One Manchester's customer magazine
homes health community support
ISSUE 3, 2018
Families & community issue
Greenfingered
neighbours
Page 4
Kids just
want to
have fun
Page 9
A day in
the life of a
One Youth
Coordinator
Page 7
A helping
hand with
money and
debts
Page 16
facebook.com/inspiremagazine
Welcome to Inspire Magazine
Contact us
Email
enquiries@onemanchester.co.uk
Call us on
0330 355 1002
Call Monday to Friday from 8am-5.30pm.
You can also phone this number for
emergency repairs (where there is a
danger to health or safety), 24 hours a
day, seven days a week and you’ll be
transferred to the out-of-hours service.
Address
One Manchester, Lovell House,
Archway 6, Hulme, M15 5RN
We get lots of calls about issues dealt
with by Manchester City Council.
Please visit www.manchester.gov.uk
where you can find contact information.
We’d love to hear
all your stories...
Welcome to the third issue
of 2018 which is our families
and community edition.
After an enjoyable summer of sport and long school holidays
for the kids, this issue we’re looking at what’s happening for
families and communities across our neighbourhoods.
Whether it’s learning new skills or sharing a hobby with
friends, residents are making the most of the community
spirit in the city.
If you have young ones, our One Youth team have lots of
creative opportunities for youngsters, whether this is once
the school day is over or during the holidays. While our
Customer Involvement team are connecting local people to
fantastic projects and groups, from gardening to DIY. Plus,
we have work and business skills advisers who can make
career dreams become a reality.
We hope you enjoy this issue and that you’re inspired to get
involved in activities in your community.
The Inspire team
Email: inspire@onemanchester.co.uk
If, like Helen on page 14, you have
a story you’d like to share, we’d love
to hear it - and so would everyone else!
Send us an email to:
inspire@onemanchester.co.ukuk
www.facebook.com/inspiremagazine @onemcr inspire@onemanchester.co.uk
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@onemcr
CONTENTS
Green-fingered neighbours
Residents in Moss Side have been creating beautiful gardens ........................ 4
Aquarius Centre re-opens its doors
The popular community centre in Hulme is back up and running .................... 5
Give your furniture a second home
A former Moss Side boiler house is bringing household items back to life ....... 5
Bringing homes to the city
An update on our latest developments ........................................................ 6
A day in the life of a One Youth Coordinator
Michelle provides opportunities for youngsters aged 5 to 25 ......................... 7
Reaching for the stars
See how the One Youth team engage with young people ............................. 8
Want to make music?
Twelve lucky young people will get the chance to be mentored ..................... 8
Kids just want to have fun in Clayton
Free activities for kids aged 3 to 18 .............................................................. 9
Investing in our communities
Our social accounts show how we have helped improve communities ......... 10
Make getting around easier
Transport for Greater Manchester are aiming to make travel easier ................ 12
Can you hear me from up here?
A project involving residents and the Royal Exchange Theatre ...................... 13
Inspired to share her own story
Read about Rosetta’s interesting and creative life ........................................ 14
Complete our childcare survey to win £25
Your feedback will help parents and carers in the future ............................... 15
Have you ever thought of a work placement?
If you’re looking for a job, a work placement is the perfect start .................... 15
A helping hand with money and debts
Did you know our One Money team can help with your money worries? ....... 16
Manage your account online
A range of services designed to make managing your tenancy easier ............ 18
Having repair work done?
Advice to make repairs go smoothly ......................................................... 20
Get your business off the ground
Realise the dream of becoming your own boss .......................................... 22
Our Catalyst Fund supports small businesses
Following our first ever Catalyst Fund, we’re doing it again! ........................ 23
See how we’re doing
Our aim is to improve in all we do ............................................................ 24
0330 355 1002 73
NEWS
Green-fingered neighbours
are making the most of the sunshine
Residents of Frank Hatton Court, the Moss Side sheltered scheme, have been enjoying this
year’s long summer by creating beautiful garden spaces that connect their homes.
They first got together after One Manchester support worker,
Anysie, had the idea. She spoke with tenants at their monthly
resident’s meeting and found everybody was keen to get
involved.
Michael lives at Frank Hatton Court and has always enjoyed
growing his own vegetables. As an enthusiastic gardener, he
wanted to help his neighbours to get started.
“I’m very friendly and sociable, and my neighbours are all
friendly people. They all know I like my garden, and now
they’ve got to know my ways. I’ve been showing them
some tips that I use in my own garden.
“I’ve got peas growing along the wall, as well as pumpkins,
courgettes and all sorts of vegetables that I use in my cooking.
“One of the ladies grows fantastic herbs and spices that she
cooks up into Indian dishes that she’ll share with us all.”
Michael’s neighbour Andy, spoke about his pleasure in seeing
their small community come together:
“I got involved through going to the monthly meetings and
seeing what Michael was doing with his garden. It made me
realise how much you could actually do. It’s opened up the
scope for so much more and Mike has really shown the way.
He’s a really nice bloke and it’s been great for us all to share
this common goal of improving the garden areas.”
We have lots of gardening projects and activities
taking place across the city. If you would like to get
involved, call 0330 355 1002 or email
customer.involvement@onemanchester.co.uk
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Aquarius Centre
re-opens its doors
NEWS
Give your furniture
a second home
A former boiler house in the heart of Moss Side
has been brought back to life with money
invested from One Manchester.
The space will be used to hold items of furniture which have
been donated. The furniture will be checked and spruced up
so it can be given to tenants who are most in need for their
homes.
Julie Blairs from the project explains:
“There is a huge demand from new tenants who just don’t
have anything when moving into their first properties. We
would appreciate donations of good quality items of furniture
such as beds, sofas, wardrobes, tables and chairs – the things
that make a house a home.
“Because of health and safety regulations we can only take
soft furnishings with their fire safety labels on.”
After the Aquarius Centre closed a few years
ago, local people were left upset at the loss
of one of their beloved community venues.
If you have any items that you would like to donate,
please contact the One Money team or email
boilerhouseproject@onemanchester.co.uk
Following a request from keen residents, our Community
Involvement team have recently helped restore the building
to its former use.
The popular community centre in Hulme now offers a job
club, arts and crafts, youth activity sessions and much more.
One delighted resident who is glad to see the centre back
up and running is Sally Casey from the Over-50s group.
“When we set up the Over-50s group, people came from
all over and it wasn’t just about keeping fit. It blossomed
into a social event, especially for people who were lonely or
stuck in their homes. Our oldest member is 86!
“I am delighted to see it open again, I really am, and I would
like to thank One Manchester. They have been very good in
this area and very supportive. There was no way we could
have opened the centre again without them.”
To find out more about activities at the Aquarius
Centre, or to use it for your community group or
project, please contact
customer.involvement@onemanchester.co.uk
0330 355 1002 75
DEVELOPMENTS
Bringing homes to the city
Many of our new-build developments are well underway across
the city, so here’s an update of where things are up to.
The Whitworths in Openshaw has now sold out, having helped 34 people to take their
first or next step on to the property ladder using Shared Ownership. We are also well on
our way to selling many of our Shared Ownership homes at Kingfisher Gardens in Gorton.
This option makes owning a property easier and more affordable for first-time buyers.
We will be launching our brand new Levenshulme development, Atlas Place, in the
next few months, which will have Shared Ownership and our first Rent to Buy homes.
Kingfisher Gardens
Rainshaw Lane, Gorton
Atlas Place
Chapel Street, Levenshulme
Homes for all ages
South Gate in Openshaw will be a mix of Affordable Rent bungalows and
Shared Ownership houses. The bungalows will be for people living with
dementia. Launching in Spring 2019 on South Street near to Openshaw
Park, the emphasis will be on creating quality homes in a safe setting.
Energy-efficient homes
Stoney Gate in Openshaw will provide 21 two and three-bedroom homes
using Passivhaus standards, which make homes more energy-efficient. These
houses will be some of the most environmentally-friendly in the area, saving the
homeowner money on their household bills every month. These homes will be
available as Rent to Buy. They will be suitable for people struggling to save for a
deposit but would like to buy at a later date. They will be launched in spring 2019.
Developing Gorton
We have also recently received planning permission to develop 26 houses
on the Oasis Community Centre site on Hyde Road in Gorton. As part of
this, we will be supporting the build of a new community centre, which
will provide modern facilities for local groups. More information on this
development will be available in future issues of Inspire Magazine.
The team from John
Southworth Builders
Giving back
to the community
Besides building much-needed
housing for our neighbourhoods,
with each development we
support our communities. We
do this with community projects,
or by using local workers and
businesses. For example, whilst
building Kingfisher Gardens,
our construction company John
Southworth Builders, have
provided so much more than just
building homes.
If you would like to
find out more, take a look
on our website at
www.onemanchester.co.uk
and click
‘Help finding a home’.
50 tree guards
for Debdale
Park’s Heroes
Wood project
Used 69%
local labour
on the site
Sourced 71%
of materials
locally
Provided an
apprenticeship
and three work
placements
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A day in the life of…
A DAY IN THE LIFE
One Youth Coordinator, Michelle
Michelle leads our youth work and helps youngsters aged 5 to 25 to access opportunities and
activities which they might not know about.
We asked Michelle to give us a glimpse of the work she is
involved in with local young people.
What services do the One Youth team provide?
“I work with every team in One Manchester and it all depends
what the young people need. If they’re struggling with their
mental health then I’ll talk to the Health and Wellbeing team.
If they’re struggling with money then I’ll talk to the One Money
team to help them find a solution. If people want jobs and
placements, then we’ll link up with the One Future team.
“We have loads of different projects on the go for young
people in different stages of life; for example our programme
for young mums. We work with them to offer tools and tips for
being a young mum, like cooking on a budget and advice on
saving money. They make friends who are in the same situation
that they can share advice with.
“Then, we also have the photography club with five-year olds.
They’ll go into the community gardens and take pictures of
plants and spiders and all sorts. It’s amazing the things they
capture. Seeing the gardens through their eyes shows you
how creative they can be.”
What do young people gain from the service?
“We deliver a programme called ‘Girl Talk’ and ‘Boy Talk’ in
schools. It’s about learning to love yourself, learning how to
understand your feelings, as well as other people’s feelings.
They write down a day in their life and share this information.
They learn things about each other that can open their eyes to
issues that they might be dealing with.
“Young people that have been through the programme
already are training to run the sessions. So, the peer mentors,
who are over 16 gain experience in leading sessions to go on
their CVs. We have loads of young people who want to do this
over the summer.”
What kind of feedback do you get?
“The feedback we get is great! The children all enjoy the
sessions we provide, and they all say they can’t wait to come
back. I went on maternity leave and when I came back it only
took about 45 minutes for the word to spread. The kids were
coming into the office to find out how I was and to see what I’d
got lined up for them.
“I take pride in knowing that the parents trust me and trust
my judgement. If I phone them up and let them know about
an opportunity, then the parents know I’ve got the kid’s best
interests at heart. For me that is really, really important.”
How do you see your role?
“For me, One Manchester isn’t about the staff, it’s about the
community and making sure the children feel like this housing
association is theirs. So, I’ll knock on doors, hand out flyers in
the street and go into schools to let everybody know about the
opportunities. If there’s something going on for the children
that they wouldn’t normally get to do, then I want them to
know about it. I always say that I’ll open the door for the kids,
but it’s up to them to walk through it.”
To find out about what’s
going on for young
people, call Michelle on
07940 758168 or email
michelle.wright@
onemanchester.co.uk
0330 355 1002 7
COMMUNITY
Reaching for the stars
The One Youth team do a fantastic job of engaging with young people in our areas.
We spoke with teenager Amayna about her experiences with the team.
“I’ve known Michelle for four years now and we’ve done lots
together. Things like doing a fashion show where we made our
own clothes, which was fantastic. I’ve also done radio work,
where I experienced being a presenter. She’ll tell us about
opportunities like this and ask us if it’s something we’re interested in.
“I’m very thankful to Michelle for helping me to achieve my biggest
accomplishment in my life so far. I wrote a play about cyber-bullying
and how it can affect people my age. Michelle helped me put
together a cast and we performed it, which was the proudest
moment of my life.”
The future for Amayna looks bright as she sets her sights on
a creative career:
“My dream is to one-day work in film, but there are a lot of
barriers that you have to face as a Muslim woman. Michelle
has helped me at every opportunity and given me so much
confidence to have a go at the things that I’m interested in.”
To find out more about the
activities available, call Michelle
on 07940 758168 or email
michelle.wright@onemanchester.co.uk
Want to make music?
Twelve lucky young people will get the chance to be
mentored by local experts and perform at live gigs!
Once a week, developing musicians aged 16 and over will
work with music leaders, whilst being mentored monthly
and performing in collaboration with Arun.
The first session will start on Friday 12 October
for a gig, followed by a session with Arun on
Saturday 13 October. There will then be
weekly sessions with a range of artists
in Z-arts very own Levi’s Music Lab.
To apply for a place,
email Yemi for an
application pack at
yemi@z-arts.org
Completed forms must be sent back to
Yemi by Friday 14 September.
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@onemcr
COMMUNITY
Kids just want to have fun in Clayton
Creative & crafty
for kids aged 3 to 11
Free arts and crafts sessions
Is your child aged 3 to 11? Do they like being
creative and letting their imagination flow?
Bring them along to our free arts and craft sessions
to draw, paint and make.
Children under 8 must be with an adult.
When: Every Tuesday, 3.30pm-5.30pm
Where: Clayton Sure Start Children’s Centre,
The Wells Centre, 101 North Road, Clayton, M11 4NE
safe & sound
for bigger kids & teens
Aged 11 to 18 and live near Clayton?
Head along to Clayton’s Youth Club - there’s
loads going on in a fun and safe environment.
• Meet new people & make friends
• Learn new skills & try new activities
Film
making
Photography
Sport
When: Every Tuesday, 6pm-8pm
Arts &
Crafts
Rap lyric
writing
Where: The Scout Hut, Seymour Road South,
Clayton, M11 4PS
Play, paint
& make
Meet
other
children
Earn
a bronze,
silver or gold
award
Take home
their
creations
To find out more,
call Michelle on
07940 758168 or email
michelle.wright
@onemanchester.co.uk
0330 355 1002 79
COMMUNITY
Investing in our
communities
Over the
This year, we are pleased to announce that we have published
our first ever social accounts, which show the benefits we have
brought to our communities.
This covers everything from our role in increasing employment
and supporting community projects, to promoting environmental
causes locally.
View the full social accounts online from the end of September at
www.onemanchester.co.uk/social-accounts
We have
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@onemcr
COMMUNITY
last 12 months, we have made lots of things happen...
We awarded
£200,000
in community grants
& investments
£30,000
of which came from our suppliers
We helped
more than
50
community
organisations
We provided
employment support
388 one-to-one sessions
213 people supported into
full-time work
134 people attended our
training courses
95 work placements completed
We organised
56
community
events
bringing 3,208 people together
also made sure we supported local businesses...
We understand the best way to support the local
economy is to build partnerships with local businesses.
We held
10 networking
events
189 businesses
attended
We ran
23 skills
workshops
95 people
attended
We offered
one-to-one support for
89 businesses
or potential businesses
We spent
75% of our
£36million
annual spend
with suppliers based
in Greater Manchester
Our goal is to improve these
social outcomes, so this year’s
social accounts are just the start.
We will keep you updated on
community events and other social
activities. Look out for details in
future issues of Inspire and
on our website.
0330 355 1002 711
TRAVEL
Make getting around easier
More than 5.6 million journeys are made across Greater Manchester’s transport network every
day. Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is responsible for keeping the city moving. They aim
to make travel easier by letting the public know about the transport options available to them.
What’s on offer?
1 Subsidised fares to help older people, children
and disabled people get around.
• The National Concessionary Travel pass is available for those
who qualify for a state pension. This offers free bus journeys in
England and on Greater Manchester’s trams and trains.
• For women born between 6 October 1953 and 5
November 1954, the Women’s Concessionary Travel pass is
available. It offers free travel on public transport in the region
(after 9.30am weekdays and at weekends).
• If you are disabled, you could be eligible for low-cost or free
travel across England.
• Children aged 5 to 16 can apply for an igo pass which allows
them to travel at concessionary fare. There is free travel for
those under five, and a free pass for those under 16 who have
to travel more than three miles to school.
2 TfGM offers support to apprentices and
jobseekers, with public transport passes or
a free bike to help with the commute.
• Apprentices can apply for a free 28-day travel pass
which can be used on bus and tram services.
• For jobseekers there are two offers: a free one-day bus
pass for job interviews. After gaining employment, a free 28-
day travel pass is available and valid on bus and tram services.
Extra discounted travel is available for 12 weeks afterwards.
• Apprentices or jobseekers who have found employment
could get a free refurbished bike and safety equipment to
help them on their way to work.
3 There are lots of FREE cycle training sessions
available to everyone; from taking the first step,
to learning the skills of riding in traffic.
Cycling is a low-cost and practical way of getting to work,
especially where shift-working or location makes using public
transport difficult. Plus, TfGM’s cycling maintenance courses
will also help keep your bike in top condition.
4 For residents in areas where public transport
services are limited, Local Link offers a flexible
transport service for local journeys.
By using shared minibuses, Local Link gets customers from
and to anywhere within each local service area.
5 Walking is a great way to get around Greater
Manchester. It’s free, improves your physical
health and mental wellbeing.
A 25-minute walk every day can add up to seven years to
your life! To encourage walking, TfGM host many events
throughout the year such as the Walking
Festival and Walking Week.
To find out more about any
of the information listed,
visit www.tfgm.com
or call 0161 244 1000
for advice.
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Can you hear me from up here?
SPOTLIGHT
A project involving residents living in our tower blocks and the Royal Exchange Theatre has
shone a spotlight on individuals and communities at risk of social isolation.
The work has resulted in a unique performance, and its
premier at the Royal Exchange Theatre in July caught
the attention of the BBC and ITV.
Residents of Hopton Court and Meredith Court performed
a thought-provoking stage performance called ‘Can You Hear
Me from up Here?’, which showcased their creative talents
in a 40-minute show. The theatre performance was the result
of a three-year project called ‘On Top of the World’, which was
developed as a way for tenants to talk about their experiences
of living in tower blocks.
We were delighted to host the cast of the show for a oneoff
performance at our office in Hulme. This gave staff the
opportunity to hear about the thoughts and challenges of
living alone in a tower block.
Over 200 One Manchester residents have been directly
involved in the project so far, and it is expected to impact
many more people in the local community.
Speaking about the project, our Chief Executive Dave Power,
said:
“This performance gives our residents a voice and an
opportunity to express themselves. Not only is it incredibly
brave of them to put themselves in the spotlight and discuss
matters close to their heart, but it allows us to digest everything
our residents are saying.
“Our role is much more than just a landlord. We are always
looking to build partnerships across the city and region
that can tackle problems in a unique and creative way. The
partnership with the Royal Exchange Theatre has done just that
and we’re especially grateful to them for their expertise and
sensitive approach towards our residents.
“The outcome demonstrates that the arts are inclusive and not
exclusive. It’s a brilliant way to bring everyone together and
share something very special.”
Tracie Daly, Royal Exchange Community Programme Leader,
commented:
“Over the years I’ve come to know the residents well. I have
seen them become more confident, independent and active.
I’ve watched friendships grow and people become more selfassured.
Residents who wouldn’t have dreamt of getting up
in front of others to act out a dramatic scene have thrilled and
surprised me. What were once just housing blocks now feel
like communities that grow in confidence each day.”
To find out more about this wonderful
project, email culture@onemanchester.co.uk
0330 355 1002 13
7
PEOPLE
Inspired to share her own story
In our last magazine we shared the story of Helen, who has been brightening
up Will Griffiths Court by running art classes for fellow residents.
Rosetta Ceesay, a resident of Patrick Roddy Court, was
inspired to share her own story with us after reading
about Helen’s interesting life.
“When we got the magazine delivered, the first thing I noticed
was the painting on the front cover. It was impressive to see the
skills that Helen was sharing with the residents at the scheme in
Moss Side.
“I’m an artist too, you see, and some of my own paintings are
up on the walls of the sheltered schemes across Manchester.
In my life I’ve worked as an art therapist for many years
working with terminally ill children, as well as in Africa.”
Rosetta’s life around the world has been the basis of her
creative talents:
“I’ve done a lot of travelling throughout my life. Whilst
living in Australia, I had a gallery where I would paint using
aboriginal styles. When I moved back to the UK, I ran
art galleries over here that exhibited work of African
descent which is my interest.
“I ran that gallery for a number of years, but after an accident
that meant I could no longer cope with going up four flights
of stairs, I had to find somewhere else to live. That’s how
I ended up in Patrick Roddy Court.”
Rosetta has spent part of her life working in Gambia, Africa.
Whilst setting-up a children’s charity in the village of Batti in
2003, she met her husband. Being based in Gambia meant
she could share her artistic skills with the community.
“When I went to Batti I wanted to pass on my love of crochet
and knitting with some of the younger people. I thought,
‘if I can get some of the young girls interested in this then
maybe they can make a bit of money doing it’.
“They worked on crocheting blankets for some of the older
members of the community to rest on. The girls that I taught
are now teaching others in the village. Last time I was there
we had 23 people all coming together to knit hats and earn
some money from their products.”
Since returning to England, Rosetta hasn’t lost her connection
with the African country:
“People who’ve heard about my projects over there have
been very kind to donate big bags of yarn that the people
can use. Next time I go there at Christmas I want to go into
one of the local schools and help to teach the young people
English and art skills. We’ve also got gardening projects setup
too, and we’ve planted 210 trees to try and help the soil
erosion problem.
“My father-in-law lives in Batti and is 105 years old. He is
incredibly active and an inspiration to me. If I can get people
motivated to keep doing the things they get enjoyment from
by volunteering and helping in the community, then for me
that is life.”
If you would like to share
your inspirational story
you can email it to
inspire@onemanchester.co.uk
14
@onemcr
Are you a parent or carer
of children under 18?
Complete our
simple survey
& you could
WIN £25
EVENT
Have you ever
thought of trying a
work placement?
One
Manchester
work
placement
George
We understand that the cost of childcare is often an
issue when you are looking for a job, particularly
during the school holidays. The results of our survey
will be used to make recommendations for how
One Manchester can help people find and use
childcare services in the future.
We are particularly looking for the following groups to
take part:
• Larger families with three or more
children
• Families with a child or children aged
10-17
• Single parent and carer families
• Families who get free school meals
To say thank you for completing
our quick five-minute survey,
you will be entered into a draw
to win a £25 ASDA voucher.
Simply fill in the survey online at
www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/OMchildcare
One Manchester work placement Yusuuf
If you’re looking for a job, you’ll find a
work placement is the perfect starting point.
Come along to our information sessions:
Every Wednesday at 10.30am
One Manchester, Hyde Road (side of Tesco),
Gorton, M18 8LD
Our supported work placements include:
Admin
Hospitality
Health & Social Care
Finance
IT
Why do a work
placement?
Construction
Facilities
Customer Service
Project Assistant
Warehousing
Boost your skills and confidence
Gain up-to-date experience
Achieve a qualification
Receive a reference on completion
Support to help you find work
Call
Lorraine now on
0161
230 1057
to reserve your place
at the next open
day.
0330 355 1002 15
7
MONEY
A helping hand with money and debts
We all have to deal with money issues at some point in our lives. Did you know that our
One Money team are trained debt and money advisers who can help?
We asked Rebecca from the One Money team to tell us more.
What can the One Money team help with?
“We can give advice on debts, benefits and budgeting. Our
advisers talk tenants through a range of debt solutions to find the
best one to suit their personal situation. We advise on the benefits
clients may be entitled to, can help them apply for benefits and
with appeals if they are refused. We also help with budgeting; so
will look at what money is coming in and going out and the best
way to manage it.”
Is an appointment needed?
“We advise people to call the office and make an appointment.
This way we can give a suitable appointment to deal with
their query thoroughly. We will always try to offer a tenant an
appointment at a venue closest to them.”
What information do you ask for?
“We only ask for information related to the enquiry.
This is usually your name, address, date of birth,
contact details, income and outgoings, and any
disabilities or health conditions. Sometimes we will
need to complete an income and outgoings form;
especially when dealing with debts.”
Do you share this information with
anyone?
“All client information is kept private and confidential.
We will only ever share personal information with
agencies that the client has agreed to, and we will
always ask before doing so. These agencies will be
relevant to the client’s situation and we would not
share details with anyone else.”
What are the most common queries?
“We have a lot of questions about benefit claims and
problems, rent arrears and Council Tax arrears, and all
kinds of debt problems. We can help with all of these
as well as energy and money saving tips.”
How can tenants
contact the team?
“You can contact the team by ringing our
contact centre and asking to speak to a
member of the One Money team. If they are
not put through first time, we will be notified
and will call back as soon as possible.
The team have an email address,
onemoney@onemanchester.co.uk
and also run drop-in sessions.”
16
@onemcr
MONEY
don’t get stung
by benefit changes
Can you recommend any websites
for money and debt advice?
“Yes, visit the One Money section on our website:
www.onemanchester.co.uk/supportopportunities/money-benefits-advice
Here you can find plenty of useful tips and
information. There are also links to other websites
for more information and advice.”
Universal Credit Full Service has
rolled out across Manchester.
If you have a change in circumstance and
receive a benefit that Universal Credit is
replacing, you will probably have to make
a claim for Universal Credit online. There are
lots of places you can use a computer or get help
to make your online claim, such as your local Jobcentre, library
or community outreach venue. Our website shows you where
you can go. Search for ‘Universal Credit how to apply’, then
expand the page to see a map showing the places that you can
use a computer for free. There is also lots of extra information
about Universal Credit on our website.
Council Tax Support
Please remember, Council Tax Support is not included in
Universal Credit. You will need to apply for this separately
with Manchester City Council.
Appointments & drop-ins *
Anson Community Grocer
38 Meldon Road, Rusholme, M13 0TR
Monday, 9:30am-12.30pm
Gorton Library
Garratt Way, Gorton, M18 8HE
Monday, 10am-1pm & 2pm-4pm
Newbank & Coverdale Community Grocer
Cornbrook House, 217 Stockport Road, Ardwick, M12 4DY
Thursday, 9.30am–12.30pm
The Wells Centre
101 North Road, Clayton, M11 4NE
Tuesday, 10am-12.30pm
Gorton Community Grocer
Gorton Community Centre,
543 Abbey Hey Lane, Gorton, M18 8PF
Friday, 9.30am–12pm
Aquarius Centre (appointment only)
21 Eden Close, Hulme, M15 6AX
Monday to Friday, 10.30am-2.30pm
How to make a claim
When you make your claim for Universal Credit, you will need
your rent charge and your landlord’s details. Any One Manchester
tenants can confirm these details by contacting the Income team.
After making your claim, it’s important to let us know so we can
update your account and discuss arrangements for any relevant
support.
The One Money and Income teams can offer
appointments at lots of locations across the city.
Call 0330 355 1002 or email:
Income team (rent enquiries):
incometeam@onemanchester.co.uk
One Money team (money, debt and benefits advice):
onemoney@onemanchester.co.uk
*Subject to change
0330 355 1002 17
7
ADVICE
Manage your account online
Visit onemanchester.co.uk for a range of services designed
to make managing your tenancy online easier.
Register today to make the most of our
online services including making payments,
booking repairs and your account settings
Register
Simply register your email address and create
a password. In order to create an account,
make sure you’ve got your National Insurance
Number and tenancy number handy. Your
tenancy number can be found on your rent
statement or by calling 0330 355 1002.
You can now
book repair
appointments
online
18
@onemcr
Make a payment
To make a payment, select the address
you would like to make a payment to,
enter the amount and click confirm.
You will then be directed to One
Manchester’s payment partner for
further details.
Don’t worry,
our payments
are secure
Book a repair
Click on ‘Book a repair’, give a reason
for the request and any other details.
Once you’ve submitted the information,
you’ll be given a selection of time slots
to choose from - it’s that easy! We’ll even
text you confirming your appointment.
Please note: You won’t be able to book
emergency appointments online.
You’ll need to call our Contact Centre.
Your account settings
Click on ‘My Account’ to view your recent
payments, your current balance and all the
latest news and events in your area.
You can also choose the topics you want us to contact
you about. Keeping your details up to date allows us to
send information that is relevant to you.
Money
help & tips
Employment
help
Vist our website today for
more of our online services
www.onemanchester.co.uk
Talk to us
Help finding
a home
0330 355 1002 19
7
ADVICE
Safe as houses
During the warmer months, keeping your property as safe and secure as possible
can sometimes take a back seat. Greater Manchester Police has some advice:
1 Don’t leave keys on view - letterboxes and cat-flaps can make them easy to reach.
2 Window locks that pull the window into the frame with a key are usually stronger.
3 Keep the door key with you or at the side of your bed.
4 Check your insurance policy to see the level of security required on your home.
5 If sat outside on a warm day, lock any doors or windows that are out of view.
6 Don’t rely on a dog to protect your house - having a pet should
not stop you investing in a burglar alarm.
7 Consider joining a Home Watch group.
8 Always close, but don’t lock, internal doors at night.
They hold fire at bay and give you valuable time
in the event of a fire.
9 Keep your keys close to make sure you’re
not delayed in an emergency, and
fit a smoke alarm to give an
early fire warning.
Good security
is designed to stop
burglars getting
in, not people
getting out.
Having repair work done?
So that our repairs operatives carry out their
work in a safe and secure environment,
we ask that you follow these requirements.
If you’re not at home for a pre-arranged
appointment, you may be charged a missed
appointment fee.
You must be in your home for your allocated
appointment slot.
Do not leave your home whilst the operative is there.
We will knock on your door or ring the doorbell so
please make sure you have no loud noises such as
music or TVs playing.
We will not enter your property if anyone under the age
of 16 is there alone or unsupervised.
Pets must be secured so that operatives can carry out
the work in safety.
Repairs could take several days so you must be
available for multiple appointments if necessary.
No smoking whilst the operative is at the property.
For gas-related work
• Make sure the appliance(s) and gas
meter can be reached easily
• If you have a card meter there needs
to be credit on it for the repair to be
carried out
• You will need the manufacturer’s
instructions for any of your own gas
appliances e.g. gas fire, cooker
20
@onemcr
ADVICE
Think before
you FLUsh!
If water doesn’t drain easily or pipes
are beginning to smell, you might
need to think about what you’re
flushing down them.
Cleaning drains and sewers is not a pleasant task,
and the cause of many blockages are often
familiar items that don’t belong down there.
The main culprits include:
• Wet wipes
• Cotton wool
• Nappies
• Cotton buds
• Sanitary towels
• Fat
Not only are these things bad for your property’s
pipe work, but they’re a massive problem for
the environment.
As these items don’t dissolve, they begin to
gather together in the sewer causing a backlog.
If this rubbish makes it through the sewer
network, then it’s our rivers and seas and all that
live in them that suffer.
By thinking about what your flush down the toilet
or pour down the sink, you will save on the cost
of repairs and be looking after the natural world.
For more information visit
www.unitedutilities.com
and search ‘Flush’.
If you are thinking
of leaving us...
When you end your tenancy, there are a few
things to remember to make it as smooth and
stress-free as possible.
Give us four weeks’ notice
We must receive four weeks’ notice in writing. If we don’t receive this
notice, you may be charged four weeks’ rent after leaving.
Leave it empty and in good condition
When you return your keys, the property needs to be completely
empty of furniture. This includes curtains, carpets and any other floor
coverings you have fitted, unless agreed with us. The garden must be
clean and tidy, and the bins should be empty.
If you leave any items in the property you will be charged
for their removal.
Put it back to standard
We need to make sure properties meet a certain standard, so all
alterations must be put back to how they were when you moved in
e.g. internal doors with glass panels need to be removed. To avoid
additional costs, follow these guidelines:
• Return all keys to the matching locks
at the property.
• Any items left in the property should be
agreed with us during your notice period.
• Remove all furniture, belongings, fixtures
and fittings before leaving the property,
unless agreed with us.
• Remove all floor coverings such as vinyl,
carpets and laminate, including all carpet
grippers, underlay and any associated
trim, unless agreed with us before you
leave.
• Fridges left in the property are charged
individually for removal because of the
rules on disposing of them.
You can contact Manchester City Council to arrange removal of
unwanted furniture. This should be arranged at least 14 days before
you vacate the property. Alternatively, you could donate these to charity.
Make sure you do a final check
Please thoroughly check your home before you return the keys as we
will dispose of anything you leave.
If you do not leave your home in good condition you will be
charged the cost to put it right.
0330 355 1002 721
VENTURE
Get your business off the ground
If you’re looking to start your own business, we can help you to develop business skills to
realise your dream of becoming your own boss.
We run lots of different free workshops so you know what to
prepare for. Our recent workshop at The Place on Platt Lane in
Fallowfield focused on market stall and online trading.
Running for eight weeks, attendees picked up the knowledge
and skills to run their market business successfully. At the end of
the course, participants could apply for a grant of up to £500
to help their business idea move forward.
Gala Mohamed had recently started her own cake-making
business, and found out about the workshop by reading
Inspire Magazine:
“I found out about the retail workshop just by chance. I had
received the magazine through my letterbox, and I looked
through it and found this course. Before this I was really
struggling to find a direction to take my business in. I spoke
to Wayne (our enterprise adviser) and he directed me to this
course.
“The business had really only started as a hobby. I was making
cakes for my kids’ parties and for family birthdays. I noticed that
there was a market for the cakes and so I decided to turn it into
a business.
“I wanted to find out about things like the legal requirements
for starting a business and the course was so useful. Before I
came here I had no idea where to go or what to do.
“The grant that I received at the end of the course was a huge
help to the business. It allowed me to buy the equipment I
needed and has really put me ahead of the competition.”
Helen Birch also attended the course and found it was a huge
help in her busy life:
“I have so many different projects on the go, and multitasking
means that I’ve never used a diary so much in my life. I have to
write a list of all my tasks. Having the time during the week to
come down to The Place allowed me to focus purely on my
business which was great.
“It was a very professional setting but still relaxed enough that
you could always ask any questions that you needed to. It gave
us loads of opportunities to consider different possibilities for
our business, and it was good fun.”
If you would like to find out
more about our business
workshops, phone Wayne on
0161 274 2150 or email
wayne.wilson@onemanchester.co.uk
22
@onemcr
Another year of supporting
small businesses
VENTURE
At our first ever Catalyst Fund earlier in the year, 10 worthy
local businesses were awarded a total of £40,000 of funding
and we’re doing it again!
The success of the Catalyst Fund gave
business owners the chance to present
their ideas and convince the judging
panel that they would make a positive
difference to the community.
By coming to the next event you can
find out more about funding and
ask questions to members of One
Manchester’s business team.
This year’s Catalyst Fund
will be launched:
Tuesday 2 October, 4pm to 7pm
at Z-arts, 335 Stretford Road,
Hulme, M15 5ZA
If you run a business locally and
would like to apply for funding
from One Manchester, visit
www.onemanchester.co.uk/
funding-support
Would you like to start your own retail business,
or have you already set-up?
Your business could follow in the footsteps of huge retailers like Marks
& Spencer, Tesco and Matalan, who all started life on a market stall.
We’re working with Prosper Associates to offer free training so you
can become a new market stall trader or trade online. There is also
a fantastic opportunity to access a small start-up grant too, based
on eligibility and completion of the whole programme. This training
workshop is for new retail businesses, or existing traders with no more
than 30 months in business.
What you will get
New Ad to be supplied by LC to go on this spread!
• Vital skills needed as a market or online retailer
• Real-life ideas and action points
• To learn the rules and regulations of running a business
• All equipment and materials provided
one youth one home one life one money
The training workshop will begin on
Monday 17 September at The Place at
Platt Lane, Fallowfield, M14 7FB
one
place
one future
Don’t miss out - book your place!
one venture
Call Wayne on 0161 274 2150 or email wayne.wilson@onemanchester.co.uk
0330 355 1002 23
7
Your quick guide to how well we did
April to June 2018
Below are the top 10 performance indicators selected as the most important by members
of our Scrutiny Panel, a group of customers and members of the wider community whose
role is to challenge us to be the best we can and to help us to continuously improve.
LAST YEAR TARGET APR - JUN 2018
Amount of rent we have collected so far this year
This includes payments made for rents as well as arrears, which is
why the result can sometimes be higher than 100%
99.33%
100.5% 101.20%
% of homes available to new tenants so far this year
A similar number of properties became vacant during this threemonth
period, which resulted in 110 new lettings compared with 118
the same time last year.
Average number of bids for each property
advertised on Manchester Move
Demand for our properties continues to increase and reflects the
need for more housing in the city.
Time to re-let properties once tenancy has ended
It took us a little longer to get our properties ready to relet during
this period due in part to the number of major works and internal
refurbishments that were needed.
0.98% 2.50% 1.03%
142 90 246
18.93 days 16.00 days 20.58 days
Calls answered within 20 seconds
A number of factors have led to slightly increased call times, as has
the replacement of several staff members.
64.20%
80% 59.20%
Number of formal stage 1 complaints received
The number of complaints received matches the equivalent point
last year. Each case is taken seriously and used to help us improve
our services.
8
Not
applicable 8
Emergency repairs completed within 24 hours
Steady improvements have been made, but results suggest targets are
not consistently being met. A review is underway to identify the specific
issues affecting 39 of 1,505 emergencies that reportedly missed target.
Repair appointments missed due to access
Too many repair appointments continue to be missed due to issues
gaining access to the property. However, this number continues to
fall as a result of various improvements to our processes.
Properties with a valid Gas Safety Certificate
Six of our 10,848 properties were without a valid Gas Safety
Certificate at the end of June due to access issues.
90.35% 100% 97.40%
14.33% 6.00% 9.20%
99.99% 100% 99.94%
Properties sold through Right to Buy or Acquire
We have sold a similar number of properties to the same point last
year and aim to build 1,000 new properties by 2020 - double the
original target.
26
Not
applicable
25
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