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Today's News: Monday 29 April
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News
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Govan Law Centre launches draft Housing (Scotland) Bill
 The Govan Law Centre (GLC) has released a list of recommendations for the Scottish Government to consider in any forthcoming Housing (Scotland) Bill.
The GLC said its draft Housing (Scotland) Bill will strengthen and improve the rights of tenants (in both the social and private rented sectors), and the rights of homeless Scots and Scottish gypsy-travellers.
Govan Law Centre’s proposed future Housing (Scotland) Bill includes:
[1] Statement on the abolition of the eviction of Scottish secure tenants - the Scottish Ministers must by 31st December 2015, prepare and publish a statement setting out the measures which social landlords have taken, are taking, and intend to take for the purpose of abolishing eviction for rent arrears in Scotland, and the statement must specify a target date for abolition (which must be no later than 31 December 2018 for the achievement of that purpose, and must also specify interim objectives towards the achievement of that purpose);
[2] A new duty on the Scottish Ministers to develop and implement a national prevention of homelessness strategy;
[3] A new duty on Scottish local authorities (amending section 11 of the Homelessness etc., (Scotland) Act 2003) to provide access to a range of free co-ordinated services, including independent legal advice and representation, money advice, welfare benefits advice and social care services to prevent people facing eviction or repossession becoming homeless; and for local authorities to provide or facilitate dedicated tenancy sustainment protection officers in their localities;
[4] An amendment to section 16 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 to prevent tenants of registered social landlords from being evicted due to the non-payment of the bedroom tax;
[5] To extend the landlord’s Pre-Action Requirement obligations to help tenants in rent arrears after the Notice of Proceeding for Recovery of Possession is served and not just before; and to require social landlords to provide such advice and assistance to enable unbanked tenants in receipt of the Universal Credit obtain access to appropriate banking services;
[6] To introduce a new system of regulation for fair rents in the private rented sector;
[7] To introduce a new form of Scottish secure tenancy for gypsy-travellers in Scotland;
[8] To amend section 5 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 to enable local authorities to request registered social landlord to provide interim or temporary accommodation to those homeless persons to whom the local authority owes a duty under section 31(2) of the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987.
govanlc.blogspot.co.uk
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National tenant scrutiny learning programme for landlords and tenants launched
 The Scottish Government has commissioned CIH Scotland, in partnership with HouseMark Scotland, to develop and deliver a three year tenant scrutiny training and learning programme.
The programme is designed to improve housing organisations’ understanding of the scrutiny intentions of the Scottish Social Housing Charter and related regulatory framework.
It will demonstrate how social landlords and tenants can deliver this in practice and strengthen the connection between performance management, continuous improvement, value for money and scrutiny. Housing organisations are being invited to register their interest in getting involved with the programme.
Marian Reid, head of learning and development, CIH Scotland, said: “This is a comprehensive and ambitious programme which we’re delighted to be delivering. Those taking part will gain a practical understanding of tenant scrutiny and have the opportunity to help shape its direction in Scotland.”
Kirsty Wells, HouseMark Scotland manager, said: “HouseMark has played a leading role in supporting the development of tenant scrutiny in England and Wales. Working in partnership with CIH Scotland in this project will enable us to share this experience with the Scottish housing sector.”
Anne Cook, regulation policy and tenant empowerment team leader, Scottish Government, added: “With the introduction of the Scottish Social Housing Charter the Scottish Government was keen to provide support to tenants and landlords to develop effective scrutiny practices. Following a public procurement exercise we are delighted to be working with the CIH and HouseMark Scotland on this exciting learning programme.”
To register an interest and for more information on the programme, visit www.cih.org/scotland
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Taxpayers face huge bill over Edinburgh repairs scandal
Taxpayers in Edinburgh face a multi-million-pound bill over the city’s housing repairs scandal, according to Scotland on Sunday.
Auditors drafted in to investigate Edinburgh City Council’s property conservation department have revealed that the local authority is unlikely to be able to claw back millions of pounds it has paid out to contractors.
The department was rocked by widespread allegations it had commissioned millions of pounds worth of unnecessary work. Police have investigated the claims surrounding the repairs scheme. Staff have been sacked and suspended, but there have been no prosecutions so far.
Edinburgh’s scheme allowed the council to hire private firms to carry out work on properties – largely ageing tenements – without the approval of owners, who were then billed. The system was suspended in April 2011 after the allegations emerged and was effectively scrapped last month.
By April 2011, officials had paid contractors about £27 million for work carried out but had not yet invoiced residents.
Now independent auditors from Deloitte say the council is unlikely to get back millions paid to contractors because it does not have enough evidence to prove the works were necessary in order to recover the money from homeowners.
They said the council would struggle to “demonstrate that all works undertaken were necessary and that the associated costs were reasonably incurred”, making likely taxpayers will have to fund at least a portion of the outstanding £22m bill.
Those representing homeowners caught up in the scandal said many would refuse to pay if the council could not demonstrate the work had been legitimate and correctly priced.
Patrick McGuire, a partner at Thomsons Solicitors, which is representing nearly 100 homeowners, said: “Edinburgh city council are going to find it extremely difficult to enforce payments now that it is clear they are lacking key evidence.
“Homeowners will not – and should not – pay if they believe work was unnecessary or excessively expensive, and the council in many cases won’t be able to prove otherwise. I would also anticipate a second group of homeowners emerging – those who have dutifully paid their bills and now want at least some of their money back.”
He said if the council took residents to court with incomplete files on repair projects, the cases were likely to be thrown out.
Gordon Murdie, from Quantas Quantity Surveyors, which is also representing residents, said: “Homeowners are going to say to the council, ‘We want to see where the repair costs to our property stems from, who the surveyor was, what were the original estimates and what kind of materials were used’. If the council can’t provide these,, they aren’t going to pay.”
Property conservation department director, Mark Turley, added: “The fact that we commissioned Deloitte to properly investigate this matter shows how seriously we took the concerns, although it’s worth remembering that the police investigation found no evidence of criminality in the property conservation service.”
Officials have received some 945 complaints relating to 604 projects since the scheme was suspended. At one stage, about 3,000 notices a year were issued, affecting around 37,000 people.
Allegations against the council included the commissioning of work that was unnecessary and the use of poor-quality or needlessly expensive materials.
The auditors were paid £2.4m for the investigation into management culture at the council and compiling the report, which was completed last June but published last week.
www.edinburgh.gov.uk
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ACHA launches new repairs service
The start of the new financial year has seen the establishment of a new in-house repairs service by Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA).
The Association has established a subsidiary company Argyll Homes For All (AHFA) to carry out day to day repairs, cyclical maintenance and servicing within the landlord's 5,100 homes across Argyll and Bute.
Alastair MacGregor, Chief Executive, ACHA and John Forbes, Managing Director, AHFA along with some of the new maintenance team
AHFA has been given a three year contract to deliver these services on behalf of the Association to its tenants. The new subsidiary will have staff and tradesmen located throughout Argyll and Bute providing services in jointly branded vehicles.
Alastair MacGregor, chief executive of ACHA, said: “After a year in the making I am pleased that Argyll Homes For All is now up and running and providing a range of repairs and maintenance services under contract to the Association. I hope that our tenants will get an excellent service and good value for money in the arrangements.”
He added: “This is a very exciting time in the Association’s development and I hope our new repairs subsidiary will rise to the task and be able to expand its services both to ACHA and others over the next few years.”
Argyll Homes For All (AHFA) has appointed John Forbes as its managing director.
He said: “I believe there are tremendous opportunities available to Argyll Homes For All under this agreement. We look forward to delivering an excellent service and developing strong relationships with Argyll Community Housing Association over the coming months and years. We aim to broaden the services currently offered and in time roll out our activities to a wider audience.”
www.acha.co.uk
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‘Bedroom Tax’ campaigners launch Scotland-wide Federation
Over 250 delegates and visitors from across the length and breadth of Scotland attended a conference in Glasgow on Saturday to found the 'All Scottish Anti Bedroom Tax Federation'.
The delegates represented 70 local anti-bedroom tax campaigns and four trade union branches which represent local government and housing association workers.
In his opening remarks from the chair, Brian Smith, Branch Secretary of Glasgow City Unison set the tone in referring to the conference and the federation as an expression of the local campaigns rooted in communities.
Mr Smith said: "That is the strength of this movement, and that is how the bedroom tax will be defeated."
The rally by was opened by Garry Burns of Govan Law Centre. Garry talked about the approach of Govan Law Centre and its petition campaign to persuade the Scottish Government to change Section 16 of the Housing Act, this would prevent any evictions taking place for bedroom tax arrears. Garry also urged anyone facing legal proceedings to contact Law Centres to ensure they get proper advice.
Other speakers included Dave Keating from the Campaign to Defeat the Household Tax in Ireland. He praised the Poll Tax campaign in the 1990’s as being an inspiration to their fight in Ireland to oppose a new universal property tax.
Sandra White, SNP MSP also spoke from the platform stating that she would be “at the forefront of the campaign”.
She pledged to physically stand with anyone in her constituency threatened with eviction, adding: “I will be the first at the scene of any eviction in my constituency.”
However, she ruled out the need to change section 16 to prevent evictions saying that this option would still leave people in debt and so would face other debt management procedures such as wages arrestment.
This position drew criticisms from a significant number of speakers who demanded that the SNP government stand up now and fight to defend those facing eviction due to the bedroom tax.
Sinead Daly, from Dundee Bin the Bedroom Tax campaign said: “Shelter Scotland has said that it would only cost £52 million for the Scottish Government to ensure no one on Housing Benefit would be worse off due to the implementation of the bedroom tax. Why won’t the SNP commit to fund this?”
A founding statement was debated and voted on. There were also elections for office bearers a steering committee. Tommy Sheridan, (Cardonald campaign) was elected as Chairperson and Luke Ivory (East End campaign) was elected as Secretary.
Luke Ivory, speaking after his election said: "It’s important we unite communities and campaigns together with initiatives like this and put pressure on politicians of all stripes in local councils, Holyrood and Westminster. The bedroom tax isn’t accidental it’s a massive attack on social housing to benefit the private sector. In Scotland the Scottish Government could spend £52 million to allow people to stay in their homes. We need to go home and build an anti eviction army.”
The conference also agreed to build for an all Scotland demonstration on June 1.
Founding Statement:
The introduction of the bedroom tax by the Tory-led Government in Westminster is part of a vicious attack on the poorest sections of the working class.
The Tories claim that the bedroom tax will "save" £500 million. Yet the richest 1 000 people in the UK now have a combined wealth estimated at £450 billion. The Tories want to force the poor to choose between buying food, paying bills or paying their rent, in order to help pay for an economic crisis they did not create.
Protests and mass non-payment defeated the hated Tory Poll Tax. The Tory-Lib Dem bedroom tax can be beaten too.
Support local communities to set up anti- bedroom tax meetings and form local anti-bedroom tax groups. Help coordinate local groups to form a strong and united fightback to stop evictions and scrap the bedroom tax.
Call on all local authorities, housing associations, and the Scottish and Westminster governments to support a no evictions policy and refuse to implement the bedroom tax.
To recognise the Scottish Government has the power to amend Section 16 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001, to treat bedroom tax arrears as ordinary debt - not rent arrears - and calls on the Scottish Government to implement this change immediately, in line with the Govan Law Centre petition to lift the threat of bedroom tax evictions from the 105 000 households effected by the bedroom tax in Scotland.
Build an anti-evictions army of ordinary citizens to physically oppose, resist and prevent attempted bedroom tax evections anywhere in Scotland through all peaceful means necessary, and assemble phone trees, Facebook lists, and other social media networks that may be required to facilitate the building of such an anti-eviction army.
Call on the Scottish Government to prevent both bedroom tax debt and job losses resulting from the bedroom tax, by funding the loss of housing benefit income and then fighting to win that money back from the Tory-led Government at Westminster.
To work closely with trade unions to stop evictions and scrap the bedroom tax, and work with trade unions to help support workers affected by the bedroom tax and those who refuse to implement evictions or the bedroom tax.
Campaign for the writing off of any debt incurred due to the bedroom tax and campaign to recover the shortfall for local authorities and housing associations from the Tory-led government at Westminster.
Support the building of new social housing to provide the homes people need.
Oppose all cuts and austerity measures. Oppose all attacks on the poor, unemployed, disabled, vulnerable and working class people including the so called "welfare reform bill".
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Letter to the Editor - Probationary Tenancies
 Dear Editor,
I write in response to David Bookbinder’s recent blog and Shelter’s objections to the Scottish Government proposal to make all new social housing tenancies “probationary.”
It seems that ever since Council and Housing Association tenants at long last got their long overdue, basic human right to security of tenure of their home, the drafters of Housing legislation in Scotland seem to see every new Housing Bill as an opportunity to take this hard fought for right away.
The same silly arguments in favour are put forward every time and the same fundamental question is asked in response. Why must we tar everyone with the same brush?
On reading that this ludicrous idea was once again being promoted for the umpteenth time by different administrations and Ministers, I can only conclude that someone, somewhere in the upper echelons of our Civil Service still perceives the populace of Scotland beyond suburban Edinburgh, and in need of “social” housing, as being the great unwashed who cannot be trusted not to store their coal in the bath without first being put on “probation”.
As someone proud to have been born and brought up in a Dundee Council scheme, I can assure our friends in high places that, if I ever get to enjoy the privilege of playing golf at their club, I do know that the showers are not for the washing of dirty golf shoes.
“Probation” is a term, we should remember, that is most commonly used in relation to the criminal justice system. I, therefore, find it staggering that civil servants seem to still be so out of touch with the realities of everyday life that they continue to promote the introduction of draconian, sledgehammer measures that further stigmatise the poor, dressed up as some kind of strategic means to tackle the worst problems created by the poverty and inequality that continues to scar our society. Just how does this concept of “probation” square with championing an enlightened policy on homelessness?
So come on CIH Scotland, come on COSLA and ALACHO and yes, come on SFHA, let’s get behind Shelter and the other charities who have written to Margaret Burgess, and urge her to kick this idea, of putting every low income family on “probation” before they can get the simple right of security in their home, into touch.
One final point – as the Scottish Housing Regulator is charged primarily with looking out for the interests of tenants and prospective tenants, can we expect to hear their voice opposing this blatant proposal to diminish basic tenancy rights?
Bruce Forbes
Director
Angus Housing Association Limited
www.angusha.org.uk
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Politicians visit Caledonia Housing Association
 Caledonia Housing Association last week played host to two of Dundee’s top politicians.
Lord Provost Bob Duncan and Will Dawson, convener of Dundee City Council's city development committee visited the Tayside-based housing association, which operates throughout Dundee, Angus, Perthshire, Fife and the Highlands.
Caledonia was formed in 2011 by the merger of Servite and Perthshire Housing associations to provide high quality affordable and sustainable housing and a variety of specialist services for older people.
Picture: CHA Chief Executive Julie Cosgrove and Lord Provost Duncan.
Lord Provost Bob Duncan was shown around Caledonia's newly established integrated Housing with Care scheme, in Dickson Avenue.
He said: "As a registered charity that owns and manages around 4,000 properties Caledonia touches the lives of many different people providing quality homes for rent and a range of care and support services.
"The dedication and enthusiasm of the staff that I met during my visit was first class with a real focus on customer service."
Caledonia's chief executive Julie Cosgrove said: "We cater for many diverse needs, offering mainstream housing for families, couples and single people, as well as supported accommodation, for older people and those with disabilities.
"We are grateful for the opportunity and financial support from Dundee City Council in developing new models of service delivery for older people in the city, such as the Housing with Care service, which has created six new jobs.
"In addition, we have recently won the Dundee Volunteer Friendly Award for our support of volunteers and for demonstrating excellent volunteer management practice, funded by the Reshaping Care programme in Dundee."
caledoniaha.co.uk
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Raasay residents consulted on running of island
The residents of Raasay are being consulted on whether they would want to take over the running of the island, the BBC has reported.
The Scottish Government has suggested a community buyout as one of three options to resolve the future of how the isle's sporting rights are managed.
Another option is to offer the islanders the lease to the rights for up to 175 years.
The third is to put the lease out to tender but with conditions that ensure it still benefits islanders.
The consultation runs until 7 June.
The Scottish Government owns crofting land and the rights to shooting deer and fishing trout on Raasay.
Raasay Crofters' Association has managed the rights for 18 years, after a public agency gave them up, and it had expected to continue to do so when the lease was put out for tender last year.
However, government officials awarded the lease to South Ayrshire Stalking after it submitted the highest bid.
The crofters' association went on to accuse the government of acting like an absentee landlord.
Following a public and political row, South Ayrshire Stalking gave up its claim to the lease and Raasay Crofters' Association was awarded an extension.
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Irvine’s Joe Smith Good Neighbour Award 2013
 Irvine Housing Association (IHA) has announced Joan Hannah of Stakeford, Dumfries as the winner of the Joe Smith Good Neighbour Award 2013.
Alyx Martin, who nominated Joan, her neighbour said: "I am delighted. Joan is actively involved in her community. She is a member of the Irvine Housing Action Group and travels frequently to meetings to improve the services in the community. She also helps me with my shopping and gives me a lift in her car when the need arises. Joan is a friendly, obliging individual who has a positive impact on her community - a worthy winner of the award."
Picture: (left-right) Alyx Martin, Joan Hannah and Pamela Johnstone.
Community involvement officer, Pamela Johnstone presented Joan with an engraved Swarovski pen and a gift voucher.
Pamela said: "This award marks the good work in our communities that often goes unrecognised, but makes a difference to the lives of others. Congratulations to Joan."
Joan added: "I got a lovely surprise when IHA called to tell me I'd won the award. I would like to thank Alyx for nominating me as a Good Neighbour. I am delighted and would also like to thank the association for the lovely gifts."
The Good Neighbour Award was introduced in 2010 in memory of Joe Smith, a former senior officer at Irvine Housing Association.
Irvine Housing Association
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SURVEY: Scottish Construction in 2013 (part 2)
Our sister publication Scottish Construction Now’s quarterly survey returns for its second installment to gauge the optimism in the Scottish construction industry during 2013.
Our first survey in January revealed that 39% of our readers are more optimistic about their business prospects in 2013 than they were in last year.
The month long poll of our 4,546 subscribers revealed a similar number of businesses expected turnover to grow over the year.
The figures were less optimistic when it came to job opportunities with only 27% of respondents expecting to add to their workforce in 2013 and 30% planning to invest more in training compared to 2012.
Has your outlook changed since the beginning of the year and, if so, what is the catalyst for this change?
Please take 1 minute to complete our quick fire survey
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Director of Property Assets
Become one of our greatest assets
Director of Property Assets
£57,840 - £72,300 pa (Depending on qualifications and experience)
Selkirk, Scottish Borders
The Eildon Group has built a strong reputation and risen to a position as one of Scotland’s leading Housing Associations. At the heart of our service is a deep commitment to excellence and the provision of high quality, affordable homes, care and support services for the individuals and communities we serve. We’ve achieved and sustained an impressive level of growth and quality service provision because we have an equally impressive collection of talented individuals working with us. Now, we need to add to that list. And that’s where you come in.
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Lead our Property Management and Development Teams
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Take up a key position on our Executive Team
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Oversee the delivery of our portfolio of major projects
We’re looking for a highly experienced, senior individual to take on the role of Director of Property Assets. Your key responsibilities will include the development and delivery of the Association’s property assets and the management and maintenance of housing stock of over 2,000 homes and
our commercial property portfolio.
You’ll develop the policies and systems needed to deliver our strategy and lead the Property Asset Directorate effectively and maximise our £2.3m stock investment.
This is a high profile, high responsibility role, and a substantial career step forward with a respected RSL. To be successful, you’ll need:
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Graduate or equivalent qualifications in a property/construction related field
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Senior property management experience
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Senior construction development experience including multi-agency working
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Detailed knowledge of planning systems and building regulations
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Good awareness of sustainability developments in construction
It would be an advantage if you also had knowledge of social housing, however, we can support your personal development in policy, legislation, strategy, funding models for affordable housing and procurement processes.
In return for your expertise and leadership, we offer an excellent benefits package, including a contributory pension scheme.
A Candidate Information Pack is available to download from Eildon’s website at www.eildon.org.uk
Alternatively you can request a pack from Eildon’s HR Department on 01750 725900 or via e-mail from jobs@eildon.org.uk
You can also use this e-mail to arrange an informal chat with our Chief Executive, Nile Istephan.
Closing date: 12 noon on Friday 10 May 2013
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Corporate Services Admin Assistant – Parkhead Housing Association
Corporate Services Admin Assistant
(Part time – Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday morning, 17.5 hours per week)
1 year fixed term
EVH Grade 5: £21,167 – £24,229 ( pro rata )
Parkhead Housing Association is a Registered Social Landlord based in the East End of Glasgow. PHA has over 35 years experience working in the sector and has a proud history of providing good quality, affordable housing for people in housing need. We pride ourselves on being an energetic workforce who is committed to providing a first class service to the people of Parkhead.
Parkhead Housing Association is looking to recruit a Part Time Corporate Services Admin Assistant to join our dynamic team on a 1 year fixed term contract. Reporting to the Administration Officer, the successful applicant will be required to demonstrate excellent communication and administrative skills. The successful applicant must also have a good understanding of IT as once in position the candidate will need to become familiar with the Associations Housing Management and Document Management systems. Providing a front line service the candidate must be prepared to deal with the general public on a daily basis as well as being flexible, a keen learner, enthusiastic and willing to take on a number of fresh challenges and opportunities. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual to develop further in their career.
Please click here for an application pack. Alternatively you can contact Karen McIntyre on 0141 556 6226 or email at karen.mcintyre@parkheadha.org.uk. Closing date for applications is Friday 10th May 2013.
Parkhead Housing Association Limited aims to be an equal opportunities employer with an equality and diversity policy in place and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
All applicants are expected to complete the application form as CVs will not be accepted.
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Assistant Technical Services Manager - Ochil View Housing Association
Ochil View Housing Association Ltd. is an ambitious social landlord committed to providing good quality affordable housing and high standards of customer service to over 1300 households in Clackmannanshire and West Fife.
Following organisational restructuring, we wish to recruit suitably qualified, skilled, and enthusiastic individuals for the following newly created post:
Assistant Technical Services Manager
£35,025 to £37,984 EVH Grade 8 (PA 28 – 31)
(plus essential car user allowance of £1,231 annually).
The Association’s properties include a diverse range of new build and rehabilitated property and include non-traditional stock acquired through large scale voluntary transfer. Our investment programme in 2013/14 is just under £2 million. This post is responsible for:
· Operational leadership of the Association’s Technical Services team to ensure our contractors deliver to value, quality and timescales and within budget, reactive and planned maintenance programmes.
· Managing the Association's reactive and planned maintenance programme ensuring that the Association's properties are maintained to the highest standard possible.
For a recruitment pack please contact:
Ochil View Housing Association Ltd., Ochil House, Marshill, Alloa, FK10 1AB. Tel. 01259 722899 or email: enquiries@ochilviewha.co.uk.
Particulars also available for download from Employers in Voluntary Housing web site: www.evh.org.uk (no CV’s or Recruitment Agency referrals)
The closing date for applications is Wednesday 1st May 2013
Interviews are scheduled for Wednesday 15th May 2013
Ochil View is an Investor in People and is working towards Healthy Working Lives Gold Accreditation. We are committed to equal opportunities. |
Property Services Manager / Officer - Waverley Housing
PROPERTY SERVICES MANAGER
(£36,663 p.a.)
We are seeking a highly motivated and committed individual to plan and manage our property maintenance service and deliver our asset management strategy. As a member of our Management Team, you will contribute to policy development and a performance culture which promotes continuous improvement. The personal values integral to this post are an ability to adapt and embrace change, a passion to drive service improvement and the capability to develop relations and work collaboratively to achieve organisational success.
You will require to demonstrate proven technical expertise and have a comprehensive understanding of construction and procurement that has been enhanced through the successful completion of a technical qualification.
This rewarding post offers an attractive and competitive employment package, including a leased company car (on a contributory basis).
PROPERTY SERVICES OFFICER
(£27,496 p.a.)
We are seeking a suitably qualified and experienced individual to join our maintenance team. Reporting to the Property Services Manager, you will have demonstrable technical expertise, knowledge of best practice in construction and procurement and you will be qualified to a minimum of HNC level or equivalent, in a technical related discipline.
You will contribute to the efficient and effective delivery of a reactive repairs service for all our properties, and ensure void properties are brought up to the company’s lettable standard. We offer an attractive and competitive employment package, including provision of a company vehicle.
These are full-time, permanent posts and will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure.
Closing date: Monday 29 April 2013 at 12 noon
Interview Date(s): Thursday 2 May 2013 (Property Services Officer)
Friday 3 May 2013 (Property Services Manager)
For an application pack contact:
Waverley Housing, 27 North Bridge Street, Hawick TD9 9BD. Tel: 01450 364200 or e-mail recruitment@waverley-housing.co.uk
www.waverley-housing.co.uk
Registered as a Scottish Charity SCO26231
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Assistant Housing Manager - Weslo Housing Management
 Assistant Housing Manager
Weslo Housing Management
Bathgate, West Lothian
c. £30,000 - £41,000
Final Salary Pension and other Benefits
Weslo Housing Management is a registered social landlord with a reputation for high standards of customer care. The company’s objective is to provide quality affordable rented housing and we are committed to future service improvements.
As we move into one of the most challenging periods in the history of social housing provision, we are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic housing professional to work within our busy Housing Management department.
The Assistant Housing Manager will lead and manage the Estate Management team including the Senior Housing Officer and Owner Liaison Officer of our Bathgate office and the Estate Manager in the Boness office. You will support and deputise for the Housing Manager in delivering services.
You will be educated to Degree/Housing Diploma level and will be experienced in social housing with a proven track record in both staff and estate management.
A current driving licence is essential as is the ability to occasionally work in the evening or at weekends if required.
This is a full time position of 37 hours a week.
If you share our passion for providing an excellent housing service and you are dynamic, articulate with the relevant experience then we would like to hear from you.
For information on how to apply go to www.eglinton.co.uk
The closing date 12 noon Friday 3rd. May 2013.
Information about Weslo Housing Management is available at www.weslo-housing.org
Weslo is committed to equality of opportunity in employment practice and therefore we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
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Senior Housing Officer - Weslo Housing Management
Senior Housing Officer
Weslo Housing Management
Bathgate, West Lothian
c. £30,000 - £37,000
Final Salary Pension and other Benefits
Weslo Housing Management is a registered social landlord with a reputation for high standards of customer care. The company’s objective is to provide quality affordable rented housing and we are committed to future service improvements.
As we move into one of the most challenging periods in the history of social housing provision, we are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic housing professional to work within our busy Housing Management department.
The Senior Housing Officer will supervise the Estate Management team of Housing Officers and support staff in delivering; Arrears Management, Allocations, Voids, Estate Management and Welfare Reform. You will support and deputise for the Assistant Housing Manager in delivering services.
A Post Graduate Diploma in Housing is desirable. You will have a proven track record in estate management.
A current driving licence is essential as is the ability to occasionally work in the evening or at weekends if required.
This is a full time position of 37 hours a week.
If you share our passion for providing an excellent housing service and you are dynamic, articulate with the relevant experience then we would like to hear from you.
For information on how to apply go to www.eglinton.co.uk
The closing date 12 noon Friday 3rd. May 2013.
Information about Weslo Housing Management is available at www.weslo-housing.org
Weslo is committed to equality of opportunity in employment practice and therefore we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
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Positive partnerships: dealing with the challenge of antisocial behaviour
 One day learning event from HouseMark
Glasgow Housing Association Training Academy, Thursday 13 June
We are delighted to announce our “Positive Partnerships” event to be held in the Glasgow Housing Association Training Academy on Thursday 13 June 2013. The event will bring together the best speakers from Scotland highlighting practical examples for effective management of antisocial behaviour.
Outcome 6 of the Scottish Social Housing Charter requires that “social landlords, working in partnership with other agencies, help to ensure that tenants and other customers live in well-maintained neighbourhoods where they feel safe”. This covers a range of actions that social landlords can take on their own and in partnership with others. It also covers the role of landlords in working with others to tackle antisocial behaviour. One of the Scottish Government’s long term aims is to make Scotland’s communities safer and stronger places to live.
This one day event will highlight some pioneering partnership working that is currently taking place in Scotland involving social landlords and other organisations and which meets the new Charter and regulatory requirements. The outcomes of these projects will be shared with delegates so that they can use the experiences of others to effectively manage antisocial behaviour in their own organisations.
So far, confirmed speakers for the event include:
· Jacqueline Norwood, Assistant Director of Neighbourhood Services, Glasgow Housing Association who will highlight GHA’s Community Improvement Partnership work in the city along with the Police and Fire Services.
· Gary McCallum, who has been in mediation for many years, and is a Senior Mediator with West Dunbartonshire Council as well as being an Assessor and trainer for the Scottish Community Mediation Network’s Accreditation schemes. Gary will highlight his experiences of mediation in West Dunbartonshire including partnership working with organisations referring cases for mediation;
· Sarah McCulloch, Team Leader, Shelter Scotland Support Services who will discuss positive outcomes of the help and support provided to families in Glasgow to sustain permanent homes following the breakdown of previous tenancies.
· Christopher Watt, Solicitor with Dumfries and Galloway Council and Chair of the ASB Lawyers Forum in Scotland. Christopher will provide examples from the legal perspective of positive joint working but will also take part in an “ASK THE LAWYER” session. When you book a place at the event you will have the opportunity to submit a question to Christopher in advance of the day.
· Fraser Gormal, Chair of ASBOF (Antisocial Behaviour Officers Forum) and Service Manager with the Conflict Resolution Service of Glasgow Community and Safety Services will highlight the work being done to address antisocial behaviour in the private rented sector in Glasgow.
Kirsty Wells, HouseMark’s Scotland Manager commented “antisocial behaviour often brings negative images to mind but our “Positive Partnerships” theme means that this should be an inspiring day providing delegates with examples of good and positive practice from across Scotland.”
Attendance at the “Positive Partnerships” event costs £150 + VAT per delegate. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Book by Wednesday 8 May 2013 and receive 10% discount on your booking. If you are interested in booking a place then please contact Patricia Peters, either by e-mail at patricia.peters@housemark.co.uk or by telephone 024 76460500 or Kirsty Wells at kirsty.wells@housemark.co.uk or 01968 661179. Further information about HouseMark and the services we offer can be found at www.housemark.co.uk
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Have we forgotten about the charter?
Wednesday 12 June 2013
The Teacher Building, Glasgow – Book now
What progress is being made by the many landlords that need to change the way they deliver services to align with the Scottish Social Housing Charter outcomes?
· What are they doing differently to make sure that tenants and other customers live in well-maintained neighbourhoods where they feel safe or that people looking for housing get information that helps them make informed choices?
· And just how easy has it been to get tenants and customers on board?
· Other priorities may have shifted landlords’ focus, but with the first reports to the Regulator due next year, you can’t afford to take your eye off the Charter.
· How has the Charter affected how we measure performance?
· What can be learned from social landlords that are doing things differently?
· What are landlords doing in the new world of tenant scrutiny?
· What are we learning from tenants and other customers?
· What are the risks posed by welfare reform to meeting the Charter outcomes?
All these questions and more at this full day event.
Who should attend
This event is aimed primarily at front line staff, policy and strategy staff, performance managers and housing managers.
Price and to book your space:
Prices start from £175 + VAT for CIH members
Wednesday 12 June 2013
The Teacher Building, Glasgow – Book now
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Green Deal for Scotland
BRE AND GLASGOW CALEDONIAN UNIVERSITY
GREEN DEAL FOR SCOTLAND
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Event: Green Deal Information Seminar
Date: Thursday 16 May, 2013
Location: Glasgow Caledonian University
Time: 12:30 – 14:30
Cost: £30 per person, plus VAT
(Light refreshments will be provided)
Early booking is advised. To book please email ebecpd@gcu.ac.uk
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Details:
This event is intended to inform interested parties on progress of Green Deal to date and how Scottish Energy Certifiers, Local Authorities, Housing Associations and other construction and property professionals can identify roles within Green Deal that they may engage in. There will also be relevant information for those interested in becoming Green Deal Advisors. This may be your starting point to receive a formal presentation on this topic and explore the opportunities that Green Deal can offer.
Event Programme
· Registration and Introduction to event
· Green Deal Introduction and Overview - progress to date
· Green Deal Advisor Training
· Green Deal Certification Framework
· EPC and ACD schemes and routes towards Green Deal in Scotland
· Question & Answer Session
Close
Intended audience
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Construction professionals
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Existing EPC Certifiers and others interested in becoming a Green Deal Assessor
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Local Authority department leaders and decision makers
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Financiers
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Gas Engineers
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Housing Association members
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MCS scheme members (inc. Solar PV and other installation firms)
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Training at SHARE: First Aid at Work
HSE APPROVED 'FIRST AID AT WORK'
Fridays 31 May, 7 & 14 June
9.30am – 4.30pm
Trainer: Sylvia Cockburn of St Andrews First Aid
Course content includes
Understanding the role of the first-aider including reference to:
(i) the importance of preventing cross-infection;
(ii) the need for recording incidents and actions;
(iii) use of available equipment;
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Assessing the situation and circumstances in order to act safely, promptly and effectively in an emergency
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Administering first aid to a casualty who is unconscious (including seizure)
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Administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation
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Administering first aid to a casualty who is choking
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Administering first aid to a casualty who is wounded and bleeding
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Administering first aid to a casualty who is suffering from shock
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Providing appropriate first aid for minor injuries
Administering First Aid to a casualty with:
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Injuries to bones, muscles and joints, including suspected spinal injuries
Chest injuries
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Burns and scalds
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Eye injuries
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Sudden poisoning
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Anaphylactic shock
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Recognising the presence of major illness and providing appropriate First Aid (including heart attack, stroke, epilepsy, asthma and diabetes)
Certification: the certificate for successful completion of this course is valid for three years.
Cost: Members: £200, Non-members £275 including all course materials, lunch and refreshments (this is less than St Andrew’s Ambulance Association and other providers and also includes lunch!)
To book a place on this course or for further information please call 0141 550 7595 or e-mail info@share.org.uk
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CIH Scotland training courses
Housing law - Evictions
At this morning session Jim Bauld will make sure you are up to date on evictions housing law concentrating on the grounds for recovery of possession involved in Scottish Secured Tenancies.
15 May 2013, Glasgow - Book now
Influencing the decision makers
At a time of financial uncertainty and continued policy change it is vital that you demonstrate value, and maximise your influence with decision makers. You will leave the session with the skills, understanding and drive to improve your influence with decision makers and build relationships.
23 May 2013, Edinburgh - Book now
Motivational interviewing
Looking for a new technique to have positive conversations with your customers to strengthen their own motivation and their commitment to change? Bridie’s fantastic session will leave you with a good understanding of motivational interviewing principles, skills and strategies.
5 June 2013, Glasgow – Book now
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Hot Topic - Current Issues in Discrimination Law - 29 May 2013
 Betty's Room, EVH Offices, 137 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow
A central focus of the Coalition Government is the reform of UK employment law. These reforms will have a major impact on unfair dismissal. Those who cannot pursue unfair dismissal claims or who find that they will receive only limited compensation from unfair dismissal are likely to turn to discrimination law for assistance.
This seminar will examine the current issues in discrimination law. The last year has seen some very important cases decided by the UK courts and tribunals, the Court of Justice of the European Union and the European Court of Human Rights.
The speakers will be Tony McGrade and Giles Woolfson, who are both solicitors with McGrade + Company Employment Lawyers, and accredited specialists in employment law, and Susan Campbell, Recruitment Manager at EVH.
For further information on the topics being covered, the speakers and timings, download the flyer and that all important booking form from our website www.evh.org.uk or email Shanna@evh.org.uk.
We hope to see any staff and Board/Committee members who may be interested in attending the second in our series of EVH Hot Topic events in 2013.
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