Customer Services 0300 123 0773 July 2014

hhomewardhebrideanom housinge partnershipwa newsletterrd

How to get help with the Bedroom Tax Are you affected by the Bedroom Tax? Are you receiving Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)? If you are affected by the Bedroom Council Leader Tax and are not currently Angus Campbell, receiving DHP then you Depute First are urged to make an Minister Nicola application. DHP is Sturgeon and HHP an additional Housing Chairman David Benefi t payment made Blaney with the by the Comhairle and phase 1 plans. it is a way to make up the shortfall between your weekly rent and Housing Benefi t award. Scottish Cabinet visit 16th April 2014 Speaking in a statement to Parliament on 7 May 2014, the Deputy First Minister Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon houses and we are very proud of the quality Nicola Sturgeon asked households marked the start of work on the of our new homes both for rent and sale.” who have lost out on housing benefi t development at Melbost Farm that will Cllr Kenny Murray, the Chair of the through the ‘Bedroom Tax’ to access provide 32 affordable homes to rent and Comhairle’s Environment and Protective compensation through Discretionary buy in Stornoway. Services Committee said: “The Comhairle Housing Payments (DHP). The scheme is part of a wider plan for HHP is pleased to have been able to provide Ms Sturgeon said: to deliver 61 homes across the Western fi nancial support towards MacKenzie Isles by the summer of 2015, supported Crescent and to continue our close working “What the Scottish Government is by £4 million in funds from the Scottish relationship with HHP and the Scottish able to do is mitigate the impact of the Government. Government. bedroom tax. Unfortunately, we are not Following the Cabinet meeting in Stornoway “This partnership approach is very yet able to legally abolish it. That means in April, the Deputy First Minister visited successful in delivering badly needed new tenants are still legally responsible for the site, where she announced the start affordable homes and so I look forward to the rent due as a result of the reduction of construction work that has been part- more developments in the coming years.” in their housing benefi t. funded through a £1.8 million grant from Local Councillor Charlie Nicolson added: “So it is important to send a very clear the Scottish Government. “This will enhance the local area and the message to social tenants today. If you The development – MacKenzie Crescent community and provide quality new homes are affected by the bedroom tax, help - consists of 16 homes for affordable rent for rent and sale. is available. But you must apply for this and 16 homes to buy as part of the Scottish “Exciting, quality housing developments help. You must engage with your landlord Government’s low cost initiatives for fi rst like this are most welcome in our and apply for a DHP as soon as possible time buyers (LIFT) programme. community, and thanks are due to the to enable you to pay the shortfall in your The investment comes as part of a housing Scottish Government, Hebridean Housing rent. And you should do so even if you development programme agreed between Partnership and Comhairle Nan Eilean have been refused a DHP in the past.” the Scottish Government, Comhairle Nan Siar.” What to do now Eilean Siar and the Hebridean Housing If you have to pay rent because of Partnership. the bedroom tax and you have The Deputy First Minister said: “I am not applied for DHP you should delighted to announce the start of work contact your Housing Offi cer on this new development at Melbost Farm, urgently on 0300 123 0773 which will see the construction of 32 new who will be able to give homes to rent or buy at affordable rates.” you advice and assist- See our David Blaney, Chair of the Hebridean ance on making an centre page Housing Partnership, said: “We are application to the delighted to see work commencing on Comhairle. pull-out section HHP’s latest housing development, which for the 2013/14 is using a local contractor employing local Mackenzie Park with the site for Mackenzie tradesmen. “HHP has now built over 300 Crescent in the back ground Annual Report Transformed image at Calabhaigh

HHP has recently completed external The HHP-owned houses are built above The contract is being carried out by painter work to the houses at a row of privately owned commercial local contractor MacInnes Bros, and is Calabhaigh, which is situated at the units, which accommodate a number of due for completion early in 2015. gateway to South Uist. The twenty four retail businesses including a butcher’s We currently have properties available house estate stands prominently at the shop, a hardware store and a clothing for let at Calabhaigh and anyone ferry terminal at Lochboisdale. and footwear shop. interested should contact John A A variety of colour options were The Calabhaigh properties enjoy MacQuarrie at our Balivanich Offi ce on discussed with tenants during an spectacular scenery from the front 0300 123 0773. open session and there was almost windows, looking across the bay to the unanimous agreement reached about island of Gasay. the fi nal selection. The island is currently being linked to Clear rent account winners Work was carried out by FES FM Ltd the main village by the Storas Uibhist led Lochboisdale Regeneration Pictured receiving her voucher from through their sub-contractor O’Mac Project. This is a £10 million contract Housing Offi cer Martin Flett is Mrs Construction. comprising the construction of two Maclean 9 Pentland Drive who won HHP has received very positive causeways, a fi shing boat pier, a 1st prize of £100 in the clear rent feedback both from tenants and the pontoon development, a new slipway account draw – Mrs Maclean was local community about the new image and the formation of a site for industrial, surprised and delighted with her of the Calabhaigh properties. commercial and housing development. win and plans to use her voucher to replace her old music centre with a modern hi-fi system. Other winners were Catherine Maclean of Gibson Best Estate 2013 winners Gardens, who won a £50 Home HHP introduced a Best Estate/Street Improvement Centre voucher and competition in 2013 and tenants and Sandra Morrison & Michael Stewart Camach Park, who won a £50 Tesco residents were invited to enter their Voucher. Estate/Street into the competition. The judging of the competition took place in September 2013 and Queensland Road was chosen as the winner in the Stornoway Area and Graham Park was chosen as the winner in the Lewis Rural and Harris category. There was no winner in the Uist and Barra area as there where no entries which met the criteria. The winning Street/Estate received £200 worth of garden vouchers to be used to further enhance the appearance of their Estate/Street. Pictured with HHP Board Member Callum Mackay, is Anne Maclean who ACCESS – AIRSOURCE received the prize on behalf of the SERVICING tenant’s and residents of Graham Park. It is important that tenants allow HHP access to your homes to service your BEST ESTATE COMPETITION 2014 Air Source Heating System. A service is required annually to ensure your system ENTRIES ARE NOW INVITED FOR THIS YEARS COMPETITION. is running effectively and effi ciently. Entries to the competition should meet the following criteria: Failure to grant access not only wastes • Entrants must have submitted their entries by 20th August 2014 HHP’s time and money for unnecessary visits, but could also cost you money if • Entrants must agree to their Estate/Street being used in publicity in HHP’s your system is not running as it should. newsletter if they were successful If you are unable to be home at the • There must be an HHP tenant in the Estate/Street entered appointment time given, please contact • Entrants must not have had any external help in the preparation of their the number on the letter to arrange an gardens alternative. Your help on this matter is appreciated. Help for our priority customers - Scottish Hydro The Warm Home Discount scheme The Warm Home Discount is a Government scheme designed to provide fi nancial assistance to low income and vulnerable households. Janette’s memorial bench In the 2013/14 fi nancial year, eligible HHP dedicated a bench to the memory of households received a discount of our friend and colleague Janette Martin who £135 on their electricity account by 31 sadly passed away in 2011. March 2014. After consulting Janette’s family the bench Scottish Hydro expects to start taking was located in a beautiful spot which was applications for 2014/15 from June special to the family overlooking Coll sands 2014. You will be able to download and Broadbay. these at web address: http://www. hydro.co.uk/HelpAndAdvice/ExtraHelp/ PriorityPlan/ or you can call on 0800 300 111 in July 2014 to request a form to be posted to you. Scottish Hydro have other ways you can save money, such as changing the way you pay to monthly Direct Debit and signing up to paperless billing. You can also lower your energy bills by making small changes around your home. Their energy effi ciency advice and helpful energy saving tips provide you with easy ways to save energy and money. Cold Weather Payment Cold Weather Payments are made by the Government to households in receipt of qualifying benefi ts during periods of very cold weather. These payments are to help with the extra heating costs if HHP staff raise money for local charities the average temperature where you live HHP staff were delighted to be able and Chris Macleod of Alzheimers is recorded as 0°C or below for seven to give two local charities a Christmas Scotland Lewis and Harris Services consecutive days. Eligible households present last December. Staff collected by Jackie Macleod and Katrina will receive £25 for each seven day over £1,000 throughout the year Palmer (who won HHP’s Christmas period between 1 November and 31 through dress down Fridays, raffl es Jumper competition). March, paid in the same way as their normal benefi ts. and bake sales, Alzheimer Scotland Shona Paton of HHP made the and Eilean Siar Foodbank were presentation to Gavin Lawson of selected to receive £500 each. Eilean Siar Foodbank who also The photo above shows money received boxes of food donated by TWITTER being presented to Marion Macinnes some of HHP’s staff. FEED Follow HHP on Twitter - Hebridean Housing @HebHousing

Board Meeting details & AGM Board Meeting 3rd September 2014, 5.30pm, Balivanich AGM 10 September 2014, 7pm, Venue to be confi rmed Board Meeting 19th November 2014, 5.30pm, HHP Boardroom Harris Tenant’s Community Meeting November – To Be Confi rmed Planned Maintenance – Year 5 Housing All our stock is split into a 5 year programme with a 1/5th of houses being inspected every year. This is now year 5 of the programme. (Scotland) The following schemes are on the programme for this current year. The Clerk of Works surveyed each estate earlier this year and work has been agreed. The Bill priority is given to work to protect the houses such as roughcast and roof repairs. Unfortunately, resources are not suffi cient to allow all the work identifi ed by the The Housing (Scotland) Bill is Clerk of Works to be carried out so it will not always be possible to do lower priority currently being discussed by the works such as fencing repairs. Scottish Parliament. All tenants in these streets will receive a leafl et and letter informing them of what The Bill includes the following: works will be carried out along with the expected start/fi nish dates. Co-operation • The abolition of the Right to Buy. is required from tenants for access in particular to ease and lubricate windows and doors and for cleaning of chimneys (solid fuel properties). • Changes affecting the allocation of social housing Lewis Arras Cottages Uists, Benbecula, • Changes affecting the statutory Cearn Shodaidh Elizabeth Haldane Court Eriskay regulation of lettings agents and Cearn Shulaisgeir MacDonald Gardens Dunrossil Place the development of a housing Bridge Cottages Cameron Terrace Windfi eld Close tribunal for the private rented Airidhantuim 1-10 Cleit Winfi eld Way sector Heatherhill Tomair Church Hill • Strengthening Local Authority Carnan Park Keose Glebe Casimir Place Powers to pay missing shares Camach Park Cnoc A’Bhlair Trosaraidh where the majority of owners in Airidh A’ Bhreidhe Carn Aonghais Hydro House a block have agreed to carry out 1 Lewis Cottage Lon Ban Rubha Fraoich work but some have not paid their Ford Terrace Druim Fraoich Barra share. Ford View Cille Bharra Abolition of Right to Milkinghill Park Horough Cottages Buy Gleann Dubh Harris Ciosmuil Crescent Part 1 of the Bill repeals the right to Springfi eld Road Gillebhal Cearn Eoghainn buy in the Housing (Scotland) Act Dun Berisay Sunnyhill Cialla 1987 and provisions in the Housing Ross Terrace Tobair Mairi Ciosmuil Cottages (Scotland) Act 2001 and the Housing (Scotland) Act 2010 which are no longer required following the abolition of right to buy. NEW FREE PHONE CONTACT Once passed, the Scottish Government have announced NUMBER FOR NHS24 that no tenant of social housing in Scotland will have the Right to Buy NHS 24, Scotland’s provider of telephone and web based health after 2016. If you require further advice and information, is now available on a new, free to call information please contact Maggie number: 111. Bellshaw on 0300 123 0773. The new telephone number means that people throughout Scotland can contact Allocations the service free of charge There will be amendments to from a landline and who Landlords are expected to mobile. give ‘reasonable preference’ to If you need help at night, in allocating houses. The three or over the weekend and reasonable preference areas will you can’t wait until your now be homeless persons who 24 GP surgery reopens, have ‘unmet housing needs’; you can call NHS 24 tenants who are under occupying free on 111. NHS 24 will and those living in ‘unsatisfactory direct you to the right housing conditions’. The Bill also care. This may be to introduces changes to how Housing your local out of hours Associations deal with applicants services, Accident and who currently own a property. They Emergency department, will be able to prevent allocations or the Scottish Ambulance to applicants who own properties Service. If appropriate, except in certain circumstances e.g. they may recommend where continued occupation would some steps you can take lead to abuse. If you require further to look after yourself at information please contact Mina home. Maclean on 0300 123 0773. If it is an emergency you Registration of Lettings should still dial 999. Agents By dialling 111 patients The Bill seeks to introduce a new will receive the same high regulatory framework for letting quality, trusted service agents. There is no current statutory that has been delivered regulation of letting agents. The Bill by NHS 24 for over 10 seeks to introduce a formal register years. NHS 24 is there of letting agents, which aims to to help if it can’t wait promote high standards of service until your GP surgery and levels of professionalism. reopens. 2015-2019 Investment Programme

HHP are currently in the process of preparing our 4 year Investment Programme for 20015-19. The current 4 year programme will come to an end HHP Investment Programme on 31st March 2015. We will also be tendering soon to appoint contractors benefi ts Crossroads to ensure works are ready to commence on site on 1st April 2015. Since 2011, HHP has been successfully HHP, has made a donation of £1000 to The Investment Programme includes delivering benefi ts to communities Crossroads, Lewis. works such as: across the islands through our contracts. • Kitchen replacement As part of contracts to deliver works in Crossroads Lewis gives home support tenant’s homes, our contractors are to carers regardless of age, disability • Bathroom and shower replacement asked to make a contribution to the or illness and to those living alone, • Heating replacement community. struggling with ill-health or loneliness. • Window and door replacement Alex Murray Construction Ltd, who was They also provide a valued Palliative • Roofi ng replacement successful in securing six contracts with service at home. • Roughcast replacement When the programme is fi nalised we will provide all tenants with details setting out the plans for their homes. We will seek to maximise the benefi t that tenants and the community at large get from these contracts by asking contractor’s to help community groups and good causes. There is much to do in the tender process and we shall keep tenants informed at various stages through the website, tenants groups and other meetings. If you wish to discuss the programme or would like further information please Hugh Cherrie retirement contact Customer Services on 0300 123 0773. Hugh Cherrie retired from HHP on Calum Mackay Chair of the Cearns Friday 25 April 2014 after 27 years Community Association said ‘Hugh’s service. post was created by the Comhairle’s He started work with Comhairle Nan Housing Department in partnership Eilean Siar on 1 April 1987 as the with the Cearns Community Estate Handyman for the Cearns. This role later changed to Handyman and Association which showed tenant widened to cover all of Lewis. involvement was high on the agenda. Hugh would be seen early in the Tributes were paid to Hugh by colleagues at a retirement lunch. morning clearing any litter and he He was presented with a large fl at helped the elderly and less able with screen TV by John Maciver, Director grass cutting in the summer months. of Operations, on behalf of HHP and He was an asset to the community John thanked him for his contribution and the Association wish him all the to delivering services to tenants best in his retirement’. over these many years. Magnus Johnson presented him with Argos Hugh plans to spend time fi rst of all Vouchers on behalf of his friends visiting friends and family off-island Magnus presenting Hugh with Argos and colleagues and wished him before attacking his wife’s list of vouchers on behalf of his friends and all the very best for his retirement. handyman jobs. colleagues Joan Mary Mackenzie Retirement Joan Mary Mackenzie retired on 31 Executive of HHP acting as MC for the and he thanked her for all her help March 2014 after almost 40 years evening. and support which she had always service in housing. She started work Joan was presented with an iPad Air by been willing to give to him and all her in 1974 with the Ross and Cromarty John Maciver, Director of Operations colleagues. District Council before becoming one of on behalf of HHP and he paid tribute An overwhelmed Joan thanked everyone the fi rst employees of the newly formed to her contribution and commitment and especially Jackie Macleod who Comhairle Nan Eilean in 1975. Joan to helping tenants over these many had arranged what had been a hugely then joined HHP in 2006 when it was years. emotional day and evening. established by the Comhairle. Magnus Johnson, who had worked She said her immediate plans were to Over 50 family, friends and colleagues with Joan for 28 years presented spend more time with her family………… gathered at Borve House on the her with a TV/DVD Combi, a pair of evening of Friday 28 March 2014 to Pink Hunter Wellies, a photo book and her sheep. celebrate her retirement. A number and a handbag on behalf of her A great evening was had by all and the of speeches and presentations were colleagues. In an emotional speech entertainment, food and service were made with Angus Lamont Chief he said she would be hugely missed fi rst class.

New staff members The sun is out so turn down the heat Now that the better weather has arrived it is important to remember that you can make some savings on your energy bill by turning the temperature down in your home. Janet MacDonald has joined HHP If you have a room temperature control Stephen Nicol has joined the team as a Corporate Resources Admin then turn it down a few degrees when as Finance Manager in our Finance Offi cer (part-time). Janet also works the sun is shining. Similarly you can team. Stephen previously worked for part-time as Professional Practise & turn down the heating using the the Royal Bank of Scotland and Stirling Development Administrator in Western thermostatic controls on the radiator Fibre. Isles Hospital. valves. If you are unsure on what to do then just phone Customer Services on 0300 123 0773 and HHP will do it Standing Charge for Gas Meters for you. HHP has become aware that tenants etc.) to have the meter removed to Don’t forget that there is no need to may be receiving bills for standing avoid further charges. heat bedrooms when no-one is in charges for their gas meters, whether them so turn the radiators down to HHP are not responsible for gas or they use gas or not. If you have not done the frost setting where there is one. electric meters as utility providers only so already, please check to see if you For more tips on saving energy pop are being asked to pay this charge. deal with the account holder. If you in and see us or you can phone HHP recommend that tenants with no have any problems please contact The Energy Advice Service (TEAS) gas central heating but who still have HHP Customer Services on 0300 123 on 01851 706121 who also provide a meter, should contact their utility 0773 and we will try and help you were energy advice for HHP tenants providers (British Gas, Scottish Gas possible. SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE FOR 2013/14 d Innse Galland tolocalcontractors who deliver genera Universal Credit, including direct does su nothave a this impactof pastyearhasseen the First foremost and a at services year, whichhasbeenverychallenging AnnualReportdetailsThis so ofHHP’s eighth summary restora house the programme cametoa temporary ha September 2013butwith the overall reduc commitment to the aims of HHP. Thanks also Thanks HHP. of aims the to commitment We would like to take this opportunity to thank Board Members and sta Board and tothank Members opportunity this totake We wouldlike This par This uptake onencouraging emphasis ofDiscre Ci and Comhairle with the It hasbeen with tenants andtrypr HHP’s toengage aim penalty’ or‘Bedroom Tax’. incomemany of of ourtenantswith reduc the Whilst Government. During 2013/14HHPcon its introduc excess of £4million. The emphasis againwas onbringing the housing stock up to the Sco greatly improved levels ofinsula excep of replacement Standard withprogrammed For the main partof2013/14,HHP,for main For the the Sco The very a very The undertaking made priortotransf Craigston,(4), Horgabost, Harris and West Barra (6) being un build new more forward to We look fora which 16are (32)of Stornoway d feature incommunity bene appren of number the worktoincrease of levels future of thatlongterm planningHHPhas contribu Chairof NeilGalbraith Comhairle and of the Sco the Execu OrrChief from David a poverty fuel and Reform Welfare Conference Housing the yearwas the highlightof However the in Stornowa tenants for events outreach of a number held HHP construc Investment inourstock in and ne evelopment programme for2015-2018 programme evelopment evelopment programme for2015-2018 programme evelopment sh Housing QualityStandard. onal quality, replacing solidonal quality,replacing fuel hea central on. Thecon on of grant levels we are delighted to see new developments star developments new see to aredelighted we levels grant on of cular is reform asitpunishes iniquitous for tenants sh Federa sh ons. on sector. We want tosee localconstruc Wewant on sector. rac on very di me of uncertainty. great ve 24house development atGibsonGardens, Stornoway was handed over byLewis Builders on19 ffi on ofHousingAssocia Message from the Chair & Chief Executive & Chief Chair Message fromthe nuing uncertainty with the withthe uncertainty nuing cient supply of small proper cient ffi cult. metable for the introduc forthe metable nued tohonournued the ballotcomm pre-transfer fi t clauses in future construc clauses future in t ve of the Na zens Advice Bureau has been targeted at maximising tenant income withpar tenant targetedatmaximising hasbeen Bureau zens Advice w build since 2006 has seen the crea the w buildsince 2006hasseen er tobuildnew homes a at payment to tenants is poten is totenants payment on. Tackling ison. fuelpoverty a key priori acquired two sites in Stornoway which Stornoway in acquired twosites ff racted prominent speakers both na both racted prominentspeakers ordable rent and 16forshared equity. and rent ordable as the Board and Management Boardand trie as the Team is being worked onwithSco being is is being worked onwithSco being is onal Federa ons inanumberons of bene ons were much appreciated byalarg appreciated much ons were fi the last of the single glazed windows, windows, glazed single ofthe last the dertaken at Allt Na Broige (7 shared equity), Crowlista, Uig (4), Balivanich Balivanich (4), Uig Crowlista, equity), shared (7 Broige Na Allt at dertaken onary HousingPaymentstomi NHS Western Isles gave the localperspec Isles the NHSWestern gave rst to our partners including the Comhairle, Sco Comhairle, the including partners toour on inhousing associa repairs andimprovement servicesfor ourtenants. me since ‘Transfer Day’hadno new developments onthe ground. lt. However thankstosupport from the metable rollout forthe Credit ofUniversal prepara makes on of Universal Credit has slipped we are seeing a squeeze on the the on squeeze a seeing are we slipped has Credit Universal of on on companies who we work with having su having with work we who companies on es to enable them to downsize. However, looking forward, looking However, downsize. to them enable to es (10) in the next year or so. HHP’s Board is commi ng systemsng with airsource heat pump systems andinstalling on of Housing Associa me of our achievements over the course of the past ofthe course the over ofourachievements me on contracts. ceships on o on ceships being deemed to under-occupy even when their landlord being deemed tounder-occupy Welfare Reform agenda beingim agenda Welfare Reform ovide the best advice andsuppo ff ordable rent levels throughout the Western Isles. A Western A the Isles. rentlevels throughout ordable held in May. The Conference which focussed on on which focussed Conference The inMay. held ally the biggest change toa change biggest ally the fi y, Balivanich and Castlebay Balivanich and over pastyear. y, the ts and the introduc ts the and on grant and par and on grant ff sh Government andComhairle partners. As part sh Government andComhairle partners. As part on of much welcomed jobopportuni er toouryoungpeople.Appren er itments with aninvestment programme in can accommodate more than 100houses. morethan accommodate can onally and locally.Excellentonally and contribu ty forHHP. 80 %ofHHPstock meetsthe gate the impact of the ‘Bedroom Tax’. impactofthe gate the ng at Leurbost (8), and Melbost Farm, ng atLeurbost (8),Melbost Farm, and ons and MaryTaylor Chief and Execu ons ff o ter upr, ad ok and work hard support, their for d to ensure HHP delivered excellent HHPdeliveredd toensure excellent e audience.Campbell Leader Angus fi ng kitchens andbathroomsng of cularly the level of grant per level ofgrant cularly the on of the ‘under-occupa ve with thought provoking ve withthought rt weworking can.Joint sh Government, Tighean Tighean Government, sh ohil ad part a and Comhairle plemented by the UK UK bythe plemented ffi ff sh Housing Quality Quality Housing sh cient con cient c lnlrs n a in landlords ect ceships will ceships will fi ed to the ed tothe dence in es in thees in fi nancial nancial on for ve of cular cular ons ons on Annual Return on the Charter (ARC) HHP submitted its first Annual Return on the Charter (ARC) in May 2014. How we have performed in relation to the indicators will be published later in the year in a special report for tenants. A summary of some of the key indicators is detailed below with a comparison to 2012/13 APSR data where this was possible.

DETAIL ARC 2013/14 APSR 2012/13 REPAIRS Emergency repairs completed 1613 1464 Non-emergency repairs completed 2887 - Reactive repairs completed right first time 92.38% - ARREARS Total arrear £310,678 £336,123 Former tenant arrear £111,486 £103,087 VOIDS Void at year end 83 Void for more than six months 1- Void loss (not in ARC but included for info) £47,857 £42,856 LETTINGS General needs 201 196 New applicants added to housing list 485 442 Number of applicants on list 729 755 DEVELOPMENT New build 28 15 GENERAL Rent increase 3.6% 4%

Get Involved! Hebridean Housing Partnership is committed to the involvement of tenants and other service users in the running of its affairs and is committed to consulting customers over decisions that may affect them. The Scottish Social Housing Charter, which sets the standards and outcomes that social landlords must achieve, also holds service user involvement at its heart. We are considering setting up a tenant focus group and would like to hear from you if you would be interested in taking part. Please return the tear off strip if you would like to know more. Name: ______Address: ______

Email: ______Tel: ______Please specify any particular housing service or issues that you would be interested in getting involved with : ______7 Financial Overview

Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended 31 March 2014

31 March 2014 31 March 2013 Non-accountant's guide ££ Turnover 8,587,373 8,945,790 Income from rents and other activities Operating Costs (4,887,750) (5,630,182) Cost of maintenance and management of properties and other activities Operating Surplus 3,709,623 3,315,608 Surplus on sale of fixed assets housing properties (11,437) (16,866)

Interest receivable and other income 7,027 4,366 Bank interest on deposit accounts Interest payable and similar charges (260,359) (252,421) Interest on money borrowed Surplus on ordinary activities, before transfer of Reserves 3,444,854 3,050,687

Statement of Total Recognised Surpluses and Deficits for the year ended 31 March 2014

31 March 2014 31 March 2013 ££ Surplus on ordinary activities, before transfer to Reserves 3,444,854 3,050,687 Transfer to Designated Reserves (505,156) (432,185) Total recognised surpluses since the last financial statements 2,939,698 2,618,502 Balance Sheet as at 31 March 2014

31 March 2014 31 March 2013 Non-accountant's guide ££ Tangible Fixed Assets Housing Properties at cost 24,787,262 21,597,270 Houses we own Other tangible fixed assets 928,231 827,374 Offices and equipment Investments 1 1 Share in Subsidiary £ 25,715,494 £ 22,424,645

Debtors due after more than on year 7,801,719 10,485,583

Current Assets Stock 123,777 15,567 Debtors due within one year 904,916 750,538 Money owed to us Short-term deposits 1,271,550 1,225,91 Money in the bank Cash at bank and in hand 838,262 720,853 3,138,505 2,712,863 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year (1,037,140) (1,186,967) Money we owe others Net current assets 2,101,365 1,525,896 Total assets less current liabilities 35,618,578 34,436,124

Creditors: amounts falling due after more What we owe on loans for building our than one year (8,165,109) (7,679,915) houses & money due to Scottish Government 27,453,469 26,756,209 Provisions for liabilities and charges (7,717,528) (10,396,565) Net assets 19,735,941 16,359,644

Capital and Reserves Share Capital 193 192 Number of members £1 shares Money set aside for special purposes including Designated Reserve 2,529,276 2,024,120 future planned repairs Capital Reserve 110,049 178,607 Revenue Reserve 17,096,423 14,156,725 19,735,941 16,359,644 Kitchen, window and heating displays from O’Mac LEWIS Construction, Neil MacKay & Co. and Alex Murray Construction Ltd allowed tenants to see what to expect when work is carried out in TENANT their homes. Clerk of Works and Investment Managers were on hand to answer questions on the investment plans for EVENT tenants’ homes. There was a buzz of excitement as the raffl e was drawn due On Friday 9th May 2014, Stornoway to some impressive prizes Town Hall was the new venue for the donated by HHP consultants annual Lewis Light Lunch hosted in and contractors. Thanks go partnership with WIFTRA (Western to Calmax, TIG, Neil Mackay, Isles Forum of Tenants and Residents O’Mac, Alex Murray, FES FM, Association). In the same format as Torrance Partnership, Rennie recent years, the event was an informal Partnership and WIFTRA. Some “drop in” with a light buffet provided. of the lucky prize winners are shown being presented with their HHP Offi cers and our partners manned prize by Angus MacNeil of HHP. stalls around the hall to allow tenants to browse at their leisure, picking up the During the event, tenants odd freebie as they went. There was an completed feedback forms regarding HHP and the event impressive turnout from our partners and itself. We were very pleased to those in attendance were Fire Safety, hear that the event had once Police Scotland, Western Isles Foyer, again been a great success Citizens Advice Service, Advocacy, with just some of the comments Third Sector Hebrides, Homeless being; “Brilliant. Got loads of Service, FES FM, NHS, Western Isles information.”, “Very good event. Credit Union, TEAS, Hebrides Alpha, Very informative.”, and one DWP and the Comhairles Housing tenant even describing the event Benefi t Section. as “The Bees Knees”.

Do you use bottled gas for cooking? carried out by a GAS SAFE engineer Are you aware that it needs to be to ensure the system is safe. You COOKING registered with HHP ? can contact HHP if you need help If you have bottled gas then please fi nding an engineer. contact HHP for permission so we Failure to register may result in WITH GAS? can add you to our gas register. You action being taken to remove the also need to have a yearly service supply. Help us to improve social landlords’ services…

The Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) has set up a National Panel to hear about service users’ priorities and views. The National Panel is open to anyone who uses social landlord services; the SHR is keen that the Panel membership represents all parts of the community, and provides an accurate picture of service users’ experiences and views. If you use social landlord services and are interested in the Panel, you can fi nd details on how to join below. We would also be grateful if you could pass these details on to anyone you work with – clients or co-workers HHP help Newmarket Play Park – who may be interested in joining. The Riverside Gardens play park in Newmarket was, until recently, in serious A fl yer is is available, if you are able danger of being completely dismantled. to display this in any service access However, a new Trust Committee and a small army of volunteers joined forces with points. Many thanks for any help you local businesses and organisations to save the community asset. The community can offer. action project caught the imagination of local residents of Newmarket, Bridge The Scottish Housing Regulator Cottages and Gleann Dubh and could become a model for creating amenity The Scottish Housing Regulator’s role spaces around the islands. is to protect the interests of tenants, The neglected play park has been brought back into use with support from homeless people and others who Hebridean Housing Partnership Ltd, and a number of other local companies. use the housing services of councils, Hebridean Housing Partnership has also encouraged contractors O’Mac housing associations, co-ops and Construction Ltd and FES FM to help with fencing off the toddler play area which other social landlords. was a big issue for the trust on safety grounds National Panel: what it’s for & why it’s important The National Panel is one important way for the Scottish Housing Regulator to hear about your priorities and the services you receive. Feedback will help make sure the SHR is focusing on the important things. Who can join You can join if you are a tenant of a social landlord, are homeless, a home owner receiving factoring/common repairs services from a social landlord, or a Gypsy/ Traveller who uses a council/housing association site. What’s involved As a Panel member we will send occasional surveys asking for your views - no more than 2 or 3 a year. Surveys will be quick and easy to complete. We may also ask you to give us feedback in other ways. TO JOIN OR FOR MORE INFORMATION… By phone: call Craigforth (who manage the Panel) on freephone 0800 027 2245 Online at: http://bit.ly/nat-panel fall in to category 3, there is no annual Property Factors charge or management fee. Owner’s title deeds set out common obligations and provide the basis for (Scotland) Act 2011 us acting as property factor of the Common Property, and entitle us to The Property Factors (Scotland) Act HHP have not billed owners for these instruct repairs and maintenance works. 2011 placed a legal requirement on costs in the past. Following the change The title deeds may set out the value HHP to register as a Property Factor in legislation HHP now invoices owners of repairs we can do without having to and failure to have done so would have for any common repairs required. notify owners in advance. There is no been a criminal offence. value threshold for work needed in an There are three broad categories of emergency and we will carry out such Following the introduction of the Act, properties and owners. These are: work where there is a serious Health which became effective on 1 October 1) Properties where we already have and Safety issue without consultation 2012, Hebridean Housing Partnership a factoring service in place. These with owners if necessary. We will Limited (HHP) has reviewed the are primarily the recently built LIFT normally consult for work that is not an obligations and responsibilities of both schemes; emergency. HHP and owners with regards to the common parts of buildings and the 2) Properties where HHP provide services Invoices have now been issued for the surrounding environment, in respect of such as grounds maintenance, door period 2013/14. The majority of invoices which HHP provides factoring services. entry system maintenance and relate to annual servicing costs, with a where owners are liable for a share small number also including a share In our case, “property factor” means of these costs; and of any repairs carried out during the a housing association which manages fi nancial year. the common parts of land used to any 3) All other streets where properties extent for residential purposes and have been sold and where there may owned— be shared liabilities for elements such as paths, pavements and parking (i) by two or more other persons, or areas. Hebridean (ii) by the local authority or housing HHP and other owners have a shared association and one or more other responsibility for areas such as Housing person. footpaths and car parks and HHP have now become the property factor for Partnership Owners have obligations and these schemes. responsibilities to meet a share of the Customer costs of repairing and maintaining We calculate each owner’s share of any common parts of the building of any costs incurred by dividing the cost Services which their house forms part and the of work carried out by the number of surrounding amenity areas. This may properties required to share these include footpaths, parking areas and costs. 0300 123 0773 open ground. For the majority of owners ie, those who Do you receive the benefi ts below? If so call now on 0800 888 6040 for free under-fl oor, loft, room in roof and cavity wall insulation.

Child Tax Credit & Income below £15,860 ✔ Pension Credit ✔ Or One of the combinations below: Disabled Receive a Parental worked work related responsibility element activity or for a In receipt of or severe support qualifying a qualifying disability component child* component element Over 60

Income related AND one of Employment and Support the following ✔✔ ✔✗✗ Allowances

Income based Job AND one of Seeker’s Allowance the following ✗ ✔✔✗✗

Income Support AND one of the following ✗ ✔✔✗✗

Working Tax Credit and AND one of has a relevant income the following ✗✗✔ ✔✔ below £15,860

* Is under 16 or over the age of 20 and in full time education (other than higher education) and be ordinarily resident with the benefi t/tax credit recipient. ** Conditions apply: A Home Energy Effi ciency Programme Scotland; Area Based Scheme delivered by Taigh Blath on behalf of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar. HEBRIDEAN HOUSING PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

Mackenzie Crescent, Melbost, Isle of Lewis Work has begun on the new Melbost Farm site. This scheme of 32 houses being built by Calmax Construction will Mackenzie Crescent, Melbost, Isle of Lewis include 16 homes for rent through HHP and 16 for sale. The fi rst section is on track to complete in January 2015 and in January, 2014 and this rural scheme Crowlista, Uig, the second should handover in July of 8 houses will be completed in July 2015. 2014. There will be a mix of 1 and 2 Isle of Lewis The semi-detached properties range in bedroom properties. Calmax Construction has been size from 1 to 4 bedrooms. They will be appointed to provide 4 new homes built to the highest standards, featuring Balivanich, in the village of Crowlista. These very high levels of insulation and central Isle of Benbecula heating systems with air source heat homes will provide much needed pump technology to assist in tackling HHP are very keen to move forward accommodation for rent in one of our tenants’ energy costs. There are also a with a development of 4 houses for more rural communities. We expect number of special needs houses in the rent in the Balivanich area. Various to start on site in September subject development. sites have been assessed and plans to the de-crofting process being The £3.6 million development has been for an area of land off Winfi eld Way are being progressed. It is hoped complete. funded by Scottish Government Grant, that this scheme can progress for HHP’s own resources and support from completion in early 2015. Future development Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar. The naming of the scheme was carried Craigston, We have recently acquired land out following consultations with local for future development. Land at community groups and it was agreed Isle of Barra Horgabost Harris, Goathill Farm in to keep the historical connection to The site at Craigston School has been Stornoway and Melbost have been the Mackenzie family who farmed this identifi ed for housing but there have bought with Government assistance. land. been various problems which have slowed development. The scheme We are also looking at other rural Allt Na Broige, Marybank, will provide much needed homes on sites and are exploring several Isle of Lewis the island of Barra if it goes ahead. possibilities. Calmax Construction was the successful tenderer for this scheme of 7 houses. This development will consist of 3 x 3 bedroom and 4 x 2 bedroom homes to be sold under the Shared Equity Scheme. It is expected that these houses will be complete by December 2014. If you are interested in the Low Cost Ownership for First Time Buyers Scheme (LIFT) please contact Liz MacInnes or Donna Smith at Tighean Innse Gall, 01851 706121 or email liz@ tighean.co.uk

Kennedy Terrace, Leurbost, Lochs, Isle of Lewis We are delighted to be providing new homes for rent in the Leurbost area of Lochs. Kennedy Terrace, Leurbost, Lochs, Isle of Lewis Construction works commenced on site its representative to the outside world conferences. The formal parts of these A Day in and its spokesperson.” are usually benefi cial to HHP, but Before attending each meeting of HHP, quite often informal chats with chairs all Board members are sent a copy of and Board members of other housing the Life… all the papers at least a week before associations can make me realise that the meeting and are expected to read HHP is not alone with such issues as David Blaney, HHP Chairperson them in preparation for the meeting. rent arrears, lack of funding for new Because the meetings are generally build, other services that are provided, I thought held in Stornoway I, like other Uist & etc. Of course, such gatherings are I would Barra based Board members travel to held on the mainland. With meetings start off by Stornoway the day of the meeting, and lasting a day this can mean 3 days of looking up sometimes the day before if training is the week for this islander due to travel the word being provided as well. Then, on the itineraries. day of the meeting I attend a briefi ng “chair” in a Now and again I can be approached in meeting, which roughly lasts an hour, dictionary person or by phone or e-mail by tenants to see if I with the chief executive and appropriate directors and staff to go over any who have concerns. Sometimes I was doing can be the fi rst person that has been anything reports that may need a bit more of an explanation. The main meeting usually contacted and other times there are like what is misunderstandings between tenant described. takes place over a couple of hours in the evening, and of course my main duty is and HHP staff member. I like to think “The chair is the end result is satisfaction for the the highest to introduce the reports and ensure the meeting runs smoothly. I am honoured tenant provided by a friendly member offi cer of an organised group such as of staff. a board, or a committee. The person that the Board members and all the staff holding the offi ce is typically elected or make a great team, and all discussions When I refl ect, I realise I have been appointed by the members of the group. take place amicably. I, like all based in part of the HHP team since the start The chair presides over meetings of the South, am obviously required to stay and not one moment have I regretted. the assembled group and conducts its overnight away from home comforts, We have always been fortunate to business in an orderly fashion. When returning home the next day. have a good team of staff and Board the group is not in session, the chair’s In between meetings I have been members which I trust is being led by duties often include acting as its head, known to represent HHP at housing a decent chair.

Hebridean Cycle Challenge June 2014 HHP and Homeless staff took part in It was a great way to support an examinations, as is a requirement the Hebridean Cycle Challenge on extremely worthy cause to make a real for all merchant seamen, which 14th June 2014 to raise funds for the difference in our community. he passed easily. Unfortunately Andrew Macleod Memorial Fund which Murdo said “CRY statistics report, on many cardiac conditions can not be aims to provide local heart screening average 12 young people die every detected by a stethoscope alone, but events supported by Cardiac Risk in week from previously undiagnosed require an ‘image’ to be taken, such the Young (CRY). The fi rst screenings cardiac conditions (3 to 4 are in as an ‘electrocardiogram’(ECG), or an will take place in Stornoway on 29 & Scotland). ‘echocardiogram’ (Echo). CRY can 30 August this year and anyone aged The ‘Andrew Macleod Memorial Fund’ provide these tests within its mobile between 14 & 35 can register for the was set up in 2013 within CRY (Cardiac screening programme, with a target screening by logging onto the CRY Risk in the Young), with the objective age group of between 14 & 35 years. website www.c-y-y.org.uk\ of raising suffi cient funding to provide Plans are in place to hold two further Six members of staff got on their bikes future ‘cardiac screening sessions’ screening sessions, the fi rst in Sept and cycled 21.3 miles from the Creed within the Western Isles. 2015 and another in Sept 2016. Re-cycling centre to Scaldale centre. Andrew Macleod was our Son. He was This has only been possible thanks Another member of staff John Angus a 21 year old trainee marine engineer to the support and fundraising by a Macdonald took part in a 12km walk in the fi nal year of his studies. On 21st number of different organisations and from Uragha to Scaladale. Andrew Oct 2011, he suddenly died on board individuals, whose generosity has Macleod was the nephew of John ship in Hong Kong, from a cardiac enabled us to secure the services of Angus Macdonald, who is in the photo condition of which he had no warning the CRY mobile screening unit, so (above right) along with Andrew’s or symptoms whatsoever. don’t delay and book your place today, parents Murdo and Dollag Macleod. He was subject to regular medical It might just save your life!” hhomewardhebrideanom housinge partnershipwa newsletterrd

GARDEN MAINTENANCE Not everyone is able to maintain their own garden for one reason or another Offi ce Refurb 2013 and this can be quite distressing especially during the growing season. HHP’s Stornoway offi ce has been Do you have a neighbour who is refurbished in order to improve our unable to maintain their garden due ability to meet with and respond to our to age or ill health? Would you be tenants and visitors. We now have a willing to give up a little of your time larger Customer Services area which to help them out? Your help would be provides better interview facilities and gratefully received by them – so go on space for additional tenant services – give your neighbour a helping hand – these include two public access PC’s this Summer. which will allow visitors access to the internet and HHP’s own information resources. The computers can be used Hebridean Housing Partnership for a wide range of purposes – such as obtaining welfare and tenancy support Customer Services information, completing online claim forms or making online rent payments. 0300 123 0773 It is hoped that further tenant services will soon be made available. WWAYSAYS TTOO PPAYAY YYOUROUR RRENTENT DID YOU KNOW THAT YOU CAN • By rent payment card at any Post NOW PAY YOUR RENT ONLINE? Offi ce or Paypoint/Payzone To access this method of rent payment go to:- • At your local HHP offi ce; http://tinyurl.com/hhppayments • By Direct Debit mandate on a This takes you to the Comhairle’s weekly or monthly basis; 24 hour secure Internet payments Shore Print & Design Ltd service. Select HHP Housing • By Bank Standing Order; Rents and you can make your rent • By telephone using your debit payment using this secure site with or credit card – phone 01851 most major credit or debit cards. You can also pay your rent by the 709296; following options: • At your local Comhairle offi ce.

Scottish Charity No: SC035767. Industrial & Providential Society Reg No: 2644R(S). Registered Property Factor: PF000183