For people who are not aware, there are currently two ways that Wales can seek legislative powers. Both are via Schedule 5 of the Government of Wales Act 2006. The first is by the inclusion of provisions in UK Parliamentary Bills (referred to as framework powers) by the UK Government.
The second is via a Legislative Competency Order (LCO). This is a piece of constitutional legislation in the form of an order in council that transfers legislative authority from the UK parliament to National Assembly for Wales. Each LCO adds a ‘Matter’ to one of the ‘Fields’ stated in Schedule 5 of the Government of Wales Act 2006. This is the list of areas in which the National Assembly for Wales may legislate. One of these ‘Fields’ is housing matters.
The LCO must be approved by the National Assembly for Wales, the Secretary of State for Wales, both houses of Parliament and then the Queen in Council. Each Matter then gives the Welsh Assembly Government permission to pass legislation known as an Assembly Measure, which operates in Wales just as an Act of Parliament operates across the UK.
The text that comes with the LCO contains the actual title of the legislation (Measure). An Assembly Measure allows provisions to be made in certain areas e.g. Housing, Health, Social Services etc.
Allies of aspiration – A new broad ranging LCO for housing in Wales
The National Assembly for Wales has set out proposals concerning the transfer of legislative powers in the key areas of tenancy issues, housing related support, homelessness, regulation of social landlords, gypsy and travellers, empty homes and council tax for second homes.
The Welsh Tenants Federation welcomes the LCO which aims to give powers to the National Assembly for Wales to deliver on key priorities as outlined in the One Wales agreement and the linked strategies concerning National Housing, homeless and supporting people priorities. It will also address outcomes from the wide ranging Essex review on affordable housing. To the lay person, no one in their right mind would contemplate starting a job without ensuring they have the appropriate tools to complete the work to a good standard, so it makes sense to seek these legislative tools to deliver on the housing sectors collaborative aspirations.
Speaking on the ‘measures’ being sought, policy officer Steve Clarke said ‘We are particularly pleased that the National Assembly for Wales is seeking the transfer of powers in respect of ‘tenancy matters’. We look forward to the debates concerning the potential to equalise rights across the housing sector ending the disparity that exists between different providers and potentially widening choice and delivering on social mobility objectives.
However there are difficulties when trying to introduce instituitional change when full law making powers are not available. There is also an opportunity to address equality issues regarding co-habiting couples and women in domestic violence cases, expanding on some of the good practice that already exists. There are always risks when you open these issues up for change, therefore the tenant community needs to ensure that their aspirations are being considered as we embark on this journey. Collectively agreeing on a suite of rights and responsibilities, will also mean examining how they are enforced while providing tenants with the means by which their consumer rights are protected.
We are also pleased to see wider intervention powers by the Welsh Assembly Government as the regulator of social housing as recommended under the Sustainable Homes report published in July 08.
There are several other measures contained in the LCO concerning delivery approaches to homeless prevention and supporting people which we broadly welcome and look forward to the opportunity to consider them in depth as the measures are considered and developed by the scrutiny committees should the proposals seek wide ranging support from a majority in the assembly.
Clearly there is a journey to be travelled before the National Assembly for Wales achieves the legislative programme required to preserve and protect our valuable social housing assets and the people that occupy them. We have allies of aspiration within the housing sector, what we need now, is for that aspiration to find collective support to ensure delivery.
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Overpayment of recovery
Following a case brought by Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) the court of appeal has ruled that the secretary of state for work and pensions cannot recover overpayments of social security benefits through the courts where the claimant is not at fault.
In social security law, the test for when the DWP can recover overpayments of relevant benefits is set out in section 71 Social Security Administration Act.. The test in s71 broadly allows for recovery where the claimant has misrepresented or failed to disclose a material fact. Importantly the claimant has a right to appeal to a tribunal against a decision that an overpayment is recoverable under this test. If the overpayment is found to be recoverable under this test there are a number of ways the DWP can recover it including through deductions from current or future benefit payments.The government had written to 65,000 claimants asking them to repay overpaid benefits.
It is not sure whether people who have already paid back overpayments would be able to claim them back. Further information can be found at http://www.cpag.org.uk/welfarerights/overpayment-recovery/
In social security law, the test for when the DWP can recover overpayments of relevant benefits is set out in section 71 Social Security Administration Act.. The test in s71 broadly allows for recovery where the claimant has misrepresented or failed to disclose a material fact. Importantly the claimant has a right to appeal to a tribunal against a decision that an overpayment is recoverable under this test. If the overpayment is found to be recoverable under this test there are a number of ways the DWP can recover it including through deductions from current or future benefit payments.The government had written to 65,000 claimants asking them to repay overpaid benefits.
It is not sure whether people who have already paid back overpayments would be able to claim them back. Further information can be found at http://www.cpag.org.uk/welfarerights/overpayment-recovery/
Welsh Tenants Federation response to the Financial Services Bill
The Government brought its Financial Services Bill before parliament today (19th Nov 09). Among the bills provision is the ability of representative bodies to bring actions on behalf of consumers thus ensuring that consumers can obtain redress through the courts. It also strengthens the role of the Regulator the Financial Services Authority, (FSA) by extending its powers thus enabling it to act more proactively on behalf of consumers.
The Welsh Tenants Federation welcomes provisions to ensure added safeguards for consumers whilst providing better information, education, and redress for consumers of financial products. In particular we welcome the setting up of a national Money Guidance Service paid for through a levy imposed on financial institutions. This will enable people to receive better advice and support and help people to develop their knowledge and understanding of financial products and services.
While the Bill has made provisions to ban the open cheques used by the sector to entice people to borrow, the bill falls short of capping the often excessive charges for credit as proposed by many national consumer representative bodies.
Steve Clarke policy officer for the WTF said, “while there are some good measures contained in the bill, particularly the provision of better independent advice, the government has failed to protect private tenants from eviction where their landlords property is being repossessed for mortgage arrears. The reliance on the voluntary protocol established earlier this year between the Council of Mortgage Lenders and government does not go far enough in helping tenants to safeguard their home and is a temporary measure. This is a missed opportunity to provide assurances to people who rent privately, the government could have ensured that lenders have a duty to consult on a range of options such as: consulting housing associations who would have an option to convert the mortgage to a rental scheme with better security of tenure for the occupants; consider a mortgage rescue scheme with the landlord; or extending the payback period of the mortgage”.
Some of the main headline elements of the bill include:
New measures to provide better support for consumers including:
•Allowing a representative organisation to bring action through the courts on behalf of a group of consumers.
•Enhancing the FSA's powers to enable it to order a review of past business and secure compensation if there has been legal or regulatory breaches.
•A ban on open credit card cheques, preventing financial institutions from encouraging customers to borrow more than they can afford.
•A new independent Money Guidance Service established by the FSA, to increase financial education and awareness among consumers.
•New authority for the Financial Services Compensation Scheme to act as an agent to deliver compensation to UK customers of financial firms based overseas, improving depositor protection.
Financial stability
•Strengthen the regulatory framework, including the creation of the Council for Financial Stability (CFS) and enhanced powers for the Financial Services Authority. The CFS will be chaired by the chancellor of the exchequer and include the chairman of the Financial Services Authority (FSA) and the governor of the Bank of England, to focus on managing systemic risk and protecting financial stability, both in the UK and internationally.
•A new FSA duty to require firms to produce Recovery and Resolution Plans (RRPs). RRPs will ensure institutions have robust recovery plans to deal with periods of downturn relieving reliance of support from the taxpayers.
New powers given to the FSA are as follows:
•Rule-making powers may be used by the FSA for any of its objectives (not just consumer protection as at present).
•Information-gathering powers extended to non-regulated firms where information is relevant to financial stability, for example hedge funds.
•Strengthened powers to take action where firms and individuals are guilty of misconduct.
•Legislative provisions on pay as recommended by the Walker review of corporate governance (due for publication 26th November) and the G20 agreement on remuneration. This includes:
oTougher rules on pay and bonuses to ensure remuneration policies do not contribute to excessive risk taking.
oAn end to multi-year guaranteed bonuses, or large bonuses paid out as a cash lump sum at the year-end, and all bonuses subject to clawback;
The Welsh Tenants Federation will monitor the passage of the Bill through its various stages in parliament. Time is however short, we are hopeful that the gaps in the bill can be addressed as it progresses.
The Welsh Tenants Federation is the representative voice for tenants in Wales. For further information contact news@welshtenantsfed.org.uk
The Welsh Tenants Federation welcomes provisions to ensure added safeguards for consumers whilst providing better information, education, and redress for consumers of financial products. In particular we welcome the setting up of a national Money Guidance Service paid for through a levy imposed on financial institutions. This will enable people to receive better advice and support and help people to develop their knowledge and understanding of financial products and services.
While the Bill has made provisions to ban the open cheques used by the sector to entice people to borrow, the bill falls short of capping the often excessive charges for credit as proposed by many national consumer representative bodies.
Steve Clarke policy officer for the WTF said, “while there are some good measures contained in the bill, particularly the provision of better independent advice, the government has failed to protect private tenants from eviction where their landlords property is being repossessed for mortgage arrears. The reliance on the voluntary protocol established earlier this year between the Council of Mortgage Lenders and government does not go far enough in helping tenants to safeguard their home and is a temporary measure. This is a missed opportunity to provide assurances to people who rent privately, the government could have ensured that lenders have a duty to consult on a range of options such as: consulting housing associations who would have an option to convert the mortgage to a rental scheme with better security of tenure for the occupants; consider a mortgage rescue scheme with the landlord; or extending the payback period of the mortgage”.
Some of the main headline elements of the bill include:
New measures to provide better support for consumers including:
•Allowing a representative organisation to bring action through the courts on behalf of a group of consumers.
•Enhancing the FSA's powers to enable it to order a review of past business and secure compensation if there has been legal or regulatory breaches.
•A ban on open credit card cheques, preventing financial institutions from encouraging customers to borrow more than they can afford.
•A new independent Money Guidance Service established by the FSA, to increase financial education and awareness among consumers.
•New authority for the Financial Services Compensation Scheme to act as an agent to deliver compensation to UK customers of financial firms based overseas, improving depositor protection.
Financial stability
•Strengthen the regulatory framework, including the creation of the Council for Financial Stability (CFS) and enhanced powers for the Financial Services Authority. The CFS will be chaired by the chancellor of the exchequer and include the chairman of the Financial Services Authority (FSA) and the governor of the Bank of England, to focus on managing systemic risk and protecting financial stability, both in the UK and internationally.
•A new FSA duty to require firms to produce Recovery and Resolution Plans (RRPs). RRPs will ensure institutions have robust recovery plans to deal with periods of downturn relieving reliance of support from the taxpayers.
New powers given to the FSA are as follows:
•Rule-making powers may be used by the FSA for any of its objectives (not just consumer protection as at present).
•Information-gathering powers extended to non-regulated firms where information is relevant to financial stability, for example hedge funds.
•Strengthened powers to take action where firms and individuals are guilty of misconduct.
•Legislative provisions on pay as recommended by the Walker review of corporate governance (due for publication 26th November) and the G20 agreement on remuneration. This includes:
oTougher rules on pay and bonuses to ensure remuneration policies do not contribute to excessive risk taking.
oAn end to multi-year guaranteed bonuses, or large bonuses paid out as a cash lump sum at the year-end, and all bonuses subject to clawback;
The Welsh Tenants Federation will monitor the passage of the Bill through its various stages in parliament. Time is however short, we are hopeful that the gaps in the bill can be addressed as it progresses.
The Welsh Tenants Federation is the representative voice for tenants in Wales. For further information contact news@welshtenantsfed.org.uk
Stop press – Paying the Price of being Poor
A household is classified as ‘fuel poor’ when more than 10% of their income is spent on fuel. There are moves afoot in England to introduce new powers for the regulator to take action and make social tariffs mandatory not optional and are planning new, measures on energy efficiency targeted at the poorest.
CAB reports that in England and Wales they saw a 46% increase in the umber of people asking for advice on fuel debt compared to the same period last year.
A recent report addressing the price of being poor which the Welsh Tenants Federation supported was published by the Bevan Foundation. ‘Paying the Price of Being Poor’ also highlights the problem of the fuel poor with Wales the lowest proportion of people switching suppliers and hence not able to benefit from competition within the energy sector. On fuel poverty the report recommends that;
More information should be made available about pricing and switching energy providers
Greater regulation of energy pricing (especially social tariffs) and sales activity
New payment methods including post office network and post office account should be developed
Winter fuel payments should be developed to address child poverty and tackle underlying problems of fuel poverty
Micro generation initiatives need to be carefully managed to ensure hey can be taken up by low income households
And the Welsh Assembly Government should have a stronger voice dealing with UK government bodies
A copy of the report can be obtained form the Bevan Foundation, Innovation centre, Victoria Business Park, Festival Drive, Ebbw Vale, NP23 8XA. www.bevanfoundation.org
CAB reports that in England and Wales they saw a 46% increase in the umber of people asking for advice on fuel debt compared to the same period last year.
A recent report addressing the price of being poor which the Welsh Tenants Federation supported was published by the Bevan Foundation. ‘Paying the Price of Being Poor’ also highlights the problem of the fuel poor with Wales the lowest proportion of people switching suppliers and hence not able to benefit from competition within the energy sector. On fuel poverty the report recommends that;
More information should be made available about pricing and switching energy providers
Greater regulation of energy pricing (especially social tariffs) and sales activity
New payment methods including post office network and post office account should be developed
Winter fuel payments should be developed to address child poverty and tackle underlying problems of fuel poverty
Micro generation initiatives need to be carefully managed to ensure hey can be taken up by low income households
And the Welsh Assembly Government should have a stronger voice dealing with UK government bodies
A copy of the report can be obtained form the Bevan Foundation, Innovation centre, Victoria Business Park, Festival Drive, Ebbw Vale, NP23 8XA. www.bevanfoundation.org
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Environmental Training at Trafford Hall
Trafford Hall has received funding from The Tudor Trust to run a pilot training session which will be designed to support communities in their response to environmental challenges. In order to develop a truly effective course program we need to know what is important to you and what type of training could help you to make a difference in your community. This is a unique chance for you to tell us what you want!
It would be extremely helpful to us if you could take the time to answer the questions below. Just a couple of sentences to answer each question would be greatly appreciated you do not need to have any previous experience of environmental training to make a contribution to this. Please send us your reply by September 25th 2009.
In response to your feedback, we will be running a free taster training day in November. Please let us know in your reply if you would be interested in attending this event. We will provide lunch and contribute towards your travel expenses on the day.
THE QUESTIONS
1. Do climate change and the environment matter? If so, what do you think are the most important issues?
2. Do these issues directly affect you and your community? If so, how?
3. Do you have access to the information and resources needed to address any of these issues?
4. What type of training on environmental and sustainability topics would be useful to you and your community? Please list three topics e.g. saving energy, gardening skills etc. We will assume that everybody wants to know about grant funding so please dont list that as one of your topics.
5. How do you think improving the environmental sustainability of your community could help to solve other problems e.g. anti-social behaviour, isolation?
6. What does 'community resilience' mean to you?
7. Would you be interested in attending a taster training day at Trafford Hall in November?
PLEASE SEND YOUR RESPONSE TO p.potter@traffordhall.com
Thank you.
If you would prefer to talk through these questions please call Poppy Potter on 01244 300246 or email p.potter@traffordhall.com to arrange a time for us to call you back.
It would be extremely helpful to us if you could take the time to answer the questions below. Just a couple of sentences to answer each question would be greatly appreciated you do not need to have any previous experience of environmental training to make a contribution to this. Please send us your reply by September 25th 2009.
In response to your feedback, we will be running a free taster training day in November. Please let us know in your reply if you would be interested in attending this event. We will provide lunch and contribute towards your travel expenses on the day.
THE QUESTIONS
1. Do climate change and the environment matter? If so, what do you think are the most important issues?
2. Do these issues directly affect you and your community? If so, how?
3. Do you have access to the information and resources needed to address any of these issues?
4. What type of training on environmental and sustainability topics would be useful to you and your community? Please list three topics e.g. saving energy, gardening skills etc. We will assume that everybody wants to know about grant funding so please dont list that as one of your topics.
5. How do you think improving the environmental sustainability of your community could help to solve other problems e.g. anti-social behaviour, isolation?
6. What does 'community resilience' mean to you?
7. Would you be interested in attending a taster training day at Trafford Hall in November?
PLEASE SEND YOUR RESPONSE TO p.potter@traffordhall.com
Thank you.
If you would prefer to talk through these questions please call Poppy Potter on 01244 300246 or email p.potter@traffordhall.com to arrange a time for us to call you back.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Exciting StoneWall Project
This is a bilingual message, please scroll down for Welsh
Are you Black Minority Ethnic and Lesbian, Gay or Bisexual in Wales? We want to hear from you!
Do you identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual and are from a black, minority or ethnic community?
If so, we would like to hear from you about the good points and difficulties that come with having both identities, and what its like living in a community in Wales. This is a simple enquiry project based in North Wales, but we would like to hear from LGB BME people across Wales to discover your issues and needs, with the possibility of developing a bigger project.
You can contact Jenny Porter the Community Liaison Officer by email on jenny.porter@stonewallcymru.org.uk or by phone on 01492 622202, information will be treated with confidentiality.
Ydych chi’n berson Lesbiaidd, Hoyw neu Ddeurywiol o gefndir Du neu Leiafrif Ethnig yng Nghymru? Rydym am glywed oddi wrthych!
Ydych chi’n lesbiaidd, hoyw neu ddeurywiol ac o gymuned ddu, leiafrifol neu ethnig?
Os felly, hoffem glywed oddi wrthych am y pwyntiau da a’r anawsterau a ddaw yn sgil y ddwy hunaniaeth, a sut brofiad yw byw mewn cymuned yng Nghymru. Rydym yn cynnal prosiect ymholi syml yng ngogledd Cymru, ond hoffem glywed gan bobl LHD o gefndir du a lleiafrifoedd ethnig ledled Cymru er mwyn darganfod eich pryderon a’ch anghenion, gyda’r posibilrwydd o ddatblygu prosiect mwy.
Gallwch gysylltu gyda Jenny Porter, y Swyddog Cyswllt Cymunedol, drwy anfon ebost at jenny.porter@stonewallcymru.org.uk neu drwy ffonio 01492 622202, bydd yr holl wybodaeth a dderbynnir yn cael ei drin yn gyfrinachol.
Ele Hicks
Swyddog Polisi a Phrosiectau / Projects and Policy Officer
Stonewall Cymru
Transport House
1 Heol y Gadeirlan / 1 Cathedral Road
Caerdydd / Cardiff
CF11 9SB.
Ffôn / Phone: 029 20237744
www.stonewallcymru.org.uk
Enw a chyfeiriad cofrestredig: Stonewall Equality Ltd, Tower Building, York Road, London SE1 7NX
Cofrestredig yng Nghymru a Lloegr
Rhif cofrestru 02412299
Rhif TAW 862 9064 05
Elusen gofrestredig rhif 1101255
Registered name and address: Stonewall Equality Ltd, Tower Building, York Road, London SE1 7NX
Registered in England and Wales
Registration number 02412299
VAT number 862 9064 05
Registered Charity number 1101255
Are you Black Minority Ethnic and Lesbian, Gay or Bisexual in Wales? We want to hear from you!
Do you identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual and are from a black, minority or ethnic community?
If so, we would like to hear from you about the good points and difficulties that come with having both identities, and what its like living in a community in Wales. This is a simple enquiry project based in North Wales, but we would like to hear from LGB BME people across Wales to discover your issues and needs, with the possibility of developing a bigger project.
You can contact Jenny Porter the Community Liaison Officer by email on jenny.porter@stonewallcymru.org.uk or by phone on 01492 622202, information will be treated with confidentiality.
Ydych chi’n berson Lesbiaidd, Hoyw neu Ddeurywiol o gefndir Du neu Leiafrif Ethnig yng Nghymru? Rydym am glywed oddi wrthych!
Ydych chi’n lesbiaidd, hoyw neu ddeurywiol ac o gymuned ddu, leiafrifol neu ethnig?
Os felly, hoffem glywed oddi wrthych am y pwyntiau da a’r anawsterau a ddaw yn sgil y ddwy hunaniaeth, a sut brofiad yw byw mewn cymuned yng Nghymru. Rydym yn cynnal prosiect ymholi syml yng ngogledd Cymru, ond hoffem glywed gan bobl LHD o gefndir du a lleiafrifoedd ethnig ledled Cymru er mwyn darganfod eich pryderon a’ch anghenion, gyda’r posibilrwydd o ddatblygu prosiect mwy.
Gallwch gysylltu gyda Jenny Porter, y Swyddog Cyswllt Cymunedol, drwy anfon ebost at jenny.porter@stonewallcymru.org.uk neu drwy ffonio 01492 622202, bydd yr holl wybodaeth a dderbynnir yn cael ei drin yn gyfrinachol.
Ele Hicks
Swyddog Polisi a Phrosiectau / Projects and Policy Officer
Stonewall Cymru
Transport House
1 Heol y Gadeirlan / 1 Cathedral Road
Caerdydd / Cardiff
CF11 9SB.
Ffôn / Phone: 029 20237744
www.stonewallcymru.org.uk
Enw a chyfeiriad cofrestredig: Stonewall Equality Ltd, Tower Building, York Road, London SE1 7NX
Cofrestredig yng Nghymru a Lloegr
Rhif cofrestru 02412299
Rhif TAW 862 9064 05
Elusen gofrestredig rhif 1101255
Registered name and address: Stonewall Equality Ltd, Tower Building, York Road, London SE1 7NX
Registered in England and Wales
Registration number 02412299
VAT number 862 9064 05
Registered Charity number 1101255
Exciting StoneWall Project
This is a bilingual message, please scroll down for Welsh
Are you Black Minority Ethnic and Lesbian, Gay or Bisexual in Wales? We want to hear from you!
Do you identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual and are from a black, minority or ethnic community?
If so, we would like to hear from you about the good points and difficulties that come with having both identities, and what its like living in a community in Wales. This is a simple enquiry project based in North Wales, but we would like to hear from LGB BME people across Wales to discover your issues and needs, with the possibility of developing a bigger project.
You can contact Jenny Porter the Community Liaison Officer by email on jenny.porter@stonewallcymru.org.uk or by phone on 01492 622202, information will be treated with confidentiality.
Ydych chi’n berson Lesbiaidd, Hoyw neu Ddeurywiol o gefndir Du neu Leiafrif Ethnig yng Nghymru? Rydym am glywed oddi wrthych!
Ydych chi’n lesbiaidd, hoyw neu ddeurywiol ac o gymuned ddu, leiafrifol neu ethnig?
Os felly, hoffem glywed oddi wrthych am y pwyntiau da a’r anawsterau a ddaw yn sgil y ddwy hunaniaeth, a sut brofiad yw byw mewn cymuned yng Nghymru. Rydym yn cynnal prosiect ymholi syml yng ngogledd Cymru, ond hoffem glywed gan bobl LHD o gefndir du a lleiafrifoedd ethnig ledled Cymru er mwyn darganfod eich pryderon a’ch anghenion, gyda’r posibilrwydd o ddatblygu prosiect mwy.
Gallwch gysylltu gyda Jenny Porter, y Swyddog Cyswllt Cymunedol, drwy anfon ebost at jenny.porter@stonewallcymru.org.uk neu drwy ffonio 01492 622202, bydd yr holl wybodaeth a dderbynnir yn cael ei drin yn gyfrinachol.
Ele Hicks
Swyddog Polisi a Phrosiectau / Projects and Policy Officer
Stonewall Cymru
Transport House
1 Heol y Gadeirlan / 1 Cathedral Road
Caerdydd / Cardiff
CF11 9SB.
Ffôn / Phone: 029 20237744
www.stonewallcymru.org.uk
Enw a chyfeiriad cofrestredig: Stonewall Equality Ltd, Tower Building, York Road, London SE1 7NX
Cofrestredig yng Nghymru a Lloegr
Rhif cofrestru 02412299
Rhif TAW 862 9064 05
Elusen gofrestredig rhif 1101255
Registered name and address: Stonewall Equality Ltd, Tower Building, York Road, London SE1 7NX
Registered in England and Wales
Registration number 02412299
VAT number 862 9064 05
Registered Charity number 1101255
Are you Black Minority Ethnic and Lesbian, Gay or Bisexual in Wales? We want to hear from you!
Do you identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual and are from a black, minority or ethnic community?
If so, we would like to hear from you about the good points and difficulties that come with having both identities, and what its like living in a community in Wales. This is a simple enquiry project based in North Wales, but we would like to hear from LGB BME people across Wales to discover your issues and needs, with the possibility of developing a bigger project.
You can contact Jenny Porter the Community Liaison Officer by email on jenny.porter@stonewallcymru.org.uk or by phone on 01492 622202, information will be treated with confidentiality.
Ydych chi’n berson Lesbiaidd, Hoyw neu Ddeurywiol o gefndir Du neu Leiafrif Ethnig yng Nghymru? Rydym am glywed oddi wrthych!
Ydych chi’n lesbiaidd, hoyw neu ddeurywiol ac o gymuned ddu, leiafrifol neu ethnig?
Os felly, hoffem glywed oddi wrthych am y pwyntiau da a’r anawsterau a ddaw yn sgil y ddwy hunaniaeth, a sut brofiad yw byw mewn cymuned yng Nghymru. Rydym yn cynnal prosiect ymholi syml yng ngogledd Cymru, ond hoffem glywed gan bobl LHD o gefndir du a lleiafrifoedd ethnig ledled Cymru er mwyn darganfod eich pryderon a’ch anghenion, gyda’r posibilrwydd o ddatblygu prosiect mwy.
Gallwch gysylltu gyda Jenny Porter, y Swyddog Cyswllt Cymunedol, drwy anfon ebost at jenny.porter@stonewallcymru.org.uk neu drwy ffonio 01492 622202, bydd yr holl wybodaeth a dderbynnir yn cael ei drin yn gyfrinachol.
Ele Hicks
Swyddog Polisi a Phrosiectau / Projects and Policy Officer
Stonewall Cymru
Transport House
1 Heol y Gadeirlan / 1 Cathedral Road
Caerdydd / Cardiff
CF11 9SB.
Ffôn / Phone: 029 20237744
www.stonewallcymru.org.uk
Enw a chyfeiriad cofrestredig: Stonewall Equality Ltd, Tower Building, York Road, London SE1 7NX
Cofrestredig yng Nghymru a Lloegr
Rhif cofrestru 02412299
Rhif TAW 862 9064 05
Elusen gofrestredig rhif 1101255
Registered name and address: Stonewall Equality Ltd, Tower Building, York Road, London SE1 7NX
Registered in England and Wales
Registration number 02412299
VAT number 862 9064 05
Registered Charity number 1101255
Monday, September 07, 2009
Downsizing - Potential for Punitive Measures
The Local Government Information Unit England, is calling for a fundamental overhaul of social housing policy that could have an impact on allocations of existing social housing tenancy’s. The report states that Councils should be given more freedom to offer different types of social tenancy to tackle overcrowding. A recent report prepared by Conservative run Westminster Council states that there are major disparities between the number of houses overcrowded and the number of housing being under occupied and recommends ways to improve the supply of social housing, the allocation of properties, mobility between properties, and the wider support needs of tenants.
There are many tenants in Wales where downsizing may be an attractive proposition releasing much needed family accommodation to the register, however their finance’s may not permit them to do so. The Welsh Tenants Federation have long advocated for a better voluntary downsizing scheme in Wales to enable better use of social housing properties and importantly this will not require recourse to a punitive tenancy right changes.
For further information about the proposals contact Steve Clarke, policy and projects coordinator.
There are many tenants in Wales where downsizing may be an attractive proposition releasing much needed family accommodation to the register, however their finance’s may not permit them to do so. The Welsh Tenants Federation have long advocated for a better voluntary downsizing scheme in Wales to enable better use of social housing properties and importantly this will not require recourse to a punitive tenancy right changes.
For further information about the proposals contact Steve Clarke, policy and projects coordinator.
Monday, August 03, 2009
NATIONAL CONVERSATION - 2ND PHASE
The National Conversation is your chance to tell the TSA what services are most important to you as a tenant or shared owner of a housing association, council or co-op or if you live in a home managed by an ALMO. Landlords are encouraged to take part too. By helping them to fine-tune the standards they've drafted, you can make sure you get excellent service from your landlord in future.
You can take part in the National Conversation in many ways.
Their website is www.nationalconversation.co.uk
*Respond to the discussion paper*
*You should be able to follow the following links by holding Ctrl and right-click on your mouse.*
Help fine-tune the draft standards by responding in writing to the discussion paper. They've published both *a summary*
and *a full version*
for you.
You can also read an *executive summary*
, *the summary*
or the *full report*
of what tenants and landlords said in the first phase of the National Conversation.
*Go to an event*
Go along to one of the half-day events they're holding in London and Manchester. Or drop in at one the range of events and conferences they're taking part in this summer.
*Take part in an event organised by your landlord*
Lots of social housing landlords are running events with their tenants. Contact yours to find out if they're holding one and how you can take part.
*Hold your own Local Conversation*
Meet up with your friends and neighbours to talk about what you all think of the plans. Download a *resource pack*
to help you run your meeting.
*Make a film *
Tell the TSA on camera what's important to you. Get them to film you at the CIH conference
in Harrogate or simply upload your own film to their YouTube channel.
Come on a Conversation at Trafford Hall
Trafford Hall are holding two facilitated Conversations for any tenants or landlords that want to get involved in the feedback. You will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns and any issues you may have with other interested tenants and landlord representatives from other areas. Your feedback will be fed into the National Conversation.
The facilitator for the day is Tim Morton from Engage Associates - many of you may have been on policy consultation events Tim has facilitated here in the past.
Cost of the day is £60 including lunch and refreshments. There are no free places.
Dates : Thursday 6 August - 10.00am 4.00 pm.
Thursday 27 August - 10.00am 4.00 pm.
To book places on either of these dates, please contact Clair Lawton on 01244 300246 or email mc.lawton@traffordhall.com
.
Please remember that you can take part in the Conversation at no cost to yourself by following the links from the National Conversation website.
You can take part in the National Conversation in many ways.
Their website is www.nationalconversation.co.uk
*Respond to the discussion paper*
*You should be able to follow the following links by holding Ctrl and right-click on your mouse.*
Help fine-tune the draft standards by responding in writing to the discussion paper. They've published both *a summary*
and *a full version*
for you.
You can also read an *executive summary*
, *the summary*
or the *full report*
of what tenants and landlords said in the first phase of the National Conversation.
*Go to an event*
Go along to one of the half-day events they're holding in London and Manchester. Or drop in at one the range of events and conferences they're taking part in this summer.
*Take part in an event organised by your landlord*
Lots of social housing landlords are running events with their tenants. Contact yours to find out if they're holding one and how you can take part.
*Hold your own Local Conversation*
Meet up with your friends and neighbours to talk about what you all think of the plans. Download a *resource pack*
to help you run your meeting.
*Make a film *
Tell the TSA on camera what's important to you. Get them to film you at the CIH conference
in Harrogate or simply upload your own film to their YouTube channel.
Come on a Conversation at Trafford Hall
Trafford Hall are holding two facilitated Conversations for any tenants or landlords that want to get involved in the feedback. You will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns and any issues you may have with other interested tenants and landlord representatives from other areas. Your feedback will be fed into the National Conversation.
The facilitator for the day is Tim Morton from Engage Associates - many of you may have been on policy consultation events Tim has facilitated here in the past.
Cost of the day is £60 including lunch and refreshments. There are no free places.
Dates : Thursday 6 August - 10.00am 4.00 pm.
Thursday 27 August - 10.00am 4.00 pm.
To book places on either of these dates, please contact Clair Lawton on 01244 300246 or email mc.lawton@traffordhall.com
.
Please remember that you can take part in the Conversation at no cost to yourself by following the links from the National Conversation website.
Digital Switchover in West Wales
There is under a month to go until the first stage of switchover for the Kilvey Hill, Preseli and Carmel transmitter groups, serving the Swansea area; south-west Wales; and parts of south and central Wales respectively, in the Wales TV region. We are now commencing the final wave of our communications to ensure viewers know when switchover is happening and what to do.
As you know, switchover is a two-stage process:
• Switchover begins at the Kilvey Hill transmitter group, serving 132,000 households, on Wednesday, 12 August 2009 and ends on Wednesday, 9 September 2009
• Switchover begins at the Preseli transmitter group, serving 83,000 households, on Wednesday, 19 August 2009 finishing on Wednesday, 16 September 2009.
• Switchover begins at the Carmel transmitter group, serving 110,000 households, on Wednesday, 26 August 2009 finishing on Wednesday, 23 September 2009.
Switchover will make Freeview available from all 55 relay transmitters for the first time. They carry analogue TV now, but will start broadcasting up to 20 of the most watched Freeview channels at switchover. Once complete, Freeview coverage across the Wales will have been extended from 63 per cent to 98 per cent of households.
On-screen messaging is resuming to remind analogue viewers that they must convert to digital and local advertising will continue. At the two stages of switchover there will be 12 advice points managed by local charities where people can drop in for face-to-face help, as follows:
• Kilvey Hill: Swansea, Neath, Port Talbot, Burry Port
• Preseli : Haverfordwest, Cardigan, Tenby, Carmarthen
• Carmel : Carmarthen, Llanelli, Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells.
There will also be three roadshows at both stages of switchover in Swansea, Haverfordwest and Carmarthen.
Viewers who already have digital TV or who use Freeview, Top Up TV or BT Vision boxes will need to retune their equipment at both stages of switchover.
As always, if there is any matter that I can help you with concerning switchover, then please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to discuss it with you.
Elinor Phillips
Wales Team Co-ordinator
PS. Please note: All Freeview, Top Up TV and BT Vision viewers in Wales will need also to retune their equipment on 9 September in order to continue receiving S4C.
Digital UK
c/a: S4C l Parc Ty Glas l Llanisien/Llanishen l
Caerdydd/Cardiff l CF14 5DU
e: wales@digitaluk.co.uk
g/w: www.digitaluk.co.uk
Digital TV switchover happens in Wales in 2009 and 2010, starting in west Wales on 12 August this year. Visit our postcode checker - www.digitaluk.co.uk - to find out when you switch, or ring our helpline - 08456 50 50 50.b
As you know, switchover is a two-stage process:
• Switchover begins at the Kilvey Hill transmitter group, serving 132,000 households, on Wednesday, 12 August 2009 and ends on Wednesday, 9 September 2009
• Switchover begins at the Preseli transmitter group, serving 83,000 households, on Wednesday, 19 August 2009 finishing on Wednesday, 16 September 2009.
• Switchover begins at the Carmel transmitter group, serving 110,000 households, on Wednesday, 26 August 2009 finishing on Wednesday, 23 September 2009.
Switchover will make Freeview available from all 55 relay transmitters for the first time. They carry analogue TV now, but will start broadcasting up to 20 of the most watched Freeview channels at switchover. Once complete, Freeview coverage across the Wales will have been extended from 63 per cent to 98 per cent of households.
On-screen messaging is resuming to remind analogue viewers that they must convert to digital and local advertising will continue. At the two stages of switchover there will be 12 advice points managed by local charities where people can drop in for face-to-face help, as follows:
• Kilvey Hill: Swansea, Neath, Port Talbot, Burry Port
• Preseli : Haverfordwest, Cardigan, Tenby, Carmarthen
• Carmel : Carmarthen, Llanelli, Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells.
There will also be three roadshows at both stages of switchover in Swansea, Haverfordwest and Carmarthen.
Viewers who already have digital TV or who use Freeview, Top Up TV or BT Vision boxes will need to retune their equipment at both stages of switchover.
As always, if there is any matter that I can help you with concerning switchover, then please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to discuss it with you.
Elinor Phillips
Wales Team Co-ordinator
PS. Please note: All Freeview, Top Up TV and BT Vision viewers in Wales will need also to retune their equipment on 9 September in order to continue receiving S4C.
Digital UK
c/a: S4C l Parc Ty Glas l Llanisien/Llanishen l
Caerdydd/Cardiff l CF14 5DU
e: wales@digitaluk.co.uk
g/w: www.digitaluk.co.uk
Digital TV switchover happens in Wales in 2009 and 2010, starting in west Wales on 12 August this year. Visit our postcode checker - www.digitaluk.co.uk - to find out when you switch, or ring our helpline - 08456 50 50 50.b
DIGITAL SWITCHOVER IN NORTH WALES
It is only around 100 days to go before digital TV switchover starts in north Wales:
· The Llanddona transmitter group with its 22 relays, serving c.95,000 homes in North west Wales switches in two stages on 21 October and 18 November 2009
· The Moel Y Parc transmitter group with its 20 relays, serving c.179,000 homes in north east Wales switches in two stages on 28 October and 25 November 2009
· The Long Mountain transmitter group with its 14 relays, serving c.24,000 homes in parts of east and central Wales switches in two stages on 4 November and 3 December 2009
Our latest research indicates good levels of awareness about the forthcoming change to terrestrial TV services and that the majority of viewers are well prepared:
· Nine out of ten households in the North Wales area (90%) have already connected their main set to digital TV.
· Seven out of ten people in the North Wales area (71%) know precisely what to do for switchover against 70% in the nations/regions yet to switch.
All households will shortly be sent a 20-page guide to switchover, which explains their options for going digital, what happens during switchover and the need to retune. On-screen captions on analogue channels will resume shortly telling viewers to get ready. These will be backed up by TV, press and radio advertising, reminding viewers of the date and their options for going digital.
The Switchover Help Scheme (helpscheme.co.uk) has sent out information packs to all eligible older and disabled people in the last few months. People must respond to the Help Scheme to get help - if they do not reply, they will be contacted twice more before switchover. The Help Scheme will be reaching out to the wider community to encourage people to tell older and disabled relatives, friends and neighbours about the help they can receive to convert one TV set to digital.
Our lead charity covering the Llanddona transmitter group area is Care and Repair Gwynedd, which is co-ordinating charity and volunteer organisation activity, including joint training with the Help Scheme. Age Concern North East Wales is the lead charity for the Moel Y Parc transmitter group area and PAVO (Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations) is the lead charity for the Long Mountain transmitter group area. Charities will be encouraged to carry out presentations, events and one-to-ones, continuing until a month after switchover. A small grants programme is made available to assist with this.
Emyr Byron Hughes
National Manager Wales, Digital UK
c/a: S4C l Parc Ty Glas l Llanisien/Llanishen l
Caerdydd/Cardiff l CF14 5DU
e: wales@digitaluk.co.uk
g/w: www.digitaluk.co.uk
· The Llanddona transmitter group with its 22 relays, serving c.95,000 homes in North west Wales switches in two stages on 21 October and 18 November 2009
· The Moel Y Parc transmitter group with its 20 relays, serving c.179,000 homes in north east Wales switches in two stages on 28 October and 25 November 2009
· The Long Mountain transmitter group with its 14 relays, serving c.24,000 homes in parts of east and central Wales switches in two stages on 4 November and 3 December 2009
Our latest research indicates good levels of awareness about the forthcoming change to terrestrial TV services and that the majority of viewers are well prepared:
· Nine out of ten households in the North Wales area (90%) have already connected their main set to digital TV.
· Seven out of ten people in the North Wales area (71%) know precisely what to do for switchover against 70% in the nations/regions yet to switch.
All households will shortly be sent a 20-page guide to switchover, which explains their options for going digital, what happens during switchover and the need to retune. On-screen captions on analogue channels will resume shortly telling viewers to get ready. These will be backed up by TV, press and radio advertising, reminding viewers of the date and their options for going digital.
The Switchover Help Scheme (helpscheme.co.uk) has sent out information packs to all eligible older and disabled people in the last few months. People must respond to the Help Scheme to get help - if they do not reply, they will be contacted twice more before switchover. The Help Scheme will be reaching out to the wider community to encourage people to tell older and disabled relatives, friends and neighbours about the help they can receive to convert one TV set to digital.
Our lead charity covering the Llanddona transmitter group area is Care and Repair Gwynedd, which is co-ordinating charity and volunteer organisation activity, including joint training with the Help Scheme. Age Concern North East Wales is the lead charity for the Moel Y Parc transmitter group area and PAVO (Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations) is the lead charity for the Long Mountain transmitter group area. Charities will be encouraged to carry out presentations, events and one-to-ones, continuing until a month after switchover. A small grants programme is made available to assist with this.
Emyr Byron Hughes
National Manager Wales, Digital UK
c/a: S4C l Parc Ty Glas l Llanisien/Llanishen l
Caerdydd/Cardiff l CF14 5DU
e: wales@digitaluk.co.uk
g/w: www.digitaluk.co.uk
TENANTS VOTE YES TO TRANSFER TO TAI CALON
At 5pm on 23rd July, an announcement was made at Blaenau Gwent’s civic offices in Ebbw Vale on whether tenants have voted to transfer the housing stock to Tai Calon or remain with the council.
The majority of tenants voted to transfer to Tai Calon Community Homes, a new community housing mutual set up to inherit the council housing in Blaenau Gwent. The result of the ballot is as follows:
Turnout: 55%
Yes: 73%
No: 27%
The majority of tenants voted to transfer to Tai Calon Community Homes, a new community housing mutual set up to inherit the council housing in Blaenau Gwent. The result of the ballot is as follows:
Turnout: 55%
Yes: 73%
No: 27%
New housing powers sought to protect social housing and rights of tenants
The Welsh Assembly Government today (Tuesday) announced that it was going to seek new, more wide ranging powers to modernise social housing.
Ensuring better quality and more affordable housing remains a top priority for the Welsh Assembly Government and we have undertaken a thorough review of policies over the past two years. This fresh thinking is set out in the draft National Housing Strategy, Supporting People Strategy and Homelessness plans as well as our work with partners to implement the Essex Review. All of these will be complete and published in the autumn.
These strategies address the challenges facing housing through the current economic climate, including the tightening public purse, but also challenges such as climate change which we will face over the long term.
We are now seeking powers so that the Welsh Assembly Government has the legislative and regulatory tools to deliver our vision, and to respond innovatively to future policy challenges.
The new housing Legislative Competence Order will incorporate the aims of the Affordable Housing LCO to preserve social housing stock, which is being withdrawn from Parliament.
It will seek to modernise the system, meet tenants aspirations for home equity ownership and reform the Right to Buy scheme.
Deputy Minister for Housing Jocelyn Davies said:
“There have been some considerable developments in housing since 2007, not least the economic downturn which has impacted on the availability of homes and mortgages.
“Work is already underway to seek additional powers so that we’re able to deliver our wider housing ambitions and it makes sense to incorporate our commitments within the previous LCO into one wide-ranging LCO.
“Since 2007 we have done some considerable work in the area of affordable housing.
“We must look at how we can preserve and protect social housing for tenants now and in the future for the people of Wales.
“We now need powers to deliver social housing that takes on board the Essex Report and our strategies which cover national housing, homelessness and supported housing.”
The Assembly Government needs to address the considerable developments in housing to address the impact of the recession as well as the longer term problems of access to affordable housing and climate change.
The previous LCO looked only at the disposal of land by social landlords but this new LCO will look at much more: supported housing, the recommendations of the Essex Review and powers over tenancy law.
Housing remains a top priority for the Assembly Government and Ministers and officials look forward to working with the Secretary of State for Wales, who has said he will work with the Assembly Government to deliver this.
Ensuring better quality and more affordable housing remains a top priority for the Welsh Assembly Government and we have undertaken a thorough review of policies over the past two years. This fresh thinking is set out in the draft National Housing Strategy, Supporting People Strategy and Homelessness plans as well as our work with partners to implement the Essex Review. All of these will be complete and published in the autumn.
These strategies address the challenges facing housing through the current economic climate, including the tightening public purse, but also challenges such as climate change which we will face over the long term.
We are now seeking powers so that the Welsh Assembly Government has the legislative and regulatory tools to deliver our vision, and to respond innovatively to future policy challenges.
The new housing Legislative Competence Order will incorporate the aims of the Affordable Housing LCO to preserve social housing stock, which is being withdrawn from Parliament.
It will seek to modernise the system, meet tenants aspirations for home equity ownership and reform the Right to Buy scheme.
Deputy Minister for Housing Jocelyn Davies said:
“There have been some considerable developments in housing since 2007, not least the economic downturn which has impacted on the availability of homes and mortgages.
“Work is already underway to seek additional powers so that we’re able to deliver our wider housing ambitions and it makes sense to incorporate our commitments within the previous LCO into one wide-ranging LCO.
“Since 2007 we have done some considerable work in the area of affordable housing.
“We must look at how we can preserve and protect social housing for tenants now and in the future for the people of Wales.
“We now need powers to deliver social housing that takes on board the Essex Report and our strategies which cover national housing, homelessness and supported housing.”
The Assembly Government needs to address the considerable developments in housing to address the impact of the recession as well as the longer term problems of access to affordable housing and climate change.
The previous LCO looked only at the disposal of land by social landlords but this new LCO will look at much more: supported housing, the recommendations of the Essex Review and powers over tenancy law.
Housing remains a top priority for the Assembly Government and Ministers and officials look forward to working with the Secretary of State for Wales, who has said he will work with the Assembly Government to deliver this.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Supporting Communities/ Transforming Lives
Welsh Tenants Federation Conference and AGM 2009
2nd July, The Orbit Centre, Merthyr Tydfil.
Attention all Members - Its that time of year again!!
Come and join us for our AGM this year, where you can find out what we have been up to over the last year and our plans for the future. Have you say and vote on any resolutions put forward by you the members and vote for new management committee members (where applicable).
During the conference part of the day, there will be interesting speakers and enjoyable workshops where you can learn new things and gain new skills.
One of our exciting workshops will show you how to use social media sites - by the end of the session you will have a facebook page and new friends!
NB/ Only 'Full' Members are eligible to vote at the AGM
2nd July, The Orbit Centre, Merthyr Tydfil.
Attention all Members - Its that time of year again!!
Come and join us for our AGM this year, where you can find out what we have been up to over the last year and our plans for the future. Have you say and vote on any resolutions put forward by you the members and vote for new management committee members (where applicable).
During the conference part of the day, there will be interesting speakers and enjoyable workshops where you can learn new things and gain new skills.
One of our exciting workshops will show you how to use social media sites - by the end of the session you will have a facebook page and new friends!
NB/ Only 'Full' Members are eligible to vote at the AGM
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Implementing Essex: Have your say in delivering change.
Implementing Essex: Have your say in delivering change.
Since publishing the Essex Report last year the Welsh Assembly Government, Community Housing Cymru, the Welsh Local Government Association and social housing sector in Wales have been finding ways to ease the delivery of affordable housing in Wales. We are holding two seminar events to give stakeholders a chance to hear about and influence work in progress.
Six Workshops held at the seminars will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to give us their views and help us shape what will happen in the future.
The dates and venues are –
North Wales 27th April - Venue Cymru, Llandudno
South Wales 29th April - Liberty Stadium, Swansea
Workshops held in both the morning and afternoon will cover:-
· A new Social Housing Grant system
· A new Regulatory Framework for Welsh RSLs
Workshops held either in the morning or afternoon will cover:-
· A new Intermediate Rent product
· Making best use of public sector land
· The Local Authority strategic housing role
· A potential Welsh Housing Bond
Delegate costs are £50 per head (to cover costs only) and includes lunch.
For booking information please contact Community Housing Cymru on 02920 557400
http://www.chcymru.org.uk/essex-review/index.html
Since publishing the Essex Report last year the Welsh Assembly Government, Community Housing Cymru, the Welsh Local Government Association and social housing sector in Wales have been finding ways to ease the delivery of affordable housing in Wales. We are holding two seminar events to give stakeholders a chance to hear about and influence work in progress.
Six Workshops held at the seminars will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to give us their views and help us shape what will happen in the future.
The dates and venues are –
North Wales 27th April - Venue Cymru, Llandudno
South Wales 29th April - Liberty Stadium, Swansea
Workshops held in both the morning and afternoon will cover:-
· A new Social Housing Grant system
· A new Regulatory Framework for Welsh RSLs
Workshops held either in the morning or afternoon will cover:-
· A new Intermediate Rent product
· Making best use of public sector land
· The Local Authority strategic housing role
· A potential Welsh Housing Bond
Delegate costs are £50 per head (to cover costs only) and includes lunch.
For booking information please contact Community Housing Cymru on 02920 557400
http://www.chcymru.org.uk/essex-review/index.html
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
From CORGI to GSR
Many tenants will be aware that landlords are required to undertake gas safety checks including, flues, appliances and fittings annually. From the 1st April 2009 the old Corgi gas registration scheme has been replaced by the ‘GAS SAFE REGISTER’. The GSR is now the only authorized body recognized by government to undertake gas service checks.
From the 1st April only GSR registered engineers will be able to fulfill the statutory gas safety responsibilities as outlined by government. Gas appliances that have been tested prior to 1st April will still be valid until they expire. If you are not sure whether your gas engineer is properly registered with GSR this can be checked by visiting http://www.gassaferegister.co.uk If you require further information contact kerry@welshtenantsfed.org.uk
From the 1st April only GSR registered engineers will be able to fulfill the statutory gas safety responsibilities as outlined by government. Gas appliances that have been tested prior to 1st April will still be valid until they expire. If you are not sure whether your gas engineer is properly registered with GSR this can be checked by visiting http://www.gassaferegister.co.uk If you require further information contact kerry@welshtenantsfed.org.uk
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Breaking News - Gwynedd Council Tenants Vote YES! to stock transfer
Gwynedd Council yesterday received the results of the tenants vote in the ballot to decide whether they are in support of Gwynedd Council stock being transferred to a new housing association 'Gwynedd Community Homes'.
The results of the ballot was
Yes to transfer 72%
No to transfer 28%
The turnout was 65%
Numbers eligible to vote - 6,315
Following this result and a consultation period, the Council will now be able to move ahead to set-up the new and not-for-profit independent housing association. As with all other social housing landlords, Gwynedd Community Homes (GCH) will be regulated by the Welsh Assembly Government and run by a voluntary management board made up of four tenants, four Gwynedd councillors and four independent people chosen for their skills and experience.
Councillor Dyfed Edwards, Gwynedd Council Leader said:
“Tenants have told us they want the benefits that transfer would bring which gives us a clear mandate to move forward with the process of transferring our housing stock to Gwynedd Community Homes. This is good news for our tenants as it means substantial investment can be made to their homes.
“This has been a long consultation process and one of the largest that Gwynedd Council has ever undertaken. I am confident that we have done all we can to ensure that tenants received all the facts and I believe the high turnout is a reflection of this.”
The results of the ballot was
Yes to transfer 72%
No to transfer 28%
The turnout was 65%
Numbers eligible to vote - 6,315
Following this result and a consultation period, the Council will now be able to move ahead to set-up the new and not-for-profit independent housing association. As with all other social housing landlords, Gwynedd Community Homes (GCH) will be regulated by the Welsh Assembly Government and run by a voluntary management board made up of four tenants, four Gwynedd councillors and four independent people chosen for their skills and experience.
Councillor Dyfed Edwards, Gwynedd Council Leader said:
“Tenants have told us they want the benefits that transfer would bring which gives us a clear mandate to move forward with the process of transferring our housing stock to Gwynedd Community Homes. This is good news for our tenants as it means substantial investment can be made to their homes.
“This has been a long consultation process and one of the largest that Gwynedd Council has ever undertaken. I am confident that we have done all we can to ensure that tenants received all the facts and I believe the high turnout is a reflection of this.”
Monday, March 23, 2009
The Welsh Tenants Federation were sad to hear of the death of Chairman Alan Walter of Defend Council Housing. Alan died suddenly from a suspected massive heart attack at his home on Saturday 7th March. As a council tenant of Camden he was at the beginning of the DFH campaign when labour came to power in 1997. Alan argued passionately for direct investment in council housing and was an inspirational advocate for many who warmed to his dedication and enthusiasm for his cause. Alan leaves a family, and many friends and colleagues who will miss him deeply.
Messages of support and condolence to the family and friends can be emailed to info@defendcouncilhousing.org.uk
Messages of support and condolence to the family and friends can be emailed to info@defendcouncilhousing.org.uk
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Wales Audit office 'Lessons from Inspection'
As the housing Associations move to a new regulation regime in Wales, being recommended by the Essex Review of affordable housing published last June. The Wales Audit Office has produced the results of a series of larger housing association inspections undertaken in Wales. Entitled Lessons from Inspection 2005-2008. The review brings together findings from 29 inspections based against key criteria such as relationships with tenants. equal opportunities, lettings and maintenance of rented properties. The report highlights some weaknesses of housing regulation and inspection.
Steve Clarke, Policy and Projects Coordinator for the Welsh Tenants Federation said, "We welcome the review as a valuable contribution to the changing regulation and inspection regime in Wales. Clearly there are areas for improvement. We need to gain a better understanding of what successful housing service delivery looks like in Wales and how tenants expectations of housing service quality are delivered on the ground. There needs to be more transparency of the cost of that service delivery and the benefits it produces when seeking to make improvements to our homes and communities. The report highlights some of these issues and will no doubt help shape future regulation and inspection of the sector".
A copy of the report can be found at:
http://www.wao.gov.uk/assets/englishdocuments/Lessons_from_HA_inspection_eng.pdf
Alternatively you can contact Mark Woods on 029 2032 0520 or email mark.woods@wao.gov.uk for a hard copy.
Steve Clarke, Policy and Projects Coordinator for the Welsh Tenants Federation said, "We welcome the review as a valuable contribution to the changing regulation and inspection regime in Wales. Clearly there are areas for improvement. We need to gain a better understanding of what successful housing service delivery looks like in Wales and how tenants expectations of housing service quality are delivered on the ground. There needs to be more transparency of the cost of that service delivery and the benefits it produces when seeking to make improvements to our homes and communities. The report highlights some of these issues and will no doubt help shape future regulation and inspection of the sector".
A copy of the report can be found at:
http://www.wao.gov.uk/assets/englishdocuments/Lessons_from_HA_inspection_eng.pdf
Alternatively you can contact Mark Woods on 029 2032 0520 or email mark.woods@wao.gov.uk for a hard copy.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Finally, action on Sale and Rent back schemes
The Financial Services Authority and HM Treasury announced today that they are working with lenders to make sure they are treating mortgage customers in arrears fairly. Emphasis needs to be placed on the individual merits of each case, with possession only a last resort. They also announced that they will be regulating Sale and Rent back schemes under the offices of the FSA
Last year according to the Financial Service Authority (FSA) the number of people who had their homes repossessed in the second quarter of 2008 increased by 71 per cent. 11,054 homes were repossessed in the three months to the end of June 08, compared with 6,476 during the same three months of 2007. Repossessions were also significantly up in the last quarter of 2008. Early forecasts state that the first quarter of 2009 will fair no better for the sector.
The Welsh Tenants Federation welcomes the news following concerns last year, that all was not well with sale and rent back schemes. Steve Clarke, policy and projects coordinator said.
‘Brining Sale and Rent back schemes under the regulation of the FSA, is the best way to ensure that the consumer interest are safeguarded following some appalling cases last year. People faced with losing their homes due to rent arrears see these schemes as a lifeline to safeguard their home. However, some have found that the scheme does not protect them at all, being evicted in a relatively short time thereafter, or having their rents hiked to the extent that they can no longer afford the payments’.
‘Alongside measures introduced by the Welsh Assembly Government to provide regulated mortgage to rent schemes, we are pleased to see that action is finally being taken to protect vulnerable consumers affected by the recent financial turmoil. Finally, it appears that both ends of the spectrum are now being tackled’.
If you are in difficulties paying your mortgage or are facing repossession you should always talk to your lender and seek independent advice. Details about mortgage rescue schemes are available on the Welsh Assembly Government web site.
Telephone: 01685 729156 or 01685 729157, E-mail: shg@wales.gsi.gov.uk
For independent advice:
Contact Shelter Cymru on 0845 075 5005 or visit their website. http://www.sheltercymru.org.uk/shelter/home/
Your local Citizens Advice Bureau are in the phone book or visit their website. http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
Last year according to the Financial Service Authority (FSA) the number of people who had their homes repossessed in the second quarter of 2008 increased by 71 per cent. 11,054 homes were repossessed in the three months to the end of June 08, compared with 6,476 during the same three months of 2007. Repossessions were also significantly up in the last quarter of 2008. Early forecasts state that the first quarter of 2009 will fair no better for the sector.
The Welsh Tenants Federation welcomes the news following concerns last year, that all was not well with sale and rent back schemes. Steve Clarke, policy and projects coordinator said.
‘Brining Sale and Rent back schemes under the regulation of the FSA, is the best way to ensure that the consumer interest are safeguarded following some appalling cases last year. People faced with losing their homes due to rent arrears see these schemes as a lifeline to safeguard their home. However, some have found that the scheme does not protect them at all, being evicted in a relatively short time thereafter, or having their rents hiked to the extent that they can no longer afford the payments’.
‘Alongside measures introduced by the Welsh Assembly Government to provide regulated mortgage to rent schemes, we are pleased to see that action is finally being taken to protect vulnerable consumers affected by the recent financial turmoil. Finally, it appears that both ends of the spectrum are now being tackled’.
If you are in difficulties paying your mortgage or are facing repossession you should always talk to your lender and seek independent advice. Details about mortgage rescue schemes are available on the Welsh Assembly Government web site.
Telephone: 01685 729156 or 01685 729157, E-mail: shg@wales.gsi.gov.uk
For independent advice:
Contact Shelter Cymru on 0845 075 5005 or visit their website. http://www.sheltercymru.org.uk/shelter/home/
Your local Citizens Advice Bureau are in the phone book or visit their website. http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
WAG Consultation Paper - Sustainable Homes: A National Strategy For Wales
The Deputy Minister for Housing, Jocelyn Davies AM has launched the consultation document Sustainable Homes: A National Housing Strategy for Wales on 29th January. At the event, the Deputy Minister underlined the commitment to build more sustainable homes for the future, working with the registered social landlord and private sector to help regenerate areas of Wales.
The Deputy Minister also emphasised the need for the right mix of housing and that housing is the catalyst to improve lives and strengthening communities, making them more sustainable for the future by radically reducing the ecological footprint. This can only be achieved by working in partnership.
The launch took place in the Alway Centre, Broadheath Newport, where Newport City Council have been regenerating the area providing 250 new homes built by Bellway.
The Regeneration project, which has received a high level of community involvement, provides new shopping facilities, a community hall and a multi user games area. A training initiative has also been established with the local Hartridge comprehensive school.
Of the 250 new homes, 50 are part funded by Social Housing Grant to provide affordable rent or low cost home ownership via the Seren Group. The Council are also continuing their significant levels of programmed improvements to existing properties in the area. The hallmark of the whole project has been the extremely high degree of community involvement.
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Copies of the documents can be obtained from the Welsh Tenants Federation www.welshtenantsfed.org.uk or by visiting http://wales.gov.uk/consultations/housingcommunity/housingstrategy/?lang=en
The Deputy Minister also emphasised the need for the right mix of housing and that housing is the catalyst to improve lives and strengthening communities, making them more sustainable for the future by radically reducing the ecological footprint. This can only be achieved by working in partnership.
The launch took place in the Alway Centre, Broadheath Newport, where Newport City Council have been regenerating the area providing 250 new homes built by Bellway.
The Regeneration project, which has received a high level of community involvement, provides new shopping facilities, a community hall and a multi user games area. A training initiative has also been established with the local Hartridge comprehensive school.
Of the 250 new homes, 50 are part funded by Social Housing Grant to provide affordable rent or low cost home ownership via the Seren Group. The Council are also continuing their significant levels of programmed improvements to existing properties in the area. The hallmark of the whole project has been the extremely high degree of community involvement.
-----------------------
Copies of the documents can be obtained from the Welsh Tenants Federation www.welshtenantsfed.org.uk or by visiting http://wales.gov.uk/consultations/housingcommunity/housingstrategy/?lang=en
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
WTF news – help for landlord and tenant
Landlord Accreditation Wales Scheme
A Wales-wide scheme has been launched to provide advice and support to landlords to provide good, well managed accommodation.
The scheme aims to make it easier for landlords with single or smaller portfolios keep up with changing legislative and administrative requirements.
The landlord receives the accreditation, not the property. To become accredited a landlord will need to:
The scheme is supported by Local Authorities and key professional bodies. it will reduce disputes on property condition and tenancy issues. This will leave Councils more resources to deal with the landlords whose properties and management practices will not improve without intervention.
For more information visit the Landlord Accreditation website
A Wales-wide scheme has been launched to provide advice and support to landlords to provide good, well managed accommodation.
The scheme aims to make it easier for landlords with single or smaller portfolios keep up with changing legislative and administrative requirements.
The landlord receives the accreditation, not the property. To become accredited a landlord will need to:
- attend a one day development course
- agree to follow a code of conduct
- be a fit and proper person
The scheme is supported by Local Authorities and key professional bodies. it will reduce disputes on property condition and tenancy issues. This will leave Councils more resources to deal with the landlords whose properties and management practices will not improve without intervention.
For more information visit the Landlord Accreditation website
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