LMH Summer Newsletter 2015

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FOCUS AWARDS 2015 DIGITAL HUB UPDATE VIP GRADUATION PICNIC IN THE PARK COMPETITIONS & MORE ISSUE 15 / JULY 2015 INSIDE THIS ISSUE MONEY MATTERS SPECIAL PULL OUT EDITION

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Transcript of LMH Summer Newsletter 2015

FOCUS AWARDS 2015DIGITAL HUB UPDATE

VIP GRADUATION PICNIC IN THE PARK

COMPETITIONS & MORE

Eco friendly My LMH - Would you like to do your bit for the environment and receive your copy of My LMH by email? If you’d like to ‘go greener’, and receive your copy by email, please send your name and address to [email protected] or call the Communications Team.

ISSUE 15 / JULY 2015

Head Office @ The Observatory, 1 Old Haymarket, Liverpool, L1 6RA.

[email protected] www.liverpoolmutualhomes.org

LMH Connect0800 678 1894

Childline0800 1111

Crime Stoppers0800 555 111

Emergency Gas Leaks0800 111 999 24 hour

Emergency Water Leaks0800 330 033 24 hour

NHS Advice111

The Samaritans08457 909 090 (national)0151 708 8888 (local)

Drugs / Alcohol helpline0800 776 600 / 0800 917 8282

Age Concern0151 330 5678

Careline0151 233 3800

Benefits Service0151 233 3009

Council Tax0151 233 3008

RAISE (Welfare Rights)0151 291 7850

RSPCA 24 hours cruelty line0300 1234 999

Liverpool Direct 0151 233 3000 / 3001

Domestic Violence helpline freephone0808 2000 247 24 hour

Useful Numbers

This newsletter is printed on FSC® Mix paper, using vegetable oil based ink and is 100% recyclable. It is sourced from a printer that is fully FSC® certified and is working towards ISO4001.Please consider the environment and recycle.

INSIDE THIS ISSUEMONEY MATTERS

SPECIAL PULL OUT EDITION

Historically, 0800 telephone calls have been free when dialled from a landline, but mobile users have usually been charged. This is why LMH Connect currently has two numbers. 0800 678 1894 is the free to landline number and 0300 123 2300 is charged at local rate for both landline and mobile phones.

From 1 July 2015, as part of the UK Calling changes, all numbers starting 0800 will become free for all customers including mobile phone users. It is our intention to phase out use of the 0300 number as this will no longer be required. Over time you will therefore see changes in our literature and branding but you will still be able to get through using the 0300 number for now.

We do our very best to keep you informed about the welfarereforms that may impact on you and your family through a variety of routes, including this newsletter. Often, however, people find themselves in difficulty and hardship and don’t come to us for advice or help until the situation is bad and debts have mounted up.

The roll out of Universal Credit is still in its infancy and only a small number of our tenants are affected, but manymore will move ‘Over to ‘U’ in the coming year and the Government has signalled that more welfare reforms are on the way. I cannot stress enough that LMH is willing to help you to make sure that you are getting the right benefits, able to access on-line services including benefit application, on the best fuel tariff, given debt and money management advice and sign-posted to training and work opportunities. Remember, our staff are friendly and knowledgeable and want to help you to sustain your tenancy and maximise your income. There is practical financial advice in ‘Money Matters’ on page 11.

Community Investment ProgrammeWe are proud of the growing programme of community initiatives that LMH invests in to improve our homes, neighbourhoods and quality of life for our tenants. Some projects are showcased in this newsletter, for example the ‘Picnics in the Park’ that are so well attended by our tenants and residents and by people who would like to live in our homes.

We welcome ideas from our tenants to improve our programme of activities. If you have an idea or If you see gaps in service provision or something that bothers you that we could perhaps address, then please let us know. If you see opportunities for LMH to work in partnership, then please let us know. Our Community Regeneration and Customer Involvement teams will be happy to meet to discuss your ideas.

Retirement homes not for you? Think again...LMH has invested in all of our sheltered accommodation schemes over the past couple of years. The works to communal areas are coming to an end with Shallcross Court the final scheme to go on site. Many schemes have been completely refurbished with beautiful communal areas including lounges with luxurious soft furnishings; laundries; hair salons; games rooms; gardens; scooter stores, and I.T. suites complete with computers and wifi. Of course many people simply want a good quality home with a beautiful kitchen and bathroom where they can feel safe and close their front door – and all our schemes have these!

Come along to our open day at Handel Court on the 7th August (see pg.9) or you can contact our Independent Living Team via LMH Connect to view any of the appartments. They can advise you about the cost and demand for a scheme and how long you might wait and also give you any other information you might need to make an informed decision about whether sheltered housing is for you.

I’d like to wish you and your family a happy, safe and sunny summer.

Angela Forshaw, Director of Landlord Services

Ringing in the changes Free Activities This SummerThe summer holidays are almost here, so we thought we would share some ideas for activities to keep the whole family entertained:

Make It MondayEvery Monday in the summer holidays you can drop in to the Walker Art Gallery to make, create and take home a wonderful work of art. Walker Art Gallery, William Brown Street, Liverpool. 1-4pm, July 27; August 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31

Rice Lane City FarmVisit the Rice Lane City Farm with its pigs, sheep, goats and ponies. You can pet some of the smaller animals or go on the nature trail. Admission is free (a donation is welcome if you can afford it). There is also a free youth club every Monday evening for 8-13 year olds. Tel: 0151 530 1066.Rawcliffe Rd, Liverpool, Merseyside - Open seven days a week from 10am-3.30pm

Liverpool International Music Festival (LIMF)LIMF takes place from the 27- 31 August with concerts and activities across the city. Make sure you check out the Summer Jam at Sefton Park on the 29th and 30th of August; it’s free with some top acts including: Basement Jaxx, Labrinth, and Katy B and Laura Mvula.

Visit the Aquarium at the Liverpool World Museum The aquarium is based inside of the National Museum of Liverpool and is free for the public to visit any time of the week. You can see tropical fish that come from all around the world and go to free demonstrations of how the fish live and where they come from.

Liverpool ParksThere are many parks in Liverpool that are lovely and worth a visit including Calderstones, Croxteth park, Walton park, Sefton park and many more. Parks often have events on in the summer

Why not visit the newly restored festival gardens it’s the perfect place to pack up a picnic and go and relax for the day and enjoy the new gardens. The gardens are open 7 days a week.

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My YoungLMH

COMPETITION WINNER! Congratulations to:

Maria Miller Age 12 from

Edge Lane Drive who won

a £10 voucher after finding

the 3 Queens in our Spring Newsletter.

FEEDBACK

Your views are very important to us

If you would like to discuss the content of this newsletter or have an article you would like to include in a future edition

then please contact Karen Cox on:

or email us at:[email protected]

Did you know that LMH has its own Facebook

and Twitter pages where we advertise all our

initiatives and activities, such as available jobs,

funding opportunities, things to do for Children

and how to get involved in LMH.

Why don’t you like our Facebook page or follow

us on Twitter to keep up to date and find out

what’s available for you!

Rainbow is our group for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual and Intersex (LGBTI)

people and their friends and family. It’s a ‘place’ where you can give your views about

the issues that are affecting you and help us

to make sure our services for LGBTI people

are accessible and supportive. Search for LMH Rainbow on Facebook and ask to join the group today.

Come along and see the Sweet Pea & Rose

Show on Saturday & Sunday 25th & 26th July

and the Flower & Vegetable Show on Saturday

& Sunday 8th & 9th August in the Marquee at

Dobbies Garden Centre Speke Boulevard.

For further information please contact Karen

Bell on 0151 425 5668 or check out the

website at www.liverpoolflowershow.com

SUMMER IS HEREThere’s loads of FREE Children’s activities over the summer holidays, please read the My Young LMH section at the back of this newsletter to find some examples of what’s on for children and don’t forget to enter the competition for the chance to WIN a £10 gift voucher.

NOW RECRUITING VIPsLMH are now looking for people to sign up for our VIP programme which is starting in September 2015. See page 5 for information on the latest graduates who have completed the course Call 0800 678 1894to sign up today!

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NoticeBoard

Loving Lodge Lane

Loving Lodge Lane is an annual three day community festival which celebrates everything that is good about the area and highlights the great work that people are doing to improve their neighbourhood.

LMH was involved in the event in June giving away free hanging baskets, getting the views of local people about their area, helpingto clean up the streets and promoting recycling initiatives.

There were also opportunities for training from the Adult Learning Services Bus and health advice from the Liverpool City Council Public Health Team. Those interested in growing fruit and vegetables picked up advice and free strawberry planters from Granby Toxteth Development Trust’s Grow Your Own project. The festival is a great way to celebrate the area and everyone involved in its regeneration. We were pleased to be involved with our partners to help make a difference in the neighbourhood.

Sprucing up the AreaWe recently had a Community Impact Day at Thornside Walk in Woolton, helping to clean up the area and speaking to residents about any issues they may have on the estate. Our South Housing team and Customer Involvement Officer spent a day with our partners, including HMS and the Community Payback Team, working with residents to make the area a cleaner, greener environment to live in.

We invited residents aboard DIANE, our LMH Exhibition vehicle, to give us their views by completing a Community Impact Survey in exchange for a free planted hanging basket and fruit bag. The surveys help us to find out what local people feel about their neighbourhood and how it can be improved. We also made community skips available for residents to get rid of any unwanted items.

One resident said that they thought that the local environment is fantastic since LMH has been improving the estate with regular grass cutting, pruning and clean ups. To find out if there is a community impact day coming to you please contact the Customer Involvement Team on 0800 678 1894

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SouthHousing

Help Support West Everton Community CouncilWest Everton Community Council (WECC) has been one of the cornerstones of the Everton Community since 1965.

They are a resident led organisation that give a voice to local people, helping to pin down the issues that are most affecting the community and finding ways to deal with them.

They do a massive amount of work with local people including a community cafe, a pensioners lunch club, play schemes, giving advice on housing and health, family support, and much more.

They were based at The Friary on Bute Street in a warm, safe and friendly community hub where everyone was made to feel welcome but the centre was recently the victim of an arson attack. This put it out of use for around 3 months but they have not been beaten and are now working as WECC ON WHEELS using other local facilities and Portakabins to continue their fantastic work.

WECC are looking for any contributions towards the rebuild and refurbishment costs. If you would like to contribute please contact Ann Roach on 0151 282 0320

Keeping it Clean and Going Green!The Westminster Road Estate has been undergoing a major transformation over the past couple of years. LMH, working together with the tenants, residents’ group and other partners has transformed what was once deemed a rundown estate into a thriving vibrant community.

The latest edition to the turnaround is the introduction of the blue recycling bins. After consultation with the residents Liverpool City Council has supplied the bins and special bags for the tenants to carry their recyclable waste down from the flats.

It’s just another welcome addition to the ongoing improvements on the estate. The change to the estate is a testament of all the work LMH, the residents group and our partners have put in. The residents group is very active and also run job clubs and internet training sessions.

The residents group office is open on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays 10am – 12noon and there is also a job club on Friday afternoons. Why not pop down and get involved. Their address is 2 Tees Street, Liverpool L4 3TS. You can also call them on 0151 922 8825.

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NorthHousing

LMH

NEIGHBOUR

OF THE YEAR

ELAINE DOOLAN

SEE PAGE 25

LMH VOLUNTEER OF THE YEARANN ROACH SEE PAGE 25

Look out for your new mobile fruit and veg van that will be delivering in your neighbourhood. LMH are working in partnership with U R What U Eat. The vans will provide fresh fruit and veg at low prices.

To find out delivery routes please contact the Community Regeneration Team on 0800 678 1894 or look on the LMH website for more details. ‘Toot toot here comes your veg and fruit’ was the winning entry of our competition for a slogan for this service. Well done to Miss Cain from Kensington who was the lucky winner of Christmas dinner paid for by LMH (a £100 Asda food voucher and a fruit and veg hamper).

Children’s Health Bursaries Our Children’s Health Bursaries are a great way to get your children active for the summer. LMH can offer customers the opportunity to apply for funding for their children to take part in any physical activity such as 8 weeks swimming, 12 weeks cheerleading or 6 weeks football training courses.

To find out more or to request an application form please contact the Community Regeneration Team.

School Holiday CampsFollowing on from the success last year, the Community Regeneration team are taking the details of children between 5 – 14 who live in LMH homes and are interested in joining this year’s school holiday camps. The camps are free and run throughout the summer holidays with the exception of bank holidays. Sessions will run from 9.30am – 3.30pm Monday - Friday and a healthy lunch will be provided. Please contact the team to register your child today.

Rise and ShineThe Community Regeneration team, have been working with LINX4Life to deliver the Rise and Shine Big Dance programme to a number of schools in our neighbourhoods during National School Sport Week 2015. The programme encouraged high energy play and mass participation in physical activity. The young people came together before lessons began and carried out a simple fun routine that they will continue to do each day to help them get motivated, active and ready to face the day.

For more info or to get involved in any of these activities contact the Community Regeneration Team Please call on 0800 678 1894 or email [email protected]

CommunityRegen

Scores of tenants and residents who have taken part in our scheme to help them back into work and improve their wellbeing graduated in a special ceremony at Goodison Park attended by Liverpool’s Deputy Mayor Councillor Ann O’Byrne. A total of 34 tenants and residents took part in the Volunteers into Placement (VIP) scheme, which launched in January 2015 for LMH Tenants who are aged 16 and over, unemployed and wanting to get back into work.

The VIP scheme started in January and those taking part were given support to overcome any barriers which might stop them from learning and help to build their confidence, self-esteem and wellbeing. The VIPs, who ranged from 16 – 61 met once a week for a session that ran from 10am – 2pm. They also completed first aid and health and safety courses.

In April all VIPs went onto a 10 week voluntary work experience placement in an industry of their choice, giving each of them work experience and a chance to build on and develop new skills. Some 20 have now been employed by LMH on a six-month, fixed-term contract for 16-hours-a-week and four have already found work. Each VIP participant was supported by LMH and our partners including Eduk8, Housing Diversity Network, Career Connect, BikeRight! and Merseytravel.

We are recruiting for our next group, which will start on Thursday 17th September. If you are interested in taking part please contact: Danielle Azanuwha at [email protected] or call 0800 678 1894.

With the importance of health and wellbeing in mind, we are offering LMH tenants a chance to apply for a free 8 week swimming pass to be used in any Lifestyles sports centres.

In order for the pass to be beneficial, customers must agree to use it at least twice a week. The passes will only be given to tenants who are not in breach of their tenancy agreement, this includes being in arrears or committing antisocial behaviour. To apply please contact the Community Regeneration team.

Graduation Success as Tenants Go Back to Work

FREE Swimming Passes

For more info or to get involved in any of these activities contact the Community Regeneration Team Please call on 0800 678 1894 or email [email protected]

CommunityRegen

Job Search, IT Training & More

DAY LOCATION TRAINING TYPE TIME

Monday LMH @ Clubmoor, 181 Townsend Lane, L13 9DY Job Club 10am - 12noon

Monday LMH @ Clubmoor, 181 Townsend Lane, L13 9DY I.T. Training 2pm - 4pm

Tuesday 48 The Green, Broadgreen, L13 4BX I.T. Training 2pm - 4pm

Wednesday Parkhill Sheltered Scheme, Parkhill Road, Dingle, L8 9XD I.T. Training 10am - 12noon

Wednesday 1 Citron Close, Walton, L9 1LG I.T. Training 1pm - 3pm

Thursday L6 Community Centre, Queens Road, Everton, L6 2NF I.T. Training 10am - 12noon

Thursday LMH @ the Observatory, 1 Old Haymarket, L1 6RA Job Club 10am - 12noon

Thursday LMH @ the Observatory, 1 Old Haymarket, L1 6RA I.T. Training 1pm - 4pm

Friday Bridge Chapel, Heath Road, Garston, L19 4XR Job Club/I.T. Training 10am - 12noon

Friday 54 Dalemeadow Road, L14 5PL I.T. Training 10:30am - 12:30pm

Friday 2 Tees Street, Kirkdale, L4 3TS Job Club 1:30pm - 3:30pm

* Job Match is free and enables you to search and apply on one of the largest job boards in Europe.

Not sure how to use a computer or the internet? If you would like to find work, improve your skills, or register for Universal Credit or Universal Job Match* come along to your local LMH Job Club and I.T. training sessions at one of our digital hubs. Our friendly staff are happy to help you find a job and become computer-literate at a pace that suits you; learn many new online skills, including:

• Searching and applying for jobs • Paying your utility bills • Managing your finances • Shopping • Social media (Twitter, Facebook, etc.) • Finding the best prices for products and services

To find out more contact the Community Regeneration Team on: 0800 678 1894 or email [email protected]. We deliver in the following hubs:

• I.T Training, tenant only, must be booked via the Regeneration team • Job Clubs are drop in for any member of the public

Sessions are also available for customers who wish to use the computers without the help of staff at the following locations and times: Monday-Friday: 8:30am - 5:30pm - LMH Observatory, 1 Old Haymarket, L1 6RA.Monday-Friday: 9am - 5pm - LMH Clubmoor, 181 Townsend Lane, L13 9DY.Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 10am - 12noon Westminster Estate office, 2 Tees Street, L4 3TS.

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CommunityRegen

Joe’s Journey to Digital Skills and Employment An LMH tenant has gained employment, after 12 months of looking for work, with the aid of new I.T. skills, which he developed from training at one of LMH’s digital hubs.

Joe started his journey 6 months ago and came with very basic I.T. knowledge. After starting the course he now has many new skills and is thrilled. Best of all, Joe has gained employment with his local Sainsbury’s store after completing their online application.

You can learn lots of new skills at a digital hubs including: • How to use a keyboard and mouse • How a computer works • Create MS Word documents• Using the internet • Emailing • How to fill in online application forms• Social media (Twitter, Facebook) • Price comparisons online • And much more!

Digital skills can be used in all areas of your life for social and professional purposes. At LMH we are committed to helping our tenants gain the skills that they need to improve their lives.

Joe said about his experience: “What got me started was receiving an LMH booklet through the post and seeing an advert about a tenant who’d found work via LMH. I had been unemployed for over 12 months after being made redundant from a long term job with Royal Mail. Reading the booklet got me thinking that maybe I should get in touch and try and do something to boost my confidence and my chances of getting a job.”

Dalemeadow’s Digital Hub is situated at 54 Dalemeadow Road L14 5PL and is open from 10:30am – 12:30pm. Just drop in and start the journey to improve your digital skills.

Did You Know?

The Government’s Digital Inclusion Task Force want to help 17 million people who are currently digitally excluded. This means helping people become capable of using and benefiting from the internet. During the year 2014-2015 LMH helped 208 people (including 162 tenants) with I.T. Training and Job Clubs. As a result, 25 LMH tenants gained employment in 2014-2015. Many more have received help to improve their employability, write professional CVs, complete applications & prepare for interviews.

Move Over Alan Sugar! LMH & Rotunda College have formed an exciting new partnership to help local residents who want to set up their own business. A qualified Business Advisor will help develop your ideas, provide practical advice & help answer all the big questions. You will have opportunity to attend workshops, as well as 1-to-1 sessions, which are designed to make setting up your own business as simple & hassle-free as possible. If you are interested, email [email protected] or call LMH connect.

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CommunityRegen

The sun was shining when Vensall and Telford Court Tenant and Resident Association organised a joint outing for over 45 Residents from the Old Swan and Edge Hill areas. Travelling down by coach to Bury they boarded one of the oldest running steam trains owned by the East Lancashire Railway.

Residents had a fantastic view of the countryside on a journey to the Lancashire town of Rawtenstall, boasting cobbled streets, stone architecture and dramatic landscapes. From here they picked up the coach for an onward journey to Oswaldtwistle Mills, a former weaving mill that is now a shopping village, garden centre and textile museum.

After a 2 course meal residents spent the day shopping for bargains before boarding the coach for the journey home. A great day was had by all and funded via Liverpool Mutual Homes Community Initiative Fund in the South area. Events like these combat isolation for our older tenants in our sheltered schemes. For an application form for the Community Initiative Fund please contact the Customer Involvement Team on 0800 678 1894.

It was a rainy day in May but that didn’t stop our Shareholders and members of our Tenants and Residents Associations attending the first LMH Tenants and Residents Association and Shareholder Conference held at the Marriott Hotel.

The day started with breakfast before Steve Coffey, LMH Chief Executive spoke about the future of LMH and what’s been happening in the past 12 months. Angela Forshaw, Director of Landlord Services, talked about how Universal Credit is affecting people and how LMH can support those customers who are affected by Welfare Reform.

Garry Croll, Assistant Director (Housing), spoke about the LMH Customer Access review which was followed by individual table discussions on how we can improve the services we offer to our customers.The conference ended with a session for customers to ask any questions that they had. Customers also spoke to individual staff and service providers, including our partner Liverpool Mutual in Work, at a number of information stands.

The feedback from customers was that the day was excellent and very informative. If you would like any further information on the conference, please contact Karen Cox Customer Involvement Officer on 0800 678 1894.

All Aboard!!!

An Important First for LMH and its Customers

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CustomerInvolvement

Over 55 & Looking for a New Home? Set in a quiet residential area of Speke, close to Liverpool Airport and the local shopping area, Alderwood Lodge has excellent transport links to the city centre and across Liverpool. Purpose built for people aged 55 and over with 37 one bedroom self contained apartments and 24 one bedroom bungalows. A perfect solution for anyone wanting to downsize.

Each apartment has modern, high specification finishes including a fitted kitchen with white goods and a contemporary bathroom, most with a level access shower. The main block benefits from a number of communal facilities including: • Bright, spacious, comfortable lounge • Communal computer equipment • Free WIFI in the foyer and lounge • Laundry & hair salon with modern equipment • Large conservatory that looks out over the garden

The residents living in the bungalows can also enjoy the communal lounge and join in with all the activities that take place, such as pamper and relaxation therapies. Alderwood Lodge is also a safe and secure environment with CCTV, secure fob access to the main building, 24 hour emergency response through the warden call system and a dedicated manager present in the building during the week. If you are over 55 years old and would like more information or would like to view Alderwood Lodge call Kerry Connor on 0151 425 4562 or 0800 678 1894.

Help on Hand 24 Hours a DayLive independently with the confidence that if you have an accident or a fall you can get help quickly at any time - day or night, 365 days a year. This simple personal alarm:

• can be worn around the neck, wrist or on a belt. • uses your own telephone line to contact a trained operator

who will raise the alarm or contact a family member or friend

The cost of the service is £1.49 per week, with an installation charge of £25.00. This can be paid by direct debit or with a payment card. If you would like further information please call the Team on 0151 235 2301, we can arrange a home visit and demonstration.

Sheltered Open Day & Garden PartyOur Sheltered Housing Team would like to invite you along to an open day to be held at Handel Court, Lodge Lane L8 0XS on Friday 7th August 2015 11am -3pm.

Come along for refreshments, entertainment and information on homes for people aged 55 and over. You can also take a tour of the building, have a look at our improved facilities and much more.

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Sheltered Housing

MIKE PEARMAIN, DEVELOPMENT OFFICERMy career in Social Housing has spanned over 13 years since graduating with both a degree and masters in Urban Regeneration and Renewal.

I initially started as a Development Assistant, before progressing up to Project Manager level. In that time, I have been involved in a wide range of affordable, private sale, supported and extra care housing schemes. Before starting at LMH in June 2013, I was lucky enough to take some time out exploring South East Asia.

At LMH, I am one of the Development Officers responsible for the delivery of proposals to develop up to 1000 new properties by 2016. This includes both new build homes and refurbishment of empty properties. I am currently involved with a major regeneration scheme within the Granby Four Streets area of Liverpool 8 that will see up to 50 derelict houses brought back into use.

FOCUS ON AN LMH OFFICER

MEET INVOLVED LMH TENANT JIM ROEBURYI have lived in Liverpool for sixteen years now after travelling around through my work as a shop fitter. My background is woodworking; being a cabinet maker by trade. I gained an insight in to how the public sector works when carrying out improvement works for Neath Council and working for Permadoor, a Company supplying and overseeing the installation of front doors to local authorities throughout the country.

My first experience of any involvement in LMH came when I attended an Annual General Meeting on my local estate and wanted to find out more, so I joined the Tenants and Residents Association. I still help out in the local office and get to hear tenants’ problems and thoughts first hand. Only through the work we do on the Scrutiny Panel do I feel LMH can really get to know how tenants and residents feel about the business and how they would like to see it work.

RON’S POSITIVE ABOUT THE PPP!The PPP is, as the title suggests, very positive. It is the tenants’ voice of the 17 sheltered schemes managed by LMH, where constructive dialogue can take place. The meetings take place approximately every 6 weeks and alongside information from LMH there are also guest speakers in attendance and new representatives are always welcome.

From a more personal view I have been a member of the Positive Peoples Platform (PPP) since it was first set up and it has gone from strength to strength winning a North West Region Participation award from TPAS (the tenant empowerment organisation), getting involved with LMH TV on various projects and going to seminars on the changing needs of sheltered housing, how it fits into the modern view of housing and how it is to develop for the future. If you live in sheltered accomodation and want to find out more about the PPP please contact LMH on 0800 678 1894.

GETTING INVOLVED

POSITIVE PEOPLES PLATFORM

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Focus On

MoneyMatters

SUMMER EDITION

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Universal CreditWhat you

need to know

What is the UC Claimant

Commitment? Notice Board Help, support

& advice

Christmas is Coming! Save with a

Credit Union

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MoneyMatters

Money Matters

If you are of working age, fit for work and claiming certain benefits, you will eventually have to make a claim for Universal Credit. Below are some of the basic facts about Universal Credit:

Universal Credit replaces the following benefits:

• Job Seekers Allowance• Housing Benefit• Working Tax Credit• Child Tax Credit• Employment & Support Allowance • Income Support

Most people will have to make their claim and update any changes in circumstances online.

To receive Universal Credit you will have to sign and agree to a Claimant Commitment, which says what you must do to prepare for and find work.

Your Universal Credit will be paid monthly in arrears into a bank, post office or a credit union account. If you don’t have an account you will need to open one.

Universal Credit will replace Housing Benefit, so your payment will include your rent and will be paid directly to you. You must pay the money you receive to cover your rent immediately to us.

See our Money Matters noticeboard for the different ways in which you can pay your rent. (Page 14)

Failure to pay your rent could result in you losing your home. Remember ‘Rent First’.

Please note that these are the general rules in relation to Universal Credit – in some cases due to your circumstances they may vary. If you want help to understand Universal Credit please contact us on 0800 678 1894.

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What is a Claimant Commitment?To receive Universal Credit you must agree to a Claimant Commitment, which says what you have to do to prepare for and find work. (It is your contract with the Department for Work & Pensions.)

Once you have made an online claim for Universal Credit you will be invited for an interview with a DWP Job Centre Plus advisor; this is when you will be asked to sign your Claimant Commitment agreement. Your Claimant Commitment will depend on your circumstances and include what steps you must take to find work or, if you are already in work, the steps you must take to find better paid work (these are known as your work related requirements).

In most cases you will have to spend 35 hours a week looking for work - this may vary depending on your circumstances. You must tell the Job Centre advisor at your interview if there is anything that will limit you to prepare and look for work. Things such as having to look after children, having a disability or poor computer skills may have an impact on your ability to keep your work related requirements.

If you don’t keep your Claimant Commitment you may be sanctioned which means your Universal Credit could be reduced or stopped. As your rent forms part of your Universal Credit payment this will also stop and if you can’t pay your rent you are at risk of losing your home. Remember ‘Rent First’. LMH want to help our tenants keep their Claimant Commitment so that they will not be sanctioned. We can offer:

• IT training• Job search sessions • Employment support & advice

(c.v. / interview techniques)• Advice in relation to training

to help you back into work

For more information about the support we can offer, contact the Regeneration Team. If you need any further help or advice with regard to Universal Credit/your Claimant Commitment, contact our Welfare Reform Team who may be able to help you. Email: [email protected]

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Money Matters

Don’t delay contact us today Remember Rent First

Failure to pay your rent could result in you losing your home please use all the support available to you to plan ahead and keep on top of your finances

Community Regeneration • I.T. Training / Universal Job

Searching Sessions

(a free service that enables you

to search for and apply for jobs)

• Employment support / advice

through Liverpool Mutual In Work

• Support with children’s sporting

activities (Health Bursaries)

• Free Children’s School

Holiday Clubs.

Contact us now

Worrying about paying your bills? Our specialist advisors will visit you in your home and offer help, advice and support if you are worrying about paying your utility bills (such as gas and electricity), have arrears or just want general energy saving advice to help you save money

Are you entitled to £140?

You may be entitled to £140 to help with the cost of your electricity through the Warm Home Discount Scheme. This will depend on your circumstances and who your provider is. Our fuel debt advisors

will help you to apply.

Welfare Reform TeamOur Welfare Reform Team can help you to get extra financial support, including:

• Help with Discretionary Housing Payment applications

• Help to apply for Liverpool Citizen Support Scheme payments

• Food bank vouchers (if you are in crisis)

Plus much more help with any Welfare Reform issues you may have.

HELP I am Having Difficulty Paying My Rent!If you are having difficulties paying your rent you need to contact your Rent Officer immediately and inform them, they will be able to offer advice and support.

Ways to Pay Rent:

• Direct Debit• Standing Order• Online • With a Rent Card• With a Debit Card • Over the Phone

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14

MoneyMatters

Food Bank Vouchers LMH can issue you with a food bank

voucher if you find yourself in a crisis.

All you need to do is contact the Welfare

Reform Team or speak to a Rent Officer.

Note to self – “Rent First”

Always pay my rent and contact LMH

straight away if I am having problems.

Difficulties Managing Your Money/In Debt?

Other agencies can help, so contact us and

we will be able to put you in touch with a number of specialists:

RAISE offers advice and assistance with benefits, debts and other money issues.

New Direction helps social housing tenants to manage their money. They can help you with issues such as debt advice or setting

up a bank or credit union account.

The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) The CAB provide free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights

and responsibilities

Illegal Money Lender‘The Loan Shark’

If you have used a Loan Shark to get you out of a tight spot and are scared or being threatened for repayments ring the Illegal Money Lending Team who will give confidential help and advice.

0300 555 [email protected]

Text loan (space) shark (space) + your message to 60003

Contact usFor more information or to speak to any of

the teams, call us on:

You can also email us at:

[email protected]

15

MoneyMatters

RENT FIRSTIt is important that you always pay your rent

Why Rent First?Failure to pay your rent could result in you losing your home. LMH do not wish to evict anyone but if you don’t pay your rent we may have no alternative.

No one can live in their home rent free. Your rent helps us to look after your home and offer many additional services that support all of our tenants throughout the year.

If you are having money problems, please check out our Money Matters Notice Board on pages 14 & 15 for support that is available to you. Remember “Rent First”!

Win £50 of Shopping VouchersWould you like the chance to win a £50 Shopping Voucher for a supermarket or high street store of your choice?

LMH are looking for a slogan for its Rent First campaign. So if you can think of something that highlights the importance of putting your rent first and that is short and snappy we want to hear from you!

Please send your slogan to:

The Regeneration Team, LMH @ The Observatory1 Old Haymarket, Liverpool, L1 6RA

Please include your:

Name, Address, Contact Details and your Slogan. You can email your slogan to the [email protected] Entries must be received no later than Friday 7th August 2015.

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16

MoneyMatters

CHRISTMAS IS COMING!!!Plan Ahead Don’t Get Into DebtOK, it’s summer and you’re probably thinking Christmas is a long way away but don’t be caught out, when it comes to money Christmas is only around the corner! Plan ahead and don’t fall foul of pay day lenders or door step lenders (loan sharks) to pay for your Christmas.

Join your local credit union and start saving today. They can offer you an affordable loan, with reasonable repayments to help you with the cost of Christmas. Contact your local credit union to find out what information you need to become a member and when you can visit them. You can look up your local credit union online:

www.merseymoney.org.uk or contact LMH Connect

SOME FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CREDIT UNIONS:

• You must be a member and over 18 to qualify for a loan

• You must agree whilst making your repayments to save as well

• Each credit union will have a cut off date for Christmas loans

• There is no penalty fee for repaying your loan early

• You can use a credit union account just like a bank account

• Universal Credit can be paid into a credit union account

• You can get a loan at a credit union at any time of the year

Credit Union vs Door Step Lender

Case 1 Mr X needs to replace his cooker and it will cost £250

Case 2 Mrs X needs to carry out repairs on her car that will cost her £500

In both cases if they used a door step lender the money paid back in interest would almost cover the original cost of the goods/services they needed the money for.

The Credit Union wins every time!

Interest rates vary slightly between credit unions. This is just an example.

Please remember that paying your rent is a priority, even during the holiday season. By planning ahead you can make sure that you don’t get into any difficulties.

£250 over 12 months Door Step Lender (Loan Shark) Credit UnionWeekly Payment £8.75 £5.49What she pays in interest £205 £35.63

£500 over 12 months Door Step Lender (Loan Shark) Credit UnionWeekly Payment £17.50 £10.99What she pays in interest £410 £71.27

17

MoneyMatters

Help Us to Help You We want to offer advice and support to our tenants who are going to be affected by Welfare Reform changes, especially Universal Credit, which will see many people having to cope with a new way of receiving and managing their benefit, including paying their rent.

To do this we need more detailed information about our tenants, so we can support those who may find it more difficult to cope with the changes.

Over the coming months when you make contact with us you will be asked to give personal information such as: Do you have a bank account? Do you have any health issues, such as drugs or alcohol dependancy? This will help us to identify who may need additional support.

All information that we hold is confidential and will be held in compliance with the The Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA) and our Data Protection Policy; go to www.liverpoolmutualhomes.org for more details.

A Family in Crisis

Don’t put off till tomorrow what you should be dealing with today

Rent arrears don’t go away unless you deal with them. Ignoring the situation is the worst thing you can do. Our rent officers want to help and they know that finding a solution early on is the best way to go. One family recently found out how important it is to contact their LMH rent officer and how we can help with much more than rent arrears. Their rent officer drew up and agreed a repayment plan tohelp them to pay off their rent arrears. The fuel debt advisor helped the family to:

• Get £2700 of arrears written off by another provider• Apply for a grant for a new cooker

The family said that their only regret was that they never made contact with our staff right away. They were like their “fairy godmothers” and the family felt that they may have ended up on the street without them. It would have taken away months of stress and worry. If you are worried about arrears and debt call us straight away. We want to help.

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MoneyMatters

Double Recognition for LMH’s Equality and Diversity ApproachLMH have received recognition from two national bodies in the space of two days for our approach to equality and diversity. LMH was awarded the Housing Diversity Network’s DNA accreditation and re-awarded with the Navajo stamp of recognition.

In March and April we were assessed by the Housing Diversity Network which scrutinised our approach and how it impacts on tenants, communities and our business. Interviews took place with the Chief Executive, Board members, and senior and frontline staff. Focus groups were held with active tenants, Diversity Champions and Board members.

LMH Chief Executive, Steve Coffey, said: “We decided to apply for this accreditation so we could show our staff, customers, partners and other stakeholders that we have equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of what we do and that it is firmly embedded throughout all our services and functions. We are very proud to have achieved this accreditation”

Navajo Charter MarkLMH was also re-accredited with the Navajo Charter Mark after first receiving the award in April 2012. It shows LMH is a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, inter-sex friendly organisation, in terms of how it writes its policies and procedures, recruits, engages with staff and customers and monitors its services. Lyn Bowker, Equality and Diversity Manager at LMH, said: “I am absolutely delighted that the Navajo Merseyside Consultative Partnership Board has re-accredited us with this award.

“We see it as a stamp of approval for our hard work and confirmation that we are an LGBTI-friendly organisation and can demonstrate good practice, commitment and knowledge of the specific needs, issues and barriers faced by LGBTI people.”

Teri Wilson, member of Rainbow, LMH’S LGBTI customer group added, “As a Board Member and tenant I am extremely proud of the work LMH’s equality and diversity team have put in over the last few years. I have seen and experienced at first hand the great strides we are making in the field of LGBTI equality. It is encouraging to see both staff and tenants becoming better educated and accepting of the diverse community we live in”.

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Equality &Diversity

Anti-social Behaviour

Community Safety & ASBWorking together for safe, clean and sustainable communities

Noise from Neighbours - Living in harmonyIt’s that time of year again when lighter nights and warm weather enables people to enjoy more time with their windows open and in their gardens.

Around this time of year one of the most common complaints is noise. We ask people to show respect and tolerance to neighbours. At some point in our lives, almost all of us have been affected by noise; with 1 in 10 of us being kept awake at night. Unwanted noise may include loud music or repeated late night parties.

What can you do about noise problems? The quickest and easiest way to resolve a noise nuisance problem is to have an honest and friendly chat with your neighbour. Talking to neighbours first about the situation can often stop a potential long-term noise problem. The vast majority of people are considerate but some don’t realise how much of an impact noise can have on neighbours.

LMH is here to advise and helpIf you feel that the noise from neighbours is excessive, it is important that you officially record the incidents by calling Liverpool City Council’s Noise Nuisance Team (0151 233 3001). Also, do not hesitate to contact LMH for advice and support if you are suffering from noisy neighbours. We work with the Council and Police to tackle people who create excessive noise and disrupt the lives of other residents. This can include fines, injunctions and taking possession of sound systems or other noise making equipment. For more information download LMH’s leaflet on nuisance noise from our website or pick a copy from your local housing office.

Antisocial Behaviour (ASB) Leaflet Updated

We have recently updated our ASB leaflet which describes:

• What we class as ASB and what we don’t• How we manage ASB cases• Our service standards and response times• How customers can resolve issues with neighbours amicably • That customer input in reporting and providing witness statements

is vital in obtaining successful outcomes in cases requiring legal action

Pick up a copy of the leaflet at your local housing office or download it from our website.

20

ASBUpdate

Taking Action Against ASBLMH continues to work closely with customers and partner agencies such as the Council, Police and Fire Service in tackling ASB across our neighbourhoods. This year has seen a number of convictions for ASB:

• In March, a tenant from L7 received a 3 year Suspended Possession Order for drug related convictions• In April a tenant from L8 received a 2 year Suspended Possession Order for drug related activity• In May, bailiffs carried out an eviction order due to ASB, rent arrears and a conviction for class A drugs

LMH continues to support and encourage residents to report ASB which is important to maintain safe, strong and resilient communities where people chose to live and work.

Help us Tackle ASBWe have highly experienced and dedicated staff who work closely with partner agencies on community safety issues and to tackle ASB. Where we take cases to court, our action is greatly strengthened at court when we have witness reports and evidence.

To report ASB call 0800 678 1894

Bogus Callers – If in Doubt Keep Them Out!Bogus callers pretending to be from legitimate companies are rare but they are a danger:

• Are you expecting their call? If in doubt keep them out!• Don’t be persuaded by ‘clever sales patter’• Always ask to see and check their identification• Call the number on their id card and don’t let them in if you have doubts about them being genuine• If it is a salesman, builder or gardener check to see that they have a van with a proper address

marked on it and make a record of these details

If you suspect you have been visited by a bogus caller – let your landlord, Police or local council know. You could help prevent other neighbours falling victim to the bogus caller. The best defence against a doubtful caller is to have a spy hole and a door chain fitted to your door.

If you witness a crime dial 101 (non emergencies) or if you have any other information ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 and quote ‘Neighbourhood Alert’.

UPDATE

21

ASBUpdate

HMS Wins LMH Repairs and Maintenance ContractLMH have awarded our repairs, maintenance and investment contract to our subsidiary Housing Maintenance Solutions (HMS) following a thorough and robust market testing exercise, which fully complied with EU Public Procurement requirements.

HMS will continue to carry out work on LMH’s 15,000 homes for the next four years. The contract also includes investment projects that will see HMS provide environmental works and the refurbishment of empty homes for LMH.

Managing Director at HMS, Paul Worthington, said: “Winning a contract of this magnitude reflects the position and capacity of the company. A four year contract gives us the opportunity to plan and deliver co-ordinated services. We have a strong foundation having provided a consistently high standard of maintenance for LMH over the past year and now we can focus on streamlining our services to meet the demands of tenants even better.”

Chief Executive at LMH, Steve Coffey, said: “This structure gives us the best of both worlds, enabling us to deliver the highest quality services for tenants at very low risk and always achieving a market price.

It means work can be carried out quicker, we can build a closer relationship with one predominant contractor and tenants will become accustomed to knowing what HMS is, does and stands for.

We are delighted this work was won by HMS, it will also allow us to reinvest the profits it makes into our social dividend which is a fund that support initiatives that address deprivation, promote inclusion and support communities...”

Your local Building & Maintenance Company

22

HMSUpdate

Do you need to improve your DIY skills?HMS will be giving free taster sessions for LMH tenants to learn invaluable DIY skills. The sessions will be short, informative, interactive and led by a skilled craftsmen who will show you how to do general DIY around the home.

If you would like to register your interest please email [email protected] with your Name, Address and Phone number. Please quote ‘HMS DIY skills sessions’ in the title. Alternatively call HMS on 0800 678 1894

HMS win Morgan Lambert Gold Award for third consecutive yearHMS has won the Morgan Lambert Gold Award for Gas excellence for an unprecented third consecutive year.

Well done to the entire Gas team for their continued commitment to ensuring Gas safety.

LMH out of hours contact changes! In our Spring newsletter, we identified that there would be changes to the way LMH classify repairs as of 1st May 2015. Prior to then, LMH had operated a three category system of ‘Emergency, Urgent or Routine’ however we now have moved to a two category system of ‘Emergency or by Appointment’. This supports our contractor making the best and efficient use of our labour resource as well as enabling customers to arrange non-urgent repairs to suit their personal circumstances.

LMH has now reviewed its out of hours service provision and in keeping with other organisations within the sector, from 1st August 2015 we will move to managing Emergency Repair Queries only outside of normal working hours. Remember if it’s an emergency and our offices are closed you can contact us on 0800 678 1894.

Customers will be able to contact LMH Connect within the normal working hours of 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday. If you have a routine repair or housing service enquiry outside of normal business hours why not visit our website where many services are available online www.liverpoolmutualhomes.org and register with LMH Connect 24/7

• Report a repair • Review repair history • Make a rent payment• View a rent account • Print a rent statement • Order a new rent card

23

HMSUpdate

Each year we hold two free, fun family events in the North and South of Liverpool, which are open to everyone. These were held on 9th May in Princes Park and 6th June in Stanley Park. Picnic in the Park is LMH’s way of saying thank you and showcasing the work we are doing in our homes and communities. There was something for everyone including, fairground rides for all ages, dance, gymnastic performances, face painting, henna tattoos and much more. Look out for next year’s events in future editions of My LMH.

We invited other organisations along to give advice to people; these included the Children’s Centre, The Heart Foundation, Mediation Services, Fostering Services, Liverpool Veterans, Bulky Bob’s and Social Enterprise Network.

LMH offered advice on employment and training, improving IT skills, applying for a home, rent and welfare, budgeting and debt advice to name but a few. Games and competitions were held throughout the day with fantastic prizes.

Free Family Fun

COMPETITION

WINNER

COMPETITIONWINNER

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Picnic inthe Park

The LMH Focus Awards are a great way of celebrating the achievements of our customers, partners and staff who help us to continue to improve our services and make a positive difference

to the neighbourhoods we work in. Well done and congratulations to all our inspirational winners and shortlisted nominees who make a real difference.

Ken Hughes Memorial AwardMatt Pollard Business Support Assistant

NeighBour of the YearElaine Doolan

Tenant Group of the YearLMH Tenant Scrutiny Panel

Volunteer of the YearAnn Roach West Everton Community Council

Partnership of the Year Kevin Kirby Everton Development Trust

Staff MemBer of the Year Simon Dunn Safer Estates Officer

Team Leader of the Year Chris Carney Assistant Financial Accountant

Special Recognition Award Your Voice

Team of the Year Income Services & Welfare Reform

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FocusAwards

Leaving certain items in shared spaces (such as hallways) can be a fire risk or block people’s escape from the building if a fire breaks out. If you live in a building with shared spaces here is some information on what you can and can’t leave in these areas:

What is NOT allowed in communal areas

No mats to main entrance doors, no runners No bits of carpet or trip hazardsNo curtainsNo mats close to stairwaysNo furniture, tables, chairs, screensNo flammable pots, plants or ornaments in communal areasNo bicycles/mobility scootersNo pictures, shelves, decorations on communal wallsNo petrol cans stored within the block What IS allowed in communal areas

Door mats that are in good condition directly outside front door onlySmall pots/planters holding non-flammable materials placed away from escape routes We will NOT normally allow bicycles, prams, pushchairs and similar items to be left in the internal communal areas of the block, unless there is a purpose built cupboard or area where they can be stored without causing obstruction. For more information go to www.gov.uk/firekills If you have any questions or queries please contact us on 0800 678 1894.

Many people have lost all of their belongings to fire and flood. We know that many residents don’t have any household insurance cover.

Unforeseen incidents can happen to any one of us, which is why LMH encourage all our customers to insure their personnal belongings. LMH in partnership with RSA Insurance Group offers all our customers the opportunity to take out low cost insurance cover, which starts from as little as 83p a week. Cover can be tailored to suit your needs and there are a number of different ways that you can pay.

If you would like to take out this insurance cover or want free impartial advice about insuring your belongings please contact LMH Connect.

Fire Safety in Communal Areas

Could You Lose Everything if Disaster Struck?

26

Assets

To work most LMH Vaillant Ecotec Pro boilers correctly they must have:

• Credit on your gas meter• Electric credit on your meter • The thermostats, programmer and boiler to be turned on

and turned up to a temperature that will switch the boiler on

If your boiler doesn’t work check these things first. The digital display on the boiler can show ‘fault’ codes which give an indication for why the boiler isn’t working. The common ones are:

Every year HMS will carry out a gas safety inspection in your home. An annual gas safety check will keep you, your family and neighbours safe from gas explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.

There are lots of benefits from a gas safety inspection. When our Gas safe registered engineer comes to your home they will:

• Test for gas leaks• Check your boiler is working correctly and not creating carbon monoxide• Check all the other gas appliances and flues in your home for gas safety,

including the chimney if you have a gas fire• Test your smoke alarms/carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly• Bleed and check you radiators and valves are working correctly• Carry out or arrange for any repairs found to be necessary • Give you energy saving advice

Remember you must let us into your home every year for a gas safety inspection, even if you don’t use gas. By refusing access you are putting your neighbours in danger as well as yourself.

If you have made the above checks and haven’t resolved the problem contact LMH Connect.

Troubleshooting: Boilers

A Gas Safety Inspection Could Save Your Life

CODE REASON HOW TO CHECK SOLUTIONF28 F29

Usually because there is no gas or electric credit on your meter

Check your lights work and gas cooker can be lit

Buy credit for your gas / electric

F75 F24 F23 F22

Usually because the water pressure has dropped in the heating system

Look at the small dial in the bottom right hand corner of the boiler. If the needle is at “7 O’clock” or lower

Call LMH to arrange an engineer visit

F32 Fan Fault No customer checks Call LMH and state fault code

27

Assets

You can apply for funding from our Children’s Health Bursary to help your child/children (aged 4 – 18) to access sports activities, which could include swimming, football, gymnastics, boxing and much more!

These are usually small amounts of money to remove barriers that are stopping your child/children from taking part in sport. We only have a limited amount of funding, which we allocate on the merit of each application. You can apply for the Children’s Health Bursary by contacting the Regeneration Team on 0800 678 1894.

ISSUE 15JULY 2015

COMPETITION We have hidden 5 ice creams (like the one shown here) in this newsletter. When you find them, pop the page numbers on a piece of paper (with your full name, address, age and contact details) and put in an envelope addressed to Freepost LMH (no stamp required) before the 14th August 2015.

The winner will be picked at random and will receive a £10 gift voucher.Competition for under 12s only

Children’s Health Bursary

Growing our futureHMS staff from our Grounds maintenance team spent 2 days

at the recent Picnic in the Park events in both Princes Park and Stanley Park, re-potting 220 tomato plants with children to take home and watch them grow. There was also ‘Try a Trade’ which

teaches kids practical DIY skills and a radio control car area.

HMS are always happy to assist with events in the community that encourage health, wellbeing and youth engagement.

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My YoungLMH

Historically, 0800 telephone calls have been free when dialled from a landline, but mobile users have usually been charged. This is why LMH Connect currently has two numbers. 0800 678 1894 is the free to landline number and 0300 123 2300 is charged at local rate for both landline and mobile phones.

From 1 July 2015, as part of the UK Calling changes, all numbers starting 0800 will become free for all customers including mobile phone users. It is our intention to phase out use of the 0300 number as this will no longer be required. Over time you will therefore see changes in our literature and branding but you will still be able to get through using the 0300 number for now.

We do our very best to keep you informed about the welfarereforms that may impact on you and your family through a variety of routes, including this newsletter. Often, however, people find themselves in difficulty and hardship and don’t come to us for advice or help until the situation is bad and debts have mounted up.

The roll out of Universal Credit is still in its infancy and only a small number of our tenants are affected, but manymore will move ‘Over to ‘U’ in the coming year and the Government has signalled that more welfare reforms are on the way. I cannot stress enough that LMH is willing to help you to make sure that you are getting the right benefits, able to access on-line services including benefit application, on the best fuel tariff, given debt and money management advice and sign-posted to training and work opportunities. Remember, our staff are friendly and knowledgeable and want to help you to sustain your tenancy and maximise your income. There is practical financial advice in ‘Money Matters’ on page 11.

Community Investment ProgrammeWe are proud of the growing programme of community initiatives that LMH invests in to improve our homes, neighbourhoods and quality of life for our tenants. Some projects are showcased in this newsletter, for example the ‘Picnics in the Park’ that are so well attended by our tenants and residents and by people who would like to live in our homes.

We welcome ideas from our tenants to improve our programme of activities. If you have an idea or If you see gaps in service provision or something that bothers you that we could perhaps address, then please let us know. If you see opportunities for LMH to work in partnership, then please let us know. Our Community Regeneration and Customer Involvement teams will be happy to meet to discuss your ideas.

Retirement homes not for you? Think again...LMH has invested in all of our sheltered accommodation schemes over the past couple of years. The works to communal areas are coming to an end with Shallcross Court the final scheme to go on site. Many schemes have been completely refurbished with beautiful communal areas including lounges with luxurious soft furnishings; laundries; hair salons; games rooms; gardens; scooter stores, and I.T. suites complete with computers and wifi. Of course many people simply want a good quality home with a beautiful kitchen and bathroom where they can feel safe and close their front door – and all our schemes have these!

Come along to our open day at Handel Court on the 7th August (see pg.9) or you can contact our Independent Living Team via LMH Connect to view any of the appartments. They can advise you about the cost and demand for a scheme and how long you might wait and also give you any other information you might need to make an informed decision about whether sheltered housing is for you.

I’d like to wish you and your family a happy, safe and sunny summer.

Angela Forshaw, Director of Landlord Services

Ringing in the changes Free Activities This SummerThe summer holidays are almost here, so we thought we would share some ideas for activities to keep the whole family entertained:

Make It MondayEvery Monday in the summer holidays you can drop in to the Walker Art Gallery to make, create and take home a wonderful work of art. Walker Art Gallery, William Brown Street, Liverpool. 1-4pm, July 27; August 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31

Rice Lane City FarmVisit the Rice Lane City Farm with its pigs, sheep, goats and ponies. You can pet some of the smaller animals or go on the nature trail. Admission is free (a donation is welcome if you can afford it). There is also a free youth club every Monday evening for 8-13 year olds. Tel: 0151 530 1066.Rawcliffe Rd, Liverpool, Merseyside - Open seven days a week from 10am-3.30pm

Liverpool International Music Festival (LIMF)LIMF takes place from the 27- 31 August with concerts and activities across the city. Make sure you check out the Summer Jam at Sefton Park on the 29th and 30th of August; it’s free with some top acts including: Basement Jaxx, Labrinth, and Katy B and Laura Mvula.

Visit the Aquarium at the Liverpool World Museum The aquarium is based inside of the National Museum of Liverpool and is free for the public to visit any time of the week. You can see tropical fish that come from all around the world and go to free demonstrations of how the fish live and where they come from.

Liverpool ParksThere are many parks in Liverpool that are lovely and worth a visit including Calderstones, Croxteth park, Walton park, Sefton park and many more. Parks often have events on in the summer

Why not visit the newly restored festival gardens it’s the perfect place to pack up a picnic and go and relax for the day and enjoy the new gardens. The gardens are open 7 days a week.

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My YoungLMH

FOCUS AWARDS 2015DIGITAL HUB UPDATE

VIP GRADUATION PICNIC IN THE PARK

COMPETITIONS & MORE

Eco friendly My LMH - Would you like to do your bit for the environment and receive your copy of My LMH by email? If you’d like to ‘go greener’, and receive your copy by email, please send your name and address to [email protected] or call the Communications Team.

ISSUE 15 / JULY 2015

Head Office @ The Observatory, 1 Old Haymarket, Liverpool, L1 6RA.

[email protected] www.liverpoolmutualhomes.org

LMH Connect0800 678 1894

Childline0800 1111

Crime Stoppers0800 555 111

Emergency Gas Leaks0800 111 999 24 hour

Emergency Water Leaks0800 330 033 24 hour

NHS Advice111

The Samaritans08457 909 090 (national)0151 708 8888 (local)

Drugs / Alcohol helpline0800 776 600 / 0800 917 8282

Age Concern0151 330 5678

Careline0151 233 3800

Benefits Service0151 233 3009

Council Tax0151 233 3008

RAISE (Welfare Rights)0151 291 7850

RSPCA 24 hours cruelty line0300 1234 999

Liverpool Direct 0151 233 3000 / 3001

Domestic Violence helpline freephone0808 2000 247 24 hour

Useful Numbers

This newsletter is printed on FSC® Mix paper, using vegetable oil based ink and is 100% recyclable. It is sourced from a printer that is fully FSC® certified and is working towards ISO4001.Please consider the environment and recycle.

INSIDE THIS ISSUEMONEY MATTERS

SPECIAL PULL OUT EDITION