January and February can sometimes feel like a bit of a drag – the days are short, the weather’s cold and motivation can be hard to come by. But small actions, whether for yourself or others, can make a big difference. Here are some practical and heartwarming ways to brighten your day and spread positivity in your community.

Spread kindness with simple gestures:

• Leave friendly notes: Write uplifting messages or thank-you notes and leave them on your neighbours’ doors. A small gesture can go a long way in spreading cheer.
• Share a treat: Surprise your neighbours with homemade cakes, biscuits, or other goodies. A little sweetness never hurts!
• Offer a helping hand: Help out with small tasks like carrying shopping, watering plants, or tidying up shared spaces.
• Create a kindness wall: Set up a community board where residents can leave notes of encouragement, appreciation, or kind words for one another.

Learn and connect with skill sharing workshops:

• DIY and craft: Got a knack for fixing things or making something beautiful? Share your skills with others in a fun, hands-on session.
• Cooking classes: Show off your favourite recipes and cooking tips by hosting a small class. It’s a great way to share a meal and learn something new.
• Tech help: If you’re comfortable with gadgets or technology, offer to help others with phones, apps, or computers. It’s a practical way to support your neighbours.
• Gardening advice: Share tips on planting, growing herbs, or keeping flowers healthy. It’s a great way to make the community brighter and greener.

Bond over stories and talents:

• Open mic events: Organise a time for residents to share stories, poems, songs, or personal anecdotes. You’ll be amazed at the hidden talents in your community!
• Themed storytelling: Choose topics like travel adventures, childhood memories, or inspirational moments to make the sessions even more engaging and fun.

Whether you’re lending a hand, learning something new, or simply sharing a laugh, these small actions can make the winter months feel warmer. Not only will they lift your mood, but they’ll also bring neighbours closer together, creating a supportive and friendly environment for everyone.

At Hurst Court, residents have recently launched arts and crafts sessions to spark creativity and bring the community closer together. Every Wednesday, the lounge comes alive with laughter, chatter, and bursts of creativity.

These regular meet-ups are more than just a chance to create– they’re helping residents boost their mood, build connections, and find joy in shared experiences.

Activities like these are an important reminder of the power of connection and how small moments, shared with others, can lift spirits and brighten even the dullest of days.

Feeling safe at home is essential for everyone. There are many simple steps you can take to enhance your security and enjoy greater peace of mind. 

We want to share some simple and practical tips to help you safeguard your home. While it’s natural to feel safe within our courts, we strongly encourage you to keep your doors locked, just as you would in any other setting. 

Top tips for staying safe at home:

• Lock your door: Always lock your door, whether it’s daytime or nighttime, whether you’re at home, in communal areas, or out.
• Care support and door security: If you receive care, discuss locking your door between visits with your care team. A secure key safe can help them lock or unlock your property when needed.
• Store keys safely: Keep your keys in a safe, secure place to prevent loss or misuse. Report lost keys or key fobs to the management team straight away.
• Protect your valuables: Store valuable items like jewellery, documents, or cash in a safe, deposit box, or other secure location.
• Secure entry points: Don’t leave car keys or important documents near doors or windows. Keep them hidden and safe.
• Inform management when you’re away: Let the management team know if you’re going away on holiday or visiting others, so they’re aware of your absence.
• Use mail protection services: Register for the Royal Mail Keepsafe service to hold your post until you return home.
• Secure windows: Ensure your windows can be locked and closed properly. Window restrictors can add an extra layer of security.
• Report suspicious activity: If you see someone who seems out of place or suspicious, alert the on-site team or use your lifeline or pull cord to contact Appello.
• Check visitor ID: Always ask for identification from anyone visiting in a professional capacity.
• Be aware of tailgating: If you notice someone following you through a security door without permission, raise the issue with the management team. 

Taking these simple steps will help ensure your home remains safe and secure. 

Find out more about Royal Mail’s Keepsafe scheme: www.royalmail.com/receiving/keepsafe 

Register your valuable for free, and improve your chances of getting them back if they are lost or stolen with Immobilise: www.immobilise.com/ 

The Helping Hands Fund runs from April to March each year and is one-off grant available for residents to apply for when they are facing a financial crisis or are struggling with an unexpected cost. Since opening for applications in mid-2022, the fund has supported with supermarket vouchers, glasses and dental payments, vet bills, white goods and much more. 

Here’s some recent feedback from some scheme managers: 

“He was thrilled – he said that he’d never received anything like this before in his life, so thank you.” 

“Many Thanks for helping my resident, it is appreciated. This fund is so important for the residents, it’s a lifeline in a Crisis.” 

There are some eligibility requirements for example: 

• If you are in arrears with your rent or service charge account, you will need to set up a formal repayment plan with your scheme manager before making an application to Helping Hands. 

The quickest way to apply is via your scheme manager or the buddy manager if yours is unavailable. You can also email HelpingHands@Housing21.org.uk for more information.  

We’re pleased to invite you to the latest catch up over coffee webinar for Retirement Living residents. This is your chance to ask questions, share feedback, and stay up to date with the latest news and updates from Housing 21. Join us from the comfort of your home for an engaging and informative session. 

Date: Tuesday 18 February 

Time: 11:00 am 

Location: Online via Microsoft Teams 

Join the meeting online 

Meeting ID: 380 933 712 553 

Passcode: bN92hL3R 

How to join the webinar on a laptop or PC: 

You don’t need to download the Microsoft Teams app or create an account to take part. Simply follow these steps: 

1. Follow the link provided: Either click on the link or copy this into your internet browser. 
2. Choose “Continue on this browser”: If prompted, select this option instead of downloading the app. 
3. Enter your name: Type your name when asked, then click “Join now.” 
4. Join the meeting: You’ll be admitted to the webinar. 

Join on a mobile device:

If you're joining on a mobile phone or tablet then you may be required to download the Microsoft Teams app depending on your mobile device.

If this is the case, click 'Get Teams' and download the app. Following installation, you can select 'continue as guest' and enter a name. This will allow entry into the meeting.

If you have any questions or need help joining the webinar, please contact your scheme manager beforehand. We’re looking forward to catching up with you over coffee! 

We’re always looking for ways to improve how we communicate and connect with you. That’s why we’re inviting you to take part in our Resident Communications Survey 2025.

Your feedback is essential in helping us ensure our communications meet your needs and preferences. Whether it’s newsletters, letters, or updates on your scheme, we want to hear what’s working well and where we can do better.

The survey will take just 10-15 minutes to complete, and your input will play a key role in shaping the future of how we communicate with you.

Win a £50 Love2Shop Voucher:
As a thank-you for your time, at the end of the survey, you’ll have the chance to enter our prize draw to win one of two £50 Love2Shop vouchers.

How to Take Part:
You can take the survey online.

Alternatively, contact your Scheme Manager for a physical copy of the survey.

If you need any help accessing or completing the survey, please speak with your Scheme Manager.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and helping us improve – we look forward to hearing from you!