Housing NewsGreat Homes for Local Communities

AUTUMN 2020

Introduction from Cllr Francesca Smith (Housing Portfolio Holder)

Welcome to the Somerset West and Taunton Housing Newsletter. We have not produced a full newsletter for some time so there is lots of information in this edition which we hope you find useful. There is certainly lots going on and to tell you about.  This document is also available online at www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk .

We have all been through so much in the last few months, and as a landlord our main priority is to protect the wellbeing of our tenants and

this means continuing to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus.  We have put measures in place to limit non-essential face to face contact and whenever possible we will engage with you by phone, text, email or in writing. We continue to get all of our services back to a “new normal” where we can safely, but it will take us a bit more time to do this fully. While we do this, we thank you all for your ongoing support and patience. 

In this newsletter we also signpost you to a wide range of support that is available to you if you should need it, and I would encourage you all to make contact if you feel this is right for you. Lastly, you may in the coming weeks pick up in the media about current discussions concerning the future of Local Government in Somerset. We will keep you fully informed of any changes and any impact on tenants in due course.

SWT Housing ObjectivesWe have established three objectives for the Housing Service to support our ambition to provide Great Homes for Local Communities where our homes are safe and secure and we will build many more homes in which tenants will thrive.

1. Delivering more new homes2. Providing great customer service3. Improve our existing homes and neighbourhoods

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Responsive Repairs Throughout the coronavirus lockdown SWT continued to provide an essential emergency repairs service, ensuring we put in place measures to keep both residents and staff safe from coronavirus whilst work was carried out. We have put in place the necessary safety precautions to complete all work at a distance. If we have to enter your property to carry out a repair, we ask that you allow us to access and adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Please do not have work completed in your property if you or a member of your household has coronavirus symptoms. Instead please contact SWT immediately so we can re-book your repair.

Non-emergency repair requests were also logged during this time, and we have now started to tackle these tasks; again with appropriate safety measures in place. It will take some time to get through these and the incoming new repairs requests, so please bear with us as we work to catch up.

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Property Safety

Gas Safety Checks - The annual gas safety checks to all Council owned gas appliances were continued during the lockdown period, with required coronavirus additional safety measures in place. These checks are essential for your safety, so please make sure you provide access for our engineers when contacted to arrange an appointment.

Fire Safety - SWT has been continuing with regular inspections of communal areas to make sure these are kept clear to help keep everyone safe in the event of a fire. We are also looking to carry out some fire safety improvement works to some areas, e.g. replacement fire doors, upgrading emergency lighting, etc.

Asbestos - Following the easing of the lockdown, SWT is shortly due to recommence the asbestos survey programme to individual homes. Gulley Howard is the chosen contractor to undertake the surveys.  They are fully accredited asbestos surveyors and will undertake the surveys safely. You will be advised by letter if you are on this programme, they will need full access to all areas of your property.

Electrical Safety - Electrical safety checks to communal areas have recommenced following the easing of the coronavirus lockdown. SWT is now looking to plan electrical safety checks in individual homes, so again please help by allowing our electricians access if you are contacted.

Major Work ProgrammesAll major work programmes (e.g. kitchen/bathroom/window replacements, and heating upgrades) ceased during lockdown. SWT is arranging for contractors to start these works again once they are ready, as many furloughed their staff. We are working with all our contractors to ensure works can be undertaken safely, allowing for social distancing, and this may mean some works take longer to complete. We have returned to work on our external painting and replacement roof line (plastic gutters, rainwater goods, fascia and soffits) programme.

Supported Housing

During lockdown, SWT made phone calls to many tenants including all sheltered and extra care, to check on their welfare and remind our tenants of support available. SWT also referred to Village Agents for practical support for those shielding. Food parcels were delivered to tenants in crisis and in-person welfare checks for those not contactable by phone. Many tenants were also added to the Deane Helpline daily welfare calls schedule, to support those who were unable to get support from family or friends.

Sheltered tenants are receiving a monthly welfare check by phone. Home visits are made only when necessary and safe to do so. Tenants needing aids and adaptions are assessed by phone, and visited, where necessary to complete the assessment. Extra Care Tenants were requested not to have visitors, to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus. SWT staff and care providers have worked together to ensure tenants have food and medications and that they are not feeling isolated.

The Supported Housing Team and the patch areas they cover are listed below:

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Dawn Lingard, Case Manager Supported HousingTaunton - Calway Road, Harnell Close, Milton Close, Monmouth Road, Normandy Drive, Seabrook House, Trinity Road.

Fay Coleman, Case Manager Supported HousingWellington - Bovet Street, Bulford, George Street, Lodge Close.

Georgina Farebrother, Case Manager Supported HousingTaunton - Bruford Close, Chapman Court, Churchill Way, Henderson Close, Manor Drive, Middleway, Roland Close, Willie Gill Court, Tauntfield Close, Charter Walk, South Road.

Richard Lynett, Case Manager Supported HousingTaunton - Cheddon Road, Dowell Close, Kilkenny Court, Triscombe Road, Wellesley Street, Kingston St Mary, Leaches Field,

Michelle Dunn, Case Manager Supported HousingTaunton - Crossways, Moorland Close, Moorland Place, Newton Road, Ruishton - Dinhams, Stoke St Gregory - Polkesfield, Creech St Michael - Sycamore Walk.

Kath Jones, Case Manager Supported HousingTaunton - Broomfield House, Creedwell Close, Creedwell Orchard, Darby Way, Dorchester Road, Enmore Road, Quantock Road, Slapes Close, Wellington - Squirrel Court, Stedhams Close.Wiveliscombe - Plain Pond.

Deborah Ayres, Case Manager Supported HousingMonkton Heathfield - Bungalows Elm Estate, Heathfield Drive, Richards Crescent,Taunton - Fletcher Close, Grange Walk, Hope Corner Lane, Lyngford Place, Lyngford Road, Treborough Close, Warwick Road.

Help with RentIt is important that all tenants continue to pay their rent on time, if you’re already in receipt of benefits these will continue and if your Universal Credit includes an amount for your housing costs it’s important that you use this to continue to pay your rent as normal.

If you have been affected by coronavirus or self-isolation and this has meant you are going to miss a rent payment or not pay the full amount, then it is very important that you contact us as soon as possible on 0300 304 8000 so that we can discuss this further with you. SWT do not want anyone to lose their tenancy as a result of the virus. If you are having problems paying your rent either because you can’t pay by your usual method or you’re having financial difficulties, please call us on 0300 304 8000.

It is very easy for tenants to pay their rent without having to leave the house. We encourage all tenants to set up a Direct Debit, which is the simplest way to pay and this can be done by asking us to set this up by calling 0300 304 8000.

Council Tax SupportIf you are making a claim for Universal Credit and you are liable for Council Tax please call our Benefit Case Managers on 0300 304 8000 to make a claim for Council Tax Support. Normally we receive a notice from the Department for Work and Pensions once you receive Universal Credit. This can take several weeks so we are asking you to call our Benefit Case Managers immediately to see if we can award you any help with your Council Tax quickly. We will carry out a telephone claim and award support based on your income until we get your Universal Credit award details.

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Reopening of Sheltered Housing and Extra Care Meeting HallsSWT plan to partially re-open meeting halls at the extra care and sheltered housing scheme sites, in line with government guidance, through the Autumn. Officers who work in the Supported Housing Team will be offering a weekly morning appointment based service for tenants within the schemes. This is all about offering tenants more support and contact, as needed. On the same day, during the afternoon, Officers will also be carrying out visual checks of the schemes and gardens and also visiting tenants within their homes, if necessary.

Deane House Hub open for appointmentsThe customer services team are continuing to answer calls between 8am – 6pm, and people are being encouraged to access services online. However, when a face to face meeting is the only way to solve an issue appointments can now be made at the Deane House Hub in Belvedere Road.

All visitors and staff will be required to wear a mask unless exempt and to follow social distancing guidelines. SWT staff manning the interview rooms will be wearing face visors rather than masks to make communication easier and minimise any impact on visitors with a hearing impairment.

To make an appointment at the Deane House Hub please call 0300 304 8000.

Housing Awards Recognise Inspirational ColleagueA member of SWT’s housing team has been shortlisted for a national award in recognition of “the people that make housing great”. Denise (Dee) Bradley is a finalist in the Inspirational Colleague of the Year category of the Housing Heroes Awards run by Inside Housing and the Chartered Institute of Housing.

Denise Bradley - Debt Benefit AdviceI am Denise Bradley, your Debt and Benefit Case Manager. I work within the Housing Team supporting Somerset West & Taunton Council tenants. My aim is to help increase household incomes and minimise household debts.

If you are struggling to pay your rent and/or Council Tax or need help claiming Universal Credit and other Benefits, I am here to help. My weekly drop-in

sessions have been temporarily suspended, but I can be contacted at The Deane House Hub. To make an appointment please telephone 0300 304 8000.

On 6 April 2020, your rent charge changed. If you are claiming Universal Credit and need help reporting this change via your online journal, I can help you update this change in circumstances in order that the correct Housing Cost is calculated and paid to you.

Pensioners – Did you know?Over a million Pensioners are eligible to claim Pension Credit – but fail to do so! This may be because you don’t know you can or how to claim – To find out more you can call the Pension Service Helpline on 0800 731 0469, or I can help you.

If you are a single Pensioner and have less than £175.20 per week in State Retirement pension, or you are a Pensioner couple with less than £263.20 per week in State Retirement Pension you could be eligible for Pension Credit. The Pension Credit Claim line is 0800 99 1234 – or I can help you.

Don’t forget: from the 1 August 2020 if you are NOT getting the Guarantee Pension Credit top up to your State Retirement pension and you are over 75, you will have to pay for your TV licence. It’s worth a phone call.

For more info please contact Denise.Email: d.bradley@somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk

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Fly Tipping Information and SupportPlease dispose of your household items responsibly and check that anyone who you pay to remove rubbish on your behalf has the correct licence for waste disposal.

Fly-tipping can be dangerous, pollutes land and waterways and costs the Council Tax payer significant amounts of money to clear away.

The Council is continuing to investigate fly-tipping incidents and anyone witnessing possible fly-tipping is asked to report the details. Please use the SWT report fly-tipping online form or phone 0300 304 8000. Reported fly-tipping incidents will be attended within 5 working days unless a specialist is needed to remove it.

Bridging the gap in the communityMIND are a support and advocacy project for tenants of SWT Housing who have mental well-being issues. MIND’s particular areas of focus are Halcon, North Taunton and Wellington, although they will take referrals from any SWT Housing tenant who needs their help. MIND are part of the One Team; a scheme set up by the police, which also involves other agencies.

MIND will:-

• Listen and offer emotional support where needed.

• Accompany someone to meetings or appointments, as a supportive presence.

• Represent clients in situations where they don’t feel able to represent themselves.

• Provide mental health information.

• Signpost to appropriate services.

• Identify options.

• Help with letters, emails, and phone calls.

• Offer support with domestic abuse issues, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and mental health issues.

• Promote activities such as the “Youth Matters Walking and Talking Groups” to offer support for young people.

This is a confidential service and any support accessed would not be shared outside of the project. If you think MIND may be able to help you please contact them at www.mindinsomerset.org.uk or ask a Case Manager Tenancy Management to make a referral.

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Smartphones to Help Tackle the Digital DivideThanks to a generous donation from the Rotary Club of Taunton, The Community Council for Somerset (CCS) Village Agents will soon be able to distribute a number of Smartphones in the Taunton Area. CCS is thrilled to have such a valuable and useful donation to help their clients who are in need – young carers, families and older people, or indeed anyone to whom it will help – these phones will make a huge difference to people’s lives.

Applications for a smart phone can be made via your local Village Agent – go to CCS website to find who to contact in your area.

Re-home a Phone to Help Tackle Isolation

The Community Council for Somerset (CCS) is calling on the generosity of local people to donate their second-hand smartphones, to help tackle lone-liness and isolation.CCS will refurbish the phone, including removing any personal data.

They then provide the new owner with a SIM card and support them to use the phone with video tutorials and by installing apps that will help them to keep in touch with their loved ones.

If you have a smartphone to donate, please e-mail Kizzy@somersetrcc.org.uk or call 07946 461510. For more information please go to https://ccslovesomerset.org/network_news/re-home-a-phone-to-help-tackle-isolation-in-somerset/.

ReEngage CharityAre you living in a sheltered housing scheme or over 75 and feeling lonely?

Did you know you can contact ReEngage Charity and ask to be matched with a ‘Call Companion’

Freephone: 0800 716543.

A volunteer call companion will call the same older person between two and four times a month at a mutually agreed time for an informal chat.

Calls will last for around 30 minutes.

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Live online Talking CaféAs the regular weekly Talking Café Events have had to cease during coronavirus, Village Agents have launched a live online Talking Cafe broadcast, via Facebook. The Taunton Deane Team (including Wellington of course!) hosts the café on Tuesdays at 11am for about 45 mins. There are also links to local organisations and professionals who can offer lots of tips, support and advice.

You can access the link by logging onto https://www.facebook.com/talkingcafesomerset/live.

Do you want to talk to someone about domestic abuse? Contact the Somerset Domestic Abuse Support helpline: 0800 69 49 999 or email the Somerset Integrated Domestic Abuse Service General Enquiries:youfirstsidas@theyoutrust.org.uk

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm Saturday/Sunday.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please always call the Police on 999.

Tenant Empowerment - Making a DifferenceSomerset West and Taunton Council came into being on 1 April 2019, bringing together Taunton Deane Borough Council and West Somerset Council. The tenants groups which existed under Taunton Deane Borough Council formally ceased on that date, and we have been working to develop tenant decision making structures. A number of members from the previous groups have agreed to work with us to develop terms of reference and ways of working for two new groups, so that we can establish full membership by January 2021. The list of current members is available on our website on the link below.

These groups will enable tenants to have their voices heard, make it easy to raise concerns to those in the Council who make the decisions and to influence and shape what the Council does. All members of the Tenants’ Strategic Board are elected and SWT is looking for more tenants to take part from 2021 and will advertise soon. If you are interested in being involved, you can let us know through the general enquiries form on the SWT website.

To find out more please refer to the website on https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/housing/council-and-social-housing/tenant-empowerment/ or call 0300 304 8000.

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North Taunton Woolaway Project moves forwardThe demolition of 22 homes is underway by contractors LA Moore in preparation for the building of 47 new council homes in phase A of the North Taunton Woolaway Project by the Council’s main contractor Engie. The regeneration scheme will build 230 new council homes over four phases and refurbish an additional 27 council properties.

Time-lapse cameras have been installed to capture most of the demolition and all of the construction. The Council will also be regularly capturing shots from the air using a drone. The Council is aiming for demolition to be completed by early October and for the main build contractor to commence work in November.

As part of the development, there will be improved parking areas, a new community facility, and green spaces. The Council is continuing to work with the residents offering one-to-one conversations and support through a local base at a project office established in the centre of the community.

More information on the scheme is available on https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/housing/north-taunton-woolaway-regeneration/

Zero Carbon Affordable Homes PilotAs a significant contribution to SWT Housing’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030, the Council has approved funding to support the development of up to 50 new zero carbon council homes. The developments will influence the future specification used for all new council homes.

The properties are expected to be very efficient to heat which means lower costs for the tenants. SWT Housing aims to deliver the homes using modern methods of construction to reduce the on-site build period. As the schemes complete the homes will be opened up as show homes for people to experience the benefits of low carbon living.

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Citizens Advice - Taunton

We provide free, independent, impartial and confidential advice and support to people living and working in Taunton Deane. We are a charity and our service is delivered mainly by our 80+ volunteers - receptionists, advisers, campaigners, administrators - who are supported by a small paid staff and funded projects.

In 2018/19 our advice teams helped 7,363 clients with over 22,000 advice issues including: housing, debt, benefits, employment, family, consumer and more!

We do this by providing the following services:

• Face-to-Face Advice Service – face-to-face advice delivered by our team of volunteer advisers. We operate a drop-in direct access service - see our website for opening times.

• Somerset Adviceline – a telephone advice service delivered in partnership with all Somerset Citizens Advice offices. The service is staffed by our volunteer advisers - call: 03444 889623 Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm

• Email advice - we deliver advice via our website email submission form. The service is staffed by our volunteer advisers and ensure that people who cannot call or visit receive the same quality advice service.

• Outreach Services - face-to-face advice delivered by volunteer advisers. These services are delivered in Wellington, Priorswood and Halcon.

• Equality and Diversity - We apply core values of dignity, respect, equality and non-discrimination, based on our common humanity. We seek to foster empowerment and participation at all levels,

• Research & Campaigns – we collect evidence of the issues facing our clients and we use this evidence to challenge unfairness and influence decision makers at local, regional and national level.

For more information visit: www.citizensadvicetaunton.org.uk

Laxton Road work resumes following lockdown haltAlthough the lockdown period meant most development work halted at Laxton Road, the developers managed to pick up the pace as soon as they were able to. The eight apartments are due to be completed near Christmas and will be let via Homefinder Somerset.

Also during this time, SWT purchased 7 additional new build homes at Pyrlands Fields from Summerfield Developers. This complemented the ten units that the Council previously purchased in March 2020. The houses have provided new Council homes and allowed 8 families relocating from the North Taunton Woolaway project to be rehomed in advance of further phases of demolition.

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Would you like help getting into work or � nding a better job?

1:1 careers advice

CVs and cover letters

Jobsearching

Job applications

Interviewtechniques

IT access

Volunteering opportunities

Upskilling and training

For more information contact

When:

Where:

employment@inspired2achieve.net

Jane from Inspired to Achieve on:07734494755 or email

Inspired to Achieve are contracted bySomerset West and Taunton to deliveremployment support to its tenants. Whether you're employed orunemployed you can get help with:

Various locations across Taunton and Wellington

Appointments and Drop in available

Westcountry Savings and Loans, your local credit union, is pleased to be working alongside Somerset West and Taunton Council to create financial stability for residents living in the area. Not everyone has heard about us or what credit unions in general can do so here’s a short introduction to our services:

What is a credit union and why choose it? "credit union” is just that… a credit (or “money”) union (a “bringing together” or “unification”. We bring together people who have money to save, with those who need to borrow it. By managing this exchange with prudence and care, we help people in the community we serve to support each other financially. We are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and savings with us are protected under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (up to £85k).

Our productsWe offer a range of savings accounts and loans to suit all purposes:

Savings - Our aim is to help all members build up their savings for treats, rainy days and life’s necessities. We make it simple and straightforward to get into the savings habit:Save as and when you can or set up a regular Direct Debit or Banker’s Standing Order (if offered by your employer you can also save through our Payroll Partner Scheme).Savers qualify for annual dividends paid subject to performance Credit Unions are run by their members for their members. You have the right to attend and vote at the Annual General Meeting.

Loans - Whatever you’re looking for; a new car, a special holiday or a small loan to help with cashflow then we should be your first stop.

Borrowing from our credit union is different:• All applicants and their circumstances are treated individually

• We charge daily interest rather than front-load it and there are no early repayment charges

• Members who build up a savings pot benefit from a discounted loan interest rate.

The Westcountry CardOur Mastercard debit card comes with all the great features you’d expect like being able to use it worldwide wherever you see the Mastercard logo, contactless technology and the security of Chip and PIN. Plus, for our members it means no more waiting for funds to be ‘topped up’ onto a pre-paid card, approved loans available instantly, and you can shop online or instore using money in your Westcountry account.

Visit: www.westcountry.org.uk/Join for more information.

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Contact the Case Manager Tenancy Management before Altering Your HomeDuring the coronavirus a lot of us have been thinking about painting and decorating our homes. A lot of tenants forget to contact their Case Manager if they intend to make alterations to the kitchen or bathroom, such as fitting new cabinets and installing the plumbing for a shower, dish washer or moving existing pipe work. Any electrical wiring needs to be signed off by law by a qualified electrician.

If you do not have the proper permission and paperwork you may be requested to remove the alterations at your own expense; in addition you could put your home at risk as well as the neighbouring properties. Any household insurance will be invalid and the insurance on the building which SWT holds could also be invalid.

You can make improvements to your home, but you must get permission first. You will be responsible for maintaining the improvements you make.You need permission for installing a satellite dish. You’re not allowed to open up old open fires or install a log burner.

For the sake of one or two phone calls or a letter ask yourselves is it worth it. For more information contact Customer Services on 0300 304 8000.

ParkingSWT appreciate that parking can be difficult, especially at the moment with more people working from home, but could residents please avoid parking on the grass verges where possible to prevent damage and allow mower access. SWT would remind you to park considerately on the roads.

Cars are often legally parked, but in a way that makes it difficult for recycling/rubbish collections trucks to negotiate narrower streets. This has meant recycling crews haven’t been able to pick up their collections. If recycling crews can’t get through, emergency appliances won’t be able to either. Staff working for Somerset Waste Partnership have been putting polite notices from the fire service on the windscreens of any problem parkers.

Leasehold ServicesAs we now enter the post-corona recovery phase, SWT would like to inform Leaseholders the following works have resumed:• Section 20 (S20) consultation required by law for pending

major works: such as cyclical redecorations, maintenance, replacement rainwater goods/ fascia/soffits.

• Progressing with major work programmes whereby S20 was served pre-COVID.

• Leaseholders will now be in receipt of their 2019 - 2020 annual service charges.

If you are a leaseholder with a query about your service charges or any routine repair undertaken during this period, please do not hesitate to contact the Leasehold Case Manager on 0300 304 8000.

Help paying for childcareYou could be entitled to 15-30 hours free childcare every week.

Visit www.childcarechoices.co.uk for more information.

Tenancy/Estates Management Contacts

The Tenancy Management Team will work actively with residents ensuring support with tenancy and estate management issues and will work with our tenants to help them sustain their tenancies. 

If a tenant chooses to end their tenancy, we will work with the household to ensure that the property is left in good condition and the rent account is clear.  We manage tenancy successions, assignments, mutual exchanges and work closely with the gas safety team to ensuring compliance is met in our properties. We are responsible for regular estates inspections and block inspections (flats) to ensure that communal areas comply with Fire Safety Regulations. 

You can contact your Case Manager to help you with any tenancy issues, for example, low level nuisance and anti-social behaviour, estate tidiness. We have detailed below the patches they cover:

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Rachel Pettet, Case Manager Tenancy ManagementBishops Hull - Chaffinch Close, Farrant Close, Haydon Close, Heron Drive, Linnet Close, Mountway Lane, Northfields, Shutemead, Smithy, Wren

Close, Bishopswood - Brook Cottages, Blagdon Hill - Colleylake Cottages, Chipstable - Bouchers Cottages, Miltons, Churchinford - Church Road Cottages, Gillards Mead, Newberrys Patch,Comeytrowe - Horts Cottages,Corfe - Adcombe View, Fitzhead - Church Road, Hills Cottages Milverton - Ashford Close, Courtfield, Creedwell Close, Creedwell Court, Creedwell Orchard, Lower Fairfield, Newfield, Orchard CottagesNorton Fitzwarren - Blackdown View, Burnshill Terrace, Court Cottages, Dabinett Close, Hilly Park, Rectory Road, Station Road, Vilberie Close, Yarlington Close, Oake - Oake Acres, Oake ClosePitminster - Littleham Cottages Taunton - Belmont Road, Bruford Close, Churchill Way, Duke Street, Galmington Drive, Galmington Road, Henderson Close, Horts Cottages, Hoveland Crescent, Middleway, Musgrove Road, Ramshorn Close, Roland Close, St Augustine Street, Wellington Road, Willie Gill CourtTrull - Brookside Close, Fulwood Cottages, Mill Lane, The Green, Wyatts FieldWiveliscombe - Allenslade Flats, Barn Close, Brook Cottages, Langley Cross, Marsh Cottages, Northgate, Plain Pond, Smithy, Southgate, Stockers Close, Style Flats, Wyndhams

Tony Hickling, Case Manager Tenancy Management (temporary)Ashbrittle - Rectory RoadBathealton - Avis CottagesBradford on Tone - Tone Green

Nynehead - Farthings CloseHam - Castle CottagesHolywell Lake - Corams, Lake CottagesLangford Budville - SwiftsRockwell Green - Blackdown Road, Greenway Road, Lower Foxmoor Road, Northside, Oaken Ground, Popes Lane, The Well, Weavers Court, Weavers LodgeSampford Arundel - Breach Hill, Gorelegg, Weekes MeadowStawley - Appley CrossTonedale - Canal Close, Crosslands, Stoneleigh, Tone HillWellington - Alexandra Flats, Alexandra Road, Baynes Close, Bovet Street, Brendon Road, Buckwell, Bulford, Church Green, Churchfields, Court Drive, Gay Close, Gay Street, George Street, Holyoake Street, Howard Road, Humphreys Road, Kelway Road, Laburnum Road, Lillebonne Close, Lodge Close, Longforth Road, Lowmoor Cottage, Olands Road, Parker Close, Parklands Road, Priory, Quantock Road, Rockwell Green, Stedhams Close, Victoria Street, Wellesley ParkWest Buckland - Budgetts, Crown Hill, Frogs Lane, Lodge Close, Sawyers Hill

See the rest of the team over the page >

Abigail Battersby, Case Manager Tenancy ManagementBurrowbridge - Burrow DroveCurland - Castle ViewCreech Heathfield - Charlton Road

Creech St Michael - Cheads Cottages, Creechwood Terrace, Hyde Court, Rocketts Close, Rocketts Cottages, Sycamore Walk, The MyrtlesHatch Beauchamp - Crimthorne Cottage, Huckers Hill, Neoche View, Palmers GreenHenlade - Steart CottageNorth Curry - Barton Way, Cricket Cottages, Lillesdon Terrace, Moor Lane Close, Oxen Lane, Town CloseStaple Fitzpaine - Lady AcreStoke St Gregory - Polkes Field, Willey Road, Woodhill TerraceStoke St Mary - Church Close, PattonsRuishton - Coronation Close, Dinhams, Ruishton LaneStathe - Stathe Cottages, Taunton - Barrow Drive, Beadon Road, Blenheim Road, Bramley Road, Bridgwater Road, Charles Crescent, Crossway, Inner Circle, Laxton Road, Moorland Close, Moorland Court, Moorland House, Moorland Place, Moorland Road, Newton Road, Outer Circle, Roman Road, Russett Road, Valley Road, York Road.Thornfalcon - Glebe CottagesWrantage - Croft Cottages,

Karen Parsons,Case Manager Tenancy ManagementTaunton - Alder Close, Alfred Street, Bacon Drive, Baldwin Road, Brooke Road, Byron Road,

Calvados Road, Charter Walk, Creechbarrow Road, Coleridge Crescent, Cromwell Road, Greenlands, Hamilton Road, Harnell Close, Hartley Way, Hawthorn Road, Hazel Close, Holly Close, Holway Road, Juniper Road, Keats Road, Kershaw Close, Lambrook Close, Lambrook Road, Lambrook Way, Laurel Close, Leycroft Grove, Leycroft Road, Lilac Close, Lime Crescent, Lisieux Court, Lisieux Way, Midford Road, Milton Road, Monmouth Road, Normandy Drive, Northleigh Road, Rowan Drive, Seabrook Close, Shakespeare Avenue, South Road, Sycamore Close, Tauntfield Close, Trinity Street, Upper Holway Road, Wheatley Crescent, Willow Close, Wordsworth Drive.

Stephen Deakin, Case Manager Tenancy Management (temporary)Bathpool - Brittons Ash,Bishop Lydeard - Darby Way, Greenway, Mill Lane, Minehead

Road, Pound Lane, Quantock ViewCheddon Fitzpaine - Cheddon Lawns, School Cottages, Kingston St Mary - Fulford Cottages, Greenway Terrace, Leachs Field, Park Cottages, Park Cottages, Parsonage Cottages, Quantock Way Lydeard St Lawrence - Cridlands, Crosscroft, Nethercott Way,Monkton Heathfield - Bungalows Elms Estate, Elms Estate, Heathfield Drive, Richards Crescent, School Cottages, School Road, Pen Elm - Manleys CottagesTaunton - Addison Grove, Bagborough Road, Bodmin Road, Cheddon Road, Crowcombe Road, Cyril Street West, Darwin Close, Dorchester Road, Dowell Close, Drake Close, Enmore Road, Franklin Close, Greenway Crescent, Greenway Road, Holford Road, Hoper Corner Lane, Kilve Crescent, Ladymead Road, Pyrland Fields, Pyrland Place, Quantock Road, Slapes Close, Speke Close, St Albans Place, St Davids Gardens, St Michaels Crescent, St Patricks Close, St Patricks Road, Stowey Road, Treborough Close, Triscombe Road, Weacombe Road, Wellsprings RoadWest Monkton - Titley CottagesWest Bagborough - Heathfield Close, Parkside, Vale View

Steve Gevaux, Case Manager Tenancy ManagementTaunton - Adcombe Road, Barlinch Close, Bircham Road, Blackdown Road, Blackthorn Gardens, Bossington Drive, Buckland Road,

Cambridge Terrace, Chantry Close, Cleeve Road, Dare Close, Dover Road, Dunster Close, Durham Place, Eastwick Road, Fairfield Road, Fletcher Close, Grange Drive, Grange Walk, Hereford Drive, Horner Road, Leigh Road, Ludlow Avenue, Luxhay Close, Lyngford Crescent, Lyngford Place, Lyngford Square, Maple Close, Oxford Place, Pickeridge Close, Priorswood Place, Radlet Close, Rochester Road, Selworthy Road, Southampton Row, St Peters Close, Victory Way, Warwick Road, Wedlands, Wellesley Street, Wells Close, Winslade Close.

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Russ Nurcome (not pictured) & Sue Morrisey, Case Managers Anti-Social Behaviour

Our Anti-Social Behaviour Officers will deal with high level persistent nuisance to serious violent behaviour. 

One TeamsSWT are committed to supporting tenants by working with other agencies in the local community. By working together with local schools, health, community centres, PCSOs and other partners we hope to enhance the community where our tenants live. We support others working with individual

tenants and focus on community development. The One Teams are based in Halcon, North Taunton and Wellington, Our co-ordinators are (left to right) Richard Shadrick Halcon One Team, Angela Bolitho North Taunton One Team, Peter Joint Wellington One Team.

Keep Safe and Secure in Your HomeTenants will need to contact the Council at certain times about repairs or when upgrades and maintenance jobs are being carried out in the area. SWT will usually contact tenants in writing, to advise of any work scheduled.

Unfortunately some doorstep traders are exploiting vulnerable tenants. Cold calling is where individuals or companies call on an address without booking an appointment. These individuals may be ‘touting’ for work or attempting to sell you goods.

Top Tips - when dealing with Cold Callers

Lock: Firstly make sure all outer doors are locked.

Stop: Then stop and think – are you expecting anybody?

Chain: Always put the door chain on and look out of the window or spy hole to see who is calling before opening the door.

Check: If a person does not have the correct photo I.D. do not let them in. You should tell them to wait outside while you phone the Council.

These checks should also be made on anyone who says that they need to come into your home. All Energy Suppliers and Water Board workers carry the proper I.D, as do all people providing support at home.

If a person under 18 years of age is at home alone they should not grant entry to anyone unless it is by prior arrangement with a parent/responsible adult, again the I.D. must be checked.

Police Crime Statistics for Your AreaAvon and Somerset Police have recently added the crime statistics for each beat area to their website, so you can find out for yourself what crimes have been recorded in the neighbourhood where you live, and who the local beat officers are. By going to www.avonandsomerset.police.uk and typing your address, you will be taken to the relevant webpage. You can send your local beat team a message by filling out the online form.

For further information please contact Customer Services on:Tel. 0300 304 8000 Web: www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk

For more information on how SWT Housing prioritises repairs please refer to your tenant’s handbook or visit https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/housing/improvements-and-repairs/housing-repairs/

The safety of SWT tenants and staff is a priority. Vital services will continue to be in place for you including: • Help if you are currently or at risk of being homeless• Help if you are worried about paying rent • Gas and other servicing – we will continue to service

your boiler and carry out fire safety checks in communal areas

• Looking after our supported housing residents• Continue to call 0300 304 8000 for all these services.

Coronavirus Support Helpline is still availableFreephone number: 0300 790 6275

The Somerset Coronavirus Helpline is open seven days a week from 8am-6pm. The helpline will provide help and advice for anyone who can’t find help within their own local networks and volunteers. Help and advice is available for:• Personal care and support including food and delivery of prescriptions;• Support for the homeless; • Emotional support if you’re feeling worried or anxious;• Transport to medical appointments;• Waste collection and disposal; and• Financial support.

Callers will be asked to describe the support they need and will be connected with the service that will support them.

If you are interested in volunteering, for example, helping people out with shopping or picking up prescriptions please register as a Corona Helper via the website: https://www.corona-helpers.co.uk

Useful Services and Telephone NumbersImportant: Smell Gas? Turn off your gas supply on the appliance and at the meter and phone the National Grid on 0800 111 999.

SWT Housing including any urgent repairs- 0300 304 8000.Please note that emergency repairs have a standard 24 hour call out period, there must be a person over the age of 18 within the property until the appointment is completed. We cannot guarantee an exact time for attendance.

Please continue to log your repairs online, or phone the above number, using option 2, Monday to Thursday 8.30am-4pm and Friday 8.30am to 3.30pm.