Moss Bank, Rainford, Town Centre & Fingerpost

Young people from Rainford High School have sampled life at the front of the class by voluntarily teaching local pensioners how to kick-start their computer skills.

The tech-loving pupils became ‘mini mentors’ to residents from a Helena Homes sheltered housing scheme in Rainford, showing them how to become whizzes of the web and Nintendo Wii at voluntary ‘silvers surfers’ workshops held in the residents’ local community centre.

Each tenant was paired up with their own little helper to learn all about the joys of computing – brushing up on typing skills and finding out how to send emails, play games and print documents.

Mary Arnold, from Helena’s Rainford Road sheltered scheme, has relished the chance to get to grips with technology thanks to help from her mentor. She said: “The silver surfers class was a great learning experience for me, and proved you are never too old to learn something new – I even beat the children at a bowling game!

“I really enjoyed working with my mentor - it was lovely to be able to chat with the younger generation about things that they are interested in. I plan to carry on developing my computer skills and knowledge in the future - it’s a great way to keep my brain active.”

Nichola Wilkinson, Helena’s Project Officer for Health and Well-being, added: “The residents and children have thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the silver surfers class and it has been really great to see how well they have been getting on and sharing their interests.

“Our partnership with Rainford High School allowed us to break down barriers and offer mutual learning benefits to both generations - and they have formed close friendships and realise they have a lot more in common than they first thought. We are planning to work with the school again in the near future to complete a six-week digital photography course.”

Find out more about Helena Homes at www.helenahomes.co.uk

Tenants Are Top Of The Class

Tenant Mary Arnold shows the children

her new-found Nintendo Wii skills.

Community newsSummer 2011

helena HeADLINeS

Helena HeADLINeS

2

Reach for the sky!As part of an action-packed summer of activities from Helena Homes, young people can reach for the sky by trying their skills on a climbing wall.

Children can try rock climbing on an artificial wall at events being held throughout August.

The climbing wall will be at:

• NannyGoatPark, Fingerpost, on Tuesday, August 2, from 12-4pm.

• ClinkhamWood, Moss Bank, on Tuesday, August 16, from 12-4pm.

Check out What’s On Guide in this edition of Community News to find out about other events in your area.

Music star Lemar and ‘Scooby Snacks’ band the Fun Lovin Criminals will headline a free music festival in St Helens Town Centre this summer.

The ‘50-50’ singer will join Fun Lovin Criminals, X-Factor stars Laura White, Rachel Adedeji and Daniel De Bourg and new boyband Encore at the event on Saturday, August 27.

The music Live gig – hosted by St Helens Council in association with radio City 96.7Fm – will take place in Victoria Square from 2pm to 9pm.

To find out more, log onto: www.visitsthelens.com

Young people in Billinge can race down to London Fields this summer to take to the ramps at a mobile skate park.

The Ramp Riders mobile skate park project is back and will give youngsters the chance to develop their skateboarding, BMX and rollerblading skills in the summer holidays.

Ramp Riders will be held at London Fields every Thursday in August, starting on Thursday, August 4. The sessions take place from 11am to 3pm and are free to attend, but parents must complete a consent form for young people to take part.

There will also be a climbing wall available for youngsters to enjoy on August 4, 11 and 25.

To find out more about events coming up in your area, check out our What’s On Guide.

Music Stars Head For St Helens

Ramp RidersPensioners from Helena Homes sheltered housing schemes are looking picture perfect after finding out about a whole new world of digital delights.

The ‘silver snappers’ from Rainford Road and Martin Avenue joined tenants from other sheltered schemes at a digital photography skills workshop where they learned how to operate cameras and how to edit and enhance photographs using special software.

Having ‘captured’ the basics of digital photography, the tenants plan to share their new-found skills with other people at their sheltered housing schemes.

Nichola Wilkinson, Project Officer for Health and Well-being at Helena, said: “Everyone really enjoyed the digital photography sessions, not only did they have a chance to try their hand at something new, but they also met with other people with similar interests in their area.”

This summer, the tenants will be taking part in a digital photography heritage project to showcase their new-found skills. Recent photos of local places of interest will be digitally superimposed over photos of the same sites taken in years gone by to show just how much St Helens has changed over the years.

Picture Perfect for Pensioners

Summer 2011

3

Crafty Fun This SummerLooking for a crafty way to keep the kids entertained this summer? Helena Homes may have the answer.

As part of a summer programme of activities, Helena will be hosting creative workshops for young people to make artwork out of recycled materials.

The Making Ways With Waste workshops encourage children to use their imagination and create pieces of art from old bottles, paper and other recycled items.

Workshops will take place at:

• Clinkham Wood Park in Moss Bank on Thursday, August 4, from 1pm-4pm.

• Nanny Goat Park in Fingerpost on Wednesday, August 17, from 1pm-4pm.

To find out about activities taking place near you, check out our What’s On Guide, visit our digital TV site, HHTV or go online at www.helenahomes.co.uk

Royal Wedding CelebrationsPensioners from St Helens Town Centre marked the Royal wedding with celebrations fit for a king.

Tenants from Helena Homes’ sheltered housing scheme at Cooper Street - along with other local residents - gathered in their community centre to watch Prince William and Kate Middleton tie the knot in the wedding of the year, before indulging in a Royal wedding breakfast.

Dressing up for the occasion in their fanciest wedding garments and hats, the residents decorated their homes in flags and bunting and enjoyed a celebratory performance from a local singer.

Judith Newton, Scheme Manager at Cooper Street, said: “It was great to see everyone dressed up in their best wedding outfits and hats.

“Everyone had a fantastic time celebrating the Royal wedding together - it was lovely to see members of the whole community together and enjoying the event.”

A group of Helena tenants have become Environmental Inspectors to make sure Helena’s estates are in tip-top condition.

After completing a training programme, the tenants are now able to monitor Helena’s environmental service standards throughout its estates.

The training programme was delivered by Helena Homes staff, including the Green Space Service, and tenants were given information on topics such as equality and diversity, health and safety and what they can expect from their new voluntary role.

Now fully-fledged Environmental Inspectors, the team are looking forward to touring streets and estates and making positive differences to our neighbourhoods – helping Helena to review issues such as the quality of green areas and the standards of communal flat blocks.

Are you interested in becoming an Environmental Inspector and making a positive difference to your neighbourhood?

To get involved or for further information, contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. You can also visit www.helenahomes.co.uk or Helena’s digital TV site through Sky, Virgin Media and Nintendo Wii to check out our Menu of Opportunities, listing all the ways you can get involved and have your say.

Tenants from Cooper Street celebrate

the Royal wedding in style.

TeNANTS BeCome eNVIroNmeNTAL INSpeCTorS

Ramp Riders

Older residents across St Helens are being encouraged to get involved with a number of activities on their doorsteps.

Helena’s sheltered housing schemes host a number of events each week, from bingo and Bollywood sessions to classes on digital photography and using the internet. The events are open to anyone over the age of 50 who live in the area.

One person who has benefited from going along to the activities is St Helens Town Centre resident Beryl Bacon.

Helena staff told Beryl about the opportunities to get involved in activities and meet new friends at the Morley Way community centre, which is part of Helena’s Cooper Street sheltered housing scheme, when she mentioned she was feeling lonely after losing her husband.

Beryl is now a regular visitor at the centre and has lots of new activities to keep her busy.

She said: “I am truly grateful to Helena for putting me in contact with Morley Way community centre - it has given me a whole new lease of life. Losing my husband was a very upsetting and stressful time – especially as this year would have been our diamond wedding anniversary.

“Since I have started going to the centre, I am much happier and more relaxed. I was made to feel very welcome from the minute I arrived, and I love going along to all the parties and day trips.

“I would definitely recommend Helena’s sheltered scheme community centres to anyone else who is feeling lonely - any over 50’s are welcome. It’s really helped me to turn my life around and see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

To find out more about activities at Helena’s sheltered housing schemes, call Nichola Wilkinson at Helena on 01744 63 73 83.

Helena Helps Beryl Find New Friends

Trip Down memory Lane With SaintsPensioners from St Helens Town Centre have been reminiscing about the area’s well-loved rugby club as part of film project.

Tenants from Helena Homes’ sheltered housing schemes at Cooper Street and Martin Avenue have become stars of the screen after being filmed sharing photos, stories and memories of St Helens Rugby League Club - or Saints as it is fondly known - which will feature in a film looking back at the history of the club.

Organised by representatives from Saints through funding from the Heritage Lottery, the film will become part of the club’s memorabilia gallery once they move to their brand new ground on Peasley Cross Lane.

The film will feature Helena’s rugby-loving residents sharing their stories of watching games at the old Knowsley Road ground and their most memorable tackles, tries and team members.

The film will be shown in the heritage centre at Saints’ new ground and will be available to view on the project website: www.knowsleyroad.com

Martin Avenue tenant Norman Lever shares his Saints memories.

‘Try’ ouT SAINTS SporTS eVeNTSYoung people can get fit and active this summer with St Helens’ favourite rugby club, Saints.

Get Fit With Saints sessions will take place in August at Rainford High School and will give children aged eight years and up the chance to try out different sports.

The youngsters can train with qualified coaches to brush up on their passing and dribbling football techniques, sharpen their scrum skills and tweak their tackling.

The sessions will be held on Wednesday, August 10, and Wednesday, August 31, from 12-4pm. Places are limited and must be booked by calling Joyce McDonald on 01744 887306 or Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) Pat O’Keefe and Neil Draper on 0151 777 6054.

The sessions follow similar successful events held earlier this year, when young people took part in football, rugby and other sports.

Graham Ellis, Community Engagement Officer at Helena, said: “The Saints events are always really popular and it is good to see young people getting active and having a go at different sports.

“The views of young people are really important to us, so these events also give us a chance to hear their opinions and feedback about activities and their communities.”

To find out more about activities for young people, check out our What’s On Guide.

4

Helena HeADLINeS

weekly events & activities

5

KICK BoxINg Every Monday, 6pm-7pm, at The Thompson Centre, Ramford Street, Parr. Contact Anne Whittle on 01744 677011 / 07515 191768. Children aged 5-11 years can come along and kick-start their fitness. Cost: £1 per session

LADIeS KICKerCISe CLASS Every Monday, 8.30pm-9.30pm, at Chain Lane Community Centre, Hinckley Road, Laffak. Contact Chain Lane Community Centre on 01744 739043. Lose weight, get fit and learn self-defence techniques. Cost: £4 per session

WomeN’S FITNeSS CLASSeS Every Monday, 6.15pm-7pm, at The Leaf Centre, Chester Lane, Sutton. Contact Glen Tither on 07963 066646. Shape up for summer and tone those legs, bums and tums! Cost: £3 per session.

BruSH STroKeS Every Tuesday, 10am-12pm, at The Leaf Centre, Chester Lane, Sutton. Contact Graham Tomkins on 01744 627892. Explore the wonders of watercolour painting. FREE.

HeLeNA TeNANT Drop-IN (LoCAL ACCeSS poINT)Every Tuesday, 10am-12pm, at Salvation Army, Tickle Avenue, Parr. Contact Colin Goldthorpe on 01744 677014 / 07850 289120 Come along and meet Helena staff and discuss any neighbourhood or housing-related issues.

STArTINg poINT Every Tuesday, 1pm-4pm, at Newton Community Centre, Park South Road, Newton-le-Willows. Contact Laura Johnson on 01744 675682.Pop in and receive free advice, CV tips and information on jobs, education and training.

CHILDreN’S LINe DANCINgEvery Tuesday, 5.30pm-6.30pm, at Derbyshire Hill Family Centre, Derbyshire Hill Road. Contact Eddie McConville on 01744 611373.Children aged 4-18 years can come along and dance the evening away. Cost: £2 per session.

ADuLT DANCe CLASSEvery Tuesday, 6.45pm-8.45pm at Newton Community Centre, Park South Road, Newton-le-Willows. Contact Anne Keen on 01925 224731.Come along for the cha cha chance to learn how to salsa, tango and jive. Cost: £4.75 for every two hour session.

CompuTer CLuB Drop-INEvery Wednesday, 9.30am-12pm, at The Leaf Centre, Chester Lane, Sutton. Contact Graham Tomkins on 01744 627892.Tech lovers can become whizzes of the web at drop-in computer classes. FREE.

IT Drop-IN Every Wednesday, 9.30am-3pm, at Chain Lane Community Centre, Hinckley Road, Laffak. Contact Chain Lane Community Centre on 01744 739043. Become a whizz of the web and scrub up on your computer skills. FREE.

HeLeNA TeNANT Drop-IN (LoCAL ACCeSS poINT) Every Wednesday, 10am-12pm, at FETRA base (Fairbrothers Estate Tenants and Residents Association) Frawley Avenue, Newton. Contact Paul Humphreys on 01744 677951 / 07525 673047

Every Wednesday, 11am-12pm, at All Saints Church, Ellamsbridge Road, Sutton.Contact Lisa Bennison on 01744 833539 / 07515 191729. Come along and meet Helena staff and discuss any neighbourhood issues.

CommuNITy ArT SeSSIoNSEvery Wednesday, 11am-1pm, at The PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372.Come along and paint your very own masterpieces. FREE.

CHILDreN’S CHATTerBox DrAmAEvery Wednesday, 5pm-6pm, at The Leaf Centre, Chester Lane, Sutton. Contact Pam Taylor on 07941 650928.For any little budding actors or actresses aged 5-16 years. Cost: £3 per session.

KICK BoxINg Every Wednesday, 5pm-6pm, at The Thompson Centre, Ramford Street, Parr. Contact Anne Whittle on 01744 677011 / 07515 191768. Young people aged 12-17 years can come along and kick-start their fitness. Cost: £1 per session

BINgoEvery Wednesday, 7pm-9.30pm, at Derbyshire Hill Family Centre, Derbyshire Hill Road. Contact Eddie McConville on 01744 611373.From Kelly's eye, doctor's orders and legs eleven - it's time for eyes down!

ZumBA DANCe Every Thursday, 9.30am-10.15am, at The Leaf Centre, Chester Lane, Sutton. Contact Ceri George on 07921 729271.Dance lovers aged 16 years and over can bop along to the Zumba beat. Cost: £2.50 per session.

Four ACre TeNANTS AND reSIDeNTS ASSoCIATIoN BreAKFAST CLuB AND SHooTS FooD CLuBEvery Thursday, 9.30am-12pm, at The Leaf Centre, Chester Lane, Sutton. Contact Millersdale Office on 01744 833539 for Breakfast Club, or Jennie Williams 07920 768601 for ShootsCatch up with local residents over an early morning coffee, and get your tasty, low cost fruit and veg from the Shoots Food Club.

CoFFee morNINg AND HeLeNA TeNANT Drop-IN (LoCAL ACCeSS poINT)Every Thursday, 10am-12pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Nicola Boardman on 01744 677131 / 07525 673044 or Liz Devine 01744 677130 / 07850 288438.Come along and meet Helena staff and discuss any neighbourhood issues.

HeLeNA TeNANT Drop-IN (LoCAL ACCeSS poINT) Every Thursday, 11am-1pm, at CETRA Office, Pimblett Road, Haydock. Contact Jen Hughes on 01744 677018 / 07545 938855. Come along and meet Helena staff and discuss any neighbourhood or housing-related issues.

THATTo HeATH youTH CLuBEvery Thursday, 6.30pm-9pm, at The PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street.Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372.Young people from Thatto Heath aged 13-19 years can make new friends, take part in arts and crafts and play games at this drop-in session. FREE.

FAmILy FIrST AID CLASSeSEvery Friday, 9.30am-11.30am, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372.Learn how to look after your family and friends and scrub up on your first aid skills. FREE.

LADIeS KICKerCISe CLASS Every Friday until August 26, 7pm-8pm, at Haydock Sports College, Clipsley Lane, Haydock. Contact Alby Bimpson or Jo Astley on 01744 739043. Lose weight, get fit and learn self-defence techniques. Cost: £4 per session

pArr/DerBySHIre HILLEvery Wednesday, 4.30pm-6.30pm, at Bold Miners Neighbourhood Office, Fleet Lane, Parr. Contact Jennie Williams on 07920 768601.

THATTo HeATHEvery Wednesday, 1pm-2.30pm, at Thatto Heath Children’s Centre, Brisbane Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Jennie Williams on 07920 768601.

NeWToN/HAyDoCKEvery Wednesday, 2pm-4pm, at Newton Community Centre, Park South Road, Newton-le-Willows and at CETRA Base, Pimblett Road, Haydock. Contact Jennie Williams, Chair of Shoots, on 07920 768601.

pArrEvery Wednesday, 11.30am-2pm, at SureStart Children’s Centre, Ashtons Green Drive, Parr.

Every Wednesday, 1.30pm-2.55pm, at Salvation Army, Tickle Avenue, Parr. Contact Jennie Williams on 07920 768601.

shoots food clubsGet your tasty, low cost fruit and veg from the Shoots Food Club. £3 per bag of fresh fruit or veg and £1 for six eggs.

ToWN CeNTreEvery Wednesday at:St David Church, Eskdale Avenue, from 11.30am-1pm.PECTRA base, 1 Cross Farm Road, from 1pm-3pm.Parr Mount Court, Fingerpost, from 2pm-3pm.The Children’s Centre, Kentmere Avenue, from 1.30pm-3pm.Central Link Children’s Centre, Westfield Street, from 3pm-4.30pm.Park Farm ACYP Centre, Kentmere Avenue, from 6pm-7pm

Contact Jennie Williams, Chair of Shoots, on 07920 768601.

What’s On GuideSUMMER 2011

Helena HeADLINeS

6

events & activities 25th - 31st July

events & activities for the over 50’s

events & activities 1st - 7th August

events & activities 8th - 14th August

rAmp rIDerS SKATe pArK – 10-WeeK projeCT. Every Monday from July 25, 4pm-7pm, at Mesnes Park, Park Road North. Newton-le-Willows. Contact Joanne Lyon on 01744 677938 / 07850 288404.

Every Tuesday from July 26, 4pm-7pm, at Parr Community Fire Station, Parr Stocks Road, Parr. Contact Colin Goldthorpe on 01744 677014 / 07850 289120 or Anne Whittle 01744 677011 / 07515 191768. Children can saddle up for fun on the ramps. FREE.

CLImBINg WALL Tuesday, July 26, 12pm-4pm, at Mesnes Park, Park North Road, Newton-le-Willows. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 675678 / 07789 921560. Children can put their climbing skills to the test and reach for the sky. FREE.

rAmp rIDerS SKATe pArK – 10-WeeK projeCT.Every Wednesday from July 27, 4pm-7pm, at Nanny Goat Park, Fingerpost. Contact Graham Ellis on 01744 675776 / 07766 245495.

rAmp rIDerS SKATe pArK – 10-WeeK projeCT. Every Thursday from July 28, 4pm-7pm, at Elmfield Close, Thatto Heath. Contact Tanya Roberts on 01744 675687 / 07766 791893. Children can saddle up for fun on the ramps. FREE

mAKINg WAyS WITH WASTe WorKSHop Thursday, July 28, 1pm-4pm at The Duckeries, Derbyshire Hill Road, Parr. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 675678 / 07789 921560. Create your own work of art using recycled materials. FREE.

LINe DANCINg (oVer 50’s) Every Monday, 6pm-7pm, at Trapwood Close Sheltered Scheme, Eccleston. Contact Julie White on 01744 677843 / 07919 110609. Dig out your cowboy boots and stomp to it. FREE.

oVer-50’S FooTBALLEvery Wednesday, 7.30pm-8.30pm, at Derbyshire Hill Family Centre, Derbyshire Hill Road. Contact Eddie McConville on 01744 611373.Come along and perfect your passing and shooting skills. FREE.

SeWINg CLASS (oVer 50’s)Every Thursday, 10am-12pm, at Trapwood Close Sheltered Scheme, Eccleston. Contact Julie White on 01744 677843 / 07919 110609.Scrub up on your stitching skills. FREE.

TAI CHI (oVer 50’s)Every Friday, 10am-11am, at Trapwood Close Sheltered Scheme, Eccleston Contact Julie White on 01744 677843 / 07919 110609.

Thursday, October 6, 11am-1pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Tanya Roberts on 01744 63 73 83.Come along and try out a modern martial art. Cost: £1.50 per class.

mASSAge CLASS (oVer 50’s)Thursday, August 4, 11am-1pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Tanya Roberts on 01744 675687 / 07766791893.Enjoy a relaxing and de-stressing massage. Cost: £1.50 per class.

BoLLyWooD DANCe CLASS (oVer 50’s) Friday, August 5, 1.30pm to 2.30pm, at Trapwood Close Sheltered Scheme, Eccleston. Contact Julie White on 01744 677843 / 07919 110609.

Friday, September 2, 1.30pm to 2.30pm, at Trapwood Close Sheltered Scheme, Eccleston. Contact Julie White on 01744 677843/07919 110609.

Friday, October 7, 1.30pm to 2.30pm, at Trapwood Close Sheltered Scheme, Eccleston. Contact Julie White on 01744 677843 / 07919 110609.Learn how to dance like Bollywood stars. Cost: £2 per class.

TeA DANCe (oVer 50’s)Thursday, September 1, 11am-1pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Tanya Roberts on 01744 63 73 83.Dance the afternoon away at the PERTH Centre. Cost: £1.50 per class.

CoFFee morNINgTuesday, August 2, 10am-12pm at Salvation Army, Tickle Avenue, Parr. Contact Colin Goldthorpe on 01744 677014 / 07850 289120.Pop along for a chat and catch up with local residents in your community. Free tea, coffee, toast and teacakes available.

CLImBINg WALLTuesday, August 2, 12pm-4pm, at Nanny Goat Park, Recreation Street, Fingerpost. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83.

Children can put their climbing skills to the test and reach for the sky. FREE.

HeALTH CHeCK Drop-INThursday, August 4, 10am-12pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372. Give your body an MOT with blood pressure, cholesterol, and BMI (Body Mass Index) tests. FREE.

rAmp rIDerS SKATe pArK AND CLImBINg WALL Thursday, August 4, 11am-3pm, at London Fields, Billinge. Contact Graham Ellis on 01744 675776 / 07766 245495. Children can saddle up for fun on the ramps and reach for the sky on the climbing wall. FREE.

mAKINg WAyS WITH WASTe WorKSHopThursday, August 4, 1pm-4pm at Clinkham Wood Park, Moss Bank. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Create your own work of art using recycled materials. FREE.

SporTS WeeK : oLympI-FIT CHALLeNgeMonday, August 8, 12pm-4pm at Seath Avenue playing fields, Parr. Contact Tanya Roberts or Colin Goldthorpe on 01744 63 73 83.Get active with qualified Saints rugby coaches and have a go at javelin, shot-put and other Olympic sports. FREE.

CLImBINg WALLTuesday, August 9, 12pm-4pm, at Gaskell Park, Fry Street, Parr. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Children can put their climbing skills to the test and reach for the sky. FREE.

geT FIT WITH SAINTSWednesday, August 10, 12pm-4pm at Rainford High School, Higher Lane, Rainford. Contact Joyce McDonald on 01744 887306 or Pat O’Keefe or Neil Draper on 0151 777 6054. Young people can get fit and active this summer with Saints. For children aged eight and above. Places are limited and must be booked. FREE.

SporTS WeeK: SporTS DAyWednesday, August 10, 2pm-4pm at Seath Avenue playing fields, Parr.Contact Tanya Roberts or Colin Goldthorpe on 01744 63 73 83.With egg and spoon racing and a tug of war competition. FREE.

mAKINg WAyS WITH WASTe WorKSHopWednesday, August 10, 1pm-4pm at Harlow Allotments, Harlow Close, Sutton Heath. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Create your own work of art using recycled materials. FREE.

rAmp rIDerS SKATe pArK AND CLImBINg WALL Thursday, August 11, 11am-3pm, at London Fields, Billinge. Contact Graham Ellis on 01744 63 73 83. Children can saddle up for fun on the ramps and reach for the sky on the climbing wall. FREE.

mAKINg WAyS WITH WASTe WorKSHopThursday, August 11, 1pm-4pm at Gaskell Park, Fry Street, Parr. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Create your own work of art using recycled materials. FREE.

SporTS WeeK: CLImBINg WALLFriday, August 12, 2pm-4pm at Seath Avenue playing fields. Contact Tanya Roberts or Colin Goldthorpe on 01744 63 73 83.Reach for the stars and climb to new heights on the climbing wall. FREE.

Summer 2011

events & activities 22nd - 31st August

7

events & activities 15th - 21st August

FeTrA (FAIRBROTHERS ESTATE TENANT AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION) greeN FINgerSMonday, August 15, 10am-2pm at FETRA base, Frawley avenue, Newton. Contact Jo Lyon on 01744 63 73 83.Find out how to grow and sow plants, and how to look after your garden. FREE.

CLImBINg WALLMonday, August 15, 12pm-4pm, at Clinkham Wood Park, Moss Bank. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Children can put their climbing skills to the test and reach for the sky. FREE.

FeTrA (FAIRBROTHERS ESTATE TENANT AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION) pLANT AND ANImAL ADApTATIoNSTuesday, August 16, 10am-5pm, at FETRA base, Frawley avenue, Newton. Contact Jo Lyon on 01744 63 73 83.Learn all about plants and wildlife, and visit our feathery, fluffy and furry friends at the animobile and living jungle (1-3pm). FREE.

FINTrA FeSTIVAL (FINGERPOST TENANTS AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION)Wednesday, August 17, 11am-4pm at Nanny Goat Park, Recreation Street, Fingerpost.A fun day for all the family, FINTRA festival will include face painting, arts and crafts, tombolas and other games.

FeTrA (FAIRBROTHERS ESTATE TENANT AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION) pLANTS AND THe pLANeTWednesday, August 17, 10am-2pm at FETRA base, Frawley Avenue, Newton. Contact Jo Lyon on 01744 63 73 83.Find out how plants grow and what they need to develop. FREE.

BruNSWICK eSTATe FuN DAy Wednesday, August 17, 12pm at Athol Close, Newton-le-Willows. Contact Paula Ashworth on 01744 63 73 83. A fun day for all the family! FREE.

CLImBINg WALLWednesday, August 17, 12pm-4pm, at Harlow Allotments, Harlow Close, Sutton Heath. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Children can put their climbing skills to the test and reach for the sky. FREE.

mAKINg WAyS WITH WASTe WorKSHopWednesday, August 17, 1pm-4pm at Nanny Goat Park, Recreation Street, Fingerpost. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Create your own work of art using recycled materials. FREE.

HeALTH CHeCK Drop-INThursday, August 18, 10am-12pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372.Give your body an MOT with blood pressure, cholesterol, and BMI (Body Mass Index) tests. FREE.

FeTrA (FAIRBROTHERS ESTATE TENANT AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION) WILLoW ArTThursday, August 18, 10am-5pm at FETRA base, Frawley avenue, Newton. Contact Jo Lyon on 01744 63 73 83.Design a piece of artwork for your estate using natural and recycled materials. FREE.

FeTrA (FAIRBROTHERS ESTATE TENANT AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION) HABITATSFriday, August 19, 10am-5pm at FETRA base, Frawley Avenue, Newton. Contact Jo Lyon on 01744 63 73 83.Find out about the different kinds of plants, animals and their environment, and learn how to care for local wildlife. FREE

CLImBINg WALLFriday, August 19, 12pm-4pm, at Millersdale Office. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Children can put their climbing skills to the test and reach for the sky. FREE.

CeTrAN (COMMON ESTATE TENANTS AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION) FuN DAySaturday, August 20, 11am-4pm at CETRAN base, Sturgess Street, Newton-le-Willows. Contact Jo Lyon on 01744 63 73 83A family fun day bursting with games, crafts and activities. FREE.

QueeNSLAND IN BLoom FAmILy FuN DAyMonday, August 22, 1pm- 4pm at Pocket Plots site, off Queensland Avenue, Thatto Heath. Contact Tanya Roberts on 01744 63 73 83.With Acorn Farm petting zoo, Jimbo's magic show, face painting, planting and mosaic workshops. FREE.

CLImBINg WALLTuesday, August 23, 12pm-4pm, at The Duckeries, Derbyshire Hill Road, Parr. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Children can put their climbing skills to the test and reach for the sky. FREE.

rAmp rIDerS SKATe pArK AND CLImBINg WALL Thursday, August 25, 11am-3pm, at London Fields, Billinge. Contact Graham Ellis on 01744 63 73 83. Children can saddle up for fun on the ramps and reach for the sky on the climbing wall. FREE.

mAKINg WAyS WITH WASTe WorKSHopThursday, August 25, 1pm-4pm at Mesnes Park, Park Road North, Newton-le-Willows. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83. Create your own work of art using recycled materials. FREE.

mAKINg WAyS WITH WASTe WorKSHopFriday, August 26, 1pm-4pm at Millersdale Office, Millersdale. Contact Jo McMahon on 01744 63 73 83.Create your own work of art using recycled materials. FREE.

FIVeS FooTBALLFriday, August 26, 6pm – 8pm, at Fives Sport Centre, Ravenhead Road. Contact Lisa Bennison on 01744 833539 / 07515 191729Young people from the Sutton and New Street area can perfect their passing and dribbling skills. Transport Provided. FREE.

muSIC LIVe FeSTIVALSaturday, August 27, 2pm-6pm at Victoria Square, St Helens Town Centre. Call 01744 456000.Performances from Lemar, Fun Lovin' Criminals and X-Factor contestants Laura White, Rachel Adedeji and Daniel De Bourg. FREE.

geT FIT WITH SAINTSWednesday, August 31, 12pm-4pm at Rainford High School, Higher Lane, Rainford. Contact Joyce McDonald on 01744 887306.Young people can get fit and active this summer with Saints. For children aged eight and above. Places are limited and must be booked. FREE.

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JulyTuesday, July 26, 10am for North Ashton estate, meeting in Birch Grove. Contact Tony O’Brien on 01744 677053 / 07850 517680.

Tuesday, July 26, 10am. Malvern Road Estate, meeting at Broad Oak Primary School, Brunswick Street. Contact Brian Middlehurst on 01744 677004 / 07515 191766.

Thursday, July 28, 10am. Gillars Green Estate, meeting at Gillars Green shops. Contact Jennifer Morris on 01744 675672 / 07515 191764.

Thursday, July 28, 1.30pm. Four Acre estate, meeting at Millersdale Office. Contact Val Guard on 01744 833539 / 07810 831556.

AUGUSTMonday, August 1, 11am. Harlow/Hempstead Estate, meeting at The PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Nicola Boardman on 01744 677131 / 07525 673044.

Tuesday, August 2, 10am. Portico Estate, meeting at Upland Road shops. Contact Allan Worthington on 01744 677129 / 07515 191735.

Tuesday, August 2, 11am. Windlehurst Estate, meeting at the junction at Princess Avenue and Gamble Avenue. Contact John Thompson on 01744 671406 / 07515 191731.

Wednesday, August 3, 10am. Stocks Estate, meeting at Evelyn Avenue, Parr. Contact Anne Whittle on 01744 677011 / 07515 191768.

Wednesday, August 3, 11am. Gerards Bridge Estate, meeting at the junction at Gerrards Bridge/Crab Street. Contact John Thompson on 01744 671406 / 07515 191731.

Wednesday, August 10, 11amFingerpost estate, meeting at Holy Trinity Church car park. Contact Maureen Wilson on 01744 677950 / 07515 191770

Wednesday, August 10, 10amFairbrothers estate, meeting at FETRA base (Fairbrothers estate tenants and residents association) Frawley Avenue, Newton. Contact Paul Humphreys on 01744 677951 / 07525 673047

Tuesday, August 16, 1pm. Westfield Estate, meeting in Lewis Street. Contact Sharon Williams on 01744 677015 / 07515 191772.

Wednesday, August 17, 10am. Greenbank Estate, meeting in Liverpool Road. Contact Sharon Williams on 01744 677015 / 07515 191772.

Wednesday, August 17, 10am. Gloucester Street Estate, meeting at Allanson Street School, Gaskell Street. Contact Anne Whittle on 01744 677011 / 07515 191768.

Wednesday, August 17, 11am. Cherry Tree Drive/Swan Avenue Estate, meeting at Barlow Grove. Contact Paul Reddington on 01744 677144 / 07515 191734.

Thursday, August 18, 10am. Appleton Road Estate, meeting at Cross Farm Road. Contact Sharon Williams on 01744 677015 / 07515 191772.

Tuesday, August 23, 10am. Elizabeth Road Estate, meeting at Sherlock Avenue shops, Haydock. Contact Jen Hughes on 01744 677018 / 07545 938855.

Thursday, August 25, 10.30am. Thatto Heath area, meeting at Helena West, Thatto Heath Road. Contact Liz Devine on 01744 677130 / 07850 288438.

SEPTEMBERMonday, September 5, 11am. Queensland Estate, meeting at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Liz Devine on 01744 677130 / 07850 288438.

Monday, September 5, 11am. Basildon Estate, meeting at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Nicola Boardman on 01744 677131/07525 673044.

Thursday, September 8, 10am. Tickle Avenue Estate, meeting at Salvation Army, Tickle Avenue, Parr. Contact Colin Goldthorpe on 01744 677014 / 07850 289120.

Tuesday, September 13, 1pm. Westfield Estate, meeting in Lewis Street, Town Centre. Contact Sharon Williams on 01744 677015 / 07515 191772

Wednesday, September 14, 10am. Fairbrothers Estate, meeting at FETRA base (Fairbrothers Estate Tenants and Residents Association) Frawley Avenue, Newton. Contact Paul Humphreys on 01744 677951 / 07525 673047.

Wednesday, September 14, 10.30am. Hard Lane Estate, meeting at Hard Lane shops. Contact Helen Molyneux on 01744 677055 / 07850 288402.

Thursday, September 15, 10.30am. Blackbrook Estate, meeting at Bidston Avenue Gardens, Blackbrook. Contact Jen Hughes on 01744 677018 / 07545 938855.

Monday, September 19, 10am. Central Drive Estate, meeting at Cumberland Crescent, Haydock. Contact Jen Hughes on 01744 677018 / 07545 938855.

Tuesday, September 20, 10am. The Avenues, meeting at Moss Lodge, Sexton Avenue, Parr. Contact Brian Middlehurst on 01744 677004 / 07515 191766.

Tuesday, September 20, 10am. North Ashton Estate, meeting at Birch Grove. Contact Tony O’Brien on 01744 677053 / 07850 517680.

Wednesday, September 21, 10am. Greenbank Estate, meeting at Liverpool Road. Contact Sharon Williams on 01744 677015 / 07515 191772.

Wednesday, September 21, 10am. Gloucester Street Estate, meeting at Allanson Street School, Gaskell Street, Parr. Contact Anne Whittle on 01744 677011 / 07515 191768.

Wednesday, September 21, 10am. Manor Road Estate, meeting at the corner of Penny Lane and Manor Road, Haydock. Contact Jen Hughes on 01744 677018 / 07545 938855.

Wednesday, September 21, 11am. Mount Pleasant Avenue Estate, meeting at Moore Avenue, Parr. Contact Paul Reddington on 01744 677144 / 07515 191734.

Wednesday, September 21, 1.30pm. Ashtons Green Drive estate, meeting at Ashtons Green shops, Parr. Contact Steven Moore on 01744 677135 / 07850 288436.

Thursday, September 22, 10am. Appleton Road Estate, meeting at Cross Farm Road. Contact Sharon Williams on 01744 677015 / 07515 191772.

Thursday, September 22, 10.30am. Rainford Estate, meeting on Springfield car park, Rainford. Contact Helen Molyneux on 01744 677055 / 07850 288402.

Tuesday, September 27, 10am. Malvern Road Estate, meeting at Broad Oak Primary School, Brunswick Street, Parr. Contact Brian Middlehurst on 01744 677004 / 07515 191766.

Thursday, September 29, 10am. Gillars Green Estate, meeting at Gillars Green Shops, Eccleston. Contact Jennifer Morris on 01744 675672 / 07515 191764.

Thursday, September 29, 1.30pm. Four Acre Estate, meeting at Millersdale Office. Contact Val Guard on 01744 833539 / 07810 831556.

events & activities in september & October

estate walkabout’s Come along and share your views about your estate.

HeALTH CHeCK Drop-INThursday, September 1, 10am-12pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372. Give your body an MOT with blood pressure, cholesterol, and BMI (Body Mass Index) tests. FREE.

porTICo CommuNITy group meeTINgTuesday, September 6, 10am, at St Matthews Church, St Matthews Grove, Portico. Contact Allan Worthington on 01744 677129 / 07515 191735.Local residents are invited to come along and support your neighbourhood.

CoFFee morNINgTuesday, September 6, 10am-12pm at Salvation Army, Tickle Avenue, Parr. Contact Colin Goldthorpe on 01744 63 73 83.Pop along for a chat and catch up with local residents in your community. Free tea, coffee, toast and teacakes available.

HeALTH CHeCK Drop-IN Thursday, September 15, 10am-12pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372. Give your body an MOT with blood pressure, cholesterol, and BMI (Body Mass Index) tests. FREE.

FIVeS FooTBALLFriday, September 23, 6pm- 8pm, at Fives Sport Centre, Ravenhead Road, Town Centre. Contact Lisa Bennison on 01744 63 73 83.Young people from the Sutton and New Street area can perfect their passing and dribbling skills. Transport Provided.

HeALTH CHeCK Drop-IN Thursday, September 29, 10am-12pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372.Give your body an MOT with blood pressure, cholesterol, and BMI (Body Mass Index) tests. FREE.

CoFFee morNINgTuesday, October 4, 10am-12pm at Salvation Army, Tickle Avenue, Parr. Contact Colin Goldthorpe on 01744 63 73 83.Pop along for a chat and catch up with local residents in your community. Free tea, coffee, toast and teacakes available.

HeALTH CHeCK Drop-INThursday, October 6, 10am-12pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372.

Thursday, October 20, 10am-12pm, at the PERTH Centre, Dunedin Street, Thatto Heath. Contact Mel Mulcahy on 01744 673372.Give your body an MOT with blood pressure, cholesterol, and BMI (Body Mass Index) tests. FREE.

FIVeS FooTBALLFriday, October 14, 6pm- 8pm, at Fives Sport Centre, Ravenhead Road, Town Centre. Contact Lisa Bennison on 01744 63 73 83.Young people from the Sutton and New Street area can perfect their passing and dribbling skills. Transport Provided.

There are six award categories this year:

green Fingers Award - For those who work to improve the environment.

Helping Hand Award - For those who provide care for others.

Bright young Star Award – For young people who are trying to achieve.

reaching out Award – For those who work voluntarily for the benefit of their community.

respect your Neighbourhood Award - For those who are working to keep their neighbourhoods safe and peaceful.

Together We Can Award – For community groups who are making a difference in their neighbourhoods.

Nora Wade, Head of Neighbourhood Services for Helena, said: “There are so many people in our communities who really are going the extra mile and giving up their time to improve their neighbourhoods and our Making A Difference Awards are a great way to celebrate that.

“The annual awards event is always popular with local people nominating their local unsung heroes to get some recognition for the excellent work that they are doing and I’m sure this year won’t be any different.

“If you know an individual or group in your area who you think deserves an award for their efforts in making a difference where you live, please nominate them for the Making A Difference Awards.”

The closing date for nominations is Friday, August 12. All entries must be completed on an official Making A Difference entry form, available to download at www.helenahomes.co.uk

Alternatively you can request a form by calling Graham Ellis on 01744 63 73 83.

Nominate Your Local HeroesHelena Homes has launched its annual search for dedicated residents across St Helens who make a different in their communities.

Nominations are now open for the Making A Difference Awards, which each year recognises individuals or community groups who have gone the extra mile to improve their neighbourhoods.

Jennie Williams, from Moss Bank, won the Reaching Out Award

at the 2010 event.

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Summer 2011

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Come Along to Helena AGMDoyouwanttofindoutmoreaboutwhatHelenaPartnershipshasbeendoingoverthelastyear?

Following the success of Helena’s first ‘open’ Annual General Meeting (AGM) last year, Helena is set to host an AGM for tenants to come along, meet Helena’s Board members and senior staff and find out key information about activity over the last year.

The AGM will be held on Thursday, September 8, starting at 6pm at St Helens Chamber of Commerce and will give those who attend the chance to find out more about Helena’s performance, successes, financial matters and plans for the forthcoming year.

Last year was the first time that Helena opened up the AGM so that tenants involved in community groups could go along, and this year further builds on that success by making the event open to any tenants, whether involved in a community group or not. In the future tenants will be able to attend Helena’s Board meetings.

Places are limited at the AGM, so if you would like to attend you must register your interest with Helena by Friday, August 19. You will be asked to complete a form and people will be allocated a place at the event on a first come-first served basis.

To find out more, or to register your interest, call Kath Taylor on 01744 63 73 83 or email onecall@helenapartnerships.co.uk

You can get advice and support getting back into work and training thanks to a partnership project between re:new St Helens and Starting Point.

The neighbourhood management scheme has teamed up with employment specialists Starting Point to give people from Four Acre, Thatto Heath, Parr and Fingerpost information on job opportunities, advice on CV writing and interview skills, and support accessing training.

To find out more, call Laura Johnson on 01744 675682.

Did You K now?

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It’s full steam ahead now for the opening of a brand new head office for Helena Partnerships in St Helens Town Centre later this year.

We will be leasing Helena Central, which will act as the main centre for staff, as well as being a one stop shop for tenants, offering a space for community use and the opportunity to drop in for advice and services.

The decision for Helena to have a main office in the Town Centre was in response to feedback from you – our customers – when you said you wanted a more accessible office in the middle of town.

Helena Central, based on Corporation Street, is due to open in autumn and will create an easily-accessible office for tenants to visit. It will also include a meeting space for local people and organisations and will be available for community and corporate events.

Steve Moore, Helena’s Director of Assets and Development, said: “We are really looking forward to the move to Helena Central as part of our commitment to tenants to have a town centre location.

“The building looks fantastic and Helena staff have been fully involved in developing plans for Helena Central.

“We look forward to welcoming tenants to our new head office when we open our doors and hope that you will also take advantage of the community meeting space.”

We will write to all tenants informing you formally of our new address details and confirmation of the opening date. You will also see adverts about Helena Central in the local papers. You can keep up to date by visiting our website: www.helenapartnerships.co.uk

All Set For Green Base OpeningHelena’s brand new ‘green’ office and community facility, The Green Base, will open its doors this August.

The Green Base, at Queensland Place in Thatto Heath, will provide a home for Helena’s Green Space Service, as well as providing a community venue for people to take part in events or find out more about plants, wildlife and recycling.

Helena tenants, along with other members of the community, will also be able to get involved with creating gardens at the Green Base and hold meetings to talk about green issues at the venue.

A programme of events is planned for people of all ages to get involved in throughout the year, from planting activities to recycling tips.

The Green Base will open in August, following by an official opening

event in the autumn.

Report Repairs on your TV!Did you know that you can report repairs or anti-social behaviour through your television?

If you have Sky or Virgin Media, you can use Helena’s digital TV channel, HHTV, to request repairs, report anti-social behaviour, request documents or share your views by just pressing a few buttons on your remote control.

Since it was launched in December 2010, HHTV has attracted more than 44,000 viewings on the site with people finding out about events in their area, affordable home ownership and the latest Helena news.

So, check it out today…

• Sky viewers: Go to the Community Channel (number 539); press the red button; enter Quick Code 4488.

• Virgin viewers: Press ‘home’ button; choose ‘interactive’; click on ‘news & info’; click on ‘Looking Local’; enter Quick Code 4488.

• To access through Nintendo Wii or internet-enabled mobile phones, type this into your browser: http://www.lookinglocal.gov.uk/helena

All Set For Helena Central

To find out more, visit www.helenahomes.co.uk

An artists’ impression of the community resource area.

3,870 new roofs

10,900 new windows

10,200 new central heating systems

7,980 new bathrooms

8,600 new fitted kitchens

When Helena was launched in 2002, we made you a promise that we would improve your homes and make sure that they met strict government guidelines.

These guidelines were called the Decent Homes Standards and we promised that we would make sure all our properties met them by December 2010.

We hit our target and made even more improvements to our properties than we initially set out to do, so now we have spent time talking to you and planning what we will do over the next 10 years.

Last year, we held a number of consultation events where we asked you what your experience has been like, how we could have done better and what we should do next. Listening to your feedback, it was clear that the energy efficiency of your property was important and that a key focus over the next 10 years should be aimed at minimising the amount of energy you use.

In response to this, we have now launched our 10-year Decent Homes Plus programme which will see £25 million invested in your homes focusing on using green technology and liveability.

The green technology aspect will focus on issues such as improving the energy efficiency of homes by upgrading insulation, installing specialist solar panels to generate electricity and introducing recycling facilities. A scheme to make homes on the Four Acre Estate more energy efficient by adding external wall insulation to reduce heat loss will begin this year.

The liveability part of the programme will focus on making sure Helena properties meet the needs of those living in them, addressing issues you raised about outhouses, fencing works and standards in accommodation for older people. In relation to this, we have started work on a scheme to improve the appearance of communal areas in all our flat blocks, which has been very successful so far.

Feedback from you – our customers – is hugely important to us and we want to make sure we are delivering services which you want and need. We also want to work with you to make sure that any works to improve your home causes you minimum disruption and is to a high standard, so we want you to share your views.

If you want to find out more about Helena’s Decent Homes Plus scheme, call us on 01744 63 73 83 or visit www.helenahomes.co.uk

Since 2002, we have improved your homes with over:

Summer 2011

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Helena HeADLINeS

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When Helena Homes made a number of promises to tenants in 2002, we vowed to keep them – and we did. So, in 2010, we made some more promises to address the issues that you said mattered most over the next five years.

Here is how we are getting on…

We said... We would consult you about your priorities.

We will... Ask you for your views about Helena services in September this year, including what you think about the quality of your home and neighbourhood. We undertake the STATUS survey at least every three years with randomly selected tenants. Those picked to take part will receive a survey in the post sent to their home. It is really important that you share your views as they help us to understand how well you think we are doing, what improvements you would like to see and what your priorities are.

Don’t forget, you can also share your views with us in a number of other ways, listed in our Menu of Opportunities. You can get a copy by calling us on 01744 63 73 83 or by visiting our website www.helenahomes.co.uk. You can also find out more by visiting HHTV, our digital TV site.

We said... We would do more to help young people stay out of trouble.

We did... We have a calendar of events for young people to take part in throughout the summer holidays, including skate parks, climbing walls and craft events. Find a full list of activities in the What’s On Guide included in this newsletter.

We said... We would improve the safety and security of our homes and make sure that those which are specifically for older people are modern and meet their needs in the future.

We did... Invest more than £1 million with our partners from the local authority from April 2010-March 2011 to make adaptations to our properties for tenants which need extra support in their homes, which included helping people so they can continue to live independently. We will continue to invest in properties in this way through our Decent Homes Plus programme, which you can find more about on page 11. If you think you may need some changes made to your home to support you to live there, please call us on 01744 63 73 83.

Get Involved with HelenaHelena Homes has launched a new website for you to find out more about scrutinising our services.

The website – www.excellenceathelena.co.uk – offers Helena’s 20,000-plus tenants to review performance and share your views about services and where we can make improvements.

Helena is one of just 10 housing associations in the country to be appointed as a ‘champion’ by a national tenant body for our work in encouraging tenants to have their say.

The website is a good way for Helena to engage with tenants and encourage them to get involved in sharing their views and scrutinising services in a way that suits them. Earlier this year Helena launched a ‘Menu of Opportunities’ giving tenants the chance to select a way to have their say based on the level of involvement and the time taken from 13 options.

Sandra Binns, Chair of Helena’s Customer Excellence Panel, said: “Helena is very supportive of tenants and offers a wide variety of ways for people to get involved and have their say on services in a way that suits us – the customers.

“I’m really excited about the new website as it gives people the chance to get details about performance and scrutiny options in one place, reinforcing Helena’s commitment to be an open and transparent company which develops using customer feedback.”

To find out more, visit www.excellenceathelena.co.uk

Keeping our Promises

Phone: 01744 63 73 83

Post: Helena Homes, 3rd Floor, Court Building, Alexandra Park, Prescot Road, St Helens, WA10 3TT

Web: www.helenahomes.co.uk

Email: onecall@helenapartnerships.co.uk

Digital TV: Sky viewers: Go to the Community Channel (number 539); press the red button; enter Quick Code 4488.

Virgin viewers: Press ‘home’ button; choose ‘interactive’; click on ‘news & info’; click on ‘Looking Local’; enter Quick Code 4488.

To access through Nintendo Wii or internet-enabled mobile phones, type this into your browser: http://www.lookinglocal.gov.uk/helena

Contact us