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heartof the matter

Spring 2012 | Issue 6

New Director of Housing

Hilltop funday

Anti Social Behaviour

Sheltered Shout inside

Going LargeEvery member of staff at Tai Calon Community Housing carries an identity card. The size of a credit card it has their name and photograph.

Tenants should always insist on seeing it when someone calls at their home. However, the card can be difficult to read for people with sight impairments, which is why the organisation has issued its trade staff with a larger, easier to read, ID card. .

There are so many different ways in which you can get in touch with us and keep up-to-date with what is going on.

By Phone: Ring us on 0300 303 1717 between 9AM and 5PM Monday to Friday.

By Email: info@taicalon.org

By fax: 01495 290 501.

Visit or write to us at:Tai Calon Community Housing, Solis One, Rising Sun Industrial Estate, Blaina, Blaenau Gwent, NP13 3JW

Website: www.taicalon.org has lots of useful information about us and you can read all our latest news.

facebook: join our page by “liking” us at facebook.com/taicalon

Twitter: follows us @taicalon

If you have a story to tell us, or want us to include something in the next edition of our newsletter, contact:

Hefina Rendle,Communications and PR Manager, at Solis One, or by email hefinar@taicalon.org

Contentsz Celebrating Being in Training p3

z Tenant OCN Course p4

z New Director p4

z At Risk p5

z Getting Stuck In p6

z Gardening Competition p7

z Hilltop Funday p8/9

z Potty About Pots p10

z Flexible Learning in the Community p10

z Sheltered Shout p11/14

z Be In It ... To Win It p15

z Neighbourhood Walkabouts p16/17

z Anti social behaviour p18/20

z Grass Cutting p21

z Tenant Board Member Elections p22

z Time to say Thank You p23

z What’s Happening p24

Keep in Touch

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15 apprentices were invited for afternoon tea at the headquarters of Tai Calon Community Housing to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week.

Six work for the organisation and are the first recruits to its apprenticeship scheme. The other nine are employed by firms which work alongside Tai Calon. Between them the group are doing apprenticeships in bricklaying, plumbing, plastering, carpentry, and electrical engineering.

Simon Carter, Director of Assets at Tai Calon, said “It is very important for us to provide jobs for local people now as well as in the future. Our apprenticeship programme is one of the ways we can do just that. We set it up with the intention of employing as many youngsters as possible and have worked with our contractors to get them to do the same.”

One of the 15 is Jamie Boucher from Ebbw Vale. He is a first year bricklaying apprentice

with Tai Calon. “It took me five years of applying to different schemes before I managed to get an apprenticeship. Being rejected was so disheartening and although I was working in a factory, I wanted a proper trade. When I was accepted by Tai Calon I was over the moon.”

Joshua Price from Abertillery had been training as an electrician for just a month. He was successful in getting his apprenticeship with A Bennett Electrical after attending a careers evening in Ebbw Vale. “You just can’t by-pass the experience you get as an apprentice. Learning from someone else on the job is one of the most important aspects of an apprenticeship.”

Apprentice plumber, Josh Evans from Cwm, Ebbw Vale, agrees. He feels he was very lucky to get his job with R and M Williams, after seeing many of his friends struggle to find work. “I always wanted a trade and a plumber is an excellent job. It also means that in the future I can do whatever I want knowing I have a trade to fall back upon.”

The young men all believe more employers should be encouraged to take on apprentices. Tai Calon building superintendent Dilwyn Snelgrove agrees. He started his career as a trainee plasterer 32 years ago with the old Blaenau Gwent borough council. “It was difficult even in those days to get an apprenticeship. There were loads of tests and it was a big thing to be accepted onto a scheme. Someone saw something in me and I got the job. Now I am doing my bit by helping the next generation of apprentices with their training.”

The invitation to tea came from Hayley Selway, Assistant Director of Housing and Communities. “We wanted to get the apprentices together to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week. So we invited our own along as well as those from firms who work with us, R and M Williams, Seddon, A Bennett Electrical and Seren Contractors. It is nice to meet the young men and to talk to them about how they are progressing with their training.”

Celebrating Being in Training

The apprentices pictured with Hayley Selway

4

The views of tenants are very important to Tai Calon Community Housing.

Every week it contacts residents, who’ve had repairs carried out at their homes, to find out what they think of the work. However, tenants were often reluctant to tell canvassers what they really think.

“We carry out the repair satisfaction surveys on a weekly basis. It lets us know what we are doing well and what we need to improve. So it’s very important that we get as much information as possible, but we just weren’t getting that. The tenants were not opening up to us when we rang to ask for their opinions,” said Hayley Selway, Assistant Director of Housing and Communities.

The organisation realised the solution to its problem was simple. Ask tenants to carry out the survey on its behalf. The results were amazing. So much so, that Tai Calon is now helping some of its tenant canvassers obtain a qualification for carrying out the weekly telephone calls.

Five tenants and three residents are studying for the Open College Network certificate in Customer Care. It is an eight week course and their work is assessed by Bridges into Work.

One of the trainees is Morgana Wathen. “This is really a great way to gain work experience and a qualification at the same time.”

Mawena Blackman agrees. “I am really looking forward to completing the course and it is great that Tai Calon is helping us do it.”

It is hoped that after successfully completing the course, the eight students will be able to obtain further work experience or even a job in customer care in the Blaenau Gwent area.

Tenant OCN Course

New DirectorThe new Director of Communities and Housing at Tai Calon Community Housing is Andrew Myatt.

He joined the organisation from Selwood Housing in Wiltshire where he was Head of Neighbourhoods. A Member of the Chartered Institute of Housing, Andrew has worked in the social housing sector since leaving university 18 years ago.

“Tenants, staff and board members have been very welcoming and have helped give me a real insight into where we have come from, where we are now and where we want to be, said Andrew Myatt.

“The quality of our services has improved over the past 18 months. I am excited at the prospect of developing them further and in helping to introduce new ones, as promised to our tenants. Making sure the front line services work as effectively as possible is a key component in delivering what we’ve promised,” he added.

Andrew Myatt is moving to Wales with his wife and two young children. He has previously worked for local authorities and housing associations in the South West and South of England, including Sovereign Housing, Bristol, Gosport and Portsmouth councils.

5

Sue* struggled to cope. As she fell into debt, her telephone was cut off and she got behind with her rent.

“I could barely afford to buy food, let alone pay for anything else. I owed so much money, I just didn’t know how I was going to pay it back,” she said.

But, Sue, who had been her husband’s full time carer, realised she couldn’t ignore her financial problems.

“I was very frightened of losing my home. He and I had lived here for over 20 years. I have no one. The only thing I have left is my home and I was so worried about what could happen.”

Sue got in contact with her landlord, Tai Calon Community Housing, and was overwhelmed by the support she received.

“If you owe money and can’t afford to pay, don’t ignore the problem, you have to tell them that you are in difficulty. I am so glad that I contacted Tai Calon, they have been so supportive. I couldn’t have got through it without the help and advice of Income officers, Zoe Bishop and Sara Edwards. They have been marvellous and I can

not thank them enough.”

Sue is now working part time. “Things are still tough for me, but I can afford to keep my home and that is really important to me.” She said.

Sue wanted to give others the confidence to seek help. “I am not the only person to find myself owing money, had I ignored the problem I could have lost my home.”

Income Manager Ceri Owen agrees. “We would encourage our tenants to tell us if they have a problem paying their rent. We will certainly do our

best to help and we also try to make sure tenants don’t find themselves in the situation in the first place. ”

A member of the Income team meets prospective tenants to help them budget for the cost of running their new home. The staff can also give them and existing tenants’ advice on what housing and other benefits may be available.

However, Tai Calon will write to a tenant if they fall more than a week behind with their rent. That initial contact is followed up by further letters and even visits to the home. If the tenant doesn’t respond the organisation will go to court to ask for the property back.

“We don’t want to get to that situation,” said Ceri Owen. “We will always do our best, but we can’t help if we don’t know what is wrong. And in the case of Sue, everything turned out fine for her because she came to us and told us she was having problems.” said Ceri Owen.

More changes are coming to housing bene�t

If you get help to pay your rent then you need to �nd out how the changes will a�ect you.

Get advice now Call 0845 075 5005, visit sheltercymru.org.uk

Or email hb@sheltercymru.org.ukOr call 08444 77 2020 or visit adviceguide.org.uk

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Everything fell apart for Sue when her beloved husband died suddenly. For six months she couldn’t bear to leave their Blaenau Gwent home. Her only companion was their dog, and with no family or friends to offer support, things went from bad to worse.

At risk

* We have changed her name to protect her identity.

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For the past 32 years, Mike Harvey has been cultivating his allotment. He is the longest serving member of Brynmawr Allotment Society and loves to grow flowers as well as vegetables for show.

A few years ago he won first prize in two novice classes at the National Chrysanthemum Society show in the Midlands. Gardening is also a hobby that has blossomed in popularity as more people want to grow their own food.

“An allotment was once seen as an old man’s playground and in the past we have

struggled to find enough people to cultivate the plots, but not anymore. Our four newest members are in their thirties and we still have others waiting for an allotment.” said Mr Harvey.

The society has been in existence since 1917 and the paths around the 30 plots can get very muddy in the winter. However Mr Harvey solved the problem when Brian Cooper, a painter and decorator, told him that Tai Calon Community Housing in Blaenau Gwent is giving away mulch to tenants and residents.

Green Earth, which looks after the green spaces for the organisation, has a large stockpile from mulching green waste. Gwynfor Evans, of Green Earth, said “The mulch

is free for anyone who wants it. It is ideal as a fertiliser and as a covering to prevent weeds. So we were delighted when Brynmawr Allotment Society asked for enough to lay over its paths.”

Brian Cooper, who works for Tai Calon, has had his allotment for eight years and grows his own vegetables. Much of what he produces Brian grows from seeds and from the end of March onwards he will be very busy cultivating his crops.

“It is a really healthy way of putting food on your table. It is also cheaper than shopping in the supermarket as well,” says Brian.

The mulch is free for tenants and residents and can be collected from Tai Calon’s headquarters in Blaina.

Getting Stuck in

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If the answer is yes, then enter the 2012 Tai Calon Gardening Competition.

The contest is open to all tenants and judging will take place around the end of July.

The winners in each category will receive prize money of £100, 2nd place £75 and 3rd place £25 as well as a trophy.

Categories are:-

• Best Garden• Best Beginner Garden

(tenancies under 3 years)• Best hanging basket/pot/

container• Best Community Garden• Tallest Sunflower (only open to

children aged 11 and under)

Closing date for entries is 29th June, 2012.

The decision of the judges will be final.

Entrants must be tenants of Tai Calon Community Housing.

The winners will be invited to attend a prize giving ceremony.

Tai Calon Community Housing reserves the right to print names, areas and photographs of entrants in publicity material.

Competition

Tenant Gardening Competition 2012PLEASE COMPLETE DETAILS BELOW IN BLOCK CAPITALS

Name: ....................................................................................................................................................................................

Address: ................................................................................................................................................................................

Postcode: ............................................................................................................................................................................

Telephone Number: .........................................................................................................................................................

Please tick the box for which category or categories you wish to enter:Best Garden Best Beginner Garden (tenancies under 3 years)Best hanging basket/pot/container Best Community GardenTallest Sunflower (only open to children aged 11 and under)

Return entries to Chloe Williams, Tai Calon Community Housing, Solis One, Rising Sun Industrial Estate, Blaina, Blaenau Gwent, NP13 3JW. Closing date for entries is 29th June, 2012.

!

Is your garden pretty as a picture? Do you enjoy growing things?

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Face painting ... the Dragons’ Den Community Bus ... arts and crafts ... street dancing It was all happening at Hilltop Community Funday in Ebbw Vale.

This is just one of the many events that we help organise or run in your community. If you are thinking of doing something in your area let us know.

We may be able to offer support, as well as put you in touch with organisations that could fund your activity.

Hilltop Funday

9

Potty About Pots

If you have ever fancied throwing a pot or decorating a vase then now could be the ideal time to have a go, by signing up for training at Tai Calon Community Housing.

Local potter and ceramist, Matt Jones, is running two short courses at our offices at Solis One in Blaina.

In weekly, two hour sessions, Matt will teach students the art of making a pot and how to decorate it. Each of the courses, Creative Pottery Craft Skills and An Introduction to Decorative Work, will last three weeks and lead to a certificate from Agored Cymru.

“I was studying art at college and became fascinated by ceramics. I love making things and teaching others how to do it as well,” said Matt, who went on to get a degree in ceramics before setting up his own business, “Ave a go Ceramics”. “The courses give you the chance to try something new and to be creative. They are also a great way to boost your confidence.”

A large jug made by Matt Jones is on display in reception at Blaina.

Students do not need any experience to sign up for the courses which are free.

For more information contact Natasha Jones, Community Investment and Involvement Officer on 0300 303 1717.

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Flexible Learning in the CommunityCarrie Herbert realised she needed to do something to improve her chances of finding work. So she signed up for a Learndirect class at the Garnlydan Communities First Info Shop in Ebbw Vale.

Carrie originally studied English because she wanted to improve her literacy skills and has since enrolled on a Maths class. The courses lead to City and Guilds qualifications.

Learners access their courses via the Internet, for example, during classes, at a local library, in their home or at a WEA (Workers Educational Association) centre.

Carrie enjoys being able to study from home, especially since she hasn’t been able to get to class recently because of illness. It also means she can work at her own pace wherever and whenever she chooses

There are a wide range of courses, including Employability Skills, Life Skills and IT. They are run through the Qwest Project and are free.

For further information on any of the Learndirect courses please contact:

Alyson Smith 01495 791128

James Fleming 01633 613680

Or check out the website at: www.swales.wea.org.uk/courses/learndirect/

Spring 2012 / Issue 3

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ShoutSheltered

Life at Riverside Flats

Be a Friend

Riverside Flats

The complex has 25 one-bedroomed apartments, some with stunning views over the surrounding hills. Brenda Chivers and Evelyn Young have lived at Riverside for 12 years. Like their friends at Riverside, they believe “sheltered” is the wrong word to describe the way they live. They prefer the term “independent living” because that is how they see it.

“I have had a new lease of life since coming here. I have as much privacy as I want. There is always something going on and I can choose whether to join in the activities,” said Mrs Chivers.

Evelyn Young agrees. “There is a real mix of people here, women, men, singles and couples. It is so convenient and easy. The company is great.”

Caroline Bridge is the scheme manager. She also agrees with her residents. “One prospective tenant wanted to know what time they had to be in at night. As if there is a curfew. As I explained, they can come in with

the milkman if they want. There are no strict rules. Yes, like any tenancy, there are regulations, but otherwise they can come and go as they please.”

The tenants can also decide how little, or much, support they want from Caroline. She calls on residents at least once a day, although some choose not to have any visits from her at all. Riverside is also at the heart of Blaina. There are bus stops and shops nearby, so everything is within easy walking distance for residents.

Marilyn Werrett and husband Reg moved in two years ago. “We came here for a variety of reasons, including the fact that we no longer want the responsibilities that go with having a big home. It’s lovely here, we feel safe and there is always something to do.”

The residents certainly keep themselves busy with bingo sessions, coffee mornings and meals together at Riverside. They also enjoy lots of outside activities, including visits to the theatre and concerts. Last December they had Christmas Lunch at Tredegar House in Newport.

Elaine Singleton sums up what they all think about Riverside. “It’s a community within a community. I have really enjoyed myself in the

18 months I have been here. I have been doing and going out more than I ever have done.”

A couple of the flats are currently empty. Caroline Bridge would urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible to come and have a look. “Riverside isn’t what most people expect. It’s about people living as they please, but knowing they can have support, if they need it.”

Residents on a trip to Tredegar House in Newport.

Tai Calon has 11 sheltered housing complexes. If you would like more information contact Anthony Rowson, Sheltered Housing team leader on 0300 303 1717.

A lot of people get the wrong impression about sheltered housing. To them it’s somewhere dull where residents just wait out their days. But that couldn’t be further from the truth, says the residents of Riverside Flats at Blaina.

Sheltered Shout 2

Caroline Bridge in one of the empty flats Riverside.

RSVP has been going since 1988 and has money from the Big Lottery AdvantAge Programme to fund its work in the county for five years.

Retired Gwent police officer Andy Harris is the project development co-ordinator. “RSVP is aimed at people aged 50 and over. It is about being a friend to someone, visiting them, taking them out and giving them an interest again. It’s about taking away their feelings of loneliness and isolation.”

Andy Harris is looking for “befrienders” as well as older volunteers to help him run the scheme. He needs someone to help set up a register of the groups, clubs and associations in the area which would be of interest to someone who is 50 plus.

“We take care to place our volunteers in a project where they can use their skills and experience. If further training is appropriate, it can be arranged if the volunteer thinks it would be useful,” he said.

Welcome Friends is to run initially at Davey Evans Court, one of Tai Calon’s supported housing schemes at Abertillery.

“It is awful to think of anyone being lonely. We at Tai Calon want to do what we can to help. I am sure there are tenants who would like to become volunteers, as well as others who would really benefit from the services of RSVP,” said Anthony Rowson, Sheltered Housing Team Leader.

A Friend is ...

Should tenants in sheltered housing be able to keep pets? Tai Calon Community Housing wants to know your views. At the moment it isn’t allowed, but we are now considering a number of options.

1. Keeping the ban in place2. Allowing tenants to keep a pet, subject to

certain conditions. 3. New tenants can bring one pet with them.

But it can not be replaced when the pet dies. Let us know what you think by contacting Anthony Rowson, Sheltered Housing team leader on 0300 303 1717.

Please remember to ask your guests to sign the visitor’s book on their arrival at your complex. It is important that we have a record of who is

visiting in case of a fire or another emergency. For everyone’s safety, please make sure that all visitors enter and leave the complex by the main entrance.

We are also carrying out a survey of our complexes to try and find suitable areas for the storage and recharging of mobility scooters. They can not be kept in communal areas or corridors because of the risk of fire.

If you have a question or a problem, please contact your scheme manager for help. We also hold regular meetings of the Sheltered Housing Committee at Solis One to discuss a wide range of issues. Everyone is welcome, ask your scheme manager for details and the date of the next meeting.

If you would like to volunteer contact Andy Harris on 01495 353343 or 07788 310444 or email andyharris.rsvp@gmail.com

Sheltered Notes

Sheltered Shout 3

Sometimes it is hard to make friends. It’s even harder as we get older or after a bereavement. A new befriending group – ‘Welcome Friends’ - has been set up by RSVP in Blaenau Gwent to help get people together.

Sometimes it doesn’t take much to make a real difference. Tenants at Peacehaven Court at Peacehaven in Tredegar have been given nearly £3,000 by Tai Calon Community Housing to spend on their garden.

Residents at the sheltered complex used some of the money to fence in the area. The remainder is going on compost and plants.

One of Tai Calon’s contractors, Seren, carried out the manual work and Green Earth arranged the delivery of the compost. The main gardener is Dennis Davies, (pictured in the greenhouse) although his friend Hywel Jones helps with the digging (as pictured).

“We have 13 planters and I have had to replant 11 of them,” says Dennis Davies. “The money has made a real difference. It had been a bit of a jungle out here, but now it should be a really nice area for people to sit and enjoy being out of doors.”

Dennis, who also has an allotment, grows a lot of his flowers and vegetables from seed. It’s a hobby he really enjoys. All he wants now is some sunshine and the garden will be really blooming.

Contact Us:If you would like to contact Tai Calon Community Housing

you can phone us on 0300 303 1717

If you wish to report a repair, enquire about your rent or would like to speak to a member of staff from Tai Calon please telephone us on 0300 303 1717

www.taicalon.org

A Blooming Business

Sheltered Shout 4

15

The pictures could be of a tree, a family pet, a place or a view, anything, as long as they were taken within Blaenau Gwent. In the next edition of the newsletter we will be printing details of where to send your photographs and the closing date for the competition.

The 12 winners will have their photographs printed in the calendar and win a prize as well.

To help you take amazing pictures, Damian Vizard, our Communications and Marketing Officer, has eight tips to get you started.

1. You don’t need an expensive camera

You can take award winning photographs with a simple “point and shoot” camera. As your skills develop, you can then think about buying a more professional model.

2. Know your camera’s capabilities

Read the manual for your camera and then re-read it, several times. The more you know about how it works, the better you will become at taking photographs.

3. Using a tripod

If you want perfect, crisp images, even when the light isn’t ideal, use a tripod. It will help reduce camera vibration. Some models have an “image stabilization” setting, which performs the same job.

4. Good lighting and time of day

Visit the location you want to photograph at various times of the day, and in different weather conditions, to find that perfect moment to take your picture.

5. Change perspective

Experiment with different perspectives. Don’t just take a photo “straight on”. Try different angles, frame your subject against the background, or off-centre for a more unusual look.

6. After taking your photos

Manipulate the images by cropping or adjusting the colours. Some cameras have their own software to help you to do this. You can also find image editing programmes on the internet.

7. Expect the unexpected

Always keep your camera nearby. Sometimes the best photos are taken on the “spur of the moment”. Even if you have

an expensive camera, keep a cheaper one handy for that “once in a lifetime” picture opportunity.

8. Free help

There may be a photography club in your area. The internet is also a great source of information. Join an on-line group or watch tutorials.

Above all, have fun and just remember practice makes perfect.

Be in it ... To Win itWe are only a few months into 2012 ... but here at Tai Calon Community Housing we are already thinking about next year. That’s because we want YOU to take photographs for the 2013 Tai Calon calendar.

The idea is for staff and tenants to walk around an area to;-

• Identify improvements that they would like to see carried out to communal areas in the neighbourhood,

and

• Identify problems that detract from the appearance of the area, like litter on pathways, rubbish that has been dumped in communal areas, potholes etc.

Each neighbourhood walkabout lasts around two hours and we will provide refreshments for all those taking part.

The walkabout is not concerned with the condition of individual tenant’s gardens, that job is carried out by a dedicated team from within Tai Calon Community Housing, but about improving the

environment in which you live.

So if you fancy a breath of fresh air and the chance to be involved in deciding how to improve your area ... join us on the neighbourhood walkabouts in your neighbourhood.

We all want to live in a nice, clean and safe neighbourhood, which is why we organise regular estate walkabouts.

We all want to live in a nice, clean and safe neighbourhood, which is why we organise regular neighbourhood walkabouts.

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Neighbourhood Walkabouts

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Sirhowy Valley Neighbourhood Walkabouts - 10.00 am on TuesdaysNeighbourhood Walkabouts Area

Meeting Point Neighbourhood Walkabout Area

Meeting Point Neighbourhood Walkabout Area

Meeting Point

Sirhowy Lower - St James Way

3-Apr 10.00 am St James Way car park.

Georgetown 1-May 10.00 am in the car park opposite Peacehaven Court

Sirhowy Lower - St James Way

5-Jun 10.00 am St James Way car park.

Cefn Golau 10-Apr 10.00 am outside the Community House on Attlee Way

Cefn Golau 29-May 10.00 am outside the Community House on Attlee Way

Cefn Golau 19-Jun 10.00 am outside the Community House on Attlee Way

Tredegar Town Centre

17-Apr 10.00am in the car park at St Georges Court then 10.30 am outside Deighton School

Ashvale 15-May 10.00 am at the corner of Griffiths Gardens / Griffiths Square

Tredegar Town Centre

12-Jun 10.00am at the car park outside St Georges Court then 10.30 am outside Deighton School

Dukestown 24-Apr 10.00 am near number 1 Ystad Deri

Sirhowy - Ysguborwen

8-May 10.00 am Outside Top Shop Store, Ysgubrowen

Nantybwch & Waudeg

26-Jun 10.00 am outside the Waundeg Community Flat

Nantybwch & Waundeg

22-May 10.00 am outside the Waundeg Community Flat

If you want further information about the Tai Calon Neighbourhood Walkabouts taking place in Tredegar, please contact Kelsey Watkins, Community Involvement & Investment Officer on 0300 303 1717.

Ebbw Fawr Valley Neighbourhood Walkabouts - 12.00 am on TuesdaysNeighbourhood Walkabout Area

Meeting Point Neighbourhood Walkabout Area

Meeting Point Neighbourhood Walkabout Area

Meeting Point

Beaufort 3-Apr 12.00 pm at the car park to the rear Beaufort Ballroom. 12.30 pm Bryn Coch site entrance 12.55 pm meeting at Lansbury Terrace.

Garnlydan 22-May 12.00 pm outside Garnlydan Club, Queensway.

Rassau Lower 26-Jun 12.00 pm outside Ty Bryn Club, Rassau Road.

Hilltop Upper 24-Apr 12.00 pm outside Hilltop Shopping Centre shops.

Rassau Upper

15-May 12.00 pm outside Rassau Community Centre.

Hilltop Upper 19-Jun 12.00 pm outside Hilltop Shopping Centre shops.

Hilltop Lower 17-Apr 12.00 pm outside Hilltop Shopping Centre shops.

Briery Hill 1-May 12.00 pm outside RTB Club, Drysiog Street.

Gwaun Helyg 12-Jun 12.00 pm car park to the rear of Wordsworth Close.

Newtown 10-Apr 12.00 pm outside the entrance to Princes Court Flats.

Brynteg 8-May 12.00 pm outside Hilltop Shopping Centre shops.

Newtown 5-Jun 12.00 pm outside the entrance to Princes Court Flats.

Cwm 29-May 12.00 pm outside the entrance to the School on Curre Street.

If you want further information about the Tai Calon Neighbourhood Walkabouts taking place in Ebbw Vale, please contact Natasha Jones, Community Involvement & Investment Officer on 0300 303 1717.

Ebbw Fach Valley Neighbourhood Walkabouts - 10.00 am on ThursdaysNeighbourhood Walkabout Area

Meeting Point Neighbourhood Walkabout Area

Meeting Point Neighbourhood Walkabout Area

Meeting Point

Twyncynghordy 5-Apr 10.00 am outside Twyncynghordy Stores.

Bryn Farm 3-May 10.00 am - the entrance to the estate.

Bryn Farm 14-Jun 10.00 am - the entrance to the estate.

Winchestown 12-Apr 10.00 am at the entrance to Waunheulog estate.

Coed Cae 10-May 10.00 am outside the community centre.

Winchestown 7-Jun 10.00 am at the entrance to Waunheulog estate.

Cwmcelyn 26-Apr 10.00 am in Troed Y Bryn car park.

Ffoesmaen 24-May 10.00 am outside the ffoesmaen Inn.

Coed Cae 28-Jun 10.00 am outside the community centre.

Cwmtillery 19-Apr 10.00 am outside the entrance to Valley View.

Roseheyworth 17-May 10.00 am - Lower Arael View outside the car park near 41. 10.30 am - Upper Arael View in the car park.

Beaumont Close

31-May 10.00 am in the car park.

Brynithel 31-May 10.00 am - car park near number 1 Hafodarthen Bungalows.

If you want further information about the Tai Calon Neighbourhood Walkabouts taking place in Abertillery, Blaina & Brynmawr, please contact Chloe Williams, Community Involvement & Investment Officer on 0300 303 1717.

Regular Neighbourhood Walkabouts

Tai Calon Community Housing recognises the stress caused by anti social behaviour; such as harassment, racial harassment, domestic violence and general nuisance.

The Crime and Disorder Act 1988 introduced a legal definition for anti social behaviour as “behaving in a manner which causes or is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to one or more persons not of the same household”.

What is anti social behaviour?Anti social behaviour can come in a wide variety of forms. For any behaviour to be classed as anti social, it must be persistent. A one-off noisy party would cause disturbance to neighbours but isn’t classed as anti social behaviour. However, regular, noisy, parties would. Other examples of anti social behaviour includes, but are not limited to:

Domestic violence, using aggressive and/or threatening language or behaviour, actual violence, threats of violence,

damaging or threatening to damage someone’s property.

Hate crime is behaviour that targets groups or individuals because of their race, sexuality, physical disability, mental health issues, religion or learning difficulties.

What is nuisance behaviour?Nuisance behaviour is “behaving unreasonably in a way that affects others living nearby or using communal facilities”.

Examples of nuisance behaviour would include, but are not limited to:

Nuisance caused by pets or other animals such as dog fouling or allowing constant barking, noise nuisance caused by loud music or constant arguing, repairing vehicles in public areas, unlawful tipping or dumping of rubbish, inappropriate use of communal areas, selling or using illegal drugs, causing vandalism and graffiti.

Anti Social Behaviour and Neighbour Nuisance

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Your responsibilities under the Tenancy AgreementThe Tenancy Agreement is a legal contract between you and Tai Calon and sets out a number of conditions in exchange for you living in the property. These include, agreeing to pay your rent, reporting repairs and being responsible for every person living in, or visiting, your home, including pets and children. This also includes communal areas and the neighbourhood in which you reside.

If you breach the terms of your Tenancy Agreement, Tai Calon can enforce the agreement through court action, if there is enough evidence.

How can I be a Good Neighbour?Neighbour disputes are often caused by noise, from TVs, radios or parties, children playing, dog nuisance, cars or rubbish. Tai Calon encourages all tenants to sign a Good Neighbour Agreement in addition to the Tenancy Agreement. The Good Neighbour Agreement asks you to be considerate towards your neighbours, for example keeping TVs and music noise at a reasonable level, particularly during the evening or letting them know if you are having a party.

What can you do if you have a problem with your neighbour?If this is the first time you have experienced a problem, it may be better to do nothing, as it could be a one off incident.

However, the earlier a dispute is resolved, the better it is for everyone involved. Try talking to your neighbour, they may not be aware of the effect of their actions.

Approach your neighbour in a calm manner, at a time when they are free to talk, and explain how their behaviour is affecting you. If this does not resolve the issues, please contact Tai Calon and we will arrange for a Neighbourhood Officer to contact you to discuss the matter.

Only approach your neighbour if you feel it is safe to do so. In cases where there have been violence, threats of violence or you feel threatened please report this to the police, in the

first instance, and then Tai Calon. We will work with the police and other agencies to resolve serious cases of anti social behaviour and harassment.

How can I report anti social or nuisance behaviour?You can report anti social behaviour in a number of ways. Telephone us on 0300 303 1717 between 9.00 am – 5.00 pm Monday to Friday.Email us at info@taicalon.orgVisit us or write to us at:Solis One, Rising Sun Industrial Estate, Blaina, Blaenau Gwent NP13 3JW. www.taicalon.org

You can also make a report via a third party such as

a friend, relative or another agency

such as a Social Worker.

Nuisance behaviour would include problems caused by pets or other animals such as dog fouling or allowing constant barking.

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Can I make an anonymous complaint?All reports of anti social behaviour are confidential. We would not disclose your complaint to a third party or the person, about whom you are complaining, without your permission. However, this may limit our investigation. If the complaint is anonymous we may not have enough information or evidence to deal with it. Also, we can not take formal action without signed statements.

If the anti social behaviour is of a criminal nature, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously, 24 hours a day, on 0800 555 111. You can also contact the police – if it’s an emergency dial 999, otherwise ring 101, for example if you have witnessed a crime.

What will Tai Calon do to tackle anti social behaviour?We are committed to tackling anti social behaviour and its causes. We work with the following agencies to ensure a partnership approach to tackling anti social behaviour: Gwent Police, Community Mental Health Team, Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council, Probation Service, Youth Offending Service, support groups and agencies such as Victim Support and other registered social landlords.

The Community Safety Partnership has a responsibility to minimise crime and disorder in Blaenau Gwent. As a landlord we are committed to working with our communities to make our neighbourhood’s pleasant

and secure places to live. We will not tolerate unacceptable behaviour to our tenants or staff.

Where there is evidence of anti social behaviour, we will take action under the terms of the Tenancy Agreement to resolve the matter. This may include legal action.

What can you expect from us in cases of• Very serious Anti Social

Behaviour directed at an individual or group of individuals that can cause harm, fear and intimidation. We will make contact as a matter of urgency and action will be taken (within one working day of reported complaint) to make an assessment of your case. Action may include gathering evidence, and with your permission, talking to the alleged perpetrator, or the removal of the offensive graffiti.

• Serious anti social behaviour that because of its nature and frequency; causes fear and intimidation. We will contact you within 2 working days of receiving the complaint and action will be taken by us within five working days”

• Behaviour, which may be a breach of tenancy but is not serious by nature or frequency and is not personally targeted. We will contact you within 5 working days and action will be started within ten working days.

Investigating your Complaint and Taking Action:If you complain to us about anti social or nuisance behaviour, we will work with you to resolve the problem. We will take your complaint seriously and record the details. We will allocate the case to a named officer for investigation. We will develop a plan of action with you. We will keep you informed while we investigate the complaint. We will offer you support and ask other agencies, such as the police, to take action where necessary. We will explain to you our reasons for closing your case, before doing so.

Sources of Further Information and Advice:Blaenau Gwent Council – C2BG helpline 01495 311556 for the following council departments:

Environmental health department, social services department.

Community Safety Partnership, recycling and waste disposal team.

Blaenau Gwent Domestic Abuse Service – 01495 291202 www.bgdas.co.uk

Crimestoppers – 0800 555 111 In an emergency dial 999 and ask for the police, otherwise 101.

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DON’T LOSE

EVERYTHING

INSURE YOUR POSSESSIONS

Call Tai Calon Community Housing

0300 303 1717

in association with

Each area will be cut around once every three weeks. However the schedule can change because of the weather.

It is normal to continue cutting flat areas during wet weather, although banks will be avoided.

An area of 18 inches will be left around the base of trees to prevent damaging the trunks. Other obstacles will be left clean and tidy.

Areas where bulbs have been planted, or have become naturalised, will not be cut for a minimum of six weeks until after they have finished flowering.

The Green Earth teams will follow the routes listed below:

Ebbw Fach Valley

• Swffrydd/Grace Pope Court• Brynithel• Six Bells• Cwmtillery West• Cwmtillery East• Blaenau Gwent Rows• Roseheyworth• Blaina Bungalows• Llys y Capel/Riverside• East Pentwyn• Southlands• Cwmcelyn• Coed Cae• Forgeside/East View.

Ebbw Fawr Valley

• Cwm• Newtown

• Glyn Coed• Beaufort/Bryn Coch• Gurnos/Bryn Farm• Brynmawr Town area• Winchestown• Roundhouse Close• Wesley Buildings/Limestone Road/Banna Bungalows

• Princes St Flats• Cae Glas• Hilltop• Briery Hill.

Sirhowy Valley

• Peacehaven• St James Way• Sirhowy• Ystrad Deri• Scwrfa• Rassau• Garnlydan• Waundeg• Gwent Way/Ashvale• St Georges Court/Oliver Jones• Cefn Golau.

Grass CuttingGreen Earth, which looks after the green spaces for Tai Calon Community Housing, expects to start grass cutting across the three valleys at the beginning of April.

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Tenant Board Member ElectionsAre You a Tenant of Tai Calon?We have made lots of promises to our tenants and communities about what we will do. Our mission is to “Deliver our promises, improving homes and lives.”

Do You Want to Make a Difference?

Are you enthusiastic and committed to Blaenau Gwent and its communities? Do you want to help us make our business the best?

If the answers are yes,

Would YOU be Willing to Join Our Board of Management?Our board is made up of 5 independent members, 5 tenants and 5 council nominees.

WANT TO LEARN MORE?Please contact Jayne Lewis, Assistant Company Secretary,

on 0300 303 1717 or by email, jaynel@taicalon.org. Information sessions will be held on Wednesday, 16th May,

between 12.45 pm - 3pm and 5.30 pm – 7.45 pm.

Board members at Tai Calon share responsibility for:

• Setting objectives and agreeing the plans to achieve those objectives

• Approving our budget and accounts

• Monitoring our performance against agreed plans and budgets; and

• Making sure that the affairs of the organisation are conducted in a proper manner.

You will need to:

• Be able to devote at least 5 hours per month to attend Board meetings. These are currently held on the evening of the 4th Monday of each month at our offices at Solis One.

• Attend training sessions and

• “Away Days”

The position is voluntary, however, you will be paid expenses.

For every two hours a tenant or community member works with the organisation, it gives them a time credit under the Time Banking scheme.

Volunteers can then cash in their time credits on a range of activities. Jen Griffiths from Hilltop in Ebbw Vale treated herself and her sister, Barbara Kershaw to a manicure at Coleg Gwent’s Hair and Beauty department in Ebbw Vale.

“I really enjoyed it and will certainly be going again. Next time Barbara and I will be having a pedicure. It is nice to think that we had the treat because I had done some work for Tai Calon,” She said.

Volunteers receive credits for a wide range of activities. In fact, for every thing from attending committee meetings, to taking part in surveys, being a member of a tenant and residents association to undertaking environmental and community projects.

Jen Griffiths needed just one time credit for her manicure. She could also have spent them at sports centres operated by Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council, the EVI (Formally the Ebbw Vale Institute) Supertubing

at the Garden Festival site and on day trips organised by Tai Calon.

Recently a group visited Cardiff Bay and Techniquest at a cost of four time credits per family. David Grainger Jones and Zelda Thomas really enjoyed the trip. They agreed with Mike Roberts who described it as an excellent day all round. “If all tenants got involved with the scheme they too can go on excursions. The scheme is well worth it,” he said.

Mike’s grandchildren, Lucy Holly and Casey Stevens, also thought it great fun, particularly the Bubble and Blast show.

Time Banking partners also offer other great deals as well. From now until the end of October, 2012, Tai Calon tenants can benefit from a 20% discount at the Supertubing

experience at The Festival Park, Ebbw Vale. Simply show a copy of this newsletter on arrival to get your special offer of just £4 for five awesome rides – see www.supertubing.co.uk. Only one discount offer per family. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Photocopies of newsletter are not accepted.

Time to Say

Thank YouIt is nice to get a “thank you” and that is why Tai Calon Community Housing likes to reward its volunteers.

For more information on Time Banking, or ways of getting involved, please contact Chloe Williams on 0300 303 1717.

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What’s HappeningTenant FundayThe 2012 Tai Calon Tenant funday is taking place on Saturday, July 21st. It will be held at our headquarters at Solis One in Blaina. There will be lots to do and enjoy.

Community Events

Tai Calon will be taking part in the Neighbourhoods Together Funday at the Star Centre in Sirhowy on Wednesday, 11th April, and Thursday, 12th April.

Let us know if you are planning any events.

This summer the Olympic Games are being hosted in the UK. Eight thousand people will be carrying the Olympic Flame during the Torch Relay.

The torch comes to Blaenau Gwent on Friday, 25th May, when it travels through Brynmawr.

The Queen, accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh is travelling to Blaenau Gwent as part of her Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

They arrive in Wales on Thursday, 26th April and are visiting Cardiff, Margam, Merthyr Tydfil, Aberfan, Ebbw Vale and Glanusk Park in Powys during their two day stay.

To mark 60 years of The Queen’s reign a number of key events are planned for early June. The late May bank holiday has been moved to Monday, 4th June, and there will be an additional Jubilee bank holiday on Tuesday, 5th June.

Residents at Newtown and Peacehaven Court at Peacehaven in Tredegar are already planning to hold parties to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Amanda Davies who made the cake to celebrate last year’s Royal wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

If you would like the latest, up-to-the-minute, news from Tai Calon Community Housing ...

Text “newsletter” to 07797 871717.

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