The Community Caretakers have been successfully running within IBC from May 2002, this being expanded from the original scheme of Mobile Caretakers.

Part funding was secured in 2002 from the then (ODPM) to expand the original service from 2 members of staff to 7 and hence the name change as well.

Funding ran out in 2005 and the scheme was successful in gaining mainstream funding through HRA (housing revenue account) and general funds, this has since been directed from funding through the HRA in 2007.

2006 saw another significant change within the scheme by yet again expanding to 11 members of staff, and this being from such a pro-active and can do service the scheme has built over the past 5 years the belief and backing from local councillors and tenants helped gain this recognition.

Staff table:

1 x Manager

1 x Supervisor

7 x Community Caretakers

2 x Trainees

In 2004 the scheme achieved the Warden Quality Standard Award + distinction through the Neighbourhood Renewal Unit, this is to be reviewed on the 19^th Sept 07 and with early indications from our scheme visit we are looking likely to repeat our good fortunes.

Community Caretakers Aims:

Tackling ASB.

Reducing crime and the fear of crime/high visibility presence.

Safety awareness, working alongside hard to reach groups i.e. elderly and vulnerable.

Improving quality of life.

Tenant lead initiatives/improvements.

Promoting Green, Clean and Safer Ipswich.

Estate Inspections i.e. communal cleaning, minor communal repairs, reporting defects etc.

Liaising with housing staff on a regular basis.

Health and Safety i.e. contractors working on site, pre/post inspections of defects reported etc.

Multi agency approach in working with the local communities.

Evening patrols and Saturday shifts to target hot spots.

Liaising with local schools and youth groups i.e. work placements

 

 

 

 

The Community Caretaking Service

What Will the Caretakers Do?
Tenants have responsibilities within the tenancy agreement to maintain their homes and communal areas. The Caretakers are on hand to help those who are less able to do so.

The Community Caretakers have a broad role:

Clear litter and instigate the removal of bulky waste items

Identify and report repairs required to communal areas

Check communal lighting and security

Remove graffiti

Identify and report unauthorised parking and abandoned vehicles

Report incidents of crime or nuisance

Regular patrol of blocks of flats to ensure the health and safety of residents

Give advice to tenants on the use of refuse facilities, recycling and disposal of garden waste and bulky items

Involve residents in local clear up campaigns

Assist elderly or vulnerable tenants with health and safety measures

Appointment with Caretaker
If you would like to make an appointment to see a Community Caretaker, please contact the Caretaker Manager - click here to send an email.

 For a copy of the Community Caretaker Information Leaflet click here.