Going Green in Chadwell Heath

Cunningham Close, a retirement scheme in Chadwell Heath, Essex managed by Home, one of the UK’s largest providers of affordable housing, hosted its third ‘Green Day’ on 30th April.

Scheme Manager, Elaine Wickham , says: “We had a fantastic turnout from residents as well as staff from local organisations who kindly gave us presentations about their work. For example, Age Concern gave a talk about nutrition, Wiltshire Farmfoods shared tips for healthy eating and donated free ice cream!. We also had staff from the Redbridge Recycling Team and Crime Prevention offering ideas on how to recycle and keep safe in the community.

“If that were not enough, Cunningham Close has created (we hope) the world’s largest garland – made out of plastic carrier bags! My residents have a unique and remarkable talent – creating garments and decorations, such as hats, bags, Christmas decorations from disused carrier bags. Their wonderful garland was on proud display at the event and we have submitted our application to the Guinness Book of records”.

Residents at Cunningham Close do a wonderful job in recycling and saving energy. Cunningham Close is now used as a local example of ‘good practice’ as Redbridge Council encourages residents across the borough to recycle more and save energy.

As Tom Lawrence, Recycling Manager from Redbridge Council explains: “We were delighted to support Elaine and her amazing residents at Green Day 3. The recycling rate in Redbridge has significantly increased over the past few years and we have succeeded in meeting our 2008/9 targets. Our partnership with Cunningham Close has certainly contributed greatly to our success.”

Cunningham Close comprises 51 homes and the scheme now features eco washing machines, four recycling bins and compost bins, residents are being encouraged to grow their own fruit and vegetables this year. The scheme has also purchased two water butts made from recycled materials from the Essex Water Board.

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About Home’s retirement schemes:

Home currently manages 2500 retirement leasehold properties (57 schemes). The majority of these are based in the south east. Many of Home’s leasehold residents formerly owned larger properties that became difficult to maintain, so the option of moving into a fully equipped modern flat with the added comfort of a Warden Call system and communal amenities becomes a tempting alternative.

The high quality and support provided in a Home leasehold property ensures that new residents quickly settle in. The emphasis on these schemes is to ensure residents maintain their independence, but with advice and support available if needed. Each scheme has its own Manager who, as well as helping with practical issues, also arranges a variety of activities, from fish and chip nights to Yoga classes. This means that each scheme develops its own character and social life