Glorious gardens! - matters - Wiltshire Council
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Autumn 2018
Keeping Wiltshire residents informed matters
Thumbs-up for
green-fingered
growers
New housing
nears
completion
Turn your
house into
your home
Glorious
gardens!
www.facebook.com/wiltshirecouncilhousing
Welcome to the Autumn issue of
Housing Matters, the magazine for all CONTENTS
Wiltshire Council tenants.
As always, this edition keeps you up to
3 Garden Competition
date with everything that’s happening 4 Undertaking a Mutual Exchange
in and around your communities. It’s 5 Big build memorial garden
packed with helpful advice, including
the best contacts to call on if you need 6 New Resident Engagement
team members
help or support.
6 Pop Up Engagement
In these pages you’ll find lots of
interesting stories about how residents 7 Digital Matters
have been working together to 8 GDPR consent
strengthen their neighbourhood spirit.
They include a group of youngsters
getting together to create a community
8
9
A day in the life of Jay Johnson
Puzzling?
Thumbs-up for green-fingered growers
garden; school children growing links 10 Community Matters
with a next-door sheltered housing
project by planting a tree; and lots of 11 Scaffolding
people meeting up for community 12 Tree planting/Team hits target 17 House Proud A huge thank you to everyone who Register your
celebrations, days-out and events. 13 New housing nears completion 18 Gas Safe entered our 2018 Garden Competition interest for the
There’s also plenty of advice for making 14 Repairs Matters 19
the most of your home. We feature
15 Royal visitors
How to pay rent 2019 competition
some great ways of making quick and 20 Waste and Recycling
inexpensive improvements; spotting 16 Volunteering update We had a wonderful time travelling around Wiltshire judging all by emailing
and fixing common faults; and how the inspirational entries. tenantparticipation@
to make a garden bloom even in the
smallest spaces.
Along the way, we’ll also introduce you
Next issue Useful numbers The judges found it extremely difficult to choose the winners,
but after much deliberation the prizes went to:
wiltshire.gov.uk
to new members of our housing team, Do you have any suggestions for any Housing Management,
dedicated to doing their best to bring future articles? Please send any articles Council House, 1st Mr Watts – Porton
the best possible service to your front or suggestions to: Bourne Hill,
door. 2nd Mr Jeffcoate – Donhead St Mary
Resident Engagement Team Salisbury, SP1 3UZ.
On that note, we’d like to take this Wiltshire Council, 3rd Mr and Mrs Mason – Bulford
chance to introduce our new housing Housing Management, General Housing
director, Simon Hendey. He has joined Bourne Hill, enquiries We have listened to your comments and hope to bring next
us in Wiltshire after working in a 0300 456 0117
similar role at Bracknell Forest Borough
Salisbury, year’s competition forward in the year so we see your beautiful
Wiltshire, SP1 3UZ. gardens in their full glory.
Council. Homes4Wiltshire
At the same time, we say a fond 0300 456 0117 option 5 0300 456 0104
farewell to our head of housing strategy tenantparticipation@wiltshire.gov.uk We’ll also add a few new categories to encourage more
and assets, Janet OBrien, who moves on
Customer services gardeners to join in.
to pastures new. She will be missed by
Deadline for next edition: 0300 456 0100
the housing team and her many friends 2 November 2018 Mr Watts from Porton had spectacular
floral displays
across the council and the county.
Enjoy it all, and if there’s anything we Estate inspection dates for 2018
can do to help, or any issues you want
to share, do get in touch. 26 October: Bemerton Heath
We’re here to help. 23 November: Trowbridge
14 December: Salisbury City centre
Find us on Facebook
Simon Hendey, It wasn’t just flowers but the great selection
director of housing
and commercial
We share lots of information on our Wiltshire Council Housing Mr Jeffcoate’s pretty borders wowed judges of vegetables that stood out
development Facebook page. It lists upcoming events and allows you to
post comments, questions and thoughts – as well as get involved in
discussions with fellow tenants.
Richard Clewer,
cabinet member Hear what is happening with your housing service and find helpful
for housing advice, all from the comfort of your own home.
www.facebook.com/wiltshirecouncilhousing
Printed on paper containing 75% post consumer waste. We try to ensure that the information contained in the publication is accurate at the time of going to press and while Mr & Mrs Mason made great use of the available space by using different
every effort has been made to ensure accuracy Wiltshire Council cannot guarantee it and does not accept any liability for any error or omission.
sections. At the front, a colourful display of pots and planters
2 Autumn 2018 | Housing Matters Housing Matters | Autumn 2018 3
The how, why and when of
house swapping
If your property doesn’t match your family’s needs you might be able to
swap with another council or housing association tenant.
This is called a mutual exchange.
To complete a mutual exchange you need written permission from landlords of
both properties. Without that, the tenancy won’t be legal and the landlord can
take action to repossess the property.
How do I find a suitable property?
• Register on Home Swapper
• Place an advert in a newsagent
• Post a request on the Wiltshire Council Housing Facebook page
Contacts opposite
Six steps to a mutual exchange
1. Find a swap
“I’m sure it will
Useful links
2. Ask landlord – for example Wiltshire Council - for permission to grow to be a real asset
exchange Home Swapper
3. Landlord accepts application to Gainsborough Close
4. Your property is visited to check condition. You must also check the www.homeswapper.co.uk
condition of the home you are moving to. The mutual exchange means and the whole of
you accept the property as it is House Exchange
5. Attend an appointment with other parties to sign tenancy exchange. the Heath.”
This forms your new tenancy agreement. It is known as a deed of www.houseexchange.org.
assignment uk/advice/mutual-exchange/
6. You are given a date for the mutual exchange to complete what-is-a-mutual-exchange-
Reasons for refusal to the mutual exchange request
home-swap
Heath blossoms as youngsters
A landlord might turn down your swap request if you can’t keep to the terms of Wiltshire Council Housing
your tenancy agreement or the new property is too big or small for your needs. Facebook page
How does Wiltshire Council help?
www.facebook.com/
The council does the paperwork and arranges inspections so that the new
tenants of each property know about any non-standard fixtures and fittings.
That might include extra light fittings, carpets or laminate floors.
wiltshirecouncilhousing
plot garden project
The council does not accept responsibility for those. We have our own standard
fittings for lights, wall tiles, taps, doors etc. Bemerton Heath youngsters are £7,000 has already been raised for the Bemerton Heath famous for its
making their estate a better place to three-year project. creativity, community spirit and the way
We also ensure gas and electric safety checks are carried out. live by creating a community garden. its young people lead positive change.
Gary Lamont, who runs a social
They are developing a plot in enterprise called Foragers’ Farm, has Robin Imeson from the youth charity
Gainsborough Close to improve the been recruited to get the garden off the Rise:61, which is working on the
look and feel of the area and to provide ground. It will be managed by residents, project, said: “We’re so proud to see the
a place for residents to meet - especially including youngsters. community garden become a reality.
for those who don’t have gardens of
their own. The garden is part of a scheme to “It’s a fabulous example of what we can
regenerate the land around the achieve as residents along with local
The project has been developed by the Compound games area. Wiltshire councils, charities and businesses.
Bemerton Heath Inter-Agency Group Council have spent around £30,000
with backing from Wiltshire Council and resurfacing the playing area and raised “I’m sure it will grow to be a real asset
Salisbury City Council. an extra £4,000 for a roof net that to Gainsborough Close and the whole
residents have asked for. of the Heath.”
The Burns Price Foundation, Tesco and
Radian Housing have given money, and It is all part of the vision to make
4 Autumn 2018 | Housing Matters 5 Housing
Housing Matters | Autumn
Matters 2018
winter 2015 5
Vicki and Rob join the team
We welcome Rob Hesketh and Vicki
Digital matters
Archer to our resident engagement Contacting the council online
team as new resident engagement
officers. Going online is the easiest way to contact us and iHousing portal
Rob previously worked in our
find information. Available to all council tenants.
responsive repairs team and Vicki You don’t have to visit an office or phone, and you The iHousing portal is a secure service where you can
comes from our neighbourhood view your rent account balance and statements, make
can connect 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
management team. payments, report repairs and track their progress.
They join engagement officers Eamon We offer these digital services… We also offer an email and SMS service to access your rent
McClelland and Zoe Young and senior account balance at any time.
engagement officer Kate Darbyshire in Website Register through the website or email
the team.
This is always the first place to find information or to access hsgmail@wiltshire.gov.uk
It’s part of our job as a social housing our services.
https://ihousing.wiltshire.gov.uk
landlord to hear what tenants and
It’s quick and easy.
leaseholders think of our services. Housing Facebook page
You can
Officers like Rob and Vicki are there to This is the place for tenants to stay in touch with the
listen to you as they get out and about • request and pay for most services housing team.
in our communities. They host events • report problems such as noise pollution or fraud
and build relationships with residents, • see local news and events You can post comments and questions and get involved in
charities and other community groups. • check planning applications discussions with fellow tenants.
• follow progress on roadworks and traffic delays Hear what is happening with your housing service, with
If you would like to get more involved
in the community, or find out how www.wiltshire.gov.uk regular updates and advice on looking after your home,
you can help improve the service events in your community and services the council offers.
we offer, please call the team on My Wiltshire App Like and follow us at www.facebook.com/
0300 456 0117 – option 5 or email Use the app to tell us now about issues affecting you, your WiltshireCouncilHousing
tenantparticipation@wiltshire.gov.uk family or your neighbours. They include:
Twitter
• potholes
• graffiti The official council Twitter feed tweets Monday to Friday,
• litter 9am-5pm. The team are always ready to answer questions
• flooding and tweet advice and community news.
• trading standards @wiltscouncil
• changes in circumstances that could affect your benefit
• bin collections YouTube
If you register when you report an incident you will get replies Our official YouTube page hosts videos from councillors and
for your enquires. the community.
You can also report without sharing your name. Follow us at www.youtube.com/user/wiltshirecouncil
The app is available on the council website and can be We are always looking to expand our online service to make
We’re popping by to say hello downloaded free to your Apple, Android or Windows devices.
www.wiltshire.gov.uk/mywiltshire-online-reporting
sure you get the best access to your council. However you
will still always be able to phone us, send us a letter or visit
one of our offices.
Wiltshire Council’s Resident individuals and inspiring community happened unless they had popped up
Engagement officers are popping members. outside the shop.”
up where you live.
We’re asking questions to better “It’s a great idea. I’d encourage other
We are dropping by the kinds of understand common concerns. people to say hello when they’re
places where people gather, to chat around and to share their ideas.”
We’re learning with you how your
with our residents in an informal
communities can be better. Our aim is to connect, inspire and
setting.
bring people together to take action
You’ve taught us a lot so far.
We’re chatting to you in your street, on their common concerns and help
by your shop, on your green, at the One of our residents, Alana, said: us shape the work we do.
bus stop. “It was by chance that I met Zoe
We believe the pop-up project can
and another member of the resident
We’re genuinely listening so we can strengthen relationships between
engagement team outside our local
understand the community where you live. people, communities, and Housing.
shop. They explained who they were
Great things come from small
No surveys, no clipboards. Just and we had a chat about where I live.”
beginnings.
genuine and honest conversations.
“I got to discuss things I have had in
We hope you’ll take part.
We’ve been listening to motivated mind for a while. It would not have
6 Autumn 2018 | Housing Matters Housing Matters | Autumn 2018 7
Opt in for online information
We recently emailed asking for your permission
to continue sending information about events
Send the word “Opt”
and training provided by Wiltshire Council
to 07860 035349
Housing.
If we hold your email address or mobile
number and you wish to continue receiving
this information please either:
• email hsgenquiries@wiltshire.gov.uk with
the subject line – OPT
or
• SMS 07860 035349 with the word – OPT
Messages will be charged at your standard
message rate or included in your monthly text
allowance.
If we don’t receive your consent you will no
longer receive information for training and
events. This will not affect communications
about your tenancy.
Once given, consent may be withdrawn at any
A confirmation text will be sent back to confirm your consent time by contacting Wiltshire Council Housing
(if we don’t hold your mobile number then a rejection or emailing hsgenquiries@wiltshire.gov.uk with
message will be returned to you)
the subject line – REMOVE, or with an SMS
message to 07860 035349 with the word –
For our full privacy notice see http://wiltshire.gov.uk/housing-privacy REMOVE.
A day in the life of...
Jay Johnson Crossword - Garden Flora
Across Down
2. Well-dressed big cat (9) 1. Lil dislikes hills (4,2,3,6)
Your role title? What do you enjoy when 3. One in the eye (4) 2. Colourful Welsh symbol (8)
Contracts finance and support officer, you’re not working? 4. Film ladies in relaxing herb (8) 5. Fire remains (3)
Planned Maintenance. Having crazy fun with my two young 9. Male cow in a hurry (8) 6. Sounds dozy in a chain (5)
sons. Listening to and discovering new 10. Always remember me (6,2,3) 7. The dark older one (5, 5)
How does your day normally
music, books, films, creative writing,
start? 13. Mollusc’s fizzy pear drink (10) 8. Sounds like it’s got jeebies (4)
living the rollercoaster of supporting
Tottenham Hotspur. 15. Yellow spread for tea (9) 11. Nearly a sandy shore (5)
At our Churchfields offices in Salisbury
with a coffee! 16. Go for this symbol in Wales (4) 12. Not a flower from Japan (8,8)
What is the one thing people
17. French ’the‘ after map (5) 13. Proper got up (8)
What are the most challenging would be surprised to know
18. Honey for Bill (5,7) 14. Van Gogh’s oil maker (9)
and most rewarding aspects of about you?
21. Got up (4) 19. Sit alone like one (10)
your role? I’m a qualified graphic designer and
22. Wallow nearly makes bat (6) 20. Wimbledon server in one (4)
Juggling workloads and meeting worked as one until I decided it wasn’t
for me. Although there are helicopters 23. Sad ringer (8) 24. Untruth missing (5)
expectations are the biggest challenges.
Being able to help others around me is out there flying around with my logo on 26. Short growl for mule (5) 25. Dutch gave it a disease (3)
the most rewarding. them that I designed. 27. Crimson fiery prodder (3,3,5)
What is the best part of your 28. Four on this is lucky (6)
29. Like sugary tiny veg (5,3) Compiled by P.Wilkins,
job? Council Tenant
The people in all of the housing teams
around me make it a pleasure to come
to work each day. Crossword answers on page 11
8 Autumn 2018 | Housing Matters Housing Matters | Autumn 2018 9
Community
Matters
Birthday buffet
The Rosemary Goddard
Centre held a 30-year
celebration at Lynch Close
in Mere. A packed hall
The flower beds ap
peared following
a hard day’s was entertained by guest
work at Nadder Cl
ose speakers Dr Andrew Murrison
MP and Pippa Webster
from Age UK, as well as
Volunteers brush singing and dancing and
up on garden skills a buffet lunch with drinks.
Volunteer gardeners from Ian Williams More than 80 guests were
ably served refreshments g 30 years of
contractors visited Nadder Close sheltered The cake celebratin
by young volunteers from dard Centre
housing and they meant business! Rakes, hoes, the Rosemary God
brushes, spades and shovels were unloaded Seeds4Success. Seating was
at 9am and not put back until 4pm. The provided inside and out,
dandelions, thistles, grass and bindweed stood and the fine weather encouraged al fresco dining and
conversation under the shade of gazebos. The star of the
Scaffold safety vital for workers
no chance. A skip was loaded with old garden
and household items as well as the weeds and show was the beautiful cake which was decorated by
rubbish from paths and car park. Residents were residents who use the centre.
and public
delighted with a beautiful, freshly-prepared
buffet lunch prepared by Ian Williams staff and
a chance to chat and discuss the issues of the Friends stay busy
day. Wiltshire Council’s resident engagement The Bemerton Friendship Group
team helped out and warmly thanked all those organised a spa day. They also We use a lot of scaffolding in our maintenance and not incur extra costs while it is in place, unless there is a
contributing to the improvement efforts. enjoyed a lunch trip to the New repair work. significant delay in the works caused by the council.
Forest Lavender Farm. The It is erected for us by scaffolding contractors. Once we have asked the scaffolding company to remove it
Royal revels group browsed the exotic plants The scaffolding is erected according to strict health and
we do not pay any more, how ever long it is in place.
and took in the lavender beds safety guidelines and is monitored weekly to ensure that it Scaffolding is vital for the safety of our operatives working
Donhead St Mary residents enjoyed a street Residents from th
e Bemerton
before retiring to the shade is safe for our operatives and our contractors. at height.
party on the weekend of the Royal wedding. Friendship Group
for tea and cake. In another and
Organiser Rose and the other villagers raised Resident Engagem The larger, complex scaffolding that is erected around our It is essential that it is not played with or adjusted in any
expedition they went for a walk ent’s Kate
over £300 for charities close to their hearts. on a trip they arra blocks is also inspected by an external health and safety way by anyone other than the scaffolding company that
nged to the
in the New Forest in glorious Lavender Farm consultant through our contractors to ensure that it is safe erected it.
sunshine before for everyone, including the public.
It is not a children’s playground. Serious injuries or death
retreating for a pub It isn’t always possible to have scaffolding erected the can and have occurred in the past.
lunch when rain day before works start. Sometimes we have scaffolding in
threatened. The If you see someone who shouldn’t be on the scaffolding,
place without anyone working on it.
please ask them to get off.
group is open to
Once we have finished using it we ask that it is removed
everyone and meets If they cannot prove who they are and have no reason to
as soon as possible. That isn’t always possible, which also
at the Bemerton be on the scaffold and will not come down then please
means that it can be in place without anyone using it.
Heath Centre. phone the police.
We pay a one-off fee for the scaffolding we hire, so we do
Bemerton Crossword answers (Page 9)
from the
Resident Re sid en ts d Salisbury y Across: 2. Dandelion, 3. Iris, 4. Lavender, 9. Bullrush, 10. Forget-Me-Not, 13. Periwinkle, 15. Buttercup, 16. Leek, 17. Maple,
sa
enjoying t Donhead St M d ship Group an ip the
a ary F rie n
awn on a tr 18. Sweet, William, 21. Rose, 22. Willow, 23. Bluebell, 26. Grass, 27. Red Hot Poker, 28. Clover, 29. Sweet Pea
for the R Street Party they ncil’s D
City Cou ender Farm Down: 1. Lily Of The Valley, 2. Daffodil, 5. Ash, 6. Daisy, 7. Black Elder, 8. Hebe, 11. Beech, 12. Japanese Knotweed, 13. Primrose,
oyal Wed
ding
organise
d rra ng ed to the Lav 14. Sunflower, 19. Wallflower, 20. Acer, 24. Lilac, 25. Elm
a
10 Autumn 2018 | Housing Matters Housing Matters | Autumn 2018 11
Team hits
target to
take award Mere Cllr Richard Clewer, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for
housing with tenants and officers at the official opening.
Durrington
Residents have been able to move into six new bungalows
designed specifically to house older people in rural locations.
Wiltshire Council own and run the Graham Wright, Councilor for The innovative projects are both on
four bungalows in Durrington and Durrington and Larkhill who promoted former garage sites, Durrington was
two bungalows in Mere, which the Durrington project said: “I am developed by RJ McKelvey and Mere by
help residents remain within their very pleased to see the end result, it Rigg Construction, for Wiltshire Council.
local community, have a home is a huge improvement to the area
that is energy efficient and cost and Durrington’’, whilst George Jeans, The projects are part of Wiltshire
effective to run, and have suitable Wiltshire Councilor for Mere, said: “I am Council’s £30.5million housing
accommodation to meet their needs pleased the council is once again able to development programme, which will
as they become older. build council houses. Every home built create 180 new affordable homes built in
Tree planting ceremony makes life a little easier for someone.” Wiltshire by 2022.
The bungalows have recently officially
been opened by Cllr Richard Clewer, Tony Moore who moved into one of The council is working with local
creates community link Wiltshire Council cabinet member for the Durrington bungalows with his communities to create, own and run the
housing. partner Elizabeth Easton from a larger homes for families and older residents
Wiltshire Council’s housing assets three-bedroom house just around the across the county.
in Amesbury and new developments team won an
award for delivering on a pledge to
build 158 council homes.
Cllr Clewer said: “We have invested
in a major programme to create 180
affordable homes in Wiltshire, which has
corner, quoted: “We were in a three-
bedroom semi-detached, and it was
difficult to get up and down the stairs.
These projects will mean there will be
approximately 5,470 affordable homes,
already delivered a number of housing which include shared ownership,
Children from an Amesbury primary Cllr Clewer said: “The quality and the This bungalow has been a godsend to affordable rent and social rent which
They did it on time and under budget. opportunities across the county. The us health wise.” Neighbour Christine
school planted a tree in the grounds finish of these flats is really impressive are owned and managed by the council
developments are an excellent example Phelps, who had previously lived in a
of a new housing development and I’m certain that these homes will Team members were honoured at for young people, families and mature
of meeting a need for older residents first floor flat nearby, said: “I used to
which they named after winning a prove hugely popular with residents. the council’s Achieving Excellence residents across the county. In total the
who want to stay in rural communities have to go up steep stairs to my flat,
competition. Awards ceremony held at County Hall, county has more than 30,000 affordable
“It is a central part of our strategy and have independence, while having a which was difficult. This bungalow is
Trowbridge. home which will continue to meet their homes.
The youngsters from Amesbury that we encourage and help our fantastic. I’m absolutely thrilled with it
Archer’s Vespasia class visited older residents establish themselves in needs into the future. We are delighted and the fact I feel fitter now is due to
The council has never tackled a housing
Evergreen Court to plant the Red suitable housing that they can occupy to welcome the residents to their new living in my new home.”
expansion on this scale before, but we
Robin - an evergreen tree - helped by for as long as they need it.” homes. I’m sure they’ll be very happy’’
are thrilled that the vast majority of
representatives from the site developer, homes have now been finished to a
As well as one and two-bed
New housing nears completion in Trowbridge
Wiltshire Council and members of the wonderful quality with all targets met.
construction team. apartments, the development features
24 hr support response service, a We’re especially proud of the extra care
Richard Clewer, Wiltshire Council’s restaurant, laundry, activity rooms, schemes in Devizes and Amesbury,
cabinet member for housing, said: communal lounge, guest suite and Wiltshire Council has worked with
which set a new standard for housing
“It was highly appropriate that the gardens. contractor, Stepnell, to build homes to
vulnerable, elderly people in our
children came along to plant an a high standard, providing spacious,
community.
evergreen at Evergreen Court. The Swindon and Wiltshire Local well laid-out properties with plenty of
Enterprise Partnership secured an The brilliant execution of this storage. The town centre site is close to
“It is a great way to celebrate the increase to the amount the council can programme is due to the dedication amenities, bus stops, schools and shops.
lasting link between the school and borrow from central Government to of many individuals. Their devotion to
their new neighbours.” support the development of affordable The council has also secured funding
the task has shown itself with tireless
homes, of which £1.2m is being used to build 22 more affordable homes on
efforts to get new homes ready for their
The development has been specially to fund this scheme. council-owned land at the site.
delighted tenants.
designed for residents aged over 55
who want to live independently and Prospective residents must register with Further information about those homes
Our staff spent their own time at
have access to care if they need it. Homes 4 Wiltshire. will be available in 2019.
weekends and at nights vacuuming
carpets, cleaning, even getting their If you are interested in finding out
There are still some shared ownership For further information please email The council is nearing completion of 28 new homes at Southview, Trowbridge.
brushes out and touching up paintwork more about these homes or other new
and affordable rent homes available. laura.young@wiltshire.gov.uk
where required! Seventeen of the properties are available Homes will be available in autumn housing in Wiltshire please contact
for affordable rent, while 11 are for sale 2018 and reservations are already Victoria Smith on 01249 706556 or
through shared ownership. being taken. victoria.smith@wiltshire.gov.uk
12 Autumn 2018 | Housing Matters Housing Matters | Autumn 2018 13
Mould, damp and condensation
Damp, cold housing encourages the growth of mould on
walls and furniture, and can make window frames rot.
Repairs review
Causes of damp What is Paraffin and portable flue-less
bottled gas heaters put a lot of
• leaking pipes, wastes or overflows condensation? moisture into the air - one gallon
• rain seeping through the roof of gas or paraffin produces about
where a tile or slate is missing, Condensation is caused by moisture a gallon of water. If you have a
spilling from a blocked gutter, in the air turning into water droplets problem with condensation, try to
Photo by Kelvin Boyes
ill-fitting window frames, or leaks when it comes into contact with a find other means of heating.
through a cracked pipe cold surface.
Dry washing outdoors if you can.
• rising damp due to a faulty or There is always some moisture in the Or put it in the bathroom with the
missing damp course. These often air even if you cannot see it. door closed and the window open
/ Pres
leave a tidemark
If the air gets colder it cannot hold all or fan on. It is best to fit a fan that
• condensation
s Eye
the moisture and tiny drops of water can be switched to run continuously
for clothes drying. If you have a
Treating mould appear. This is condensation. You may
notice it when you see your breath on tumble dryer make sure you vent
1. First treat the mould already in a cold day, or when the mirror mists it to the outside unless it is self-
your home. If you deal with the over when you have a bath. condensing.
basic problem mould should not You can ventilate your home
Condensation occurs mainly during
reappear. without making draughts. Some
cold weather, whether it is raining
2. To kill and remove mould, wipe or dry. ventilation is needed to get rid
down walls and window frames of moisture being produced all
The most obvious sign of
welcomed The Prince of Wales and
with a fungicidal wash which the time, including from people’s
condensation is mist on windows
carries a Health and Safety breath. Keep a small window ajar or
but it can also form in corners, in or
Executive approval number. leave a trickle ventilator open all the
behind wardrobes and cupboards
3. Follow the manufacturer’s
instructions precisely. Dry-clean
where furniture is pushed against a
wall, such as beds or sofas. It often
time if possible, and especially when
someone is in the room. The Duchess of Cornwall
forms on north-facing walls. Wipe moisture off surfaces such as
mildewed clothes, and shampoo
windows every day.
carpets. Disturbing mould by
brushing or vacuuming can How to avoid Allow space for air to move in and
increase the risk of breathing
problems.
condensation around your furniture. Open doors
to cupboards and wardrobes. Leave
When cooking, cover pans and do space between wardrobes and
4. After treatment redecorate using not leave kettles boiling. walls. If you can, put wardrobes and
a good quality fungicidal paint to furniture against internal walls.
help prevent mould. This paint Close kitchen and bathroom doors
is not effective if it is covered when in use even if they have If you have taken all these
with ordinary paint or wallpaper. extractor fans. It will help stop precautions and still see mould,
When wallpapering, use a paste moisture reaching other rooms, contact the housing repairs team
containing fungicide to prevent especially bedrooms, which are on 0300 456 0117 – option 2 or
further mould. often colder and more likely to get email housingrepairs@wiltshire.
condensation. gov.uk
5. The only lasting way of avoiding
severe mould is to eliminate
dampness.
Repairs – frequently asked questions
Q: Who is responsible for fixing my garden fence that has blown down?
A: Fences between gardens are the responsibility of the tenants as per your tenancy agreement.
Crowds out in force for Royal couple
7 (ii) To keep in good order any garden allotted to the property, including fences and hedges. When Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall Their Royal Highnesses walked through the Maltings
If the garden was fenced when you took on the property then you would have accepted responsibility for the visited Salisbury Wiltshire Council’s resident and Market Square to a reception in the Guildhall,
maintenance of the fences and would have been told by your housing officer which sides you were responsible for. engagement team, tenants and community groups where they met people who had helped the recovery
If you are unsure which fences you are responsible for, contact your housing officer on 0300 456 0117 – Option 4. joined the welcome party. effort following the nerve agent incident in March.
The exception is if the fence borders a public right of way such as a road, footpath or car park. In these cases They were among a crowd of thousands who lined Large crowds gathered along the route, waving flags
Wiltshire Council may have a responsibility to maintain the fence. the streets as the Royal couple arrived to show their and cheering while the Royal Artillery Band played a
Contact the housing repairs team on 0300 456 0117 – option 2 and they can advise you. support for the community. rousing selection of tunes.
14 Autumn 2018 | Housing Matters Housing Matters | Autumn 2018 15
Volunteers step
up to serve their Turn your
community house into
People choose to volunteer for a
variety of reasons.
“I was successful and joined
a collection of people like
myself.”
your home
For some it offers the chance to give
something back to the community, That was his first taste of
or to make a difference to the people volunteering. But he was ready While updating your kitchen or refreshing your
around them. for more. decor can stamp your personality on your home,
One good reason why volunteering He said: “I was at the Expo 55+ Teresa, one of our tenant volunteers with a there are ways to get the most from your DIY.
is important is that it goes a long way event at City Hall and Anna, the chair member of the Resident Engagement team
As a nation, we’re very house proud. First, work out
towards creating a healthy community. of a new Challenge & Change group
diabetes or digestive disorders all show According to American Express, we exactly what
asked if I would like to join. I did and
With busy lives, it can be hard to find time improvement after volunteering. spend an average of £211 a year on you want to do.
have not looked back!
to volunteer. But the benefits are enormous home improvements. Check with your
for you, your family, and your community. “I now have many new friends Whether due to a disability, a lack of landlord to make sure that they are Once you’ve nailed the details, work out
and I understand far more how transport, or shortage of time, many Popular projects happy for you to do the work yourself – what you’ll need to do the work. This
The right match can help you to reduce Wiltshire Council Housing works in all people choose to volunteer via phone there may be rules about what you can will include the materials but also labour
Your projects don’t all have to happen
stress, find friends, reach out to the departments. or computer. We need help with online and can’t do. and time.
indoors.
community, learn new skills and even surveys and focus groups, writing,
advance your career. Giving to others “I am proud to be part of an awesome graphic design, proof reading and other If you’ve got outdoor space, you might Even with a simple lick of paint, it’s Protect your investment
can also help protect your mental and team!” web-based tasks. want to consider sprucing this up. worth getting hold of colour charts,
It’s important to think about what
physical health. looking at magazines or checking the
If you have only a few hours a month to There’s so many ways to get involved. As well as turning it into a welcoming would happen to your improvements
internet for inspiration.
Anthony, one of our Housing volunteers, volunteer, that’s fine. Even one hour a Anthony said: “I think it’s a simple thing. place to spend some time, you might if something awful happened such as a
If you want to have your say, you must For example, predictions for 2018 from fire or flood.
said: “When I retired I found I had a lot of month, and you will find it rewarding. want to get into the trend for growing Tenancy Free
free time and nothing to fill it with. Having Above all you will feel that you matter. make the effort to get involved. It’s so your own fruit and veg. Even on the design platform Houzz include colourful
worked all my life it was strange having rewarding!” smallest of balconies it’s possible to put kitchens, warm neutrals Sustainment
such as greys Service
You might forwant toadconsider
vice and home
guidanc
e
People with disabilities or chronic health insurance. This can cover the additional
so much time on my hands. So when together enough planters to keep you in and rich earthy shadesWiltshire
and big, bold Council tenants
conditions can benefit greatly from Contact us on 0300 456 0117 costs involved with returning your
Wiltshire Council put an advert in Housing fresh veg, salads and strawberries. floral wallpaper. House Beautiful also
Matters magazine for people to join a getting involved. Research has shown - option 5 or email Needfor
forecasts colourful interiors help managing home
2018,
to its full
your finances andglory.
your tenancy?
that adults with disabilities or health tenantparticipation@wiltshire.gov.uk pushing vivid colours such
Whatas lime
wegreen
scrutiny panel I applied and went for the
to get involved.
Plan the job can help with? Find out more at www.wiltshire.gov.uk/
interview. conditions ranging from heart disease, and fuchsia pink for our• walls.
Any debt or money difficulties
housing-council-housing
Whatever your budget, it pays to spend • Maximising your income
some time planning your projects. • Offering welfare benefit advice – making sure
“I am proud to be part of you are getting all the benefits you are entitled to
• Help with applying for grants
an awesome team!” Tenancy
• We can offer advice and guidance on moving home through Home Swapper or
Homes 4 Wiltshire
Free
Tenancy
Tenancy
Sustainment Service
• Help setting up a bank account / direct debit
Sustainment Free Service
Sustainment Service for advice and guidance for advice a
nd guid
ance
• Help you manage your money and make your rent payments by offering
budgeting support
for Wiltshire Council tenants
D17_380CH Sept 16
CouncilWiltshire Council tenants
• Offer advice and support to access employment and education
Wiltshire tenants • Referring and signposting you to more specialist services if appropriate
Need help managing your finances and your tenancy? How can we help? Drop–in service
What can we help with? Need help managing your finances
• We are happyand your
to arrange home tenancy?
visits, Are you...
meet at our offices or offer support, • Worried about debt?
• Any debt or money difficulties
• Maximising your income
What can we help with? where appropriate, over the phone.
• Struggling to pay your rent?
• Offering welfare benefit advice – • Anysure
making debt or money difficulties • Or come along to one
• Need to apply for benefits?
you are getting all the benefits you are entitled to of our drop-in sessions
• Help with applying for grants
• Maximising your income Come along for an informal
chat with a tenancy
• We can offer advice and guidance•onOffering welfare
moving home throughbenefit advice
Home Swapper or –How do I get
making in touch?
sure sustainment officer at:
Homes 4 Wiltshire
you are getting all the benefits you are
If you entitled
would toinformation
like more The Bemerton Heath
• Help setting up a bank account / direct debit on our service, or would like to take Estate Office:
• Help you manage your money and • make
Helpyour
withrent applying
payments byfor grants
offering advantage of the support on offer, Every Wednesday, 9am – 12pm
or
budgeting support
• We can offer advice and guidanceplease contact the income team on
on moving home through Home Swapper or
D17_380CH Sept 16
• Offer advice and support to access employment and education 0300 456 0017 or The Friary Estate Office:
Homes 4 Wiltshire
• Referring and signposting you to more specialist services if appropriate
email housingtso@wiltshire.gov.uk Every Wednesday, 9am – 12pm
• Help setting up a bank account / direct debit
How can we help? Drop–in service
• Help you manage your money and make your rent payments by offering
• We are happy to arrange home visits, Are you...
meet at our offices or offer support, budgeting support
0CH Sept 16
• Worried about debt?
16 Autumn 2018 | Housing Matters Housingwhere
Matters | Autumn
appropriate, over the 2018
phone.
• Offer• advice 17
Strugglingand support
to pay your rent?to access employment and education
Important advice on tenant gas safety
Are you a tenant?
If so please read some very important information below...
Annual servicing of all heating appliances
We run a 10-month servicing programme which means that your service could take
place up to two months earlier than previously.
Gas-fired appliances
If you have gas heating appliance(s) in your home,
the council has a legal duty under the Gas Safety
(Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 to ensure
it is serviced within 365 days each year. How to pay your rent: Independent Debt Advice
It is vital that tenants ensure they provide access on Remember rent is due in advance as per the terms of your tenancy If you need advice on benefits or
or before the ‘service due date’ – please comply agreement. You can make rent payments in the following ways:
with the contractor’s letter called ‘IMPORTANT specialist debt advice, please contact
– GAS APPLIANCE INSPECTION REQUIRED’. the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).
Cash, Cheque or Postal Order: Please do not send cash Five Rivers Health and Wellbeing
This law is in place for the safety of all tenants, neighbours
and those visiting and residing in the locality. By crossed cheque or postal order made through the post Centre, Hulse Road, Salisbury, SP1
payable to Wiltshire Council and sent to: 3NR. Tel: 0344 111 444.
Housing Management Services, Council House, Bourne Hill,
Oil fired and air source heating appliances Salisbury SP1 3UZ
www.cabwiltshire.org.uk
Cheques, postal orders or cash will also be taken by calling into our If you are elderly you may also wish
All servicing is free of charge Salisbury offices Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm to contact Age UK for advice:
21 Brown Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire,
If your property has oil fired or air source heating appliance, you should note it is the policy of the Direct Debit/Standing Order:
SP1 2AS. Tel: 01722 335425.
council to ensure a service is carried out within 365 days each year. You can make your rent payments via Direct Debit or Standing
www.ageuk.org.uk
Please ensure gas and electricity prepayment meters are in credit at the time the service engineer attends, Order. Please contact the housing income team on 0300 456 0117
option 1 for a form or more information. Direct Debit mandate Christians Against Poverty offer free
otherwise the service visit will be cancelled and you will need to re-arrange an alternative appointment. forms can also be downloaded at www.wiltshire.gov.uk debt advice to anyone in need.
Please note: engineers can only enter a property when an adult is present – that is someone over the age of 18.
Every effort will be made by both the contractor and the council to inform and assist tenants to make and Post Office or Payzone: Free phone Tel: 0800 328 0006.
Using your rent payment card you can make payment at any post www.capuk.org
keep service appointments.
office or shop displaying the payzone logo. If you need a payment The Money Advice Service: Free
Legal action will be started after all levels of communication have failed.
card or have lost the one you have got please contact the housing
The council has and will continue to take court impartial advice. Independent service
team on 0300 456 0117 option 1.
action to gain access to comply both with the law set up by government.
and with council policy. In all cases the council will Only without co-operation will the council be forced
Debit/Credit Card: Tel: 0300 500 5000.
seek recovery of all costs (minimum of £450) of to resort to making an application for an immediate By using our online payment service at www.wiltshire.gov.uk or the www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk
injunction hearing to gain access to the property and automated payment line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, on
obtaining an injunction against the tenant. National Debt Line: Free phone
recover all costs against the tenant. 0300 456 0119 or by calling one of our Customer Services team
on 0300 456 0100 9am to 5pm helpline. Tel: 08088 084000.
N.B. When making a payment you will need to select the payment option for www.nationaldebtline.co.uk
Housing Rent.
Tenants purchasing their own boiler/fires must: Wiltshire Savings and Loans:
Internet Banking/BACS Community based local savings and
• Request permission from the council in the first place
• Employ a gas safe engineer Inform your bank the amount Bank: HSBC loans scheme.
• Provide us with a copy of the installation certificate, after which we will put the address onto the servicing you want to pay, your account Sort code: 40-44-33
Tel: 01722 421881.
contract to ensure compliance with the gas safety regulations on an annual basis reference number and the Account Number: 51460021
council’s bank account details: www.wiltshiresavingsandloans.org.uk
Remember – For further information please contact
Nick Cobb, mechanical and electrical contracts surveyor
PayPal
By using our online payment service at www.wiltshire.gov.uk and
think gas safe! email: nick.cobb@wiltshire.gov.uk or 0300 456 0117 Option 3 select pay method PayPal. N.B when making a payment you will
need to select the payment option for Housing Rent.
18 Autumn 2018 | Housing Matters Housing Matters | Autumn 2018 19Recycling just got easier
It’s now easier than ever to recycle your Why do we need to recycle more?
rubbish as Wiltshire Council aims to keep more
Recycling saves energy, costs less and frees up
waste out of landfill and save money.
space in other waste bins.
From the end of July, a change in waste
It also has less impact on the environment
collection contract has meant you can now
than burying or burning rubbish, so the more
recycle many more plastic items in your
we can recycle, the better it is for all of us.
recycling bins.
In 2017/18, 45% of household waste in
As well as the usual plastic bottles, cardboard
Wiltshire was recycled. We hope the new
and shredded paper you can now add these
service will increase this.
items to your recycling bins:
If you have additional waste that will not fit
• plastic pots, tubs and trays
in your bins, you can take it to a household
• food and drink cartons
recycling centre - find your nearest at
You can include yoghurt pots, plastic trays www.wiltshire.gov.uk/household-
such as meat or fruit trays (remove any film) recycling-centres
margarine tubs, ice cream tubs and juice, milk
and soup cartons, Lids can be left on. For more information, including what can be
recycled in each bin, visit www.wiltshire.
Plastic films and black plastic cannot be gov.uk/rubbish-and-recycling or check
recycled and should be placed in your general with your landlord if you have communal bins.
waste bin.
To find out what happens to the recyclable waste that’s collected, you can visit
www.wiltshire.gov.uk/what-happens-to-recycling
Housing Matters magazine can be made available in large format and articles can be interpreted into other
languages. Please send your request to: tenantparticipation@wiltshire.gov.uk or call 01722 434482.You can also read
