TS18 Oxbridge & Grangefield bloggers

Vela Group signs apprenticeship commitment

2012-02-08T13:45:49Z

The Vela Group has signed up to the National Housing Federation's North East Apprenticeship Commitment to celebrate Apprenticeship Week, which runs from February 6-10.

The housing group, which includes Housing Hartlepool and Tristar Homes, owning 17,000 homes predominantly in the Hartlepool and Stockton areas, has pledged to extend employment opportunities to apprentices wherever possible.

With the highest unemployment figures in the country and nearly one in four young people out of work, the North East urgently needs more apprentices to create a new generation of skilled workers and drive economic growth.

Since the formation of Vela, one of the Group's key objectives has been to provide new schemes to help get people into work and to recruit more trainees.

The Vela Group's apprenticeship training lasts up to four years with the apprentices gaining work-based practical experience, as well as, benefitting from a college course in a related subject.

Vela has worked in association with Hartlepool College, Springboard and Connect To Work to establish these apprenticeships.

Cath Purdy, Vela Group Chief Executive, said: "Housing associations are about much more than just bricks and mortar. As well as providing an affordable roof over people's heads, Vela is committed to playing an important role is improving the lives of residents.

"Helping people gain skills, which opens doors to fulfilling careers, is crucial to the economic wellbeing of an area. Apprenticeships are a great way to gain practical experience and study for industry-recognised qualifications while earning a wage.

"This agreement demonstrates the Vela Group's commitment to helping shape a future generation of skilled workers."

Last September, 24 young apprentices from the local area started work with the Vela Group, increasing the overall number of apprentices across the Vela Group to 34. The apprentices work in a variety of disciplines covering traditional trades and modern professions.

Nine are working in administration, eight in housing management, one in information technology, three in bricklaying, three in joinery, three plumbing, one plasterer, three gas fitters and three as an electrician.

As part of their National Apprentice Week celebrations, Vela apprentices visited Laurel Gardens, a purpose built development that specialises in exclusive independent living for the for the over-55s.

Here, they organised entertainment including a game of Bingo and a raffle, helped out in Laurel Garden's hair salon, shop and bistro and computer lessons for residents.
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The Vela Group and other social landlords are working with the National Housing Federation, the voice of affordable housing in England, to ensure the sector continues to provide opportunities for young people as a springboard to future careers.

On February 10, social housing providers will meet at the Radisson Hotel in Durham to discuss ways of employing more apprentices.

They will discuss best practice with politicians and also meet apprentices to hear about their experiences first hand. The Vela Group has been chose to showcase its apprentice programme to delegates.

Monica Burns, the Federation's lead manager for the North East, added: "I am delighted that the Vela Group is leading the way during Apprenticeship Week by committing to take on more apprentices.

"The apprenticeship culture is already well embedded in the North East's social housing sector and this new commitment demonstrates how the region is keen to continue setting the standard."

Housing associations in the North East have pledged to increase the number of apprentices they employ to be between one and five percent of their workforce. This has already resulted in more than 100 new apprenticeships being
created.

Vela, a major new North East Housing Group was formed in 2010 as a result of a partnering between social landlords Tristar Homes and Housing Hartlepool, which together has over 17,000 homes and 700 employees.

The majority of our homes are for rent, but also include shared ownership, right to buy, outright sale and sheltered care schemes.

Our vision of shaping places, creating communities and changing lives is embedded throughout our corporate culture as we aim to become the leading social landlord in the North East.

Housing Hartlepool and Tristar Homes retain their distinct identities and continue to operate as separate landlords in their localities, with local boards made up of local people and experts who care about their future.

There are substantial benefits to operating within a group arrangement including greater buying powers leading to better value for money for tenants.

The group structure also means the organisations can bring together their expertise and share best practice, which means even better services for their tenants.

Vela, through Housing Hartlepool and Tristar Homes, is committed to supporting the regeneration of communities. Working closely with residents and other agencies, the organisations will improve and build homes, and improve the local environment and surrounding neighbourhoods.

A wide range of community-based services, including those seeking to tackle financial exclusion, unemployment and worklessness, also are being delivered.

Housing Hartlepool is responsible for 7,000 homes, and Stockton-based Tristar Homes has more than 10,000 properties in its portfolio.

Our Vision: Shaping places, Creating Communities and Changing Lives
For more information, go to: www.velagroup.co.uk

Apprenticeship Week, February 6-10, is a programme of local, regional and national promotional events run by the National Apprenticeship Service to raise the profile of apprenticeships. For more information go to: www.apprenticeships.org.uk

The National Housing Federation is the voice of affordable housing in England. We believe that everyone should have the home they need at a price they can afford. That's why we represent the work of housing associations and campaign for better housing. Our members provide two and a half million homes for more than five million people. And each year they invest in a diverse range of neighbourhood projects that help create strong, vibrant communities.

Hair extensions firm secures Dancing On Ice deal

2012-01-24T09:20:54Z

A Teesside hair extensions company has secured a lucrative deal with primetime reality programme Dancing on Ice to work with the show's renowned celebrity hairdresser.

Stockton-based Additional Lengths, which is one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of hair extensions and associated accessories within the UK, has been approached by award-winning hairdresser Paul Haskell to supply extensions throughout the seventh series of the hit ITV show.

Mr Haskell, who is responsible for the hair design of all competing celebrities, professional skaters and is also the personal hairdresser to Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, was drawn to the company's reputation, extensive range and quality of human hair extensions.

Victoria Lynch, Additional Lengths founder, said: "We are delighted to be working with such a highly recognised hairdresser and primetime show such as Dancing on Ice. We create and export our own brand of high quality human hair extensions, which is one reason why we were approached to be involved.

"Some of our extensions have already been used on the first episode of the show and we are working closely with Paul throughout the ten week series. The celebrities' costumes and hair are half of the appeal for viewers to watch Dancing on Ice so we are thrilled to be involved.

"Working with such a high profile show is fantastic for our credibility and reputation as a leading supplier of hair extensions and we are hoping it will lead to additional work within the entertainment industry."

The company, which has a retail store and salon on Stockton High Street as well as an online shop, already has a highly respected reputation in the showbiz industry thanks to its brand ambassador Sam Faiers of The Only Way is Essex and work with a girl band.

Mr Haskell, who has worked on the show for three years, also works on other primetime shows including Strictly Come Dancing and Popstar to Operastar.

For more information about Additional Lengths and its extensive range of hair extensions and accessories call 01642 867213 or visit www.additionallengths.co.uk.

Insurance brokers helps Yorkshire businesses

2012-01-23T12:15:35Z

Businesses are being warned not to cut back on their insurance provisions as the financial impact of unexpected events can have a devastating impact.

Cash strapped businesses in Yorkshire are feeling the pinch from the recession, inflation, the fallout from the bank crisis, and a lack of access to funding.*

*The Federation of Small Businesses has cited uncertainty over contracts, the state of the economy, cash-flow and access to finance as well as the cost of credit as major barriers to firms.

The current rate of inflation is 4.8 per cent, which is also putting companies under pressure.

Some may think it is worth taking a risk by not covering or preparing for unforeseen circumstances with an insurance policy tailored to their business needs, cautions industry expert Peter Wilkinson.

But at some commercial operations elsewhere in the country found to their cost, the unexpected - such as riots - can happen, added Mr Wilkinson, a director of Henderson Insurance Brokers.

And while Yorkshire was fortunate to avoid such civil disturbance, they still need to be prepared for emergencies.

Yorkshire businesses owners, including those whose premises were devastated by fire or flood, are proof that making provision for an unexpected crisis is vital to the security of a business and the employment of its staff.

Peter Wilkinson said: "When money is tight and cash flow is under pressure, businesses understandably scrutinise their outgoings and see where cut backs can be made.

"In a recession, some may mistakenly believe it is worth taking the risk of not renewing their annual insurance policy or buying an off the shelf bargain basement policy.

"It is vital that businesses seek expert advice to make sure that an insurance policy package is drawn up that is tailor-made for their needs."

He points out that many businesses run the risk of under-estimating the cost and length of time it could take to get their operations back up and running following a crisis.

The cost of replacing machinery, how long it would take to be delivered, the cost of contracting out the work in the interim, renting temporary premises, the cost of repairs or the complete re-build of premises all need to be taken into account and will differ from business to business.

Mr Wilkinson oversaw the insurance claim after Todd Waste Management's site in Thirsk Industrial Park was affected by a devastating fire that damaged buildings and equipment.

Richard Todd, Managing Director of Todd Waste Management, said because Henderson was its broker, the process was less complicated and drawn out. It meant that Todds did not have to appoint a claims recovery specialist as Henderson could provide this service in-house via Mr Wilkinson.

Mr Todd said: "Henderson had previously spent a lot of time making sure the insurance policy was tailor-made for our needs. Their attention to detail and industry knowledge meant the correct insurance products were in place. Without this our claim would have been severely weakened.

"The claim package put together by Henderson included financial advances in the run-up to full insurance settlement which has meant that our cashflow has not been disrupted."

Mr Todd added: It was a stressful time for the business, but this was lessened by the speed of action and the professionalism and support of Henderson Insurance Brokers.

"In the wake of the fire, Mr Wilkinson has overseen the claim in an effective and efficient manner, which has enabled us maintain cash flow, start to repair the damage and begin to get the business back on track."

A Yorkshire hotel and builders' merchants severely damaged by flood water and a warehouse hit by fire, are a lesson to others that appropriate cover and support can be crucial to survival

Mr Wilkinson smoothly guided through the businesses through submitting a claim and helped with the planning to allow them to keep operating.

Run-off from excessive rainfall badly damaged the ground and lower ground floors at a North Yorkshire market town hotel during one of its busiest times of year.

Mr Wilkinson arranged a prompt inspection of building with the loss adjuster and quickly collated all the documents to assist the insurers to make a speedy decision.

Mr Wilkinson's actions meant that the business experienced minimal disruption. He also arranged for an interim payment to be made to the hotel owners to help its cash flow until the full claim was settled.

A blaze badly damaged part of a South Yorkshire warehouse, owned by international clothing manufacturer/distributor with the insurance claim running into seven figures.

HIBL as the warehouse's recently appointed brokers, had identified a better insurance deal for its new client and had transferred the policy to a new insurer. A day later the fire broke out.

Mr Wilkinson's expertise helped obtained a quick decision on policy liability which allowed an application to be made for an interim payment.

A flood at a builders' merchants ruined contents and stock as well as damaging the fabric of its premises based in South Yorkshire.

Mr Wilkinson steered negotiations which led to an increased offer for the losses being made.

Mr Wilkinson said: "These businesses are proof that the unthinkable can happen. Luckily the riots did not spread up to Yorkshire, but there are still calamities that can befall a business, its premises and contents that have the potential to put its future in jeopardy if the right insurance protection is not in place."

Mr Wilkinson added: "With business insurance policies the key message is that one size does not fit all. With the help of an expert acting as a partner, businesses can be assured that the appropriate contingency plans have been set up and that support is at hand to ensure it survives after a crisis has occurred."

* Business secretary Vince Cable recently said that "more bank lending was critical to our economic recovery".
The current rate of inflation is 4.8 per cent,

Henderson Insurance Brokers is one of the top five leading insurance brokers operating from 11 offices across the UK and delivering for clients in all industry sectors.

The company has specialist divisions in construction, http://www.hibl.co.uk/specialist/realestatereal estate, retail/wholesale and haulage - as well as strong expertise in risk management and manufacturing.

The Henderson portfolio also comprises a specialist Lloyd's business, Contractsure, and further divisions for surety services, risk management, healthcare and real estate development.

The company also undertakes general business insurance by drawing on more than two decades of experience to deliver tailored packages.

For more information log onto www.hibl.co.uk

Suppliers can boost UK superfast broadband take-up

2011-12-21T12:36:21Z

21/12/2011

The managing director of Tees Valley business to business communications specialist Odyssey Systems believes providers are to blame for the UK's low take-up of superfast broadband.

A new report from Ofcom has shown only 4% of UK homes are taking advantage of superfast broadband, defined as giving speeds in excess of 24 megabits per second (MBPS).

Mike Odysseas, managing director and founder of Odyssey Systems, said: "There would be a much higher take-up of superfast broadband if providers offered the right packages at reasonable prices.

"Most packages have limits on monthly bandwidth usage and those which do not are usually very expensive. Therefore, if the majority of people had superfast broadband, they would be likely to use up their quota of bandwidth very early in the month and be left with incredibly slow service.

"Another problem is that providers, particularly BT, traffic manage their broadband customers, increasing and reducing speeds depending upon the time of the day, so that more customers can get online at the busiest periods - but at slower speeds.

"Odyssey Systems does neither of these things and I believe that if other providers improved their packages, so that they were less managed, more reasonably priced and allowed customers the real speeds available, then the uptake of superfast broadband would be vastly greater.

"Another option companies can look at to improve their broadband speeds is to find a specialist business provider, such as Odyssey, which does not have residential customers and, as a result, clients do not suffer from the same peaks and troughs of traffic flow."

For more information about broadband and other services from Odyssey Systems, visit www.odyssey-systems.co.uk.

On the first day of Christmas Tristar Homes gave to its community...

2011-12-20T16:36:46Z

20/12/2011

Tristar Homes, part of the Vela Group, has teamed up with one of its partners, the Apollo Group, to offer good deeds to residents in Thornaby during the 12 day run-up to Christmas.

Tristar invited residents in Thornaby, where Apollo does much of its refurbishment works, to suggest ideas for the good deeds. Now, they are working together to provide turkey for a pensioners' lunch at South Thornaby Community Centre; remove moss from concrete clothes line areas for elderly residents in Gilpin, and provided energy efficiency light bulbs to residents of Grenville and Millfield.

Other good deeds include giving selection boxes out and helping with Christmas parties for the residents of Holmes and Middlefield and Thornaby parents group; giving a hamper to a good neighbour, currently recovering from an operation; assisting with the planting and hanging of flower baskets for residents in Grenville; and providing Christmas presents for a family who are having a difficult time this Christmas.

Cath Purdy, Group Chief Executive of the Vela Group, said: "Tristar Homes is committed to working in partnership with our suppliers to make sure we deliver more than just roofs over people's heads and that we also provide excellent community service.

"Our residents have been great coming up with ideas for our good deeds project and our and Apollo's staff are enjoying spreading Christmas joy, festive spirit and giving a helping hand to the local communities."

Mike Edwards, Divisional Director at Apollo in the north, said: "Apollo is always looking for ways to invest more in the communities where we work, and we're really pleased to be involved in the '12 days of Christmas' initiative. What better way to end the year than to bring a smile to a few faces where we work by doing a good deed or two?"

Tristar Homes is committed to delivering a £140 million home modernisation programme to residents across the borough of Stockton and Apollo, along with its own Contract Services team, has been appointed as one of the strategic partners in the substantial investment project.

The works, due to be completed during the next four years, include kitchen and bathroom refurbishments, heating system upgrades, replacement windows and doors, insulation, new fascias and external rendering and improvements to communal areas.

Communications expert welcomes ISP traffic management steps

2011-12-12T09:04:08Z

Odyssey Systems the Premium business communications specialist, has welcomed Ofcom's steps for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to improve traffic management transparency.

Traffic management is used by ISPs to slow down or accelerate individual users' bandwidth to allow more people to use their service at busy times.

Telecommunications regulator Ofcom has set out steps for ISPs to take to improve their internet traffic management transparency. Although ISPs already provide some customer information on their use of traffic management, Ofcom believes it doesn't go far enough and it should be made clearer and easier to understand.

Mike Odysseas, managing director and founder of Odyssey Systems said: "The internet is now a vital part of people's lives and we expect and depend on being able to extract information and services from this resource. Most ISPs shape traffic because they have insufficient capacity to deal with the bandwidth used at peak times and have to carry out this process to avoid bottlenecks due to their inadequate central infrastructure.

"At Odyssey Systems, we do not shape our internet traffic in any way. Our full resources are directed into looking after the needs of the customer. We also make sure that our capacity is in line with the usage and needs of our customers. We do not inspect or adjust our clients' bandwidth and our clients' data passes unhindered to ensure the best experience."

Anyone interested in further information about broadband and Odyssey Systems' services can visit www.odyssey-systems.co.uk

Don't leave callers cold this Christmas

2011-12-07T13:30:37Z

Odyssey Systems, the Tees Valley telecommunications specialist, has a special Christmas message for businesses - don't leave your customers out of touch over the festive period.

Those businesses which don't keep customers informed over the Christmas break risk losing their goodwill, warns Mike Odysseas, managing director of Stockton-based Odyssey Systems.

He said: "Many businesses adjust their working schedules, or shut down completely over the festive period. However, not all companies keep customers old and new as well-informed as they should.

"If the phones are not going to be manned throughout, then something as simple as a recorded message, leaving details of opening hours or alternative contact numbers, will let callers know what the situation is.

"However, many firms are guilty of failing to do even this, which can leave customers frustrated or even stranded when they need help. The chances of those customers returning with more business is significantly reduced.

"Never before have so many options been available for flexible working or contact arrangements, yet it is something as simple as an answer phone message which can make all the difference.

"When Odyssey Systems conducts an installation for a customer, this is something we add automatically, because we feel it is such a vital basic requirement of any system."

Tristar Homes Honours Its Customers' Achievements

2011-11-28T10:38:49Z

Tristar Homes, which is part of the Vela Group, has honoured residents who have demonstrated outstanding neighbourliness, community spirit and personal achievement.

The social housing company invited customers to nominate neighbours and friends whose endeavours have made a real difference to them or the wider community.

At its annual Customer Services Awards, the winners were revealed including John Partridge, of Stockton, who was the overall winner and received the Pride of Tristar award for his fantastic work to improve his neighbourhood.

The other category winners were:

• Resident of the Year - John Partridge

• Best Garden - Robert and Lorraine Wolfe, of Stockton

• Good Neighbour - Kath Edwards, of Yarm

• Younger Achiever - Stephan Gibson, of Billingham

• Personal or Community Achievement - Maureen Roberts and Mary Vernon, of Thornaby

Cath Purdy, Vela Group Chief Executive, said: "Community spirit and achievement are alive and well within the neighbourhoods covered by Tristar Homes.

"This is vividly illustrated by the winners of our 2011 Customer Awards with them all demonstrating outstanding care and support of their neighbours or communities or the achievement of improvements in their lives.

"It was really hard to decide on an overall winner as all of these exemplary customers deserve high praise for the time and effort they have put into their various endeavours.

"However, how John Partridge cherishes and cultivates the communal space outside where he lives and his creation of a memorial rose garden make him a worthy winner of the Tristar Pride Award. His care of the garden and regard for his fellow residents is an inspiration to everyone."

The Pride of Tristar

The pride of Tristar Award is a special award acknowledging someone who has encapsulated the spirit of Tristar Homes and used it in abundance.

Winner - John Partridge, who has shown an outstanding commitment to where he lives, improving the neighbourhood to its maximum potential. He has taken an active role in the development of his community which has made a positive impact on the lives of people who live there.

Resident of the Year Award:

This acknowledges someone who has made a significant contribution to the development and success of their community. It can involve helping an individual or group of people, bringing the community together or organising community events.

Winner: John Partridge from Stockton, who has been a very active member of Queens Park Residents' Association and Tristar Homes Customer High Rise Group.

Along with his late wife Jean, John was very active in organising social activities such as bingo and trips away.

When John lost his wife several years ago he planted a rose bush in her memory within the communal gardens.

He then created a garden of remembrance, where he lovingly tended rose bushes in recognition of residents from his communal block who have passed away.

John's passion for gardening has led him to start caring for the whole of the communal gardens.

Thanks to his hard work and dedication, as well as that of other members of the resident group, Tristar Homes was awarded a silver medal in the Britain in Bloom competition for the community garden.

Good Neighbour Award

The Good Neighbour Award goes to someone who goes the extra mile for their neighbours or reaches out to someone who is in need of help; from running an errand to helping out in the garden, it can be anything that raises a grateful smile from your fellow neighbour.

Winner - Kath Edwards, from Yarm, who was nominated by her neighbour because of her tremendous efforts to help her when she came out of hospital after an operation.

Kath went in every day to see if her neighbour was all right, did all her shopping and kept her company as her family live out of the area. Kath even took her own vacuum cleaner round to keep her neighbour's house tidy.

Young Achiever Award

Many young people get a negative reputation because of the behaviour of a small minority in the country. Tristar wanted to look at the majority and celebrate many of the fantastic achievements that people under the age of 21 can achieve. This award was for someone who has shown innovation, creativity and determination.

Winner - Stephan Gibson, from Billingham, who was nominated by the Corner House Youth Project for the amazing changes he has made to his life.

When Stephan was originally referred to the Corner House he had struggled for years, to manage his behaviour in a classroom or group setting.

During the past six months the project has seen a dramatic change in Stephan. He has matured massively and is on target to achieve a Foundation Diploma. His portfolio of work is of an excellent standard and he is keen to progress to College next year.

Aside from achieving qualifications and improving his employability chances, Stephan has grown as an individual. He articulates himself well, and is polite and a pleasure to work with.

Judges believed he had developed into a "great role model for his peers".

Best Garden Award
This is to recognise people who take pride in the external features of their home, which can help transform the look of the street in which the property is based, and the hard work they put into caring for their outside space.

Winners - Robert and Lorraine Wolfe, from Stockton. The couple have put in an incredible amount of time and effort into creating a beautiful back garden, in which they can relax.

They have also cultivated a colourful and neat front garden, which has added to the look of their street.

Personal or Community Achievement

The nominations were for a single person or group who go beyond the call of duty in helping others - whether that be the young, old or disabled people - or who have improved the area in which they live.

Winner - Maureen Roberts and Mary Vernon, from Thornaby, who embody the spirit of their local community. They run the local over-60s club which includes organising a weekly bingo game and a range of excursions for OAP customers in the area.

They recently took part in the Evening Gazette's Wish Tokens system in which an organisation can fundraise to support their activities by collecting tokens. As a result, they raised finance for future trips for their over-60s club.

They are both very supportive of the work Tristar Homes does in the area. They regularly help Tristar carry out events in their area including acting as waitresses during a healthy eating initiative.

They also help with the upkeep of their local community centre by making sure the premises are kept clean and tidy.

The nominating person said: "These two ladies really help bring their local community together and show a genuine interest in organising events to include all customers in the area."

In December 10,250 homes were transferred from Stockton Borough Council to Tristar Homes, a newly created housing association with the power and resources to invest in large scale home improvements throughout the Borough.

The transfer followed a ballot of all tenants in summer 2010, in which 89% approved the proposal.

Tristar Homes which has been the Council's arms length management organisation since 2002, now has the ability to unlock £140 million for an investment programme which will upgrade properties, improve the lives of tenants, and invest in homes for future generations.

Tristar Homes is part of Vela Group, which began operating in December 2010 and also embraces Housing Hartlepool.

For more information, go to: www.tristarhomes.co.uk

or www.velagroup.co.uk

Telecommunications Company Scoops Top Award

2011-11-24T12:20:55Z

Odyssey Systems, the Tees Valley business-to-business telecommunications provider, has won electronics giant LG's Best Dealer award at a prestigious international conference.

Mike Odysseas, managing director of the company, which is based at Preston Park, Stockton-on-Tees, received the award at a conference staged by LG in Borneo.

Mike said: "This award reflects the hard work and dedication of the team I have assembled at Odyssey Systems.

"They have individually and collectively bought into Odyssey's ethos of valuing each customer and ensuring that what we deliver is based upon the clients' needs, not what it might suit us to sell them.

"By treating our customers in this way, we maintain excellent client relationships, based upon trust and good service, so when we specify a product from LG's range they know it is the right choice for their business."

Established in 1987, Odyssey Systems provides communications solutions for hundreds of customers, each tailored to individual requirements.

Plans For Enterprise Zone Available For Consultation

2011-11-22T15:14:18Z

Plans that will guide and enable the delivery of the Tees Valley Enterprise Zone will be on display for public consultation from 23 November until 23 December 2011.

The 12 individual sites that form the Enterprise Zone were announced earlier this year. Each will benefit from tax reliefs and simplified planning regimes to encourage business investment and the creation of local jobs.

These simplified planning regimes will be managed through Local Development Orders and Planning Performance Agreements. The draft Local Development Orders can now be viewed at the relevant council offices and in addition, Tees Valley Unlimited will host a morning drop-in session at Cavendish House in Stockton, on Tuesday 6 December where the details will be available collectively and representatives will be on hand to answers any questions.

Enterprise Zone planning proposals are intended to accelerate the development of the sites to realise the financial incentives that come into force on 1 April 2012.

Linda Edworthy, Tees Valley Unlimited's Director of Policy and Strategy explained: "Seven of the twelve sites will be managed through Local Development Orders. LDOs grant planning permission for the type of development outlined in the order so there is no need to submit a formal planning application and wait for approval. This can provide certainty for the developer and save both time and money - key components in any construction project.

"The additional sites at Belasis Hall Technology Park, PD Ports/South Bank Wharf, Wilton, New Energy and Technology Park and NORTHSHORE are subject to different restrains due to their locations. As such, they will be managed through Planning Performance Agreements. PPAs establish a partnership framework and management programme for dealing with a development proposal. They identify the complex needs of both the project and the location from the outset so help minimise risks, decision making delays and potential costs of appeal.

"It is anticipated that both planning regimes will help attract first class developers who will further entice businesses to locate across the Enterprise Zone."

LDO consultation documents for Queen's Meadow, Port Estates and Oakesway are available to view at Hartlepool Borough Council.

Teesside Advanced Manufacturing Park (formally South West Iron Masters) at Middlesbrough Council.

Kirkleatham Business Park documents are at Redcar and Cleveland Council Offices in Guisborough and Redcar.

Details for Central Park can be viewed at Darlington Council.

Council offices are open Monday to Friday 9.00am until 4.30pm. TVU's Enterprise Zone Planning Consultation Session on Tuesday 6 December runs from 9.30am until 1pm at Cavendish House, Teesdale Business Park, Stockton on Tees, TS17 6QY.

Additional information can be found at www.teesvalleyunlimited.gov.uk or by calling 01642 524 400.

Vela Group Chief Executive Receives OBE

2011-11-22T14:53:20Z

Vela Group Chief Executive Cath Purdy has received her Order of the British Empire (OBE) from his Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.

Cath, who has worked in the housing sector for two decades, was appointed OBE in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours.

The 44-year-old had run Housing Hartlepool since its formation when it took over the ownership and management of the former local authority housing stock which was transferred to it from Hartlepool Borough Council following overwhelming support of tenants.

Cath became Group Chief Executive at Vela, which embraces Housing Hartlepool and Tristar Homes in Stockton, when it was formed last December.

During her stewardship of Housing Hartlepool, she ensured the successful transfer of 7,000 homes into new ownership and oversaw major housing improvements, estate regeneration projects and the building of much-needed high quality new homes - schemes benefiting the lives of thousands of people in the town

Cath and her team at Housing Hartlepool brought more than £100m worth of housing and community investment to the area.

Cath Purdy, who was recognised for services to Local Government, said: "It was a great honour and privilege to attend Buckingham Palace and have the OBE officially bestowed upon me by the Prince of Wales.

"The honour is a reflection of the workforce at Housing Hartlepool and Tristar Homes and the fantastic work they have done to improve local communities.

"It also is testament to the valuable contribution that social housing landlords make to people's lives and the fabric of their communities and neighbourhoods."

Cath Purdy has worked in the housing sector for more 20 years. She started her career in the North West before moving to Hartlepool Borough Council where she succeeded in several housing management and policy roles. She led on the stock transfer of 7,000 homes to Housing Hartlepool which was created in 2004.

She is a passionate advocate of the importance of good quality housing and services, and its contribution to the local economy and healthy, cohesive communities. As a key senior housing professional she plays a significant role in housing-led regeneration in the Tees Valley - she serves on the national council of the Chartered Institute of Housing, chairs the National Housing Federation North East Committee and is a board director of the Northern Housing Consortium.

Cath is an alumni of several education institutions having completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at University of Durham Business School, a Post Graduate Diploma in Housing Policy and Management at University of Northumbria and Newcastle University and a BA (HONS) in Social Policy and Administration at Leeds polytechnic

Cath, 44, lives in Hartlepool with her husband Alan.

Vela Group, which began operating on December 13 2010, embraces Housing Hartlepool and Stockton-based Tristar Homes.

The two organisations will retain their distinct identities and continue to operate as separate entities with their own housing stocks.
For more information, go to: www.vela

'No Win No Fee' Legal System Continues To Be Bad News For Businesses

2011-11-22T09:09:22Z

Henderson Insurance Brokers Teesside Director Jonathan Willett says Government plans to reform the 'no win no fee' legal system will not completely prevent soaring motor insurance costs.

The Government is set to ban lawyers from buying data on drivers involved in accidents, a practice that has been blamed for rocketing car insurance premiums, including those for businesses that run company car and lorry fleets.

Known as "referral fees", the payments are routinely made by personal injury lawyers to secure drivers' details from insurance companies, garages and claims management films. Lawyers then contact drivers encouraging them to make 'no win no fee' claims. The solicitors can them claim the fees back from the defendant or their insurer.

The practice is estimated to be worth £3bn a year, and successful claims are paid in most cases by insurance policies. Insurers have covered the cost by passing it on to policyholders in the form of higher premiums.

Under the system a lawyer sues for compensation. If they win, they can recover their costs and their 'no win, no-fee' mark-up on their costs from the losing defendant - or in most cases the defendant's insurance company - which will cover the amount they paid out as a referral fee.

Insurance companies are having to charge higher premiums, including motor policies to cover the cost of these cases.

However, Mr Willett says that the compensation culture now is so ingrained in society that the 'no win no fee' system will still continue to impact on motor insurance premiums.

It is estimated that the practice of 'no win no fee' adds an average of ten per cent to the cost of insurance*.

Mr Willett said: "The issue centres on the fact that people putting in a claim do not make a direct contribution to the costs of the legal case and this is set to continue.

"If they had to pay towards the legal fees they would think twice about trying to secure compensation for very minor injuries.

"No-one would want to prevent people who have a genuine case from making a claim. However, the 'no win no fee' system encourages people who have been involved in a minor accident or incident to take a punt at trying to win some compensation.

"The losers under this system are all those, including companies, when it comes to motor insurance policies as the premiums are higher as a result."

Mr Willett also questioned whether the volume of 'no win no fee' adverts that are broadcast, and the system being promoted on the back of hospital appointment cards and on posters in doctors' surgeries was appropriate.

Henderson Insurance Brokers is one of the top five leading insurance brokers operating from 11 offices across the UK and delivering for clients in all industry sectors.

The company has specialist divisions in construction, real estate, retail/wholesale and haulage - as well as strong expertise in risk management and manufacturing.

The Henderson portfolio also comprises a specialist Lloyd's business, Contractsure, and further divisions for surety services, risk management, healthcare and real estate development.

The company also undertakes general business insurance by drawing on more than two decades of experience to deliver tailored packages.

* The Association of British Insurers estimates that 10% is added to every motor insurance policy to pay for legal costs. The ABI says that for every £1 motor insurers pay out in compensation, an extra 87 pence is paid out in legal costs.

For more information log onto www.hibl.co.uk

Second Persistent ASB Offender Jailed

2011-11-14T13:13:11Z

Tristar Homes has sent out a stark warning to persistently troublesome tenants after a second of its residents was jailed for anti-social behaviour.

John Knowleson, 40, Dryburn Road, Hardwick, has been given a 28 day custodial sentence after repeatedly breaching orders to curb his anti-social behaviour.

Mr Knowleson was convicted at Teesside Combined Court after being accused of shouting, swearing, and abusive behaviour.

This follows him repeatedly ignoring requests to abide by his tenancy agreement. . He was originally served with an Acceptable Behaviour Contract and following a number of breaches of this, it was decided to apply for an Anti Social Behaviour Injunction. After breaching this, he appeared in court and a 14 day suspended prison sentence was imposed.

Further anti-social behaviour led to him being served with a 28 day custodial sentence.

Tristar now has started eviction proceedings against Mr Knowleson.

This custodial sentence comes after Tristar tenant Derek Johnson, 76, of Rosslare Road, Roseworth, was jailed for 28 days after regularly breaching an injunction to curtail his anti-social behaviour.

Paul Noddings, Housing Operations Manager for Tristar Homes, said: "These two court cases illustrate Tristar's commitment and determination to use the full power of the courts against the small number of tenants who persistently behave anti socially and remove the torment of anti-social behaviour from its neighbourhoods.

"In collaboration with partner agencies, we continually strive to make our neighbourhoods safe and peaceful places to live, including having a robust approach towards those who persistently shatter the calm and quiet of people's lives.

"These sentences demonstrate that social housing providers and the courts are committed to improving the quality of residents' environments by cracking down hard on those whose behaviour is anti-social.

"They also will act as a warning that we will take the appropriate action to deal with persistent ASB offenders."

The transfer followed a ballot of all tenants in summer 2010, in which 89% approved the proposal.

Tristar Homes is part of Vela Group, which began operating in December 2010 and also embraces Housing Hartlepool.

For more information, go to: www.tristarhomes.co.uk or www.velagroup.co.uk

Vela New Recruits Begin Apprenticeships

2011-11-07T14:31:05Z

The Vela Group, which embraces Housing Hartlepool and Tristar Homes, has recruited 23 young apprentices from the region in a variety of disciplines.

The apprenticeships are in a number of traditional trades as well as modern professions. They comprise nine in administration, eight in housing and two in bricklaying, two in joinery, one in information technology and one electrician.

Since the formation of Vela, one of the Group's key objectives has been to provide new schemes to help get people into work and to recruit more trainees.

These apprenticeships are the result of the formation of the Vela Group, without which Housing Hartlepool and Tristar Homes would only have been able to offer five apprenticeships between them.

The training lasts up to four years with the apprentices gaining work-based practical experience, as well as, benefitting from a college course in a related subject.

Vela has worked in association with Hartlepool College, Springboard and Connect To Work to establish these apprenticeships.

Bernadette Stainsby, Vela's Head of Human Resources, said: "These apprenticeships give young people a chance to work and earn money. "Apprentices gain solid skills, not only in their chosen course subject, but in life skills and how to interact with others in the workplace.

"Apprentices get the best of both worlds by being able to attend college at the same time as working in a professional setting. They are able to earn while they learn and get a strong foothold on the career ladder."

Vela Group, which began operating on December 13 2010,embraces Housing Hartlepool and Stockton-based Tristar Homes.

The two organisations will retain their distinct identities and continue to operate as separate entities with their own housing stocks.
For more information, go to: www.vela

VELA APPOINTS GROUP DIRECTOR OF PROPERTY SERVICES

2011-11-02T12:44:19Z

Vela, which embraces Housing Hartlepool and Tristar Homes, has appointed an industry professional with more than 30 years' experience in the building and construction sector as Group Director of Property Services.

Mike Kay, a Chartered Surveyor with a Master's degree in Business Administration, has worked for a number of housing associations and local authorities in asset and property management, development and regeneration.

Mike has held several senior management positions most recently as Director of Property Services and Regeneration with the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, which was named Council of the year 2010.

He also is a former Chief Executive of Yarlington Housing Group and Director of Asset Management for South Somerset Homes.

Mike has wide-ranging experience in a non-executive director capacity including as a statutory appointee for the former Housing Corporation.

He also was instrumental in setting up Advantage South West, one of the country's most successful procurement companies, which won the Housing Corporation's inaugural Gold award for Innovation in 2006 and the CIPS supply management award for best small business in 2009.

Cath Purdy, Vela Group Chief Executive, said: "Mike Kay has an exceptional track record of delivering strategic leadership and overseeing complex strategies, business plans and projects to a successful conclusion.

"His excellent understanding of the sector and its opportunities and challenges make him the ideal candidate for this new post.

"His expertise will be invaluable as Vela drives its ambitious regeneration, housing improvement and service delivery plans forward."

Mike said: "Vela is a vibrant new social housing and regeneration group which encompasses two established and highly regarded housing providers.

"The attraction of being Vela's Group Director of Property Services is that it is a totally new role in which I can really make a difference.

"While Housing Hartlepool and Tristar Homes remain separate entities serving their local communities, I am looking forward to helping create synergies between them that will make the most effective and efficient use of their resources and provide the best services and outcomes to residents."

Outside of work, Mike, who is married with two daughters, enjoys walking his Labrador dog, Pepsi and watching horse racing.

Vela Group, which began operating on December 13 2010, embraces Housing Hartlepool and Stockton-based Tristar Homes.

The two organisations will retain their distinct identities and continue to operate as separate entities with their own housing stocks.
For more information, go to: www.vela