaner, Greener, Safer, Councillor Elaine Sherrington, said: “Victims can be severely affected by antisocial behaviour so to have a dedicated project that brings services together that help the victim is an important part of how we tackle anti-social behaviour in the borough.

“This national recognition is testament to the dedication that Vicky, her team of volunteers, and all the agencies involved have put in process to improving people’s lives.”

One crucial element of the project’s success has been the introduction of an Anti Social Behaviour Risk Assessment Conference or ASBRAC, which has been Vicky’s main vehicle to bring in agencies and to establish an action plan, centred on the needs of the victim.

Chief Superintendent David Hull, Divisional Commander for Greater Manchester Police’s Bolton Division, said: “Antisocial behaviour can make people’s lives a misery and for some it can even make life unbearable. This excellent new partnership approach allows us to identify victims who are suffering the most and are at most risk of harm.

“By sharing information and joining together to support the victim and tackle those responsible, we can make a real difference.”

Neil Kenyon from Contour Homes said:

“There was no precedent for the service and so she had to design the entire process from start to finish.

“She then tirelessly promoted the role to ensure she became an integral part of anti-social behaviour management across all housing tenures and within all agencies working in the Bolton area. This recognition is very well deserved.”

The project worked with 82 victims in its first year and has helped to dramatically increase the confidence and service offered to victims of anti-social behaviour across the borough.

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 16^th November 2011

Hollinwood residents attend Halloween firework spectacular

by Ethos public relations

Over 1000 Hollinwood residents were treated to a dazzling fireworks display this week thanks to local organisations working together.

Hollinwood District Partnership, Contour Homes and Regenda Housing helped to fund the event, whilst local groups Oldham Roughyeds, the Youth Offending Service and Inclusion Service and St Margaret’s Church all played their part to ensure it was a success.

Sarah Furbey, Community Development Worker at Contour Homes, said: ‘I’m so glad that in these difficult financial times we were still able to go ahead with this event, and give local residents a chance to get together and have a great time.

“The firework display was safely organised, very impressive and was enjoyed by all.”

The event also included a Halloween Party at the Roughyeds Rugby Club, where traditional games of apple bobbing and a scariest pumpkin competition were held.

Ruth Eckerlsey from Regenda Housing said: “Regenda would like to thank Oldham Rugby for all the hard work and effort they have put into the event, and we hope to work together in the future looking forward to a long term relationship.”

The organisers are looking for local residents who would like to get involved in planning future events in Hollinwood, please contact Sarah Furbey on 07985 538229 if you would like to give your ideas.

Click here to read more press releases for Contour Homes from Ethos public relations.

Posted at 4^th November 2011

Affordable homes now available in Clitheroe

by Ethos public relations

Contour Homes and Ribble Valley Homes, both part of the Symphony Housing Group, are working together to deliver a £2.1 million affordable housing scheme in Clitheroe.

Nicky Harris Project Manager for Symphony Housing Group said: “Contour Homes has developed the new properties at Primrose View which will comprise of 13 rented properties and 12 shared ownership properties. Ribble Valley will become the managing agent and the company is now asking anyone interested in the shared ownership properties, which will become available in January, to register their interest now.”

The homes available via shared ownership include 2-bedroom mews homes, which have been valued at £150,000. Local people can buy a minimum initial equity share of 25% for £37,500. These properties comprise a hallway, kitchen, cloakroom and open plan lounge-diner on the ground floor with two bedrooms and a family bathroom on the first floor.

The 3-bedroom properties have a market value of £160,000 and families can get a foot on the property ladder with a £40,000 investment, which represents a 25% equity share.

Buyers can purchase up to a maximum share of 75% on the properties and further shares can be purchased later to increase ownership to 100%. A rent is payable on the portion of the property that you do not own.

Nicky Harris adds: “In order to qualify for these sought after properties we have established a purchase criteria. This includes purchasers being 18 years old and over and in full time employment with a household income under £60,000 per annum.

"First time buyers living or working in the Ribble Valley area will take precedence over non first time buyers as we want to encourage local people on to the property ladder.”

The properties are built to a high standard and include fully fitted kitchens with gas hob, electric oven and extractor canopy with either white or walnut effect units. The family bathrooms have a fitted three-piece suite and each home has a rear garden and one allocated parking space at the front.

In addition, the properties are fitted with solar panels on the roof, which will reduce energy bills and help make the properties more cost effective to run.

Situated in a good position on the outskirts of Clitheroe and enjoying good long distance views across open countryside, local estate agency Atherton’s is confident these new homes will prove very popular. Martin McShane, director at Atherton’s said:

“Shared ownership is the best option for those who can’t afford to buy a home straight away. If you would like more details about these homes call 01200 420100 or register your interest at www.plumlife.co.uk and complete the online application form.”

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 3^rd November 2011

Showers forecast at Royce Court

by Ethos public relations

Residents at Contour Homes’ Royce Court sheltered scheme in Knutsford were able to try out a new shower and bathroom furniture recently - when facilities were set up in the communal lounge!

Dan Thomson an assistant surveyor for the company said: “Royce Court provides 41 flats for people over the age of 55 and Contour Homes is investing £85,000 in a refurbishment of all the bathrooms.

“Rather than just provide a leaflet about the new equipment being installed, we decided to erect a bathroom and shower in the communal lounge. This allowed the Suppliers ProCare to answer questions - and of course residents couldn’t resist trying out the facilities and having quite a giggle!”

As well as new bathrooms, all of the flats will also benefit from new central heating systems and electrics as part of the refurbishment programme. 74 year old Vicky Barlow who has lived at Royce Court for four years, was keen to try out the new shower.

“We can’t wait to get our lovely new bathroom suite or shower,” she said. “It’s nice that Contour Homes is providing bespoke designs to suit our individual needs and this work will really complete our homes.”

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 2^nd November 2011

Community hub for OL1 residents

by Ethos public relations

Residents and community groups living in OL1, the St Mary’s ward, now have a meeting place thanks to social landlord Contour Homes.

The company has just launched a community hub at its St Mary’s development, which will open several hours a day to provide a base for community groups as well as local services providers such as the police and the council.

Shanine Meadowcroft from Contour Homes will have a base at the Community Hub.

She said: “We have done a considerable amount of consultation with residents living around the new St Mary’s scheme and residents said they wanted a base on their door step to provide facilities like this.”

Contour Homes, part of the Symphony Housing Group, is transforming the St Mary’s area and building 93 homes, some of which will be for general rent and some for purchase through a shared ownership scheme.

In addition to the new homes, the company has a comprehensive community development strategy in place provided by a 7-strong team.

Over the next few months the Community Hub will host community events, meetings with residents, training and employment advice. In addition, we will also hold a Christmas, Easter and Summer event. For more information about the Community Hub contact Shanine Meadowcroft, Community Investment officer on 0782 5065138.

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 28^th October 2011

Awards for North West residents

by Ethos public relations

Residents and staff have been rewarded for outstanding achievements at the first ever imPaCt (Inspiring and Motivating Peak Valley and Contour Homes tenants) Awards recently held by Peak Valley Housing Association and Contour Homes, both members of Symphony Housing Group.

The red carpet event was hosted at the Imperial War Museum North and attended by 130 people.

Phil Gandy Group Chief Executive at Symphony Housing Group said: “It is important that we acknowledge those people who inspire us. We know that enabling genuine involvement by our tenants is fundamental to ensuring great service and continuing improvements. This event is a massive thank you to our fabulous tenants and residents.”

The winners in each category are:

Community Safety Award, sponsored by Morrison and won by Elsie Dixon for her work in Hattersley.

Going Green Award sponsored by Arcus Consulting and won by George Davison for his clean up campaigns in Hattersley.

Going the Extra Mile Award won by Contour Homes Neighbourhood Officer in Handforth. Gwynn Lloyd.

Making a Difference Award sponsored by Mears and won by Lucy Gore for making her Salford community a nicer place to live.

Good Neighbour Award sponsored by Mears and won by Ruth Wilkins for being supportive and always happy to help her neighbours in Whitefield.

Outstanding Achievement Award presented to Hattersley tenant Mel Humphries for her contribution to the development of tenant services.

Outstanding Young Person Award sponsored by Bramall Construction and won by 14 year old Madison Furbey for her work in the community in Oldham.

The event organisers set a target to achieve 100 percent sponsorship for the event and succeeded. Belinda Hayes from Contour Homes said: “In these austere times we were overwhelmed by the generosity of our sponsors who made the event such a success.

“The sponsors, the venue, the entertainment and of course our fabulous residents, tenants and staff have secured the imPaCt awards a place in our annual calendar.”

To read other news from Contour Homes click here or for more about Peak Valley click here.

Posted at 26^th October 2011

New Work Club launches in Hollinwood

by Ethos public relations

A new Work Club, where job seekers can get advice and support on finding employment is being launched in Hollinwood, Oldham thanks to the collaboration of local organisations.

The Work Club will give people of Hollinwood the chance to meet others looking for work, build new contacts, share job hunting experiences and get advice on interview techniques, basic computer skills, updating a CV and even volunteering opportunities.

Sarah Furbey, Contour Homes Community Development Worker will be running the Club and be supported by other local organisations including Regenda Housing, Hollinwood Children’s Centre and volunteers and staff from the Library Service.

Sarah said: “Research shows that the best way to find another job is through friends, family or social networks, which is why we have set up a Work Club in this area.

“Sessions will also include guest speakers from local businesses, who will share their advice and news about any opportunities in the area.”

The first Work Club will be 20th October and then every Thursday at Limehurst Library between 1pm and 3pm. Make an appointment on 0161 624 0351 or email limehurstlibrary@oldham.gov.uk.

If you are local company who would like to add its support, please contact Sarah Furbey on 07985 538229.

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 20^th October 2011

Red carpet awards for residents

by Ethos public relations

Contour Homes and Peak Valley Housing Associations, both part of the Symphony Housing Group, will be hosting their first ever awards later this month, which recognise inspiring and motivating tenants.

The imPaCt Awards will be held at the Imperial War Museum North and organiser Belinda Hayes, Resident Engagement Officer for Contour Homes and Peak Valley said the ‘red carpet’ event would not have been possible without the support of key partners.

“Social housing repairs and maintenance company Jackson Lloyd, part of The Mears Group PLC has been the main sponsor of the awards,” she said. “We have also had generous support from Acrus Consulting, Bramall Construction and Morrisons (Manchester Working). Between them, they have sponsored the entire event, which will include a three-course dinner at the prestigious Imperial War Museum North."

A judging panel comprised of residents and staff including Judith Winterbourne, Contour Homes Group Customer Services Director decided who should be recognised in the areas of Community Safety, Going Green, Good Neighbour, Outstanding Achievement, Outstanding Young Person, Making a Difference (in the community) and Going the Extra Mile.

“We are now putting the final touches to the event which we hope will become a permanent fixture in our calendar,” said Belinda. “We are confident that our sponsors and our guests will enjoy a fabulous night out where we can pass on our thanks for the un-sung heroes that live in our communities.”

To read other news from Contour Homes click here or for more about Peak Valley click here.

Posted at 13^th October 2011

Rivers is blooming!

by Ethos public relations

The Mayor of Bury, Councillor Yvonne Creswell and Mr Alan Creswell the Mayor's Consort, 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 work to make the area so bright and beautiful.”

Residents were invited to enter five categories and the first prize winners were presented with certificates and cheques for £75, whilst Second and Third prize-winners were awarded £45 and £30 respectively.

And the winners are:

Best Tenants’ Individual Garden

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

Best  Communal Garden

1st - Irene Howlett (2nd – Joyce Pritchard, 3rd – Bill Healey)

Best Basket/Tub Display

1st – David Nield (2nd – Marion Wilkins, 3rd – Stephen Oates)

Most improved Garden

1st – Mr & Mrs Norman (2nd – Ema Bennett, 3rd – Jackie Ashworth)

Best Balcony Display

1st – Jean Fearon (2nd – Bernie Burgess, 3rd - Ms K. Severs)

People who had not won a category prize but had made a visible contribution to the area by tidying and planting were also included and received Certificates of Appreciation and a £5 voucher kindly donated by Giants Seat Garden Centre in Stoneclough, Bolton.

To read other news from Contour Homes click here.

Posted at 6^th October 2011