hometalk spring 2015

Soha Housing’s residents’ magazine | Spring 2015

Page 06 Page 09

Discounts to refreshyour home. Whatever the project, big or small, start every job with great discounts at your local Dulux Decorator Centre.

Get huge savings and more including:

• Savings across the range• Top branded paints and accessories• Discounts available in-store and online• 1,000’s of paint colours and wallcoverings• Friendly, helpful staff• And don’t forget, delivery is FREE!†

Remember to always show your staff cardor proof of tenancy to receive your discount.

For your nearest store call 0845 850 2200or visit www.duluxdecoratorcentre.co.uk/housing/sohaor to place your order call 0845 602 3128.

@DuluxRefresh duluxdecoratorcentre dulux-refresh

*Discount is off shelf edge price exc. VAT. Not available on account terms, cash sales only.Products must be paid for at time of purchase. Not to be used in conjunction with any otheroffers or promotions. Exclusions apply. See in-store for details. †Terms and conditions apply.Order before 9.30am for same day delivery. For online ordering only - free delivery to accountholders and to non account holders on orders over £50.

Easter Extravaganza

Spring into online fun

Well supported!

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR

UNIVERSAL CREDIT?

Contact usThe Editor, Hometalk magazine, Soha Housing, Royal Scot House, 99 Station Road, Didcot OX11 7NN

Call 01235 515900 or free from a landline on 0800 014 15 45 Email [email protected]

Join the conversation on Twitter @SohaHousing Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SohaHousing

Sub-editor: Sue Grief of Write Away! Designed by: Toast Design www.toastdesign.co.uk

Print managed by:

Audio services by Transcriptions Direct www.transcriptionsdirect.co.uk

Hometalk is also available in large print, audio and electronic formats. If you would like to receive a different version, or unsubscribe from receiving Hometalk altogether, please email [email protected] or call us on the telephone number above.

www.soha.co.uk www.soha.co.uk02 03

How we’re doing Welcome to Hometalk

Thanks for all the feedback about the new look for Hometalk; we’re really pleased you like it as much as we do. In this issue we’re trying out a new way of showing you how we’re doing, which we hope you’ll find simpler to understand than before. Let us know if you think it works. What it shows is that we’ve set ourselves some stretching targets, but are performing very well.

In this edition we’re talking about the introduction of Universal Credit in our area (do you know if you’ll be affected? Read our guide on pages 6 and 7); what our corporate plan actually means

for you, our tenants (page 8); and launching our 2015 gardening competition (page 13). I’m looking forward to seeing all the amazing entries and getting some inspiration.

We’ve also got some excellent suggestions for Easter holiday family fun (page 4). Whether you’re planning your holidays to be action-packed or relaxing, best wishes from all at Soha for the Easter break.

Richard Peacock, Chief Executive

Overall tenant satisfaction with Soha’s services

Arrears for current tenants

We are actually currently on track to meet our target. The figure shown is misleading as a result of the dates on which we receive Direct Debit and Housing Benefit payments.

Emergency repairs completed on time

Urgent repairs completed on time

Routine repairs completed on time

Average re-let time for all homes

New homes built or acquired

Satisfaction

Performance Key: Achieved | Nearly Achieved | Not Achieved

Our performance to 31 December 2014

Repairs Arrears

Tenants satisfied that Soha listens to their views and acts upon them

In this issue...

P6 Are you prepared for Universal Credit?

P4 Easter Extravaganza

P5 Five reasons to give volunteering a go

P9 Spring into online fun

P10 Well supported!

P8 What can you expect from Soha this year?

P14 Diary dates

P12 DigIt with Damien

P11 Out and about with Soha

Actual: 525

Target: 450

99.7% Target: 99%

4%1.8%

99.5% Target: 99%

Actual: 88%

Actual: 76%

Target: 92%

Target: 78%

97.7% Target: 99%

Target: 2.8 Weeks

Actual: 3.3 Weeks

Actual:Actual:Actual:Actual:

Target:

Hometalk | Soha Housing’s residents’ magazine | Spring 2015 Hometalk | Soha Housing’s residents’ magazine | Spring 2015

Contact usThe Editor, Hometalk magazine, Soha Housing, Royal Scot House, 99 Station Road, Didcot OX11 7NN

Call 01235 515900 or free from a landline on 0800 014 15 45 Email [email protected]

Join the conversation on Twitter @SohaHousing Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SohaHousing

Sub-editor: Sue Grief of Write Away! Designed by: Toast Design www.toastdesign.co.uk

Print managed by:

Audio services by Transcriptions Direct www.transcriptionsdirect.co.uk

Hometalk is also available in large print, audio and electronic formats. If you would like to receive a different version, or unsubscribe from receiving Hometalk altogether, please email [email protected] or call us on the telephone number above.

How we’re doing Welcome to Hometalk

Thanks for all the feedback about the new look for Hometalk; we’re really pleased you like it as much as we do. In this issue we’re trying out a new way of showing you how we’re doing, which we hope you’ll find simpler to understand than before. Let us know if you think it works. What it shows is that we’ve set ourselves some stretching targets, but are performing very well.

In this edition we’re talking about the introduction of Universal Credit in our area (do you know if you’ll be affected? Read our guide on pages 6 and 7); what our corporate plan actually means

for you, our tenants (page 8); and launching our 2015 gardening competition (page 13). I’m looking forward to seeing all the amazing entries and getting some inspiration.

We’ve also got some excellent suggestions for Easter holiday family fun (page 4). Whether you’re planning your holidays to be action-packed or relaxing, best wishes from all at Soha for the Easter break.

Richard Peacock, Chief Executive

Overall tenant satisfaction with Soha’s services

Arrears for current tenants

We are actually currently on track to meet our target. The figure shown is misleading as a result of the dates on which we receive Direct Debit and Housing Benefit payments.

Emergency repairs completed on time

Urgent repairs completed on time

Routine repairs completed on time

Average re-let time for all homes

New homes built or acquired

Satisfaction

Performance Key: Achieved | Nearly Achieved | Not Achieved

Our performance to 31 December 2014

Repairs Arrears

Tenants satisfied that Soha listens to their views and acts upon them

In this issue...

P6 Are you prepared for Universal Credit?

P4 Easter Extravaganza

P5 Five reasons to give volunteering a go

P9 Spring into online fun

P10 Well supported!

P8 What can you expect from Soha this year?

P14 Diary dates

P12 DigIt with Damien

P11 Out and about with Soha

Actual: 525

Target: 450

99.7% Target: 99%

4%1.8%

99.5% Target: 99%

Actual: 88%

Actual: 76%

Target: 92%

Target: 78%

97.7% Target: 99%

Target: 2.8 Weeks

Actual: 3.3 Weeks

Actual:Actual:Actual:Actual:

Target:

THE GREAT OUTDOORS!

Never mind the April showers! Get your wellies on and head out with the kids – a bit of mud just adds to the fun!

Warburg Nature Reserve, near Henley-on-Thames

www.bbowt.org.uk/reserves/warburg-nature-reserve

A visitor centre, bird hides and picnic area all make Warburg Nature Reserve a great place to bring your family. Pick up a special backpack that includes games, trail notes and spotter sheets from the visitor centre.

Millets Farm Centre

www.milletsfarmcentre.com

The free farm zoo, park and picnic space make Millets a firm family favourite. Take the FREE courtesy bus service from Abingdon and Wantage on a Tuesday (check their website or call 01865 392200 for details).

Cuttlebrook Nature Reserve, West Thame, near the Southern Road Recreation Ground

www.cuttlebrook.org.uk

Pack a picnic and drop into the family area at Cuttlebrook, then take your time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Island Farm Donkey Sanctuary, Brightwell-Cum-Sotwell

www.donkeyrescue.co.uk

The visitors’ centre and café are usually open 11am-4pm on weekends and school holidays; when the weather is fair visitors are welcome to walk along to the fields from where you’ll be able to see a lot of donkeys, some at close quarters!

Breathtaking Birds

Tues 7 April – Thurs 9 April 1pm-4pm

Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3PW

www.ox.ac.uk/event/breathtaking-birds

Try a bird song quiz and make a Red Kite mobile!

GET ONLINE!

You can use the Internet for free at Oxfordshire libraries and in the reception at Soha’s offices. We can even offer you a free lesson if you’re not sure where to start!

Check out these pages for more ideas of free and discount family fun for the school holidays:

www.naturedetectives.org.uk

www.netmums.com/activities/free-family-fun

www.getoxfordshireactive.org/southoxfordshire

STOP PRESS…

Calling all young artists! Soha has just launched an art competition for children and young people on the subject of Home. Check our Facebook page or call us for more information.

Make the most of the Easter holidays with our top tips for free family trips. Watch out for more ideas on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/SohaHousing) and share your own to win a prize! We’ll also be announcing our own free family activities on Facebook.

Five01 04

We all know that volunteering really can make things better: whether visiting someone who is lonely, providing transport, cooking skills or getting involved with Soha, you really can make a difference. But did you know that volunteering can also be great for you?

GET CRAFTY

Museums and libraries are great places to look out for free craft activities.

Drop in and Doodle: Phasmagorical Plasma

Thursday 2 April – Sunday 12 April 2015, 10am – 4pm

Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot

www.cornerstone-arts.org

Create a swirling plasma artwork after investigating the ‘Making a Sun Earth’ exhibition

to give volunteering a go

IT CAN MAKE YOU HAPPIER

Research shows that giving our time, energy and kindness to others not only helps them, but is great for our own well-being and happiness.

MAKE FRIENDS

Half of people over-60 say they make new friends and keep active by volunteering.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

The training and support available to volunteers means you could surprise yourself with new skills, knowledge and achievements.

STAY WELL

Many voluntary activities cover your expenses, making it easier to get out and about. Keeping active can be great for your mental and physical health. A quarter of volunteers aged 35-44 say they do it to improve their health.

GET THAT JOB!

Tenants wanting to get back into work or find a better job will often tell you that doing a spot of volunteering makes all the difference. A survey of the UK’s leading businesses showed that 73% said they’d employ someone who’s volunteered in preference to someone who hasn’t.

“Since I started volunteering, I’ve gone from being the quiet mouse in the corner to someone who’s talked to an audience of hundreds. I never would’ve thought that possible.”Carole, Soha tenant

“People have in the past said to me they don’t understand why I volunteer and that I could just sit at home and no-one would blame me. But I’d be a lot worse off – and possibly in need of greater medical and other support – if I did that. Because that’s the difference volunteering makes.” Emma, Soha tenant and CAB volunteer www.writerinawheelchair.co.uk

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

Here are some online volunteering websites with opportunities throughout the country:

www.do-it.org

www.timebank.org.uk

www.ocva.org.uk/volunteer-centre (local opportunities in Oxfordshire)

www.swindonvolunteers.org.uk (local opportunities in Swindon)

reasons

Soha VOLUNTEERSWe’re working with Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action (OCVA) to train Soha tenants to become community ambassadors who can help find other people the voluntary role they want. If you want to know more, please email [email protected] or call us.

YOU SAID, WE DID You said Soha should play a bigger role in local communities. Over the last two years, we’ve supported initiatives including cookery classes, fun days, litter picking and more in over 20 neighbourhoods! If you’ve got an idea for your community, get in touch.

Easter Extravaganza

www.soha.co.uk 5

Hometalk | Soha Housing’s residents’ magazine | Spring 2015

www.soha.co.uk4

THE GREAT OUTDOORS!

Never mind the April showers! Get your wellies on and head out with the kids – a bit of mud just adds to the fun!

Warburg Nature Reserve, near Henley-on-Thames

www.bbowt.org.uk/reserves/warburg-nature-reserve

A visitor centre, bird hides and picnic area all make Warburg Nature Reserve a great place to bring your family. Pick up a special backpack that includes games, trail notes and spotter sheets from the visitor centre.

Millets Farm Centre

www.milletsfarmcentre.com

The free farm zoo, park and picnic space make Millets a firm family favourite. Take the FREE courtesy bus service from Abingdon and Wantage on a Tuesday (check their website or call 01865 392200 for details).

Cuttlebrook Nature Reserve, West Thame, near the Southern Road Recreation Ground

www.cuttlebrook.org.uk

Pack a picnic and drop into the family area at Cuttlebrook, then take your time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Island Farm Donkey Sanctuary, Brightwell-Cum-Sotwell

www.donkeyrescue.co.uk

The visitors’ centre and café are usually open 11am-4pm on weekends and school holidays; when the weather is fair visitors are welcome to walk along to the fields from where you’ll be able to see a lot of donkeys, some at close quarters!

Breathtaking Birds

Tues 7 April – Thurs 9 April 1pm-4pm

Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3PW

www.ox.ac.uk/event/breathtaking-birds

Try a bird song quiz and make a Red Kite mobile!

GET ONLINE!

You can use the Internet for free at Oxfordshire libraries and in the reception at Soha’s offices. We can even offer you a free lesson if you’re not sure where to start!

Check out these pages for more ideas of free and discount family fun for the school holidays:

www.naturedetectives.org.uk

www.netmums.com/activities/free-family-fun

www.getoxfordshireactive.org/southoxfordshire

STOP PRESS…

Calling all young artists! Soha has just launched an art competition for children and young people on the subject of Home. Check our Facebook page or call us for more information.

Make the most of the Easter holidays with our top tips for free family trips. Watch out for more ideas on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/SohaHousing) and share your own to win a prize! We’ll also be announcing our own free family activities on Facebook.

Five01 04

We all know that volunteering really can make things better: whether visiting someone who is lonely, providing transport, cooking skills or getting involved with Soha, you really can make a difference. But did you know that volunteering can also be great for you?

GET CRAFTY

Museums and libraries are great places to look out for free craft activities.

Drop in and Doodle: Phasmagorical Plasma

Thursday 2 April – Sunday 12 April 2015, 10am – 4pm

Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot

www.cornerstone-arts.org

Create a swirling plasma artwork after investigating the ‘Making a Sun Earth’ exhibition

to give volunteering a go

IT CAN MAKE YOU HAPPIER

Research shows that giving our time, energy and kindness to others not only helps them, but is great for our own well-being and happiness.

MAKE FRIENDS

Half of people over-60 say they make new friends and keep active by volunteering.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

The training and support available to volunteers means you could surprise yourself with new skills, knowledge and achievements.

STAY WELL

Many voluntary activities cover your expenses, making it easier to get out and about. Keeping active can be great for your mental and physical health. A quarter of volunteers aged 35-44 say they do it to improve their health.

GET THAT JOB!

Tenants wanting to get back into work or find a better job will often tell you that doing a spot of volunteering makes all the difference. A survey of the UK’s leading businesses showed that 73% said they’d employ someone who’s volunteered in preference to someone who hasn’t.

“Since I started volunteering, I’ve gone from being the quiet mouse in the corner to someone who’s talked to an audience of hundreds. I never would’ve thought that possible.”Carole, Soha tenant

“People have in the past said to me they don’t understand why I volunteer and that I could just sit at home and no-one would blame me. But I’d be a lot worse off – and possibly in need of greater medical and other support – if I did that. Because that’s the difference volunteering makes.” Emma, Soha tenant and CAB volunteer www.writerinawheelchair.co.uk

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

Here are some online volunteering websites with opportunities throughout the country:

www.do-it.org

www.timebank.org.uk

www.ocva.org.uk/volunteer-centre (local opportunities in Oxfordshire)

www.swindonvolunteers.org.uk (local opportunities in Swindon)

reasons

Soha VOLUNTEERSWe’re working with Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action (OCVA) to train Soha tenants to become community ambassadors who can help find other people the voluntary role they want. If you want to know more, please email [email protected] or call us.

YOU SAID, WE DID You said Soha should play a bigger role in local communities. Over the last two years, we’ve supported initiatives including cookery classes, fun days, litter picking and more in over 20 neighbourhoods! If you’ve got an idea for your community, get in touch.

Easter Extravaganza

www.soha.co.uk 5

www.soha.co.uk4

Universal Credit (UC) is a new Benefit that is starting to replace six Benefits for people

of working age. It will be made as a single monthly payment that includes any help you get with your rent.

If you’re asked to make a claim, don’t delay. Universal Credit payments start when you complete your claim and not from when you became unemployed. Before you start, you’ll need to have some information ready. This includes:

• your National Insurance number (this will be on your payslip or P60 – if you can’t find it call the NI helpline on 0300 200 3502)

GET ONLINE WITH SOHA DIGITAL

You must have an email address and access to the internet to claim Universal Credit online. If you’re not confident using a computer, or would like help setting up an email account, Soha can help. Sign up for one of our free sessions where Adela can help you with the basics of using a computer or tablet.

If you don’t have a computer at home, you can use the ones in reception at Soha, or ask at the Jobcentre for free facilities. Local libraries usually have PCs you can use for free.

As an added bonus, being online gives you access to cost comparison websites and discount vouchers, so you can save money too.

SET UP A MONTHLY HOUSEHOLD BUDGET

Universal Credit will be paid monthly in arrears – if you’re used to managing your money weekly or fortnightly this may be a big change for you. Set up a spreadsheet, or use an online budget planner (we like the Money Advice Service’s planner at www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/budget) to help work out your income and outgoings.

Remember that if you’re used to having your rent and bills paid for you by Benefits, you’ll now be responsible for paying them yourself. Go to www.yourmoneymatters.org.uk for tips on budgeting and how to make your money go that little bit further.

OPEN A BANK ACCOUNT

Universal Credit will be paid directly into your bank, building society or credit union account – if you haven’t got one you’ll need to set one up. You need one that lets you accept automated payments as this is how you will receive your money. If you’d prefer not to go through a credit check, pick an account that doesn’t let you have an overdraft.

THE SIX BENEFITS UC REPLACES FOR WORKING AGE PEOPLE ARE:

• Housing Benefit• Jobseeker’s Allowance• Income-related Employment

and Support Allowance• Income Support• Working Tax Credit, and• Child Tax Credit.

If you get any of these then you need to know about Universal Credit.

Universal Credit arrived in our area in February, starting in Swindon, and at first will only apply to you if you are single and making a new claim.

Over the next few months it will roll out across Oxfordshire, and to more types of household, so we’ve put together our top three things you can do to get ready.

• your email address

• your phone number and address

• Soha’s address

• details of your rent payment

• your bank account details

• and details of any income or savings you have.

Your claim needs to be done in one sitting; you can’t save or go back to it, so make sure you have all the information with you before you start.

Concerns or questions about Universal Credit? Call Tom, our Benefits specialist, on 01235 515900 or email him on [email protected]

You may have heard something about Universal Credit in the news over the past few months, but do you know whether it will affect you?

DID YOU KNOW?

If you live or work in Oxfordshire, you can join Oxfordshire Credit Union (OCU). All you need to do when you join is to start saving a regular amount each month. You can save as much or as little as you like and as often as you like, by Standing Order from your bank or you can pay cash in at shops and garages which show the PayPoint sign.

01865 777 757 or download an application form at www.oxfordshirecreditunion.co.uk

YOU SAID, WE DID Tenants have told us that energy bills are a worry. We are investing more than half a million pounds in improving our least energy-efficient homes – making them warmer and more affordable.

OCU is fully regulated by the FCA and covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, so your savings are 100% protected.

Once you’ve saved regularly with OCU for three months, you can apply for a loan. Terms will depend on your circumstances and they never lend more than you can repay.

If you would like to join OCU and start saving, please call

UNIVERSAL CREDIT?ARE YOU PREPARED FOR

Universal Credit (UC) is a new Benefit that is starting to replace six Benefits for people

of working age. It will be made as a single monthly payment that includes any help you get with your rent.

If you’re asked to make a claim, don’t delay. Universal Credit payments start when you complete your claim and not from when you became unemployed. Before you start, you’ll need to have some information ready. This includes:

• your National Insurance number (this will be on your payslip or P60 – if you can’t find it call the NI helpline on 0300 200 3502)

GET ONLINE WITH SOHA DIGITAL

You must have an email address and access to the internet to claim Universal Credit online. If you’re not confident using a computer, or would like help setting up an email account, Soha can help. Sign up for one of our free sessions where Adela can help you with the basics of using a computer or tablet.

If you don’t have a computer at home, you can use the ones in reception at Soha, or ask at the Jobcentre for free facilities. Local libraries usually have PCs you can use for free.

As an added bonus, being online gives you access to cost comparison websites and discount vouchers, so you can save money too.

SET UP A MONTHLY HOUSEHOLD BUDGET

Universal Credit will be paid monthly in arrears – if you’re used to managing your money weekly or fortnightly this may be a big change for you. Set up a spreadsheet, or use an online budget planner (we like the Money Advice Service’s planner at www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/budget) to help work out your income and outgoings.

Remember that if you’re used to having your rent and bills paid for you by Benefits, you’ll now be responsible for paying them yourself. Go to www.yourmoneymatters.org.uk for tips on budgeting and how to make your money go that little bit further.

OPEN A BANK ACCOUNT

Universal Credit will be paid directly into your bank, building society or credit union account – if you haven’t got one you’ll need to set one up. You need one that lets you accept automated payments as this is how you will receive your money. If you’d prefer not to go through a credit check, pick an account that doesn’t let you have an overdraft.

THE SIX BENEFITS UC REPLACES FOR WORKING AGE PEOPLE ARE:

• Housing Benefit• Jobseeker’s Allowance• Income-related Employment

and Support Allowance• Income Support• Working Tax Credit, and• Child Tax Credit.

If you get any of these then you need to know about Universal Credit.

Universal Credit arrived in our area in February, starting in Swindon, and at first will only apply to you if you are single and making a new claim.

Over the next few months it will roll out across Oxfordshire, and to more types of household, so we’ve put together our top three things you can do to get ready.

• your email address

• your phone number and address

• Soha’s address

• details of your rent payment

• your bank account details

• and details of any income or savings you have.

Your claim needs to be done in one sitting; you can’t save or go back to it, so make sure you have all the information with you before you start.

Concerns or questions about Universal Credit? Call Tom, our Benefits specialist, on 01235 515900 or email him on [email protected]

You may have heard something about Universal Credit in the news over the past few months, but do you know whether it will affect you?

DID YOU KNOW?

If you live or work in Oxfordshire, you can join Oxfordshire Credit Union (OCU). All you need to do when you join is to start saving a regular amount each month. You can save as much or as little as you like and as often as you like, by Standing Order from your bank or you can pay cash in at shops and garages which show the PayPoint sign.

01865 777 757 or download an application form at www.oxfordshirecreditunion.co.uk

YOU SAID, WE DID Tenants have told us that energy bills are a worry. We are investing more than half a million pounds in improving our least energy-efficient homes – making them warmer and more affordable.

OCU is fully regulated by the FCA and covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, so your savings are 100% protected.

Once you’ve saved regularly with OCU for three months, you can apply for a loan. Terms will depend on your circumstances and they never lend more than you can repay.

If you would like to join OCU and start saving, please call

UNIVERSAL CREDIT?ARE YOU PREPARED FOR

We break down each aim into manageable chunks and set ourselves

measurable targets for two years at a time. We start planning our next targets in about November: it takes a lot of discussion – with tenants, partner agencies, staff and with the Board of Soha!

That’s the background. April sees the start of a new business year and a set of two-year targets. So what does it mean to you as a tenant?

Spring Online makes it possible for thousands of people, many for the first time, to try

out using computers, tablets and the internet. Currently around 6.4 million people have never used the internet, and 5.6 million of those are over 55. Soha is working to change this by hosting free taster events for our tenants across our area.

TUESDAY 21 APRIL 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm The Christ Church Centre, Henley

WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm Oakdale Court, Wallingford

THURSDAY 23 APRIL 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm Windmill Place, Thame

Like any business, Soha has to work out its priorities and how to achieve them. We set our broad aims for three years at a time - we’re currently in the middle of a plan that takes us through to April 2017.

Would you like to know how to use a computer keyboard, browse a tablet or smartphone or send an email? Then come along to one of our Spring Online 2015 free events and have some fun.

YOU SAID, WE DID You said it would help to have more info on how to get a home and applying for housing. We’ve produced an introductory leaflet which anyone can request by telephone, find in our Reception, or grab copies of when we’re out and about at Playdays and other events during the summer.

• Quicker repairs.• Better grounds maintenance.• A new, improved website.• Support for tenants looking

for work, including training, volunteering experience and the offer of a reference.

• More help for tenants to get online and make the best of the internet.

• More activities supported by Soha in local communities.

• More ways to get involved with shaping Soha’s services.

What Can You Expect From Soha this Year?

“I’m really pleased that I managed to set up an Amazon account and learned how to buy from [them]. I could not have done it without help. I’m now confident that I know how to shop on Amazon.”

“Fantastic, I learned a lot! My head is buzzing and I have homework to do. It’s great you can come somewhere for free advice.”If you’re community minded with good computer skills and would like to be involved, please email [email protected].

£2.50 a day

£2.50a day

Hire aBromptonfolding bike24/7 Soha Tenants

Special Offer join for £10!

bromptonbikehire.com

Soha tenants get frequent membership for £10.

Hire a bike for just £2.50 a day

To take advantage of the offerregister with the promo code SOHA at bromptondock.co.uk/register

Bikes are available to hire from Didcot Parkway (OX11 7NR) and 27 other locations across the UK.

You can see all the tasks we set ourselves over the four years 2013-2017 on our website

Go to www.soha.co.uk/corporate/readaboutus or you can ring Customer Services for a printed copy of our Corporate Plan. Call 01235 515 900 if you’re using a mobile or ring us for free from a landline on 0800 014 15 45.

YOU SAID, WE DID Young people of Berinsfield said there was nothing for teenagers to do. We started Sport for Streets, a weekly high-energy sports and activities session.

We break down each aim into manageable chunks and set ourselves

measurable targets for two years at a time. We start planning our next targets in about November: it takes a lot of discussion – with tenants, partner agencies, staff and with the Board of Soha!

That’s the background. April sees the start of a new business year and a set of two-year targets. So what does it mean to you as a tenant?

Spring Online makes it possible for thousands of people, many for the first time, to try

out using computers, tablets and the internet. Currently around 6.4 million people have never used the internet, and 5.6 million of those are over 55. Soha is working to change this by hosting free taster events for our tenants across our area.

TUESDAY 21 APRIL 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm The Christ Church Centre, Henley

WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm Oakdale Court, Wallingford

THURSDAY 23 APRIL 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm Windmill Place, Thame

Like any business, Soha has to work out its priorities and how to achieve them. We set our broad aims for three years at a time - we’re currently in the middle of a plan that takes us through to April 2017.

Would you like to know how to use a computer keyboard, browse a tablet or smartphone or send an email? Then come along to one of our Spring Online 2015 free events and have some fun.

YOU SAID, WE DID You said it would help to have more info on how to get a home and applying for housing. We’ve produced an introductory leaflet which anyone can request by telephone, find in our Reception, or grab copies of when we’re out and about at Playdays and other events during the summer.

• Quicker repairs.• Better grounds maintenance.• A new, improved website.• Support for tenants looking

for work, including training, volunteering experience and the offer of a reference.

• More help for tenants to get online and make the best of the internet.

• More activities supported by Soha in local communities.

• More ways to get involved with shaping Soha’s services.

What Can You Expect From Soha this Year?

“I’m really pleased that I managed to set up an Amazon account and learned how to buy from [them]. I could not have done it without help. I’m now confident that I know how to shop on Amazon.”

“Fantastic, I learned a lot! My head is buzzing and I have homework to do. It’s great you can come somewhere for free advice.”If you’re community minded with good computer skills and would like to be involved, please email [email protected].

£2.50 a day

£2.50a day

Hire aBromptonfolding bike24/7 Soha Tenants

Special Offer join for £10!

bromptonbikehire.com

Soha tenants get frequent membership for £10.

Hire a bike for just £2.50 a day

To take advantage of the offerregister with the promo code SOHA at bromptondock.co.uk/register

Bikes are available to hire from Didcot Parkway (OX11 7NR) and 27 other locations across the UK.

You can see all the tasks we set ourselves over the four years 2013-2017 on our website

Go to www.soha.co.uk/corporate/readaboutus or you can ring Customer Services for a printed copy of our Corporate Plan. Call 01235 515 900 if you’re using a mobile or ring us for free from a landline on 0800 014 15 45.

YOU SAID, WE DID Young people of Berinsfield said there was nothing for teenagers to do. We started Sport for Streets, a weekly high-energy sports and activities session.

Well supported!

They called the money the Wishing Well Fund and all sorts of great ideas were born: from

a Hallowe’en party for teens (an alternative to trick-or-treating) and a Christmas lunch for older people on their own, to community clear-up sessions - LitterPickids (above) in Berinsfield. The offer of funding really brought out your creative side!

Another of the Wishing Well ventures revived an annual tradition from when the Cholsey Meadows development was the Fair Mile hospital and the Cholsey village children were invited up to the Fair Mile hall for a Christmas party. Cholsey Meadows residents held their version of this event just a few days before Christmas last year. 130 people attended, 80 of them children. Helen Jiggins, one of the organisers, says it was “a great community event for residents of ‘new’ and ‘old’ Cholsey to meet up!”

Last but not least in our round-up of Wishing Well grants is the fabulously

successful Thame Mixers initiative: with generous donations of food and equipment from Sainsbury’s, Co-operative Food and Waitrose in Thame, six sessions with crèche included brought Soha residents who love to cook together with ones who wanted to learn. All the students got a Food and Hygiene Level 2 Certificate out of it - a great help to any of them looking for food-related jobs.

If any of these Wishing Well projects have inspired you, there will be more grants up for grabs in the summer. Soha’s 2000 Fund wants your nominations for schemes to win a few hundred pounds each to get new community projects off the ground in Soha neighbourhoods.

Watch out for more news in the July edition of Hometalk, keep an eye on

Out & aboutwith Soha

Sadly we see fewer of our tenants during the winter months, but that doesn’t mean nothing’s been happening. We had great fun at our microchipping event with Dogs Trust and all your pooches – watch out for more free microchipping coming up over the spring and summer.

From April 2016 microchipping becomes compulsory in England, so with Soha’s help you can be ready well in advance!

30 October Sonning Common Playday

21 November Children’s Takeover Day

5 December AfA - International Day for Disability

11 December Seniors’ Christmas Event

17 January Soha & Dogs Trust Microchipping Event

YOU SAID, WE DID The Disability Action and Awareness Group wanted Soha to put in writing that we will help residents apply for a grant for major adaptations to their home if they need it. We’ve put that in our policy so that all staff know to offer assistance.

THERE WILL BE MORE GRANTS UP FOR GRABS IN THE SUMMER.

our Facebook page or contact the Resident Involvement team if you simply can’t wait till the launch!

Why the name 2000 Fund? Because in spring 2015, Soha will have handed over its 2,000th new home. That’s really something to celebrate! Anyone up for organising a street party …?

Tenants who produced the Annual Report last year made a saving large enough to give small grants to community events and projects around Soha’s neighbourhoods.

www.soha.co.uk 11

www.soha.co.uk10

Well supported!

They called the money the Wishing Well Fund and all sorts of great ideas were born: from

a Hallowe’en party for teens (an alternative to trick-or-treating) and a Christmas lunch for older people on their own, to community clear-up sessions - LitterPickids (above) in Berinsfield. The offer of funding really brought out your creative side!

Another of the Wishing Well ventures revived an annual tradition from when the Cholsey Meadows development was the Fair Mile hospital and the Cholsey village children were invited up to the Fair Mile hall for a Christmas party. Cholsey Meadows residents held their version of this event just a few days before Christmas last year. 130 people attended, 80 of them children. Helen Jiggins, one of the organisers, says it was “a great community event for residents of ‘new’ and ‘old’ Cholsey to meet up!”

Last but not least in our round-up of Wishing Well grants is the fabulously

successful Thame Mixers initiative: with generous donations of food and equipment from Sainsbury’s, Co-operative Food and Waitrose in Thame, six sessions with crèche included brought Soha residents who love to cook together with ones who wanted to learn. All the students got a Food and Hygiene Level 2 Certificate out of it - a great help to any of them looking for food-related jobs.

If any of these Wishing Well projects have inspired you, there will be more grants up for grabs in the summer. Soha’s 2000 Fund wants your nominations for schemes to win a few hundred pounds each to get new community projects off the ground in Soha neighbourhoods.

Watch out for more news in the July edition of Hometalk, keep an eye on

Out & aboutwith Soha

Sadly we see fewer of our tenants during the winter months, but that doesn’t mean nothing’s been happening. We had great fun at our microchipping event with Dogs Trust and all your pooches – watch out for more free microchipping coming up over the spring and summer.

From April 2016 microchipping becomes compulsory in England, so with Soha’s help you can be ready well in advance!

30 October Sonning Common Playday

21 November Children’s Takeover Day

5 December AfA - International Day for Disability

11 December Seniors’ Christmas Event

17 January Soha & Dogs Trust Microchipping Event

YOU SAID, WE DID The Disability Action and Awareness Group wanted Soha to put in writing that we will help residents apply for a grant for major adaptations to their home if they need it. We’ve put that in our policy so that all staff know to offer assistance.

THERE WILL BE MORE GRANTS UP FOR GRABS IN THE SUMMER.

our Facebook page or contact the Resident Involvement team if you simply can’t wait till the launch!

Why the name 2000 Fund? Because in spring 2015, Soha will have handed over its 2,000th new home. That’s really something to celebrate! Anyone up for organising a street party …?

Tenants who produced the Annual Report last year made a saving large enough to give small grants to community events and projects around Soha’s neighbourhoods.

www.soha.co.uk 11

www.soha.co.uk10

Is there anything that says spring more than the whiff of the first grass cuttings of the year? Even if your own garden is just a collection of pots on the windowsill, there are sights, smells and sounds of spring all around us. Hometalk talked to Damien, Soha’s award-winning gardener, to find out what jobs he’s doing and planning at this time of year.

WEEDING

You (and the weeds) may have had a few months off but there’s no let-up now that spring is on the way. Use old boards to step on as you work in your flowerbeds; you will avoid compressing the soil and making the weeds harder to pull out.

PRETTIEST PLOTS AND POTS GARDEN COMPETITION

Whether you’ve got a Downton Abbey-sized garden, the most compact window box or anything in between that’s outdoors, there’s sure to be a category you can enter to win garden or home vouchers:

• Best front garden

• Best back garden

• Best environmental/wildlife garden

• Best community garden

• Best sheltered scheme garden

• Best single hanging basket/container

• Most improved garden (before and after shots, please)

• Best children’s garden (age 4-10)

Get your entry forms now from the Resident Involvement Team on [email protected] or 01235 515 900 (0800 014 15 45 free from a landline). Judging will take place mid-August.

DOUBLE YOUR DISPLAY!

Existing plants can be divided up to make new, smaller ones ready to flourish through the summer. If you’re not sure, you can check which at www.rhs.org.uk/plants. It’ll even tell you how to do it!

VEGETABLES

Once the soil reaches 6°C you can start to sow outside. If you’ve got some of that gardening fleece left that we mentioned in the last edition of Hometalk, use it to protect the new shoots.

HEDGES

If you have a hedge in your garden, the chances are that you are responsible for it, rather than Soha (although you can always check with the Customer Services Advisors). Now is the time to prune hard but you only need to do one side. The top and the remaining side will grow to cover over the pruned wood during the spring. You should do the rest of the hedge in the summer to keep it in manageable shape.

If you were given any flowering bulbs for Christmas you could plant them out ready to make a good show next year. Hyacinths, dwarf iris, miniature daffodils and their friends would all welcome a new home in your garden. Keep them moist and out of the wind to start with.

Soha staff who go out and about frequently tell Hometalk that one of the best bits about their job is seeing the care residents lavish on their gardens. So… since so many of you make us happy, we thought it was time for us to return the favour by giving you a chance to win in our - Prettiest Plots and Pots Garden Competition.

FEEDING

Now’s the time to improve the quality of your soil, but only after you’ve weeded – otherwise you will just be boosting the chances of the nasties taking a hold. Dig in compost, manure or leaf mould and turn over the soil to a depth of about 5cm (2 inches). If you have allotments in your neighbourhood, wander up to see the gardeners there. They’re bound to be able to tell you the best local sources of any soil dressings going cheap – or even free.

Your first cut of the year should be on the highest setting, getting lower as you head through the spring. It’s much easier to mow around flower beds if they have clean edges – and a sharp line looks so much more attractive. So now’s the time to use the back of a spade or a half-moon edging tool to make the distinction between lawn and soil. Remember to rake your lawn clippings away from the edges of the beds, not into them!

DigIt!with Damien

Is there anything that says spring more than the whiff of the first grass cuttings of the year? Even if your own garden is just a collection of pots on the windowsill, there are sights, smells and sounds of spring all around us. Hometalk talked to Damien, Soha’s award-winning gardener, to find out what jobs he’s doing and planning at this time of year.

WEEDING

You (and the weeds) may have had a few months off but there’s no let-up now that spring is on the way. Use old boards to step on as you work in your flowerbeds; you will avoid compressing the soil and making the weeds harder to pull out.

PRETTIEST PLOTS AND POTS GARDEN COMPETITION

Whether you’ve got a Downton Abbey-sized garden, the most compact window box or anything in between that’s outdoors, there’s sure to be a category you can enter to win garden or home vouchers:

• Best front garden

• Best back garden

• Best environmental/wildlife garden

• Best community garden

• Best sheltered scheme garden

• Best single hanging basket/container

• Most improved garden (before and after shots, please)

Get your entry forms now from the Resident Involvement Team on [email protected] or 01235 515 900 (0800 014 15 45 free from a landline). Judging will take place mid-August.

DOUBLE YOUR DISPLAY!

Existing plants can be divided up to make new, smaller ones ready to flourish through the summer. If you’re not sure, you can check which at www.rhs.org.uk/plants. It’ll even tell you how to do it!

VEGETABLES

Once the soil reaches 6°C you can start to sow outside. If you’ve got some of that gardening fleece left that we mentioned in the last edition of Hometalk, use it to protect the new shoots.

HEDGES

If you have a hedge in your garden, the chances are that you are responsible for it, rather than Soha (although you can always check with the Customer Services Advisors). Now is the time to prune hard but you only need to do one side. The top and the remaining side will grow to cover over the pruned wood during the spring. You should do the rest of the hedge in the summer to keep it in manageable shape.

If you were given any flowering bulbs for Christmas you could plant them out ready to make a good show next year. Hyacinths, dwarf iris, miniature daffodils and their friends would all welcome a new home in your garden. Keep them moist and out of the wind to start with.

Soha staff who go out and about frequently tell Hometalk that one of the best bits about their job is seeing the care residents lavish on their gardens. So… since so many of you make us happy, we thought it was time for us to return the favour by giving you a chance to win in our - Prettiest Plots and Pots Garden Competition.

FEEDING

Now’s the time to improve the quality of your soil, but only after you’ve weeded – otherwise you will just be boosting the chances of the nasties taking a hold. Dig in compost, manure or leaf mould and turn over the soil to a depth of about 5cm (2 inches). If you have allotments in your neighbourhood, wander up to see the gardeners there. They’re bound to be able to tell you the best local sources of any soil dressings going cheap – or even free.

Your first cut of the year should be on the highest setting, getting lower as you head through the spring. It’s much easier to mow around flower beds if they have clean edges – and a sharp line looks so much more attractive. So now’s the time to use the back of a spade or a half-moon edging tool to make the distinction between lawn and soil. Remember to rake your lawn clippings away from the edges of the beds, not into them!

DigIt!with Damien

Diary dates

WELCOME ON BOARD

If you see them around, say hello to our two new contractors. Carter & Faraday Associates took over all our cleaning contracts at the end of November. They’ve made a great start, with tenants giving glowing references like “Jason is the best window cleaner we’ve ever had” and “He needs a well done”. High praise, indeed!

EmmDee Building Services took over our repairs contract at the beginning of February. Most of the Mears staff have transferred to the new contract, so you’ll be seeing some familiar faces but with new vans and uniforms.

April 2015Wednesday 1 April

AM visit: Estate inspection, Cholsey Meadows Estate survey, Cholsey Meadows

Thursday 2 April

PM visit: Estate inspection, Medill Close, Woodcote

Thursday 9 April

AM visit: Estate inspection, Gainsborough Estate, Henley

Monday 13 April

AM visit: Estate inspection, Great Western Drive, Didcot

Tuesday 14 April

10am-12pm: Housing Benefit Surgery, Thame Town Hall

11am-12pm: Free computer session, Old School Place, Watlington

Wednesday 15 April

9.30am-1pm: Housing Benefit Surgery, Royal Scot House, Didcot

AM visit: Estate inspection, Fleet Meadow, Didcot

Thursday 16 April

10am-12pm: Housing Benefit Surgery, Henley Town Hall

Tuesday 21 April

10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm: Spring Online, free computer session, The Christ Church Centre, Henley

Wednesday 22 April

10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm: Spring Online, free computer session, Oakdale Court, Wallingford

Thursday 23 April

AM visit: Estate inspection, Great Western Park, Didcot

10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm: Spring Online, free computer session, Windmill Place, Thame

Tuesday 28 April

AM visit: Estate inspection, Luker Avenue, Henley

PM visit: Estate inspection, Great Western Park, Didcot

May 2015Thursday 7 May

Friday 8 May

Tuesday 12 May

PM visit: Estate inspection, Van Diemans Road & Broadwaters Avenue, Thame (with Thames Valley Police)

Wednesday 13 May

AM visit: Estate inspection, Cholsey Meadows

Estate survey, Great Western Drive, Didcot

Thursday 14 May

6pm-8.30pm: Tenants’ Forum, Royal Scot House, Didcot

Tuesday 19 May

AM visit: Estate inspection, Swindon

AM visit: Estate inspection, Ock Bridge Place, Drayton Road & Caldecott Chase, Abingdon

10am-12pm: Astons Online, free computer session, Astons Village Hall

Wednesday 20 May

10am-12pm: Free computer session, Henley YMCA

Thursday 21 May

AM visit: Estate inspection, Sherwood Place, Oxford

Tuesday 26 May

PM visit: Estate inspection, Mount View, Henley

Wednesday 27 May

10am-12pm: Free computer session, Oakdale Court, Wallingford

June 2015Wednesday 3 June

Thursday 4 June

Tuesday 9 June

Wednesday 10 June

Estate survey: Mount View, Henley

Thursday 11 June

Tuesday 16 June

Wednesday 17 June

Tuesday 23 June

Wednesday 24 June

July 2015Thursday 2 July

Wednesday 8 July

Thursday 9 July

Tuesday 14 July

Wednesday 15 July

Estate survey: Ock Bridge Place, Drayton Road & Caldecott Chase, Abingdon

Thursday 16 July

Tuesday 21 July

Wednesday 22 July

Thursday 23 July

Tuesday 28 July

Advice | Training | Estate inspections and surveys | Tenants’ Forum

Diary dates

WELCOME ON BOARD

If you see them around, say hello to our two new contractors. Carter & Faraday Associates took over all our cleaning contracts at the end of November. They’ve made a great start, with tenants giving glowing references like “Jason is the best window cleaner we’ve ever had” and “He needs a well done”. High praise, indeed!

EmmDee Building Services took over our repairs contract at the beginning of February. Most of the Mears staff have transferred to the new contract, so you’ll be seeing some familiar faces but with new vans and uniforms.

April 2015Wednesday 1 April

AM visit: Estate inspection, Cholsey Meadows Estate survey, Cholsey Meadows

Thursday 2 April

Thursday 9 April

Monday 13 April

Tuesday 14 April

Wednesday 15 April

Thursday 16 April

Tuesday 21 April

10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm: Spring Online, free computer session, The Christ Church Centre, Henley

Wednesday 22 April

10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm: Spring Online, free computer session, Oakdale Court, Wallingford

Thursday 23 April

10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm: Spring Online, free computer session, Windmill Place, Thame

Tuesday 28 April

PM visit: Estate inspection, Great Western Park, Didcot

May 2015Thursday 7 May

Friday 8 May

Tuesday 12 May

Wednesday 13 May

Estate survey, Great Western Drive, Didcot

Thursday 14 May

Tuesday 19 May

Wednesday 20 May

Thursday 21 May

Tuesday 26 May

Wednesday 27 May

10am-12pm: Free computer session, Oakdale Court, Wallingford

June 2015Wednesday 3 June

Thursday 4 June

Tuesday 9 June

Wednesday 10 June

Estate survey: Mount View, Henley

Thursday 11 June

Tuesday 16 June

Wednesday 17 June

Tuesday 23 June

Wednesday 24 June

July 2015Thursday 2 July

Wednesday 8 July

Thursday 9 July

Tuesday 14 July

Wednesday 15 July

Estate survey: Ock Bridge Place, Drayton Road & Caldecott Chase, Abingdon

Thursday 16 July

Tuesday 21 July

Wednesday 22 July

Thursday 23 July

Tuesday 28 July

Advice | Training | Estate inspections and surveys | Tenants’ Forum

Soha Housing’s residents’ magazine | Spring 2015

Page 06 Page 09

Discounts to refreshyour home. Whatever the project, big or small, start every job with great discounts at your local Dulux Decorator Centre.

Get huge savings and more including:

• Savings across the range• Top branded paints and accessories• Discounts available in-store and online• 1,000’s of paint colours and wallcoverings• Friendly, helpful staff• And don’t forget, delivery is FREE!†

Remember to always show your staff cardor proof of tenancy to receive your discount.

For your nearest store call 0845 850 2200or visit www.duluxdecoratorcentre.co.uk/housing/sohaor to place your order call 0845 602 3128.

@DuluxRefresh duluxdecoratorcentre dulux-refresh

*Discount is off shelf edge price exc. VAT. Not available on account terms, cash sales only.Products must be paid for at time of purchase. Not to be used in conjunction with any otheroffers or promotions. Exclusions apply. See in-store for details. †Terms and conditions apply.Order before 9.30am for same day delivery. For online ordering only - free delivery to accountholders and to non account holders on orders over £50.

Easter Extravaganza

Well supported!

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UNIVERSAL CREDIT?

hometalk spring 2015

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