Choice invest £700,000 in Whitehouse Court
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Issue 10
Spring 2019
The Newsletter
for Choice Housing
Ireland Tenants
Choice invest £700,000
in Whitehouse Court
£3.6m Strand Rd. Scheme Good Neighbour Award New prize programme Gardening Competition
is officially opened Page 16 with Queen’s University Page 23
Page 7 Page 26
@Choice_Housing /ChoiceHousing
Tenants’ Forum News 18
How we’re Performing 25
Colouring in Competition 27
choice-housing.org
A message from Choice showcase £700k upgrade
our Group
Chief Executive of Newtownabbey Development
Michael McDonnell Choice has kicked off the New team joined residents to mark watchful eye of Choice building
Year celebrating an impressive the new and improved scheme surveyor, Chris Graham, work
renovation of an Edwardian and heard first-hand what began on the scheme in
Welcome to the Spring 2019 housing development in difference these new facilities November 2017.
Newtownabbey. Whitehouse will make to residents lives.
edition of Choice News. Court contained three buildings The original building was built
that collectively provided six Phase one of the development with distinctive red brick, which
There are significant Executive who as a publicly Existing Housing Benefit shared flats, one self-contained completed in 2015 and we were keen to preserve,
funded body is both the regional claimants will be directly
changes coming housing authority and a major affected by the full roll-out
flat and a laundry facility. comprised 24 apartments, maintaining the character of
with phase 2 now complete. the building, while modernising
to Supporting social landlord, and with the of Universal Credit which is The two original Edwardian Choice has provided a housing the interior.
People and through Department for Communities. scheduled to commence on a buildings were constructed offering of 36 apartments for
Welfare Reform. There are two important issues pilot basis in the UK in 2019. The in the early 1900’s and were those in need. Phase 2 focused A range of mechanical and
I am using my for tenants which are at the very cessation of welfare mitigation extensively refurbished during on the remodelling of existing electrical engineering works
heart of NIFHA’s campaigning payments across Northern
Welcome message activity at the moment – the Ireland is also expected in early
the 1980’s. shared accommodation were completed including all
into self-contained housing, electrics and plumbing within
in this edition of future of the Supporting 2020. Both of these significant The investment in the general providing residents with secure the buildings and the fitting
Choice News to raise People programme and Welfare changes are getting very close. needs scheme has led to a independent living. of new internal and external
awareness of how Reform. The Supporting Choice has a large number complete reconfiguration of the lighting, heating and fire alarm
People programme provides of tenants who are in receipt
they may impact 900 housing related support of supplementary payments
buildings, providing twelve new Spearheaded by Magherafelt systems.
apartments with self-contained contractor, Andrew Bradley
you. services across Northern Ireland. which compensate for the accommodation. The Choice Construction, and under the
This funding enables 30,000 impact of either the benefit
Many of you will know that there vulnerable people to continue to cap or the social sector size
are 20 housing associations live independently and thereby criteria (commonly referred
registered in Northern Ireland, reduce or remove pressures on to as the ‘bedroom tax’). My Michael McDonnell,
all of whom are not-for-profit the broader health and social housing colleagues have spent Group Chief Executive of Choice said:
charities. The sector provides care system. many months engaging with
around 40,000 homes for people those affected to discuss the “We are pleased to see the unveiling of this
and families on the social However, programme monies implications of the removal of impressive refurbishment project which has
housing waiting list across the have been frozen for over 8 years these ‘top ups’. involved a considerable amount of hard work and
country. Housing associations and then cut by 5% last year, at dedication, not just from the team at Choice but
have combined revenues of a time when demand for support I encourage each and every
over £200m per annum and from all our external partners and our residents.
is actually increasing. So can I tenant to either speak to your
employ more than 3,000 people. please encourage you to take housing officer or to visit the
It is estimated that the sector “It was very important to ensure that as
the opportunity to raise the Choice website to find out more
has 400+ voluntary board and importance of future funding about Welfare Reform. If it we modernised the development, the charm
committee members giving for Supporting People with doesn’t affect you directly, of the old building remained. Our partners,
their time freely to build thriving your community and political it may impact on a family Andrew Bradley Construction and Moore McDonald
communities. The Northern representatives. member or friend. & Partners clearly shared this vision, providing
Ireland Federation of Housing some creative and innovative modifications
Associations (NIFHA) acts as the Of equal concern for tenants I’d like to finish by saying that maintained the building’s history.”
umbrella body for our sector. should be the ongoing thanks for being a tenant
We work very closely with programme of Welfare Reform. of Choice.
the Northern Ireland Housing
Page 2 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 3
Welfare Changes - The introduction of Universal Credit is being carried out in two phases:
summary of changes to • Natural Migration phase – new benefit claims commencing from September 2017 - December 2018
• Managed migration – existing benefit claims were due to transfer to Universal Credit from July
the benefits system 2019 - March 2022 however, the government have announced this will be delayed in Northern
Ireland until 2020.
When will Universal Credit affect you?
All areas in Northern Ireland are live which means if you have a change in your circumstances this
Choice tenants will be aware Universal Credit began its introduction may trigger a move to Universal Credit. Examples of a change could be getting a new home and having
to apply for housing benefit for the first time, or having your first child and having to make a fresh claim
to Northern Ireland on 27th September 2017. Details of the new benefit for Child Tax Credits. As these benefits no longer exist for new claimants this could trigger a move to
are highlighted below for your information: Universal Credit.
Universal Credit is a single means-tested benefit for working-age people aged 18 to 64 years If you have a change in circumstances seek specialist advice as early as possible to avoid loss in
and is paid to each household. It will replace the following means-tested benefits: benefit entitlement.
• Income Support
Universal Credit is claimed online at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/claim-universal-credit-online
• Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance You will see references to local authority and councils. In Northern Ireland this means the Housing
• Child Tax Credits Executive, housing associations or Health and Social Care Trusts.
• Working Tax Credits
• Housing Benefit The housing element of your Universal Credit will be paid directly to your Landlord, the Housing
Executive, or your housing association. If the housing element you are awarded does not cover
if you are claiming with a partner, at the start of a claim you must choose whether payment is made to the full amount of your rent, you will need to pay the difference yourself.
one single account or whether to split payments across two accounts (there is no default option).
Claims for Universal Credit must be made online, and all subsequent contact regarding weekly rental Help with rates
charges will also be conducted online at www.nidirect.gov.uk/UniversalCredit Rates support is currently paid with Housing Benefit. When Universal Credit is introduced, a new Rate
Rebate system will replace the rates payment under Housing Benefit for new tenants.
It is important that you have the following information at hand before you start your claim:
• Your postcode When claiming Universal Credit, a new Rebates Rebate system has replaced the rates payment towards
• National Insurance Number the rates element of your weekly charge. Rates support for working age tenants receiving Universal Credit
• Tenant Reference number will be moving to a new Department of Finance ‘Rate Rebate’ scheme administered by Land and Property
• An email account Services (LPS).
• Details of the bank or building society you want Universal Credit paid into
• Details of your housing costs (rent) Applications for a rate rebate will have to be made separately from Universal Credit. Payments of Rate
• Your landlord’s details Rebate will also be made separately from Universal Credit. The application for Rate Rebate can be
• Details of your savings or other capital applied for on the same day you make your claim for Universal Credit. This is also an online application.
• Details of any income that’s not from work, for example, from an insurance plan
• Details of any other benefits you’re getting. When making the application, claimants will be asked six or seven questions online. If a Universal
Credit claim is cancelled, suspended or resumed, the Rate Rebate payments will be affected.
When you submit your claim you may be asked to provide more information. This information should
be provided within 1 calendar month to ensure your claim is processed. If it is not provided within
1 calendar month your claim may be cancelled. Once your claim is submitted log into your Universal
Credit portal regularly, check your to do list and your journal for notes from your job coach.
If you struggle with maintaining your account online, ask a family member to help or inform the Jobs
and Benefits office immediately. This will help with making sure your claim goes into payment.
Page 4 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 5
Housing Benefit and Supplementary Payments
Social Sector Size Criteria continues to change how Housing Benefit is calculated for some tenants, £3.6m Strand Road Scheme is
officially opened
based on sets of conditions. Social Sector Size Criteria is sometimes called the ‘Bedroom Tax’. You will
not be affected by Social Sector Size Criteria if:
• you live in supported accommodation
• you live in a houseboat, caravan or mobile home
Choice officially launched our Michael McDonnell, Group AMSON Consortium, a joint
• you live in a shared co-ownership scheme £3.6m upgrade of 126 Strand Chief Executive of Choice said: venture between local
• you live in temporary accommodation Road in Derry~Londonderry. “We believe in providing good construction firm AMS Ltd
quality housing to those who and Omagh-based O’Neill
You don’t need to claim the Welfare Supplementary Payment for Social Sector Size Criteria, if you The ambitious redevelopment need it and actively involving Electrics Ltd., undertook the
qualify for the payment, the Department for Communities (DfC) will pay it directly to your landlord. of the scheme, formerly known tenants in our plans. The refurbishment.
as Rock Mills, included the renovation work at 126 Strand
For those affected by the Benefit Cap, it is administered through a reduction in Housing Benefit remodelling of existing 86 Road is a fine example of what Located adjacent to the
and paid directly to your landlord until any transferal to Universal Credit. apartments to an increase of we are trying to achieve. It was junction of Strand Road and
94 new, modern, self-contained through consultation with our Rock Road, 126 Strand Road
Welfare Supplementary Payments for Benefit Cap and Social Sector Size Criteria will only be paid units - the three largest of tenants that the decision was overlooks the River Foyle
until 31 March 2020. which will each accommodate made to rename the scheme, and comprises the listed
families of 4. helping to express the new former Gilliland Flour Mills,
If you are concerned about transferring to or making an application for Universal Credit you can character of the development. constructed in 1846.
find more information: Working in collaboration
with the Department for The completion of this
Communities (DfC) and the scheme is great news for
• Speaking with your income recovery or housing officer. They can refer you to Choice’s in-house
Housing Executive, Choice its tenants and for the city Paul Price from the Department for
benefits advice team for help and support. transformed the building which as a whole, particularly Communities said:
• Visiting the Welfare Changes website: www.nidirect.gov.uk/Universal Credit. started in November 2016. given the need for quality
• Contacting the Universal Credit telephone service: 0300 123 3017(8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday) This marks a new chapter accessible social housing in the “The refurbishment of
• Calling charges £0.10/minute from a landline and £0.03 to £0.55/minute from a mobile. for the scheme and for its Derry~Londonderry area. this development was
• Contacting Choice Services Centre: 0300 111 2211 or email: Choice Services Centre: residents, bringing the very best essential to ensuring
enquiries@choice-housing.org standards and latest energy The renovation project included its long term future
• Visiting Choice’s website: www.choice-housing.org saving technologies into the an overhaul of all electrics and as a social housing
• If you need help getting online your Jobs and Benefits Office or local library can provide support. historic building. It is one of plumbing within the building provision for the
• Find out where to get support at: www.gov.uk or choice-housing.org the largest housing renovation and the fitting of new kitchens
Derry~Londonderry
and refurbishment projects and bathrooms throughout,
undertaken in the city and will as well as a number of other area. The scheme has
If you have a disability and need an overnight carer you may be entitled to an additional room to help
radically enhance the area. upgrades. In April 2017, the made a significant
with your disabilities. This may also be the case if a child with disabilities cannot share with another
household member as they need their own room. first wave of new tenants contribution to Northern
moved in, with remaining Ireland’s Social
tenants taking up residency Housing Development
in their homes in August 2018 programme, with £570k
ahead of its official opening. of the project’s capital
You can download The Benefit Cap
funding comprising
our information
Social Sector Size Criteria
(Bedroom Tax) Personal Indepe
Payment (PIP
)
ndence DfC Housing Association
Grant”.
leaflets
from our website now
choice-housing.org
Working
together for
positive change
Working
together for Working
positive change together for nge choice-housin
g.org
positive cha
choice-housing.org
rg
choice-housing.o
Welfare Change Leaflet (Bedroom Tax).indd 1 27/04/2017 14:45
Page 6 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 7
Seven schemes mark milestone Choice joins partners in officially
anniversaries! opening £3.5m Greenisland House
Autumn/Winter has been an incredibly busy A new £3.5m supported The scheme is located along the For our residents, this is
20th anniversary at period for our sheltered living schemes, with housing scheme – Greenisland shoreline close to Carrickfergus, invaluable, particularly those who
Donal Casey Court,
Derry~Londonderry seven schemes marking 20th, 25th and 35th House, close to Newtownabbey Greenisland and Newtownabbey, are dealing with mild levels of
anniversaries. As you can imagine there was officially opened by the providing local residents easy dementia. Knowing someone is
have been plenty of parties which provided Department for Communities. access to a range of local there when he or she needs them
an opportunity to reconnect with friends and amenities, including shops and can be the comfort they need.”
The project, which is a
former colleagues. medical facilities all linked by
partnership, between the Greenisland House will
main public transport.
Department for Communities, accommodate older people,
35th anniversary Choice Housing Ireland, the Michael McDonnell, Group including those with mild to
at Elm Court, Northern Health and Social Chief Executive of Choice said: moderate dementia and mental
Belfast Care Trust, Triangle Housing “This scheme is testament to health problems, offering a
Association and the Housing the collaborative working that balance between independent
35th anniversary Executive provides 32 supported we are committed to, ensuring living and a safe support network
at Lisnamon Court & living apartments, with a mix we address the growing need for when required. Housing Support
25th anniversary at of 1 and 2 bedrooms. staff will be available daily by
Nora Frazer Court, social housing across the region.
Derry~Londonderry Triangle Housing Association,
The Housing Executive nominated
This partnership between housing with care provided via a
Choice to work in partnership
and healthcare professionals Domiciliary Care package.
with the Northern Health
and Social Care Trust and the demonstrates how closely the Work on the scheme began in
Supporting People Programme two areas are connected. March 2015, and was carried
to develop the scheme for older “Greenisland House provides out by MJ McBride Contractors,
people in November 2012. the right balance between safe, and RPP Architects. The former
35th anniversary secure living and independence. Greenisland House, which was
at Lisnavar Court,
Derry~Londonderry
demolished, previously occupied
30th anniversary the site. The construction period
at Cabin Hill Court,
Belfast took 18 months.
Conrad Murphy, from the
Department for Communities,
officially unveiled the scheme.
Conrad commented:
An opportunity to reconnect with
“This scheme illustrates that it is possible
friends and former colleagues 25th anniversary at Lowtherstown Court,
Irvinestown to provide a safe, homely environment for
older people who require some additional
Our sheltered living schemes make a vital support yet enables them to continue to
retain their independence and dignity. It
Scheme
contribution to their communities while at
es
will enable residents to lead meaningful and
i
the same time striking the balance between
sa r active lives in the community and to feel
iver
secure living and an independence that
Ann
comes with the availability of amenities safe and secure. It offers independent
that these schemes offer. living in a self-contained supported
accommodation setting.”
Page 8 choice-housing.org Page 9
choice-housing.org Page 9
choice-housing.org
Work Choice Tenant The Big Market
Employment Programme
Choice and Bryson a full-time salary during The six-month programme
FutureSkills have renewed their involvement with the is just the starting point,
their commitment to boosting programme. providing participants with
employment opportunities in the foundation to continue to
Northern Ireland, announcing Lawrence Jackson, develop their own employment
the second year of their skills Choice Group Director of and learning prospects.
and employment programme – Organisational Young Enterprise is a local Congratulations to all the Company Programme runners
WorkChoice 2018. Development said: Cathy Wilson, Bryson charity which develops the young entrepreneurs, below up – Wallace High School &
“WorkChoice is designed to FutureSkills Employment skills of young people and is a list of all the winners Friends School Lisburn
First launched in 2016, propel participants towards and Development Manager ensures they leave education and runners up: Company Programme winner –
the programme aimed at sustainable employment, added; “WorkChoice has been prepared for work and life. On Quick Start runner up – Glenlola Collegiate School
upskilling people dealing with further education or training a success in helping people 5th December Young Enterprise Assumption Grammar School
unemployment in a range of by providing practical gain training and new skills student companies from
schools across Northern Ireland Quick Start winner - Lawrence Jackson, Group Director of
disciplines, with the ultimate work-based and accredited which are essential to help Organisational Development
took over St George’s market Assumption Grammar School
aim of gaining long-term learning that are aligned with them find their way back from Choice added:
employment. individual aspirations. into the workplace; we are and literally set out their stalls Business Beginnings winner
delighted that this initiative at the Big Market, showcasing - St Brigid’s Primary School “It has been exciting to be part of
their talents, wares and ideas. Brocagh Young Enterprise and help young
The first phase of the “Experience is important is continuing and more people people engage in business and
WorkChoice 2018 programme for anyone seeking to are benefitting from it.” Team Programme runner up – entrepreneurship. We want to
saw seven participants, secure employment and the Choice is proud to have
Jordanstown Special School encourage young people to consider
including Choice tenants, programme not only provides “The participants will leave sponsored this important their career path and nurture their
receive ‘hands-on’ experience this but allows participants the programme with an OCN initiative, which engages Team Programme winner – ambitions. Building strong and
within Choice, in areas such to work in an area that they Award in Employability Level over 600 young people, aged Killard House School resilient communities is just as
between 14 and 19. Lawrence important to Choice as providing
as; Property Services, Finance, would like to develop into a 2 from Bryson FutureSkills, Start Up Programme runner up
Jackson, Group Director of high quality homes. That’s why,
ICT and the Services Centre. career. We are pleased to be as well as transferable – Ulster University Coleraine across Northern Ireland, we’re
As part of the programme, collaborating with Bryson work skills and invaluable Organisational Development at
Start Up winner – supporting individuals and groups
participants get the chance FutureSkills on this project experience gained from Choice enjoyed participating to enhance their skills and prospects
on the judging panel to find the Ulster University Magee for long-term prosperity.”
to study towards a recognised and I look forward to seeing working as an integral part
OCN Award in Employability the positive impact it will of a team”. best trading company at the
level 2 through Bryson have on those taking part”. Big Market.
FutureSkills. They also receive
Page 10 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 11
Giving a Choice to Those with no Home: Aughrim Court
Choice and Simon Community work together to build futures Amazing Spaces
Choice and Simon Community financial backing to enter the Through Choice’s investment
NI have partnered to better private rented sector and live of £10,000, the service provides
tackle homelessness through independently and happily. housing clinics across six
a new Tenancy Sustainment Simon Community NI projects
Service. As part of the service, support with a dedicated Tenancy
workers and team leaders from Liaison Officer operating across
Homelessness has risen by Simon Community regularly Northern Ireland. To date, the
a staggering 32% over the work with clients and identify scheme has allowed three
last five years and this new those individuals and families individuals to move into private
service, partially funded by who are ‘tenancy ready’ but do rented properties with a further
Choice, aims to help the most not have the means to afford four clients currently waiting
vulnerable in society, providing a private sector deposit or the to find a suitable property to
them with the expertise and first month’s rent. match their individual needs.
Louise Davies has been involved in the scheme with Choice and the Simon Community.
Overcoming addiction issues and poor mental health after the death of her mother, Louise
has praised the Tenancy Sustainment Service. Working with a team of dedicated support workers,
she was able to get her life back on track.
Since June 2018 tenants With funding from Choice and
Steve Camillare tenant at
at Aughrim Court, Kilkeel, a small grant from Live Here
Aughrim Court said:
Speaking about her journey, Louise said: have been working with Love Here the space has been
“Working with Simon Community saved my life. I wouldn’t be alive today and have community partners to transformed and now includes “The garden project helps
this beautiful house, if it wasn’t for them. I have never known kindness like it. I went improve the garden at the a wildflower garden which everyone here. My doctor
through a really difficult stage in my life and found myself at rock bottom. This scheme and make it an has been designed to attract said it’s is a great idea and
service has been instrumental in helping turn my life around. I’ve went from complete amazing space for everyone. butterflies and bees with very therapeutic. It is not just
vibrant colours and scents. the flowers that grow in the
darkness to actually living my life. garden it is the friendships and
Staff from Choice and the
tenants at Aughrim Court Another area has been named feeling of belonging. There is
The world needs selfless people like those in the Simon Community to continue to help a sense of pride and self worth
and they need support from companies such as Choice to provide the required funding have worked with a number the Garden of Tranquillity - a for everyone who is involved.
to allow them to continue the lifesaving work they do. of partners and not for profit quiet space to sit and reflect It is great to see everyone
groups to make the most of with a range of scented herbs doing their bit and every day
their space and resources, and a water feature. someone will bring visitors to
Thanks to Simon Community, I’ve overcome my demons.
including Newry Street Unite, the garden to have a look. We
Without Choice’s investment into the scheme, I would are all grateful for the chance to
Mourne Stimulus, Mourne
not have been able to afford the security deposit Grange, Jim’s Youth Group have a garden that helps make
for my new home.” and others. this our home.”
“We know that the best way to break the cycle of
Joan Maginn tenant at Aughrim Court said:
homelessness is to help people find and move into
a home for the long term. At a time when social “Being part of the garden group has helped my mental health
housing waiting lists are growing and demand and given me a sense of purpose taking a lead role in the front
for temporary accommodation rising, the private garden and planning and designing our new gardens.”
rented sector is an increasingly important source
of housing for people moving out of hostels.”
Jim Dennison, Simon Community NI’s Chief Executive
Page 12 ending homelessness Page 13
Energy Week 2018
(5th - 9th November 2018) How to Report a Repair
In the run up to Energy Week 2018, we provided We have also made presentations at each of our Choice provides a 24-hour service operating 365 During normal working hours, 9am – 5pm Monday
information around Oil Buying Clubs throughout Regional Tenants’ Forums to highlight the work days a year to report repairs. To report a repair, – Friday, all calls will be answered by Choice staff
Northern Ireland to tenants who may be able to of our Energy Management Team and provide call Choice Services Centre on 0300 111 2211 who will assist with any queries. Outside these
benefit from this initiative in their area. Letters advice on tackling fuel poverty in Northern or email Choice at repairs@choice-housing.org hours, calls will divert to a third party monitoring
were posted to over 370 homes advising of the Ireland. centre (including Bank Holidays) who will only
benefits of being part of an Oil Buying Club and All repairs can be reported to Choice Service deal with emergency repairs.
directing tenants to the appropriate bodies who During Energy Week our colleagues provided Centre. If you live in a staffed scheme such as
can provide further information. information on various initiatives, including sheltered housing, you can report repairs to Information and guidance is available in the
energy contracts, energy saving tips around the scheme staff. Repairs Handbook and on our website.
Information was provided on our website, at home and benefits entitlement.
our sheltered living schemes and via our social Before reporting a repair, please consider Please be aware of the following:
media channels throughout the week, to advise As part of our engagement with staff we held the following: • Our contractors carry identity cards which
our tenants on 3 different ways to tackle fuel a “Fastest Lap Challenge”, with staff cycling to • Have as much detail as possible of the you should check when they arrive.
poverty – energy saving tips around the home, power cars on a scalextric track. This enabled us repair required as we will ask various •A
responsible adult must be at home when
switching energy suppliers and having benefits to promote our cycle-to-work scheme, highlight questions about the repair. the repair is being completed.
checks carried out. the concept of generating electricity and also
• Advise us of any access restrictions or • Let us know as soon as possible if you cannot
encourage staff engagement.
difficulties. keep an appointment.
• Let us know your name, address and current • Our contractors are required to adhere to a
contact number. code of behaviour with high standards of
• Let us know of any special circumstances that courtesy and professionalism. In turn, we expect
need to be taken into account. tenants to be courteous to our contractors.
• Let us know if the repair relates to something • Our contractors need access to the problem.
that was recently repaired or replaced. You are expected to remove delicate items
• Let us know if any other repairs are required and valuables from the immediate area.
and if any repairs, previously reported, are • We will make a charge if the repair relates to
overdue or not completed to a satisfactory an issue for which you are responsible or if you
standard. exaggerate the urgency of the problem. If
you are
not satisfied
Category Time frame Repair Need with your
se ice, please
rv
Immediate- within To be commenced • Where there is a clear, immediate risk to the occupant, let us know.
normal working hours immediately and attend public or property.
no later than 2 hours and • Examples include total loss of heating in winter or there is a
completed or made safe significant vulnerability, total loss of power or exposed live electric
within 4 hours parts, major leaks, to secure a property or major structural risk
or damage to the property.
Emergency To be made safe and/or • The circumstances will be similar to ‘Immediate’ above but where
completed within 24 hours the risks are less severe such as blocked WC where there is only
one WC available, partial loss of heating in winter or full loss of
heating where there are no significant vulnerabilities.
Urgent To be completed within • Work to prevent damage to the property, to overcome serious
4 working days inconvenience to the occupant or where there is a possible health,
safety or security risk.
Routine To be completed within • For work where the fault or failure does not cause immediate
28 calendar days inconvenience or danger to the occupants or the public.
Page 14 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 15
The Muriel Smyth Our Ambitious
Good Neighbour Award 2018 Development Plans
Mr Tony Black, from The Silvergrove in Belfast,
has been awarded the 2018 Muriel Smyth Good Choice brought together stakeholders,
Neighbour Award. developers and partners from across Northern
Ireland to set out our ambitious development
Mr Black was nominated by many of his plans to 2021.
neighbours who feel that he truly encourages The growth of
a sense of community within the scheme and As a leading housing provider at the forefront the Choice Group
in the provision of social housing, Choice is Companies is
is a great example of a good neighbour.
committed to delivering quality housing, the result of
which enhances the community. ambition and the
Mr Black always helps out around the scheme relentless pursuit
setting up bingo and getting the papers for The need for decent, affordable housing and of development
other tenants. One nomination read, “Tony is support services continues to grow, establishing opportunities in areas where it is needed most.
a wonderful neighbour to have, always ready and creating effective relationships with Maple and May, Choice’s profit-for-purpose
with a joke or some banter which provides a developers and partner organisations will company, is delivering new affordable homes for
lovely, happy atmosphere here”. enable Choice to leverage skills and resources rent or purchase across Northern Ireland.
to maximise the benefits for those in need.
Through widening the scope, Maple and May
When the news broke at the scheme that
Niall Sheridan, Group Director of Development offers greater freedom and the flexibility to
Mr Black was to receive the award there were & Assets, laid out the ambitious strategy to tenants to move if their needs change. The
immediate celebrations and shouts of joy! Congratulations Mr Black on a 2021 and Choice’s vision ‘to be recognised as the strategic partnership between Choice and
well-deserved award. leading housing association group in Ireland’. Oaklee Housing is playing an active role in
Investing our experience and working with tackling an increasingly urgent lack of homes in
others will help Choice to shape new standards Ireland and is contributing to the step change
to develop more high quality dwellings. required in the delivering of more social and
Best Kept Garden affordable accommodation.
Competition 2018
Congratulations to Choice is actively
seeking development
Pound Green Court! opportunities. If you
would be interested in
discussing a suitable site
Pound Green Court in Larne, have won the 2018 for both the affordable
Best Kept Garden Award. Mr Thomas Crawford and private markets, or
o n e
nominated the scheme, and provided many learn more about our
Well d
beautiful images of the flowers, plants and shrubs ambitious development
that make up such an inviting garden which all programme, please
the tenants and visitors to the scheme enjoy. contact a member of our
Development Team on
0300 111 2211.
!
The judging panel were overwhelmed with the
e r y o n e
quality and number of entries this year but
ev
the display at Pound Green court won them
over on the day. Well done to everyone at
Pound Green Court!
Page 16 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 17
TENANTS’ FORUM
Community
Champions
over the years to ensure there is Community Champions are neighbourhood
a strong independent Tenants’ volunteers, they are the tenants in our blocks
Forum for the future. Bill has of apartments or estates within our general
shown leadership and made a
needs housing whose commitment and
strong commitment to Choice as
dedication is to improving the
Chair of the Forum, for which we
are very grateful.” neighbourhoods in which they live.
Claire Darby, Tenant Involvement We are always on the look out for people to
Champion become Community Champions. If you know
“Bill’s enthusiasm is something someone who is interested in volunteering
As of April 2019, Mr Bill Jeffrey is possible co-operation with we have all grown to rely on. for their community and would like to put
stepping down from his position Choice.” He always shows up ready to themselves forward to be considered, or if
as Choice Tenants’ Forum contribute, and is never shy YOU are interested please contact the Tenant
Chairman. Bill is a man who can During Bill’s time as Chair, Choice about new ideas or giving Involvement Team on: 0300 111 2211 • Work closely with staff and develop
wear many hats, he is a keen star has been through many changes, constructive criticism. Bill has
gazer, photographer and actor. his stewardship of the Forum has relationships.
served as Chair of the Forum with • Community Champions will benefit from
He also enjoys social networking, offered continuity through the dedication and always has his • Support and help signpost tenants to obtain
current and political affairs, and amalgamations, considerable training and ongoing support from Choice
fellow tenants at the front of staff. the correct agency needed for their required
is a regular freelance contributor organisational growth and wider his mind.” support.
for BBC and print media. Bill is contexts such as welfare reform. • Improve their skillset and develop their
the owner of The Wordsmith’s Rita Murray, Tenants’ confidence. • Help improve your neighbourhood and
Forge and has been a Committee As Chair of the Tenants’ Forum, Forum Member provide support within your community.
member of the John Hewitt Bill has served as the link • Be more aware of Housing and the policies
Society since 2005. He also between the Forum, the Group “It has been very reassuring within Choice that govern what a Landlord WE WANT YOU TO BECOME INVOLVED AND
holds a post graduate diploma Chief Executive and Group to have Bill as Chair of our can do. MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY
in marketing. Director of Tenant & Client Forum for the past 9 years.
Services. The Chair of the He has always treated the
With such a wide range of Forum is there to ensure the role with professionalism.
knowledge and skills, Bill has tenants’ voice is loud and clear, As a fellow tenant, I have
been an instrumental member
of the Tenants’ Forum for 12
being heard across the entire
organisation. The Chair of the
watched him speak up for
tenants at meetings and he Fire Safety at Home
years, and Chair of the Forum Forum must communicate always did his best to ensure
for 9 years. He was a Board openly and effectively including Choice understand our ideas At Choice we work closely with our tenants to
Member from 2009-2013 and sat at Committee and Board level. and concerns. I am always ensure our homes are safe and well maintained.
on the Tenant & Client Services Bill has also been a tremendous impressed with his enthusiasm This maintenance is a shared responsibility
Committee within Choice. ambassador for Choice and the for this role, he certainly between landlord and tenant. There are simple
Tenants’ Forum on outside bodies encouraged a lot of us to get steps you can take to protect against fire.
Bill is a passionate advocate such as Cancer Focus, Live Here involved. Bill will be a hard act to
on the importance of tenant Love Here and at many official follow and I know many of us will
Our Fire Safety leaflet contains everything you
participation, functions. miss him, so on behalf of all the
need to know to keep your home safe. You can
Forum members and the tenants
in general I would like to extend download a copy of the fire
“I believe implicitly that a Carol Ervine, Group Director If there’s a fire: safety leaflet from our
strong, independent Tenants’ of Tenant & Client Services our thanks for a job well done.”
website choice-housing.org
Forum is the best way to protect
“Bill has worked closely with our or call 0300 111 2211
and develop tenants’ interests
Tenant Involvement Team
All the staff at Choice thank
Bill for his dedicated service
Get out, stay out, to request a copy.
in conjunction with the closest
to the Tenants’ Forum.
and call 999.
Page 18 choice-housing.org choice-housing.orgTENANTS’ FORUM
Listening
Get Involved Informing
with Choice,
Choice Housing have your say!
Officers complete
accredited training Working
Together
Choice are working with Supporting “As an organisation with 40 years’ experience
Communities (Independent Tenant working with tenants we are passionate about
Organisation) to provide training specifically tenant engagement and how important it
aimed at our Housing Officers highlighting is that social landlords fully embrace it in a
and reinforcing the benefits of involving truly meaningful way. To that end, Tenant
tenants. The OCN Level 2 accredited Tenant Participation must be embedded in the very Responding
Participation & Community Development DNA of the organisation at every level, and is
course was delivered over 4 days to 30 not solely the responsibility of housing officers,
Housing Officers who fully participated everyone in the organisation has a role to play.
and engaged in lively discussions around Supporting Communities is delighted that Choice
the practicalities and benefits of working has invested in this training as it demonstrates
in partnership with tenants to constantly a clear commitment to putting tenants at the
strive for improvements in service delivery. heart of everything. Choice has a very ambitious
As it was an accredited course all staff had a Tenant Involvement Strategy and Action
number of exercises to complete including Plan that can only be delivered by working in If you’re interested
two assignments. The assignments were partnership; staff, board members and tenants please contact the
completed by the participants in their own all working for the one goal.” Tenant Involvement
time and feedback from the course tutors Team on:
was very positive. If you are interested in getting involved, please
check out our Menu of Involvement on our
T: 0300 111 2211
Sheenagh Mc Nally Head of Corporate website www.choice-housing.org choice-housing.org
Services, Supporting Communities, stated: or contact your Housing Officer on
0300 111 2211
Page 20 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 21The Muriel Smyth Best Kept Garden
Good Neighbour Award 2019 Competition 2019
To assist you in your nominations here are a few guidelines of what the judges
will be looking for: Green-fingered tenants are
The Muriel Smyth Good Neighbour Award will be judged by a panel made up of Board Members, Staff
and Tenants’ Forum Representatives. You can nominate your neighbour by completing and returning being urged to ‘grow for it’
the attached entry form. If you are unable to complete the form or require assistance, please contact
the Services Centre on 0300 111 2211, who will be pleased to help.
as part of the annual Choice
gardening competition.
• Have they helped you out at a time of crisis • More than one person can be listed as
or are they a good neighbour all the time? nominator, however, anonymous
nominations will not be accepted. Calling all keen gardeners! To the green fingered
• Do they help you with your garden or do among you or your friends and neighbours, it’s time
the shopping for you when you can’t? • Listing the special qualities that are the to remind you of the annual Choice Best Kept Garden
reasons for nomination of the person Award. You can nominate your own or another
• Perhaps they have looked after your concerned will assist in the judging.
children so you can have a break or even tenant’s garden, or a scheme garden providing it is
go to work? Ts & Cs apply. tended by the tenant and not Choice contractors.
If you wish to submit an entry please complete
• Maybe they’ve just been there when and return the information slip plus photo(s)
you needed someone to talk to?
of the nominated garden by
• The person nominated and the nominator Friday 30th August 2019
must both be tenants of Choice.
to the Editor,
Choice News Please be advised that this competition is open to
FREEPOST BEL2371, Choice tenants only.
Belfast BT1 6BR.
Ts & Cs apply.
The Muriel Smyth Good Neighbour Award 2019 Best Kept Garden Competition 2019
Your details Nominee Detail Your details Nominee Detail (if different)
Name: Name:
Name: Name:
Address: Address:
Address: Address:
Tel: Tel:
Telephone No: Telephone No:
All nominations should
Reasons for nomination: be forwarded to: Email: Email:
Marketing Officer,
Choice
FREEPOST BEL2371,
Belfast BT1 6BR
by 12 noon on
Friday 30th August 2019
choice-housing.org Page 23How we’re performing
Choice are at the forefront in the provision of social housing and
are committed to delivering quality housing and excellent customer
services that enhance the lives of customers and communities.
It is important that your voice, in relation to our services, is heard as the feedback that we
receive is vital for Choice to identify and correct any problems within our service delivery
and to ensure that we meet the needs of all our customers.
Gas Safety Repairs
Target Target
100% 90%
100% 92.10%
Units with valid Average repairs
gas certificate completion
Anti-social Behaviour
Support for our customers Customer Enquiries
Choice appointed Insec Please note the following: • Tenants living in sheltered Target Target
Security to provide assistance housing schemes should 87% 34
to tenants whenever problems • This service is only
are encountered in relation to available to Choice
continue to report all cases
of ASB directly to their
86.4% 13.8
Anti-social Behaviour (ASB). tenants outside Scheme Co-ordinator or
This may include problems office hours. to the Services Centre on
with excessive noise or 0300 111 2211, during
threatening behaviour. normal office hours.
• Tenants should continue CSC satisfaction Complaints
to report all cases of ASB overall service (days, combined stages)
to the Services Centre on • Insec Security will only
Insec Security 0300 111 2211, during visit the person who is
normal office hours. causing the ASB. Insec will Human Resources
028 9020 0080 not visit the tenant making
It is important
• Any tenant who has the complaint. This process
concerns for their own is to ensure confidentiality Target
that your voice,
safety, or believes that a is maintained. 8% in relation to our
crime has been committed, services, is heard.
should contact the PSNI. Please contact the
Association if you require
further information 3.35%
regarding this service. Absenteeism (days)
The performance figures are for the period April 2018 - February 2019
Page 24 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 25✂
CHILDREN’S COLOURING COMPETITION
New prize Open to children 16 years and under
programme with Under the Sea
Queen’s University
Belfast
Choice has launched an exciting new prize in The Pathway Opportunity Programme aims to
partnership with Queen’s University Belfast increase the number of students from under-
to help transform the lives of people across represented groups who will go on to study at
Northern Ireland. Queen’s. The Programme is for talented young
people from Northern Ireland who have the
The prizes, one in each faculty, will provide academic ability to study at Queen’s but who may
financial support to students who have require additional support and encouragement to
participated in either the Pathway Opportunity reach their full potential.
Programme or Senior Academy Programme, key
Queen’s initiatives delivered by the University’s The Senior Academy Programme raises awareness
Widening Participation Unit. of higher education in primary and post-primary
pupils by developing their academic skills and
Established in 2013, the Widening Participation supporting attainment. Specifically targeting
Unit at Queen’s comprises the Junior Academy, pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, these
the Senior Academy and, more recently, the programmes are open to all and provide insights
Pathway Opportunity Programme. Widening into university life.
Participation students at Queen’s include
young people who are in secondary education
and colleges, students who have disabilities, Michael McDonnell, Group Chief Executive of Choice said:
care leavers or adult learners. Programmes “We are very pleased to announce this
such as the Senior Academy and the Pathway partnership with Queen’s who are leading the
Opportunity Programme target young people way in providing opportunities to study for
who have the ability to attend university those who may find prospects not as readily
available.
It’s really easy to enter, just pull out this page and POST TO:
but who are least likely to progress to higher
education, and provides support to enable
colour it in anyway you like! Then pop it in the post The Editor,
them to fulfil their potential. “Encouragement and confidence play a along with your name, age, address and telephone Choice News,
big part in academic achievement and number in the reply slip below to The Editor, Choice FREEPOST BEL2371
The Choice prizes have been established to everyone, regardless of their background News, FREEPOST BEL2371 Belfast BT1 6BR. One lucky Belfast BT1 6BR
support and motivate students from Widening or circumstances, should have the same winner will receive this great prize! Entries must be
Participation backgrounds to achieve academic foundation on which to grow and develop. received by Friday 14th June 2019. (Please note that
excellence and to complete their studies. the parent must be a tenant of Choice Housing Ireland). Win a
The prizes will be awarded to the Pathway
Opportunity Programme or Senior Academy
“The Widening Participation Unit at Queen’s
Ts & Cs apply. family pass
has worked with a wide range of young
students, one from each of the University’s people, teachers, schools, colleges and to Movie
faculties, who achieve the highest overall mark parents to raise the profile of opportunities
Name Age
House!
in Level 1, and who will be continuing to Level 2. open to those who want to achieve academic
success. We hope that through these
prizes, we can help recipients to succeed Address
in the future and create stronger inclusive
communities.” Daytime Telephone Evening Telephone
Page 26 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 27
choice-housing.org Page 27Out &
About
Choice is made up of
Men in Sheds Breakfast Morning
over 10,000 tenants,
at the Oaks
more than 300 Choice, through the T:buc
staff and numerous Strategy, have partnered with The Oaks Portadown had
partners and Rowallane Hub Men’s Shed. a great turnout at their
This partnership gives tenants breakfast morning, our
stakeholders; so it’s at Manse Court, Saintfield sheltered living scheme
no surprise that there the group also helps members a Choice T:buc scheme, the served up hot tea, coffee and
is always plenty of find a “new normal”. The group opportunity to participate in traditional Ulster fry delights.
Medway Court has had days out and recently the project and the activities Elizabeth turns 101!
activity going on in Friendship Group members travelled to Ayr for the Rowallane Hub Men’s
all the communities two days. At the November Shed offer. Happy birthday to our tenant
we support. The death of someone we meeting, members from the Mrs Elizabeth Mansbridge
Ulster
love can bring strangers into Lisburn Friendship Group came The shed is a place where from Ellis Court in Belfast who
our lives who then become to Medway Court to enjoy lunch they can come together turned 101 years young!
Read our Out & About
Fry
our friends because we find provided by the groups’ joint to have fun, share skills
section and don’t someone who understands committee. and knowledge and gain a Elizabeth enjoyed a wonderful
forget to let how we are feeling and how renewed sense of purpose and party at the sheltered living
us know about the grief is affecting us. The group meets on the first belonging. We are excited to delight scheme with her friends,
Wednesday of every month see this group come together family and Choice staff.
your events! This is evident at the from 11 am to 1 pm. and even more excited to
Friendship Group which is hear what projects they
held at our sheltered living If you would like further will take on.
scheme, Medway Court, information, please contact
Belfast. It was formed under Eleanor on 028 9079 2419
Contact us at: the Beyond Words Project or email: in the Charity Category
at Cruse Bereavement Care eleanor.ellerslie@cruse.org.uk against 12 other Charities.
editor@choice-housing.org Choice Highly
NI. Beyond Words was a
Commended as an
partnership between Cruse The judges rated Choice’s
Employer for Childcare
and Stroke Association NI. tangible examples of what
they are doing currently
Choice were nominated at the
and their future plans for
Make
The Medway Court Friendship
recent Employer for Childcare
Group was set up in May 2017. progression. They also
Awards Ceremony in Galgorm
demonstrated evidence of
The group provides a safe
environment for members
new Resort & Spa, Ballymena.
responsiveness and genuine
flexibility in accommodating
to come along, share
experiences and make new
friends A few members of the HR
team attended the ceremony
staff requests for family
friendly working.
and were delighted to be
friends. More importantly,
awarded Highly Commended
Page 28 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 29Out &
About Family
The first rule about
knitting circle….
Fun Day Elm Court, Belfast, host a
very well attended Knitting
Circle each week. On Thursday
evenings tenants come
Street Soccer NI return together to create new pieces
from a successful and share stories.
Homeless World Cup in Colouring Competition
Mexico The group are working hard Winner
to prepare for an upcoming
In November Street Soccer market at which they are Congratulations to Jamie
attended the Homeless World sharing a stall with the Henderson from Ainsworth
Cup in Mexico City which Donegall Pass Community Avenue, Belfast, winner of
was their 6th World Cup Garden Project. the colouring competition.
adventure. They brought a 6 year old Jamie impressed
homeless men’s team and the judges with his artistic
Choice Christmas card flare, adding glitter, gems,
women’s team away for the
Competition 2018 and fluffy cotton wool to his
10-day trip.
CAIRNMARTIN COMMUNITY masterpiece.
In December 2018, Christmas
FAMILY FUN DAY IN The men finished 29th overall
Card Competition winner, Jamie received a family pass
ASSOCIATION WITH H.A.I.P in the tournament with the
Moyra Blayney was presented to W5 from Housing Officer,
women finishing 14th in their
with a £100 shopping voucher. Courtney Watton. We hope
Choice brought together the competition. To top off a
With so many incredible the family enjoy their day
residents of Cairnmartin great 10 days in the sun they
designs it was not easy to out!
Road, Belfast, for a picked up two awards, one for
choose an overall winner, but
Community Family Fun Day, Best Female Coaches and one
the dramatic snowy mountain
aimed at promoting good for Best Female Player which
artwork really stood out and
relations across housing Kiera Moss picked up after
caught the eye of the judges,
who agreed that it was a
associations in NI as part
of the H.A.I.P Project. As an
scoring an incredible 35 goals.
W5
FAMILY
worthy winner of the Choice
intergenerational event, the
Christmas Card competition
tenants and families enjoyed
of 2018.
lots of fun, with a lively Disco
Bus, Bouncy Castle, Face
PASS
Staff joined Moyra to
celebrate the presentation.
Painting, Refreshments, and Proud to International Day of Older Persons WINNER!
a Barbecue, with assistance
We would like to say a big
from the ladies of the
Twaddell Women’s Group.
sponsor Choice supported International Day of Older Persons by
celebrating older people and the positive impact they have
well done to all our wonderful on our communities. Some of our sheltered living schemes
entries and congratulations took part in the celebrations including; Castlerocklands,
once again to Moyra! Carrickfergus, Westbridge House, Enniskillen, Ashley Lodge,
Belfast, Lowtherstown Court, Irvinestown and Donal Casey
Court, Derry~Londonderry. You can find out more on what fun
and laughter the tenants had on our social media channels.
Page 30 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 31Out &
About Short trip to
Short Cross
GAMES NIGHT
People of all ages enjoyed
Tenants from Elmgrove a fun filled games night
A FUN
Manor, Belfast recently at Lowtherstown Court
visited the famous in Irvinestown.
ShortCross gin distillery in
Crossgar.
Get Connected Graduation
Games night provides a FILLED
NIGHT!
Choice was delighted to support wonderful opportunity for
Cedar Court Tenant tenants to come together to
Tenants were delighted BT Connect and Supporting
Committee enjoy games which can be
to visit Rademon Estate Communities to deliver a ten
Distillery, home to the most week Digital Inclusion course at adapted to suit a wide range
Cedar Court in Downpatrick of physical limitations.
awarded gin on the island of Leonard Cheshire Taylor House
is a purpose-built facility in Belfast.
Ireland, ShortCross Gin.
managed in partnership by
the South Eastern Health & After completing the course,
After hearing a brief history
Social Care Trust and Choice participants said that their
lesson, learning more about
to support the housing and digital skills are better than
one of Ireland’s oldest
health needs of people with before, that they have better
Woodwork at estates, everyone was then
dementia and a range of other access to the internet and are
Westbridge House taken through the bottling
conditions. more confident going online.
and packing hall and into the
Carl Moore, Maintenance small batch distillery, where The course helped residents
Last year, the tenants decided
Assistant, used his woodwork they learned more about to know where to look for
to set up a formal committee
skills to make a wonderful Rademon Estate’s beautiful information on the services
to ensure they had a voice
wooden planter out of an old copper pot stills. they need and to communicate
in the way their housing and
bed frame destined for the their community was run. more with friends and family.
skip! Guests had an opportunity
Empowering Communities The group agreed that being
to meet the distiller and
was asked get involved as an online also makes them feel
The statement planter is founders all whilst being
independent organisation to more independent and able
raised to enable tenants at taken on a botanical journey
support them establishing a to do things for themselves.
Westbridge House Enniskillen, and full tasting experience,
Tenants’ Committee.
to roll their sleeves up and put after which the tenants
their green fingers to work. relaxed with a gin and tonic.
The newly established
Well done Carl, what a lovely committee was formally
showcase piece for celebrated on 26th September
the garden. at Cedar Court with plenty FESTIVE FUN
of cake and friends. The
tenants have worked hard to As part of our contribution to the T:buc Strategy, Choice held
establish the group and now Cross Community parenting Programmes in both Saintfield and
feel that everyone has a voice Ballynahinch over the last number of weeks, which were open to
Wonderful and an identity in their own Choice tenants and the surrounding community.
community.
woodwork The programmes were well attended and culminated in a festive visit
skills We wish the group
every success in their
from Santa for all the little ones, from newborns up to the age of four.
future endeavours
and partnership with
Empowering Communities.
Page 32 choice-housing.org choice-housing.org Page 33You can also read
