welsh housing awards 2014 policy/final english gpc 2014.pdf · driven (diversity, respect,...

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WELSHHOUSINGAWARDS2014

WELSHHOUSINGAWARDS2014W I N N E R

www.cih.org

Friday 21 November 2014The Vale Resort Hensol, nr Cardiff

GOOD PRACTICE COMPENDIUM

Sponsored byCymru

024 7646 0500www.housemark.co.uk

Rhannu yn eich llwyddiantSharing in your success

Rydym yn rhannu arfer da â’n haelodau

Mae ein gwasanaeth Arfer Da yn gysylltiad heb ei ail ag arferion, arweiniad a gwybodaeth ddibynadwy am dai, ac yn gymorth gan bartner sydd wedi hen ennill ei blwyf i’ch tywys chi drwy’r cyfnod cythryblus hwn.

Ffoniwch ein llinell gymorth Arfer Da ar 024 7647 2704 i gael gwybod mwy.

We share good practice with our members

Our Good Practice service provides you with an unrivalled gateway to housing information, guidance and practice you can trust, plus the support of a well-established partner to guide you through these turbulent times.

Call our Good Practice helpline on 024 7647 2704 to find out more.









Welsh Housing Awards 2014 | Good Practice Compendium 3

Welcome to the 2014 Welsh Housing Awards Good Practice Compendium sponsored by HouseMark Cymru.

If proof were needed that innovation continues

to thrive in the Welsh housing sector then this

collection of projects and initiatives from across

the country provide it. Now in its fifth year,

the compendium features the very best of this

year’s Welsh Housing Awards entries.

The range of entries was as diverse and

innovative as ever and the fact that the

challenges housing organisations continue to

face are if anything intensifying, make this all

the more remarkable.

Our sincere thanks again to HouseMark

Cymru for kindly sponsoring the compendium.

Without their continued support we would

be unable to shine the spotlight on such an

array of initiatives that have transformed

communities from Anglesey to Caldicot.

Every project shortlisted in the organisation

categories is featured in this publication. I

would also like to commend everyone who

was nominated in our individual categories of

Politician of the Year and Housing Hero; these

people are quite simply inspirational individuals

working within our sector, our organisations

and our communities day in and day out to

improve the lives of others.

Once again my fellow judges and I have been

genuinely impressed with the exceptionally

high standard of entries. The ingenuity and

imagination of housing professionals and

volunteers across all sectors is awe inspiring.

I would like to express special thanks to my

fellow judges, Jen Barfoot, Kirsty Ellis, Martin

Asquith, Clare Budden and Jules Birch for giving

up their valuable time to help make some

incredibly tough decisions on the shortlists and

overall winners, the toughest task of all.

The projects showcased here were the focus

of celebrations at the 2014 Welsh Housing

Awards, their more enduring value is captured

in this publication. It is our hope that you will

draw on the excellent practice outlined here

and make the links with colleagues to ensure

that the Welsh housing sector continues to

share its knowledge and expertise to the benefit

of the people and communities of Wales.

Stephen Cook Chair, CIH Cymru

Foreword by the Chair of CIH Cymru









4

TABLE OF SHORTLISTED PROJECTS Campaign of the year page

GoGirls Charter Housing with Bron Afon and partners 5

Ziggies RCT Homes and partners 5

Project EYE (Enabling Youth Entrepreneurs) NPT Homes with Valleys to Coast Housing 6

4

Best innovation by a local authority page

Personal housing planning pilot Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council and partners 6

The Bardsey and Ty Nesaf projects Ceredigion County Council and partners 7

New idea of the year page

North East Wales Homes Flintshire County Council and partners 16

Reducing landfill Bron Afon 16

Go4IT RCT Homes and partners 17

Faith in affordable housing Housing Justice and partners 17

Development of the year pageMaes Y Waen, Penmachno Cartefi Conwy and partners 11

HWB Dinbych Grw^ p Cynefin and partners 11

Restoration of the historic Vulcan House Wales & West Housing and partners 12

Empowering communities page

Board succession project Newport City Homes with Central Consultancy 12

Making a real difference Tai Calon Community Housing and partners 13

Space Saviours Valleys to Coast Housing and partners 13

Housing-led regeneration pageFormer Barry Magistrates Jehu Project Services with Newydd Housing and partners 9

Community Food Box Rhondda Housing Association with FareShare Cymru 10

Regeneration of Loudoun Square Cardiff Community Housing Association and partners 10

Innovative procurement pageArbed 2 scheme manager South Wales Melin Homes 14

Better procurement Tai Calon Community Housing 15

From the ground up Valleys to Coast Housing 15

Promoting equality and accessibility page

New gypsy site at Kings Meadow, Brecon Powys County Council and partners 18

DRIVEN (diversity, respect, innovation, values, equality, niche) First Choice Housing Association and partners 19

Croesawfa Cantref Foyer Cantref and partners 19

Own Two Feet Living Bron Afon 20

Most community focused contractor pageLocal spend local benefit M. Delacey & Sons and partners 7

Get into construction Jehu Project Services and partners 8

Community works R & M Williams and partners 8

Wear2Work Blake Morgan and partners 9


GoGirlsCharter Housing and Bron Afon in partnership with Chwarae Teg, Women’s Aid, Women’s Equality Network, Fixers UK, Leaves of Hope, University of South Wales, Vanessa Rogers, local schools and youth groups

GoGirls is a partnership between Charter Housing and Bron Afon. The project increases the confidence and self esteem of young women aged 15-25. It encourages young women to develop self-respect and belief in themselves and their abilities.

Through issue based workshops and monthly support meetings GoGirls raises awareness on subjects such as safer relationships, positive mental health and women’s equality. It empowers young women and builds their resilience, enabling them to cope better with life’s challenges.

GoGirls is about sharing ideas and thoughts of what it is like to be a young woman in Wales, aiming to develop a strong sense of identity, respect and pride! Its mission statement is ‘Together Girls Stand Strong!’

GoGirls are true to this and together they campaign and take action on subjects that matter to them.

Judges comments:

“This initiative demonstrates a positive proactive approach to domestic violence prevention and raises the aspirations of young women by supporting them into education, training and employment.”

Contact: Samantha Howells, Youth Projects Development Manager,Charter HousingT: 01633 678513E: [email protected]

ZiggiesRCT Homes in partnership with Sport RCT, Go4IT, Grew and RCT primary schoolsZiggies is a family engagement project that adopts a peer mentoring approach to giving parents the confidence to support their child’s reading through interactive story telling, craft and games.

Now in partnership with Sport Wales, Cardiff City Football Club, Swansea City Football Club and Sport RCT, Ziggies further supports families with physical literacy through the delivery of play to learn games and activities.

All activities are specifically designed to ensure grown ups have to support their children to complete them. This encourages team work, problem solving and promotes family fun. It also gives parents the confidence and self worth to realise that irrespective of their own literacy levels their support is key to their child’s development.

Weekly sessions run by parents are held in schools across Rhondda Cynon Taf, Caerphilly and Monmouth with hundreds of families benefiting from some carefully

designed, facilitated family fun - Ziggies style!

Judges comments:

“This project has demonstrated some successful outcomes in terms of improving literacy levels as well as joint working with adults and young people.”

Contact: Jo Thomas, Ziggies Co-ordinator,RCT HomesT: 07917 736926E: [email protected]

CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR Awarded for campaigns that:n are responding to a particular need or challenge that will impact on either the organisation,

tenants or the wider community;n can demonstrate successful partnership working with other organisations, where appropriate; andn can demonstrate a positive impact as a direct result of the project.


Welsh Housing Awards 2014 | Good Practice Compendium6

Project EYE (Enabling Youth Entrepreneurs)NPT Homes with Valleys to Coast Housing and partners

Young people, particularly from challenging backgrounds, lack the ability to fulfil their aspirations for self-employment often because they can’t access funding and business support. The Enabling Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) Project was set up by social landlords NPT Homes and V2C, in partnership with UnLtd. Project EYE was open to all individuals aged 16 - 24 in the Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend county boroughs who had business ideas that also provided a wider community benefit.

The project developed a suitable package of support, including business mentoring, access to expertise in marketing, finance, engagement mechanisms and financial assistance. Project EYE partnered with Big Ideas Wales for business support, local mentors experienced in setting up their own businesses, Youth Works for engagement opportunities, youth groups, local social enterprises and the local authorities.

Utilising the HACT social value calculator, the investment returned an overall benefit in excess of £100,000.

Judges comments:

“This excellent project is supporting young entrepreneurs to set up in business.”

Contact: Rachel Honey-Jones, Development Officer,NPT HomesT: 01639 506619E: [email protected]

Personal Housing Planning PilotNeath Port Talbot County Borough Council in partnership with Caer Las Cymru, Gofal Cymru and Dewis Housing

The Personal Housing Planning (PHP) pilot project was Welsh Government funded and involved Caer Las, Dewis and Gofal’s local, long-term, projects working in close partnership with the Neath Port Talbot County Council’s Housing Options Service, which employed the Project Co-ordinator. An on-line PHP tool was developed that ensured the options appraisals and action plans provided by all participating agencies were standardised and a Housing Solutions Compact Agreement that confirmed their commitment to deliver services in a manner consistent with Shelter’s Service User Standards Framework.

Feedback from all involved was very positive and the tool has continued to be used by the partners and Housing Options Staff engaged in homelessness prevention work. The tool will help both avoid duplication of effort and optimise collective outcomes in ensuring that all reasonable steps are taken to prevent homelessness.

Judges comments:

“This is a fine example of a local authority working collaboratively with the voluntary/third sector to provide high quality and consistent advice to people in housing need.”

Contact: Donna Evans, Personal Housing Planning Officer,Neath Port Talbot County Borough CouncilT: 01639 685219E: [email protected]

BEST INNOVATION BY A LOCAL AUTHORITY Awarded to a local authority that:n leads local partnerships to deliver housing solutions;n takes a strategic lead in community regeneration; andn promotes a multi agency approach.



The Bardsey and Ty Nesaf projectsCeredigion County Council in partnership with Community Rehabilitation Company, National Probation Service, The Wallich, Dyfed Powys Police, The Care Society, Cantref, West Wales Substance Misuse Service and Hywel Dda University Health Board

Ceredigion County Council and its partners have developed a truly holistic approach to working with some of the county’s most chaotic citizens. It has long recognised that through multi-agency partnership working, housing can deliver much more for clients and the community as a whole than simply a housing solution.

The Bardsey has for eight years worked with ex-offenders and prolific and priority offenders, many of whom are outside the statutory duty categories to provide stable accommodation and support, and a base from which all partner agencies can engage with or be engaged from. In 2014 Ty Nesaf opened as a natural progression of the project. It provides housing for clients who have exhausted all other avenues. There have been tangible social and financial

benefits to all services, but most notably, it has enabled clients to have the opportunity for more positive futures.

Judges comments:

“This impressive array of voluntary and statutory partners is offering stability to a challenging and chaotic client group.”

Contact: Sue Thomas, Housing Strategy Manager,Ceredigion County CouncilT: 01545 574131E: [email protected]

MOST COMMUNITY FOCUSED CONTRACTOR Awarded to a contractor that:n has a proven track record in embracing the targeted recruitment and training agenda, for

example through the i2i Can Do Toolkit;n can show innovative delivery of community benefits; andn can demonstrate practical examples of delivering corporate social responsibility objectives to

Welsh communities.

Local spend local benefitM. Delacey and Sons with Merthyr Valleys Homes

Merthyr Valleys Homes works with many contractors delivering great community benefits, but no one does it with more enthusiasm than Delaceys. With 70% of the Delacey workforce coming from Merthyr Tydfil the contribution they make to the local economy is very important. They are committed to creating opportunities for young people and have a ratio of 1 in 10 staff who are local apprentices.

The highlight of their community commitment last year was the work on the Coed Y Dderwen school. The school wanted to turn a vandalised ex caretakers home into a community IT centre. Delaceys acted as the main contractor carrying out most of the works and co-ordinated community benefit contributions from other smaller firms.

Krista Shotton acting deputy head teacher at Coed Y Dderwen said “they have helped us turn around an empty building in to a fantastic resource for the local community. We will be running training events bringing in parents and children into a safe learning environment.”

Judges comments:

“This small but committed contractor has made an impressive contribution to Welsh housing and communities by investing in local apprenticeships and preparing to undertake community regeneration projects.”

Contact: Jason Brown, Director, M. Delacey and SonsT: 01685 722245E: [email protected]



Get into constructionJehu Project Services in partnership with Cadwyn Housing Construction, The Prince’s Trust and Communities First

This project included general employability training, construction skills, first aid training, coaching for the CITB Apprenticeship Test, and individual support with CVs and job hunting. Alongside this, the young people researched and resourced materials in readiness for the work experience part of the project – spending a week building and repairing play equipment for a local school, under the watchful eye of an experienced Jehu Site Manager. This gave everyone the chance to experience a live site environment, working to the same standards as would be expected on a regular construction site.

Young people completing the course were offered an interview for apprenticeships on Cadwyn/Jehu developments. All five available apprenticeships were filled, and Jehu also recruited two temporary operatives; the remaining young people continue to work with Cadwyn and the Prince’s Trust to secure employment.

Judges comments:

“This contractor has demonstrated a clear commitment to community regeneration and engagement.”

Contact: Michelle Davis, Targeted Recruitment and Training Officer,Cadwyn Housing AssociationT: 07815 819920E: [email protected]

Community worksR&M Williams in partnership with Coastal Group and Caer Las Cymru

R&M Williams’ work with Coastal has delivered not only two unique refurbishment projects but created employment and training opportunities and provided a huge boost to four charitable projects.

At a time when charitable organisations face challenges in funding projects and sustaining much needed services R&M Williams have worked closely with Coastal to identify and support projects benefiting two homeless support and outreach projects, services for people with learning difficulties and an “Arts for all” group.

The practical repairs, construction and maintenance carried out for these groups has assisted in sustaining much needed services within Swansea and in turn will benefit a huge number of individuals.

Three trainees have achieved their NVQ requirements and two long term unemployed tenants returned to full time work with a great deal of personal support provided with Coastal preparing the individuals for interview and R&M Williams supporting their transition into work.

Through two small contracts and a proactive partnering approach R&M Williams show “Community Works”.

Judges comments:

“This contractor has demonstrated an impressive understanding of targeted recruitment and training as well as a willingness to directly help community projects.”

Contact: Clare Watkins, Targeted Recruitment and Training Manager, Coastal HousingT: 01792 479221E: [email protected]



Wear2WorkBlake Morgan in partnership with John Lewis and 10 Welsh housing associations

Wear2Work is a ‘Work Ready’ initiative for unemployed tenants of social housing providers in south Wales.

A collaboration between Blake Morgan, housing associations and John Lewis Partnership, the scheme helps tenants make the right impression when going to a job interview. The project provides them with suitable business wear donated by Blake Morgan employees, housing associations and other contacts and delivers workshops on confidence building, interview skills and CV writing.

Each tenant that participated, attended workshops which focused on confidence, the importance of body language, making a good impression at interview, how to prepare for an interview and tips to successfully pass the probation period once employed. Workshops were delivered by Blake Morgan staff who are experienced in HR and employment law. They also spent time with the John Lewis stylist and received an outfit selected by her which they were able to keep.

Judges comments:

“This is an outstanding example of how professional service providers can make a direct impact within our communities.”

Contact: Mererid McDaid, Associate,Blake MorganT: 029 2038 5607E: [email protected]

HOUSING-LED REGENERATION Awarded to projects which can demonstrate:n the development of new ways to finance investment;n improvement of the physical quality of homes in the community; andn making best use of existing homes by bringing empty properties back into use.

.Former Barry MagistratesJehu Project Services in partnership with Newydd Housing Association

The Barry Magistrates scheme has proved to be a very rewarding opportunity for Jehu. Engaging closely with the local community and indeed the wider construction and housing sector has enabled the contractor to showcase how good quality design and construction coupled with bespoke community engagement can transform the perception of construction sites and deliver so much more than bricks and mortar.

This project was never solely about the construction of 52 new homes. It was also about delivering the vision of creating work and training opportunities and inspiring others to consider entering the construction industry as a career.

Our aim is to put people at the heart of our work and we feel this project has achieved this by sharing our site with over 200 visitors to date. We hope this project not only leaves a fantastic new housing development but also a legacy for the future of construction projects.

Judges comments:

“This project features an outstanding design and is a superb example of bringing a landmark town centre site back into use for housing (and wider economic benefits).”

Contact: Marc Jehu, Managing Director,Jehu Project ServicesT: 07985 280837E: [email protected]


Community food box schemeRhondda Housing Association with FareShare Cymru

This unique pilot scheme provides nutritious community food boxes to vulnerable tenants living below the poverty line. This worked as a package of support to assist them with budgeting, reducing their rent arrears and engaging in community life. Referrals were made through a Financial Inclusion Officer targeting those who are experiencing severe financial hardship and adversely affected by the bedroom tax.

Often tenants who have financial problems can shy away from their landlords so gauging their interest with community food boxes was the first step in engagement and helped engender an understanding about the support and help available to them.

Old office space was used as a community hub which has revitalised the high street and created an open access invitation to those collecting their food boxes who also got to meet volunteers and staff.

Judges comments:

“This collaborative project with the third sector is delivering real benefits to local people.”

Contact: Natasha McCarthy, Financial Inclusion Officer,Rhondda Housing AssociationT: 01443 424212E: [email protected]

Regeneration of Loudoun SquareCardiff Community Housing Association in partnership with Cardiff Council, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Bouygues UK

The £13m regeneration of Loudoun Square in Butetown Cardiff has helped to transform one of the most deprived communities in Wales.

The project is a collaboration between Cardiff Community Housing Association (CCHA), Cardiff Council and the Cardiff and Vale Health Board. It was developed by Bouygues UK.

First developed in the 1960’s the area was in serious decline. The former site, consisted of derelict and boarded up housing, a block of dilapidated shops and a rundown health centre providing only rudimentary services. Community facilities were virtually non-existent and the general physical environment was very poor.

Today Loudoun Square is a very different story. 61 high-quality affordable homes, built to Sustainable Homes Code 4 and 5, sit alongside a vibrant parade of 11 new retail units, a state of the art health centre, a culture and media centre, three social enterprise units, a community hub housing council information services and a landscaped public square.

Judges comments:

“The scale of this regeneration project is truly impressive and demonstrates the provision of far more than just homes.”

Contact: Helen Ball, PR and Communications Co-ordinator,Cardiff Community Housing AssociationT: 029 2046 8427 E: [email protected]


Maes y Waen, PenmachnoCartrefi Conwy in partnership with Conwy County Borough Council and Rural Housing Enabler (Wales)

Cartrefi Conwy working in collaboration with Conwy County Borough Council and Conwy Rural Housing Enabler successfully completed their first new build development in the village of Penmachno, situated in Snowdonia National Park.

They worked with the community council to develop and carry out a Housing Needs Survey and prepared a report based on its findings that Cartrefi Conwy used as evidence to support the planning application.

The development is of great significance to the village, being the first new build development of social housing in 40 years. It will help ensure the community is maintained, safeguard the village school as well as protecting the Welsh language and culture.

The six houses have been built to high energy efficiency standards utilising renewable energy technology to fuel the properties. Timber frame construction was used for the structure utilising local supply merchants. The specification

for this scheme resulted in the properties being built to code 4 for sustainable homes.

Judges comments:

“This high quality state of the art scheme is meeting a very acute, rural housing need, using local labour and safeguarding the community of Penmachno”.

Contact: Wayne Bannister, Property Services Delivery Manager, Cartrefi ConwyT: 01745 335534E: [email protected]

HWB DinbychGrw^ p Cynefin in partnership with Denbighshire County Council, Grw^ p Llandrillo Menai and Denbigh Youth Project

HWB Dinbych is a cross sector partnership project which aims to increase employment, enterprise and further learning opportunities for young people and the wider community of Denbigh. The key partners are Grw^ p Cynefin, Denbighshire County Council, Grw^ p Llandrillo Menai, and Denbigh Youth Project. It is this unique cross sector partnership model that provided a ‘stairway’ for young people from inactivity and dis-engagement to training, volunteering and employment opportunities within a supported environment.

Six supported housing flats for young people were included in the building along with office spaces, counselling room, informal IT space, teaching kitchen and space for agency outreach work. A large multi-use space for youth groups is available as well as fitness classes, meeting hire and an educational facility with four classrooms. There is also a purpose built music technology studio, office space for starter businesses and a workshop.

This was a significant regeneration project and investment

within a Communities First area, transforming a former derelict brick-built garage.

Judges comments:

“This development features high quality design, meets the needs of a specific client group and supports employment and training.”

Contact: Mair Edwards, Community Development Manager,Grw^ p CynefinT: 0300 111 2122E: [email protected]

DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR Awarded to projects which demonstrate:n high levels of design and build quality;n engagement with the local community to ensure local support;n meeting the housing needs of the local community; andn value for money..



Restoration of the historic Vulcan HouseWales and West Housing in partnership with Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council

September 2013 saw the restoration of Merthyr Tydfil’s historic Vulcan House, providing much needed affordable housing for local people.

The 1820s Grade II listed building had previously fallen into dilapidation. Little evidence was visible of its historic importance as first a brewery, an iron foundry and latterly a meeting place for the Chartist movement. Matthew John, last of the Merthyr Chartists, had died in Vulcan House in 1888.

For the entirety of its restoration, Wales and West Housing worked with Cyfartha Junior School and the local community to unlock the site’s wealth of history and interpret their findings through artwork, poems and stories for all to enjoy.

Wales and West Housing and its partners have proven that with determination, passion, skill and courage other historic buildings in Merthyr Tydfil – and beyond – can be returned to their former glory, helping to meet the need for affordable homes and also regenerating and improving communities.

Judges comments:

“This technically complex project in a Grade ll listed building has provided new high quality affordable homes whilst preserving heritage.”

Contact: Nikki Cole, Head of Development,Wales and West HousingT: 029 2041 4093E: [email protected]

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES Awarded to projects which demonstrate:n provision of recognised training and education opportunities to residents;n an innovative approach to community development; andn involvement of customers directly in assessing, shaping and improving specific services.

.Board succession projectNewport City Homes with Central Consultancy

In 2013 Newport City Homes experienced low levels of interest in its Tenant Board Member vacancies. Recognising the valued contribution of tenants at a strategic level, Newport City Homes developed a plan to attract more nominations.

This consisted of three key elements:

• the ‘Preparing to be a Board Member’ accredited training programme;

• a targeted campaign to encourage resident interest in becoming a Board Member, and in Tenant Board Member elections;

• the ‘Board Academy’: an opportunity for residents to attend practical insight sessions on preparing reports and seeing these discussed at Board meetings and thereby understanding the process of decision-making.

Outcomes included:

• 26 expressions of interest and 10 applications for 5 vacancies;

• preparing to be a Board Member’ training adopted across the housing sector;

• 21 Board Academy members; and

• regular observers attendance at Board meetings.

Judges comments:

“This successful new programme is ensuring new recruits are available and ready to take on the role of board member.”

Contact: Joanna Fairley, Head of Corporate Services,Newport City HomesT: 01633 227644E: [email protected]



Space savioursValleys to Coast Housing in partnership with United Welsh, Tai Calon Community Housing and Bron Afon

Every open space has the potential to enhance the lives of people in the community, but one barrier to meaningful engagement is an understanding of the range of possible uses of an open space, and an appreciation of the impact of alternative uses.

What difference does it make if a field is full of wildflowers, not mown green grass? How are people encouraged to walk not drive? Why do children play outside much less than they used to? How much does it actually cost to create a community garden – and who’s going to look after it?

Space Saviours is a Lottery-funded partnership project between Valleys to Coast, United Welsh, Bron Afon and Tai Calon Community Housing to engage tenants and residents in an ambitious programme of learning around biodiversity, sustainable estate design, local growing and natural play. This is followed by a design phase around live projects to deliver real change in communities.

Judges comments:

“This initiative has demonstrated some good outcomes in terms of engagement and projects delivered.”

Contact: Rachel Morton, Community Regeneration Officer,Valleys to Coast HousingT: 01656 762431E: [email protected]

Making a real differenceTai Calon Community Housing in partnership with Communities First Ebbw Fach, Food Bank, Citizens Advice, Shelter Cymru, Job Centre, Seren and Joyners

Unemployment in Blaenau Gwent is amongst the highest in Wales. As the county’s largest social landlord, Tai Calon was determined to be more than just a provider of homes.

They also recognised that to help tenants/residents into training and work, they needed to tackle the other issues in their lives as well.

Work Club, run in partnership with Communities First Ebbw Fach, is innovative, different and life changing.

It is a one stop shop. Alongside its more conventional role, Work Club offers help and advice on everything from benefits to budgeting as well as debt management.

This fits in with Tai Calon’s strategy to:

• offer work placements and training opportunities;

• recruit locally, where possible, and encourage our contractors and suppliers to do the same;

• set up Clean and Green, a horticultural training programme for young people; and

• develop our own award winning OCN course to train students about customer care.

Judges comments:

“This innovative work club is building confidence and demonstrates some very successful outcomes.”

Contact: Hefina Rendle, Communications and Public Relations Manager,Tai Calon Community HousingT: 0300 303 1717 E: [email protected]


Arbed 2 scheme manager South WalesMelin Homes

As managing contractor for the Welsh Government’s Arbed 2 ERDF project in South and West Wales, Melin Homes has sent ripples of benefits to businesses and communities throughout the region.

Melin Homes has used its experience of delivering the Welsh Government’s Arbed 1 project as a client, to win the contract for the management of the Arbed 2 phase. The organisation’s aim was not simply to deliver the installation of energy saving measures but also gain significant sustainable community benefits, through training and employment, collaborative working and community initiatives, through procurement.

For Melin Homes, the flagship £45 million project was never just going to be about meeting the brief to provide better energy solutions to 2,000 plus homes over three years. Their fresh and dynamic outlook to procurement and delivery has encompassed improving lives, changing attitudes, enabling local SMEs to thrive and forging stronger, flourishing communities.

Judges comments:

“Arbed 2 has shown outcomes at all levels with measurable value to Welsh SMEs and communities. The community fund idea is an innovative one and the outcomes from this project in terms of jobs and training far exceed the standard”.

Contact: David Bolton, Assistant DirectorMelin HomesT: 01495 745910E: [email protected]

INNOVATIVE PROCUREMENT Awarded to projects that demonstrate:n more efficient delivery through restructured services;n ways of using resources more effectively;n working jointly with partners and customers to make services more efficient; and n developing the community benefits agenda..



Better procurementTai Calon Community Housing

A key aim of Tai Calon’s Procurement Strategy is to promote Blaenau Gwent and the people who live and work there through:

• community clauses in contracts and expectations that firms give materials or their time for free;

• expectations that businesses working on Welsh Housing Quality Standard sponsor prizes/support community days. Keepmoat, the largest WHQS contractor sponsored Tai Fest tenant fun day for the second year running in July, 2014;

• using the i2i Can Do Toolkit for Targeted Recruitment and Training – resulting in 14 apprenticeships;

• creating opportunities for local businesses either directly or via sub-contracts; and

• celebrating National Apprenticeship Week – this year Seren Contractors were looking for three apprentices and young hopefuls were invited along. Two were taken on - one young man had been working on Tai Calon’s horticultural training scheme, Clean and Green.

Judges comments:

“This initiative follows good practice and demonstrates outcomes for communities.”

Contact: Hefina Rendle, Communictions and Public Relations, ManagerTai Calon Community HousingT: 0300 303 1717E: [email protected]

From the ground upValleys to Coast Housing

What does an organisation with ‘Community Regeneration in Action’ as its strapline do with half a million square meters of open space? The answer was more than just mow it within an inch of its life.

How do you test the market for potential suppliers and communicate your vision to them? Through detailed market research and well-planned meet-the-buyer events.

How do you design a procurement process that is both ambitious as well as compliant? Ask the experts whilst engaging your procurement team to embed the learning.

What do you get? 36 firms submit stage one applications, 9 suppliers graduate onto a framework, targeted training opportunities and support to community projects as well as a 30% cost of contract saving.

Judges comments:

“This is a well considered process which follows good practice.”

Contact: Steve Curry, Community Regeneration Manager,Valleys to Coast HousingT: 01656 762445E: [email protected]


Reducing landfillBron Afon

Bron Afon has created a great partnership, promoted and developed with local charities. The wider community benefits now being achieved include essential household items being recycled and passed to those in desperate need, whilst also helping charities to raise funds to support local families.

Bron Afon supported local people to obtain jobs and once in those jobs, supporting longer term development promoting employees at the recycling centre to obtain NVQ’s in waste management, making them feel that they have a positive future.

The project has shown innovation and creativity developing a recycling unit. Not only is this providing excellent community benefits but it is also making a significant impact towards national environmental targets in reducing landfill and recycling at every opportunity.

Judges comments:

“This pioneering work has achieved some impressive results that could set a template for others to follow.”

Contact: David Smith, Logistics Manager,Bron AfonT: 07528 965252E: [email protected]

NEW IDEA OF THE YEAR Awarded to initiatives that demonstrate:n original thinking in the approach to improve a service and/or develop a specific project;n a dramatic improvement in the organisation’s own performance or that of its partner

organisations; andn a positive impact on the lives of tenants.

North East Wales (New) HomesFlintshire County Council in partnership with North East Wales Homes

Flintshire County Council is the first authority in Wales to set up its own housing company.

Designed to respond to the challenges experienced by residents in accessing affordable housing, North East Wales (NEW) Homes was set up by the Council to increase the housing options available to local residents. The company is providing accommodation to people on the affordable register who do not qualify for social housing but find it difficult to afford private rents.

By the end of next year 28 properties will be built and gifted to NEW Homes ownership. NEW Homes also offers services for landlords which include a ‘tenant ready’ service and a unique offer for home owners over 55, to lease their properties to the company and access suitable council accommodation.

The company is not in competition with other housing providers, but filling a gap in meeting need, particularly for the ‘squeezed middle’.

Judges comments:

“This is an innovative and fleet-of-foot response, Flintshire Council is taking risks and making a real difference.”

Contact: Katie Clubb, Community Support Services,Flintshire County CouncilT: 01352 703518E: [email protected]



Go4iTRCT Homes in partnership with Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council, Sport Wales, RCT Homes and Cwm Taff NHS

Go4it aims to get families with children under 11 living a more active and healthy lifestyle. This has been achieved in a number of ways:

• by providing taster sessions for families to try activities available to them in their locality;

• by developing a mobile download which holds information on hundreds of activities in RCT nearest to the user www.go4itnow.co.uk;

• by providing in house coaching to give the family the confidence to make lifestyle changes;

• by providing financial support to families to enable them to try something new;

• through home visits from a nutritionist and dietician to provide practical, affordable solutions to eating healthier; and

• by supporting individuals to become sports leaders and volunteers in their community.

To date Go4it has made significant changes to families’ lives in RCT with over 300 families signed up and attending sessions in their locality. Go4it is funded by Sport Wales and Families First and has a management group

with representatives from over 20 organisations committed to health improvement in RCT.

Judges comments:

“This is a good example of health and housing working together to promote sport and healthy living.”

Contact: Laura Perry, Go4iT Project Co-ordinator,Meadow ProspectT: 07881 264789E: [email protected]

Faith in affordable housingHousing Justice in partnership with Church in Wales, United Reformed Church, Presbyterian Church of Wales and other denominations, various RSLs and local authorities

Faith in Affordable Housing (Wales) is a project which encourages churches of all denominations to be part of the solution to housing need in Wales. The project supports churches in releasing redundant buildings and surplus land for sale or lease to local housing associations.

It actively encouraged churches to see housing as part of its mission to local communities and has resulted in a number of denominations adopting a policy on land disposal for affordable housing.

Since its launch, the project has been instrumental in building partnerships between churches and housing associations. This has resulted in a number of sites sold across Wales in areas of high housing need.

The project has been successful in calling for a strategic approach to the growing number of redundant church buildings in Wales. It has brought together the Welsh Government, CADW, housing associations and senior church representatives to focus on the potential for affordable housing, while safeguarding our heritage.

Judges comments:

“This initiative is effectively emphasising the role that institutional land owners can play in providing social housing once the case has been made.”

Contact: Sharon Lee, FIAH project Co-ordinator,Housing JusticeT: 07818 203249E: [email protected]


New gypsy site at Kings Meadow in BreconPowys County Council in partnership with Welsh Government, Brecon Beacons National Parks and Kier Construction

Kings Meadow is the first new Gypsy Traveller Site built in Wales since 1997. The development is an outstanding illustration of partnership working, clear leadership and excellent stakeholder engagement. The new site provides 10 pitches to meet an identified accommodation need and offers safety, security and benefits from satisfactory modern living conditions that will consequently improve health, education and wellbeing and give the families a decent quality of living for the first time in generations.

The Gypsy families are an important part of the cultural heritage of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Good Practice Guidance recognises that the Gypsy Traveller population in Wales is ethnically diverse and one of the most socially excluded groups in Britain. Avoiding frequent forced movement through eviction is seen as pivotal to tackling social exclusion.

The name Kings Meadow was chosen by Mr Trevor Smith, Head of the Smith Families in memory of his father who is fondly remembered within the Brecon Community as ‘King of the Gypsies’.

Judges comments:

“This is the first local authority owned gypsy site built since 1997 and the result of an impressive collaboration between partners to provide an eco friendly scheme in the heart of a national park.”

Contact: Caron Jones, Project Manager,Powys County CouncilT: 0870 8510354E: [email protected]

PROMOTING EQUALITY AND ACCESSIBILITY Awarded to:n a social enterprise that supports a specific needs group;n an innovative housing development that promotes diversity and inclusion;n a housing related project that supports people into independence.



DRIVEN (diversity, respect, innovation, values, equality, niche)First Choice Housing Association in partnership with Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board, Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, Swansea Council, Walsingham Council and Community Lives Consortium

First Choice Housing provides bespoke accommodation for vulnerable adults with a learning disability encouraging independent living. Working in partnership with the ABMU Health Board to deliver its Closer to Home Strategy has provided homes for people with a learning disability and challenging behaviour to return to their local community.

ABMU specialises in understanding the most suitable environment to support and improve the quality of the lives of individuals who present challenging behaviours and alongside First Choice has created an improved living environment promoting individual rights, independence and inclusion.

The inititaitve has resulted in significant revenue savings for the local authorities and enabled the health board to reinvest savings in the local area and long-term accommodation strategies. First Choice offers more than

just bricks and mortar, tailoring services to meet the tenant’s needs. It’s a forward thinking organisation that offers tenants increased independence and inclusivity.

Judges comments:

“This project meets the most basic criteria of respect in an innovative way – bringing people home!”

Contact: Donna Lloyd-Williams, Director of Corporate ServicesFirst Choice Housing AssociationT: 029 2071 3762E: [email protected]

Croesawfa Cantref FoyerCantref in partnership with Ieuenctid Cambria Youth, Coleg Ceredigion, Prince’s Trust, Rathbones, Careers Wales and Ceredigion County Council

Cantref, over the last year or so, has changed its focus to ensure that it strives to observe the Foyer ethos. Since starting the journey, culminating in a Foyer Validation Assessment, staff have actively engaged in delivering a support service that ensured young people’s experiences of disadvantage are turned into solutions that support their transition to adult independence.

The journey, the transition into independence, very much depends on the individual, where they have come from, the barriers they are facing and their aspirations for the future.

The support offered at the Foyer is aimed at developing social and independent living skills, developing a person’s confidence, improving health and wellbeing, hence increasing resilience and reducing boredom. The project does not assist with progression then ignore, but supports to sustain independence and advancement.

From finding new confidence to live more independently and make new friends to taking up new work and training

opportunities, the support offered makes a difference to service users.

Judges comments:

“This successful scheme is addressing the needs of young people and developing individuals!”

Contact: Louise Webster, Supported Housing Manager,Cymdeithas Tai CantrefT: 01239 712021E: [email protected]


Own two feet livingBron Afon

Own Two Feet Living Ty Cyfle is an innovative housing solution, pioneering in its approach, creating eight starter homes for young people with community connection hubs providing training and employability opportunities, encompassing life coaching principles to create independence.

This is a ground breaking, youth led project that will prevent homelessness. The project is creative and innovative in its approach, responding to the needs of the young people of Torfaen, helping young people to believe ‘change can happen’.

Young People are empowered to create ‘step change’ within the housing sector shaping how services are delivered, bringing to life a concept that provides solutions to a harsh reality. Young people are in the driving seat of working with strategic players to create new policies and procedures to make Ty Cyfle a unique housing model ‘that works’, based on co operative principles, marrying housing and people based regeneration together.

Judges comments:

“This project is reaching the hardest to reach and raising the confidence of young people.”

Contact: Maria Jones, Youth Projects ManagerBron AfonT: 01633 620125E: [email protected]

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