Providing Quality Homes & Neighbourhoods

Inside this Issue

Cover Story A Change is Coming There will be many changes happening within social housing over the next 12 months. Inside this issue of In Touch we’ll tell you what they are and how they will affect you. A Winter Warmer A1 Housing and E.ON have started work on a scheme that will allow hundreds of tenants to save money on their energy bills. www.a1housing.co.uk Issue 30 Winter 2012 Welcome from David A message from In Touch’s Tenant Editor, David Smith Editor’s ANOTHER new year has begun and if bursting to get out, it’s time to have a you’re anything like me I’m sure you’ll go. be threatening to make a few New Year As a sucker for TV shows like ‘X resolutions. Factor’, it has dawned on me that most So my tip this time is ‘Just Do It’. of the contestants can’t really sing; on If there is an inner singer, dancer, ‘Come Dine with Me’ usually at least sportsman,p , chef or whatever in youy one person is hopeless in the kitchen; ‘‘StrictlyStrictly Come DanDancing’c always includesincludes someonesomeon with two left feet aandnd as I write tthis,h no-one has beatenbeaten ‘The‘Th Cube’. WELCOME to the winter edition of ‘In Touch’ Here’sHere’s ththee thing, sure and I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas enough thereth is always a and a Happy New Year. winnerwinner butbu the reason I enjoyenjoy wwatching them all is becausebeca isn’t it the ones ourselves out of snowdrifts and skating our whowho can’t sing, cook, way down the road. ddancean or beat The Thankfully we haven’t seen any of the snow CubeCu who are simply that hit us all so badly this time last year and moremo entertaining? ThereTh are many any of it again! reasonsrea why we don’t However, should any blizzard conditions do things but by far return, A1 Housing is more than prepared this theth biggest reason this on page 16 There’s also some very important information on the changes the Government will be making to social housing and what it will mean for council tenants like us. New number will Make sure you read the interview with Bernard Coleman, A1 Housing’s top man, to get ‘Midas’ touch 12 months. THERE will be lots of changes taking of a call to us. We have talked to place at A1 Housing over the next 12 lots of A1 Housing tenants about changing our number and you told us lucky readers can get their hands on some tenants the most will be our new that you would like to reduce the cost free cinema tickets when the new Savoy Golden Number. of calling us from a mobile phone. Cinema opens in Worksop later this year. So, we’ll be switching from an 0800 Enter our completion on page 5 and you In simple terms we’ll be changing our number to a low cost 0300 number. could be one of them. telephone number, but there is much, much more to it than that. This means that while it will no longer Finally, you may wonder why I’m wearing a be free to call us from a landline, it Hawaiian Shirt in the middle of winter. Well, By creating a Golden Number it it’s in memory of my dear friend and fellow means that we can deal with any from a mobile phone and you will only A1 Housing tenant Terry Needham who sadly enquiry you have in one phone call, pay the same cost as a local call from passed away at the beginning of January. Our from registering for a home with us to a landline. thoughts are with his family and friends at this paying your rent; or telling us about sad time. any housing issues you may have, to We’ll be telling you more about our reporting a repair. new number in the next issue of In Enjoy our latest offering. David Touch so don’t miss it.

2 Involving you & Community News Welcome from Bernard A message from A1 Housing’s Managing Director, Bernard Coleman

I HOPE you all had a TiP Merry Christmas and I New Year, new start wish you a Happy New $"% better than me but still in the rubbish Year. try to do whatever you want to do league. As we enter into a new in private until you get better. For In an attempt to boost our example, singing - I know of one A1 on the past year’s Housing tenant who thinks he’s Elvis usually against Alan and Bren who but only at home! successes and failures are annoyingly good, however and make our New Adjusting your goals can also something miraculous happened the Year promise, and this help. If you are a budding football other week and we won! year A1 Housing’s is to manager try playing ‘Dream Team’ Needless to say we danced jigs of continue delivering good or something similar; if you want to joy and enjoyed an evening basking quality services to all " in the smirkland of glory. We had a our tenants. To give you a little inspiration here’s go and we did it. And as a result Les’ This next 12 months is going to be a an example from my own personal experience. Inside me there is a the pub when it was time to leave. Government introduces its Housing Strategy, ‘Hurricane Smith’ of the pool world We’ve lost plenty of times since, the Localism Act and Welfare Reforms, all of bursting to get out. but we’ll always have that victory which have an impact on you the tenant. ' to keep us going and there will be Inside this issue of In Touch you can learn a frankly I’m rubbish but I compensate another day when we’ll get lucky bit more about each of these changes and we for this by mainly playing my buddy again. So, don’t hold back, just go will let you know more about what impact they Les (pictured left) who is a little for it. becomes known. One of the good things that will come out of the changes is the ability of the Council to look at how the Choice Based Lettings system works and strengthen the actions against anti- social tenants. During the next year A1 Housing will be consulting on behalf of the Council on the proposed changes, so I would ask that you please respond when you receive a questionnaire. We also know that times are very hard for everyone at the moment as the impact of the recession and government cuts take hold. It is always a temptation to seek a quick unfortunately all too often it can worsen your " please contact our Money Advisor who will be able to give you some valuable advice and put you in touch with the right places to get "# information go to pages 12 and 13.

Our Call Centre is open from 8am to 5pm - to beat the rush, call after 1pm 3 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk News and events from your TRA News neck of the woods School children dig deep to give playing field new look CHILDREN from Carr Hill School, the Retford Lions Club and # =>9' members of Hallcroft TRA dug deep to add a touch of greenery at Hallcroft Community Centre, Randall Way, with the next /9:" meeting taking place on 30th January 2012. They also hold Retford Lions Club had kindly donated a large number of @ $ month from 9.30am. and will add a touch of colour when the spring and summer months arrive. Hallcroft’s charitable streak doesn’t end there as the senior citizens Bingo Club have also donated £500 to the Lincolnshire Air Ambulance.

Santa pops in to Harworth THE Harworth and Bircotes Christmas As well as allowing celebrations got off to an illuminating Santa to use their start that allowed Santa to make an grotto, Harworth early visit. TRA were one of the Father Christmas experienced a few many local traders % who had stalls at the the way to the event but was helped event and Janet Flynn, secretary of Mattersey Thorpe out by Police who Harworth TRA said: “It was a fantastic IT’S been an eventful winter in Mattersey gave him a lift to the Town Hall where day and was probably the most Thorpe so far as Santa found time to drop he was greeted by the excited children. popular and best yet.” in to see local children who also enjoyed a party and a small feast afterwards. * Thriller night in New Ordsall special thanks must go to Mrs Elsie Toulson and Miss Ellie Toulson who very generously THERE were some spooky goings on at West Hill Community Centre as New supported both events, as well as Andy Ordsall TRA held their Halloween Bash. and Kat Price who helped to organise the Children and adults dressed for the occasion as the normally peaceful Christmas party. neighbourhood was taken over by vampires, zombies and other ghostly ghouls. In the end it was a real Thriller of a night! Carlton Gateway AN after-school Homework club is being held each Tuesday between 4pm and 5.30pm. This will be supervised by a + provide help and support for the children who attend. Children between the ages of 7-11 are invited to the Kids Club which will be held each Friday between 4pm and 5.30pm.

4 Issue 25 Autumn 2010 www.a1housing.co.uk Involving you & Community News WIN tickets for new cinema

WORKSOP is just a few short Oxby, backed the long-awaited months away from welcoming development of a cinema in a brand-new 900 seat cinema Worksop and said: “I am glad that Cinema Competition work is now well underway on the @]^]$ tickets to give away to readers Z"@$ >= of In Touch. and it will be a facility the whole blockbusters to be screened at the new Savoy Cinema. The impressive six-screen of Bassetlaw and beyond can use and enjoy. >$ multiplex is currently being built at your choice just answer the question below: the top of Bridge Street and will “It has been a long time coming feature the very latest in 3D and but we need to be thinking of this Q: How many screens will the new Savoy Cinema digital technology. And following as just the beginning. Bassetlaw have? a grand opening in March 2012, is back open for business and this To enter, you must be a tenant of A1 Housing. Please it will be screening the latest Council will be creative in looking complete the form below and send your entries to: for opportunities to further develop Hollywood blockbusters in time for A1 Housing, Customer Services, Carlton Forest House, the area.” the Easter Half-Term Holidays. Hundred Acre Lane, Worksop, Notts, S81 0TS. For all the latest information and The Savoy Cinema Group is The closing date for all entries is 1st March, 2012 and we to sign up to Savoy Cinema’s behind the project and James will announce the winners in our spring issue of In Touch. Collington, Managing Director, said: “Easter is one of the key A1 Housing will pass your details onto the Savoy Cinema Group. periods in the cinematic calendar exclusive offers visit If you do not wish to be contacted by them, please tick this box: www.savoyworksop.co.uk. You of their major releases. We’re can also keep track of the latest Name:...... looking forward to being fully releases, news and competitions operational by the Easter holidays through Twitter @savoy_worksop Address: ...... so residents of Bassetlaw will or on Facebook by searching for no longer have to head out of SavoyWorksop...... Postcode ...... the district to watch the latest You can also see the cinema Phone:...... Answer:...... movies.” taking shape at Leader of the Council Graham www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/cinema

5 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk Be part of our Tenant Conference

EACH year A1 Housing gives you the chance to shape the way we will be delivering in the coming year, plus changes to your we deliver our services through the annual Tenant Conference. tenancy, the housing waiting list, the Localism Act and the In a change to previous years we will be holding just one Tenant Bassetlaw Games. Conference, where we will be discussing the most up-to-date The issues being discussed and the changes that will be taking issues that affect A1 Housing and you as tenants. place over the next 12 months mean that this could be one of the This includes a review of the last 12 months and what services most important Tenant Conferences to date. As such we would like as many tenants as possible to attend. Places are limited so please return your personal invitation which has been included with this issue of In Touch. We hope to see you there. Where: The Well, Hospital Road, Retford When: Wednesday 14th March, 10am to 2pm (lunch included)

Please note: To ensure we gather the views of all tenants, our 2013 Tenant Conference will be held in Worksop. Bassetlaw embraces Olympic spirit >=]/`{|`} Bassetlaw has already embraced its unique and encompassing spirit. Pierre de Coubertin the founder of the modern Olympic Games said: “The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering "P Over the coming months Bassetlaw residents will have their chance to do just that and participate in sporting events and activities across the District as we seek to make the most of London 2012. Whether it’s Clay Shooting at Hyton Castle, Fencing at North Notts Arena or Cycling in Clumber Park, the Bassetlaw Games gives everybody the opportunity to enjoy Olympic sports right here in Bassetlaw. There are also educational and cultural events taking place, including the fantastic Bassetlaw Schools Torch Relay. The Bassetlaw Games Torch will begin its journey in Worksop in February, travelling a 90-mile route around Bassetlaw before >=" The Torch will seek to visit every school in the District and will be carried by volunteers, running from school to school. A1 Housing is proud to be a partner of the Bassetlaw Games and will be fully involved in helping Bassetlaw residents to be introduced to and participate in new sporting events and activities. If you would like to get involved and are interested in running a leg of the Schools Torch Relay, please contact Vicky Rawson from Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw on 01909 531504 or Visit the website www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/bassetlawgames email [email protected]. for more information and to see a calendar of events.

6 Warming up a winter chill A1 HOUSING and CESP Manager Jon Kirby, added: “We’re committed to and warmer homes thanks to a £3.8m home improvement boost. Around 900 homes are set to be upgraded with a mixture of communities and companies getting together to help people lower energy saving additions such as double glazing, new gas boilers,bboilers, their bills and reduce our effect on the pplanet. new central heating systems and external wall insulation. “By“By tacklitacklingng whole ccommunitiesoommmunities in susuchchh The project to make improvements to homes in areas whereere ttherehere a wawayy we can reallyreally start to makemakke are low incomes and high energy costs is being funded byy energy a difference and build energyenergy company E.ON and A1 Housing as part of the Government’snt’s Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP). everyday lives.”lives.” This is in addition to the Decent Homes programme whichh AA11 A number of homeshomes Housing is continuing to deliver until 2014. with SSolarolar PPanelsaneels asas “We want to help families to reduce their energy bills and iimprovemprove partpart ooff A1A1 HousingHousingg their day to day living,” said Don Spittlehouse, A1 Housing’sg’s andand BBassetlawassetlaw Director of Technical and Housing Services. “This is an excellentxcellent DistrictDists rict CouncilCouncil’s’ss  continualcoontinual plplansans will help them to lower their carbon footprint.” to incorporate Selected homes in Retford, Carlton in Lindrick and Mantonn wilwilll formsforms ofo receive the works and individual assessments will take placeace aatt renewablerenewable each property to determine which energy saving improvementsments energyenergy toto will be made. homeshomes in Portfolio Holder for Housing at Council, Bassetlaw.Bassetlaw. Councillor Alan Rhodes said: “It is important that we take WorkWork iiss duedue to advantage of opportunities like this to help tenants reducee theitheirr startstart in ththee nnextext ": fewfew wweekseeks andand help those on a low income it will also improve the quality of ourour individualindividual hhouseholdsouseehoh lds willwill bbee housing stock.” contactedcontacted to sasayy wwhathat worworkk wwillill be Most of the project is being funded by energy company E.ONON taking place. Renewable Energy Lift off at Abbey Grove! WE’RE very proud of the work we do when it comes to renewable BACK in December, if you lived around the *ƒ`" energy and saving tenants money Lowtown area of Worksop you may have And one of the last things to go was the large on their fuel bills, while also being noticed something happening to Abbey Grove chimney from the old boiler house, and as you kind to the environment. Sheltered Scheme. can see from the photos here, it was a big job! At the moment we are in the As part of the big renovations that have taken It all took place just before Christmas and just to place there over the last couple of years, we spread a little Christmas Cheer and generosity, replaced the large old solid fuel heating system heating systems to 60 homes in we also dished out all the leftover solid fuel to East Markham, Dunham-on-Trent that serviced the whole building with a series elderly A1 Housing residents who live close by. ‚Z and Mattersey Thorpe that do not have access to gas mains or Going, going, gone! heating systems. A1 Housing’s Director of Technical and Housing Services, Don Spittlehouse said: “Helping tenants to reduce their fuel bills and become more energy % heating is something we take very seriously, and we hope to continue delivering projects like this across Bassetlaw.”

To report incidents of Anti-Social Behaviour 7 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk ‘Times Are a’Changin’

ACK in 1964, Bob Dylan sang ‘The Times to make your decisions, and you as a society should do that. BThey Are a’Changin’, but this could easily It’s about communities challenging councils, if you didn’t like be the soundtrack of 2012 with so many things something before you had to wait until the elections and use your vote. In the future communities will be able to challenge and bid to run certain services and amenities which is a big shift in power. None more so than the introduction of the Localism Act which will see certain powers How is this act going to directly affect our from Central Government handed down to a tenants? local level - in theory giving you a greater say on Possibly the biggest change is The Government’s how your community is run. concept that Social Housing should be used as There are many areas to the Localism Act a stepping stone and only for those people who 2011 that deal with issues such as social need it. housing, planning, building more housing, giving This is called ‘tenure reform’ where councils will " have the right to no-longer give long-term secure One of the biggest changes will see local tenancies; instead new tenants will be given a councils given a ‘Power of Competence’. This minimum tenancy of between 2 to 5-years. means that as long as it is within current laws It allows Councils to have greater control of the and legislation, councils like Bassetlaw will have length of time someone can be a tenant and the more power to make changes and allow more ‚ things to happen in their own area, without being told what to do better off, you should be moving into the private sector and that a by Central Government. council house shouldn’t be a home for life. But we thought it was important to focus on what the Localism Act It also covers the type of homes individuals and families live in, 2011 will mean to A1 Housing Tenants directly. for example; if you are a single person living in a three-bedroom To get a better idea we spoke to A1 Housing’s Managing Director property, this could be better used to house a family and the Bernard Coleman who explained what is in store for all of us in single person could move into a more appropriate property. the next 12 months. However, these new rules will only affect new tenants and all existing tenants are protected, especially the elderly. How much of a change is the introduction of the Localism Act 2011 going to make? There are going to be a lot of other changes to the way that housing is delivered. For example; we will be able to have our own rules about the waiting list and the way we allocate homes. that I can remember, and after 30-odd years of doing this, it is the biggest legislation since the 1980 and 85 Housing Acts. The 1980 / called ‘Self-Financing’, how will this work? those rights. It will change the lives of tenants going forward. At the moment the council collects the rent, gives it to the Why has The Government introduced this act? government who take a cut and then give us the rest back to run our services. Currently, the Government take away around When the Coalition Government came into power they came up £4.5million a year from Bassetlaw District Council rents. with ‘The Big Society’, this act will support that concept. This is their way of saying that Central Government doesn’t have a right Under ‘Self-Financing’ every council in the country will get all of

8 Issue 25 Autumn 2010 www.a1housing.co.uk Involving you & Community News

the money they collect in rent and decide how it is spent. It means going to offer services above and beyond what the Government that when we make decisions about increasing rents in the future, expects. So it makes that annual discussion all the more tenants will be able to see how much it costs to provide certain important and the tenants involved in those discussions have a services and if they are prepared to put extra money in to provide greater chance of shaping the way we deliver services. extra services. For example; groups like the A1 Hundred Club, Be Heard from The down side to ‘Self-Financing’ is that some authorities have Home, Quality Impact Panel, all the ways we consult with tenants been running at a loss and the debt will have to be shared will be actively involved in helping to shape that process. between all councils. Some councils will have their debt reduced But I think there is always a need for more people to get involved - one council close to us will have £540million wiped off their debt and everyone needs to be represented. Some of our groups are - and some councils will have their debt increased. Bassetlaw is under-represented in younger people and working families and going to have to take on an extra £27.5million of debt from other it’s important that we get their valuable feedback. „" I hope that we are an organisation that is willing to accept tenants However, in the long run we will be better off because what we comments and criticisms, you can’t improve unless you know collect in rent is what we can spend and we will have greater where you’ve gone wrong and the only way we know we are control of things. going wrong is by people telling us.

" Some areas of the Localism Act have started to drop into place councils who were borrowing more money than they should and it and some will take up to 12 months or more to happen. $" It will also mean tenants will know exactly what they are getting When it comes to housing, Bassetlaw District Council will have to for every pound they pay in rent. bring in what’s called a Strategic Tenancy Policy, which is going to lay down how they want to use each of the elements in the Act. It should also see an improvement of services and hopefully allow us to plan better. It will reduce a lot of uncertainty when it comes We are working with the council at the moment to produce an to budgets as we will not have to wait and see how much the interim policy by March 2012 and by November 2012 they will Government decides to give us each year. have to have a full policy in place. So the next 12 months is going to be a very busy period as all the The Act also talks about communities having a greater say, $ how will our tenants be able to have their say on how things succession and the new waiting list will all have to be consulted are run? on and introduced, we hope that everyone will be able to have Through the Localism Act there will be a greater expectation for their say. tenants to have a say on how their services are run and managed and to judge whether this is being done properly. By setting up independent tenant panels, like our Quality Impact Panel, that are not involved in existing tenants and residents groups, they will be able to go into areas and conduct audits and checks on our services and make recommendations to either the Board or the Council on changes they think are relevant.

Each year we make a ‘Local Service Offer’, this says how we are

9 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk Foxtrots, Fortune Tellers, Flowers

OLDER people have an important role to play in our communities, Westhill Community Centre, Retford and to celebrate this A1 Housing held a number of events across Pensioners put on their dancing shoes to show that you don’t the district as part of UK Older Person’s Day. have to be on Strictly Come Dancing to enjoy a Waltz or a Foxtrot On Friday 7th October hundreds of pensioners from across as they held a tea dance. Bassetlaw got together to show how important it is to stay active Other attractions included stalls and information stands from in later life – the theme for this year’s events. Bassetlaw Museum, Retford Art Club, the Emergency Services Joice Rennie, Director of Strategy and Change at A1 Housing, and A1 Housing’s Adaptations team who dressed for the occasion said: “It was a fabulous day that was enjoyed by everyone who in a 1940s style. came out to take part in this national day of celebration. Conway Gardens, Retford “It goes to show what an important part older people play in our Residents of the Sheltered Scheme held a coffee morning in aid society and how vital it is to remain active in later life.” of MacMillan Cancer Care and also showed their psychic side Activities varied from Tea Dancing to fortune telling and coffee $#>" "ˆ session took the grand total raised to over the £300 mark. events took place and what went on.

Westhill Conway Westmorland

No Cold Callers! Stay safe - get your electric WORKING in partnership with and Nottinghamshire Trading Standards we have set up a ‘No Cold blanket tested for free Caller Zone’ in Ordsall, around Westhill Community Centre. NOTTINGHAMSHIRE County Council is urging older and Six local residents will be looking out for any cold callers and pass disabled people with electric blankets to get them tested this winter at a free testing event on 26th January in Retford. area warden. For more information, contact A1 Housing Warden To book your appointment contact the Council’s trading Michelle Smith on 01777 711104. standards team on 01623 452005. Further details will be given when a booking is made and if your blanket fails the test, you will be given a voucher for 50% off a replacement. Report faulty grab-rails At a similar event in Northamptonshire recently, 352 electric THERE have been a number of recent reports of grab-rails blankets were tested and 236 (67%) of these were found to and hand-rails that have given way through general wear be faulty. and tear, and in some cases users have fallen. Councillor Mick Murphy, Cabinet Member for Community We would ask all tenants who notice any stair, hand or grab Safety at Notts County Council, said: “Electric blankets rails which are starting to come loose or are faulty to report can be a great way to stay warm if they’re used and stored this to A1 Housing immediately through our Freephone correctly. But they can be dangerous if they are not. number 0800 590 542. For information visit www.esc.org.uk

10 Issue 25 Autumn 2010 www.a1housing.co.uk and Fun at Olders Person’s Day

Westmorland House, Bircotes Swallow Court, Misterton Westmorland House was packed to the rafters as residents 9 enjoyed the company of pensioners from Balmoral, Worksop from the Fire Service, craft stalls and a lunch together as well as a during a fun-packed day. " Just some of the activities they enjoyed included a chance to shop 8;& at stalls from a number of local businesses and charities before More than £100 was raised for charity by residents and visitors tucking into a pie and pea lunch. $ The Tickhill Lions kindly donated £100 and ran a bumper bingo demonstration and a lunchtime buffet. session before the afternoon was brought to a close by singer Marty Lee. 7$& \"#"$" Z helped to raise more than £350 for Bassetlaw Hospice, all of which was kindly assisted by Notts County Cllr Glynn Gilfoyle.

Abbey Grove

Larwood Swallow Court

Support Sessions from Bassetlaw Hospice IF YOU care for a loved one, are someone who is coming opportunity to meet professional care providers.” * “For those people living with a cancer diagnosis we are able Hospice now run three weekly drop-in support session. to offer support from health professionals and the opportunity The sessions are being run in partnership with Bassetlaw of support from others in a similar position,” added Gill. Community Health at The New Library, Worksop where “Coming to terms with the loss of a loved one can be very experienced nurses and a team of volunteers are on hand to $ listen, offer guidance and provide helpful information. you, but we can offer help.” It is also a chance for carers, cancer survivors and the The support sessions are as follows: bereaved to meet others in a similar situation to themselves, # "#$%&'( as Senior Nurse Gill Bradley explained. # "#$)*+3%'5 “Many people act as a carer for someone with highly complex 12noon needs due to their illness and although it can be a very # #$)*'(%&'5 rewarding experience, for many it can be physically hard and to 12noon emotionally draining,” she said. For more information, contact Michelle Godfrey on 01777 “We are pleased that we now can provide a much needed 863352. Appointments can also be made at Bassetlaw service, giving personalised support and guidance and an Hospice, Retford. Contact 01777 863270 for more details.

11 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk -5M() HC8CCFGH9D@9B89FG 5B83 - Stop doorstop lenders HCH<9F98=H/B=CB ALL A1 Housing tenants are being urged to turn away doorstep our community who can be lenders who charge high amounts of interest with our ‘Stop overcome by debt and end up Doorstep Lending’ campaign. living in fear and despair,” said Don Spittlehouse, A1 Housing’s all our tenants, we are asking you to think twice before taking Director of Technical and out loans with companies such as Provident, Shopacheck and Housing Services. Greenwoods. “People often start borrowing To break your cycle of door step borrowing call our Money Advisor on “Doorstep lenders prey on the most vulnerable members of only small amounts of money 01909 533744 pay excessive amounts of interest and owing far more money than they ever dreamt of.” 2 Shires Credit Union can offer a much better deal when it comes to borrowing money, while supporting its members to ultimately become savers, not borrowers. “We want tenants to make the right choices,” added Mr Spittlehouse. “We want to help them maximise their income, all, ensure that they are able to stay in their home.” For more information on how we can help you to deal with Doorstep Lenders please contact A1 Housing’s Money Advisor on 01909 533 744. % 2 Shires Credit Union call 01909 500575.

Clear Rent Account Christmas savings winners cash in with Credit Union EVERY other month we select two lucky winners of HAS Christmas left a big hole in your pocket? Then why not our Clear Rent Account Prize Draw who each win start saving for next year now? !'@5&J$$ 2 Shires Credit Union has a savings account that can spread Our latest winners are: Mr Robert Smith and Mrs the cost of Christmas AND give you around 1.5% interest on Marjorie Merrills, both from Worksop. your money. We also have a Super Prize Draw for March where two Save Weeks Total lucky tenants will receive a minimum of £300 each. The £5 45 £225 prize draw is our way of saying thank you for keeping your rent account up to date and to be in with a chance £10 45 £450 of winning you must: £15 45 £675

#= You can use one of the many local collection points for cash months deposits or pay by Standing Order. #: #{|Š{Š‹{{‹Œ‹ #* in Queen’s Buildings (Annex), Potter Street, Worksop. They are open between 10am-2pm on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and N$$& Saturday. NX5'Z5Z@(('[@ www.2shires.org.uk

12 Issue 25 Autumn 2010 www.a1housing.co.uk Involving you & Community News Meet our new Money Advisor ADAM Mills is A1 Housing’s new Money Advisor who can provide agencies such as 2 Shires Credit Union, Framework, Citizens " Advice and Christians Against Poverty. How are you settling in at A1 Housing? I’ve also been able to help people on our housing waiting list by It’s going well thanks, I’ve been here since November and I’m $" helping more people each week. $$ What did you do before you joined us? I cover the whole of Bassetlaw and run a number of pre-booked Well, I’ve come from the Department of Work and Pensions surgeries across the district and I can also visit tenants in their where I was a Customer Service Executive and gave advice on homes. $" Just give me a call or make an appointment to see me. I’m I was also a volunteer for Derbyshire Unemployed Workers not here to make any judgements, just to help people with any Centre where I provided information and advice on a wide range | of subjects including debt, housing, employment, welfare and Housing service. education. If you have money worries and would #$ $ our tenants already? Adam to make an appointment. He will be Just some of the ways I’ve been able to help people happy to visit you in your home or at any |=" and tax credits they didn’t know they were \5'Z5Z@((]33 entitled to. Email: [email protected] I’ve referred people who are struggling with debt and tenancy problems to

Changes to Working Tax Credit If you are a couple who have at least one child and claim working Child Tax Credit tax credit, you may have to increase your working hours in order Currently, if your annual income does not exceed £41,300 most to qualify for future payments. people are eligible for some Child Tax Credit. From April 2012 you will now be required to work 24 hours or From 6th April, 2012, this limit will be lowered for most people but more a week in order to qualify for Working Tax Credit. This has will depend on your own individual circumstances. increased from 16 hours a week. Backdating Should you currently work less than 24 hours a week your Did you know that any new claims or changes in circumstances Working Tax Credit will stop from 6th April, 2012. will now only be backdated for one month instead of the previous There are some exceptions to the new rules for those aged 60 period of three months. or over, those receiving extra Working Tax Credit because of a For more advice call the Tax Credit Helpline on 0845 300 3900 or disability or if you are ill, an inpatient in hospital or in prison. """$$'>*"

13 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk Buy it, Fit it, Test it

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service has launched its latest campaign to make sure everyone has $" The ‘Buy it, Fit it, Test it’ message is part of the latest $ coincides with a change in the way the Service provides Home Safety Checks, by prioritising those people most at risk. Z#}*$’O# $ " %$ and weekly testing is quick and simple. “But some people may need more support because they suffer from a disability, mental health problem or other social issue, or are elderly and have no family living nearby to help them. These are the people who need us the most.” A new risk-based approach will decide which households crews should visit, and anyone requesting a Home Safety Check (HSC) will be asked a series of questions and given a priority score. ‘@$%’ Households with higher scores will be recommended for Russ Dolby, Ian Garratt (Crew Manager), Kate Smith and Paul Smith. =%Z$ appropriate. Those at a lower risk will be provided with, or signposted to, home information enabling them to measures. Mr Buckley added: “The Buy it, Fit it, Test it campaign encourages people who are able to take responsibility $ to do so, allowing us to focus on helping those who are most at risk and unable to protect themselves.” For further information and advice visit "„""$" Using a mobile phone? Non-emergency Police number Dial 112 in an emergency AS of January 2012 all 43 police forces in and Wales will be using the DID you know that if you need to make By dialling 112 your call will be put number 101 to receive non-emergency a call to the emergency services dialling straight through to your local emergency calls. 112 instead of 999 could save you vital services saving you approximately 20 seconds. seconds. The new non-emergency number can be used when you want to talk to a local That’s because if you dial 999 from a You also do not need a mobile phone $ mobile, your call goes through to central signal in order to be able to make a stolen property, drug use or dealing, or control in Scotland, mainly to determine call to the emergency services. This is information about a crime. whether it is a genuine call, as three because your mobile will use a signal consecutive numbers can easily be from any network provider to ensure it Calls to 101 are answered by police call dialled by mistake on an unlocked gets through. handlers local to you, which ensures mobile. they can answer and deal with your call appropriately. 14 Young Try something new Tenants Page TENANT Training is just one of the many things that A1 Housing run free of charge for all our tenants. We offer many courses, some that can help you to improve your skills and others that allow you to take up a new hobby. Darren (pictured right) is an A1 Housing Tenant and took one of our recent cookery courses, so In Touch had a chat with him to see how it went. Here is what he had to say: _$RJ$$"$$&$ you say you’re the next Jamie Oliver now? Not quite, but I’ve learned how to cook properly and how to make "' the kitchen, to try new things and experiment with different foods. What sort of things have you been making then? We’ve tended to make a couple of different things at each session. Some of the things I already knew how to do but have learned a new recipe, like soups and some pasta dishes. But I’ve also been $$$" #$ My overall knowledge has really improved as well as learning how to eat a bit healthier and what foods to buy in the supermarket. I’m also a single Dad with two young kids so everything I do here I go home and do it with them. Doing things like baking with them is really good fun, we get a bit messy, but it’s a fun thing to do together. Would you recommend a course like this to other tenants? ”|= really helpful - and they’re free if you’re a tenant, which is a real bonus.

Course Dates Times Weeks Tenant Training If you would like to book yourself onto Treasurers Training 17th January, 2012 9.30am – 12noon 3 the next series of cookery courses, or 24th January, 2012 9.30am – 12noon any of the courses listed here please Intermediate IT 16th January, 2012 to 9.30am – 11.30am 4 contact Lindsay Bradshaw on 01909 6th February, 2012 533226. All our courses take place in Introduction to IT 18th January, 2012 to 9.30am – 11.30am 4 our Training Centre at Carlton Forest, 8th February, 2012 Worksop and places must be booked Cooking on a budget 26th January, 2012 9.30am – 11.30am 1 in advance. In some cases transport will be provided to andd from tthehe 9th February, 2012 9.30am – 11.30am course. Money Matters 15th February, 2012 9.30am – 11.30am 1 Intermediate IT 20th February 2012 to 9.30am – 11.30am 5 JOIN us on Facebookok 19th March, 2012 and get the latest First Aid 21st February, 2012 9.15am – 3pm 1 information on Introduction to IT 22nd February, 2012 to 9.30am – 11.30am 5 anything to do with 21st March, 2012 A1 Housing. AGM Training 28th February, 2012 9.30am – 11.30am 1 We have a group Running Your First Home 14th March, 2012 9.30am – 11.30am 1 dedicated to our younger tttenants 21st March, 2012 9.30am – 11.30am and you can also chat to some of our First Aid 20th March, 2012 9.30am – 11.30am representatives through our weekly online surgeries.Find us at: Facebook/ CIEH Level 2 Health & Safety 26th March, 2012 9.15am – 3pm 1 A1Housingcustomerservices

15 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk Don’t get caught out by a cold snap

IN the last issue of In Touch we featured a handy guide to get you prepared for any cold snaps this winter. Frozen Pipes – how to handle them You can still read this on our website www.a1housing.co.uk in the Turn off the water at the main stop tap, this is usually under ‘In Touch’ section, but if you missed it, here are some quick tips to the sink. Should your pipes burst while they are frozen, this keep your house running through the remainder of the winter. will prevent any severe leaks when they thaw out. Preventing Burst pipes – what to do Turn off the water at the main stop tap and then turn off any frozen water heaters. pipes Turn on all your taps to drain the system, when the water stops running turn all the taps off. Check your pipes are Call A1 Housing on 0800 590542 to report your leak or for lagged and insulated, any more advice. especially those outside. Open the loft hatch as the heat from your home can prevent pipes from freezing. Set your heating to come on at regular intervals or even leave Gas boilers your heating on a low heat constantly, especially during extremely If your boiler should stop cold temperatures (- 5 and below). By doing this overnight the risk working call our Freephone of frozen and burst pipes the following day is reduced. number 0800 590542 and If you are going away on holiday, turn your water off at the stop use Option 1, which will tap and drain your system. Also tell your Neighbourhood Housing put you through to our Gas Manager or Warden you will be away. engineers Liberty (GMT).

SO far we have managed to escape the bleak Key staff have been given extra training to winter we experienced 12 months ago – but that use this equipment which means that we can doesn’t mean we are not prepared if it happens keep our Gas, Heating and Plumbing teams again. as mobile as possible during the worst of the (SJU To make sure we are fully prepared for any weather. weather, A1 Housing has invested in two 4x4 Thanks to the 4x4 vehicles we will be able to and reach vulnerable tenants and estates and our snow clearing equipment that include snow repairs operatives will also be better equipped ploughs, gritters and winches. (Pictured) with grit and shovels to ensure that we can get bear it! to tenants in need when it is safe to do so. Even with all this new equipment, we’ll be keeping one eye on the weather and hoping for a much milder start to the New Year.

1616 Issue 25 Autumn 2010 www.a1housing.co.uk Involving you & Community News Kids help with Christmas Operation

FATHER Christmas and his Elves paid a special early visit to the children of Holy Family and Prospect Infants Schools as part of this year’s Operation Christmas Child. ‘@$% with toys, gifts, sweets and other presents that were sent to underprivileged and impoverished children around the world this Christmas. Back in November, A1 Housing arranged for Father Christmas and his helpers to drop in and collect all the presents and also bumped the total number of shoe boxes to over the 140 mark – an improvement on last year’s total. “We have been involved with Operation Christmas Child for a few years now,” said Sam Roberts, Customer Services Manager for A1 Housing. “Each year we are amazed by the generosity of the children who donate shoeboxes as well as our staff who help out. We’d also like to thank Worksop Father Christmas visits Holy Family School, Worksop Lions who kindly lent Father Christmas a Sleigh for the morning.” Shoe boxes donated from the Worksop area were sent to countries such as Belarus, Liberia, Ukraine, Serbia or Swaziland where children who would not normally have received a present, got to open something on Christmas Day. Jenny Green from Samaritan’s Purse, the organisation behind Operation Christmas Child added: “Thank you so much to all the children who donated shoeboxes and A1 Housing for their help. “This is such an exciting campaign and incredible to think that every one of the gifts that were handed over blessed a child somewhere and brought amazing joy to their lives.” For information on how to get involved in next year’s Operation Christmas Child or to donate, visit www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk Children from Prospect Infants School, Worksop with Santa A1 Housing staff boost local Toy Appeal STAFF at A1 Housing helped to make sure that as many children in Bassetlaw got a present to open this Christmas by donating 80 gifts to the David Hawke Toy Appeal. For more than 20 years, Val Casey has collected toys and games for underprivileged children in Bassetlaw and thanked everyone who helped with this year’s appeal. She said: “Christmas is for children and anything we can do to make it special for them is worth it. “It’s amazing that A1 Housing has now joined us with our Appeal, we would like to say a big thank you to all who donated gifts. In the end we collected over 1,200 presents.” Z”}:‘$„ of presents at A1 Housing and said: “Christmas is such a special time of year. It’s brilliant to know that a child who would not normally get any presents was able to get up on Christmas Day and have something to open.” Nicola Perkins (right) hands over more than 80 presents to Tracey Stout from David Hawke

Get in touch with A1 Housing by text on - 17 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk Make yourself ‘Heard from Home’

ARE you tired of not having a say? Do you wish you could October - Mr Ronald Whitehead, Tuxford change the way that A1 Housing provide some of their services? November - Miss Mary Bowskill, Harworth Well, you can do this all from the comfort of your own home and December - Heather Jukes, Worksop really make an impact on some of the decisions that are made. You can join our ‘Be Heard From Home’ group by calling You could also win yourself some Love to Shop vouchers in the Z%{|Š{Š‹ƒ•‹`{#$ +" A1Housingcustomerservices. Opposite are the names of our latest winners who did just that and congratulations go to: Question of the Month YOU took the time to answer our questions and send the answers back… But what were the results?

October November December We asked you a series of We asked: Have you visited the are you with the services you questions about reporting anti- A1 Housing website in the last receive from A1 Housing? And the social behaviour (ASB). From your six months? results were: answers we learned the following: # •™— •ƒ—„^ # '$ and that you would use our 39% - Ok Tenant’s Handbook or ask their online services to do things :=} like; Report a repair and view |˜—„” information on ASB. your repairs statement; Contact Customer Services; Pay We also asked which services you # '%*| your rent and view your rent would like to access after 5pm? Housing either over the phone or account; Report a complaint. The top three answers were: Repairs, face-to-face. Decent Homes Advice and Property # # Viewings. are available on our website like to be updated on a weekly www.a1housing.co.uk, so why basis and expect it to be resolved not take a look? within 30 days. # @$ # >+ like us to provide workshops in like to see from a Neighbourhood your community to show you =} how to use our online services? with ASB complaints are: Being 47% of you said yes and this is responsive, being helpful and being something we are looking into. knowledgeable. Could you be our new Tenant Voice in Manton? COULD you be the voice of your community? Could you work they have to us at regular meetings. with A1 Housing to represent your fellow tenants and help to We are currently looking for a Tenant Voice to represent New make your community a better place to live? Manton and join those who currently represent Old Manton, If the answer to those questions is ‘Yes!’ and you live in the New Mid-Manton, Manton Villas and Priory Mews. Manton area then we would like to hear from you. If you would like to know more about being a Tenant Voice The role of a Tenant Voice is simple, speak with your fellow please contact Jim Fieldhouse on 01909 533242 or email tenants and residents and pass on any problems or concerns "–|""$

18 Issue 25 Autumn 2010 www.a1housing.co.uk Involving you & Community News How are we doing? EACH year the A1 Housing Board, which is made up of A1 and so that you can see how we are doing, we have shown just a tenants, Bassetlaw residents and representatives of Bassetlaw few of these in the table below. District Council set targets for us to work towards. The information tells you how we performed in a selection These are spread across all areas of A1 Housing, such as of areas between April 2010 and March 2011, July 2011 and Housing Management, Customer Services and Repairs and make September 2011, and our targets for 2011/12. sure that we are giving you a good level of service and continue The colour coded faces tell you whether we are on target, slightly to meet high standards. below or doing better than we expected. There are more than 120 targets that we have to work towards,

Area What we measure How we Our performance Our target How are performed in between July for 2011/12 we doing? 2010/11 2011 and Sept 2011** Customer Average Time Taken to respond to complaints 6 5 5.00 Contact (Working days)

Customer % of Telephone calls answered in 10 seconds 95.35 No data from 95.00 Contact BDC

Housing Average time taken to relet properties 23.85 21.90 21.00 Management

Housing % ASB closed cases in the current reporting 94.83 71.02 96.00 Management period which have been resolved

Housing Estate Inspections - % done and report sent 95.00 97.00 100.00 Management out in 10 working days

Housing Current Rent Arrears (£’s) 299,045 363,841 290,000 Management

Housing Proportion of rent collected exc b/f arrears 99.57 98.97 100.04 Management

Repairs % emergency repairs completed in timescale 99.95 99.90 99.90

Repairs Non emergency repairs - % of appointments 99.75 99.63 99.80 made that are kept

Repairs % repairs completed “Right First Time” 99.58 99.85 99.85

Adaptations Average time taken to complete Adaptations 93.63 48.79 90.00 for all works (calendar days)

Decent Overall Customer Satisfaction with Decent 93.38 86.10 95.00 Homes Homes works

Supported Response rate to warden intercom calls 98.13 99.00 98.50 Housing received at the A1 Contact Centre - % in 30 seconds ››>$ `{||œ|``{||„'`{|`ž" If you do not understand any of the information or would like to

KEY Above / On Just Below Below know more about the information we have provided, please call our Target Target Target Customer Services team on 01909 534 520.

For gardening and handyperson services, call 19 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk Estate Inspection Programme Estate Inspections January 2012 to March 2012

{N) Neighbourhood 8 Meeting Point All start at 10am $| Car park outside block 1-6 of Debbie Savage Lowtown, Clinton Street, Ely Close, Lincoln View Tuesday 10th Jan, 2012 /^ 01909 534467 Manton – Featherston Avenue, Hardwick Road, Parking area outside 25 Rushey Michelle Hoggard Thursday 19th Jan, 2012 Rushey Close, etc Close 01909 533718 ‘}Š|/ Donna Bell Prospect Thursday 26th Jan, 2012 Way Worksop 01909 533284 Gary Plumpton Rhodesia Thursday 2nd Feb, 2012 Community House, Tylden Road 01909 533715 Manton – Foxglove Close, Howard Street, Howard Street - adjacent to the car Debbie Savage Talbot Road, Tenby Grove, St Pauls Road, Tuesday 14th Feb, 2012 park off Lanchester Gardens. 01909 534467 Lincoln Street, Furnival Street Langold – Chestnut Road, Laburnum Drive, Laburnum Road Community Paula Owen Thursday 23rd Feb, 2012 Dyscarr Close, Goldthorpe Close, Doncaster Rd Centre 01909 535516 Osberton View car park, off June Pocklington Kilton North Tuesday 28th Feb, 2012 Browning Close 01909 533178 Balmoral Community Centre, Donna Bell Valley Road and Gateford Thursday 8th Mar, 2012 Princess Anne Road 01909 533284 Michelle Hoggard Priory Estate and The Mews Thursday 15th Mar, 2012 Bushmead Mews 01909 533718 {N) Neighbourhood Retford & Harworth Areas Meeting Point All start at 10am $| Harworth East – Wimpey Estate and Bottom of Dorchester Road/ Adele Hewison Thursday 12th Jan, 2012 Thoresby Close Grosvenor Road 01777 713209 Retford - North Road, Mattersey, Outside main entrance of Conway Caroline Hurt Tuesday 24th Jan, 2012 Mattersey Thorpe, Sutton, Lound Gardens, off Galway Crescent 01777 713867 Retford Central – Spital Hill, Moorgate, Jason Green Tuesday 31st Jan, 2012 Bottom of Wellington Street Eagle Place, Armstrong Road 01777 713204 Westhill Community Centre, Christine Eyre Ordsall Thursday 9th Feb, 2012 Cheyne Walk 01777 713866 Elkesley, Gamston, Bothamsall, Christine Eyre Tuesday 21st Feb, 2012 Holly Bush Close, Elkesley West Drayton, Thrumpton and Ranby 01777 713866 Tuesday The Beeches Community Centre, Christine Eyre Tuxford 13th March, 2012 Birch Court 01777 713866 Thursday Hallcroft Community Centre, off Caroline Hurt Hallcroft 22nd March, 2012 Randall Way 01777 713867 Tuesday Junction of Lidget Lane and Hirst Jason Green Retford Central – St Saviours Estate 29th March, 2012 Road 01777 713204 A1 HOUSING has its own collection To use this service, please call our service to help tenants get rid of bulky freephone number 0800 590 542, or you BULKY rubbish. can arrange for a collection to be made If you have large items such as sofas, directly with your local caretaker. rubbish dining chairs and tables, washing All payments can be made by cash Let A1 Housing machines and fridges that are no longer or cheque and must be given to the take the strain of use, A1 Housing caretakers can now caretaker on the collection date, who will remove these for a small charge of then issue you with a receipt. £5.20 per bulky item. 20 Involving you & Community News Improving your estates

OVER the coming years’ we will be working hard to improve 2010/11 and maintain your estates through a planned maintenance East Manton, Priory, West Manton, The Mews, Sandy Lane, programme. Westgate, St Johns Court, Garside Street. >„`{|{œ|| 2011/12 includes the following work: Harworth, Blyth, Styrrup, Scrooby, Misson, Everton, Ranskill, # ]„ Oldcotes, Langold, Costhorpe, Carlton-in-Lindrick. # @$ consultation and local councillors (such as footpaths, etc) +5'+€'( # Central Retford, South Leverton, North Leverton, Habblesthorpe, areas and car parks and other Disability Discrimination Act Cottam, Treswell, Headon, Rampton, Stokeham, East Markham, (DDA) issues Askham, Laneham, Dunham on Trent, Ragnall, Darlton, # Normanton-on-Trent, Sturton le Steeple, Clayworth, Clarborough, Hayton, North Wheatley, Bole, Torworth, Mattersey, Mattersey # ] Thorpe, Sutton, Lound, Beckingham, Walkeringham, Gringley, West Stockwith, Misterton. # %„ +5'(€'3 social behaviour Thievesdale, Prospect, Keswick Road, Valley Road, Gateford, The programme opposite tells you when we will be in each area Larwood, Sunnybank, Bracebridge, Kilton. and we will consult with residents before we start any work. 2014/15 Please be aware, not all areas are guaranteed to receive work due to budgetary limitations. If you have any questions please Ordsall, Thrumpton, Ranby, Elkesley, Gamston, Bothamsall, West :=}" Drayton, Tuxford, Hallcroft, North Road.

Advice and information from your Community Surgeries Neighbourhood Housing Officer

Location Service Kilton - Rayton Spur Community Centre, ]>|{"ƒ{||"ƒ{„:=} Rayton Spur, Worksop Sandy Lane - 1 Sandhill House, Worksop ]@|{"ƒ{|`„:=} ~) 91 Lancastrian Way, Worksop ]>|{"ƒ{||"ƒ{„:=} Carlton - 24-28 Sycamore Road ]>`"|‹ƒ"•‹„:=}  - Community House, />`•„:=}" 3 Cunningham Close Tuxford - Mine of Information, 2 Market Place #>Š"ƒ{||"ƒ{„:=} Misterton - The Misterton Centre, High Street #>Š"ƒ{||"ƒ{„:=}" Harworth„%9} ]'|{|`„:=} @žŠ"ƒ{||"ƒ{„9}

21 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk %&'()*+$-/45## Board Update times a year to discuss and review everything that happens within the organisation. Below is a summary of the key decisions the Board service areas of the organisation. Each year they conduct a # self-assessment to ensure proper monitoring is taking place # and the terms of reference for each group are being met. Any " # >*‚=$`{||œ|`M # >* This sets out the role of a Board Member, the conditions that our Board has to abide by and acts as general rule book for items; Future structure of the Warden Service, Ombudsman their conduct. Annual Report, Annual Equality and Diversity Report and the # >*%”M> ]" $} November Board Champions have delegated to them, this is reviewed The Board was presented with the following items at their annually. November meeting: # ‚'* Statutory Financial Accounts for the Year Ended 31st March, # ‘ 2011. of non-urgent repairs # „'$*$Z** # >`{|`œ|ƒ%” Vice Chair. Plan October # >=$*$`{|{œ|| # >*Z‚%„ # Z Action Plan – A1 Housing has a number of monitoring groups recommendations following their inspection in 2010 called a ‘Champions Group’, each of these look at different # >*} Board Day Date Venue Time Tuesday 31st January, 2012 Worksop Town Hall, Ceres Suite 6.30 - 9.30pm Meetings Tuesday 28th February, 2012 Retford Town Hall, Council Chamber 6.30 - 9.30pm Tuesday 27th March, 2012 Worksop Town Hall, Ceres Suite 6.30 - 9.30pm >|‹$+" $" Leaseholders - are you gas safe? Gas Safety # '$+ your home is maintained and used EACH year up to 50 people in this country properly in accordance with the lose their lives to Carbon Monoxide manufacturer’s instructions. poisoning. # Carbon Monoxide is a colourless, known as an Electrical Installation odourless, tasteless gas and deadly periodic inspection report, to be carried amounts can build up in your home if your out every 10 years or when there is a gas appliances are faulty or if a room is change of tenancy. not ventilated properly. An electrical inspection can be carried out The early symptoms of poisoning such by A1 Housing, please contact 0800 590 as headaches, nausea, dizziness and We have negotiated a discounted rate for 542 (extension 3) for details. tiredness can easily be mistaken for leaseholders and they can be contacted Notice Board direct on Freephone 0800 542 7200 or something is wrong until it’s too late. 0114 294 2040. # >/Z Electric Safety Event will take place on Wednesday As leaseholders you have a responsibility 29th February, 2012 in the Venetian to yourself and to the other people living We also think it is important to be extra Room at Queens Building, Worksop in your home to make sure your gas safe when it comes to electricity and have between 2pm and 4pm. appliances are safe and are regularly the following tips for leaseholders: # >/# serviced by a “Gas Safe” registered # ”$ early November, if you would like to engineer. ignore warning signs like burning see the minutes from the meeting these A1 Housing can offer this service through smells, sounds of arcing (buzzing or can be found on www.a1housing.co.uk our main contractors Liberty Gas Group. crackling), or fuses blowing. Leaseholders page.

22 Issue 25 Autumn 2010 www.a1housing.co.uk competition winners Where’s Alfie? SUDOKUwinner Congratulations to Ragen Patterson Page 6 of the Autumn issue. I’m hiding again somewhere in this issue and $ just like the one below. When you have found me, write down the page number together with your name, Every issue we have £15 worth of High Street addaddressress andand a contactcontact ttelephoneelephone numbernumbber andandn $$$ ssendend it toto;; $#$$$ƒƒ A1 Housing Customerustomer ServicesServices TTeameam Carlton Forestt HHouse,ouse, Hundred Acre Lane,Lane, And the winner Worksop, S81 00TSTS Mr Douglas Kay from Worksop 0SFNBJMZPVSFOUSZUP who entered our Autumn DVTUPNFSTFSWJDFT!BIPVTJOHDPVL is... person to be drawn out of the hat. Sudoku 49 ENTER (674 YOUR CHANCE TO NOW! 45 WIN HIGH STREET 658 SHOPPING VOUCHERS! 84 (5 186 Each coloured block needs to make 45 72 Cut out your completed Sudoku puzzle and entry form and send it to: A1 Housing, Customer Services, Carlton 98 1 7 Forest House, Hundred Acre Lane, Worksop, Notts S81 0TS. 17 The deadline for all entries is |'`{|` Sudoku - Competition Entry Form correct entry drawn will Name ...... receive £15 worth of Address ...... High Street shopping ...... Postcode ...... vouchers. Telephone...... Email ......

For the latest information on A1 Housing visit www.a1housing.co.uk 23 IssueIssue 29 30 Autumn Winter 20112012 www.a1housing.co.uk How to contact us There are a number of ways you can contact us

%X Service and Contact By writing to us Centre #=} 5'Z5Z@(33„3 A1 Housing Bassetlaw Limited #}@ 5'Z5Z@((3+[ Carlton Forest House, Hundred Acre 0800 590542 #}] 5']]]]'(+5+ Lane, Worksop, Notts S81 0TS

_$$ £ Foreign language versions & #{|ŒŒŒŒ|ƒ˜™• 8$ If you need any help communicating with us or understanding #{|ŒŒŒŒ|ƒ`{| Retford any of our documents, please contact us on 5'Z5Z@(3@+5 #{|Š{Š‹ƒƒ|Œ‹ Mandarin

On-line Visit our website at www.a1housing.co.uk Email us at [email protected]

Urdu Text message TxT 07725 768444

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Punjabi By visiting us If you want to talk directly to a member of staff, you "@ arrange to visit you at your home or meet you at one of the council’s community houses if you prefer. ¡$ Polish an appointment. However, you may need to make an appointment if you want to see a particular member of staff. | Carlton Forest House, Hundred Acre Lane, We can arrange for a copy of this document in large print, Worksop, Notts S81 0TS audiotape, Braille or for a Language Line interpreter or 8|* translator to help you. 17B The Square, Retford, Notts DN22 6DB Our contact details: 8| Queens Buildings, Potter Street, Worksop, 01909 534520 Notts S80 2AH e-mail: [email protected]

Issue 30 Winter 2012 www.a1housing.co.uk