SUMMER 2016
West Lothian
informing and involving West Lothian’s tenants
Local News
Free Home Security
Assisted Decoration Scheme
New Build
p12
p15
p16
p20
westlothian.gov.uk
Building new council homes
1
Could ventilating
your home improve
your health?
Having a well-insulated new build home, or one which has
benefited from energy efficiency measures, such as external
insulation, new windows and loft insulation, saves us money
on energy costs and keeps us warm in winter and cool in
summer. However, the lack of ventilation which often results
from modern standards of building may also have significant
implications for our health.
Poor indoor air quality, particularly in bedrooms, is hard to detect, but there are clear links between
poor ventilation and ill-health, so tenants should be aware of the potential build-up of chemicals in their
homes and the resulting impact these may have on health.
As housing becomes increasingly airtight, many people are not ventilating their homes effectively. As
a result they can contain a great number of pollutants from unlikely sources, such as dust, furniture,
condensation, mould, air fresheners, fragranced cleaning products and scented candles.
However, the good news is that small changes can make a big difference. For example, simply opening
a window or using mechanical ventilation (if fitted) when cooking or showering can help prevent the
build-up of condensation, mould and potentially harmful chemicals.
If you have trickle vents fitted in your windows, try to ensure these are open all
year round to allow fresh air to circulate in your home.
2
Young women
in construction
West Lothian Council’s apprenticeship scheme has helped
hundreds of young people gain vital training and employment
opportunities within building and construction trades.
Each year the council recruits new
young people from across West
Lothian, with many going on to win
national accolades for their work.
the opportunities which are open to
them within this area of work.
Executive councillor for services to
the community, George Paul added:
“The majority of council staff are
female but it is clear that not enough
women work in our trades’ services.
It is important to us that we have
a good balance within each of our
service areas.
However, although the scheme
attracts hundreds of applicants
each year, women are greatly underrepresented with the number of
female trade apprentices working for
the council still small, compared to
their male counterparts.
A number of young women
from Whitburn Academy and St.
Kentigern’s Academy attended
workshops and information sessions
which were organised by the
council’s Housing, Customer and
Building Services.
The aim of the sessions was to
encourage more young women into
apprenticeships in the trades. The
pupils took part in various “have a
go” workshops including; Plastering,
Electrical, Joinery, Painting, Plumbing
and Bricklaying. They also visited a
site so they could see the type of
work council apprentices undertake.
The council’s Building Services
Manager, Grant Taylor said: “The
service has a number of roles for
young people and we are keen
that more young women apply for
apprenticeships.
Future recruitment details will be
published on:
nthe council Facebook and Twitter
pages
nwww.westlothian.gov.uk
nwww.myjobscotland.gov.uk
“We have had fantastic female
apprentices in the past and our
programme offers first-class training
and employment opportunities for
young people each year. In the past,
a job within construction was seen
by many as a ‘man’s job’ but that is
simply not the case anymore. There
is absolutely no reason why a young
woman cannot work and thrive as
a trades apprentice – but we need
more young women to recognise
3
New Build Housing... how to ap
Did you know that as an existing council tenant, you can app
West Lothian Council give priority to existing council tenants
As an existing tenant, what
do you have to do?
If you do not have a current
housing application with us you
need to complete an application
form. You can do this by calling the
Customer Service Centre on 01506
280000 or by calling into your local
Council Information Service office.
Alternatively you can print out an
application form from the Housing
pages on the council website,
complete your details and return to
one of the addresses found at the
start of the form.
What then?
Once a new build property is ready
to let, our allocations team will look
at all West Lothian Council tenants
currently active on the housing list
and allocate properties in line with
our current Allocations Policy.
Right to Buy Ending
The Right to Buy (RTB) is ending for all tenants of social housing in
Scotland on 1 August 2016. After this date, all Council tenants and
Housing Association tenants will no longer be able to buy their home.
If you are considering buying your home, you
should firstly check with your local housing office
to see if you are eligible for the Right to Buy (RTB)
as some tenants are exempt. For example, if you
were awarded a brand new tenancy after 1 March
2011, you will not qualify. Tenancies awarded before
this date will generally have the Right to Buy, but
exclusions can still apply.
If you decide to buy your home, you will be
responsible for all your repair and maintenance costs.
You should also check with the Council to see if they
are planning any major repairs in the next few years
which would involve you paying a share.
As a Council tenant with a Scottish Secure Tenancy
you have considerable rights, such as:
• security of tenure
• repairs being carried out
• home improvement works including roof
replacement, roughcasting, central heating
upgrades and window replacements.
In addition you will benefit from the Scottish
Housing Quality Standard and The Energy Efficiency
Standard for Social Housing (EESSH); this target aims
4
to improve the energy efficiency of social housing in
Scotland by helping to reduce energy consumption,
fuel poverty and the emission of greenhouse gases.
The time you will have to buy your home before RTB
ends is called the notice period. The notice period
ends on 31 July 2016, any application made after this
date will not be accepted.
If you would like to make a RTB application you
should contact the Council on 01506 280000 or
call into a CIS office or speak to your local housing
officer. We will send out an application form for you
to complete and return to us. If you are thinking
about making a RTB request, it is important to get
trusted professional financial advice to make sure you
can get a mortgage and afford the repayments and
on-going repairs.
For further information on the ending of the Right
to Buy and how you may be affected, you can
download the Scottish Government booklet The
right to Buy Notice Period, Buying your Home
before Right to Buy Ends; Information for Scottish
Secure Tenants. You can also download the Right to
Buy Application Form at www.scotland.gov.uk or
telephone 0300 244 4000 or email [email protected]
pply
ply for one of our new build properties?
s when allocating new build housing.
New build sites in West Lothian:
Armadale
Broxburn
Livingston
Bathgate
East Calder
Pumpherston
Blackburn
Fauldhouse
Winchburgh
Bridgend
Linlithgow
Philpstoun
Tenants’ Self Service!
Housing, Customer and Building Services are delighted to announce the development of a new
website called Tenant Self Service. This means that council tenants will soon be able to use to check
their rent balances, make rent payments, set up Direct Debits, report and check the progress of
repairs you have logged with us.
The website is in the final stages of
being tested, with tenants and staff
giving feedback on the new site,
this ensures the site is working as
planned, and that when we launch
the new website, all our tenants find
their details easy to find, and can
easily update their details, check
their account, and pay their rent.
We invited some of our tenant
representatives who attend
our various network and panel
meetings, to a hands on training
session, which included registering
to use the site, and being shown
how to successfully find their way
around it.
end of the session everyone
had successfully completed the
registration and set up their personal
account, using their Rent Account
Number. The tenant representatives
were pleased with what they saw
and enjoyed having access to their
information for the first time.
The tenants’ Self Service website
will be launched in summer 2016.
Every tenant will receive a letter,
giving details of the registration
process that will need to be followed
to provide access. This exciting
new site provides tenants with the
chance to manage rent accounts,
make requests for assistance, and
contact us at a time and manner
that is convenient to them. The new
site reflects the way in which most
customers prefer to do business in
the 21st century and keeps HCBS
moving forward into providing
online access to our services to meet
the needs of our tenants.
Those who came along all had
varying skills in using computers,
from people who classed
themselves as “PC literate” to
some who needed some help
and guidance from staff. By the
5
Succeeding a tenancy
when a loved one dies
In the event of the death of a tenant (where the tenancy is the only or principal
home at the time of death) it is possible for a husband, wife, civil partner,
partner, carer or a member of the tenant’s family to have a legal right to
inherit the tenancy. This process is called succession and the law sets out who
is qualified to inherit the tenancy, and who would get priority if there is more
than one person who would qualify to succeed the tenancy.
Limit on Successions
A tenancy can only be inherited twice. If the tenancy
has already been inherited twice, there will be no
further right of succession unless there is a surviving
joint tenant to allow the Scottish Secure Tenancy to
continue.
First Priority:
n The tenant’s surviving spouse/civil partner
n Surviving joint tenant
n Tenant’s co-habitee or same sex partner provided
that the house has been their only or principal
home for at least six months immediately prior to
the death of the tenant (however this time period
will change to twelve months when the new
Housing (Scotland) Act 2014 comes into force).
Second Priority:
n A member of the tenant’s family who is at least 16
years old at the date of the tenants’ death, and who
was living in the house as his or her only or principal
home at the date of the tenant’s death
Third Priority:
n A carer who is aged 16 or over, who had given
up his or her previous only or principal home in
order to live at the house to care for the tenant or a
member of the tenant’s family.
In seeking the right of succession, you will be
requested to provide evidence to support your claim
and prove that you have been living at the tenancy
address. These could include utility bills, bank
statements and inclusion in voter’s roll.
(Advice and assistance can be provided and clarified
by your housing officer upon request.)
What if more than one person qualifies to
succeed?
If more than one person qualifies to inherit the tenancy
and they both have the same level of priority, they can
either:
n Decide among themselves who should get the
tenancy
n Ask for a joint tenancy
n Ask the council to decide.
If someone qualifies to inherit the tenancy but does
not want it, they should tell us in writing within four
weeks of the tenant’s death, and leave the house
within three months.
It is important that if there is a change to people living in your tenancy
that you notify us as soon as possible so that your household details are
kept up to date and are correct.
6
Save the date
This year, we are holding a Tenants Conference for tenants of West
Lothian Council. The conference will be held on 29 October 2016
and as a West Lothian Tenant, you are invited to attend.
The programme for the day will include workshops on Investing In and Building More Council
Homes, How your Rent Money is Spent and How we Allocate Council Homes. You have a right to be
consulted on housing matters, so if you have any opinions or views on any of these topics, please take this
opportunity to come along and share them with us.
There will be tea and coffee on arrival and a light lunch will be provided. There will also be some
information stalls and practical demonstrations.
If you are interested in coming along, please telephone the TP Team on 01506 280000, complete and
return the form below, or email us at [email protected]
Tenants Conference
I would like to come along to the Tenants Conference.
Name ......................................................................................................................................... Tel ...................................................................................................
Address .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Email .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Please return to TP Team, Civic Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston EH54 6FF.
Once we have received your note of interest in coming to the conference, we will contact you nearer
the time with further details.
Garden Makeover Winner 2015
At the Tenants and Residents Fun Day in October, Mr and
Mrs Davidson of Raeburn Rigg, Carmondean were the
lucky winners of one of our fabulous raffle prizes.
The prize was for a ‘Garden Makeover’ competition. This raffle
prize was donated by ISS, a Landscaping Company who works
with West Lothian Council and was worth a total of £1000.
Hugh Woods from ISS has met with Mr & Mrs Davidson to discuss
what work they would like carried out to their garden. The
makeover will be completed over the summer.
Mr & Mrs Davidson, with Hugh Woods,
ISS Manager and Bruce Adamson,
Housing, Customer &
Building Services
7
Protecting Public Funds
through sharing information
West Lothian Council is currently participating in an
exercise to promote the proper spending of public money.
The Council is required by law to protect the public funds it administers, so
where it is appropriate the council will share the information it gathers, with
other Council departments for the purposes of crime prevention. West Lothian
Council will also share information with external bodies responsible for
auditing or administering public funds, in order to prevent and detect fraud.
As part of this initiative, we are providing details of our tenants so that they can
be compared with information provided by other public bodies and also other
services within the Council. These data matches will be used to highlight issues
in the following areas:
• To identify illegal sub-letting of properties
• Tenants with multiple tenancies in one or more local authorities
• To identify failed asylum seekers who have no right to remain in the UK and
are a tenant of the local authority
• To identify abuse of the right to buy scheme
The existence of any questionable data will identify
the need for further investigation. If required, an
investigation will enable us to determine whether or not
tenancy fraud and/or housing benefit fraud exists.
These exercises are designed to help promote the best use
of public funds.
Further information is also available on our website www.westlothian.
gov.uk by clicking on council and government > council-general
information > council information, performance and statistics >
national fraud initiative. However, if you have any questions you
should contact Liz Calder on 01506 281872 or in writing at the Civic
Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 6FF. We
can also provide printed copies of information available on our website.
8
energy
efficiency
This investment in council homes
will be paid for from the Housing
Revenue Account, which is solely
funded by rental income from
council tenants.
One of the main programme of
works we have is installing external
wall insulation to houses that are
defined as “solid wall” meaning that
they have no cavity, so insulation
needs to be fixed to the outside of
the property.
As well as improving the energy
efficiency of the property, external
wall insulation also:
Improves the outside
appearance as a new render
finish is applied
Reduces the energy
consumption and cost of bills
Reduces the carbon footprint of
the property
Improves thermal efficiency,
meaning a home is warmer
for longer as less heat escapes
through the walls.
West Lothian Council is investing in measures to improve
the energy efficiency of our housing stock in order to
help tenants reduce fuel bills and tackle the number of
households living in fuel poverty in West Lothian.
Home owners are also able to
benefit from this project. They
are able to access a Scottish
Government grant under the HEEPS
scheme (Home Energy Efficiency
Programme for Scotland). The
average cost of the insulation works
is around £9000 with owners being
asked to contribute only £800 to
have the work carried out.
Over the next year we will be
performing external wall insulation
to properties in these areas.
Peveril Rise – Dedridge
Work has already started on
external wall insulation in Peveril
Rise with a pilot scheme of 22
houses, four of which are council
owned. With further funding
being made available the scheme
has been extended to a further 44
owners properties and 12 council
owned properties which will be
completed by June this year. A
further five owner properties and
one council property will be done
later in the year.
Kirkbrae – Longridge
In September we aim to launch
an external wall insulation project
to all the properties in Kirkbrae in
Longridge, which would include 31
owner properties and 20 council
owned properties in the street.
Details of the scheme will be
provided to residents of Kirkbrae
in the build up to the start of the
project.
Heaney Avenue – Pumpherston
In December we aim to launch an
external wall insulation project to
all the properties in Heaney Avenue
in Pumpherston, which would
include 46 owner properties and
23 council owned properties in the
street.
Details of the scheme will be
provided to residents of Heaney
Avenue in the build up to the start
of the project.
Above:
Houses having
EWI installed
House on left with External Wall Insulation (EWI) being
installed compared to house with no EWI.
House after EWI has been installed
9
Good Neighbour
Award
Everyone needs good neighbours, and
we would like you to tell us about yours.
We know that there are many people living in West
Lothian who deserve to be recognised for their
thoughtfulness and consideration to their neighbours.
We would like to give you the chance to pay tribute to
someone special, either adult or young person, whose
kindness has made a real difference to your lives or
that of another neighbour.
A good neighbour could be someone who:
n looks after your home or pet when you are on
holiday
n puts out and brings your bin in
n helps out with gardening or shopping
n has been there when you needed someone to talk to
n OR someone who is simply a good neighbour all
the time.
Nominations can be made by completing the
nomination form below and sending it to TP Team,
HCBS, West Lothian Council, Howden South
Road, Livingston EH54 6FF or by email to tp@
westlothian.gov.uk. The closing date for entries is
Friday 26 August 2016
All nominees will receive a certificate and flowers.
The overall winner will receive a certificate, flowers
and £50 in shopping vouchers. The winner and
all those nominated will be invited to this year’s
Tenants Conference in October to be recognised
for their good neighbourliness and to receive their
certificates.
Your own contact details:
Name
Tel No
Address
Your Good Neighbour’s contact details:
Name
Tel No
Address
Tell us about your ‘Good Neighbour’ and why you think they should win?
Terms and Conditions:
• Either you and/or your ‘good neighbour’ should be a West Lothian Council Tenant. Sorry, but we can’t accept
nominations from a family member or someone living in the same property as you.
• Your ‘good neighbour’ can be any age.
• OurTenants’Panelwilljudgeentries–theirdecisionisfinal.
• We will write to you to let you know if your entry has been successful and we will also write to the
‘Good Neighbour’ to let them know that they have been nominated.
• West Lothian Council will seek agreement from all parties before we use any details for publicity.
10
Paying Rent is not
A Matter of Choice
if you’re struggling – seek help today!
Why is it important that I pay my rent?
When you accepted your tenancy you signed a legal
agreement to pay your rent on time. If you have broken
that agreement we can take action against you that
could put your home at risk. If you do not pay your rent,
it makes it more difficult for us to fund services to tenants
such as repairs and maintenance to council homes.
What should I do if I miss a rent payment?
It is very important that you contact your housing officer
immediately. They will do everything they can to help
you, but we need your co-operation from the earliest
stage, before the problem becomes serious.
Can I get help to pay my rent?
You may qualify for Housing Benefit to help with your
rent. However, it is your responsibility to make the claim
and return all the information required on time. If you
require assistance in completing the application, we will
gladly assist.
What can you do to help me?
Our housing officers are trained to help you by:
n offering assistance to ensure you receive your full
entitlement to Housing Benefit
n providing you with welfare and debt advice or by sign
posting/making a referral to an independent advice
agency
Points to remember
n You can get advice and help from your housing officer
or the Council’s Advice Shop (01506 283000)
n Make sure you get in touch with us as soon as you miss
a payment
n There are lots of places offering independent advice
and support about any debt problems, such as Citizens
Advice or Money Advice Scotland. We can also put you
in touch with a debt advisor.
n Do not ignore any letters we send you, the problem
will not go away unless you do something about it
n Make sure you sort out any Housing Benefit claim as
soon as possible
n If court action becomes necessary, we will charge you
the cost of this, so it is always best that you avoid this
action.
MONEY ADVICE SCOTLAND
T: 0141 572 0237
E: [email protected]
www.moneyadvicescotland.org.uk
CITIZENS ADVICE
T: 01506 432977
E: [email protected]
www.cabwestlothian.org.uk
n carrying out an income/benefit health check to
maximise your income
n allowing you to repay the debt in instalments; and
n offering you other ways to pay and over other payment
periods, for example, weekly or monthly, or to pay by
direct debit.
What will happen if I ignore my arrears?
Every year across Scotland, an increasing number of local
authority tenants are evicted for failing to pay their rent
– West Lothian is no different. We will do everything in
our power to help you stay in your home, but we have no
legal obligation to house you if you refuse to pay arrears.
Do not let it get too late for us
to help you – contact us now on
01506 280000 or pop along to your
local CIS office.
11
local news local news local
Spotlight on The Riggs
Housing Networks
Communities can benefit from
getting together with likeminded
tenants and residents to discuss
and resolve local issues. Here we
highlight the effectiveness of one
such group.
Did you know that we have two Housing Networks
in West Lothian, who work with the Council, giving
their views and opinions on housing related
matters, such as New Build and Capital Programme
projects? Would you be interested in coming along
and joining other likeminded people?
For the past 18 months tenants and
residents from The Riggs area in Livingston
have come together to discuss issues
affecting them in their local community.
The networks, meet monthly, either together or individually,
except for the month of July (holiday time!). For example the
networks met individually in June, but will meet together for
a joint meeting on Tuesday 16 August at 11am, at the Whitburn
Tenant Resource Centre, 207 West Main Street, Whitburn.
Together with staff from various Council
services and regular attendance by the
community police, the group have worked
to improve the area in which they live.
They have carried out two community
walkabouts, highlighting litter and
debris (that was quickly cleared up),
environmental repairs to footpaths and
fencing, which have been reported to the
appropriate services with a quick response
received.
Some of the issues discussed at meetings
(such as the recent new bin sizes) have
also led to articles being placed in Tenants
News to inform all West Lothian Tenants.
Currently the group are working with
the local primary school to help with a
community initiative.
If you are interested in setting up a group
in another area or you live in this area and
would be interested in attending this group
please speak to your local housing team on
01506 280000 or email TP@WestLothian.
gov.uk.
As a tenant of West Lothian Council, you have a right to be
consulted on matters relating to your home and how it’s
managed. If you would like to find out a bit more about the work
of the networks or you would like to come along to a network
meeting, please contact the TP Team by telephone on 01506
280000 or be emailing [email protected]. Everyone will
be welcome and tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided.
New Tenants
Website Launched
WEST LOTHIAN TENANTS
Tenants who want to take part
The Tenant Participation Development Working
Group have been busy working on a new website
for West Lothian Council Tenants, and we are
delighted to announce that this is up and running
and ready for browsing.
The site aims to promote the interests of Registered Tenants and
Residents Organisations, individual tenants and service users.
The aim of the website is to:
n Enhance tenant and service user awareness on standards
and quality of housing services
n Encourage West Lothian Council and other Social Landlords
to improve housing and related services
n Assist in the development of safe, secure, inclusive and
sustainable local communities
n Promote tenant and service user involvement in decision
making regarding housing and related services.
Take a look and tell us what you think of the new look by
logging onto: www.wltenantsnetwork.co.uk
12
news local news local news local news
Bathville Cross, Armadale
A new Tenants and Residents Group has been
set up for Bathville Cross, Armadale.
Tenants and residents meet on the last Thursday of the
month at 1pm in the Armadale Bowling Club, South Street
to discuss the refurbishment work and new build housing
that is underway at Bathville Cross. Council staff attend
the group to provide updates on progress of the work and
to answer any questions and concerns the tenants and
residents may have. There is a monthly newsletter that is
circulated to all people living in the blocks that are affected
by the refurbishment.
The work at the first block at Mayfield Court is well
underway with new windows and doors installed and
work done to the roof; the work to blocks at South Street
are also progressing well.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the tenants
and residents of the Bathville blocks for their input to the
group and their patience while the work is underway.
Boghall Tenants and
Residents Association
This group has been active in Boghall for a
number of years. It is a multi-tenure group,
meaning it is made up of council tenants,
West Lothian Housing Partnership tenants
and other local residents.
The group is very well attended and meets every other
month to raise and tackle issues affecting local people.
They continue to work together with council staff and
councillors to make Boghall a safer and better place to
live and work.
The group have recently highlighted issues with cars
driving in the precinct in Bathgate, dog fouling, public
transport, speed bumps around Boghall, bollards at the
school and many more local areas of concern.
If you would like to join the group or you have an issue
that you think they could help you with, the group meet
in the afternoons at Boghall Primary, Community Wing.
For details of the next meeting, please call the TP Team
on 01506 280000 or email [email protected]
East Bathgate and
Marchwood Drive
Tenants and Residents
Association
The association have been holding
meetings for tenants and residents in
their area of Bathgate for many years.
They have successfully campaigned on issues
affecting the town, including silencing train horns
that were being sounded throughout the wee
small hours of the morning, disturbing sleep for
many people.
They are currently working on traffic calming issues
around the area of Marjoribanks Street/Kirk Road,
and hope to have their petition signed by as many
local people as possible. They will be publicising
this in local shops and by carrying out a door
knocking campaign, asking tenants and residents
to sign up and support the campaign.
The group meets in the evening on the last
Thursday of every month and is open to everyone
living in the local area. If you would like more
information or are interested in attending, please
call the TP Team on 01506 280000 or email TP@
westlothian.gov.uk
13
West Lothian Council runner up
at UK Housing Awards
pic to come
West Lothian Council has been praised by housing experts at the
highly prestigious UK Housing Awards, after being named as one of
the UK’s top three Local Authorities.
West Lothian Council were
shortlisted in two categories for the
UK Housing Awards 2016 which
were held recently. The awards,
which recognise outstanding
work by housing organisations to
improve the lives of people in their
communities, are organised by the
Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH)
and Inside Housing magazine.
14
Programme of the Year Category.
The judges said: “The finalists
this year were incredibly diverse,
representing some of the largest
and smallest landlords in the sector,
and between them meet a huge
variety of different needs.”
West Lothian Council’s 1,000 new
build housing programme was
Highly Commended in the Local
Authority of the Year category –
coming second to Manchester
City Council who is one of the UK’s
largest councils.
Executive councillor for services
for the community, George Paul
said “West Lothian Council were
the only Scottish council to be
recognised at the UK Housing
awards, highlighting the innovation,
commitment and vision that the
council has in terms of providing
more, affordable homes for local
communities.
The council was also a finalist in
the Outstanding Development
“I’d like to congratulate all
the council staff involved in
delivering the 1,000 new homes
project. Everyone involved in this
programme will be absolutely
delighted that West Lothian Council
were recognised at the UK Housing
Awards. Building 1,000 new council
homes across the nine council ward
areas will help satisfy the demand
for affordable housing in West
Lothian and enhance communities
for generations to come.”
Emma Maier, editor of Inside
Housing, said: “The quality of
the entries rose again this year so
even to get this far is an amazing
achievement. In the face of some
really stiff competition, West Lothian
Council has shown it is performing
at the highest level - well done!”
We would like to express our gratitude to our
customers for taking the time to say “Thank You”
to our staff for a job well done.
Over the year we have had lots of thank you cards,
phone calls and letters from customers who have
been so delighted with work carried out to their
homes, or with help and support they have received,
that they have taken the time to send their thanks.
These messages of thanks mean a lot to our staff in
Housing, Customer and Building Services; it is good
for them to know that their hard work is appreciated.
Here are some of the messages received:
Tenant had new
heating system installed and
called to say “Team was 1st class
and absolutely brilliant and
courtesy was second to none.
They have tidied up and were
just great!
To Lorna,
Many thanks for
getting me into my new
little house so quickly,
you are a star!
I would like to thank the
two men who repaired the roof on
my WLC house recently. James the
roofer and Chick the labourer were
very courteous and unobtrusive. As a
wheelchair user they made sure I could
get in and out the house past the
scaffolding when I needed to. They
are a credit to the Council.
Customer would like to
thank Mark for all the help
he gave her when moving
into her new home. The
customer appreciated all
his help and support
Customer wanted to
compliment Katrina, the young
officerwhowasvisitingtenants
to discuss unkempt gardens. He
was impressed with the results
and wished to say it was much
appreciated.
We had one of your
young plumbers out to
clear a blocked drain and
we would like to say what a
really good job she made of
it. Well done to the
young lady!
Free Home Security Scheme
All over 60s living in West Lothian are eligible to apply for a range
of simple home security measures to be fitted to their home.
This scheme is available to
owner-occupiers, council tenants,
housing association tenants and
private rented tenants. (If your
landlord is someone other than
West Lothian Council, you will be
required to seek their permission
prior to applying for the scheme).
All installations are free of charge
and will be undertaken by the
Council’s Building Services
Operatives. The installation team
will offer advice to applicants to
establish the most convenient
location for the security measures
to be installed.
Applicants can choose to have one
of each of these security measures
installed:
1. Motion activated security light
2. Phone intercom system
3. Window locks throughout the
home (timber windows only)
4. Door chain (timer doors only)
5. Door spy hole
Once the installation is complete
the council will repair or replace
any faulty components for one
year for council tenants only.
(Owner occupiers, housing
association or private rented
tenants will be responsible for all
maintenance post installation).
For more information or to request
an application form, pop into
your local Customer Information
Service office (See back page for
details) or contact the Customer
Service Centre:
Tel: 01506 280000 or email:
customer.service@westlothian.
gov.uk
15
Assisted Decoration Scheme
In 2015 we introduced the Assisted Decoration Scheme, which
was designed to benefit tenants of West Lothian Council who
are either senior citizens or of limited physical capacity, who are
unable to decorate their home without assistance.
The scheme allows for one room, chosen by the tenant, to be decorated by Building Services staff.
Since this innovative scheme was introduced, we are delighted to advise that over 180 council tenants have
benefited by having a room of their choice decorated. Mrs Lawrie of Blackburn commented “many thanks for
everything and a job well done”. Mrs Sharp of Dedridge commented “I appreciate having my kitchen decorated.
It looks lovely and fresh and the painters were very industrious and left the place tidy”.
Scheme Qualifications
To take advantage of this scheme, we have certain
criteria that must be met. We have shown these
below.
Restrictions
Your rent account must be up to date, you cannot
apply if you have current rent arrears, unless you
have made an agreement to repay it and the Local
Housing Officer agrees that payments have started
and are being maintained
Applications will not be accepted for anyone
who has an able bodied adult member of the
household residing in the property who is under
the age of 65
If the scheme rules are found to have been
breached, e.g. false certification of no able-bodied
household members under 65, the full costs will be
recharged to the applicant.
Older people of pensionable age
Proof of age will be requested before acceptance
onto the scheme. You must sign the application
and complete Question 3 about able bodied under
65 household members.
Households of singular or multiple people
of reduced physical capacity
An assessment of permanently reduced physical
capacity and proof of no capable household
members will be needed before acceptance onto
the scheme. You must sign the application and
complete Question 3 about able bodied under 65
household members.
How the Scheme works
16
This scheme will run for another two
years, up to and including 2017, with
a limited budget set aside for each
year; meaning that there is only a
certain amount of work that we will
be able to carry out annually.
Once an application has been
assessed, we will contact the tenant
to let them know their application
has been received. We will then
assess each application and whether
this has been successful or not.
Applications will be dealt with on
a first come first served basis. (If
necessary, severe cases may be
prioritised by the consideration of an
Assessment Panel).
An inspection will then be carried
out in all successful applicants’
homes to determine the extent
of the decoration work required.
Tenants will be notified prior to the
inspection being carried out.
What’s available on the scheme?
scheme Limitations
Stairways, top and bottom
landings/hallways are excluded
from papering due to health and
safety. Painting alone is available.
Preparation of the room i.e. stripping, filling, lining paper
Painting of walls, ceilings and woodwork and/or wallpapering
Tenants can choose from a wallpaper pattern book supplied by
WLC at no cost or choose to provide their own at their expense
Plastering to full rooms or full
walls are excluded from this
scheme.
Choice of paint colours
Assistance can be given to clearing out the room prior to work
commencing
How to apply
We are currently looking for more applications for the rest of this financial year, example
so if you are interested, and you think you would be eligible for this decoration
AD Scheme
scheme please fully complete this application form. You can return it by post,
hand it into your local council office or email it to michael.whelan@westlothian.
Michael Whelan
West Lothian Council
gov.uk
Civic Centre
Howden South Road
If returning by post or to your local council office, please mark your envelope on the
Livingston
front top left with ‘AD Scheme’, to identify it as an application and send to:
EH54 6FF
Michael Whelan, West Lothian Council, Civic Centre, Howden South Rd,
Livingston, EH54 6FF
Assisted Decoration Scheme – Application Form
Applicant’s Name (Print) ............................................................................................................................................................................................
Address .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................... Post code .....................................................
Contact no. ....................................................... Email address ...........................................................................................................................
1. Preferred method of contact (please tick)
Post
Telephone
Email
Text
2. Are you an older person of pensionable age?
Yes
No
3. Are there any able bodied members of the household aged between 18 and 65?
Yes
No
4. Do you have a permanent Disability that prevents you from decorating?
Yes
No
5. Which room would you like decorated? (please tick one box only)
Living room
Bedroom
Bathroom
Kitchen
Stairway (paint only)
Other (please specify) .......................................................................................................................................................................................
6. Any additional information ...........................................................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Signature (Mandatory) ...............................................................................................................................................
The above signature certifies all of the above information and any false information may
lead to costs being recharged to the applicant.
17
Baked Potato...
Pizza Style!
This budgetfriendly supper
combines two
favourites in one
dish.
Serves 4
What you need:
n 4 baking potatoes
n 1 tbsp olive oil
n Half red onion, chopped finely
n 1 clove of garlic, crushed
n Pack of sliced pepperoni, chopped
n 400g tin of chopped tomato
n Some chopped basil leaves
n 100g grated mozzarella (or cheddar)
What you do:
n Heat oven to 200C, 180C Fan or Gas Mark 6
n Wash the potatoes (if required) and dry well
n Prick several times with a fork and bake directly
on the oven shelf for about an hour and a half,
until they feel soft
n While the potatoes are cooking, heat the oil in
a small pan and saute the onion for five mins to
soften
n Add in the garlic and pepperoni and cook for 2
mins, then add the chopped tomatoes
n Bring to the boil, then simmer for five mins
n Season with salt and pepper and stir in half the
basil
n Once the potatoes are cooked, remove from oven
and cut open
n Spoon in the cooked filling, sprinkle with a
handful of cheese and some basil, then enjoy!
18
e
p
i
c
e
R o rner
C
Individual Strawberry
Cheesecakes
To make these
lower in calories
use low fat
versions for the
soft cheese and
greek yogurt.
Serves 4
What you need:
n 85g biscuits (digestive or ginger nuts)
n 200g tub soft cheese
n 200g tub greek yogurt
n 4 tbsp caster sugar
n 2 or 3 drops of vanilla extract
n 2 tbsp strawberry jam (use your favourite)
n 100g fresh strawberry, hulled and sliced
What you do:
n Break up the biscuits with a rolling pin (you
want to have chunky crumbs)
n Divide the biscuits between four small bowls
n Beat the yogurt, soft cheese, sugar and vanilla
together until nice and smooth
n Spoon the yogurt mixture over the crumbs
and chill until you are ready to serve
n Stir the jam in a bowl to loosen it up, then stir
in the strawberries
n Spoon the jam mixture evenly between the
four bowls and serve.
Complaints
How we deal with complaints has improved well over
the last year. The number of complaints resolved
within the 20 day timescale has gone up from 71.1%
in 2014/2015 to 86.7% in 2015/2016. This is due to an
improvement in the way we deal with and investigate
what has caused a tenant to complain.
We want you to tell us if you have had a problem with
any service you have received from us. By telling us
where you have experienced problems, we are able to
identify where issues lie and can work on improvements
which make the services we provide better for you.
Complaint Reason
Number
Standard of Service
Poor Communication
Policy Related
Waiting Time
Employee Attitude
Missed Appointments
Miscellaneous
TOTALS
336
122
97
90
78
16
5
744
Percentage*
44.8%
16.5%
13.3%
12.5%
10.9%
2.1%
0.67%
*Over 100% due to some complaints being about more than one category
As you can see from the table above, in the year 2015/2016,
we received a total of 744 complaints. The complaints which
were received have then been broken down into categories
and although each complaint is investigated individually, by
grouping complaints into these categories, we can identify
where improvements to our procedures can be made in
order to prevent similar complaints occurring in future.
There has been a reduction in the percentage of ‘Standard
of Service’ complaints from 49.6% to 45.16%. Although
complaints in this category cover a range of reasons why
customers are dissatisfied, we can carry out a detailed
assessment of this group to identify if there are reoccurring
themes.
We also look at the service areas where complaints have been
raised. By doing so we have found that the highest percentage
of the complaints received are against our Building Services
(494 complaints) and the lowest relates to Construction
Services (21 complaints). Over the next year, we will be
focussing on keeping customers better informed when there
are outstanding or necessary repairs required in properties.
Customer Information Service has moved
West Lothian Council is advising customers that the Customer Information Service
(CIS) has moved from West Lothian Connected in The Centre in Livingston to
Arrochar House which is on Almondvale Boulevard.
TO LET/MAY SELL
The office is now located in the building on the south
side of the river Almond, opposite West Lothian Civic
Centre. There is limited disabled parking available.
Opening hours are:
Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 8.30am to 5pm;
Wednesday, 10am to 5pm; and Friday, 8.30am to 4pm.
The payments facility closes 30 minutes before the office
in the evening. A self-service payment machine will be
available by the end of June.
A number of other council services will also be located
at Arrochar House, including: Social Policy, Business
Gateway and Livingston Housing Office. Several other
council services will also operate drop in sessions,
including the Advice Shop (appointments for the Advice
Shop can be made by phoning 01506 283000).
A spokesperson for West Lothian Council said: “West
Lothian Council is committed to ensuring that buildings
are modern, energy efficient and fit for purpose. Over
the years the council has made significant savings by
reducing the number of older buildings, ensuring that
properties are used in the most effective
way, coCIVIC SQUARE / LIVINGSTON
locating services and supporting a more mobile and
flexible workforce. There are also significant benefits for
customers as they can access a range of council services
in one location which makes referrals much easier.”
ARROCHAR HOUSE
19
new build council
housing
Building new council homes
The council continues to build a number of developments around West Lothian.
new homes at
Pumpherston
Fourteen brand new
council homes for rent will
be handed over in early
summer at Pumpherston.
Accessible bungalows nearing completion in April 2016
The new housing which is to be
known as Hamilton Court has
been built on the site of the former
primary school which was replaced
in 2012 by Pumpherston and Uphall
Station Community Primary School.
The housing consists of 12 one and
two bedroom cottage flats, and two
wheelchair accessible bungalows.
The new homes are being
constructed by Lovell Partnerships
with funding from West Lothian
Council and a grant contribution
from the Scottish Government.
The 14 houses will form part of the
council’s 1000 New Build Council
Housing programme.
Work progressing on site at Almond Link, Livingston
The sod cutting early this year at Almond Link, Livingston marked the official start of
building on the banks of the River Almond.
Construction has been progressing well at a
prominent site on the approach road to the
town centre where 20 new homes are being
built by Lovell Partnerships.
The development is set within Almondvale
Park, where the council is currently upgrading
the area alongside the riverbank to create a
vibrant outdoor space in the heart of Livingston
– a great place for people and for wildlife.
Park works include the sowing of wildflower
meadows, the creation of viewing platforms
over the river, building a new adventure
playpark, path upgrades for walking and cycling,
street lighting, artworks in the underpasses and
underbridges, a measured walk or run, and
new benches, bins and picnic areas.
Residents here will be well connected to
Livingston’s footpath, cycle network and green
corridors.
20
Housing takes shape at Kirkhill, Broxburn – semi-detached houses under
construction at Careldubs Crescent.
Coming soon...
New houses being built at Pumpherston
Progress with area
improvements at
Deans South
The regeneration of the Deans
South estate is gathering pace.
In April 2016 the demolition of housing was
completed on the area of the site on which
McTaggart Construction will build 54 houses
for the council. Planning permission is in place
and a start on the new houses is expected in the
summer.
The demolition programme is due to be
completed by the end of July. This will release a
further site for the development of new council
housing, part of which will be used by Lovell
Partnerships to build a further 63 new homes.
Both the McTaggart and Lovell sites form part of
the council’s current 1,000 new council houses
project.
New housing is also due to be completed and
ready for let at Auldhill Cottages, Bridgend where
5 new wheelchair accessible bungalows are being
built by McTaggart Construction.
Also handing over in late Summer and early Autumn will be
the first phases of completions at Redhouse in Blackburn
and Kirkhill in Broxburn. The first completions at Blackburn
form part of a 100 homes development.
At Kirkhill, Broxburn where 230 houses are currently under
construction the first homes, a mix of cottage flats and
semi-detached houses, will also be available for rent in the
forthcoming months. Lovell Partnerships is constructing the
housing on both sites.
Further phased handovers will take place at both sites
during the course of 2016.
Future sites...
Construction will also shortly be underway at
the following sites. More updates will follow in
future editions of Tenants’ News.
n Almondell, Calderwood,
n Almondvale Stadium,
n Wester Inch, Bathgate
n Deans South, Livingston
n Eastfield, Fauldhouse
n Appleton Parkway,
East Calder
n Drumshoreland,
Pumpherston
n Mayfield, Armadale
Livingston
Livingston
n Lammermuir, Livingston
n Winchburgh
Site clearance at Deans South, Livingston
21
Sod cutting at The Avenue, Philpstoun in Spring 2016
Sod cutting at Philpstoun
In May representatives from West Lothian Council
and Lovell Partnerships performed the official sod
cutting to mark the start of construction of four
cottage flats and one house at Philpstoun in the
village centre.
As only 12% of the original council houses in Philpstoun remains
in council ownership, this small development will provide high
quality, affordable housing to rent in the village. Affordable housing
developer, Lovell Partnerships, is constructing the new homes at
Philpstoun for West Lothian Council. Lovell has also installed a
public access path into the nearby Bowling Club which is suitable for
disabled access.
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22
There are a number of added benefits
to the new build project including
new apprenticeships and training and
employment opportunities for local
people and businesses.
The Council’s 1,000 new council
homes is a major project which is
fully focused on providing affordable
homes for people in West Lothian
to meet the needs of our local
communities.
An important part of the project is
the community benefits that this
construction project will bring with it,
including training and employment
opportunities for local people.
Also under construction
n
Work on the first three new build council homes at Bathville
Cross, Armadale commenced in April. This is part of the area
improvement programme for the Bathville area. Future phases
including the construction of a further 15 new flats will begin in
summer this year
n
In East Calder construction is underway on housing at Raw
Holdings (15 units)
n
Work is progressing well at 15 new homes at McTaggart
Construction’s Mill Road, Linlithgow site.
n
The construction of nine homes also by McTaggart at Glasgow
Road, Bathgate is due to be completed in Autumn 2016.
Summer
wordsearch competition
Our Summer wordsearch has been
created using words associated with
summertime.
The winner of the £25 from the
Spring 2016 edition was Mr
Anderson from West Calder.
If you would like to be our next £25
winner, please complete and return to:
TP Team, Housing, Construction
and Building Services
West Lothian Council, Civic Centre
Howden Road South
Livingston EH54 6FF
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Your name:
Your telephone number:
Your address:
Our customer information service offices
email: [email protected]
Almondbank Centre
Shiel Walk, Craigshill
Armadale CIS
(Payments Facility available)
1/3 East Main Street
Armadale
Bathgate Partnership Centre
(Payments Facility Available)
Lindsay House, South Bridge St
Bathgate
Strathbrock Partnership Centre
189a West Main Street, Broxburn
Blackburn Connected
The Mill Centre, Blackburn
Carmondean Connected
(Payments Facility Available Self-service kiosk)
Deans, Livingston
Fauldhouse CIS
(within Fauldhouse P’ship Centre)
Lanrigg Road, Fauldhouse
Linlithgow CIS
(within Linlithgow Library)
The Vennel, High Street
Linlithgow
Livingston CIS
(Payments Facility Available)
Arrochar House, Civic Square
Almondvale Boulevard
Livingston
West Calder CIS
(within West Calder Library)
Harburn Road,
West Calder
Whitburn CIS
(Payments Facility Available)
5 East Main Street, Whitburn
www.westlothian.gov.uk online 24 hours a day
Log on and you can:
n
Pay your council tax, rent, or
fines online
n
Apply for a house
n
Report a repair to your home
n
Make an enquiry for
information
n
Make a comment on any
council service
For all enquiries call our Customer Service Centre on
01506 280000
Social Work Emergency Number:
01506 281028 (Social Work Only)
For all other emergencies call:
01506 280000
If you have used the council’s complaints procedure
and you are still unhappy, you can pass your complaint,
within a year, to:
The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman,
Freepost EH641, Edinburgh EH3 0BR
Tel: 0800 377 7330
www.spso.org.uk
Customers with special requirements
Information is available in Braille, tape, large print
and community languages. Please contact the
interpretation and translation service on
01506 280000
Text phones offer the opportunity for people with a
hearing problem to access the council. The textphone
number is
01506 591 652
A loop system is also available in all offices.
We hope you have enjoyed reading Tenants News. If you would like to get in touch with the editorial panel please contact
us by writing to: TP Team, Housing, Customer and Building Services, West Lothian Council, Civic Centre, Howden
South Road, Livingston EH54 6FF or email [email protected]
23
If undelivered please return to:
The TP Team
West Lothian Council
Housing, Construction &
Building Services
West Lothian Civic Centre
Howden South Road,
LIVINGSTON EH54 6FF
24