New Charter's winning team makes Mill magic!

The team responsible for transforming a converted mill has won a top prize at the Social Landlords Crime and Nuisance Group’s ‘Delivering results’ Awards 2009.

New Charter bought Cavendish Mill, a troubled canalside apartment block in Ashton-under-Lyne in June 2008. Intensive management, a determination to tackle anti-social behaviour and engaging with residents has transformed it into a quieter, safer and more desirable place to live.

The seven-storey Grade II listed building was rescued from dereliction in 1992, and converted to residential use. But by 2008 the building was badly neglected and in need of major improvements. Disheartened residents of the 159 apartments saw no point in reporting problems as they felt nothing would be done. Abuse of security staff, drunkenness, criminal damage and drug taking were rife, and vulnerable residents were being exploited.

The surrounding community also suffered. Police frequently dealt with incidents of assaults and serious crime in the Mill’s vicinity.

New Charter formed a multidisciplinary team with complementary skills to tackle the root causes of the problems. This team was given responsibility and authority to do whatever was needed to rejuvenate the Mill and make it a safe place for residents. The team included cleaners, caretakers, neighbourhood management, enforcement staff, and dedicated legal support.

The team believed residents were the key to transform the Mill. It used various involvement activities to get residents engaged and contributing, such as coffee mornings. Importantly, it also increased the use of a Resource Centre in the Mill. There was always someone available for residents to talk to.

In the first year, around 20 residents were referred to a support agency funded by New Charter which made a positive impact on their lives.

Managing Director of New Charter Homes, Tony Powell said: “The team included some of our anti-social behaviour specialists but also worked closely with Greater Manchester Police to address criminal issues. Police held surgeries at the Resource Centre so residents could speak in confidence to them.

“We used injunctions, possession actions, warnings and support to those whose behaviour was related to particular needs, especially mental illness.”

The effect of the work has been remarkable. Police and Fire services report a dramatic decline in incidents, and New Charter took firm action on tenancy breaches including nine evictions. Security alerts and incidents have fallen from an average of 35 a week to just 2.

Resident Kevin Kissane has lived in Cavendish Mill throughout the transformation. He said: “It is a different place now from just over a year ago. There’s a sense of community – residents get involved and talk to one another. We don’t see Cavendish Mill as a home of last resort any more. It’s better and safer, and I’m proud to live here.”

The award, sponsored by ReACT was presented to the team at the Social Landlords Crime and Nuisance Group conference in Telford.

Investment in the Mill continues this month with the start of work to replace all 333 windows.
www.newcharter.co.uk