Sheltered Times News and Views for Sheltered Housing residents
ISSUE 4: Spring 2015
Celebrating anniversaries 2015 is a year of special anniversaries, with many of them being celebrated at events across Havering. ANZAC Day Saturday 25 April sees a memorial service at St Andrew’s Church, High Street, Hornchurch from 4pm to mark the 100th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli, of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC). In January 1916 Grey Towers in Hornchurch was the first depot for the New Zealand contingent. VE Day A national two-minute silence at 3pm on Friday 8 May starts a weekend of events to celebrate the 70th anniversary of VE Day. On Saturday 9 May there will be a special VE concert, broadcast live on the BBC, and on Sunday 10 May people are being encouraged to hold picnics or street parties. Reigning record On Wednesday 9 September HM Queen Elizabeth II will become the longest reigning monarch, passing the record set by Queen Victoria. More information: www.havering.gov.uk/events www.havering.gov.uk/WW1
The General Election is on Thursday 7 May and if you want to vote in that election you must be on the electoral register. The deadline to apply is Monday 20 April. Voting by post Voting by post can be easier than going to the polling station. You can apply for a postal vote online before the deadline of 5pm on Tuesday 21 April. Postal votes will be sent out by Tuesday 28 April and must be received at the Town Hall not later than 10pm on Thursday 7 May.
Going away? If you are unable to vote in person, or will be away from your registered address between 21 April and 7 May you can apply for someone else to vote on your behalf (a proxy vote). The deadline to apply is 5pm on Tuesday 28 April. If you have any questions please email the elections team.
More information: www.havering.gov.uk/elections
Visit Museum What were you doing in 1965? That was the year when the London Borough of Havering was formed by the merger of the Urban District of Hornchurch with the Municipal borough of Romford. You can step back in time from Wednesday 1 April until Sunday 12 June 2015 when a display, including artefacts discovered in Havering, will be on display at Havering Museum, in Romford High Street. Film footage of Havering in April
1965 and stills will also be played continuously on the TV monitor in the Museum Reception. Havering Museum is run entirely by volunteers who do an excellent job researching and preparing the displays and exhibitions. Why not gather a group of friends and use your Freedom Pass to pay the Museum a visit? Opening times are on the Museum’s website. More information: www.havering.gov.uk/50years www.haveringmuseum.org.uk
Contact details Housing Services Customer Contact Service The easiest way to contact us is by using www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing The Contact Service is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm on 01708 434000 or Freephone 0800 151 3444. You can also use these numbers to make an appointment to meet a member of staff at different locations across Havering. Out of hours If you have a problem outside normal office hours that won’t wait ring 01708 756699.
There are a number of ways you can get in touch with us.
Ideas for this magazine If you have ideas for future articles contact Chelsea Potts (pictured) by emailing chelsea. potts@havering.gov.uk or ring 01708 434668
Looking back If you want to check out a previous issue of Sheltered Times they are now on line at www.havering.gov.uk/ shelteredtimes.
Careline Performance Havering Council’s Careline service is available to provide support for people living alone and the figures below show its performance during the last quarter of 2014. Response to emergency calls 90 per cent of emergency calls to response within 45 minutes 2
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Anti-Social Behaviour Email: asb@havering.gov.uk For problems outside 9am to 5pm ring 01708 726685. Textphone The Textphone number is 01708 433399. Email For general enquiries homes@havering.gov.uk For rent queries housingrents@havering.gov.uk To find out about the Decent Homes programme capitalprojects@havering.gov.uk To get involved getinvolved@havering.gov.uk Social Media Follow us on: Twitter at @LBofHavering. Facebook – log in and in the search box type Get involved – Havering Council tenants and leaseholders Visit the office Chippenham Road, Harold Hill RM3 8YQ You can find us to the right of St George’s Church Centre at the top end of the Hilldene Shopping Centre and 100 per cent within one hour. The previous quarter Careline achieved 99 per cent within 45 minutes and 100 per cent within 60 minutes and average response time was 24 minutes. New equipment 90 per cent of urgent installations within two days and 100 per cent within five days The previous quarter Careline achieved 98 per cent within two days and 100 per cent within five days.
Repairs to equipment 90 per cent of critical repairs within 48 hours and 100 per cent within 96 hours The previous quarter Careline achieved 100 per cent within 48 and 96 hours. 90 per cent of non-critical within 10 days and 100 per cent within five days The previous quarter Careline achieved 100 per cent within 10 and five days.
A day in the life: Mary Dormer, Community Engagement Officer It’s 8am and Mary is in the housing offices at Chippenham Road clearing the paperwork which follows on from the visits she made yesterday and then at 9.30am it’s on the road for the first of her visits. Mary said: “I like to get the paperwork out of the way first thing as, although it’s essential to make sure that accurate records of tenant visits are kept, it’s the boring part of the job. “It also means that all the school run traffic has gone by the time I finish it and start travelling round Havering doing the part of my job I like best, visiting tenants. “I do a lot of work with sheltered housing residents so at the moment I am calling on tenants who are having new kitchens and bathrooms fitted. Mess and disruption “We all know how much mess and disruption such work can cause so I try to make sure that’s kept to a minimum and everything runs smoothly. “As part of the Community Engagement Team there are a lot of events we plan from the Residents’ Conference every February through to family lounge lunches at individual sheltered housing schemes. “Although I’m usually finished around 4.30pm there are often evening meetings with tenants who are not around during the day, but that’s all part of the job. “Without doubt it’s the people that make this job worth doing, there are so many nice people and true characters that you meet; people with such interesting life stories that make you think ‘wow’ when you hear them. Everyone an individual “Everyone is an individual with a story to tell and it’s important they know they are valued and cared for. For example, we have 85 tenants who live on their own so we visited each of them to let them have a warm pack. “ Mary added: “I live in Hornchurch with my partner and have three children and two grand-children, who all live in Havering so this is my community
Olive Caunter chats with Mary
and it’s great to be able to help some of our older residents who have helped make Havering the pleasant place it is today.” Ravenscourt Grove resident Olive Caunter said: “Mary’s always cheerful when she visits and takes time to listen to you, which is important.”
Facebook for housing news Havering Council’s Housing Services has its own Facebook page, which is used to provide information, including details of forthcoming events. You can also use the page to share ideas and views with other tenants and leaseholders. The computers in the communal lounges can be used to access this page so do check it out and click ‘Like’ today. More information: www.facebook.com/haveringhousing Sheltered Housing , Issue 4
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New bins boost recycling
Bright new orange bins are appearing in the refuse areas of Havering Council’s sheltered housing schemes as part of a campaign to encourage residents to recycle more of their household waste. Senior Estates Officer, Claire Lacey, said: “In the past there has just been one large bin where tenants left all their
rubbish, which meant there was no opportunity for them to recycle. “The bright new orange bins are easy to use and every sack put in them is one less sack going to a landfill site. “We will be introducing the orange bins in more areas during the next year, and hope as many residents as possible will use them as every item recycled helps the environment.” Resident, Gordon Kirkley, (pictured) of Queens Street,
Three words that sum up the vision of Havering’s future, which has been adopted by the Council. The vision has been developed by listening to residents at recent public meetings and Meet the Leader events as well as from comments made during the budget consultation. The main parts of that vision are: • We want Havering to be clean and to look after our environment for future generations. 4
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Romford, said: “I mentioned to Claire that residents had to put both orange and black sacks in the same bin as only one was available. “She quickly arranged for an orange recycling bin to be available as well as the one for normal rubbish and residents are certainly making use of it. “I think people will recycle if it’s made easy for them and these new orange bins are a big help.” More information: www.havering.gov.uk/recycling
• We want you to be safe – whether you’re a pensioner walking through the town after dark, or a young child growing up without the security of a loving home. • And we want you to be proud to live in Havering – where we respect each other, value our traditions and work together to improve our quality of life. More information: www.havering.gov.uk/vision
Making the right connection
Keep in touch with the Council
Tutor Hugh Henry works with Barbara Preston at Lombard House
Residents of sheltered schemes across the borough are making world-wide connections thanks to the computers which are now available in communal lounges of every scheme. The computers can be used for emailing friends and relations or chatting with them on Skype as well as for searching the web, doing internet banking or shopping or just checking out what’s available on Havering Council’s website. Computer tutor, Hugh Henry, has been visiting each of the schemes to run training courses for residents. Hugh said: “It’s great fun doing these training courses. Often people are a bit nervous at first as they think that doing something wrong could cause major problems when that really isn’t the case. “I enjoy watching the residents on the courses gain in confidence and the realisation of how many doors being able to use a computer opens, especially for those who are not
as mobile as they used to be.” John Clifford, of Lombard House, said: “I’ve been doing the training with Hugh and he makes it easy to understand and remember what you need to do. “I’m enjoying searching the internet and have also learnt how to send emails which is proving really useful.” Brian Laws, of Solar Court, Harold Hill, said: “I use the computers a lot to listen to music on YouTube, it’s better than what’s on TV. I also play games on the computer and have even toured the Andes without leaving home.
With computers now available in communal lounges, sheltered housing residents can use email to keep up to date with what Havering Council is doing. Regular updates are produced on a wide range of topics from activities for the over 55s to the Care Act; recycling to cycling; crime prevention to travel hotspots and more topics are planned during 2015. It’s easy to sign up, all you need is an email address then go to the website below and choose which updates interest you. More information: www.havering.gov.uk/ Havering-Updates “I think all old people should be using computers as they offer so much.”
Hugh Henry watches as residents of Holsworthy House, in Harold Hill learn how to surf the internet. Sheltered Housing , Issue 4
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Got a door that is sticking? Do your smoke alarm batteries need replacing?
Has your toilet seat fallen off? Is that tap still dripping?
Perhaps we can help?
HANDY PERSON SCHEME Meet our Handyman Paul Call 01708 434087 or 0800 1513444 to arrange for one of our Handymen to visit your home Do you need somebody to do those little jobs around your home? Our Handy Person Scheme is a free service to Havering tenants to help people over 60, vulnerable or disabled residents who need minor repairs and maintenance to their home. Our Handy Person Scheme can carry out many repairs for you including: • Door security such as fitting extra locks, • Fixing or replacing toilet seats security chains and spy holes on your • Minor repairs to taps front door • Securing carpets • Putting together flat pack furniture • Fixing curtain rails or blinds • Changing light bulbs • Hanging curtains • Moving small items of furniture • Putting up shelves, pictures or mirrors • Fixing a sticky doors or windows • Fitting smoke alarms or changing • Fixing or replacing doorbells the batteries
How can you find out more or request a repair? For more information or to ask for help from the Handy Person, call us on 01708 434087. Our administrators can discuss your needs and assess whether our Handy Person can assist you.
What the Handy Person Scheme cannot do. The Handy Person scheme cannot carry out the following works: • Electrical or gas work • Fencing • Ladder work • Roofing • Major works • Cosmetic jobs • Decorating • Emergency repairs • Gardening • Private residents or leaseholders
Who can use this service? This service is open to all Havering Council tenants who are: • Elderly or frail • Have a learning disability • Have a physical disability • Have a mental health problem 6
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Decent Homes update Havering Council’s Decent Homes programme is continuing as Capital Projects Surveyor. Jamie Curtis reported to the recent SHOUT Forum. Jamie said: “We are now currently on site completing kitchen and bathroom renewals to Ravenscourt Grove, Beehive Court and Holsworthy House. All works are progressing well with a high level of satisfaction already from the quality of the work being completed. “Next on the list for bathroom and kitchen refurbishments are Cottons Court, Fambridge Court, Lombard House and Queen Street. “Surveys are currently underway at the remaining schemes, where work still has to be done, with consultation meetings booked giving residents an opportunity to meet with members of the project team to find out how work will be done. “Park Lane sheltered scheme is currently having external refurbishment works completed which consists of the renewal of the fascia, soffits, guttering and downpipes, insulation and new cladding, all previously painted surfaces decorated and all communal windows replaced
Frances Rowntree in her new kitchen at Solar Court
with new PVCu double glazed windows. “Plans are currently underway to also complete an external refurbishment project for the Neave Crescent block. Door entry “The new door entry systems should be completed by 30 April making all the schemes more secure, while making it easier for residents to get in and out by using their special key on the yellow box at each entrance.”
Investing in the future Havering Council has agreed a programme of investment in sheltered housing schemes as part of its budget for 2015/16. That includes spending £13,000 towards the
Jamie Curtis gives an update on Decent Homes
cost of providing broadband in the sheltered housing schemes where ICT suites have been installed. Through the broadband and computers residents will be able to shop online, contact relatives through Skype and carry out other functions via the internet. This service is currently being used by one in five of the residents in Sheltered Housing, and it is hoped that this will be extended through training and support during the next year. Large screens are also being installed so that film clubs can be formed. The budget also allows the funding of TV licences for sheltered schemes. Sheltered Housing , Issue 4
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Spotlight on Garrick House
Cheers to great improvements – Danielle Armstrong and residents celebrate the opening of the new facilities
TOWIE star, Danielle Armstrong, has given her seal of approval on new facilities at Garrick House, in Hornchurch, when she officially opened them at a party with residents. Danielle, who regularly visits her aunt, Garrick House resident Renee Everitt, said: “My aunt has lived here for years so I can see what a difference these improvements have made. “Throughout the work residents stuck together and didn’t complain so it’s good to celebrate the end of the work, which is a big improvement for residents.” 8
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The £170,000 programme included new kitchens and walk-in showers in residents’ flats along with improvements to the communal areas, creation of a new library and quiet seating areas on each floor. Renee, who has lived at Garrick House for 18 years, said: “In 58 years of married life I've never had a fitted kitchen before and it’s great; the walk-in showers are brilliant too as they’re so easy to use. “The standard of work has been really good and I was pleased when my niece, Danielle, agreed to come to the party
Renee Everitt shows her niece Danielle Armstong and Susan Moore the new library area
celebrating the end of the work as that made it even more special for us all.”
Line dancing is popular at Garrick House
While the new facilities are a boost for residents, the community spirit has been going strong for many years. Garrick Stompers Renee explained: “We used to have Tai Chi classes which a lot of people joined in but they got a bit expensive; someone suggested line dancing and we’ve been doing that on Tuesday afternoons for more than five years now. “It keeps us fit and active and we have people coming from as far away as Collier Row to join in as it’s great fun too.” Harold Wood based dance teacher, Jan, leads the line
The Garrick House stompers Logo
dancing and said: “The Garrick Stompers are a great crowd; I enjoy the sessions as much as they do. “SHOUT Forum representative for Garrick House, Malcolm Hales, said: “We try to have something every day for residents to take part in if they want to. “There’s bingo on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; coffee afternoons on Thursdays as well as darts, pool and ringboard in the communal lounge.
“Once a month, usually on the last Friday, we also have a fish and chip supper which goes down well and when we can afford it we have a singer for that event too. “I’ve been the SHOUT Forum rep for about two years, working with the other rep, Susan Moore, and really enjoy the job. “Putting forward the suggestions of other residents and then seeing those ideas turned into action is very rewarding.”
Cabinet Member for Housing and Deputy Leader, Councillor Damian White, cuts the ribbon to officially open the new facilities. Sheltered Housing , Issue 4
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SHOUT for YOUR representative Each sheltered housing scheme can have up to two representatives attend the SHOUT (Sheltered Housing Users Team) forum. If you have a question or issue you wish them to raise please contact your representative. The current representatives are: 29 Bards Court Ann Ruddiman 35 Holsworthy House Stan Tackley 29 Bards Court David Ruddiman 29 Maygreen Crescent Sue Hutton 40 Beehive Court Jeff Haimov 75 Neave Crescent Bill Brace 47 Beehive Court Joyce Rafis 166 Park Lane Lil Hudson 15 Brunswick Court Ann Christian 35 Poplar Street Pamela Skipworth 45 Brunswick Court Paul Clark 41 Poplar Street Daphne Clifford 9 Cockabourne Court Brian Morland 41 Poplar Street John Clifford 58 Charlbury Court Barbara Hughes 14 Queen Street Ted Jones 94 Charlbury Court Rosie George 56 Queen Street Gordon Kirkley 9 Cockabourne Court Brian Morland 135 Ravenscourt Grove Lesley Duke 22 Cockabourne Court Kenneth Turrell 109 Ravenscourt Grove Jean Garbett 3 Cole Court Beryl Lodge 34 Royal Jubilee Court Thomas Walsh 10 Cole Court Doreen Richardson 39 Royal Jubilee Court Gladys Collier 80 Delderfield House Maureen Millbank 13 Solar Court Frances Rowntree 82 Delderfield House Shirley Fletcher 3 Sunrise Court Brian Laws 7 Dell Court Maureen Marsh 6 Thomas Sims Court Peter Cox 14 Dell Court Maureen Piller 11 Thomas Sims Court Mike Droy 11 Fambridge Court Bert Morley 28 Thomas Sims Court Jean Ingram 18 Fambridge Court Jean Freeman 5 William Tansley Smith House Lucy Proctor 7 Garrick House Malcolm Hales 11 William Tansley Smith House Adrienne Bell 29 Garrick House Susan Moore
Briefing on Care Act changes for April SHOUT Forum representatives had a special briefing on changes to care and support that will start happening from April 2015. Darren Bindloss, from the Havering Council including emotional and physical needs. team responsible for implementing the The aim is to identify what support each reforms, said: “The new legislation brings individual needs to help them in their about huge changes to how adult social everyday life. care is both provided and paid for. The 2 Support for carers to put them on the national changes are designed to help same footing as the people they care people plan for the future and put for. Many carers are friends or family residents more in control of the help they rather than professional carers and the receive.” changes are designed to meet individual The changes this year will include: needs and help people carry on caring. 1 A new style of needs assessment which 3 A deferred payment scheme which will focus on an individual well-being means people will not be forced to sell 10
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their home to p lifetime. In Ha able to take ad for some time available natio More changes to care and support April 2016. Subje will include a life £72,000 to prote highest needs fr and financial sup
Heard at the SHOUT Forum
Chelsea Potts, from the Community Engagement team, briefs the SHOUT Forum on the Family Forum project
Representatives from the 19 sheltered housing schemes met at Hacton Lane Community Hall in January and here is a roundup of some of the items discussed. For more detailed information have a chat with your representative. • The SHOUT Forum Annual General Meeting will take place from 10am on Tuesday 28 April at Hacton Lane Community Hall. The committee will be elected and the constitution agreed. • All future SHOUT Forum meetings will be held at Hacton Lane Community Hall, Hornchurch, following the refurbishment of that facility. • Family forums is a new
pay for care during their avering people have been dvantage of this scheme but this will now be onally. o the way people pay for t will be introduced from ect to consultation, this etime care cap set at tect people with the rom facing unlimited costs pport for people with
network that the Community Engagement team is trying to set up. The aim of this is to form a group of family members of residents living at sheltered housing and meeting on a quarterly basis to discuss various topics to do with sheltered housing, for example; decent homes work, activities in sheltered housing, volunteer opportunities at activities for family members, suggestions and ideas etc. We will be starting this project with a meeting at every scheme. Once these are finished and we have a database of interested family members, quarterly meetings will start
modest means. Costs such as food and accommodation will still be paid for by individuals and won’t be part of the cap. Havering Council has launched a Care Connect email update to keep residents up to date on what is happening. To get your copy simply go to www.havering.gov.uk/HaveringUpdates, click on Care Connect and enter your email address More information: www.havering.gov.uk/CareAct
from March. • Every SHOUT Forum meeting in future will receive a report on the Careline service so residents know how it is performing and raise any issues or concerns. • The Mobile Support Review is progressing well with all the new scheme managers due to be in place by Wednesday 1 April 2015. • The provisional dates for SHOUT Forum meetings are: - Tuesday 28 April - Tuesday 28 July - Tuesday 27 October These meetings are for SHOUT Forum representatives and by invitation only.
Renew your Freedom Pass If your older person’s Freedom Pass has an expiry date of 31 March 2015, you should have received a letter telling you how to renew it online. More information: www.havering.gov.uk/ FreedomPass Sheltered Housing , Issue 4
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Befrienders will be there to help Feeling lonely is never pleasant, especially if you are elderly and living on your own with family miles away. Now thanks to Havering Council’s new partnership with local charity Tapestry, loneliness should be a thing of the past for residents in sheltered accommodation. Havering Council’s Housing Services Community Engagement Manager, Julie Bennett, said “The Befriending Scheme aims to connect with more than 700 people living in sheltered accommodation in order to reduce their isolation and loneliness. “There are already lots of activities, involving many residents, taking place in each of our sheltered housing schemes but we know there are some residents who don’t get involved in such events and they are the ones we wish to reach. Get involved “Active residents will be encouraged to get involved in local community activities whilst those who cannot get out will be contacted through the use of technology and supported so that they feel comfortable inviting people into their homes. “The Befrienders will offer whatever help the individual resident wants, from a chat and listening ear through to a trip to the shops or local library. 12
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Julie Bennett explains how the Befriending Scheme will work to SHOUT Forum representatives
“We are really excited to be working with Tapestry to tackle isolation amongst some of our sheltered accommodation residents. It is very important to us that they have a high quality of life”.
Chief Executive of Tapestry, Tony Lowe, said: “Loneliness and isolation of some of our most vulnerable people is something that urgently needs to be tackled. This new scheme will be looking at how we use innovative ways to reach these members of the community”. More information: www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing www.tapestry-uk.org
Big screens boost friendships The large TV screens that have been installed in communal lounges are proving very popular with lots of residents meeting up to watch their favourite programmes. In some schemes film afternoons are taking place with groups of friends hiring a DVD to watch together. How long will it be before we see popcorn and choc ices available during these “cinema afternoons”? More information: www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing
Beating scam artists Sadly there are some people who think it’s easy to con elderly people and take their money. There have been a number of scams taking place in Havering recently including one where road works have been taking place in the street so the scammers have claimed that: • Drains are blocked causing problems for the street • Garden walls are unsafe and will fall into the street causing potential injury to passers by • Paving outside of house being renewed and that they were from the Council. They claim the homeowner had problems with a tree, that equipment would have to be hired to do work, and that this had to be done before paving could be replaced. Workmen from Havering Council or utility companies will NEVER ask for money from residents while work is taking place. Genuine callers will show you
10 golden rules 1 There are no guaranteed get rich – quick schemes. 2 Do not agree to offers or deals straight away. Obtain legal / independent advice before making a decision. 3 Never hand over money or sign anything until you have checked the company you are dealing with. 4 Never send money or give your bank personal details to anyone. 5 Always log on directly to a website rather than clicking onto a link provided by an email
proper identification and will happily wait outside while you call to check their credentials – remember never use a number on a card they show you, get the number of their
6 Do not rely on a glowing testimonial – find independent evidence of a company’s success. 7 Always get independent / legal advice if the offer involves money, time , or commitment. 8 If you suspect a scam please report it and get help from action fraud 03001232040 9 Scammers are cunning and clever. They know how to manipulate you! 10 Always be suspicious – if you are unsure about anything seek help and advice.
organisation from the phone book or other independent source. Do check out the 10 golden rules to beat the scam artists.
More information: www.havering.gov.uk/communitysafety
Take care when using cash machines Using a debit card is often an easier and safer way to pay for shopping or other things you want to buy but there are times when cash is king. The easiest way to get cash is from an ATM, but sometimes they can be used by scammers to collect your card details and
PIN so here are some simple rules to keep you and your money safe: • Use a machine inside a bank • Do not give your pin detail to anyone • Always cover your pin when using the machine • If there is anything unusual
about the cash machine do not use it and report it to your bank immediately • Do not get distracted – be cautious of well ‘meaning ‘ strangers who want to help • Put your money and card away before leaving the machine. Sheltered Housing , Issue 4
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weaves web of support December saw the launch of Tapestry, the new name for Age Concern Havering, and new services are already in place to help those in need. The new organisation promises a host of new services for the local community including a food delivery service and healthy activities including Walking Football. New identity Chief Executive of Tapestry, Tony Lowe, said: “When Age Concern Havering decided not to join Age UK several years ago it became clear we needed to develop a new identity, which is why we have launched as Tapestry”. Support “Our focus is upon prevention, care and support. We aim to build on the excellent work in the community we have done for 65 years and to introduce new programmes and schemes that will reach out to a new audience”. “We wanted to change our name as we wanted to move away from defining ourselves by the age of the people we benefit. We support younger people with dementia and also carers, not just the elderly whom we will continue to do everything we can to support.” Tapestry’s new look shop in Hornchurch High Street is now open for business too, offering a range of goods for sale to raise funds for the charity. 14
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Walking football kicks off Walking Football is a slower paced version of the beautiful game, aimed at men who want to stay active despite their age and ability or who just miss having a game of footie. The rules of Walking Football mean that you have to keep at least one foot on the ground at all times, you cannot run and you cannot slide tackle. Matches are still competitive and most importantly a lot of fun. Life-long fan Revd. Canon Hugh Debbins, said ‘It was fun to play my first game of Walking Football. As a 75 year old, it is now some time since I played a full 90 minute game of regular football. “But, as a life-long football fan and supporter of West Ham United, it has been exhilarating to get back on the football field for a full 40 minutes. “Walking Football obviously also has health and fitness benefits, but essentially it was really enjoyable. “I hope there will be a local league and it will become hugely popular among us football enthusiasts who find it easier to walk than run these days!” Come and join us Sessions at: • Romford YMCA, Rush Green Road, Romford, RM7 0PH, are
Revd. Canon Hugh Debbins who scored four goals in his first match.
on Mondays from midday to 1pm • Sanders School, Suttons Lane, Hornchurch RM12 6RT on Thursdays from 7pm to 8pm. More information: www.tapestry-uk.org
Good neighbours are more than just good friends Last year Havering Council launched its Good Neighbour Awards with an invitation to tenants to suggest people they knew who went that extra mile to help people. Those nominations have been carefully considered and at this year’s Residents’ Conference, held at the Salvation Army Hall in Romford High Street, five Havering Council tenants received Good Neighbour Awards after they were put forward by other tenants. The five were: • Thomas Driscoll of Havering Road in Romford • Jean Freeman of Cottons Courts in Romford • Lois Mackie, of Taunton Road in Harold Hill • Marion Noble of Cockabourne Court in Harold Wood and • Ivan Webb of Writtle Walk in Rainham Two of those nominated, Jean Freeman and Marion Noble, are from sheltered housing schemes. Battled illness Speaking about Marion her nominees said: “Marion was originally the warden at Cockabourne Court Even though Marion has retired and battled a serious illness she has helped us to no end.” “I am nominating Marion because she Is always there for you and does everything for our complex which is Cockabourne court”
Jean Freeman with her Good Neighbour Award
Marion said: “I was very surprised and very honoured to be nominated. I work hard at Cockabourne because it keeps everyone together doing things.” 11 nominations Jean was nominated by 11 of her neighbours who gave many reasons for putting her forward for the award including: “I am nominating Mrs Freeman because of her very caring attitude toward her neighbours. She never makes a fuss about what she is asked to do and gives her time freely to all” “Jean has been extremely helpful in assisting my dad for his hospital appointments on
Marion Noble with her Good Neighbour Award
several occasions, as work commitments have not allowed me to take him. Jean is always available to help him if needed.” “Jean’s generosity to the residents of Fambridge Court has no boundaries from hospital appointments, the doctor or enquiries and a trustworthy friend to all” “Jean is helpful in anything you want to know about; she is one in a million” So once again Havering’s community spirit has shone through as we recognise the work done by these residents, which makes us all proud to live in Havering.
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Keeping fit from your armchair
Residents Eve Ndiweni, Brian Laws, Rose Dixon and Colleen Tentis of Solar Court are put through their paces by Georgina Latino
We all know that as we get older our bodies change so we often can’t do things we did in the past but a new activity being run by Romford YMCA aims to change that. The armchair fitness course, led by former dancer Georgina Latino, of Collier Row, is 30 minutes of gentle exercise all done while sitting down. Georgina said: “The aim is to help people keep fit without having to do strenuous exercise and the course offers something for everyone. No
matter how mobile they are we can help everyone through the exercises we do.” Colleen Tentis, of Solar Court, Harold Hill, said: “The course is very good as it helps keep you supple which is important. It’s also good fun with everyone joining in and enjoying themselves” Fellow resident Brian Laws added: “I have to use a mobility scooter to get around so this is the only exercise I get, I think it’s a great idea and enjoy taking part.”
Wonderful market at Rochester
Testing the little grey cells The new programme of fun quizzes is proving popular with residents of sheltered schemes across Havering. Quiz master, Glen Anderson, sets challenging questions on topics ranging from geography to pop music with the aim of seeing who can have the most fun while testing their memory. John Clifford, of Lombard House, Romford, said: “We work in teams of two for the quiz and have a great couple of hours testing our knowledge against Glen’s. “He is a fantastic quiz master and often has us in stitches with the questions he asks. It really is a very entertaining afternoon and if you win you even get a box of chocolates to enjoy as well.” Check when th out eq be held uiz will near on page you 19.
Sixty-eight residents from different sheltered housing schemes had a day trip to Rochester to browse the Christmas Market as Daphne and John Clifford, of Poplar Street, report. “We had a wonderful day at Rochester. It was the first time we’d been to Rochester so didn’t know what to expect. Sadly we arrived just too late to see the Dickens Parade but there were still a lot of the characters in costume which we did see. “The market was up a very steep road, and walking up the hill was difficult for some of the group, but the market itself was wonderful. “It was all under cover with hundreds of stalls; I bought some Christmas presents while I was there including a beautiful necklace and a bag, both at very reasonable prices. We also discovered a lovely restaurant where we enjoyed a very nice meal. “On the coach back it was agreed that it had been a wonderful day.” All aboard for Rochester 16
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£1.2m helps wishes come true
Marina Crofts outlines the wish list successes at the recent SHOUT Forum
This year has seen lots of wishes made by residents of sheltered housing schemes come true thanks to an investment or more than £1 million in “the little things that matter a lot”. Speaking at the recent SHOUT Forum, Community Services Manager Marina Crofts, said: “We asked residents of sheltered housing schemes to let us know what they would like to see in their scheme that would make life more enjoyable as it is our residents that can tell us about the little changes that would make a big difference. Wish list “From those ideas we developed our wish list and during the last year we have spent £1.2 million making many of those wishes come true. “The wish list included new
pictures in corridors and communal areas, new garden furniture, new carpets and large screen TVs in communal lounges and much more. “We think that money has been well spent and we know many residents are already enjoying the benefits of these improvements.” Next year Marina added: “Next year our aim is to start work on improving the communal toilet and bathroom facilities used by guests. This work will cost around £10,000 per scheme so will take some time to complete but again we believe it will be a big improvement. “We are also spending £240,000 to convert five bedsits at Beehive Court into three flats. People no longer want to live in bedsits and these are proving very hard to
let but one bedroom flats are very popular. “If this conversion works well we will then be looking at doing similar conversions at other schemes. “During the next year we are also planning to put a new carpet in the communal lounge at Cole Court. “Finances will be tight during the coming year but we are still committed to investing in our sheltered housing schemes to make sure they continue to be pleasant places in which to live. “As always we will be aiming to get maximum benefit for every penny we spend which is why we will be listening to what residents have to say as they know their schemes better than we do.” More information: www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing Sheltered Housing , Issue 4
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Activities for you to enjoy There are lots of activities for you to enjoy in each of the Sheltered Housing Schemes as you can see below: Scheme
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Bards Court
Coffee Morning, Afternoon Tea and Darts
Coffee Morning, Club meet In Afternoon
Computer lessons in Morning, Coffee Morning, Games Afternoon
Coffee Morning 11am-1pm Computer Training Bingo Afternoon
Coffee Morning Quiz Afternoon
Beehive Court
Fitness Club Morning
Tapestry Morning Bingo Evening
Afternoon Tea
Lunch Bingo Evening
Brunswick Court
Bingo Afternoon
Table Games Afternoon
Perky Pensioners Lunch
Silver Linx Craft Club Afternoon Bingo
Bingo Evening
Charlbury Crescent Cockerbourne Court Cole Court
Bacon Sandwiches Morning Coffee Morning
Cottons Court
Activities Club Afternoon Bingo Evening Bingo Afternoon
Pool Afternoon
Bingo Afternoon
Darts Afternoon
Activities Club Afternoon Bingo Evening Bingo Afternoon
Pool Afternoon
Breakfast Morning Bingo Evening
Line Dancing Afternoon Coffee Morning Film Evening
Bingo Afternoon
Dell Court Fambridge Court
Garrick House
Holsworthy House Coffee Morning Bingo Afternoon Lombard House Maygreen Crescent Park Lane Poplar Street Queen Street Ravenscourt Grove Royal Jubilee Court
Bingo Afternoon Coffee Morning Coffee Morning Bingo Afternoon
Coffee Morning
Computer Games
Serena, Solar and Sunrise Courts
Bingo Afternoon
Thomas Sims Court
Tea and Coffee Morning Bingo and Bonus Ball Game Lunch
Coffee Morning Bacon and Sausage Rolls Tea and Coffee Morning Pool
William Tansley Smith House
Coffee Morning
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Lunch Dinner/ Entertainment Evenings Bible Studies Morning Lunch Hairdresser Visits Silver Linx Craft Afternoon Club Afternoon Darts Evening
Coffee Morning Lunch every other Wednesday Activities Evening Breakfast Morning Bingo Evening
Computer Lessons Coffee Morning Breakfast Morning
Entertainment Evenings
Pool Afternoon
Perky Pensioners Coffee Morning Pool
Bingo Afternoon
Tea and Cake Afternoon Coffee Morning Bingo Evening
Bingo Afternoon Keep Fit Coffee Morning
Knitting Afternoon
Snooker Evening Snooker Evening Breakfast Morning
Darts Evening
Knitting /Craft Afternoon
Coffee Morning Computer Games
Tea and Coffee Morning Silver Linx Craft Club Afternoon Cards Evening
Knitting Afternoon Cards Evening
Bingo Afternoon
Computer Games
Coffee Morning Computer Games Lounge Lunches
Tea and Coffee Morning Bacon and Sausage Sandwich Lunch Entertainment Evenings
Special Events Beehive Court
Thursday 2 April Afternoon Quiz Thursday 7 May Afternoon Quiz Thursday 4 June Afternoon Quiz Thursday 2 July Morning Quiz
Holsworthy House
Tuesday 7 April Afternoon Quiz Tuesday 12 May Afternoon Quiz Tuesday 9 June Afternoon Quiz Tuesday 14 July Afternoon Quiz
Lombard Court
Tuesday 14 April Afternoon Quiz Tuesday 19 May Afternoon Quiz Tuesday 16 June Afternoon Quiz Tuesday 21 July Afternoon Quiz
Poplar Street
Tuesday 14 April Afternoon Quiz Tuesday 19 May Afternoon Quiz Tuesday 16 June Afternoon Quiz Tuesday 21 July Afternoon Quiz
Ravenscourt Grove
Monday 20 April Afternoon Quiz Monday 18 May Afternoon Quiz Monday 22 June Afternoon Quiz Monday 20 July Afternoon Quiz
Thomas Sims Court
Thursday 2 April Morning Quiz Thursday 7 May Morning Quiz Thursday 4 June Morning Quiz Thursday 2 July Morning Quiz
William Tansley Smith House
Thursday 16 April Afternoon Quiz Thursday 14 May Afternoon Quiz Thursday 18 June Afternoon Quiz Thursday 16 July Afternoon Quiz
Cabinet Member’s Surgery During 2015 Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Damian White, will be holding regular surgeries across the Borough. Council tenants can call in and discuss housing issues with him. The surgeries will be on a ‘first come, first served’ basis and any tenants are welcome to come along. All discussions will be confidential. If specific concerns are raised Councillor White will raise these with relevant officers and seek to resolve the issue. The next meeting dates are:
Friday 15 May Hacton Hall , Haydock Close 11.30am to 1.30pm Hornchurch RM12 6EA Friday 26 June 3pm to 5pm
Highfield – room next to Highfield Towers, Hillrise Road, Collier Row RM5 3DQ
Friday 14 August 4pm to 6pm
Town Hall, Main Road Romford, RM1 3BB
What does your garden need? Havering Council produces a monthly Active Living email update for the over 50s full of news and information on events, trips and much more. Sign up for your copy at www.havering.gov.uk/Havering-Updates
As summer approaches now is the time to plan what your scheme’s communal garden needs. If you have some ideas of improvements that residents would enjoy do let us know. More information: www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing Sheltered Housing , Issue 4
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Save up to £220 on your energy bills
Big saving “That’s a big saving, and doesn't cost anything but as well as saving you money it also means
Simple steps to help you save money SAVE £65 by turning your central heating thermostat down by 1°C Cost: Free. Payback: Immediate C02 Saving: 260Kg SAVE £50-90 by not leaving appliances on standby and turning off devices when not in use Cost: Free Payback: Immediate C02 Saving: 310Kg SAVE £20 by only using your tumble dryer when you can’t dry clothes outside Cost: Free Payback: Immediate C02 Saving: 70Kg SAVE £15 by replacing one weekly bath with a five minute shower Cost: Free Payback: Immediate C02 Saving: 10Kg SAVE £13 by setting washing machines to 30°C instead of washing at higher temperatures Cost: Free Payback: Immediate C02 Saving: 40Kg SAVE £8 by switching all lights off when you leave a room Cost: Free Payback: Immediate C02 Saving: 25Kg SAVE £8 by only boiling the water you need in your kettle Cost: Free Payback: Immediate C02 Saving: 25Kg 20
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less carbon emissions so is better for the environment too.” Keep warm It is important that you keep your home warm so Penny is offering free home energy checks if you are feeling the effects of rising energy bills or if you are simply interested in your energy options. Just email her for more information and to arrange an appointment. More information: Energyadvice@havering.gov.uk
Moving home made easier
Residents who wish to move from one flat to another within the same sheltered housing scheme will find it easier to do so in future. Often a resident living in an upstairs flat finds it difficult to climb stairs as they get older but doesn’t want to lose the friends they have in their scheme. Now anyone wishing to move to another flat, perhaps on the ground floor, can do so without having to go through the whole bidding process. An assessment of need will still be done to make sure the move is the right one for the resident More information: www.havering.gov.uk/ askhousing
Design & Print by London Borough of Havering. Job No: 004220
Some of the biggest wastes of energy in the home are down to one thing… the choices we make. That’s the message from Havering Council’s Energy Efficiency Advisor, Penny Crookshank, who said: “By simply getting in the habit of doing the things in our list, you’ll instantly start saving up to £220 on your energy bills every year.