WINTER 2017 Winter 2017 inView 1

inBournville VillageView Trust’s quarterly resident newsletter

BookFest back for Universal Credit – a Council behind village’s Picture from the Past - fifth year in a row must read update most popular events special story needs you

Inside Page 3 Page 5 Page 7 Page 10 There is still time to update your details with us Residents in and Telford are being reminded that there is still time to update their details as part of our Getting to Know You campaign.

aunched earlier this Jess Allan, Community If you’re a current BVT year, the campaign Development Manager at tenant or BVT homeowner Lhas seen hundreds of BVT, said: “We would like and haven’t already updated BVT residents fill in basic to thank everyone who your details with us, please details about themselves has already updated their visit our website bvt.org.uk/ and their household. details with us, either at your-bvt/updating-your- Father Christmas at Selly Manor Museum’s craft fair and grotto This has included one of our events over the details or one of our offices communication summer or online through to complete a paper form. preferences, like whether our website. The campaign does not Ho Ho Ho-oray! you prefer for us to write “The response has been involve the disclosure of or email you, contact great so far and the more personal financial details details and who lives in information we have, the (such as bank or rental Celebrations mark your home. easier it is for us to paint a account information) Over the summer, we picture of the communities and is limited to details start of festivities held a series of self-portrait we serve, tailor our services about the make-up of events in Birmingham effectively and contact you your household. Christmas has arrived music, street food and where you could take your appropriately. BVT staff will always to BVT communities in the traditional Christmas own photograph and share “All questions are identify themselves Birmingham and Telford, lights-switch on. your information with us. voluntary, so if you don’t when they call you, but with residents enjoying a Selly Manor Museum In Telford, families want to give us this if you have any doubts festive bonanza of fun. also held its annual craft were invited to update information, you don’t about the identity of the Special events have fair and grotto. their details at summer have to. All we ask is that person seeking details been held in , In Lightmoor a events in Lightmoor and you tick the ‘prefer not to from you, please call us Lightmoor and Lawley beautiful Christmas event Lawley villages. say’ box.” on 0300 333 6540. villages throughout with fireworks is set to December to celebrate be held in the village the start of Christmas. centre and in Lawley a Christmas office opening hours In Bournville, scores fun-filled celebration of residents turned out took place at the village’s Our offices in Birmingham and Telford will close for Christmas from Friday 22nd for the village’s first ever Primary Academy on December, re-opening on Tuesday 2nd January 2018 at 8.30am. Christmas Festival, opened 2nd December. If you have an emergency enquiry during this time, such as an emergency repair by Duncan Cadbury. For upcoming or anti-social behaviour matter, please continue to call us on 0300 333 6540 to Organised by a host events and activities in access our out-of-hours service. of different partners, it Birmingham and Telford, We expect to be busier than usual when we re-open therefore, for non- included lantern making, please turn to page 11 of emergency/non-repair enquiries, please email us at [email protected] Christmas crafts, live this newsletter.

0300 333 6540 [email protected] bvt.org.uk bvtnews bournville village trust 2 inView WINTER 2017 MESSAGE FROM THE A word from the EDITOR Chief Executive Hello and welcome Over 100 people have to the winter issue attended the sessions t has been a great honour to serve as of inView magazine, and received support BVT’s Chief Executive over the last and the last that has made a huge I16 years and I have been fortunate, newsletter of 2017. difference to their lives. over that time, to have worked alongside In preparation for this The Big Tidy Up some great people. issue, I decided to take a events saw staff and Having served for 14 years prior to that look back on all that we residents volunteer to as Chief Executive of Mercian Housing have covered in inView plant bulbs, litter pick Association and for six years before that over the last year. and clear away rubbish, in the voluntary housing sector, I find that In spring, we shared with great feedback some 36 years have flown past. information about new from those who ways to get involved witnessed their work. I am proud to have been involved with what we do and The one thing that all of in meeting peoples’ housing needs, influence decisions, and these examples have in providing a range of care and support free digital workshops common is the benefits services and creating flourishing to improve your of getting involved with communities where people choose computers skills. what we do. As 2018 to live. We told you about a approaches, why not new toolkit, developed make your New Year’s However, I know the time is coming with help from resolution to give one of to pass on the baton to a successor residents, to guide you the many opportunities and therefore, with a heavy heart, I through anti-social we promote a go? have announced that I will be retiring in behaviour issues, and If you have any spring 2018. there were articles feedback on this issue, I shall look back over my 16 years at about estate dates or a story to share, do BVT with particular fondness. I have Enjoy the latest issue of inView and and pop-up events get in touch by emailing been fortunate to work for a special where you could share [email protected]. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a organisation, interpreting George happy New Year. concerns about where uk or calling me on 0300 Cadbury’s vision to make sure BVT you live. There was also 333 6540. continues to achieve its mission today. Peter Roach information about the Happy reading and Big Tidy Up and how to Merry Christmas. It has been a great privilege to meet get involved. so many of you over the last 16 years, It left me thinking what whether at events like Lightmoor’s a busy year it’s been but shop opening and the Big Tidy Up to also how much has been working with resident representatives on achieved, by you and committees and panels. colleagues at BVT. Take the digital I look forward to continuing to work workshops, which you with many of you up until my retirement. can read more about In the meantime, I assure you of my on page 4, for example. ongoing commitment until the moment I bid farewell. MAILBAG Dear Editor, Dear Editor, The newsletter looks good to me with broad coverage of I would like to give recognition to John Warburton who is a top topics, without duplication, and an emphasis on people; happy plumber within BVT. residents and happy staff. He has done such sterling work through the years and My only criticism is the small white text on a few of the whenever he has undertaken any job at my home he has given photographs, it is never an easy read. Otherwise terrific. l00 per cent hard graft. Mr Roy Stove He first started his trade at BVT in 1972, so has given 45 years Bournville of service. I would be so happy for him to see his name published in the magazine, he truly deserves to be commended as far as I Response from editor - Thank you for your feedback Roy and am concerned. we’re glad to hear you enjoy reading inView. In the future, we will Mrs Kathleen Doyle make sure all photographs are captioned clearly. Bournville WINTER 2017 inView 3 News in brief Bournville BookFest back for fifth year

Bournville BookFest marks its fifth birthday next year and some of the biggest names in children’s literature are coming to Birmingham to celebrate. The BookFest will take place from 15th-25th March 2018 and the festival programme will Woodbrooke which has recently been refurbished be available from the new BookFest website bournvillebookfest.com from mid-January. Former Cadbury home You can also pick up a copy of the The toolkit is available on the BVT website programme at Bournville Community Hub on “We would urge neighbours to try and gets refurb Sycamore Road. communicate with each other first to resolve Started in 2013, the BookFest has grown issues, as this can be the quickest and most A learning and conference centre that in size, scale and ambition each year. Busy responsive way to a lasting resolution.” was once home to George Cadbury has Parents Network run the event, which is Have you used the toolkit? Give us your been refurbished. about inspiring children with a love of books feedback on it on our website at bvt.org.uk/ Woodbrooke has three new bedrooms and and creating very special memories. your-bvt/give-us-your-feedback-form two fully refurbished ground floor meeting

rooms, with further improvements planned for 2018. The centre, off the Bristol Road South, offers a diverse educational course programme and conference spaces. For further information, visit woodbrooke.org.uk

Read all about it - annual report out now

The latest BVT annual report, featuring self- Quadrangle Manager Kathy Knight portraits taken by residents over the summer, is out now. Available to read on our website at bvt.org. Residents urged to uk/publications/ourbusiness, it details what join waiting list for we’ve achieved this year and what we plan to do in the future. bungalows It also includes information on how we have performed, including how satisfied Residents aged over 60 who are considering you are with our services, and our income moving home are being encouraged and expenditure. to register to join the waiting list for Children enjoying a story-telling session at Bournville’s almhouses. If you would prefer a paper copy of the Bournville BookFest report, please email our Customer Services Also known as the Quadrangle, the team at [email protected] almhouses are made up of 33 bungalows, set in beautiful grounds, on the corner of Linden Anti-social behaviour Road and Mary Vale Road. Often considered to be exclusively for Come dine with Santa toolkit viewed over former Cadbury workers, the homes are this December 600 times available for single people or couples from all backgrounds. Families in Lawley and Lightmoor are being A new online toolkit to help BVT residents To find out more about living at the invited to dine with Father Christmas on affected by anti-social behaviour (ASB) Quadrangle, either for yourself or a member 20th December. has been viewed over 600 times since it of your family, please call Kathy Knight, In Lawley, families can join Santa for was launched. Scheme Manager, on 0121 458 1293. breakfast and biscuit decorating at the Lawley The kit, where you can access information, Community Centre from 10am-11.30am. advice and report ASB, can be found at bvt. In Lightmoor, Father Christmas is inviting org.uk/your-bvt/report-asb families for afternoon tea and biscuit Arthur Tsang, Head of Housing Services at decorating from either 2pm-3pm or 3.30pm- BVT, said: “The toolkit has been designed 4.30pm at the Oak Tree Centre. to help residents deal with low level ASB Both events cost £2 per child and £1 incidents and concerns at any time of the day. per adult. To book a place on either “If residents still require advice, or would event, please call the Community team like to make a formal complaint after using it, in Telford on 01952 898524 or email they can fill in the online form and submit it Bungalows at the scheme [email protected] to our ASB team. 4 inView WINTER 2017 ‘A year ago I didn’t know how to turn a computer on’ Digital workshops change resident’s life

year ago the thought make it easier to do day-to- of digital technology day activities and improve their Awas something that communication with us.” BVT resident Val Smith found For 80-year-old Val this is very terrifying. much the case. All that changed though when “The most useful aspect was she signed up to free digital finding out how to use email,” workshops, which we’ve been said Val. “I can now keep running throughout the year. in touch regularly with my Val, said: “A year ago I didn’t brother and his family who live know how to turn a computer in New Zealand.” on, learning about technology is If you’d like support to improve important for my age group but your digital skills, come along also very terrifying. to a digital drop-in at Shenley “With the support of very Court Hall, Green Meadow Road, friendly professionals, who Val Smith says the workshops have helped her face her fears every Tuesday during term time gave me time to learn at my through the workshops and has helped them enjoy all the from 10am-12pm. own pace, I feel I’ve faced weekly digital drop-in sessions. benefits that digital technology Live in Telford and need help? my fears and overcome Carole Lowe, Community can add to their lives, whatever We hold regular digital drop- challenges.” Development Assistant at BVT, their age. ins at the Oak Tree Centre in Over 100 residents have said: “Supporting residents to “Being online can reduce social Lightmoor. For details, call improved their online skills get online and learn new skills isolation, help people find work, 01952 293 777. Spotlight on loan sharks and scams as reports rise We can all find ourselves in Arthur Tsang, Head of financial difficulty at some Housing at BVT, said: “These point in our lives, making us calls will always be unsolicited more vulnerable to individuals and it’s important to stay alert or groups who may try to take to what you’re being asked. advantage of this. “Never disclose full According to Age UK, five passwords, banking codes or million older people have been four-digit pins for cards as no targeted by scammers and one organisation will ever ask for in ten have responded to a these. Unless you’re sure who fraud attempt. you’re talking to, never give out It’s important to be aware and your personal details.” alert to this and know where If you find yourself in financial to go if you find yourself in difficulty or targeted by a scam, financial trouble. there is help out there. Visit Loan sharks are illegal moneyadviceservice.org.uk lenders who target low where you can find alternatives income families who are Scammers may target you over the phone to borrowing from loan sharks struggling financially. While and advice on keeping your they may appear to be helping, pay back can keep on rising you may never clear the debt details safe. borrowing from loan sharks • While friendly to begin with, you owe. If you’re concerned about can cause you more problems. loan sharks can become Telephone scammers are borrowing from a loan shark, or Risks include: threatening if you’re unable to often very convincing and believe you’ve been scammed, • Extremely high interest pay what they ask regardless fraudsters will find cunning you can also contact the rates, sometimes as much as of your circumstances ways to trick you into giving Illegal Money Lending team at 719,000%, and because they’re • You can get trapped in a over your bank or personal stoploansharks.co.uk or call us not regulated the amount you spiral of borrowing, meaning details which they’ll then use. on 0300 333 6540. WINTER 2017 inView 5 Meet the Team I’m assisted by Nicola. Between us, we have years’ of experience in helping residents to manage their rent accounts and household budgets, as well as knowledge of benefits and support services.

3: How can you help me as a BVT resident? We can help you to make a claim for Housing Benefit, report changes in your circumstances and apply for extra benefits. If you’re really struggling, we can also arrange The Income team can help you manage your rent account and budget. food parcels or gas/electric vouchers through the Council. and they didn’t qualify for any 5: What do you enjoy most about We assess all prospective additional benefits. your work? Ella, Income Officer, at BVT. residents’ budgets and offer the We managed to get £85 a The bit we enjoy the most is support you need to live in and week to cover their rent through seeing people happy and settled in 1: What do your team do? afford a home with us. Part of the Council’s Discretionary their homes, dealing successfully We’re the Income team in this can be referring residents to Housing Payment scheme and with any financial issues. Often Telford and we help residents support, like debt advice. successfully applied to Severn it’s just having someone to talk to manage their rent accounts. We Trent’s Big Difference scheme, that makes all the difference to can assist you if you’re struggling 4: How have you helped reducing their water bill from residents and that’s a really great to pay your rent or service charge tenants recently? £30 to £2.80 a month. part of our job. and give you information on a We worked with a couple in The support they received from range of financial matters their late 50s. Mr A had retired us has made a huge difference 6: How can I contact you? from work early to care for his and helped them focus on their You can call us on 01952 293 2: Who is in the team? wife. Their only income was £900 health issues without worrying 777 or visit us at our office at I’m Ella, Income Officer, and a month from a private pension about bills. Cherry Tree House in Lightmoor. Universal Credit – a must read update

Universal Credit full service Credit include, but aren’t was rolled out in Birmingham limited, to: in November and in Telford the • Moving to Birmingham from full service will start from July another local authority which next year. isn’t part of the Universal In Birmingham, we’re starting Credit full service to see an increase in residents • Losing your job and having to claiming this new-style benefit and claim benefit we’ve had queries asking us when • Becoming too ill to work and or if you’ll have to make a claim. having to claim benefit To help answer your • Changing your working questions, Stephanie Weaver, contract, such as increasing Welfare Reform Officer in your hours, and having to Birmingham, explains more. make a new claim for Working Tax Credit. Are you a family with three New claims for Universal or more children or have you Credit have to be made online at reached state retirement age? gov.uk/apply-universal-credit. If the answer to either of these Universal Credit is rolling six benefits into one If you need help with this, you questions is yes, you won’t be can contact the Government’s able to make a claim for Universal Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), In addition to this, if there’s a helpline on 0345 600 0723. Credit yet. There will be no income-related Employment change in your circumstances If you have general questions immediate change to your benefits. and Support Allowance (ESA) or that triggers a change in your or concerns about the change Working Tax Credit? benefit entitlement, you may or are struggling financially, Are you working age and need If this applies to you, you’ll have to claim Universal Credit please contact Stephanie to make a new claim for any of not be able to claim any of instead of your current benefits. Weaver in Birmingham on the following benefits, Child these benefits and instead you’ll Examples of changes in your 0300 333 6540 or if you live in Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, automatically have to make a circumstances that could trigger Telford, please call our Income Income Support, income-based claim for Universal Credit. you having to claim Universal team on 01952 293 777. 6 inView WINTER 2017 From mouse-catcher to renowned micro-engraver

f you’d told a 15-year-old Graham Short and Scotland, have turned up and a fifth was he’d end up rubbing shoulders with the donated to the Jane Austen Centre. Istars thanks to his expertise in engraving The project received huge coverage the smallest of objects, he probably wouldn’t in the press and Graham’s acclaimed have believed you. miniature art work has led to him meeting For Graham, who has lived in Bournville celebrities like Stephen Fry and illusionist for the past 14 years, recalls the start of Uri Geller. his career as an engraver was much less Having engraved everything from pens and glamorous. pins to notes and nails, where does the future “I started as an apprentice at a factory in lie for Graham? Bordesley Green and one of my first jobs was “I’m not finished yet,” said Graham. “I have to empty the mouse-traps each morning and more plans for exciting projects in the future make the tea,” said Graham. and as they say practice makes perfect.” “I and the other apprentices used to hold Have you got a story to share with competitions when we weren’t working to readers? Contact Editor Claire Morrall by see who could engrave the smallest and I emailing [email protected] or call suppose that’s where it all began.” 0300 333 6540. After finishing his six-year apprenticeship, Graham went on to establish a successful career as an engraver working with brands such as Harrods and Fortnum & Mason. It wasn’t until the 1970s though that he turned his hand to micro-engraving again, starting with inscribing the Lord’s Prayer on the head of a nail. It took him 40 years on and off to achieve the perfect nail and from there other projects followed, most noticeably the new Graham Short with a new £5 note £5 note project. Last year, the 71-year-old etched Jane style treasure hunt. Austen’s face into the transparent part of four Three of the four £5 notes, which Graham notes, sending the nation into a Willy Wonka- spent in , Wales, Northern Ireland The Lord’s Prayer on a 5 inch steel nail

In this newsletter, we’ll tell you how we’re improving Staying well our services in response to your feedback. this winter There are lots of things we can do to prepare for the You colder months, including making sure we’re ready to ward off winter illnesses. According to NHS England, and Public Health said we You said: “We want England, the cold weather can be very harmful, more opportunities especially for people aged 65 or over. to meet with staff Here are some things they say can help you out of hours.” prepare against the cold: did 1: At the first sign of a cough or cold, get advice from your pharmacist before it gets more serious. 2: Pick up prescription medications before the Christmas holidays start as many GPs and pharmacies will close. 3: Heat your home to at least 18°C (65°F), if you can. You might prefer your living room to be slightly warmer. 4: If you need help over the holiday period when your GP surgery or pharmacy is closed, call NHS We did: We have introduced regular pop-up events and estate dates in the evening in 111 or visit nhs.uk Lightmoor and Lawley villages. Over the last three months we have also been trialling For more information about staying well this pop-up events in Bournville, which offered you the chance to feedback to staff estate- winter and further advice, visit nhs.uk/ staywell related issues and concerns. For dates of the regular pop-up events in Lightmoor and Lawley, please visit lightmoorvillage.org.uk or bvtlawleyvillage.org.uk WINTER 2017 inView 7 Council behind village’s most popular events needs you!

ournville Village Council, a voluntary group of residents which organise some Bof the village’s most popular events and more, is looking for new members. Council member and mother-of-four Sarah Bennett explains why she joined the Council and the difference it’s made to her life.

What made you want to join the Council? Quite simply, I love Bournville. I live and work in the village and feel proud to be part of its amazing heritage.

What do you enjoy most about being a part of the Council? The Council organise the annual Bournville Village Festival, including the traditional Maypole dance. We also organise the light switch on at the famous Bournville Christmas tree on the Green. Not only is it my favourite moment of the year, as I’m Christmas crazy, but the tree is also one of my earliest The popular Bournville Festival which is organised by the Council childhood memories. area and who would like to Old photos and films of What are you most proud of achieving? keep traditions alive, but the Bournville Festival and The Council’s made up of a small group of also bring fresh ideas to the other Council-activities volunteers and somehow we pull together table. I’d really like to see will be on display, there two great annual events and also run Dame those who enjoy the events will be a light buffet and Elizabeth Hall. The Hall is a community facility and like getting involved in the chance to chat to which is used by many groups and societies, the community to bring their Council members. it’s a really important part of our community. ideas. We are serious about The Council is also what we do, but we have a lot recruiting for a Treasurer and What have you taken away personally from of fun, especially at Christmas, Secretary. If you have the being a member? so if this sounds like you right expertise, they’d really I’ve met some lovely people who are really please join us. like to hear from you. Visit passionate about Bournville. The Council has bournvillevillagecouncil.org. residents at its heart. However, we are largely To find out more about uk for more information. unheard of and can be confused with BVT and joining Bournville Village At the meeting, you’ll I’d like to change that. Council, come along to the also have the opportunity Council’s Annual Public to vote for your two Estate What would you say to people thinking Meeting on Sunday 21st Management Scheme about joining? January from 3pm–5pm at Committee representatives. I know there are Bournville residents who Dame Elizabeth Hall, Firbank Sarah Bennett who joined For details, please turn to are as proud as me to live and work in the Close, off Oak Tree Lane. Bournville Village Council last year page 9. Safeguarding – what it means and how you can help

From time-to-time you may hear people use sensitively with a focus on getting it right for the term safeguarding when talking about the person concerned. children or vulnerable people, but what does If you suspect someone is being abused it mean and what can you do about it? and live in Birmingham, please contact In broad terms, safeguarding is about the Adults & Communities Access Point protecting vulnerable adults, such as people (ACAP) on 0121 303 1234 or email ACAP@ with physical / mental health concerns or birmingham.gov.uk If you live in Telford, call frail older people, and children from abuse ACAP on 01952 459 252. or neglect. If you have concerns about a child or Abuse can range from financial abuse, such young person in Birmingham, call the as withholding money, to physical neglect. Multi-Agency Safeguarding HUB (MASH) Safeguarding isn’t the responsibility of one Older people can be vulnerable to neglect on 0121 303 1888 or email MASH@ organisation or person, it’s about everyone If you suspect someone is being abused, birmingham.gov.uk working together to protect the most you shouldn’t be afraid about raising your In an emergency you should always call vulnerable in society from abuse. concerns. All concerns are responded to the Police. 8 inView WINTER 2017 Asbestos – separating the facts from fiction

Asbestos is a natural mineral To meet legislation, we’ve found in rocks all over the carried out a survey of all world and its strong and flexible communal areas in our rented fibres led to it being used homes. All void and major commercially for over 150 years. planned modernisation work, But why can it be a problem, to the homes we manage, also where can it be found and includes an asbestos survey. what is BVT doing in regard to If a survey shows asbestos in materials containing asbestos in a home is unsafe, or that it’ll be your home? affected by work that we’ll be doing, it will be removed by a Why can asbestos be a problem? specialist contractor. When materials containing asbestos age or become What are my responsibilities as damaged they can release fibres a tenant? into the air. If they’re breathed If you’re planning to carry in they can travel into the lungs out any work that may disturb where they have the potential to material that you suspect cause harm. contains asbestos, please contact It is unlikely any products us first. We will check our containing asbestos in the home existing records or commission a will pose a risk or be harmful if specialist inspection. they’re in good condition. Asbestos can be found in corrugated roofing sheets on sheds and garages Remember DIY work that However, DIY, such as drilling, damages materials containing scrubbing or sanding, can result banned in most new products the home include floor tiles, asbestos can result in short but in exposure and if you suspect a in the UK. It’s not possible to textured coatings on ceilings / high levels of exposure. If you material may contain asbestos tell whether a product contains walls and corrugated roofing have any materials in your home don’t work on it. asbestos just by looking at it. sheets for sheds and garages. that you suspect may contain There were many uses for asbestos and are damaged, Where is asbestos? asbestos but some examples What is BVT doing about please contact us by calling Since 1993 asbestos was of where it can be found in asbestos? 0300 333 6540. Families move into new homes in Lightmoor

The first of 200 new family homes on to homeowners and four are affordable the latest phase of Lightmoor are now homes for social rent managed by BVT. complete. Once complete, we will manage a A total of 22 homes have been finished total of 50 affordable homes, all for rent, on the Paddocks site, which lies on land on the Paddocks site and there are also (L-R) Richard Ellis (Associate Architect at Stride Treglown), Peter Roach north of the village. plans for a Village Green and a children’s (Chief Executive of BVT) and Hitesh Champaneri (Development Manager Of the 22 homes, 18 have been sold play area. at BVT) at the demolition of the former home for overseas students Planning application now in for new homes A planning application to develop 16 new affordable homes for rent which will be managed by BVT has been submitted. We took possession of the ‘Gemeindehaus’ block in Selly Oak in August. Previously a home for overseas students, the building was also a place of worship for a German Lutheran congregation. An application to build the two-bedroom houses has now been submitted to the City Council. If given the A computer-generated image of the Paddocks green light, main building work is anticipated for spring. WINTER 2017 inView 9 Passionate about protecting open spaces? This committee could be for you

committee that plays a vital role For Shenley: in helping to maintain and protect To put yourself forward for Shenley, you’ll Aopen spaces across the BVT estate in need to complete a nomination form which Birmingham is recruiting for new resident can be downloaded from our website bvt. representatives. org.uk or collected from our head office, The Estates Management and Scheme Shenley Court Hall, or St. David’s Church. Committee (EMSC), which includes trustees Once you’ve completed the form, and BVT staff, is looking for nominations for please email it to communityadmin@bvt. three new resident representatives. org.uk or hand it into our head office by Friday 5th January. So what do the EMSC do? Elections will run from 8th January to EMSC play an important role in maintaining One of the many beautiful open spaces in Bournville Monday 29th January and you’ll be able the visual appearance and amenity of the BVT to vote for your chosen candidate via our estate. This can include giving feedback on for one representative from the Shenley area website or by visiting our office, Shenley policies, considering issues relating to the and two for the Bournville area. Court Hall or St David’s Church. management charge and listening to appeals The nominated candidates for both about applications for alterations to homes. It For Bournville: areas will be publicised on noticeboards / meets four times a year during office hours. To put yourself forward, you’ll need to community spaces from Monday 8th January. complete a nomination form which can What is the role of a resident representative? be downloaded from Bournville Village The role of a resident representative is Council’s website bournvillevillagecouncil. ‘I’ve valued the chance really important as you’ll help to influence org.uk or collected from our head office and discuss important issues about estate at 350 Bournville Lane, Rowheath Pavilion, to contribute’ management. You’ll represent your area, Bournville Community Hub or St Francis Resident representative Sharon Yeomans, be it Shenley, Weoley or Bournville and Church & Centre. who represents Weoley, explains how she’s residents. Most of all you’ll have the chance Once you’ve completed the form, please benefitted from joining the Committee. to make a difference on behalf of the send it to: Chair of Bournville Village Council, “Over the last five and a half years, I’ve residents you’re representing. 28 Blackthorn Close, Bournville, B30 1SB or email it to EMSC@bournvillevillagecouncil. valued the opportunity to contribute to meetings. I’ve also enjoyed meeting Who can be a representative? org.uk by Friday 5th January. residents, trustees and BVT officers who You must be aged over 18, live in a Elections will be run by Bournville Village I may not have met otherwise. This has designated area and not be a BVT employee. Council and held by secret ballot at their Annual Public Meeting on 21st January. all gone hand-in-hand with our goal to preserve the look and use of the area How can I join the Committee? You can read more about this meeting on we treasure.” We’re currently looking for nominations page 7. Change to policy on driveway alterations The policy on making changes to on driveways is clear, we’ve boundary between yours’ and a driveways on the BVT estate in amended it and now have a two neighbours’ driveway. Birmingham has been updated. thirds and one third policy. In this case, a hedge or shrub Previously, residents have “This means homes will only bed should be introduced to been asked to retain as much be able to convert no more create a boundary to avoid soft landscaping, like trees than two thirds of the frontage a continuous area of hard and grass, as possible when into hardstanding / driveway. standing between homes. changing their driveway. The remaining one third should If you live in Birmingham and To make the policy be grassed, shrubbed or a would like to make a change to clearer, it now explains the flower bed put in with a soil your driveway, please consult exact ratio of soft and hard bed, rather than gravel or other the Bournville Design Guide landscaping required. hard material. on our website bvt.org.uk/ Richard Hughes, Estate “We appreciate that some publications/bournville-estate- Manager at BVT, said: “The homes have significantly large design-guide leafy, green environment of frontages, in which case we will Please note, you must get Bournville is what sets it apart discuss this with you.” permission from us before and is what residents tell us is The updated policy has also making any change to your important to them. introduced new guidance on driveway or home, even if it The Bournville Design Guide can be “To make sure our policy driveways where there is no complies with our Guide. found on our website 10 inView WINTER 2017

Museum launches new website Selly Manor Museum, which welcomes over 18,000 visitors each year, has a brand new website. The website, which launched in November, tells you everything you need to know about visiting the Museum, from how to book tickets to opening times. It also has an easy to navigate events calendar and an online enquiry form to get in touch with the Museum at the click of a button. If you’re interested in booking a trip as part of an adult group, there is also information on what the Museum offers and how to book. Made up of two distinct and beautiful buildings, the Museum lies at the heart of Bournville and has a surprising history. Selly Manor dates from medieval times and its intriguing past includes an Italian wine merchant, a Picture postcard of Raddlebarn Road showing number 14 where the Haywood family have lived for generations burglar and a world famous chocolate maker. Originally called ‘Smyths Tenement’, it was a prosperous house until 1695 when it had a new owner and its slow decline began. By the end of the 19th century, it was divided into Picture from the three dwellings known as ‘The Rookery’ and then it fell into disuse. With an uncertain future, George Cadbury, founder of Bournville, saved the building and arranged its past - special issue move from nearby Selly Oak into his new village where it stands today. Since then Selly Manor Museum has welcomed thousands of visitors and schools, giving people of his picture postcard shows garden in the middle of the night to all ages the chance to immerse themselves in the Raddlebarn Road in around 1913 answer the call of nature. Museum’s, and Bournville’s, history. Tand has been shared by BVT BVT installed a bathroom in the old To view the new website, visit sellymanormuseum. resident Graham Fones. scullery in the 1960s, another luxurious org.uk In the image, you can just make out improvement. number 14 Raddlebarn Road which has No.14 also had a long garden, provided been home to the Haywood family for the so that the Cadbury workers would have past 116 years. space to grow much needed vegetables Here Jenny Millward, whose uncle John to supplement their diet. In later years, Haywood, recently moved out of the John would fill the space with dahlias, property shares her family’s story. marigolds and roses. “There have been Haywoods living at 14 All of the girls in the family worked at Raddlebarn Road, or Raddlebarn Lane as Cadbury from leaving school at 14. Most it was originally known, since the house of their income, around 11 shillings (55p was built. The 1901 census shows that in today’s money), went towards the Thomas Haywood was living there with house’s upkeep. his wife and large family. John, having served as an auxiliary Staff at Selly Manor Museum which has a brand new website. Later his son, George, took over the nurse in the War, continued his nursing tenancy and with his wife, Mabel, they career - later specialising in geriatric produced five children. The fourth nursing before his retirement in 1988. of these, John George, continued to Over the course of the last 120 Top cooking tips - mince live here until earlier this year when years this small house with its single pie mincemeat owing to failing health, he moved into a family occupancy has seen much residential home. laughter, inevitably some sad times Want to make your mince pies really special this Growing up in the pre-World War II and many changes. year by customising your mincemeat? era had its challenges. Not only was this One thing which has remained 1: Buy a jar of basic mincemeat from the supermarket. modest three-bedroom house home steadfast is the wonderful sense 2: Add your choice of extras: quartered glace cherries, to the growing family of five with their of community spirit in this part of chopped nuts, a diced eating apple, unwaxed parents but Granny Haywood, fortunately Raddlebarn Road, as in many other parts lemon or orange zest, extra raisins, currants or a lady of small stature, also curled up of Bournville. sultanas, dried apricots or chopped dates. each night on a small sofa downstairs. John has been blessed with several 3: Optional – add a couple of glugs of brandy, whisky, The children were fascinated when in good neighbours, who helped to support port or sherry. Add whatever you or your family the early 1930s the old gas lamps were his independent living in the house he would like. replaced with electricity and gleefully was born in and has loved so dearly. 4: Then make your mince pies as usual. flicked the new light switches on and off. John’s nephews and nieces thank them This mincemeat must be covered and kept in the It was quite common then for the tin wholeheartedly and we wish the future fridge and preferably used within two or three days. bath to hang on the back of the kitchen tenants of no.14 much happiness.” Happy Christmas. door with shared bathing water once a Do you have a picture, or story from the Recipe by S Hynds – member of the BVT week for the children. This also meant past, to share in this newsletter? Email Communications Forum an outside loo and the children would Editor Claire Morrall clairemorrall@bvt. run, scared and shivering, into the back org.uk or call her on 0300 333 6540. WINTER 2017 inView 11

What’s on – Calendar of Events The latest events happening across Birmingham and Shropshire. December: Thursday 14th December January: (until 23rd December): European Christmas Market, Thursday 11th January Southwater, Telford. Open seven days (until 12th March): a week and organised by Telford & The Past is Now: Birmingham and the Wrekin Council. 10am-7pm (Sun- British Empire exhibition, Birmingham Weds) and 10am-9pm (Thurs-Sat). Museum and Art Gallery, . 10am-5pm (Mon-Thurs), Tuesday 19th December 10.30am-5pm (Fri) and 10am-5pm (until 28th January): (Sat-Sun). Free. Cinderella (pantomime), , Hurst Street, Birmingham. For prices and to book, visit birminghamhippodrome.com

Friday 8th December: Lightmoor Christmas Celebration (annual Christmas celebration with craft market, traditional fair rides, Tuesday 16th January (and the third refreshments and a festive firework Wednesday 20th December: Tuesday of each month): display), Lightmoor Village Centre. 5pm- Breakfast with Santa, Oak Tree Bournville Knitting Club, Dame 8pm. For more information, please call Community Centre, Lightmoor, Elizabeth Hall, Firbank Close, BVT’s Community team on 01952 898 Telford. 10.30am-12pm. For more off Oak Tree Lane, Bournville. 524 or email [email protected] information, and to book your place, 6.45pm-9.15pm please call BVT’s Community team Saturday 9th December: on 01952 898 524 or email events@ Monday 22nd January: Christmas Gift Market, Grotto and bvt.org.uk Tap dancing, Shenley Court Hall, 200 more, Rowheath Pavilion, Heath Road, Green Meadow Road, Selly Oak, B29 Bournville. Please contact venue direct Wednesday 20th December: 4ED. 1:45pm – 2:45pm. Please call the for further details. Afternoon tea with Santa, Lawley Hall on 0121 475 7521 to check activity Academy, Lawley, Telford. 2pm- availability in advance. Tuesday 12th December and every 4pm. For more information, and to Tuesday during term-time: book your place, please call BVT’s Digital drop-in session (free Community team on 01952 898 524 or February: advice and support on digital and email [email protected] online technology), Shenley Court Wednesday 7th February: Hall, 200 Green Meadow Rd, Bournville Society Talk with John Birmingham, B29 4ED. 10am-12pm. Williams (offering an insightful talk Please note that sessions re-start in on his cameraman career at Pebble 2018 on 9th January. Mill studios), Dame Elizabeth Hall, Firbank Close, off Oak Tree Lane, Bournville. From 7.30pm. For details, please contact Secretary Rosemary Shutt on 0121 458 2547 or email [email protected] Saturday 24th December: Carols on the Green (traditional carol Sunday 4th February: service organised by local churches Mozart’s Women (classical concert), and Bournville Village Council), Symphony Hall, Birmingham. For times Bournville Village Green, Bournville, and ticket information, please visit Birmingham. From 6pm. thsh.co.uk/whats-on

*Please note that BVT do not endorse any events, services or activities provided by third parties and published in this newsletter. Please contact venues/organisations direct for details* For the latest events and activities for where you live, visit our Facebook page. 12 inView WINTER 2017 QUIZ To be in with the chance of winning a £20 Love to Shop voucher, which can be redeemed at over 130 leading stores, complete the Quiz and return your answers to: Bournville Village Trust, C/O Claire Morrall, 350 Bournville Lane, Bournville, Birmingham, B30 1QY or email [email protected] –with subject header ‘Quiz’ by Monday 29th January 2018. All correct entries will be placed into a prize draw with one winner chosen at random.

1: Cannellini, pinto and lima are all types of what food?

2: ‘Esio Trot’ and ‘Danny - the champion of the world’ are titles by which children’s author?

3: In which German city would you find Nymphenburg Palace and the Englischer Garten?

4: Mandrill and tamarin are species of what animal?

5: Which musician had a number 1 hit in 1999 with the song ‘Livin’ La Vida Loca’?

6: Anne Robinson, John Stapleton and Nicky Campbell have all presented which BBC TV programme with the slogan ‘the programme you cannot afford to miss?’

7: Which racecourse hosts the Grand National each year?

8: Which actress will return to play Rey in Star Wars: The Last Jedi when it’s released this December?

9: Identify the missing name in the following sequence – Cherie…Sarah…Samantha…?

10: You’ll find the answer to the next question in this newsletter… When will Bournville Village Council’s annual public meeting take place?

Name

Address

Email Tel

C O Y H E B I S T A C T W M X Wordsearch E H P R N C S N A Q I L Y R B L H R U F U C O Y N Y L F Y L To be in with the chance of winning a £20 Love A Q L I V S E W S E L U A L F to Shop voucher, which can be redeemed at over 130 leading stores, complete the wordsearch P F E D S J T E J L L K I R B and return to: Bournville Village Trust, C/O Z V L C V T L A U R O T Z X M Claire Morrall, 350 Bournville Lane, Bournville, Birmingham, B30 1QY by Monday 29th January E H V G C Q M O R E H J I N H 2018. All correct entries will be placed into a prize B T B K Q L X A O I J T S I A draw with one winner chosen at random. E L B U A B T L S N Y R T B B 1: Christmas 7: Holly Y E J H K N F L E D Z N D C M 2: Tree 8: Turkey O E R P A U I O U E X E O E T 3: Tinsel 9: Eve Q J K S N T U R M E L I O R M 4: Star 10: Reindeer P A A R V Z T B E R T I Y S Q 5: Bauble 11: Santa M J A E U R T I A X W X S V O 6: Snow 12: Elf V I B T W T W U R T T R E E M

If you require the information in this newsletter in a different language, large print or braille, please call 0300 333 6540 or email [email protected]

350 Bournville Lane, Bournville, Birmingham, B30 1QY Cherry Tree House, 1 Lightmoor Way, Lightmoor Village, Telford, TF4 3TX