FutureVOICE

Page 29

Spooky fun for Marcia

Page 4

Opportunities for ambassadors

Page 8

How I recovered from alcoholism

The magazine for Midland Heart’s supported housing customers

Talent night raises the roofpage 26

Cover photograph by Snow Hill customer Jayesh Parmar

Winter 2013

Welcome to Issue 22 of Future Voice, the first edition of 2013.I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year and are sticking to any New Year resolutions you made.

As many of you already know, I am leaving Midland Heart in February to take up my new role as Managing Director of Sanctuary Housing Group’s Supported Living business.

The most rewarding part of my job over the last 10 years has been meeting the customers that we work with.

When I began, yours was a voice that we occasionally consulted. I hope now that you feel that you are beginning to have a voice at the centre of our services. You have been challenging, inspiring, demanding and rewarding, but never dull.

You have reminded me of the importance of providing a high quality service and that excuses are simply not good enough.

I hope that you continue to work with my successor to demand, and be involved in developing the highest quality possible services.

A big thank you to everyone who has submitted stories and ideas for Future Voice since its launch in 2008. Please keep sending your stories and letters in – we couldn’t put the magazine together without your help.

With best wishes for the future

Chris MundayManaging Director of Midland Heart Care and Support

Midland Heart have joined forces with Wolverhampton Council to deliver the first combined mental health and complex needs service.This means that some of the most vulnerable people in the area are now receiving the support they need to face the future with some confidence.Bushbury Lane in Wolverhampton, a former youth services project, underwent a refurbishment before

re-opening its doors as a mental health and complex needs service in July.The new service, which works in partnership with Wolverhampton Supporting People, provides accommodation and support to adults who have been excluded from other services due to their challenging and/or complex needs.For the first time in many years the customers are living in a safe environment where they are enabled to feel more confident and maximise their independence.The service can accommodate 12 people in quality shared accommodation. As the customers progress they have the opportunity to move on to one of fourteen independent flats with floating support. Lynda Taylor, Service Manager told Future Voice: “I am proud to be involved in delivering this innovative service on behalf of local people with mental health problems and complex needs.”

it’s complex

Something different is happening in Wolverhampton

ContentsNew life on allotment 5

Stafford’s oasis of calm 10

Dear Fay 12

Tyze in Hereford 15 & 16

Transforming St Eugene’s 17

Beating the bullies 18

Amanda’s Big Issue 20

Calvert adventure 22 & 23

Photography competition 27

3

it’s complex

Lee Ball moved into Bushbury Lane in September from a direct access hostel in Wolverhampton.When Future Voice met him he was cooking up a tasty Caribbean curry ready for a visit from his son, Oliver.Lee said: “Since moving here my life is more settled and I have the space I need to focus. “I feel safe here and staff are always happy to listen. They don’t tell you to go away and come back in an hour.“I hope to move on soon into one of the independent units. It will be a new start and I’ll be able to spend more time with my son there.“This time last year I had nothing going on for me and my head was messed up. Thanks to the help I have had here I am looking forward to starting a new life in my own flat.”

Support worker Gary Richards said: “The service gives our customers the chance to regain some normality in their lives. “We have an excellent relationship with lots of local agencies and through these links can organise plenty of activities such as football, boxing and gardening at an allotment.“This gives customers the chance to meet people in the wider community and access services that they wouldn’t know about.“The feedback we have received is very positive and the main comment I hear is that customers feel safe here; they know someone is here for them 24/7.”

Something different is happening in Wolverhampton

Meet Lee

Gary Richards

4

Becoming a Customer Ambassador for Midland Heart opens many doors of opportunity.As well as getting out and about and meeting new people, you can become involved with how Midland Heart operates… and make a real difference.Customer Ambassadors are trained in confidence boosting for meeting and greeting, how to be a successful interviewer and being objective when carrying out service inspections. Midland Heart currently has many Customer Ambassadors and we spoke to two of them to find out why they love their roles.

Janine Griffiths, Learning Disabilities Domiciliary Care and Support Birmingham: “I became an Ambassador two years ago because I wanted to do more voluntary work to help people.I’ve been involved with customer forums which have dealt with feedback to improve Midland Heart services.Being an Ambassador means doing things out of

the ordinary such as teambuilding activities where you mix with different types of people.If anyone is thinking about becoming a Customer Ambassador I’d say to go for it. It gets you out in the community and you make lots of friends and grow in confidence.”

Gurminder Degan, customer, The Snow Hill:“I became an Ambassador in February after a few members of staff suggested I put myself forward. I knew that I would benefit from getting involved and through my own experience I knew it was important to encourage others to talk and not isolate themselves. “I hope I have helped others through my role as an Ambassador, helping them to talk more openly

and to open their eyes to the hidden talents and skills that often they didn’t recognise in themselves.”

The coming year is set to be a productive one for the Mental Health Service’s Uplands allotment in Handsworth.The large plot, which was looking overgrown and neglected, saw lots of action during the autumn.A team of 15 volunteers from Kraft spent a cold and wet day clearing weeds and laying a new patio area.And its future looks even rosier thanks to a community interest company, Spring to Life, which is now overseeing the development and use of the plot.The organisation, which offers a range of therapeutic services in the community, will work with customers and staff from across Midland Heart’s

opportunity

Ambassadors make a difference

New life springs forth on allotment

5

mental health services on the allotment.Claire Street, support worker at Bushbury Lane, has run the allotment with Semiu Apanishile a support worker at Lancaster Street.Claire said: “The plot was looking very tired and shabby so we were very grateful for the help from Kraft staff.“The team, with the help of one of our customers, Jason Fox, worked really hard and it looks much tidier now.”

green fingers

New life springs forth on allotment

Spring to Life Spring to Life is looking for customers from across Midland Heart’s mental health services to come along and join in the fun at the allotment and feel the benefit of ‘being active out of doors’.The organisation, which offers a range of therapeutic services to promote emotional well-being, firmly believes that getting out in the open air is good for the soul.Whether you’re a keen gardener, want to learn more, or just want to spend some time outside, in a natural environment you’ll be very welcome.Spring to Life runs several community gardening projects across Birmingham. Philippa Allenby, a therapeutic counsellor with the company, said: “We’re really pleased to be involved with Midland

Heart and hope to do lots of positive work with it’s mental health service customers.“We have already made a good start on the allotment, working with six customers who soldiered on for a few hours despite the cold.“Over the coming months we hope to involve many more people from across Midland Heart. This will promote integration and help the allotment to become self-sustaining.”The team is also launching a Reading for Well-Being programme. Philippa explained: “We read a story with a group of customers and then discuss the characters, themes and relate our own stories too. “These sessions often encourage people to think and talk about things that have happened in their own life.”

If you would like to get involved with one of Spring to Life’s projects, speak to your support worker or service manager. You can read more about the organisation at: www.springtolife.org

6

Customers speak out to praise supportPublic speaking can be a nerve-wracking experience for many, but three Mental Health services customers overcame their fears to speak about the first class support they had received from Midland Heart.Patricia Pugh, Check Miller and Mr H, who prefers to remain anonymous, addressed guests at a special event to publicise the organisation’s work in Wolverhampton.The Mental Health Services showcase, held at St Matthew’s Place, was attended by a range of local agencies including Supporting People, Healthy Minds, the Wolverhampton Mental Health Empowerment Team and the Community Mental Health Team. Customers from Hincks Street, Bushbury Lane, Brookview and Victoria Court also enjoyed the day.Kim Brueton, Acting Team Leader at Hincks Street, who organised the event, said: “It was very worthwhile and gave everyone the chance to network and learn more about Midland Heart’s work here in Wolverhampton. We were delighted it was such a success.“The three customers who spoke were so articulate and appeared so confident. They did so well.”

speak out

My experience of Midland Heart“When I came to Midland Heart I was a jibbering wreck with no self-confidence or self-belief and numerous health conditions which exacerbated my anxiety and depression. I was becoming a recluse within my own four walls.“Over the last few years Midland Heart has provided me with emotional support, daily living skills and has assisted me in feeling more part of the local community. Today I am in a much better position. I still have my down days but I try to remember that each new day is a new beginning.”Patricia Pugh, a former Floating Support customer who has experienced some personal issues.

“I have become more independent and am working towards achieving other skills, such as cooking.“The staff are really helpful, good to talk to and are here to listen if I have any concerns. I rate Midland Heart 100 per cent.”Mr H, customer, Wolverhampton

7

New service celebrates Best of Black CountryCustomers from a brand new £17 million West Bromwich service joined together with the local community to enjoy a free event themed the ‘Best of the Black Country’. Guests were treated to traditional Black Country food, hand waxing, frosting cupcakes and a performance from The Choir with No Name.The new Bagnall Street service, a former industrial site, has been transformed into 106 affordable new homes.The estate also includes the James Bagnall Foyer which provides supported accommodation for 34 young homeless people.Toni Watton Projects Leader for Midland Heart said: “The event was fantastic, it brought lots of different people together and provided everyone with an opportunity to find out about other Midland Heart services and have some fun.“Guests had a great time learning how to ice cupcakes with our social enterprise Frost and Snow Bakery, and our Black Country fish and chips lunch went down a storm.”

new service

“My stay at Victoria Court has put me on the right track for the future so I will eventually be able to have my own flat.“I see staff on a daily basis and I know they are always there when I need them and see my community psychiatric nurse every week, so my mental health is well looked after.“Staff have supported me to improve my living skills and I feel more confident about food shopping, cooking and cleaning.“I never had a holiday in my life before but since coming here I have been to Blackpool twice and a day trip to Weston Super Mare, which was quite exciting.”Customer Check Miller who moved into Victoria Court in August 2011

8

If you are an alcoholic, the road to recovery is a long one and for some the battle never ends.After 20 years of heavy drinking, Jac Macnama, better known to everyone as Ammo, never imagined he would manage even one day without a drink.But he recently celebrated 19 months without touching alcohol and now has a future to look forward to.For a man who used to drink 10 – 15 cans of strong lager a day – plus a generous amount of whisky – his transformation since moving to Hincks Street in 2008 is incredible.Ammo was first supported by the Hincks Street Mental Health Outreach Service in September 2007.He had been banned from many local pubs and shops due to his verbal and physical aggression and his family refused to visit him because of his addiction and behaviour.His flat was a mess; he neglected his personal hygiene, didn’t eat regular meals and was in debt. “I did not care about anything apart from getting drunk,” he later said.Gary Underwood was the first Outreach Worker from Midland Heart to work with Ammo and initially struggled to engage with his new customer.“After a while we forged a good working relationship,” Gary explained, “but Ammo was still struggling with his alcohol addiction, which

was having a negative effect on his mental health.His Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) decided he could not sustain a general needs property and in 2008 Ammo moved to Hincks Street.Gary said: “Ammo still continued to consume excessive amounts of alcohol and refused support.“He was verbally aggressive to other customers and staff

at Hincks Street, neglected his medication and at times police/emergency services had to be called.”When his tenancy was under threat

Ammo agreed to be referred to the Woodbourne Priory Hospital in Edgbaston which specialises in mental health and addictions and in May 2011 he was admitted for a six-night detox stay.“I was feeling paranoid as I was in an unfamiliar place and I did not know the staff,” he revealed, “but I realised that I needed to complete the detox.”Ammo then attended two group counselling sessions each week at Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) in Wolverhampton and in May this

road to recovery

My name is Ammo. I’m a recovering alcoholic

“Without the support

from staff at Hincks Street I would never have stopped

drinking alcohol.”

9

Judith wins place on national leadership courseMidland Heart’s Judith Cross has been offered a coveted place on the 2013 Clore Social Leadership Programme.Judith, currently the Implementation Lead for the new Care and Support ICT system, is known to many customers through her former role as Operations Manager for homeless and youth services across Birmingham and the Midlands.The Clore Social Leadership Programme identifies, connects and develops aspiring leaders in the social sector and has attracted funding from a wide range of Foundations and Trusts, building on the continued core investment by the Clore Duffield Foundation. Judith has secured a specialist fellowship on housing and homelessness funded through the Oak Foundation.Judith begins her fellowship in January on a part-time basis joining 17 other new Fellows on the unique, personalised leadership development programme.Judith said: “My role currently is quite internally focussed so I am keen to establish new external networks and to build up my knowledge of the wider sector.“I think homeless people can be perceived to be a drain on society and a waste of resources.“I’d like to change those perceptions so people see that everyone has something to offer the community.”

who’s whoyear he completed 12 months of not drinking any alcohol - and still continues to abstain.Ammo said: “Without the support from staff at Hincks Street I would never have stopped drinking alcohol.“My family now visit me and I go and stay with them. I feel that my life has been turned around. “Moving to Hincks Street was the best move I have made. I really like it here and get on well with the staff.”Gary added: “The staff here at Hincks Street are all really proud of Ammo and his achievement.”

10

An oasis of calmThe garden at Stafford’s Eagle House has been transformed to stimulate the senses thanks to support from the local community.Customers at the service are now enjoying the sights, sounds and smells

of the new sensory garden, which includes fragrant herbs and plants, lights and wind chimes.The £1,700 project was funded by a £1,000 Staffordshire Local Community Fund donation from Councillor Ivan Jennings, a £100 contribution from the near-by Tower Residents group and money raised by pupils from The Blessed William Howard Catholic High School through a sponsored walk. Wendy Whitehouse, manager of Eagle

House, said: “The finished garden is a colourful, tranquil place for our customers to relax in and we are very grateful to everyone who helped to make it possible.”

Blackheath gets creativeThe walls at The High Street project are looking brighter thanks to an art project run by Venture volunteer Rafia Salik.Rafia worked with all customers at the service in Blackheath to design and create a fabulous art mural for the scheme.

news round-up

Chris departing for pastures newChris Munday, Managing Director of Care & Support, will be leaving Midland Heart in February to take up a new role as Managing Director of Sanctuary Housing Group’s Supported Living business.He joined Prime Focus, which merged with Keynote to form Midland Heart, in April 2003.Chief Executive Officer Ruth Cooke said: “We will all miss Chris enormously, both for the passion and drive he has brought to leading our Care & Support business but also for the wider contribution he has made to Midland Heart. “As we begin the search for a new Care & Support Director, I know you’ll join me in wishing Chris all the best in his new role and in thanking him for everything he has done for Midland Heart and our customers over the years.”

Christmas fun for the youngsters at Shoemaker Court, Rushden

11

Two Rolfe House Foyer customers sat back and relaxed as they enjoyed a very girly evening.Canan Kargi and Natalie McNamara were treated to face masks and a make-over to put them in the mood for the Christmas party season.The activity organised by homeless support worker Cynthia Samuels, was open to all at

the Smethwick service, but Cynthia laughed: “Unfortunately the boys were a little shy and didn’t want to try a face mask.”She added: “It was a good evening and we’d like to hold another, perhaps doing nail care next time.”

Cooking up a cultural feastHelen Dixon House celebrated Black History Month with a cookery lesson.Customers and staff at the Moseley service tried their hands at tasty dishes including sticky ribs in barbeque sauce, jerk chicken and peas and rice with fresh tropical fruit.“We all enjoyed learning how to make the dishes,” said Inclusion Services Manager Portland Jones. “It was all washed down with our own punch… non-alcoholic of course!”

Getting into the Movember spirit: staff and customers in Herefordshire carefully tend moustaches to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health.

All change on the busesCustomer Tony Jones from Trinity Close, Handsworth, has highlighted that changes are planned on several bus routes in the West Midlands.See if the routes you use are affected by picking up a new timetable from your local Centro or Network West Midlands office.www.centro.org.ukwww.networkwestmidlands.com

news round-up news round-up

Beauty treat for Canan

Beauty night in

12

Dear Fay,

What advice can you give about broken family relationships, particularly where the behaviour and actions of a previously close family have been part of the cause of my depression and financial breakdown.Should I try to build bridges or not? Making the effort to try and rebuild relationships may be good for me but I’m worried that if things don’t work out, I could be left feeling even worse.

Thanks for your question.

Trying to build bridges with your family is a good idea and I think your starting point would be to take steps to deal with your depression and financial issues. Once you have all your problems sorted and know in your own mind that things are OK, you can then approach your family and show them that now you are back on track, and ready to try and resolve the issues with them.

It’s always harder when the breakdown is with family so prepare yourself for the meeting.I suggest writing down what you want to get out of the meeting and think about what you need from your family to improve the relationship.Sometimes the best thing for you to do is listen to the family members first; let them get all their frustrations and points across, then calmly express your point of view.Try to choose a neutral place to meet up, so if it all becomes too much it is easier for you to leave and continue the conversation at another time. That way you have some control.It can be a long road to rebuild family relationships, but with the right support and guidance, it can be achievable. Just take it one step at a time.I hope this has given you some idea of what to do, I hope everything works out for you.Best wishesFay

Dear Fay

A problem shared...

If you have a problem you need help solving, write in to our very own agony aunt, Fay. The topic can be about anything you like, including relationships.If your letter is suitable for publishing, she will respond in her own inimitable style.Send your letter to: Fay, Future Voice magazine, Midland Heart, 44 Bradford Street, Digbeth, Birmingham. B5 6HX.Alternatively you can email her at: Editor.future.voice@midlandheart.org.uk Your letter/email will be treated in the strictest confidence but please include your name. All letters will be published anonymously.

Our agony aunt Fay has managed to pack a lot in to her life including 18 months as a customer at the Midland Heart Foyer.

She seized the opportunity to become an apprentice and after working across two services, she was offered a full-time position as support worker at the Midland Heart Foyer.

agony aunt

Q

A

13

2013...

Celebrating 2012 and looking forward to the coming year…

Inclusion services has enjoyed an exciting and successful year.Some of the highlights for us were:• TheopeningoftherefurbishedTheSnow

Hill in Birmingham city centre• ThelaunchofthenewOasisHouse,

‘aspirational’ accommodation for the homeless

• TwoverysuccessfulCalvertTrustadventures

• FrostandSnowopeneditsnewcaféatThe Snow Hill, increased its range of cakes and fulfilled an order to supply the Olympic Games

• ThelaunchoftheIdeasFactory–anewprogramme to prompt staff to send in their ideas on how we can improve what we do. We received 119 ideas in the first few weeks!

• ThestartofanewprojectwiththeYoungFoundation, a social research organisation with whom we are developing a health service offer.

• ThelaunchofBackonTrack,aprogrammedeveloped in Birmingham to support young people as a response to the August 2011 disturbances.

• BeingjudgedashavingAratedservicesbyBirmingham and Staffordshire supporting people programmes

The future – 2013The coming year promises to be another exciting but challenging 12 months for Inclusion services.• TheGovernmentismakingmajorchanges

to the welfare system with almost all benefits being affected. Our staff will be engaging with customers to help them maximise their income.

• Wewillcontinuetodrivenewroughsleeperservices across the Midlands, including Sandwell, Dudley and into Warwickshire.

• WehopetobeworkingwithCare4Care,arevolutionary new programme helping us to care for our ageing population now, and to ensure that they will be cared for in the future.

• Wehopetodevelopourrelationshipwiththe Calvert Trust to create a model which other organisations can use.

• Wewillcontinuetooffervalueformoneyto our customers whilst not compromising on quality

• Wewillcontinuetodevelopnewandexciting services

Inclusion Servicesby Raj Shroff, Head of Inclusion Transformation and Agencies

continued overleaf

14

online service

Maurice’s watercolour impresses judgesTalented painter Maurice Hill has scooped first prize in the Midland HeART 2012 competition. Maurice, from the Broad Meadow older persons scheme, entered a water colour depicting a country cottage.The winning entry was selected by entrants of the competition and Maurice will have the choice of £50 Magic Moments vouchers or £50 worth of art materials.

2012 has been an excellent year for learning disability and mental health services and I believe 2013 will be even better!Key dates for LD and MH services were:• April-thenewdepartmentofLearning

Disability and Mental Health was established, recognising the importance of these services.

• May-Thecompletionofthereconfiguration of our Coventry Learning Disability Services, including the opening of a new six- bed care home, Lee Gordon House.

• July-EmmaMainjoinedusasOperationalManager for Learning Disability Services.

• July-welaunchedthenewComplexNeedsService in Wolverhampton.

• August-BrookviewCareHomeinCoventrytransferred to us from a small charity.

• September-wewonacontracttodeliverSkills for Daily Living in Hereford.

The future - 2013I have a number of aspirations and plans for 2013 and these include:• Tocontinuetogrowservicestoenableus

to support more customers to achieve their aspirations

• Tocontinuetoimprovetheservicesby thinking differently and listening to customers to understand what they want and how they want it delivered.

• Tomakesureourstaffhavetherightskillsand experiences to support customers.

• Tocontinuetohelpcustomersthroughthese difficult financial times by helping them use their money to best effect.

• Finally,tocontinuetoenjoymyjobasmuch as I have during 2012 and to find more opportunities to get out of my office and meet as many staff and customers as possible.

Learning Disability and Mental Health Services By Lydia Bailey, Head of Learning Disability and Mental Health

continued from previous page

15

Customers with learning disabilities are benefitting from the new online service which is helping customers across Care and Support to manage their support networks.The Tyze personal network system enables the individual, family, friends and care professionals to work together more efficiently.Already several customers in Herefordshire’s learning disabilities services have benefitted from the system and Robbie Hedley, Hereford Care Manager, said links between customers and their family have been strengthened through Tyze.“Now that staff are up to speed on the system it means we can log the customer’s daily activities and

upload photographs very easily,” he said.

“With one customer, Patrick, we were only in contact with one member of his family. Since he has had a Tyze network, a lot of his family have got involved.”

Robbie added: “Staff have been sitting with customers to update their network and even if the customer doesn’t have the ability to use a computer themselves, they are enjoying being part of the process.“As well as being a great way to show their family’s what they have been doing, it also provides evidence of the activities they have been involved with.

Picture of Robbie Hedley taken by customer John Heyward

Tyze working well in Herefordshire

(continued overleaf)

online service

Support worker Kelly works with customer John Heyward

16

Two key areas at St Eugene’s have been transformed thanks to the efforts of a group of staff from Midland Heart’s head office.The Company Secretary and Procurement Team closed down their computers to spend their annual Away Day renovating the atrium and customer lounge at the Digbeth scheme.They painted walls, stencilled areas and set up libraries of CDs and DVDs for music and film nights with the many donations from colleagues and partners.While they worked furiously to get the job done, customers from St Eugene’s and nearby services were treated to well-being sessions with health checks provided by The Health Exchange, hand waxing plus Zumba and Tai-chi sessions.The ‘Spring to Life’ project, which promotes mental well-being through planting and other therapies, joined in the fun and planted a range of edible plants, herbs and flowers in the raised beds around the Atrium.Jayne Lombardi, Insurance Manager in the Company Secretary Team, was a key organiser of the Away Day.

“Tyze is simple to use and I have found it useful because we can upload photographs of John to show his family what activity he has been doing that day. His parents visit once a week so they are now able to get a better idea of his life here.“Another customer, Martin, isn’t able to use Tyze either, but he loves watching me posting photographs of himself.”Kelly Shaw, domiciliary care support worker, Southbank Close

“I think Tyze is very interesting and I am enjoying using it. I only got my network last week and I have two members of staff on it as well as my Dad.“I like to use it to send messages and I like being able to use it for myself. One of the staff put up a picture of me dressed up for Hallowe’en which I really like.”Tracey Jones, customer, Ivy Close

(continued from page 15)

what’s in a day...

Giving something back… head office team transform St Eugene’s

17

She said: “We always try to be set a challenge by Care and Support to give something back and work with our customers for our annual away day.“This year we were offered a number of options however, through Geoff Lowe’s persistence, we agreed to take on the request of St Eugene’s Court for help.“After weeks of preparation in order to deliver such a massive transformation everyone including the customers were overwhelmed with the results. We left the customers playing with their new chess board.

“It was particularly satisfying to know that the customers now have a space that they can all enjoy which will only serve to increase customer involvement at the scheme.” Jayne Lombardi

A big thank you to the following

contractors who helped make it

all possible…

John O’ Conner (Grounds

Maintenance) Limited

Pinnacle Housing limited

Marc Burgess from Barclaycard

Business

L Daniels

CLC Group

head office team transform St Eugene’s

18

Foyers come together to beat bullyingThe message that good communication is one of the key ways to beat bullying has been embraced by two Midland Heart Foyers.Rolfe Street in Smethwick and James Bagnall Foyer in West Bromwich got together during the nationwide Anti-Bullying Week in November.The activities, which ran from Tuesday – Friday, began with a buffet and the showing of the award-winning film, Precious, about an 16-year-old pregnant girl who is abused by both parents.There was a visit from the Murray Hall Community Trust to talk to customers and staff about the holistic support they offer to young people and answer questions.The activities ended with a bullying awareness group work session which included

team work exercises and challenges.Dean Simms, support worker at Rolfe House Foyer, who organised the events, told Future Voice: “The events opened customers’ eyes to things they should look out for and how they could help someone who is being bullied, either physically or mentally.”

beat bullying

Oh we do like to be beside the seaside

Dean Simms and Toni Watton

19

Story of slavery brought to life for young customers

There were smiles all round as customers on the Rough Sleepers Personalisation Project headed for a day by the sea.The group of five, accompanied by four staff, travelled to Weston-Super-Mare to enjoy a taste of old fashioned British seaside fun.The customers chose how they wanted to spend their time and packed as much in as possible.A walk along the pier, rides on the dodgems, ghost train, go-karts and fish & chips, made it a day to remember.Sara Hussey, Rough Sleeper Personalisation Officer, said: “It was a really successful trip and everyone bonded

well. One customer brought his brother along so it was nice for them to get out and do something as a family.“For the customers it was lovely to spend so much time laughing with the staff and for them to get away from the issues they have back home.”

Young people from two Midland Heart services were captivated by the sights and sounds of the International Slavery Museum.The group of eight customers from Rolfe House Foyer and Bagnall Street, accompanied by Cynthia Samuels, William Hughes and Daynia Archer, visited the Liverpool centre in November to take a closer look at the history of the slave trade.They heard about the story of Africa and its people, the brutality suffered by enslaved Africans on the voyage across the Atlantic and the oppression of their lives on plantations in

the Americas.Cynthia Samuels, homeless support worker at Rolfe House Foyer, said: “It was a very interesting day. Everyone enjoyed themselves and we all leant a lot.”Customer Paul Wellings said: “I had a great time and learnt a lot about slavery that I had not known before. It was rather intriguing.”Anthony Barry, from James Bagnall Foyer added: “The slave museum was really good and I’m glad that I had the opportunity to experience it.”

out and about

Oh we do like to be beside the seaside

What the customers said:

“It was a nice change of

scenery and the best part of

the day was the go-karting.”

“It was completely different to how I normally spend my days, and it was nice to get away. I had a great time.”

Dean Simms and Toni Watton

20

Stepping into the shoes of a Big Issue SellerAmanda Nicklin took to the streets of Birmingham as a Big Issue seller to find out what life is like for the magazine vendors.Amanda, manager of Midland Heart’s Homeless Services Centre in Digbeth, donned the red tabard and attempted to sell her stack of magazines in the city centre.The experience was a humbling one and in her one-hour slot she didn’t sell a single copy, although she was given several small donations.“Some people were friendly but the number of negative reactions I got was quite appalling,” Amanda said.Her day started with an induction where she learned about the code of conduct and was badged up as an official seller. Amanda was also introduced to Olly, who had kindly agreed to give up his pitch for the hour.Amanda said: “I was worried that my clothing wasn’t suitable as I was wearing a smart work jacket, but I was told that once I had the familiar red tabard on, no-one would notice anything else.“And they were absolutely right. That was all most people seemed to see and I was shocked at people’s reactions. It was a very humbling

experience to be pre-judged.”But she said that not all reactions were negative ones. “Some people were friendly and while I didn’t manage to sell any copies, I was given a few small donations. The arrangement

was that I gave all money received to Olly.”The Big Issue sellers operate on a self-employed basis, buying the magazines for £1.25 and selling them for £2.50 on a sale or no return basis. All sales are receipted and they use their profits to buy more copies to sell.

Sellers receive plenty of back-up support from the organisation which signposts them to organisations who can offer a variety of support. They are also encouraged to save.Amanda said: “I took over my position at the Homeless Services Centre in June and I am very keen to learn more about the lives of some of our customers.“Putting myself in the shoes of a Big Issue seller was a very enlightening experience and I learned a lot from it. I also hope I have raised the profile of the Big Issue too.”

“Some people were friendly

but the number of negative reactions I

got was quite appalling,”

Amanda said.

experience

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Customers have added their voices to growing praise for OSKA, the new database system which is giving support staff more time for interaction.The OSKA Project is transforming the way Midland Heart’s Care and Support division operates since its trial began in July.The system, which acts as a database for all Care and Support customer data, saves staff hundreds of hours at the computer.Its digital pen technology enables front line support staff to capture data with customers face to face.Staff are delighted with the system which means less paperwork plus improved accuracy and security of customer data and now customers are seeing the benefits for themselves.At a recent Excellence Panel meeting customers discussed the advantages of the introduction of OSKA technology for both customers and staff.They said they thought the benefits of OSKA were:• Moreface-to-face

interaction and a more personal approach

• Lesspaperworkmeansstaff spend more time supporting customers

• Timeforabetterrapportto be built between staff and customers.

• Itgivescustomersmoretime to speak to staff about any problems or support issues they may have.

• Itgivesstaffmoretimeto promote involvement activities

• Itpromotesbettercommunication and more time for understanding

• Increasesrespectandcompassion levels

Customer Involvement’s Su Moss who helped deliver the Care & Support Excellence Panel meeting with Jared Kitchingman (OSKA project Officer) said: “Overall, customers felt the technology is a really good step forward for Midland Heart and it will enhance the overall support service provided. “Customers also commented that this sort of technology places Midland Heart in a unique position compared to competitors.”

growing OSKA

Customers see the benefits of OSKA

What staff say:“It’s such a useful tool to have so much information at the tips of your fingers. Not having to constantly search for and through files to track down contact details or find relevant information allows us to focus our time more effectively on directly supporting our customers”.Jon Bassett

“Staff are loving the new system. Not one piece of paper has gone in the customer files for a couple of weeks.”Jo Smith

“OSKA enables staff to spend more support time with customers other than filling out lots of paperwork which is great for staff and customers.”Gwyn Wright

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It was an unforgettable week of adventure and the lucky customers from across Midland Heart services returned home with a new sense of purpose.The five-day outward bound holiday in Devon saw everyone triumph after facing new challenges and making new friends of all ages.The group of 60 customers and staff from across the Care and Support Services – Older People, Youth, Homelessness, Mental Health and Learning Disabilities – enjoyed a wide range of experiences at the Calvert Trust centre on Exmoor, ranging from horse riding to rock climbing.

Calvert Trust

The difference a week makes...

“In March this year I went to Calvert as a customer. This time I went as a volunteer.“I wasn’t worried because it was something I wanted to do and I knew what to expect.“A lot of the customers asked me about my experience as a customer, and I was able to help them.

“It was really good to feel useful and I really enjoyed myself. I’d be very happy to volunteer again. It gave me a real confidence boost.”Janine Griffiths, Floating Support customer, Learning Disability Services

“I had a brilliant time and I didn’t want to come back. Everyone got on so well and the atmosphere was great. I’d love to go again.”Linley Maynard, Trinity Court Care and Support customer

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Thank you to customers: Simon Richards from Flint Green, Alex Wheatley from Lichfield Road, Helen Bicker from High St South, Danielle Simpson from High St South and Nooshin (Jasmine) Khalaji from The Birmingham Foyer who all contributed photography to this article

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Three Midland Heart staff added their support to a nationwide event to highlight the plight of Britain’s homeless.Paulina Korgol, Acting Operations Manager, Colin Parry, Team Leader for the Rough Sleeper’s Team and Shane Smith, Rough Sleepers’ Personalisation Officer were invited to get involved in the Big Sleep Out on 17 November.They took part in workshops and answered questions from many of the 200 young people who were bedding down in Birmingham’s Floodgate Street to get first-hand experience of sleeping rough.The event was organised by The Challenge Society, a scheme that inspires young people to make a difference in their community.As well as raising awareness of the problems homeless people face, the annual event is used to collect food, clothing and donations for distribution to homeless charities across the city.Shane Smith explained: “The Midland Heart team divided up to speak to different groups. We talked about the difficulty of climbing out of a rough sleeping lifestyle, and the wide

range of services Midland Heart offers to all communities including opportunities such as volunteering.”“We explained about the work the rough sleepers team does, the rough sleeper personalisation project and the results the intensive support and individual budgets are achieving.”Shane added: “For me, the night was brilliant, especially because it showed that young people are interested in helping vulnerable people and are aware of the many reasons

behind rough sleeping.“It was great to see so many young people giving up their time to sleep out for the night and experiencing what our customers experience on a daily basis.”Acting Operations Manager Paulina Korgol said: “I really

appreciated that both Colin and Shane were so enthusiastic about the event and delivered great sessions for young people during the Saturday night. They really showed their passion for supporting rough sleepers and acting as advocates on their behalf.”

“For me, the night was brilliant, especially because it showed that young people are interested in helping vulnerable people and are aware of the many reasons behind rough sleeping.”

Big Sleep Out

Staff support drive to highlight homelessness

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Bond secures private accommodationA small team is making big strides helping customers move into private rented accommodation.The Accommodation Access Service, based at the Homeless Services Centre in Bradford Street, supports people in housing need and on a low-income to access properties within the private rented sector. The first major barrier is that customers cannot afford a deposit - which is where the team steps in to help.Instead of paying a cash deposit to a landlord, the service can provide a “bond” guarantee.Ryan Patterson, Floating Support Worker with

the Accommodation Access Service said: “A bond is not a transfer of cash. It is a written guarantee from the council on your behalf, which enables your landlord to make a claim on the bond from Birmingham City Council if there is loss or damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.” The bond guarantee is valid for a maximum of 12 months and the service encourages the customer to use that time to save towards the renewal of their bond.Ryan added: “This scheme works well in supporting a customer’s independence and helping them to have access to their own deposit at the end of their tenancy.”

Two Birmingham customers got the help they needed to move forward with their lives on a special programme provided by the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust.

Scott Steggles and Nooshin Fazeli Nahr Khalaji from The Foyer were picked to attend a Get on Track course which supported them to make positive changes in their lives and develop a

range of work-ready skills.Scott said: “I was tentative about going but that soon changed. I learnt to take control of group discussions and to speak in front of a large audience.”Nooshin added: “I had a good time on the course and it helped me get experience for when I apply for jobs.“We painted the Ladywood community centre and did gardening, basketball, boxing and football. It was really cool.”

Scott and Nooshin get on track with Dame Kelly Holmes

on track

The best talent in B4It was a glittering night to remember. The first ever B4’s Got Talent event drew a cheering audience when it showcased at The Snow Hill.Talented customers from the service and The Midland Heart Foyer (both in the B4 postcode) entertained a lively crowd and made the judging a tough task.Compere Geoff Lowe, support worker from nearby St Eugene’s, ensured the show went without a hitch.The evening was organised by Duane Derry, support worker at The Snow Hill and David Kinnair, Inclusion Services Manager.Duane said: “The whole event went better than we could have imagined. All the acts gave their best and blew the crowd away with how good they were. It just goes to show that B4 really has got talent.“I would just like to thank everyone who took part on stage and behind the scenes. We are looking forward to hosting a similar event next year; I might even enter myself!”

The Judges:Chris Munday, Managing Director Care and Support Paulina Korgol, Acting Operations ManagerRachel Harding, St John’s AmbulanceScott Steggles, customer, The FoyerNoonash Fazeli Nahr Khalaji, customer, The FoyerPaul Tustin, customer, Snow Hill

The ActsVictoria Jordon - poetry readingShianne Smith-Corbett and Nathaniel Jones - singing and acoustic guitarPeter Macko – hip hop dancing Ben Shinwell - poetry readingIan Muson and Marcia Sparkes - Spanish guitar and singingSimon Adams - singingIain Edwards - singing

The WinnerNathaniel Stewart - singing and playing acoustic guitar

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talent

Photography by Snow Hill customer Jayesh Parmar

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Snap happy Renee’s one of our judgesTalented photographer Renee Hussey has joined the judging panel of the first ever Future Voice photography competition.Renee, from Rolfe House Foyer, first got interested in the subject when she was studying GCSE Art.She treated herself to a Canon 550 last year… and hasn’t looked back since.“I enjoy taking pictures of a whole range of subjects,” Renee explained, “but particularly of my friends and fashions.“I’m happy working in colour or black and white, but I’m not so keen on special effects. I prefer a more natural look.“I love exploring what you can do with a camera. I find it fascinating.”But Renee said while she loves photography, it will always be just a hobby for her as she’s hoping to work in the area of fashion buying, and will soon take up a place on a business management course.

Top tips for taking first class photos

• Takeafewsecondstothinkaboutthe

composition – the image should tell a story

• Takethepictureinashigharesolutionaspossible.

• Ifyou’rephotographingaperson,takeafullbody

shot or a head and shoulders shot. In between

shots (for instance, from the knees upwards) don’t

tend to work.

• Makesureyoucanseepeople’sfaces–it’sbetter

to take shot of three people close up rather than a

group shot from a distance.

• Holdthecamerastillandletitfocus.

• Thinkaboutthelighting–especiallyindoors

We know many of you are keen photographers so we thought a Future Voice photography competition would encourage our readers to show off their talents.Images must be taken by you in the last six months or before the closing date of Friday 17 May 2013.You can enter ONE IMAGE in each of the following categories

1. All about me2. In the communityThe entries will be judged by a panel of Future Voice readers and the results published in the Summer 2013 edition.To enter:You can email your entries to Editor.future.voice@ midlandheart.org.uk

Picture perfectEnter our first ever photography competition

competitionTalented photographer Renee Hussey

resolutions

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January 1 heralds the start of a new year and a fresh start.This issue our roving reporters asked customers what their New Year’s Resolution is and if they usually stick to them.This is what they said…

“This year I am going to lead a more healthy diet. Do I stick to them? I want to, I need to; I am going to try to!”Jason Fox, Holliday Road, Handsworth

“I don’t often make New Year’s resolutions but this year I’m going to try to see more of my kids and meet more people in a similar situation to me.”

David McCarthy, Midland Heart Mental Health Floating Support customer

“This year I want to get my own private rented property and to stay in work. I don’t usually stick to my New Year’s resolutions but I will this time.”James Jelf, Rolfe House Foyer

“My New Year’s resolution this year includes everyone here. I am going to try my hardest to win the national lottery and share it with all the other

customers. I always try my best to keep any resolutions or promises I make.”Jim McGrory, Holliday Road, Handsworth

“My New Year’s Resolution is to lose weight.”Munasar Ahmed, Flint Green House, Acocks Green

“My resolution for this year is to finally move into my own property and have it become a success. Do I usually stick to them? Yes I do.”David Deadman, Holliday Road, Handsworth

“This year I am going to cut down on the substances that affect me. I cannot carry on like this. I tend to keep my resolutions.”Witold Nawojczyk, Holliday Road, Handsworth

“My resolution is to save up my money, although I don’t usually stick to my resolutions.”Kiran Kaur, Rolfe House Foyer

“I would like to continue to go rock climbing as I discovered how enjoyable it can be whilst at Calvert in November. I would also like to start an FA training course in the New Year.”Jayesh Parmar, Snow Hill

Bushbury Lane customers said:“I want to stop smoking, and if I really want to, I know I can do it.” RM“I would like to remain debt free and be happy.” SD

Viewpoint

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Intrepid customer Marcia Sparkes learned more about the ghoulish goings on in Moseley during a ghost walk around the old village.Marcia, from Helen Dixon House, joined an organised group led by a practising medium as it took to the streets of Moseley to hear historic tales of death, illness, murder and dastardly deeds.Marcia said: “We heard about a black page boy spirit in the Prince of Wales who used to be servant to the Landlady. Apparently people have sensed his presence and say he’s happy to be there. “There’s a ghost called Clare in the upstairs attic of O’Neill’s pub who’s been seen in a red Edwardian dress. The woman is said to have accidentally killed a punter when a grapple went wrong and he fell out of the window.

“Another tale we heard was one about the Calvary Church of God in Christ on Ascot Road. Apparently, the ghost of a Victorian priest, who was killed with a blow to the back by a sharp

object, can be sensed at the foot of the church.”Marcia added: “Afterwards I tried to research the accuracy of the stories from the ghost walk but couldn’t verify anything.“But, despite that and despite not believing in ghosts, I went to bed

strangely ‘comforted’ knowing more about my ghostly neighbours.“The walk brought alive the Moseley Village of the Victorian past and left me with a clear mental picture.”

Marcia’s evening of spooky fun

ghost walk

Pre-ordered tickets for the Moseley ghost walk cost £10. For more info go to:http://www.eclipsepromotions.org/moseley-ghost-walks.html

get involved

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FUTURE VOICE magazineFuture Voice is a quarterly magazine for customers of Midland Heart supported housing – Inclusion – Homeless & Youth services, Mental Health services and Learning Disability services.Each issue features a wide range of stories that are relevant to our customers and are aimed at helping them move forward to a brighter future.To make sure Future Voice is bursting with things you want to read about we need to hear your news and ideas.Contact us at: Editor.future.voice@midlandheart.org.uk or write to: Su Moss, Future Voice magazine, Midland Heart, 44 Bradford Street, Digbeth, Birmingham. B5 6HX.

Fancy joining the Editorial Board – everyone’s welcomeOur Editorial Board is an ever-changing mix of customers and staff who make sure Future Voice is all about our customers and the issues that you want to read about. We enjoyed a lively meeting at Helen Dixon House in November and met customers who had travelled from nearby services.The editorial meetings are friendly and informal and you can get involved as much or as little as you want. If you’d like to come along and see for yourself what it’s all about, speak to your service manager or support worker. Alternatively you can email us at Editor.future.voice@ midlandheart.org.uk

Express yourselfThe submission this time comes from Arthur Starkey, a customer living at the Midland Heart Foyer in Birmingham.If you would like to submit a poem or have pictures of your artwork included, please contact us at the usual address or email: Future.Voice@midlandheart.org.uk

Looking out from your ivory towerdo you know how the ‘other’ people live?Your perspective is narrowYou failed to see that your life could change in an instantThat your wife would leave because you got made redundantThat you lost your house because you couldn’t keep up with the repaymentsThat you would be living on the streets under an archwayAll your life you think you had it madeYou looked down on othersYou took life for grantedNow you have to suffer the fate of the people you spat uponYou look back on your lifeAll the people you denied human compassionNow you expect itBut will you be given it?When there are people like you in the world

By Arthur Starkey

2013 publication dates: April, July, October

For many people January and February are the gloomiest months of the year, so we’ve racked our brains to come up with some of the best things of the winter months.There’s a £50 voucher of your choice up for grabs for the first entry out of the bag. Make sure you send in your entry to be in the running... it’ll give you a brighter start to 2013!Post your entry to: FREEPOST, RRAL-ZTXB-SJXT, Future Voice Word search, Midland Heart, Bath Row, Birmingham. B15 1LZ.

Please note the competition is only open to Midland Heart customers with only one entry per customer.Final deadline for entries is 22 March 2013

Bullying UK 0808 800 2222www.bullying.co.uk

National Bullying Helpline 0845 22 55 787nationalbullyinghelpline.co.uk

Young Minds 0808 802 5544www.youngminds.org.uk

Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 769 7555www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Depression Alliance - help & information about depression; depression and self help groups. www.depressionalliance.org/

The SamaritansDo you need someone to talk to? Tel: 0845 790 9090 (local rate)www.samaritans.org.uk Mind - a leading mental health charity.MindinfoLine Monday – Friday, 9.15am – 5.15pm Tel: 0845 766 0163www.mind.org.uk

SANE - provides practical help, emotional support and specialist information to individuals affected by mental health problems, their family, friends and carers.Helpline: 0845 767 8000 (6pm – 11pm)Support Forum: www.sane.org.uk/DB

NHS DirectHealth AdviceTel: 0845 4647 (local call)www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

SOVA - national volunteer mentoring organisation. Help and support for those who are socially and economically disadvantagedMidlands Office Tel : 0121 643 7400www.sova.org.uk

National DebtlineFree confidential and independent advice on how to deal with debt problems.Call 0808 808 4000 Monday to Friday 9am-9pm and Saturday 9.30am-1pm

First Point of Contact

SalesBargainsSnowHot chocolateSkating

FrostSnowmanSledgingLog firesNights in

L B T P J H O T C H O C O L A T E Q Q D M Q S H X F Y Z M W J A X O P W B G P P L J F X K H G E D I T X A F Z L U T G E F T F F X Z N R E I O L N C S I D I J F W O R F S U Y T X Y Q H W Z O E A J R S S N I A G R A B A J O J A C I H W R T I T M D U L W C E N A E R L I I S C K K I N Y H D V V T C F E W F T L H W E S N R V R H P T V A B O U T O L N D V Q P P T S O N B O G U W L B Q R W R J T S C T G W L G K W P F I K N N K V Q H Q S T P Q E Y P N I N B M T P I D G Z F Q A S X E I C Y T A D Y B I N A K S J A G C H H Z E U M X Z G M F R O S T S N G V N N S S Y A T R V J D Q A X S U N W A A A R D V L K V M M B I S W L R W G O Z T D K Y W B V E B Y T Y U V F K F I D C P W D R B S O U X Q Q U H U Y N D G V Z V U N C Y F A B P T W O N S M U O C G X O T D S H R G H L B D C T O Y J P T I B W Z Q L F L I W X P Z L F B F D W H S S A S S O Z A B Y U K P R M Z Q N R

Issue 21 winner...Congratulations to the winner of the word search competition in Issue 21. The winner, Vinod Karer of the Leicester Floating Support Service, will receive £50.00 in Asda vouchers. The winning entry was picked out of the hat by HSC (Homeless Service Centre) customer Anthony Faulkney.

Word Search

30 31

Name

Address

Telephone

High Street coupon of choice

Contact us: 0345 60 20 540

We are happy to make the contents available on tape, large print, braille or in a different language. We also subscribe to the Language Line interpretation service. If you need help communicating with us or understanding any of our documents, we can arrange for a Language Line interpreter or translator to help you. If any of these services would benefit you please contact us.

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Talk to FrankInformation and advice on drugs Tel: 0800 776 600 (freephone)www.talktofrank.com

Aquarius - Full range of help for people affected by alcohol and drug problems.

Northamptonshire - tel: 01604 632421 Birmingham North - tel: 0121 685 6340Birmingham South - tel: 0121 414 0888Sandwell - tel: 0121 525 9292

Baseline Stimulant ServiceA client-led drop service in Leicester to meet the needs of stimulant drug users which provides information, advice and harm reduction services.Tel: 0116 222 9555 www.lcp-trust.org.uk

Leicester Drugs Advice Centre 96 New Walk, LeicesterTel: 0116 222 9555

Northampton Women’s Aid0845 123 2311 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm)

Citizens Advice Bureau www.adviceguide.org.uk

UK National Domestic Violence Tel: 0808 2000 247 (24hr freephone) Brook AdvisoryConfidential sex advice for the under 25s Tel: 0800 0185 023 (freephone)www.brook.org.uk

Shelter housing advice helpline Lines are open daily from 8am to midnight.Tel: 0808 800 4444england.shelter.org.uk

No Panic - advice, counselling and self-help for people who experience anxiety, panic attacks, phobias or compulsive disorders.FREEPHONE 0808 808 0545 (10am–10pm every day)www.no-panic.co.uk

Age UK (formerly Age Concern and Help the Aged)www.ageuk.org.ukTel: 0800 169 6565

RelateAdvice and relationship counsellingwww.relate.org.ukTel: 0300 100 1234

Birmingham Information Services on Disabilities Tel: 0121 627 8610

Magistrates Court Fines, Victoria Law Courts, Corporation St, Birmingham. Tel: 0121 212 6600

RunawayAdvice for under 18s who have run away from home Tel: 0808 800 7070 (freephone)www.missingpeople.org.uk