Out and about - GreenSquare Group...4 We received complaints about the condition of the parking areas outside the flats at Colemans Farm. The Estate Warden team worked hard to clear

ISSUE 8 AUTUMN 2014GREENSQUARE RESIDENTS’ MAGAZINE

SEVERn

• Calne • R

oyal Wootton B

assett • Malm

esbury • Swindon • C

ricklade • Purton • G

loucester • surrounding towns and villages

Tackling antisocial behaviour

GreenSquare Academy free training

Maintenance update

Annual report for residentsFACTS AnD FIGURES FROM 2013-2014 InSIDE

ESTATE WARDEnS

Out and aboutin your area!

recent cases...

Over the past year and a half...

Putting a stop to...

You might have received a phone call at some point during your tenancy, asking if you would like to take part in our monthly survey of tenants and residents, known as the STAR survey. We speak to about 2,000 randomly-selected residents a year as part of this survey, to give people the chance to feedback on their homes, neighbourhoods and the services that we provide. We take the views of residents very seriously and make changes and

GreenSquare is committed to working with residents and partnership agencies to reduce and resolve antisocial behaviour (ASB)issues in your area.

In June 2014 a large cannabis factory was discovered by police in Malmesbury at a GreenSquare resident’s property. Sue Burnett from the ASB Team attended the incident and took photographs of the scene. Soon afterwards the tenant was served with a notice and subsequently surrendered the property in August 2014.

In May 2014 the ASB team took steps to evict a Chippenham resident from his home for breaching an Antisocial Behaviour Order, which was obtained by the team in 2013 following nuisance at the property, including fights and drug dealing. When the order was breached, the team took swift enforcement action, leading to the termination of his tenancy.

Anna Kelly, Senior Antisocial Behaviour Officer at

GreenSquare, explained: “We are committed to tackling antisocial

behaviour in neighbourhoods where we have homes. We always work very

closely with the local police to ensure that any problems

are dealt with.

“We will continue to take the action required to

preserve and maintain other residents’ right to a peaceful and safe living environment and will not tolerate any behaviour that

impacts on this.”

If you are experiencing ASB, contact us (details back cover). To call and report ASB out-of-hours >>>>>>>>

Look out for the symbol!

STAR survey

GreenSquare severn area2

andrew’s welcome

recent cases...

Over the past year and a half...

Putting a stop to...

Strategic Asset Review

Estate Wardens – out and about where you live

Snapshots

8

What’s happening... in planned maintenance4

Local focus 6-7 GreenSquare Academy 9News in brief 9 Scrutiny update 11Money matters 14-15 Contact us 16

10

12

Welcome to the autumn issue of G2.

If you haven’t sat down and read G2 for a while, I ask you to take a moment to have a look through this latest edition. We have listened to your feedback about what you would like to read about in the magazine and worked hard to include interesting and relevant articles; we have updates on planned maintenance, dealing with antisocial behaviour, and managing money.

Also included this time is our annual report for residents, reporting the headline facts and figures for the year 2013-2014, and including an update from the Communities Board for the area you live in.

I hope you will enjoy seeing entries from our summer drawing and colouring competition, reading more about our new Estate Wardens team, and hearing from residents who’ve completed GreenSquare Academy training.

Remember, we always want to hear your views, so if you have anything you would like to feed back to us please get in touch using the contact details on the back cover.

Andrew Smith, Operations Director

Our staff offer advice, support and – where necessary – arrange court action. They work very closely with the police, the local councils, and a variety of other support agencies in the area, who together are able to provide effective action when it’s needed.

ACROSS THE GROUP:

We have applied for and obtained 19 Injunctions and 3 court undertakings of the Injunctions; 6 were breached resulting in committal proceedings for prison.

2 people were sent to prison following repeated and / or serious breaches of their Injunctions.

9 people lost their homes for causing antisocial behaviour.

1 person terminated their tenancy rather than going to prison for breaching their Injunction.

Freephone 0800 0756699 or text ‘ASB’ to 80800

Last contact survey satisfaction with ASB service Group 65% Severn (W&S*) 69% *Wilts & Swindon

improvements as a result of the feedback we receive. In this issue of the magazine, we wanted to share with you some of the key results from the STAR survey and demonstrate how they link to the work we are doing in communities. Keep an eye out for the STAR logo throughout the magazine: this indicates where you can find a key survey result.

3CONTACT US SEE PAGE 16 3

soak it up!

HERE TO HELP

IN PROGRESS...

remove old tiles

IN PROGRESS...

prep walls for paintingIN PROGRESS...

plaster repair to ceiling

OUT WITH THE OLD & IN WITH THE NEWsoak it up!

Since April 2014, in Wiltshire we have installed:

53+ new kitchens 169+ new bathroomsOur in-house team currently works hard to: carry out bathroom and kitchen improvements; install new fences, paths, doors, and windows; carry out roof repairs and upgrades to loft insulation; plastering repairs to the property both internal and external; and electrical improvements.

Our bathroom refurbishment programme aims to install an over-bath shower into every GreenSquare property in Wiltshire. If you haven’t already, you will be invited to a consultation event to discuss the planned maintenance process and future improvement work. A surveyor will then visit your property, at a time convenient for you, to inspect the condition of your bathroom to see if it requires improving in any other way – it may be partially or fully upgraded depending on its age and condition.

You will be able to choose from a range of tiles, bath panels, toilet seats, paint, and floor tiles. This will be agreed with you at the time of the survey. The length of time we spend completing the work depends on the current condition of the property, but on average you can expect the work to take around five to six days.

See the ‘planned maintenance’ leaflet at greensquaregroup.com or come into the office to get a copy.

We have increased the size of our in-house planned maintenance team so that we can carry out more improvements in residents’ homes.

what’s happening...In PLAnnED MAInTEnAnCE

Just Ask!

There are many different ways for you to report any issues or concerns you may have to GreenSquare – but we understand that sometimes it is easier for you to talk to someone face-to-face rather than on the phone or on social media.

For many residents, the only contact you have in person with GreenSquare is when our tradespeople are carrying out repairs or improvements in your home.


IN PROGRESS...

plaster repair to ceiling

shower, bath & tiles replaced

Satisfaction with repairs and maintenance Group 77% • Severn (Wilts & Swindon) 75% • Severn (Glos) 68%

What is condensation?

toilet and sink replaced

Please do feel free to make suggestions or raise any concerns you may have with members of the team when you see them – this doesn’t just have to be about maintenance matters and could relate, for example, to tenancy queries you may have. Although they may not be able to resolve the issue there and then for you, they will advise and involve relevant GreenSquare colleagues who will be able to help.

All GreenSquare staff are ready and willing to help – so please do raise any issues or concerns you may have.

TOP TIPSCover pans with a lid whilst cooking or boiling water.

Dry washing outdoors on a line or put it in the bathroom with the door closed and the window open. Do not dry washing on radiators.

Make sure that tumble dryers are vented to the outside.

Close kitchen and bathroom doors when the rooms are in use, to prevent moisture reaching other rooms.

Keep kitchens and bathrooms well-ventilated by opening the windows wide.

Try to position wardrobes and furniture against internal walls.

Do not block permanent ventilators.

Every home gets condensation at some time. There is always some moisture in the air, even if you cannot see it. When the air in your home gets colder and it cannot hold all the moisture, tiny drops of water appear. This is condensation.

If you reduce condensation in your home then you can reduce your chances of dampness and the problems that result from this, such as mould growth.

To avoid condensation you need to produce less moisture, ventilate to remove moisture and ensure that your home is properly insulated and draught proofed.

If you have any mould growth, treat it immediately. To kill and remove mould, wipe down or spray walls and window frames with a fungicidal wash that carries a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) ‘approval number’, and ensure that you follow the instructions for its safe use.

Remember, the only lasting cure for severe mould is to get rid of the dampness caused by condensation.

For more information see our ’dealing with condensation’ leaflet online or visit our office to pick up a copy.


4 Residents in Ogilvie Square and Page Close told us that they wanted assistance with a clear up. We provided a clean up day with the assistance from the Estate Wardens, Grounds Maintenance Team and Estate Management.

4 Also in Ogilvie Square and Page Close, residents expressed an interest in growing their own vegetables. We worked with Calne Environmental Network to launch a project group, which has now planted vegetables in Ogilvie Square, which are managed by residents, and set up planters full of shrubs in Page Close.

4 We received reports of people sleeping rough in Harris Court and in garages on Newcroft Road. We

worked with agencies to move the people on and prevent them from returning.

4 Residents in Woodroffe Square told us about an untaxed vehicle left in the area. We contacted Wiltshire Council and had the vehicle removed.

4 We received complaints about the condition of the parking areas outside the flats at Colemans Farm. The Estate Warden team worked hard to clear the weeds and litter from the area, which has made a big improvement.

4 Residents identified a family in the area who were struggling to maintain their garden. We worked with the family and helped them get extra support.

In this section we feed back on action we have taken in your area as a direct result of comments and requests from you.

Caught on camera

Big Lunch at KingswayIn Kingsway, Gloucester, hundreds of residents gathered for the fourth annual Big Lunch, enjoying an afternoon of family fun, food, face painting and music.

Calne family sports day Around 40 families came along to the family sports day in Calne, where mums, dads and children made their own ‘pedal powered’ smoothies (pictured); learnt new football skills; played on the bouncy castle; made bracelets; and much more!

ExCITInG nEW WAY TO HAVE YOUR SAY

Greenview is a brand new web page for residentsOnce you’ve registered, you’ll find a link to the monthly Greenview survey, plus you’ll find quick polls and forum chats for you to take part in. And you can see the results of previous Greenview surveys. What’s more, you’ll get points for everything you do – and points means… prizes! AND you’ll be eligible to win up to £500 at the end of the year in a prize draw.

Go to greenview.greensquaregroup.com and register now.

Don’t miss out, register today and join the conversation!

MEET ALEx

Alex Lodge has recently joined the GreenSquare team in Severn (Gloucester) as a Community Involvement Officer. His role will involve working with residents to ensure residents are happy where they live and to listen to resident feedback about GreenSquare.

“I have worked in the housing sector for over six years and I’m very excited about my new role at GreenSquare. I look forward to meeting you at events in your area and hearing what you have to say.”


Sacha, age 12WInnER

The results are in for the drawing and colouring competition! You chose the winner by ‘liking’ entries on Facebook. Sacha has won £25 worth of Argos vouchers. Congratulations!

Did you know? According to recent research by Wiltshire Money, householders without internet access pay an average of £440 more a year for goods and services…Do you have IT issues? Or would you like to find out how to make the most of your devices? Our IT Learning Co-ordinator, Hannah White-Overton, is here to help! For more information, please call Hannah on 07852 262572.

SUMMERDRAWInG & COLOURInG COMPETITIOn

other entries...Megan, age 6Chloe, age 8

Lucas, age 10


who’swho Pictured above standing L-R: Adrian McHugh, Chris Kelly, Mike Cox,

Nicholas Bartlett, Rod Jeffrey, Dave King and Nigel Lambert (seated). They are managed by Mike Cox, who is supported by Dave King.

factfile“Our roles go much further than simply ensuring that estates are kept clean and tidy,” says Estate Warden Adrian McHugh.

“Jobs that I routinely carry out as part of my role include litter picking; removing bulk waste items; reporting any damage, vandalism and fly tipping; carrying out fire assessments; and checking vehicles for tax.

“As well as all that, myself and the other Estate Wardens help to provide a regular GreenSquare presence in the neighbourhoods where we have homes.

“Over the course of a fortnight, I visit fifty different areas to ensure that everything is working as it should and each day is slightly different.

“We are, I hope, a friendly face for residents to recognise and approach with any questions, tenancy-related or otherwise, and we always follow up with any maintenance issues that are brought to our attention.”

Estate wardens have collected a variety of items during the year, including:

47 fridges / freezers22 washing machines 67 televisions450 bags litter (picked)28 vacuum cleaners 38 bicycles 1 snake 3 exercise bikes, a rowing machine, dumb bells and a running machine.

Estate Warden Manager Mike Cox explained: “The team is covering Estate Warden duties across Wiltshire and Gloucestershire at all of our properties with communal areas, which need cleaning and maintaining.

“The Wardens have replaced outside contractors, to help us to standardise our Estate Warden service and provide better value for money to residents across the Group.”

You might have already noticed some of the members of GreenSquare’s new Estate Wardens team hard at work in your neighbourhood.

ESTATE WARDEnS

Out and about where you live!

We are a friendly face for residents to recognise and approach with any questions.

plus a full sized bath and shower tray, sinks, taps and sauna unit!


news in brief

We’ve rebranded We have recently changed the names of our three commercial subsidiary companies, so that they are all part of one corporate identity and easily recognisable as part of the GreenSquare group. Our construction firm, Tidestone, is now GreenSquare Construction Ltd; our commercial housing company, Oakus, is GreenSquare Homes Ltd; and our gas, heating and plumbing contractor, GW Sparrow, is now known as GreenSquare Energy Ltd – you may have already seen some new GreenSquare Energy vans in your neighbourhood.

GDASS supports 3,000 victims in one yearGloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service (GDASS) – run by GreenSquare and Splitz – supported 3,002 victims of domestic abuse in one year and is seeing an increase in referrals. Sally Morrissey, Support Services Manager, said: “A number of high profile cases in the county have meant that the issue of domestic abuse has never been so prevalent in the minds of the public.” 0845 602 9035 [email protected]

We are a friendly face for residents to recognise and approach with any questions.

“I really enjoyed the course and learned how important it is to vote and the difference that one vote can make to the outcome”resident

training

Residents came together and drafted a survey to find out what motivates people to vote. The data collected was collated by the group and they wrote up a report of their findings, which was sent out to Wiltshire councillors. One participant said: “I have done a complete turnaround. Before the course I thought ‘why bother voting?’ but now I think it really does matter – my one vote may make all the difference.”

We are hoping to run courses on:

> Preparing for work / Interview skills> Managing your personal financesWe have yet to confirm dates for the courses listed above, but if you are interested in taking part, please contact Julie Bielby on 01249 465465 or email [email protected]

WORK-RELATED COURSES We have a small pot of money available to sponsor residents to complete work-related courses at Wiltshire College. If you are missing a qualification that you know will help you get back into work, please contact us to discuss.

Recent Introduction to Childcare course

The GreenSquare Academy offers free training opportunities to residents and recently ran a four-week Community Research course (pictured) to explore the reasons why some people vote and others choose not to.


Top right: Gloucester Park was transformed into a giant beach in the summer, for a family fun day. Supported by GreenSquare and other local organisations, there was something for everyone to enjoy including a beach where people played football, volleyball and badminton.

Right: Daniel, a volunteer gardener for GreenSquare, looks after all the communal shrub beds at Oak Close and recently his work was entered into the South West in Bloom competition. They said his entry was both unique and commendable and praised him for his effort and commitment.

Below: John Walker, a 97 year old resident who lives in Glovers Court in Malmesbury, gave a presentation to his fellow residents about World War One. Here he is pictured with a selection of medals that were awarded to him in WW2, and others that were awarded to members of his family.

Sprucing up DOGRIDGE

John’s story MALMESBURY

A day at the seaside GLOUCESTER PARK

Above: Residents at Dogridge in Purton picked up their paint brushes at a community clean-up day recently and helped to spruce up the area by painting fences and doors on the estate.

snap shots

A round-up of activities residents and GreenSquare staff in the Severn

area have been involved in recently

Gardener at OAK CLOSE


Back in the summer we consulted all residents to find out your views about bringing together – or ‘amalgamating’ – Oxbode, Oxford Citizens and Westlea housing associations and GreenSquare Group into a single organisation.

We sent leaflets to every household, conducted surveys with residents through Viewpoint and our Greenview Panel, and also sought comments from those of you attending our community involvement activities during the summer period.

Thank you to everyone who gave feedback on the proposal; there were 517 responses in total.

• 81% were positive: most who responded were already used to the GreenSquare name and branding in place; liked the idea of being in one Group; and agreed that it was a good idea to build more homes and make us stronger and future proof.

• 15% were negative: some had concerns about the Group becoming too big and reducing local significance.

• 4% were neutral: some didn’t see the proposals as affecting them or want to see the Group get any larger than it is.

During November, the GreenSquare Board is considering the proposals to amalgamate, taking into account the views of residents and other stakeholders, before submitting the business case to the Homes and Communities Agency (our regulator).

Combining

into one

If this change goes ahead, the only change for residents will be that the name of your landlord will change from Oxbode or Oxford Citizens or Westlea (as appropriate) to GreenSquare Group. This will not affect your tenancy in any other way.

Please see our website page at greensquaregroup.com/one for more information. We will also provide an update in the next edition of G2..

By now many readers of G2 will be familiar with the role of the Resident Scrutiny Panel – often referred to as the RSP. It’s our job to keep a watchful eye on GreenSquare’s overall performance and services and, when necessary, to carry out in-depth inquiries. By asking questions and chasing explanations, we make sure that the organisation is always doing its best for customers.

Here’s a summary of some of the things we have done:

• We looked at the way residents’ complaints are handled, which led to a full-time service improvement officer being appointed, and we insisted that all complaints are recorded, not just the serious ones.

• We asked for more workers to be put onto the new bathroom programme to speed it up and requested that residents should know when a surveyor has visited their homes and what the surveyor recommended should be done. The RSP will continue to press for real options for residents regarding improvements and replacements in their homes.

• We continue to monitor what is happening with the way housing benefit is paid and the likely effect upon our residents when Universal Credit (all benefit payments rolled into one) is eventually applied nationally.

• At the present time, we are looking at the quality of service offered by the contact centre and how requests for repairs are recorded and acted on.

For full details about the many inquiries we’ve published since we started, visit GreenSquare’s website and search ‘Resident Scrutiny Panel’. If you would like to suggest a subject for us to look at, or if you would like to join the Panel, contact Fiona Hobbs (details back cover) or email [email protected]

Keeping an eye on GreenSquare

with Keith Fellows

Chair, GreenSquare’s Resident Scrutiny Panel


Residents in Sharpness were invited to find out more about potential development plans (left) in the area, at a public consultation event led by GreenSquare and Hunter Page Planning Ltd.The aspiration is to create a new garden village of 1500 homes that will be delivered in the Local Plan period up to 2031. The development has the potential for a new village centre with a food store, small shops and offices. In addition, the provision of other services including a doctors surgery and a new school, will assist in complementing local services. New bus routes will also be a key feature.

We have made a lot of progress on the proposals for the regeneration of the neighbourhood and recently held a successful drop in session (above) for residents to share their views. Now we have to talk to the planners, highways team and utility companies to make sure that the plans are acceptable in terms of the road layouts, drainage, diversions and how they fit with the existing homes. Once we are satisfied, we’ll be able to decide how the work will be phased and where everyone’s new homes will be.

A PORTRAIT OF CULVERHAY We will be working with artist Scott Farlow to create a special Community Art project called ‘A Portrait of Culverhay’, which will support the redevelopment programme, to recognise, celebrate and reveal the positive community spirit of Culverhay, as it undergoes transformation and looks towards a new and exciting future.

Scott will work closely with local residents to learn more about what makes Culverhay special, collecting stories, memories and personal anecdotes, photographs and memorabilia for the project. If you would like to learn more about this project, contact Sue Chapman (details back cover).

Strategic asset reviewIn December 2013 we began a review of our property and land assets to make sure that we are making the most of the opportunities to invest in our existing homes and neighbourhoods, improving and replacing homes where necessary. A team of managers from across GreenSquare has just finished a far reaching review of all our properties and land holdings and we are now gathering together all the information to form a 30 year plan, which will be considered by the GreenSquare Board later this year.

Once approved, this plan will form the basis of a revised asset management strategy for the future and will help us to develop long-term regeneration proposals.

Group 76% Severn (W&S)* 76% Severn (Glos) 81% *Wiltshire and Swindon

WHAT’S nExT AT CULVERHAY?

PUBLIC COnSULTATIOn In SHARPnESS


Whatever! (for people aged between 16-24 years old) and Whatnow! (for people aged 25 or over) are exciting schemes available to GreenSquare residents. They help to improve people’s employability, practical skills and confidence in the workplace.

GreenSquare resident Ryan Chubb (pictured) recently took part in the Whatever! project. Nineteen-year-old Ryan spent 13 weeks working as a gardener at Wiltshire College’s Lackham Campus, where he also completed his PA1 and PA6 qualifications – two essential qualifications that he will need if he wants to pursue gardening as a career.

Ryan explained: “My work placement at Lackham Campus was great. Every morning when I woke up I thought “Yes! I am going to work!”.

&“Every morning when I woke up I thought... Yes! I am going to work!”

“The placement was hard work but once I’d finished and looked back at everything I’d achieved – including two qualifications – it made me feel so good about myself to know that I’d done it!

“I owe a big thank you to Sue and to the Whatever! project team. I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Ryan is now being considered for an apprenticeship at Lackham College, who were impressed with his hard work.

The Whatever! and WhatNow! projects are open to all GreenSquare residents who are not currently in full time employment or education. If you’re interested in finding out more, please email [email protected] or contact us (details back cover).

GreenSquare Community Fund Do you know of a worthy cause, project or group in your area that could benefit from some additional funding? Why not nominate them for a Community Fund grant?What is the Community Fund? It is a pot of money to support activities or projects in the community that benefit GreenSquare residents. Groups can apply for grants of up to £1000.

WHAT KIND OF ACTIVITIES DOES THE FUND SUPPORT?

• Environmental projects and improvements • Social events for the community • Equipment • Training • Local events

DEADLInE FOR FUnD APPLICATIOnS Monday 17 November 2014

(to be approved by the Communities Boards in January)

VOLUnTEERS nEEDEDWe are looking for residents in Avon and Severn to join our new Community Fund Group to help us to allocate the grants.

AS A VOLUNTEER YOU WILL:

• read applications from local organisations and community groups;

• take part in up to four meetings a year;

• work as part of a team;• recommend which applications

will receive a grant from the Community Fund.

If you would like to get involved, or suggest something you think deserves funding, please contact Julie Bielby (details back cover) or email [email protected]


The Bedroom Tax18 MONTHS ONSince the introduction of the Bedroom Tax in April 2013, if you live in a house that is larger that the government thinks you need, you might have had your Housing Benefit reduced.

Across GreenSquare we have seen a sizeable reduction in the number of households affected by the bedroom tax, partly because some children have now reached the age where they qualify for another room, and also because some residents have reached pension age. We have also had a number of residents who have found paid work so are no longer entitled to Housing Benefit.

However, the Bedroom Tax continues to apply to many residents, and may still start to affect you, for example if someone moves out of your home. If you are struggling to make the top up payment to your rent, please get in touch with us (details back cover).

There are still ways we can help, and you can help yourselves, to make sure you can stay in your home.

We can refer you to our partners providing benefits and debt advice, who can help you apply for a Discretionary Housing Benefit and assist you with other benefits and budgeting. We may also be able to show you how to reduce other costs such as fuel bills. If you do want to consider swapping your property for somewhere that is more suitable to your needs, we can help you register for HomeSwapper.

make the most of your money

From your weekly food shop to your next big electrical purchase, here are a few smart, simple ways to get the most from your money.

SEE WHAT YOU’RE SPEnDInG To start saving, it’s a good idea to look at where you’re spending the most. Doing a budget and keeping a spending diary is an excellent way to get started.

SHOP AROUnD It could be cheaper to go to a different store if you find you’re spending a lot on your groceries. You can save money on your food shopping with simple ideas like checking what you already have, making a list and meal planning.

The Wiltshire Citizens Advice GreenSquare Tenants Support Team are here to help with debt, budgeting, maximising income and welfare benefit claims.Our service is completely confidential. If, in order to help you, we need to talk to GreenSquare or other organisations, we will always ask your permission before doing so.

If you live in a GreenSquare property and would like to talk to someone, please give us a call. You can leave a message on 01249 445115 (choose extension 3) and one of the team will be in touch to find out more about your situation.

money matters


GreenSquare residents could get help with home adaptations if they are needed because of a disability.

Help is available from a number of sources:

Disabled Facility Grants (DFGs)

from local authorities – these grants are means tested and generally are for any major adaptations needed to properties such as level access showers and stair lifts.

GreenSquare has its own

funds that help pay for adaptations. Adaptations of a smaller nature such as grab rails and handrails are funded on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Larger items will need to be supported by a referral from an occupational therapist or a doctor.

GreenSquare often has

properties to re-let, which have already been adapted. Whilst the adaptations may not exactly match what is needed for you, it may only take minor alterations to make the property suit your needs.

To find out if we can help you – or if you have a general enquiry about aids and adaptations – please contact us (details back cover).

3

2

1

Help with adaptationsA REMInDER

WATCH OUT FOR ‘SPECIAL OFFERS’ Special offers can be a great way to save money, but they can sometimes catch you out. Make sure you work out whether a deal is really as good as it looks and if a ‘2-for-1’ or ‘3 for £1’ offer will actually save you money.

ALWAYS COMPARE PRICES If you’re making a big purchase, it’s important to always compare prices. Check the prices in a few different shops on the high street and online to see where you can get the best possible deal.

CHECK THE REVIEWS Take a few minutes to read customer and expert reviews on the products you’re interested in. You can use price comparison sites to compare the cost of anything from fridges and washing machines, to digital cameras and TVs.

DecemberREMEMBER

Don’t forgetPAY YOUR RENT THIS DECEMBER!From April 2014, residents in GreenSquare properties who previously paid rent during 48 weeks of the year now need to make rent payments during all 52 weeks of the year. If this applies to you, you will have received several letters from us – and will have noticed that your weekly rent payment amount has reduced. (The total amount you pay during the year stays the same.)

However, this means that there will be no ‘rent free’ weeks in December. If you pay by Direct Debit or standing order, or you are in receipt of Housing Benefit which covers all of your rent, then this won’t make a difference to you.

However, if you make a weekly rent payment, including a weekly top up, you will need to remember to continue to make payments through the Christmas period. You can do this using your normal payment

method. If you are interested in changing to paying by Direct Debit, so you don’t need to worry about this in December, please contact us (details on back cover).

If you think you will have difficulties keeping up with payments over this period please get in touch as soon as you can. There might be something we can do to help – and the earlier you contact us the more time we have to look at what the options are for you.


If you would like to have any part of this explained or translated, or in a different format such as in larger print, or on audio tape, please contact us on 01249 465465 to discuss your needs.

Jeśli wymagają Państwo wyjaśnienia jakiegoś fragmentu albo jego tłumaczenia, albo w innym formacie, takim jak duży druk, albo na kasecie audio, proszę się z nami skontaktować pod numerem telefonu 01249 465465, aby przedyskutować Państwa potrzeby.

Herhangi bir kısmının izah edilmesini veya tercüme edilmesini, ya da iri harfler veya ses bantı gibi başka bir fotmatta verilmesini isterseniz, lütfen ihtiyaçlarınızı konuşmak için bu numaraya telefon edin: 01249 465465.

Swindon or Wiltshire Phone 01249 465465 • Email [email protected] Methuen Park, Chippenham SN14 0GU

Gloucestershire Phone 01452 505359 • Email [email protected] 9 Pullman Court, Great Western Road, Gloucester GL1 3ND

greensquaregroup.com

Eerie eyeball popsHALLOWEEn SPECIALSpooky chocolate cake balls you can make with the kids for Halloween.

Ingredients• 100g / 4oz Madeira cake• 100g Oreo cookies• 100g bar milk chocolate,

melted• 200g bar white chocolate,

melted• few Smarties and icing

pens, to decorate

You will also need• 10 wooden skewers• ½ small pumpkin

or butternut squash, deseeded (stand pops in)

Method1 Break the Madeira cake and cookies into the bowl of a food processor, pour in the melted milk chocolate and whizz to combine.

2 Tip the mixture into a bowl, then use your hands to roll into about 10 walnut-sized balls. Chill for 2 hrs until really firm.

3 Push a skewer into each ball, then carefully spoon the white chocolate over the cake balls to completely cover. Stand the cake pops in the pumpkin, then press a Smartie onto the surface while wet. Chill again until the chocolate has set. Before serving, using the icing pens, add a pupil to each Smartie and wiggly red veins to the eyeballs.Recipe from BBC Good Food – visit bbcgoodfood.com for more ideas.

RECIPE CORnER

DO YOU HAVE THE

Preserved Right to Buy?To qualify for the Preserved Right to Buy scheme, you must now be an assured tenant with GreenSquare, who transferred their tenancy from north Wiltshire District Council in December 1995.

The scheme gives tenants a discount on the market value of their home. The longer you have been a tenant, the greater the discount you may be entitled to, up to the maximum limit of 70% or £77,000 (whichever is lower). This is the case for both houses and flats.

Do you have the Preserved Right to Buy? For more information, see www.direct.gov.uk and search for ‘Right to Buy’. If you think that you qualify and would like to discuss this option further, please contact Maggie Thompson, Property Sales and Right to Buy Officer (details below).

Documents

Out and about - GreenSquare Group...4 We received complaints about the condition of the parking areas outside the flats at Colemans Farm. The Estate Warden team worked hard to clear