Contour iNside Magazine Summer 2012:Layout 1 - Contour Homes

Summer 2012See page 4…In this issue…1121Awards 20122830

Welcome…Welcome to theSummer edition. Inthis edition of iNsideyou will find all youneed to know aboutwhat is happeningacross ContourHomes and themany activitiestaking place.This October willbe your chance toshine at the 2012 ImPaCt Awards.Last year’s ceremony was afantastic glittering gala, thatcelebrated the positive differencesour tenants and residents havemade to their communities. If youwould like to nominate a neighbour,please complete the enclosed form –further details are also available on page 28.The Customer Service Directorate is focusedon improving our service to you, and we arecurrently making improvements to ourtelephone system. On average we receive inthe region of 2400 calls a week from peoplelooking to report a repair, through to rentaccount enquires and a huge number ofcalls from people wanting somewhere tolive, and the new changes to the way weanswer the phone will improve contact withus – full details are available on page 10.The Resident Inspectors give their timefeely to review our services and makerecommendations so that we can do thingsbetter. Their first report focused on SchemeInspections and provided us withrecommendations on what works well andwhere we can improve. In terms of quality,the report and the information provided bythe Resident Inspectors beats someexpensive consultants reports I have read.A huge thanks to the Resident Inspectorswho are determined to help us continuouslyimprove. The Inspectors report is nowavailable on our website, please visit –www.contourhomes.co.uk. If you too wouldlike to ‘be involved’ in making a difference,page 29 has some great information aboutcourses provided for tenants and residents.So far the weather this year has been verychangeable. I hope we all get some sunshineand that you have an enjoyable summer.Judith WinterbourneGroup Customer Services DirectorIn this issueFrom community clean-ups, to celebratoryevents and festivals - their has been lots goingon across the regions! The Respect Me,Respect You multicultural event took place againthis year, the bar was set high due to last years’success, but did not fail to deliver with anothersuccessful attendance – please see page 4.Don’t forget that the Autumn edition of thisnewsletter will be replaced with the Annual Report,this will be packed with lots of interesting facts andfigures, written by residents for you! However –please continue to send through your articles andphotos for our bumper edition at Christmas!Alison BirchThe EditorEmail: alison.birch@symphonyhousing.org.uk2

416Contour News Resident Pages456781011121415Respect Me, Respect YouMeet the Neighbourhood TeamsNo Smoking Please!Contour Clamp Down on Drug DealersContinuous Improvement and PerformanceImprovements to the Telephone SystemBuilding for an Energy Efficient FutureFocus On… Revenue ServicesModular Pod is Home from HomeTo Buy or Not to Buy?Regional Pages262728293031It’s All About You…Resident NoticeboardimPaCt Awards 2012Insight and EngagementLifestyle PagesSummer SmoothiesFun and Puzzles221618202224LancashireSouth Greater Manchester,Cheshire and MerseysideNorth Greater ManchesterEast Greater ManchesterIndependent Living233

Community EventsRespect Me, Respect YouOn 21st and 22nd April, Contour Homes participated in ahuge community festival at Queens Park in Bolton, whichwas organised to celebrate diversity in the area of Halliwell.The event was organised by a planning group, which includedrepresentatives of Contour Homes, local agencies and communitygroups, and took nine months to plan, but everyone involvedagreed that the months of planning were certainly worth it!Over 3000 people attended over the weekend, unperturbedby the heavy showers, and were treated to a variety ofperformances, from the Police Band, to cultural dancing, poetry,and a youth group dance show to mention but just a few.All local groups and agencies, including Contour Homes, had stallsat the event providing advice and freebies, whilst the funfairand the ‘Halliwell’s got Talent’ competition, localproduce markets and arts and craftexhibitions, entertainedaudiences outside.The highlight of the weekend was undoubtedly the lunchsession, where local community groups prepared food fromtheir cultural heritage.The weekend was a huge success, with people from differentbackgrounds coming together to celebrate diversity. Everyoneinvolved cannot wait for next year’s event, the first planningmeeting is in a few weeks time!For more information please contact Neil Kenyon on0345 602 1120.4Resident Engagement Officer, Claire Rimmer, Community SafetyOfficer, Neil Kenyon and Neighbourhood Officer Tony Nylan

The Neighbourhood TeamsMeet the TeamThe Tenancy/Neighbourhood ManagementService has been established to ensurewe deliver the best possible service toour customers.There is an emphasis on neighbourhoodstaff being more visible out on the estatesand at schemes, and we continue to workwith our residents to further develop theservices we provide.Within the structure, roles have been createdand tailored towards providing excellence:Neighbourhood Officers (NO’s) carry outregular tenancy visits, tackle low levelantisocial behaviour and nuisance issues,deals with tenancy enquiries (includingtransfers and assignment requests)and address general breaches ofneighbourhood and tenancy issues,including graffiti and fly-tipping. Theyalso liaise with residents groups, localpartners and agencies to ensure ajoined up approach towards providing anexcellent service.Neighbourhood Support Officers (NSO’s)undertake scheme inspections, involvetenants, contractors and housing staff inchecking problems are being dealt withand standards are being consistentlymaintained and improved. The NSO’scarry out Tenancy Audits on an annualbasis, as well as supporting theNeighbourhood Officers in providing atop quality service.Customer Support Officers (CSO’s) assistcustomers and potential customers inaccessing support to help sustaintenancies, as well as seeking to secureany floating support required. Theyalso help with completion of benefitforms, and provide signpostinginformation to accessother local services.North GreaterManchesterLancashireEast GreaterManchesterThe East Greater Manchester Regional TeamTameside (including Peak Valley), Oldhamand RochdaleThe East Regional Team has a strong localpresence, reflected in the situation of its twooffices in Hattersley, Tameside and Hollins,Oldham and comprises:Regional Manager – Frank MullinNeighbourhood staff working from the Peak Valley Office at100 Hattersley Road East, Hattersley, SK14 3EQ are:Local Neighbourhood Manager – Joanne DanaherNeighbourhood Officers – Sara Mihranian, Helen Woolliscroftand Sharon LockeNeighbourhood Support Officer – Chris RawcliffeCustomer Support Officer – Diane HiltonNeighbourhood staff working from Oldham at Avenues Office,50 First Avenue, Oldham, OL8 3SH are:Local Neighbourhood Manager – Paul CharnockNeighbourhood Officers – Shaleen Booth and Sue OatesNeighbourhood Support Officer – Sandra BushThe Lancashire Regional TeamPreston, South Ribble, Blackburn, RibbleValley, Chorley, Morecambe/LancasterThe Lancashire Regional Team covers a largegeographical area and is based at theAvenham Office in Preston and comprises:Regional Manager – Janice ThompsonNeighbourhood Officers – Diane Cato and Lisa BainesNeighbourhood Support Officer – Adele MullenCustomer Support Officer – Stephanie WilkinsonCentral GreaterManchester, Cheshireand MerseysideThe Central Greater Manchester, Cheshireand Merseyside TeamManchester, Salford, Trafford, Cheshire East,Stockport, Liverpool and the WirralThe team is based at Salford Quays and comprises:Regional Manager – Peter CoventryNeighbourhood Officers – Anne McGrath,Michelle Peart-Simpson, Tariq Julani, RichardSmith, Gwyneth Lloyd and Paul LathamNeighbourhood Support Officer – Pearl HickmanCustomer Support Officer – Helen HudsonThe North Greater Manchester Regional TeamBolton and BuryThe team are based at 12 Silverwell Street,Bolton and at the Rivers Office in Whitefield,Bury and comprises:Regional Manager – Karen HughesNeighbourhood Officers – Val Fisher, TonyNylan, Mohammed Qumran, Lesley Riley and Julie ToomeyNeighbourhood Support Officers – Howard Davis andNadeem IqbalCustomer Support Officer – Linzi StoneRent to Home-buy & Intermediate Rents Officer – Clare Mackinnon5

Customer RequestNo Smoking Please!Contour Homes has a duty of care to its employees andcontractors to ensure that wherever they work on behalf ofthe organisation, they do so in an environment which is safeand healthy for them to do so.These obligations extend not only to our offices andvehicles, but also to other premises, for exampleresidents’ homes.Just as we have a ‘No Smoking Policy’ which prohibitsemployees, contractors and customers from smoking in ourpremises, it is unreasonable to expect them to have to workin other locations i.e. residents’ homes, where smoking istaking place whilst they carry out their duties.We would therefore request residents not to smoke if ourstaff or contractors are visiting or carrying out work in theirhomes, and ask for your co-operation in ensuring ouremployees are able to work in a healthy, smoke freeenvironment, whilst undertaking their duties.Thank you for your assistance in this matter.If you would like help and support to stop smoking pleasecontact: www.smokefree.nhs.uk6

Community SafetyContour Homes ClampDown on Drug DealersTwo drug dealers well known by their respectivecommunities and various agencies were evicted fromContour Homes properties after successful legal actionagainst them.One of the tenants, was evicted for cultivating cannabisplants in his family home in one of the bedrooms, with anapproximate street value of £18,500. He was also foundwith other class B drugs with an approximate streetvalue of £4,500.The other tenant, was evicted in April 2012 aftera long legal process and breaching theconditions of his Court Order. The residentopenly sold drugs to young people overmany years. He was very elusive, butfinally on one of the police searcheshe was caught red handed inpossession of illegal drugs, with intent to supply and hewas sentenced to 16 months for this offence.The legal action to evict them was a success due topartnership working, and Stockport East NeighbourhoodTeam and Wilmslow Police brought the matter to asuccessful end.Contour Homes enforce Tenancy Agreements to makesure that all its residents can enjoy living in peaceand safety.If you are a victim of antisocial behaviour, pleasedo not suffer in silence, do report it. We willsupport you and tackle the problem fromthe root.Telephone the Customer Contact andSupport Team on 0345 602 1120.7

Continuous ImprovementTenant and ResidentsSurvey 2012Thank you to everyone who gave their timeto tell us what they thought about ourservices in the recent survey. 81.4% ofrespondents said they were satisfied withthe overall service and we are pleased thatthis is an improvement on the last survey in2008. We are looking into the feedback inmore detail now to assess which areas youthink we need to improve the most, and willupdate you on the progress in the nextedition of iNside.Our␣Commitment␣to␣YOU…Over␣the␣last␣year␣NeighbourhoodOfficers␣have␣been␣puttingtogether␣Neighbourhood␣Plans,listening␣to␣what␣you␣tell␣us␣aboutthe␣local␣things␣that␣matter␣toyou.␣Here␣are␣some␣of␣thefindings␣and␣responses:-8‘You␣said’ –␣We␣are␣havingproblems␣with␣youths␣atflats␣in␣Derwent␣Ave␣in␣Whitefield’‘We␣did’ –␣Alterations␣to␣theentrance␣door␣opening␣andyou␣told␣us␣you␣feel␣moresecure␣in␣your␣homes␣now‘You␣said’ –␣It␣was␣difficultfor␣you␣to␣receive␣deliveriesto␣our␣high␣rise␣homes␣on␣abusy␣street␣in␣Preston‘We␣did’ –␣We␣created␣a‘hard␣standing’␣for␣deliveryvans␣to␣park␣on␣outside␣ofthe␣flatsThis␣year␣we␣would␣like␣to␣develop␣theplans␣further␣and␣across␣each␣of␣ourregions␣our␣priorities␣will␣be␣to␣focus␣on:• Improvements␣we␣agree␣with␣you␣atscheme␣&␣estate␣inspections• Working␣with␣you␣and␣other␣localorganisations␣to␣improve␣the␣areawhere␣you␣live• Tackling␣crime␣and␣any␣fear␣ofcrime␣where␣you␣live• Supporting␣community␣events␣and␣awards• Making␣best␣use␣our␣homes␣to␣meetcurrent␣and␣new␣customer’s␣needsWe␣are␣currently␣working␣withresidents,␣carrying␣out␣localconsultations␣on␣Neighbourhood␣Plansand␣we␣will␣keep␣you␣regularlyupdated␣on␣progress.␣

Our Performance…We monitor and review our performance regularly so we can identify what we need to improve on. It is important tous that we are open and honest about our performance, so that residents have a clear picture of how we are doing.We use a number of Key Performance Indicators to measure ourselves against and report on how we are doingagainst the target and what the trend in performance is, to see if we are getting better or worse. PerformanceInformation relating to all our service areas for the financial year 2011/12 will be included in our Annual Report thatwill be sent out in October. In this edition of iNside, we are focusing on the Customer Contact Centre Performance.Our␣PerformancePerformance Indicator Our Target Oct to Jan to Are we achieving Are we gettingDec 2011 March 2012 our target? better or worse?% of calls answered in 20 seconds 80% 69.3% 44.8%% of calls abandoned 5% 5.2% 11.8%% of customers satisfied withcall handling 90% 87% 89%We recognise that performance on answering calls is not as good as it could be and we are working toimprove this. In Summer 2011, an independent review of the Contact Centre was carried out and this hasresulted in a 12 month implementation plan that started in January 2012. An Implementation Group and twoCustomer Services Committee Champions are working to ensure that the plan and vision for the CustomerContact team is implemented. We will provide updates in future editions of iNside.If you would like to comment on any of the aboveperformance information, or if you would like furtherinformation on how we are achieving our targets orhow we are working to improve performance, pleasecontact Sharon Dawson on 0345 602 1120.KeyCurrent performance is within 5% of targetCurrent performance is between 5% and10% below targetCurrent performance is below 10% of targetImproved performance over the quarterNo change in performance over the quarterAnnual␣ReportInstead␣of␣receiving␣your␣usual␣copy␣ofiNside␣this␣Autumn,␣we␣will␣be␣sending␣you␣acopy␣of␣ourAnnual␣Report,which␣is␣writtenby␣residents,␣forresidents.␣Thiswill␣be␣publishedin␣October␣2012and␣will␣includelots␣moreinterestinginformation␣abouthow␣we␣are␣doing.Performance has got worse over the quarter9

New DevelopmentsBuilding for an Energy Efficient FutureWe are all under pressure to use less energy, less water andto save money as household bills increase and we arewarned of the impact of global warming – so at ContourHomes we are working hard to do something about it!Contour Homes is building and refurbishing homes so thatthey are energy efficient and cheaper for tenants to live in.Working with our partners, the BRE* (The Building andResearch Establishment), we are delivering 3 pilot projectsto look at different ways we can build and refurbish homes toprotect the environment and save you money in the future.St Marys, OldhamAt St Mary’s we are building 93 homes for sale and rent. Allof the homes will be built to the highest of standards, but sixof them will be particularly special, four homes will be builtto the ‘Code 6’ standard and two will be what are called‘Passivhaus’ homes.Passivhaus is a style of building that originated in Germanyin the early 1990’s, and is now the fastest growing energystandard in the world. The Code for Sustainable HomesLevel 6 (otherwise referred to as ‘Code 6’) will reflect thehighest level of sustainable construction currentlyaccredited within the UK building industry. Each differentstyle of construction considers a different way of how tomake a home more efficient by using better insulation, byconserving water and using different kinds of renewabletechnologies like solar panels.We are hoping to draw direct comparisons between the twoapproaches so we can learn lessons to apply to the homeswe build for tenants and resident in the future. The newhomes are due for completion later in 2012.Bowker Street, SalfordWhere the St Mary’s project offers money saving new buildhomes built from scratch, the six Victorian terraced housesat Bowker Street offer an entirely different challenge, theyare being refurbished to achieve greater energy efficiencyequal to and better than most of the new build homes builtand available for private sale today – *SAP A & B!Once completed, these homes will retain the space andcharacter of Victorian terraces while offering the highestlevels of energy efficiency. The properties will offer a uniqueinsight into how other homes of all ages, shapes and sizescan be improved to achieve similar energy saving results.What next?To ensure we can capture all of the learning from theseprojects we will ensure a system of monitoring and analysisis established to monitor the performance of each propertyand what this means in terms of the day to day habits anddomestic costs for the tenants who live there.Once the homes are completed, we will study them tounderstand what the benefits are; we will then use what welearn to improve the homes we build and refurbish in thefuture to ensure they are more environmentally friendly andcheaper for residents to run.If you would like to learn more, please visit our website atwww.contourhomes.co.uk*B.R.E. – BRE helps government, industry and business tomeet the challenges of our built environment.*SAP Bands – The energy efficiency rating is a measure of theoverall efficiency of a home. The higher the rating, the moreenergy efficient the home is and the lower the fuel bills will be.11

Revenue ServicesDo you need help getting a job?Want to get big product discountsand low interest finance rates?Smarterbuys is the exciting new website that helps you buythe essential things you need, at massively discounted prices!They offer one amazing deal every month. It could be afridge, washing machine, bed, sofa or any of the essentialitems you might need for your home, and there are a range ofpayment options to suit you. Whether you have a bankaccount or not, you can pay with a debit card, cash, or canaccess low-interest affordable finance through Credit Unions.We know some other high street stores and websites offer lowweekly prices for goods, but you end up repaying far more thanthe goods should have cost you, because of their huge interestrates. It is a false economy and we do not think that is fair. Thatis why we are working with Credit Unions to help you accessthe lowest interest rates with the minimum amount of hassle.So you not only get a huge discount on the products you want,you get low cost finance too. It is about helping you to makeyour money go further, and making smarter buys.Smarterbuys is supported by Contour Homes. If you do nothave internet access at home, we can advise you on placeswithin your community where you can get internet access freeof charge (such as local libraries or your local housing office).To subscribe, visit www.smarterbuys.org.uk or followthem on twitter: @smarterbuys12The G4S Family Support Programme is being deliveredacross Salford by a team of specialist Advisors.The programme is voluntary, and will provide you witha dedicated Advisor who will help you to access thesupport you need at the right time.Your Advisor will help you to:• Build your confidence and help improve yourcurrent circumstances• Search for jobs, complete application forms andprepare for interviews• Improve your communication skills• Improve your skills and help you learn new ones,including basic maths, English, IT and specific workrelated skills• Achieve qualifications and build a work history• Create a CV and covering letter• Manage your money and deal with your debts withone-to-one support• Manage and improve your family relationships throughaccess to counselling or tailored courses• Improve your housing situationWork Solutions is delivering this programme across Bury,Salford, Manchester, Tameside, Stockport and Warrington.If you live in any of these areas and would like moreinformation on how to access the G4S Family SupportProgramme, please contact us on 0161 359 3338 oremail: info@work-solutions.org.ukThe G4S Family Support Programme is part financed bythe European Social Fund

Welfare Reform UpdateThe Government is currently changing the way benefitsare calculated and paid. The changes will affect manytenants and how much benefit they get paid.What are the main things that may affect you?• Universal Credit• Benefit Cap• Under Occupation Penalty• Non-dependent Charges• Stopping direct payments to landlordsUniversal CreditA range of benefits (currently paid to people ofworking age) will be paid to you in a single payment.The benefits being replaced by Universal Creditinclude Income Support, Income Based Job SeekersAllowance, Income Related Employment and SupportAllowance, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit andWorking Tax Credit.If you are claiming any of these benefits you will be movedon to Universal Credit on a phased basis from 2013.Benefit CapThe total amount of benefits a person or couple isentitled to will be capped at around £26,000. The capwill be set at the average net earnings for a workinghousehold. This might mean for some people they getless benefit.Under Occupation PenaltyIf you are aged between 16 and 62 (you turn 62 during2013) and you have at least one spare bedroom in acouncil or housing association home, then from April2013 you could have your Housing Benefit reducedas a penalty for under-occupying your home. Thereduction is likely to be around £12 to £22 each week.The new rules are set out below:Non-dependent ChargesIf you claim Housing Benefit and have a non-dependantperson living with you (such as an adult son, daughter,relative or friend) the amount of Housing Benefit youreceive is likely to go down (from April 2012).Stopping Direct Payment to LandlordsIf you are on Housing Benefit, it is likely that your rentor proportion of rent covered by Housing Benefit, iscurrently paid direct to your landlord.If you are of working age this money will be paiddirect to you as part of the Universal Credit (fromOctober 2013) and you will need to pay your rentto your landlord.We offer a range of help and advice to supportyou to set up bank accounts, direct debits,work out your household budget and what billsyou need to pay. Your home is at risk if youdo not pay your rent. Please contact usas soon as possible if you need helpor advice.More information about why theGovernment is introducing thesechanges is available online. Visitwww.dwp.gov.ukWe are here to helpIf you have any questionsabout these changes andwhat it means for you, pleasecontact your Financial InclusionOfficer on 0345 602 1120.Members of the family No. of bedroomentitlementAdult couple 1Adult over the age of 16 1Two children of same sexaged under 16 1One boy and one girlaged under 10 1Single child 113

Working In PartnershipModular Pod is Home from HomeContour Homes has recently provided a modular ‘pod’ to beused by a family in Preston with a severely disabled son.Dean, who recently turned 30, has very complex medicalneeds and despite the hard work involved in caring for him,his parents Annette and Tony Parkinson have cared for himall of his life.The family have lived in a Contour bungalow for 12 years, butafter a visit to the family back in 2011, it was noted that theircurrent accommodation no longer met the needs of Dean andnone of the family had any privacy. Following this theIndependent Living Team set to work to help the family lookat alternative options.Contour Homes held a succession of meetings to look foralternative options and discussed these with Dean and hisfamily, however it soon become apparent that the only optionavailable, on this occasion, was the installation of a modularpod, which would be better suited to Deans complex needs.The pod could be used for Dean and his carers without theneed to leave their family home. Dawn Thornber from theIndependent Living Team, who led on the project said: “Theliving accommodation had to provide a place for Dean’s 24/7care including sleeping, bathing, toileting and play, the podcan be used by the family for as long as they need it, andthen for future use by other Contour Homes families, thusproviding a viable use of funding.”Since the pod was installed earlier this year, family life for theParkinson’s has changed dramatically. Annette and Tony havesome privacy away from carers and are able to enjoy sometime to themselves, and Dean loves his new space, theproblem now is getting Dean out of the pod!The␣Pod␣being␣delivered…14L-R – Tony and AnnetteParkinson, GrahamRoss (C3S) andDawn Thornber

Right to Buy OpportunitiesTo Buy orNot to Buy?The government have recently lifted the cap on Rightto Buy discounts meaning that qualifying tenants cannow receive much higher discounts than previously.You can now get up to £75,000 discount whenbuying your home via the Right to Buy scheme.To qualify for the Right to Buy scheme, you musthave been living in your home as a secure or assuredcouncil tenant at the time of a stock transfer.Discount entitlement is calculated as follows:Length of Tenancy tenancy Discount Discount House FlatHouse Flat5 35% 50%10 40% 60%15 45% 70%20 50% 70%25 55% 70%30 60% 70%30+ 60% 70%Please note, if a considerable amount of moneyhas been spent on improving or repairing theproperty within the last 10-15 years, your discountmay be reduced.Deciding whether to buy your home is probably oneof the biggest decisions you will make, and shouldnot be rushed in to. There are some importantthings to consider:MortgageUnless you are going to buy your home with cash, youwill need a mortgage. If you do not keep up mortgagerepayments your home can be repossessed. You willnot be entitled to claim Housing Benefit towards thecost of mortgage repayments.Repairs and MaintenanceAs an owner occupier you will be responsible for theupkeep of your property, eg, if your boiler breaksyou will have to pay for it to be repaired or even areplacement boiler.Selling the PropertyIf you sell your property on within the first five yearsof ownership, you will be obliged to pay back someor the entire discount you received.WarningIf you are approached by any person or companyoffering to help you to buy your council or housingassociation home, check out what is in it for them firstand talk to your landlord before signing up to any deal.Senario 1Mrs Jones has been living in a 3 bed house for 15years and it has been valued at £80,000. She isentitled to a discount of 45% off the market value ofthe property. This equates to £36,000. Therefore, shecan buy the house for £44,000.Senario 2Mr Smith has been living in a 1 bed flat for 20 yearsand it has been valued at £50,000. He is entitled to adiscount of 70% off the market value of the property.This equates to £35,000. Therefore, he can buy the flatfor £15,000.If you would like further information on the Right toBuy scheme, please contact Helen Woodward atContour Property Services on 0345 270 3501.15

LancashireMendip Road Residentsmake a clean sweepJanice ThompsonRegional ManagerCentral Lancashire OfficeArundel Place, Avenham,Preston, PR1 3RNTelephone: 0345 602 1120Opening hours:Monday Tuesday Thursday andFriday 9:00 to 12:30 and 13:30 to16:30 (closed 1 hour for lunch)Wednesday 9:00 to 12:30Blackburn - (Surgery only)Newbarn Court, Rockcliffe Street,Blackburn BB2 3ABTel: 0345 602 1120Opening hours: Tuesday - 10am-12pmCallon Office - (Surgery only)16 Downing Street, Preston,Lancs, PR1 4RHTel: 0345 602 1120Opening hours:Monday and Wednesday - 10am - 12pmMendip Road - (Surgery only)152 Mendip Road, ChorleyTel: 0345 602 1120In May, Contour Staff, Chorley BoroughCouncil and Lancashire Radio, hosted aclean up day on the Mendip Roadestate, Preston, enabling residents (bothtenants and private owners) a chanceto have a real good clear out of allunwanted items ready for the Summer.Lancashire Radio volunteers arranged a‘litter pick’, as well as broadcasting onthe event. Chorley Borough Council andContour Homes provided the skips forthe day, and staff helped by collectingitems from homes of people who hadmobility difficulties.Following this, environmental projects willnow start on Mendip Road, which aimsto improve the brook banking that isreceding. The Council are also looking atthe possibility of providing bins along thebrook to help reduce littering.Residents on the estate welcomed theskip service, as not everyone has themeans to dispose of bulky items easily,and the residents are now lookingforward to seeing what theimprovements to the brook will bring.Whats on…• New for Callon, Preston –Workclub Drop-in sessions everyTuesday 10am to 12, starts26th June 2012 at the CallonContour Homes office.• Need specialist employmentsupport. Contour Homes is ableto refer residents to ‘TheVia Partnership’ and BootstrapEnterprises’ who can help youtake the next step to work.Please contact Sharon Kellyon 0345 602 1120.16

Half Term fun at CallonOver the last six months Callon Kids Community Club has beendelivering numerous events and activities. February half term was coldwet and windy, but this did not put off any children or parents attendingthe activities. Activities included fishing at the Brockhols Nature Reserve,a visit to Gulliver’s World in Warrington, swimming at Blackburn Wavesand a trip to the Cinema to see Alvin and the Chipmunks!Easter half term was a lot warmerand gave the children theopportunity to visit more outdoorvenues. They had a fantastic day atBamber Bridge Park with its vastarray of slides, zip lines, climbingframes and skate park. They alsovisited the local tenpin bowling alleyand Blackpool Pleasure Beach, whichturned out to be a mammoth task forthe volunteers, who had to make sureall 145 people attending got on thecorrect bus, had their tickets, packedlunches and their ‘I am lost, pleasephone this number’ stickers attachedto their coat’s.The next six months are going to beeven busier, the club are planning forthe school summer holidays and this isgoing to be six weeks of fun, fun, fun.All events and activities are deliveredby community volunteers andsupported by Contour Homes,Groundwork, and Preston CityCouncil Sports Development.Contact Colin Makinson on 0345602 1120 for more information.FishingGulliver’s WorldBamber Bridge ParkSwimming17

South Gtr Manchester, Cheshire and MerseysideYou Said, We DidPeter CoventryRegional ManagerSouth OfficeQuay Plaza 2, First Floor, Lowry Mall,Salford Quays, Salford, M50 3AHTel: 0345 602 1120Opening hours: 09:00 to 17:00Liverpool Office - (Surgery only)39b Hillview, Aigburth, Liverpool,L17 0EQTel: 0345 602 1120Opening hours:Wednesday - 14:00 to 16:00Handforth & Stockport Office26-27 The Paddock, Handforth,Cheshire, SK9 3HQTel: 0345 602 1120Opening hours:Monday 14:00-16:00, Wednesdaynd Friday 10:00-12:00Oakleigh CourtSpring has seen a welcomeincrease in carpark spaces atOakleigh Court in Sale.Residents at the scheme hadinformed Contour Homes thatparking was becoming aproblem, so after aconsultation extra bayshave been created.Eversley CourtResidents at EversleyCourt were experiencingproblems with vehiclesparking on the grassverges in front of theflats, so bollards havenow been erected toprotect these areas.Whats on…We are currently seeking toengage three unemployedindividuals to become part of ateam of established volunteerson the Healthy CommunitiesCollaborative (HCC) projectand Step 1. Through activecommunity engagement, theywill help to raise awareness ofthe early symptoms of cancerand encourage people to visittheir GP to see if they areat risk of heart disease.Please contact Sam Cooperon 0345 602 1120 formore information.Adult Learning CoursesContour Homes has been working in partnershipwith Trafford College to offer a variety of coursesfor residents at Ridgeway Park in Timperley.The courses cover basic computer and internetskills, and personal skills development includingcareer planning, money management andconfidence building.If this is successful, the course may be offeredon a regular basis with the type of subjectsavailable being expanded.18

MatchsticksBack in March 2011, Contour Homescommissioned a piece of research tolook at community cohesion in NewBroughton, Salford.The commission for the research wasawarded to The Broughton Trust, alocal regeneration charity withinterests in adult and family learning,youth work, community development,and employment support.An event was held at theMatchsticks Cafe, to share theresults with residents. On the whole,the research confirmed thatresidents were pleased with theirhomes, and happy to be living inNew Broughton.Contour Homes and Great PlacesHousing Group are now workingtogether to use the findings to set upan area Residents Association inpartnership with other organisationsand other community cohesioninitiatives. Please contact theCommunity Investment Team on0345 302 1120 for further information.Steven Court, ChorltonContour Homes is currently renovating Steven Court, oneof our general needs schemes in Chorlton. The scheme onEgerton Road South was previously 10 one-bed and 39studio properties. Following a serious flood and the lowdemand for studio accommodation, all the remainingresidents were re-housed while various options for thefuture of the scheme were considered.shops, and has the added benefit of access to the newlyextended Metrolink service. Anyone interested in rentingone of these properties should register with ManchesterHomefinder, visit - www.manchesterhomefinder.orgThe decision was made to re-develop the existing scheme,which will now be made up of 10 one-bed and 20 two-bedproperties. Work on the scheme began in April and willinvolve replacing all the major components in each property.The scheme is expected to be completed and ready for letto new tenants from March 2013. Due to the location of thisscheme all the properties will be allocated throughManchester City Councils’ Choice Based Lettings scheme.The scheme is in an excellent location in Cholton, close toThe futuredevelopmentCurrent␣flats* Image shown is Indicative only19

North Greater ManchesterMeet the NorthEnvironmental Services TeamKaren HughesRegional ManagerBolton Office12 Silverwell Street,Bolton, BL1 1PPTel: 0345 602 1120Opening hours:Every weekday exceptWednesday - 09:00 to 16:30Wednesdays - 09:00am to 12:30Whitefield Office(Surgery only)Albert Place, Off Albert Road,Whitefield, M45 8NETel: 0345 602 1120Opening hours:Monday - 14:00 to 16:00Wednesday and Friday10:00 to 12:00Whats on…Bury - Friends of Boz Parkhave secured £980 for afun day in the Summer!The North regions’ EnvironmentalServices Team went ‘live’ on 23rd April.Formerly the Rivers (Hillock) CommunityWardens, the Environmental ServicesTeam now includes two Caretakers whopreviously worked alone.Former Senior Community WardenAndrew Taylor is now The EnvironmentalServices Team Leader and is picturedwith another familiar face, Les Elkins.Les, Lois Rickerby and Darren Cosgroveare joined in the team by John Parry andJohn Lomax.The team is responsible for dealing withenvironmental issues in the vicinity ofContour Homes’ properties in the Buryand Bolton areas.“These are exciting new times for all theteam”, said Andrew. “We are meetingnew people and going to differentplaces. We hope to work alongside allContour Homes residents with a view toimproving their localities.”John Lomax added, ”For the past 10 yearsI have been working alone at Stonechurchin Bolton. Now I am part of a team and feelmuch happier in the knowledge that I havesupport from colleagues.”Karen Hughes, Regional Manager for theNorth region said: “We are lookingforward to being able to provide all ofour residents across the Bolton and Buryregion, with a first class service aimed atmaking our communities a cleaner andsafer place to live”.John Parry is the Cleaner/Caretaker atBerkshire Court in Bury, which will nowbe visited by other members of the teamif John is absent.To contact the team telephone0345 602 1120.20

New Gates for Moss LaneResidents of Moss Lane, Whitefield are pleased with theirnewly erected gates and fencing following a report ofvandalism to vehicles at the scheme.The Environmental Services Team were approached by residentsof the scheme, and following a consultation arranged to havesecure gates and fencing erected around the carpark area.Some of the residents also got together and provided a lockand key for the gates, which are now locked every night andopened every morning by the residents themselves.Resident Norah Burgess-Ripley said: “Many thanks from allMoss Lane residents for the railings, gates and sign.Hopefully this will deter the hooligans, thank you once againfor your help.”Resident␣Norah␣with␣the␣new␣gatesAny local tenant or resident suffering similar problems shouldget in touch with the North Region Environmental Service Teamon 0345 602 1120 and we will discuss possible solutions.Rivers Garden ClubThe Rivers (Hillock) Garden Club is preparing for a colourful summer. Vice Chairof the club, Contour Homes tenant Bernard Philbin, is pictured ‘pricking out’seedlings in the community greenhouse on Albert Road, Whitefield. “I find thisvery relaxing and therapeutic” said Bernard, ”Mind you, we still have somedigging to do!”One project the club has been involved in is the growing wildflowers from seedssuch as the hundreds of red campions in the photograph below. The flowers willthen be planted on neighbouring Boz Park with the help of the pupils from thethree local primary schools.Bernard␣seedingThe garden club meets every Tuesday morning at St. Michael’s Parish Hall. Manyfriendships have evolved as a result of the club and new members are always welcome.If anyone wishes to join the club or start a similar club in other parts of Bury orBolton, please contact the North Region’s Environmental Services Team on0345 602 1120.The␣red␣campions␣make␣a␣beautiful␣arrangement21

East Greater ManchesterHollinwood EventsHollinwood organisations and localresidents recently got together to forman events group. The group have agreedto run events around various areas ofHollinwood. The first event was aValentines party, and this was led byContour Homes. The event was held atOldham Rugby Club and broughtresidents together.Frank MullinRegional ManagerAvenues and Hollins Office(Surgery only)50 First Avenue, Oldham,OL8 3SHTel: 0345 602 1120Opening hours:Monday - 14:00 to 16:00Wednesday and Friday10:00 to 12:00Peak Valley Housing Office100 Hattersley Road East,Hattersley, Cheshire, SK14 3EQTel: 0345 270 3501Opening hours:Every weekday exceptWednesday: 09:00 to 16:00Wednesdays 09:00 to 12:00Whats OnWe are working in partnershipwith the Mancunian Reunioncommunity group and HattersleyNeighbourhood Partnership to assistthem to access funding and createnew partnerships which couldsupport a sustainable communicationvehicle such as a magazine thatwill pull together activity.We will be delivering ‘VeryPhilosophical’ sessions to studentsfrom Hopwood College in Rochdale.The sessions will be themedaround ‘managing your money’ andwill help to raise awareness onthe realities of becomingtenants for the first time.22The Hollinwood Work ClubNew Benches for Dovedale CourtResidents at Dovedale Court, Middletonhave recently benefited from newbenches in the communal area.Following a request from the DovedaleCourt Garden Club, NeighbourhoodOfficer Sandra Bush set out to sourcesome funding. The benches have nowbeen installed and the residents are verypleased with their new seating. In additionto this, Contour Homes have alsodonated some more plants and hangingbaskets to the scheme, so that they cannow sit back and enjoy their hard work!The Hollinwood Work Club is run by ContourHomes, it is a joint project with Oldham libraries,Regenda First and Hollinwood Children’s Centre.The Club helps people to gain confidence, learncomputer skills, complete application forms, completeCV’s, learn interview techniques, and is a place wherejob seekers can help and support each other – so far,26 people have successfully found employment.Residents␣with␣their␣new␣Benches

Time Banking Scheme at HattersleyThe Hattersely Neighbourhood Partnership has been gettinginvolved in a new timebanking scheme, that is designed tohelp people to swap skills and services, without using money.This is an exciting scheme that enables people to takeadvantage of the skills available in their local community.With Time Banking you can get someone to wash your car,do some ironing or even give you sports lessons for FREE!All that is asked is that you give a small amount of your time,to someone else who needs it.Everyone has a skill that is needed by someone else. Justchoose something that you really like to do, such as baking orgardening, and every single hour that you give earns you atime credit. You can either spend these credits yourself ordonate them to someone else.Anyone, of any age, background and skill can join the TimeBank. The list of skills that are required is endless and it isalways worth asking if you need something done to see ifthere is someone with the skills to meet your needs.By joining, you will meet more people in your community andbe part of a productive and friendly service.What’s the catch?There is no catch, all you have to do is give time and spendtime, give time when you can and spend time as you need it.Who organises Time Banking?Time Brokers are employed by Volunteer Centre Tameside tocoordinate the project. They keep records of members andtheir skills and help to match them to requests for time swaps.How do I join?Contact the Volunteer Centre Tameside to have an informal chatand find out more information about when the next meeting willbe held in Hattersley. For more information, or to join, telephoneElaine or Julie on 0161 339 2345, or emailelaine@tamesidevb.org.uk Alternatively call Step Ahead on0161 368 2096 or call in at the Neighbourhood Partnership Office,10-13 Kingston Arcade (Hattersley Precinct) to collect a leaflet.Limeside Media ProjectResidents in Hollinwood have recently gained new skillsin Photography and IT. Funding was awarded from theBig Lottery for the project after a voting campaign wassuccessful. The funding (£9,741) has paid forphotography and IT equipment such as laptops,cameras, a video camera, projector screen. It is hopedthat the equipment will increase usage of the Avenuesand Hollins Community Hall. The funding also paid for aninitial 6 week course for 12 residents. For more informationon up and coming events in Hollinwood, please visitwww.hollinwoodtogether.co.ukHere are some comments from residents who havetaken part:‘ I␣feel␣more␣confident␣in␣using␣a␣computer’␣Ron␣Street‘ The␣course␣has␣helped␣my␣confidence␣considerably’␣Ramo␣Kabbani‘ I’ve␣met␣new␣people␣and␣feel␣better␣in␣myself’␣Kay␣Forrest‘ My␣thanks␣go␣to␣Sarah␣for␣arranging␣this␣course’␣Steven␣Ingram23

Independent LivingThe Sheltered ForumDo you live in Older Personsaccommodation? If so, we would like toinvite you to attend the Sheltered Forum.Gill LongIndependent Living ManagerHead OfficeQuay Plaza 2, First Floor,Lowry Mall, Salford Quays,Salford, M50 3AHTel: 0345 602 1120Opening hours:09:00 to 17:00Whats on…Join up to ‘Race online2012’ to give just an hourof your time and show oneof the 8.7M people who’venever been online what adoddle, what a giggle andhow useful the wonderfulweb can be. For moreinformation please visitwww.raceonline2012.orgIf you would like to shape and drive theservices you receive at a local level, thenthe Sheltered Forum is for youBeing part of this group is a greatopportunity to really make a difference,influence decisions and address andresolve issues.Some comments from residents whoattend the forum:Denis from Greenfield Court said: “Youfind out lots of information and meet likeminded people.”Molly from Lancashire said: “You learnnew skills and new subject matters,which is interesting and informative andI enjoy listening to other peoples’ pointsof view.”Colin from Lancashire said: “By attendingwe get to have our say/influence on newpolicies which will affect us as tenants.”The next Sheltered Forum is on 13thSeptember, please contact Wanda Deanon 0345 602 1120 for further information.24

Silver Surfers DayOur mission for the day was to link Woods Court inMiddleton, with a sheltered scheme in Liverpool, sothat our tenants could chat to fellow group memberresidents of Liverpool Housing Trust (LHT), play bingoand take part in a quiz, and also discuss interestingfacts about their schemes.With the expert help of Chris Murphy our residentcomputer whizz at Woods Court and a willingvolunteer, Andrew Bardsley we prepared theequipment. Debbie Derbyshire and Sandra O’Neill ofLHT were busy doing similar things at their schemeand we kept in touch by telephone. We did make aninternet connection, but unfortunately it got repeatedlyinterrupted by the steady downpour, and we wonderedwhether instead of getting the laptop out we shouldstart work on an Ark!Contour Homes and Peak Valley are looking for residentswho are proficient in using the internet to help other residentswho have never been online. The initiative is part of anational project called Race Online and it is about putting theextra hour gained when the clocks go back to good use.For more information on becoming a Digital Champion,please contact Sam Cooper, Community InvestmentOfficer, on 0345 602 1120.The Woods Court residents were eager to try outSkype (an internet tool used speak, see and instantmessage other people) and to see what it would belike. They managed to get some brief conversationwith the tenants over in Merseyside, but in the end itwas 1:0 to the weather! We finished off the day with aquiz, some refreshments and a very exciting round ofwhat the tenants called ‘analogue bingo’ withthat old fashioned stuff calledpen and paper!The Brain Drain QuizIn May we launched our first inter-scheme quiz.Where teams from across the region used theirgrey matter to great affect, in this inter-schemechallenge. The quiz organiser, Housing ServicesCo-ordinator, Richard Harris is pictured here withthe team from Greenfield Court in Lancaster. Thequiz is going to be run throughout the year and atthe end of the year, the most successful team willbe awarded The Brain Drain Trophy. If yourscheme would like to take part, please contactRichard Harris on 0345 602 1120.Richard␣Harris␣(right)␣with␣residents␣of␣Greenfield␣Court25

Community ProjectsIt’s All About You...Wherever you go, people want to know your business.Your age, gender, sexuality, race, whether you are disabled…where does all this information go? It goes to help make thingsbetter, that’s where it goes. It tells us where to direct ourservices and makes sure you get the right slice of what youare paying for. We cannot change things without your help.Your Neighbourhood and Customer Contact and SupportTeams, or in fact anyone that works for Contour Homes mayask you for pieces of missing information over the telephoneor in person. This is because we have a new, sophisticatedsystem in place in order to best tailor our services for you.We do not mean to sound nosey when we ask you over thephone, we are just trying to make sure we have the correctdetails. If you would rather complete in the form yourself, justlet us know and we will send it out to you.We are currently, taking income and benefits information tobest help you through the Welfare Reform and we are askingyou what we can do differently for you so that we can tailorour services and deliver excellent customer service.For example, if you have told us you need us to telephone acarer before we visit you, we will make sure we do that. Ormaybe you have asked us to bear in mind that you currentlyhave a broken leg, so we need to give you extra time inanswering the door or telephone, and will ensure our staff andcontractors know this.It is quite natural to feel protective of your personal information.It is not only natural, it is sensible. But if we do not know who isout there, we cannot be expected to get it right. Some peopleworry about giving information in case it falls into the wronghands, but we follow very strict laws to ensure we protect yourdetails and deal with them responsibly.I hope this has allayed any concerns you might have aboutwhy we are taking this information, but if you would like tospeak to someone in further detail about this you can callBelinda Hayes, Insight Officer on 0345 602 1120 or emailbeinvolved@symphonyhousing.org.uk26

NoticeboardFor the third year running The BigChin Rub community philosophydiscussion will take place this July– It brings people together todiscuss big questions in life - ifyou are a member of a group thatwould like to take part or you arejust interested in why weencourage this please contact SamCooper on 0345 602 1120,sam.cooper@symphonyhousing.org.ukor take a look on our websitewww.veryphilosophical.comHow you can payYou can now pay your rent using any of thefollowing methods. Direct Debit is Contour Homes’preferred method of payment because ofconvenience and cost. Should you have difficultypaying your rent, please contact your RevenueServices Officer on 0345 602 1120.St Mary’sWebsiteThe St Mary’s communitywebsite is now up andrunning at:www.oconline.zxq.net27

Insight and EngagementAward Categories:• Community Safety• Going Green• Good Neighbour• Overcoming Adversity• Outstanding Young PersonAwards 2012• Making a Difference inthe Community• Going the Extra Mile (staff)• Going the Extra Mile(contractor operative)?28Planning for this year’s imPaCt Awards is now underwayand we need you to nominate the people in yourcommunity who you think have truly made a difference.You will find a copy of the nomination form as aninsert in this magazine.A Shape My Service group of residents has beenformed to help steer the planning of the awards,choose the award categories, and select the winnersand the runners-up.One of the group’s main aims is to encourage as manyresidents as possible to submit nomination forms. AnnRawlins, a member of the group, believes that there arecountless unsung heroes in our neighbourhoods.She said: ‘There are so many people that help othersand never ask for praise or thanks. Surely everyonemust know someone they can nominate.’The group has decided to introduce two new awards:Overcoming Adversity for those who have overcomepersonal difficulties and Going the Extra Mile(contractors) to recognise the achievement of ourcontractor’s operatives.The Shape My Service group has also decided toexpand on those who can be nominated foran award to include our Leaseholders too.A talent contest for our tenants andresidents will take place in July with theaim of finding some home-grown talentwithin our communities to provide theentertainment at the AwardsCeremony. Auditions will take placeat Unsworth Cricket Club in Bury,please contact Claire Rimmer on0345 602 1120 for more information.Maureen Tucker, a Shape My Service group membersaid: “there must be so much talent we don’t knowabout right across Contour Homes and Peak Valley.This is their chance to have the limelight.”The high-profile awards ceremony will take place atThe Monastery in Gorton, Manchester on 18thOctober and there are spaces for 130 residents, staffand partners. The event will be hosted by the BritishParalympics Champion, Danny Crates and staff fromSymphony Housing Group.A nomination form is enclosed with this newsletter,and must be submitted to the Insight and EngagementTeam by Friday 10th August 2012. Alternativelyapplication forms can be downloaded from ourwebsite www.contourhomes.co.uk collectedfrom our offices, requested by emailbeinvolved@symphonyhousing.org.uk or viatelephone on 0345 602 1120.Completed forms can be returned to any of our officesor emailed to beinvolved@symphonyhousing.org.ukimPaCt Award Winners 2011?

Resident TrainingProgramme 2012Contour Homes and Peak Valley have launched aresident training programme to cater for all interestsand abilities. The courses are free to tenants andresidents from Contour Homes and Peak Valley.We have split the courses into different categories whichreflect resident’s motivations for doing the courses.We would welcome any feedbackon the training programme and weare always open to new ideas abouthow the training calendar canevolve in the future. If you wouldlike to book onto one of ourcourses please contact theInsight and Engagement Teamon 0345 602 1120 or by email atbeinvolved@symphonyhousing.org.ukResident InspectorsThe Resident Inspectors have now completed their firstscrutiny project focusing on scheme/estate inspections.A Report has been produced including recommendationsfor service delivery improvements and presented to theCustomer Services Committee.The Report and Desktop Review has been a huge successfor the Inspectors. It has been positively received anddemonstrates that real scrutiny can drive forwardimprovements to service delivery.If you would like to view a copy of this latest report, or areinterested in becoming a Resident Inspector please visit thewebsite www.contourhomes.co.uk or telephone 0345 602 1120.29

RecipesSummer SmoothiesIngredientsFor Smoothie Base• 1-2 handfuls of ice• One and a half cups of milk• ¼ cup of vanilla yogurt• 3 scoops of ice cream (optional)• 3 tablespoons of double cream(optional)• 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)Suggested Flavour Combinations• 1 banana and 3 handfulsof strawberries• 1 banana and3 handfulsof raspberries• 2 fresh peaches (stoneremoved) or 1 can of peaches(the juice can be includedor drained) and 1 mango(stone removed)• 2 bananas and 1 tablespoon ofchocolate spread• 2 handfuls of blueberries and 2handfuls of raspberries• Any combination of fruitsof your choiceMethodPreparation time: 5-10 minutesNo cooking required1. Peel, trim and remove any stones fromyour choice of fruit(s) as necessary andcut into small pieces.2. Place the fruit in a bowl if using a handblender or blender jug.3. Add the ice, milk, yogurt and any optionalextras to the fruit.4. Blend to a smooth consistency. More orless milk may be required to obtain yourpreferred thickness. For a smootherconsistency the mixture may be sieved.5. Pour into glasses and enjoy! Deliciousserved with chocolate covered shortbread!30

Fun and PuzzlesSpot thedifferencefor KidsSpot the 8 changes and you could win £25 in GiftVouchers. Ring the differences then ask an adult to cutout and send your entry to the address below. Don’tforget to include your name, address and your age.Last EditionWinnersWordsearchM HareSpot the DifferenceG WalkerContour Homes, Freepost RPAU-JBLE-CUJX, Quay Plaza2, First Floor Lowry Mall, Salford Quays, Salford M50 3AHSummer WordsearchFind all 18 words, cut out and send your completedwordsearch to us and you could win £25.AugustBarbequeBlueskyBucketandspadeCampingDeckchairsFestivalsFunfairGardeningGardenpartyHolidaysIcecreamIcecubesJulyJuneMarqueeOlympicgamesParasolRemember to include your name, addressand telephone. The address is:RoyaljubileeSandalsSeasideSuitcaseSummerSunSunglassesSuntanE S A C T I U S E K H J S B FR E M F P M N D J O W R B U UH S J A M A I A L U I V A C NR S U L E S R I T A N R R K FS A L Y A R D A H N O E B E AE L Y E T A C C S Y U L E T IB G S F Y R K E A O U S Q A RU N U S E C A L C E L T U N GC U M I E S J P S I S N E D NE S M D E U T K N U N W E S IC A E M B G Y I G E S T U P PI F R I P D T U V U D Q Q A ML S L A D N A S N A P R R D AS E M A G C I P M Y L O A E CE G A R D E N I N G O S M G ZContour Homes, Freepost RPAU-JBLE-CUJX,Quay Plaza 2, First Floor Lowry Mall, Salford Quays,Salford M50 3AH.31

This is a newsletter, if youare having difficulty reading orunderstanding this document, wecan provide this copy in largeprint, braille, audio, or you couldrequest a translation. Pleasecontact our Customer Contact andSupport Team on 0345 602 1120.RNID Text RelayText phone user? Contact us via RNIDText Relay– dial 18001 0345 602 1120(There is no extra charge to your call)Contour Homes would like to express their appreciation to the following people, without whom this magazinewould not have been possible:Ann Rawlins, Len Lloyd, Christine Tomlinson, Veronica Shaw, Yvonne Carrington, Residents of Mendip Road, Callon KidsCommunity Club, Bernard Philbin and Rivers Garden Club, Norah Burgess-Ripley, Residents of Dovedale Court,Residents of Hollinwood, Residents of Greenfield Court, Residents of Woods Court and Annette & Tony Parkinson.If you have a comment about the Magazine, our service to you, or any housing related subject we would be delighted toconsider it for publication in a future issue of iNside. You can send your contributions to Alison Birch at Contour Homes,Quay Plaza 2, First Floor - Lowry Mall, Salford Quays, Salford M50 3AH. Alternatively you can email themto alison.birch@symphonyhousing.org.uk - don’t forget to include your name, address & telephone number.Design expertly craftedby Gaskell & Holt StudioPrint and finish skillfullyengaged by CPL design + printYou can now follow us on Twitter:www.twitter.com/beinvolved_chThis paper ismade from100% recycledmaterialHead Office: Quay Plaza 2, 1st Floor - Lowry Mall, Salford Quays, Salford M50 3AH.Tel: 0345 602 1120. Fax: 0161 745 9393.Email: mail@contourhomes.co.uk. www.contourhomes.co.ukContour Homes is an industrial and provident society (registered No. 23607R) with charitable status.A member of Symphony Housing Group.