New initiative to find and develop Leeds entrepreneurs hailed a success

A specially tailored course designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs in Leeds with the skills and knowledge to start up their own sustainable business has received high praise from the first group of participants.

Steps to Business, organised by Unity Enterprise - the not for profit subsidiary of Leeds-based housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise - was held over four days last month at Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown.

A Steps to Business workshop

It included a series of three-hour workshops, facilitated by leading training company PeoplePlus, covering a broad selection of topics ranging from marketing and bookkeeping through to guidance on how to transform an initial idea into a viable business concept.   

Feedback from participants has been universally positive.

Andrew, who took part in the programme, said: “It was the best business workshop I have attended.”

Miguel, who also attended, said: “It was inspiring.”

Tracey said: “Steps to Business workshops was fantastic, I attended all four sessions. It has allowed me to focus on what is necessary to start a business, adjust what I thought I knew and give me brand new tools to move forward with.  I would highly recommend this course to my friends as I believe this is something that is needed especially in the community and this current climate.”

Following the success of the programme in its first rollout, Steps to Business will run again from 17 to 20 April.   

Richard Aitoro, Business Advisor at Unity Enterprise, said: “The sessions were interactive and highly engaging which served to not only inform those taking part but inspire and motivate them along a positive entrepreneurial trajectory.

Unity Business Centre

“The individual modules were in depth, leaving everyone involved with a good level of insight into each topic covered.

“The PeoplePlus course facilitators were highly engaging, witty and altogether positive.

“The supportive atmosphere created a space where participants exchanged numbers and said they would enjoy attending other courses as part of the workshop group.”

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “We are really pleased at how well Steps to Business went first time around, as underlined by our decision to run a second programme in April.    

“Unity is fully committed to doing all we can to identify and develop entrepreneurial talent in the local community including through the provision of interactive training from experienced business professionals.    

“PeoplePlus are leaders in this field and the ideal partners for this innovative venture.

“I would urge people of all ages who believe they have a sound business idea and a commitment to make it succeed to consider signing up for the next round of Steps to Business. 

“It is a decision with the potential to transform their lives.”     

Liz Shaw, Contract Manager Peopleplus for Start Up West Yorkshire, said: “Thank you for allowing myself and my team to deliver a programme of business workshops in Unity Business Centre.

“It was fantastic to see so many business owners and starts up’s in one room, learning and networking over those four days.

“We thoroughly enjoyed delivering the programme and interaction and are looking forward to the next set of participants in April.”

Anyone interested in joining the next Steps to Business programme should contact Richard Aitoro at richard.aitoro@unityha.co.uk or Tel: 07395 328123.     

Budget offers little comfort for those on lowest incomes

The chief executive of Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has described today’s Budget statement as providing “little comfort for those on the lowest incomes.” 

Speaking after the Jeremy Hunt’s statement to MPs earlier today, Lee Bloomfield said: “Shortly after the Chancellor sat down, the independent Office for Budget Responsibility announced that living standards are expected to drop by 6 per cent in the current financial year and next – the largest fall since records began in the 1950s.

Lee Bloomfield, Manningham Housing Association chief executive

“With inflation predicted to stay relatively high by modern standards for the rest of this year and with personal taxation allowances not going up in April, this Budget provides little comfort for those on the lowest incomes.

“After the disastrous Budget last autumn, Jeremy Hunt had little money left to give away.

“However, it is notable that the only permanent tax cut he announced - costing £1 billion a year - was scrapping the lifetime allowance on tax-free pension contributions which only helps those on very high incomes.

“The extension of the freeze on energy bills for another three months is welcome but bills will not come down despite the wholesale gas price falling significantly.

“There was little on levelling up, nothing on building more affordable homes and, other than floating the idea of creating an investment zone in West Yorkshire, no new funds for Bradford despite previous promises of help, particularly around transport infrastructure.

“It is difficult to see what there was to cheer for the communities Manningham Housing Association is proud to serve.”  

Leeds Media Centre refurbishment gaining pace

Swift progress is being made on a £1.8 million redevelopment scheme which will create additional business space and improve life chances for aspiring entrepreneurs in Leeds.  

Cedric Boston, Unity Home and Enterprise chief executive (left), and Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager, at Leeds Media Centre which is undergoing a major upgrade

Scaffolding his been erected around Leeds Media Centre in Chapeltown in preparation for the installation of a new roof and modern windows.

Internal works are already well underway to remodel the ground and lower ground floors to create space for up to 12 new business units and a bespoke business hub with hi-tech virtual facilities.

The project, due for completion this summer, is being delivered by Unity Enterprise – a not-for-profit subsidiary of housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise – in partnership with Leeds City Council. 

It is part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund including support for a full-time business adviser to assist young businesses, with an emphasis on those working in the creative, digital and media sector.

Leeds Media Centre is owned by Leeds City Council and managed by Unity Enterprise on a long-term lease. 

 Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, said: “This major refurbishment project will significantly expand the affordable space we can offer local people wanting to launch their own business. 

“We are particularly excited about the new business hub which will enable start-up enterprises to grow quickly without the burden of high overhead costs.    

“Richard Altoro, our full-time business adviser, will take the lead in community outreach work, engage with prospective entrepreneurs who may be considering setting up a business and help to create pathways which can make this a viable career option.”     

Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager, said: “Working closely with our partners, we are delighted that the project is on time and on budget.

Cedric Boston, Unity Home and Enterprise chief executive (front left), and Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager (front right), at Leeds Media Centre

“Alongside Unity Business Centre and Chapeltown Enterprise Centre, Leeds Media Centre is one of three locations close to Leeds city centre operated by Unity Enterprise.

“Collectively, they provide 142 affordable business units for more than 80 diverse businesses employing over 750 people.

“We look forward to these numbers rising further when the works are complete.”   

Cllr Jonathan Pryor, deputy leader of Leeds City Council and executive member for economy, culture and education at Leeds City Council, said:

“It’s great to see this project gathering momentum as we get one step closer to its completion date.

“Being able to provide further affordable options to aspiring entrepreneurs within the local area is fantastic, and further extends and builds on our excellent ecosystem for innovation across the city.”

Unity Enterprise manager in running for leadership award

The head of a not-for-profit company dedicated to promoting entrepreneurial activity in Leeds has been shortlisted for a Northern Leadership Award.

Adrian Green, manager of Unity Enterprise, a not-for-profit subsidiary of housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise, is one of four finalists in the Public and Third Sector Leader category for the awards which “celebrate people that are role models within their organisations and raise the bar for their competitors” across the North of England.

Adrian Green (left) launching the Unity Enterprise “Steps to Business” initiative with Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, in 2022

Established in 2000, Unity Enterprise currently provides 142 affordable business units for more than 80 diverse businesses across three centres close to Leeds city centre. 

Mr Green joined in 2016 after working in a range of client-facing roles with major private sector employers including Jay Tee Group, Bank of Scotland and Yorkshire Bank.

He said: “I am flattered to be shortlisted for this award.

“The honour is most definitely shared with my team and our tenants who make Unity Enterprise what it is.

“The past three years have been incredibly difficult because of Covid and the ongoing economic challenges for businesses and households.   

“However, that has not stopped us putting exciting plans in place across our business centres. 

 “This recognition shows that influential people are taking notice of the work we are doing.”    

 Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, said: “Adrian has honed many capabilities across his career and possesses advanced business and property skills. 

“Using those skills, Adrian helps people, nurtures entrepreneurial talent and empowers enterprises to grow in a thriving business environment.

“He also goes the extra mile to make positive things happen in the communities served by Unity Enterprise.  

“I am delighted that his aptitude and dedication has been recognised by the judging panel.”  

The ceremony to announce the winners of the Northern Leadership Awards 2023 will be held on Thursday 30 March at The Midland Hotel in Manchester.

Leeds Jewish Housing Association shortlisted for prestigious award

The biggest construction project in the 70-year history of Leeds Jewish Housing Association (LJHA) has been shortlisted for Best Housing Development in the Chartered Institute of Housing Northern Awards 2023.

 An aerial view of Cherry Tree House (left) and Hillside

The award “recognises developments that provide desirable and sustainable places to live, improving people's lives within the community.”

The £14 million scheme at Queenshill Avenue in Moortown comprises 85 new properties including 51 sheltered housing apartments for those aged 55 and over, and 34 general needs apartments.

Kate Henderson, National Housing Federation Chief Executive (left), Cllr Robert W Gettings, Lord Mayor of Leeds (centre); and Cllr Lesley Gettings, Lady Mayoress (second from right) with LJHA residents in Cherry Tree House

It was officially opened last summer by Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, and Cllr Robert W Gettings, Lord Mayor of Leeds.

The sheltered apartments are physically connected to 130 existing properties in three other buildings to form a sheltered village of 181 apartments for older people with secure access to the Ziff Community Centre which provides a range of culturally sensitive services, activities and food.

Craig Simons, LJHA Director of Operations, said: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this award.

Craig Simons, Director of Operations at LJHA  

“The new development was many years in the planning, not helped by the onset of the pandemic in March 2020 just as construction was getting underway.  However, LJHA and the Leeds Jewish community are nothing if not resilient and, working closely with Equans, we were determined to see the project through to the end with minimal delays.

 “Acanthus accompanied LJHA staff on road trips to other new build housing schemes to help reach final decisions on exactly what was required aesthetically and how it would work, especially in relation to older persons’ provision. 

“Hiedi Lazenby was engaged with the task of delivering buildings with internal qualities every bit as impressive as the magnificent exteriors.  

“Tenant groups also helped with a range of choices including fixtures and fittings, bathrooms and kitchens.

“The final result was 85 extremely impressive new homes in heart of the community, low rent, modern, energy efficient, warm and secure. 

“LJHA is proud of what has been achieved and delighted that this has been recognised by the Chartered Institute of Housing.”   

Leeds housing association recruiting new director to boost service delivery

Unity Homes and Enterprise is seeking a Director of Housing Operations with expertise in customer service, customer engagement and service delivery.

A permanent position, the successful candidate will provide strategic direction for the delivery of all housing services including tenancy management, responsive repairs, planned and cyclical maintenance, estates services, customer services and rental income.

They will be a corporate player with management experience and a strong commitment to Unity’s social purpose.

Applications from women and people with disabilities are especially welcome.

Holding the highest available gradings the Regulator of Social Housing, Unity is a successful, independent, and ambitious BME housing association operating in some of the most deprived and multicultural neighbourhoods in Leeds.

Alongside its role as a landlord and provider of housing services, the association helps people set up and run their own businesses, secure employment, and take up training, education, and volunteering opportunities to enhance their career prospects.

Unity Chief Executive Cedric Boston

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “It is a particularly exciting time to be joining the organisation as we continue the work to transform our new five-year strategic vision into reality.   

“As a key member of the Senior Management Team, the Director of Housing Operations will have a pivotal role in this exciting phase of Unity’s evolution.  

“We are looking for a person who shares our passion for providing excellent services and has the drive to help people create a better future for themselves and the communities we serve.”  

More information about the post is available on the Unity Homes and Enterprise website.

Applications close at midnight on Sunday 12 February.  

Historic Leeds studios used by Kaiser Chiefs opens for free public tours

Old Chapel Music Studios in Leeds is opening its doors to the public for free organised tours every month until the end of February 2024.

The stage is set at Old Chapel Music Studios 

As well as playing a key part in the stories of some of the city’s best known bands including the Kaiser Chiefs, Embrace, and Red Lorry Yellow Lorry, Old Chapel Music CIC - a not for profit community interest company which manages the studios in Holbeck - supports young people, up-and-coming artists and community groups, giving them access to the same facilities as established bands.

Residents since 1997 when as teenagers they were known as Parva, the Kaiser Chiefs still rehearse at Old Chapel Music Studios and have their own room in the extension they helped to fund in 2013.

Kaiser Chiefs keyboard player Nick ‘Peanut’ Baines said: “Old Chapel is our musical home. Wherever we are within these walls it still feels like home.

“It’s accessible to all, it’s open to all, it’s about music for everyone. It’s a place to create, and a place to be welcomed and a place to be safe.”

The Kaiser Chiefs take a break from rehearsals at Old Chapel Music Studios 

Embrace speak equally highly about the role Old Chapel Studios played in their journey to success.

The band’s drummer, Mike Heaton, said: "My memories of Old Chapel Studios are all really great, we had a lot of fun there.

“It's a great place, great community then, so many different bands, so many different genres of music in there, I don't remember any bad words said between the bands, everyone got on even though we were radically different people.

“It was a space where you could be creative, develop, it was always great value for money and just a fantastic place."

Embrace drummer Mike Heaton (right) with Old Chapel Music CIC Joint CEO Katie Hayes and Studio Supervisor Jim Fields at Old Chapel Music Studios 

Old Chapel Music CIC also works closely with Festival Republic, promoter of the Leeds and Reading Festivals, which guides talented females and female-identified artists into the industry through its ReBalance programme launched in 2018.

Festival Republic Managing Director Melvin Benn said: "It’s rare that community and professional can be used in the same sentence but, when talking about Old Chapel Music Studios, that rarity is allowed.

"They mix that community approach and commitment with a professionalism at all levels that means that young female artists making their first EP like those that have been part of my ReBalance programme feel absolutely at home and confident they will be looked after in the same way that internationally known musicians and bands do. It’s a rare combination.”

The free tours, funded by Leeds Civic Trust, cover the facility’s relocation and rebrand from Parkside Studios in 1992, together with the 30-year tale of its development from a former Wesleyan chapel into the community-focused creative hub it has become.

Featuring never-before-seen artefacts, participants have the chance to get hands-on with instruments and recording facilities, join in with quizzes and take away photo mementos from their visit.

The tours run at 11.30am and 2.30pm on the last Sunday of every month. They should be booked in advance by visiting oldchapelleeds.org and going to the ‘events’ page.

Peer joins UK Government Minister in criticism of BBC NI over cuts to local radio

A Minister has admitted to Ulster Unionist peer Lord Rogan that the UK Government was “disappointed with how the BBC handled its announcement of cuts to Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle.”

Lord Rogan wrote to Arts Minister Lord Parkinson in November expressing his “outrage” after a personal assurance that Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle would not be affected by BBC cuts proved to be inaccurate.

Following an announcement in October that programming on BBC local radio stations in England was to be reduced, Lord Rogan tabled a Parliamentary Question asking what discussions the Government had held with the BBC “about cuts to local radio services” and whether there had been “any indication that BBC Radio Ulster or BBC Radio Foyle, will be affected by such cuts”

In his response, Lord Parkinson said: “The BBC’s recent announcement will only affect the BBC’s local radio services in England. There should be no impact on BBC Radio Ulster or BBC Radio Foyle.”

 It was later confirmed that BBC Northern Ireland is planning to cut local jobs and programming including the daily breakfast news programme on Radio Foyle and the Inside Business programme on Radio Ulster.

 The Ulster Unionist peer wrote to Lord Parkinson seeking an explanation.

 In the Government’s response to Lord Rogan, Media Minister Julia Lopez MP wrote:

 “When Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay answered your Written Parliamentary Question on 17 November, the only changes to BBC Radio services which my Department and I were aware of at the time were to those in England, and we had received no advance notice that reductions to BBC services in Northern Ireland would be announced on 29 November.

 “Following the BBC's announcement relating to England, I met the Chairman and Director-General of the BBC to outline our concerns and the strength of opposition across Parliament to the BBC's proposals. I also raised the lack of warning the BBC had provided the Government about changes to local radio.

Lord Rogan

 “I was therefore disappointed with how the BBC handled its announcement of cuts to Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle.  Following the BBC’s announcement of cuts in Northern Ireland, the Secretary of State for DCMS, the Rt Hon Michelle Donelan MP wrote to the Chair and Director-General to communicate our concerns with how this was handled.”

Lord Rogan said: “I welcome the Minister’s candour but it would appear the situation remains unchanged with the axe continuing to hang over programming at Radio Foyle and also Radio Ulster with Inside Business set to follow Inside Politics on to the scrap heap.

“I share her disappointment at the manner in which the management of BBC Northern Ireland handled the situation with local licence fee payers paying a heavy price, together with those journalists likely to lose their jobs.

“I hope the situation can yet be rectified and a workable solution found.”  

Guiseley Scout thanks Lions for fundraiser support

A young Guiseley AFC season ticket holder has thanked the club after he was given a signed match ball and two free tickets to support his efforts to raise funds to attend the 25th World Scout Jamboree in South Korea.

Guiseley AFC Football Secretary and General Manager James Pickles (left) presents a signed match ball to Jamie White who is raising funds to attend the 25th World Scout Jamboree

Jamie White, 14, went through a tough selection process before being chosen to travel to the Far East this summer as a member of the United Kingdom Contingent.

He will join more than 40,000 Scouts from over 150 nations for the event which takes place in a different host country every four years. 

One of the conditions of attendance is that each Scout must raise the money to pay for the trip themselves.

Jamie has now raised more than £2,200 towards his target of £3,800 through a series of ventures including a 12-hour ‘spinathon’ on a static bicycle in his driveway in July.

His latest fundraiser will be a pub quiz at Coopers Bar and Brasserie in Guiseley on Friday 20 January which already looks set to attract a capacity crowd.

Jamie issued an appeal for donations of prizes for the quiz and also a raffle which will take place on the same evening.

Guiseley AFC answered the call with Football Secretary and General Manager James Pickles handing over the signed match ball and tickets to Jamie before last Saturday’s impressive 2-1 league victory over Nantwich Town.   

Jamie said: “I am really grateful to James and Guiseley AFC for their kindness. 

“I think there will be a big turnout for the quiz but we are short of prizes and the ball and tickets are brilliant. 

“It was nice to meet James and thank him in person.”  

 Individuals or businesses who might also be able to offer a prize should contact Jamie’s dad, Barry, on Tel: 07787 514324 or email: barry@vanbarassociates.com

 Anyone wishing to sponsor Jamie’s efforts can do so online by visiting the GoFundMe website and entering ‘Jamie White Scout’ to access his personal page.

Bradford’s potential must be properly harnessed – New Year message

The Chair and Chief Executive of Manningham Housing Association (MHA) have described Bradford district as “a place of great talent and limitless potential.”

In a joint New Year message, Barrington Billings and Lee Bloomfield also pledged on behalf of the association to continue speaking up for those who struggle to be heard and to make a positive difference to people’s lives in Bradford and Keighley where MHA manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents.

MHA staff in front of the association’s Bradford head office

In their statement, they said: “Despite the huge challenges, 2022 was another successful year for MHA with several award wins and the retention of the association’s accreditations for diversity and inclusion, and also customer excellence where we achieved a compliance plus rating in 11 individual areas of work.  

“The beginning of a brand a new year should be a time for collective renewal and high expectations for the 12 months ahead.

“Instead, as the cost of living crisis tightens its grip and with Government Ministers admitting the country is likely to be in recession for the whole of 2023, reasons for optimism are difficult to find.

“With our partners, MHA is motivated by a burning desire to improve the lives of our tenants in Bradford and Keighley and address the needs of the surrounding communities.

“These are areas which were supposed to be at the top of the list for levelling up and it remains our hope that promises made will be delivered, including better rail links and a new station for Bradford.

“Being UK City of Culture 2025 should be the catalyst for a new era for Bradford district and its people who have so much to offer the country culturally, socially and economically.

“It is a place of great talent and limitless potential.

“But these attributes must be properly harnessed regionally and nationally if that potential is to be fully realised.  

“MHA is keen to partner with any organisation which is committed to boosting the quality of lives here.

“That may include helping us to provide more high quality affordable homes, supporting neighbourhood skills improvement programmes or getting involved with community engagement schemes which do so much to raise physical and mental wellbeing.     

“MHA is under no illusions about how tough 2023 will be for so many.

“However, we are resolute in our determination to make it a year we will look back on with pride.

“Over the next 12 months, the association will continue to speak up for people who often struggle to be heard.

“But we will do much more than talking.  Working in partnership with those who share our vision, we will improve lives, we will raise aspirations, we will make a positive difference.”      

Unity apprentice Kickstarts career with national award

Ben Coultas, a 23-year-old apprentice from Leeds, has won a prestigious national award for his selfless efforts in helping others on a job placement scheme for young people at risk of long-term unemployment.

Ben triumphed in the Peer to Peer Mentor category at the Clarion Kickstart Housing Partnership Awards held at Chelsea Football Club’s Stamford Bridge stadium in London.

Established by the Clarion Housing Group, the partnership comprises 84 organisations from the public, private and voluntary sectors, with 58 from the housing sector.

They include Leeds-based housing association, Unity Homes and Enterprise, where Ben completed his placement and is now employed as a full-time apprentice in the Regeneration Department.

More than 500 individuals aged 16-24 year-olds were supported into paid six-month roles through the scheme.  

Following a rigorous selection process, Ben was placed with Unity’s Regeneration team where he was able to access training courses including communication skills and Excel, and gain first-hand experience of the different processes and situations the team faced each day.

But that was not enough for Ben, one of five Kickstarters at Unity, who was determined to reach out to others on the scheme. 

Unity apprentice Ben Coultas with his Clarion Kickstart Housing Partnership Peer to Peer Mentor Award

Kelly Jennings, Unity Employment Outreach Officers, said: “Ben showed great empathy and support towards fellow Kickstart colleagues, quickly gaining a reputation for his encouragement, dedication and positive attitude to those around him.

“This included assisting one Kickstarter with her application to university by helping her through the process and conducting interviews relevant to the course she had applied for.

 “Throughout his placement, Ben also assisted the Employment Services team with our employability and training sessions.

 “Nothing was ever too much trouble.  He is a real star.”

 Wayne Noteman, Unity Regeneration Director, said: “Ben has come on and developed so much in his time with Unity, both as a professional and a young man.

First on the Kickstart scheme and now as an apprentice, giant strides have been made.

“I am so proud of him, his award is thoroughly deserved.

“Ben has a great future ahead in housing.  I hope he stays with Unity where I know he will fulfil his enormous potential.”

Cedric Boston, Unity Chief Executive, said: “Unity takes immense pride in the work we do to reach out to the local community and create opportunities for local people to transform their life chances.

“Ben has not only grabbed his opportunity but gone the extra mile to help others as the judges have recognised by giving him this national award.

“He has an excellent career in prospect and can be a role model for others in the local community.”  Ben, who attended Lawnswood School in Leeds, said: “I am very proud to have won the award for Peer to Peer Mentor as I always try to support my colleagues where I can.

 “The people who work at Unity and within my team have made it easy for me to be happy, knowing we all strive to make a difference in our communities.

 “I hope to continue to achieve great things with Unity.”

Dynamic leader brings wealth of experience to Unity

Sharon Jandu, Managing Director of the Northern Asian Power policy think tank, has been appointed as Chair of Unity Enterprise and a Board Member of Unity Housing Association.

Amongst other leadership positions, Ms Jandu, a co-founder of Yorkshire Asian Business Association, also serves as the Federation of Small Businesses Area Leader in Yorkshire, the Humber and the North-East, and is a Confederation of British Industry Regional Council Member for Yorkshire and the Humber,

Unity Enterprise and Unity Housing Association are part of the Unity Homes and Enterprise Group based in the Chapeltown area of Leeds.

Unity Housing Association was formed in 1987 to address the needs of black and minority ethnic communities in Leeds, and now manages over 1,350 properties for tenants from all communities and ethnic backgrounds.

Unity Enterprise was established in 2000 as a not-for-profit subsidiary company to support local entrepreneurial activity.  It currently provides 142 affordable units for more than 80 diverse businesses across three centres in Leeds. 

That number is set to increase next summer following the completion of a £1.8 million Leeds Media Centre redevelopment scheme which will create 12 new units and a bespoke business hub.  

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Sharon to Unity.  She is a highly respected, dynamic leader with a wealth of experience gained in the private, public and third sectors.

“Sharon also has a deep appreciation of the issues affecting the communities we are privileged to work with every day.

“The revitalisation of these communities is not just about providing high quality affordable homes, but also stimulating social and economic regeneration, improving life opportunities and addressing inequalities within sustainable neighbourhoods.

Sharon Jandu

“In her dual roles, Sharon will enable Unity to further advance these objectives.”        

Sharon Jandu said: “I lived in Chapeltown for nearly 10 years. I know the area well and how it feels to live in a challenged community.

“Unity has earned a reputation as one of the country’s most successful and forward-thinking housing associations, driven by its social purpose to fight inequality and empower BME people.    

“Unity Enterprise is a key component of this work through its support for local businesses including initiatives to identify and develop local entrepreneurs.  The upgrade of Leeds Media Centre will provide a major boost to these efforts and increase economic activity in Chapeltown and surrounding areas. 

“As Chair, I look forward to being at the heart of delivering a winning strategy to help many more people fulfil their business potential and live better lives.”  

Guiseley Scout to continue fundraising quest with New Year pub quiz

A Guiseley schoolboy who pedalled for 12 hours to raise money to attend the 25th World Scout Jamboree in South Korea will continue his fundraising efforts by co-hosting a pub quiz in the upstairs function room at Coopers Bar and Brasserie in the town on Friday 20 January.

Guiseley schoolboy Jamie White who is raising funds to attend the 25th World Scout Jamboree

Jamie White, 14, went through a rigorous selection process to be chosen as a member of the United Kingdom Contingent travelling to the Far East next summer.

He will join more than 40,000 Scouts from over 150 nations for the event which takes place in a different host country every four years.  

One of the conditions of attendance is that each Scout must raise the money to pay for the trip themselves.

Jamie raised more than £1,000 through his ‘spinathon’ in July which saw him and supporters complete 12 hours of non-stop cycling on a static bike on his driveway.

Added to other ventures including a cake sale organised by his 11-year-old sister Charlotte and a morning of carol singing at the White Rose Centre, Jamie has now raised just over £2,100 towards his target of £3,800.

He hopes his pub quiz will attract lots of local support – with fun the order of the evening.

Jamie White with supporters at his 12-hour ‘spinathon’ in July 

Jamie said: “There will be 11 rounds of questions with a different co-host joining me for each round.

“We are also planning to have some live music halfway through and after the quiz has finished.

“I hope people will come along, bring friends and have a really good night out.”

 Jamie is also appealing for prizes for the quiz and a raffle. 

 Individuals or businesses who would like to offer a prize should contact Jamie’s dad, Barry, on Tel: 07787 514324 or email: barry@vanbarassociates.com

Further details about the evening will be announced in early January.   

Anyone unable to attend the quiz but wishing to make a donation can do so online by visiting the GoFundMe website and entering ‘Jamie White Scout’ to access his personal page.

Praise for ‘exceptional’ housing association with diversity and inclusion in its DNA

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has been officially reaccredited for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The BS 76005 certification is awarded to organisations that promote a culture which recognises and celebrates people’s differences.

In his final report, the Centre for Assessment assessor wrote:  “MHA is clearly a values driven organisation and people are strongly committed to the work of the association.

“Diversity and inclusion is deeply embedded in the DNA of the organisation, the association was founded some 35 years ago and it is clear that those principles have not only endured over the decades and the sense of inclusion has increased as the organisation reaches out to wider communities.”

He praised MHA staff for taking proactive roles in supporting residents and tenants, efforts he described as “visible on a daily basis whether through the benefits advice provided or advocating on behalf of those on universal credit or applying for council tax and pensions.”

He continued: “The entire MHA team is focused on exceeding customers’ expectations, delivering excellent customer service by providing more homes, looking after the existing homes, investing in the community, developing partnerships and, as the only BME landlord in Bradford, MHA has the leverage and standing within the city to become a lead voice for BME communities.”

The assessor added: “MHA is an exceptional organisation.”

Manningham Housing Association staff at their Bradford head office

Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira, MHA Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead, said: “We are thrilled to be recognised once again for having diversity and inclusion at the heart of everything we do.

“MHA was the first housing association in the country to achieve the BS 76005 standard and we regard this as a badge of honour.

“I am proud to have guided MHA through the latest reaccreditation process and delighted at the outcome.” 

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive, said: “We were recently named Equality Trailblazer for West and North Yorkshire at the Chamber Business, so being reaccredited by the Centre for Assessment for our commitment to equality and diversity is doubly pleasing.

“Our desire to celebrate difference makes us what we are. 

“It is especially satisfying when our approach is commended by a highly respected national organisation, alongside the positive words about our work with tenants and residents.

“We will continue to build on our achievements and try to raise the bar even higher.”

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “It is a fantastic report which rightly recognises the remarkable efforts of MHA staff to champion diversity and inclusion.  

“I welcome the praise for the leadership provided by the senior management team and board, including a fitting acknowledgement of the skills and fresh perspectives which new board members have brought to the organisation.  

“The collective commitment of everyone at MHA to make people’s lives better, particularly as we endure a cost of living crisis, is phenomenal.

“It is a pleasure to be involved.”  

Government must release energy payments to NI households, UUP peer tells late night debate

Ulster Unionist peer Lord Rogan has used a House of Lords debate to appeal to the Government to release promised support payments to help Northern Ireland households pay their energy bills.

Speaking in a House of Lords debate on the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement last night, Lord Rogan said a great many people were “deeply worried about their personal finances as the cost of living crisis tightens its grip.”

And he criticised the Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris for appearing on television screens to tell local people that “Northern Ireland-specific spending cuts are on their way.”

Lord Rogan

Lord Rogan said: “He also threatened to increase fares on public transport, raise the regional rates and introduce water charges. What he failed to do was to provide an indication of when Northern Ireland consumers can expect to receive the £400 promised to them through the energy bills support scheme and the £200 home heating oil support payment promised by the Chancellor in his Autumn Statement.”

The Deputy Lord Speaker told peers that “it surely cannot be right that while households in Great Britain began receiving their energy bills support scheme payments in October, people in Northern Ireland are yet to receive any payment whatever,” adding that Energy Minister Graham Stuart, “recently admitted that a joint task force set up to deliver the payments had met only twice—I repeat, only twice—between the middle of August and the middle of November.”

Lord Rogan appealed to Treasury Minister Baroness Penn – speaking on behalf of the Government - to “update the people of Northern Ireland on when she expects the first energy payments to be released, and by which mechanism.”

He told her: “It is truly a dominant issue in Northern Ireland at present, as I am sure you will fully understand.”

Responding, Baroness Penn said: “The Government are working to ensure that the people of Northern Ireland receive energy bills support scheme support as soon as possible.”

She told Lord Rogan: “I reassure you and the people of Northern Ireland that support will reach them this winter.”

Unity Business Adviser ready to show enterprise

Richard Altoro has been appointed as Business Adviser by Unity Enterprise, the not-for-profit subsidiary company of Leeds housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise.

He will lead business development within the Chapeltown and Harehills area, and oversee the launch of a local enterprise hub at Leeds Media Centre which is currently undergoing a £1.8 million refurbishment in partnership with Leeds City Council and the European Regional Development Fund.

The building is one of three business centres operated by Unity Enterprise close to Leeds city centre which collectively offer 142 affordable business units for more than 80 diverse businesses. 

Reporting to Unity Enterprise Manager Adrian Green, Mr Altoro has extensive experience of supporting start-ups, existing businesses, community organisations and social enterprises.

Richard Altoro (right) with Adrian Green at Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown

He has previously worked for Unity as a Business Advisor for Unity Enterprise and Leeds Chamber of Commerce, supporting start-ups and SMEs with business planning, cashflow forecasts, sourcing finance, copywriting, marketing, branding and social media strategies.

Richard Altoro said: “It is an exciting time to be joining Unity Enterprise with the Leeds Media Centre redevelopment scheme due for completion next summer.  This will significantly expand capacity with 12 new business units, in addition to a bespoke business hub with hi-tech virtual facilities and meeting areas.

“My mission is to deliver a major boost to the enterprise culture in Chapeltown through the provision of professional support to enable aspiring local entrepreneurs to succeed.

“Whether you are a start-up or existing business, I am happy to offer support and insights to help grow your business.”    

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “We are more than a housing association.  Guided by our social purpose, we are driven to empower people to improve their lives by creating economic opportunities.  Unity Enterprise is central to this.

“We are particularly keen to reach out and provide support and assistance to local people who want to set up their own business and have the talent to succeed but have not yet been given that chance. 

“Richard possesses a wealth of business experience and expertise which will be invaluable to the entrepreneurs of today and tomorrow.

“He is an excellent fit for the role.  I have no doubt that Richard’s impact will be quickly felt, not just locally, but across the wider Leeds and West Yorkshire business community.”    

Manningham Housing Association hits high standards with national award

Manningham Housing Association has won the prestigious British Standards Institution (BSI) Users Award for Sustainability.

Manningham Housing Association’s Head of Housing Services Nadim Khaliq (left), and Neighbourhoods Team Leader Harry Manford (right), receiving the BSI Users Award for Sustainability in London

The accolade, which recognises the use of voluntary standards to enable sustainability, was presented at the BSI Standards Conference and Awards at the Park Plaza Victoria in London. 

Formed in 1901, BSI is appointed by the UK Government as the national standards body, holds the Royal Charter, and represents UK interests at the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), the International Electrotechnical Commission and the European Standards Organisations.  

Its role is to help improve the quality and safety of products, services and systems by enabling the creation of standards and encouraging their use.

In a joint citation, the judges said of the Sustainability Award winner: “Manningham Housing Association has used BS 76005:2017 Valuing People through Diversity and Inclusion to ensure they can provide great customer care to over 6,000 diverse residents who live in their high-quality affordable homes across in Bradford and Keighley.

 “Use of the standard has helped them ensure they have a better understanding of all their customers' needs which in turn enables them retain customer satisfaction ratings of 90% but also helped them to put in place additional support and programming needed during the pandemic.”

Ulfat Hussain, Manningham Housing Association Deputy Chief Executive, said: “I am proud of the team and delighted at the recognition this high profile award brings them.

“Covid-19 brought inevitable changes to the way we operate, including a need to use technology more effectively to assist service delivery and monitoring of performance. 

 “The move towards greater digitisation made us more sustainable and will continue to serve us well into the future.

 “Manningham Housing Association is a ‘glass half full’ organisation and we always seek to gain positives from every situation we face.”     

 Barrington Billings, Manningham Housing Association Chair, said: “Winning the BSI Users Award for Sustainability is a remarkable but well-deserved achievement, particularly given our relatively small size.

“We take sustainability incredibly seriously and, despite the many difficulties the pandemic brought, it is heartening to know the judges felt that Manningham Housing Association not only rose to the challenge but raised the bar.      

“There are more dark days ahead as the cost of living crisis continues to bite but I know our staff will continue to be guided in all they do by the bright beacon of hope.”     

Peer backs protection for Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle

Lord Rogan has welcomed confirmation from a UK Government Minister that Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle will not be affected by plans to reduce BBC local radio output.

Last month the corporation announced that programming would be cut on local stations.

39 networks in England will keep their current schedule from 6am to 2pm, but after that shows will be shared.

Programme sharing will result in the loss of 48 jobs, and 139 roles will be lost in audio teams.

The future of Northern Ireland’s BBC stations was not mentioned in the announcement, prompting the Ulster Unionist peer to table a Parliamentary Question asking what discussions the Government had held with the BBC about cuts to local radio services and whether Radio Ulster or Radio Foyle would be affected.

In his reply, Arts Minister Lord Parkinson said the Government was “disappointed by the extent of the BBC’s proposed changes to local radio services.”

He said: “We will be raising this issue with the BBC and wait to hear more from the BBC on how it expects these changes to affect local communities, including the provision of local news and media plurality.”

But he added: “The BBC’s recent announcement will only affect the BBC’s local radio services in England.  There should be no impact on BBC Radio Ulster or BBC Radio Foyle.”

Lord Rogan said the Minister’s reply had come as “a great relief.”

Lord Rogan

He commented: “I listen to Radio Ulster every day, including when I am in London, and often tune into Radio Foyle to hear what is going on in the North-West.

“Their quality is on a different level in comparison with BBC local radio elsewhere in the UK. 

 “I am sorry that stations in England are facing cuts because they also provide a valued service for their listeners.  I hope there can be a rethink.

 “However, everyone at Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle should be incredibly proud of what they do. 

 “I hope they are still broadcasting many years from now.”

Northern Ireland peer condemns UK Government approach to China

Ulster Unionist peer Lord Rogan has strongly criticised the UK Government for failing to categorise human rights abuses in China as genocide and providing Chinese President Xi Jinping with “wiggle room” for his country’s aggressive approach towards Taiwan.

Lord Rogan

Speaking in a House of Lords debate earlier today, Lord Rogan – a co-chair of the British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group – said there had been “a conveyer belt of UK Prime Ministers” who “failed to truly stand up to the Beijing bully boys over Taiwan.”

And he told peers that Defence Secretary Ben Wallace had recently advised a House of Lords committee that the Government supported a “peaceful process” in relation to the Chinese plan “to reunify Taiwan to mainland China.”

He said: “I have to say, that is a statement which surely had President Xi and his coterie rubbing their hands in glee.  In contrast, I have no doubt that they were words that had the good people of Taiwan holding their heads in despair and fear.”

Lord Rogan said the world was gaining greater awareness of the appalling crimes committed by China against the Uyghur Muslims including killings, mass detentions, torture, forced mass sterilisation and cultural persecution.

He said: “The United States has accurately described China’s treatment of the Uyghurs as genocide, with the Belgian, Canadian, Czech, Lithuanian and Dutch parliaments passing resolutions accusing the Chinese Government of committing genocide against them.

“So too has the UK Parliament.”

But he added: “Startlingly, this is not the formal view of Her Majesty’s Government which instead has held steadfastly to the position that it should ‘not make determinations in relation to genocide.’”   

He said: “Failing to stand up to state-led aggression, sabre rattling and worse has terrible consequences, as the brave people of Ukraine are experiencing each and every day.

“Russia invaded Ukraine because President Putin believed he could get away with it. 

“I hold the same fears about President Xi’s attitude towards Taiwan.”