Observer Summer 2018

Home , Portstewart

FUNDRAISING P.8 COMMUNITY NEWS Raymond Campbell and How to get ready for P.4 Muriel Sands talk to the Universal Credit and just RAMPS UP FOR Observer about accommoda- how successful the role of AFRICA tion for older people in Financial Inclusion Officer is Derry-Londonderry P.5 proving to be

Catherine Lusby - Manager of Apex Food Club explains It’s all happening in the idea behind a ‘members Enniskillen, Portstewart only’ scheme that’s tackling New 4-year programme & East Belfast P.6 food poverty P.3 FINANCIAL MATTERS

Issue 19: Summer 2018 Apex Housing Association

Double win for Apex at CIH Awards

Apex Housing Association was a worthy winner of CIH ‘Best Housing Development for large development Award; “providing a diverse range of innovative community initiatives that new tenants can ‘plug into’, helping to invigorate community life

CIH Judging Panel

Siobhan Porter, Architect at Apex proudly holding the CIH Award for Best Large Development presented to Apex at Titanic Belfast. Also included from left: Damian Murphy - Newington Housing Association; Gabriel Duffy - Quantity Surveyor at Apex; Ray Forbes - Director of Development at Apex; and John O’Connor, Chief Executive of the Housing Agency, Dublin

CLON ELAGH, DERRY-LONDONDERRY GREEN-FIELD DEVELOPMENT OF 757 HOMES

Apex’s ability to think big while delivering quality and character to the very smallest schemes, won the organisation a ‘double first’ in Chartered Institute of Housing Awards Apex dominated this year’s all-island CIH that won ‘Best housing development for small Awards, clinching the awards for best large development’. The award-winning development and best small developments in an outstand- on North Queen Street was delivered in partner- ing night for the organisation. ship with Newington Housing Association. Clon Elagh in Derry-Londonderry, official- Receiving the awards on behalf of Apex’s ly recognised as one of the largest develop- Development team, Director Ray Forbes said: ments undertaken by a housing association in “The sheer scale of the Clon Elagh development, Northern Ireland in the last 30 years, won the totalling 757 new homes in all, represents one of award for ‘Best housing development for large the most dynamic, imaginative and challenging development’. construction projects undertaken by any social But when the applause subsided, and atten- housing provider here. We’re delivering quality, tion turned to unveiling the award for best small affordable, energy saving homes that meet the development, the Apex team were back on their needs of a diverse community, on-budget and feet. on-time. This time it was North Queen Park on North “We’re also very proud of the contribution this Queen Street, Belfast – a small terraced devel- ambitious scheme has made to the regional econ- NORTH QUEEN PARK, BELFAST opment, reflecting local architectural herit- omy: at Clon Elagh alone, we will have created 26 HOME REGENERATION PROJECT age, and close to Grade ‘A’ listed Clifton House, CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 2 The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 First things first Supported housing providers HIGHLIGHTS warn of increased risk to service Community It would be very easy for those up to the very real risks that they are Support Services are vulnerable 07 working in the voluntary housing imposing on service providers and It is widely accepted that following 10 sector, both at board and execu- service users? years of flat-lining – providers are now Helping to tive level, to become despondent For a long time the SP programme on their knees with no further efficien- building a in the current working environ- has approved new projects without cies to offer that do not increase risk to ment that we now find ourselves securing an increase in the overall the service users or to the staff involved. shared future, in. budget to support the additionali- Support services now have to be subsi- ty. The SP funding available to ser- dised from other sources such as char- John Meehan vice providers has therefore been itable funding but not every provider ‘peace by piece’ Chairman of Apex stretched over more and more has the resource or expertise to enter schemes with the result that no infla- the fundraising market place. tionary increases have been paid in If a support service is no longer viable 10 years which equates to a 25% loss the consequences are inevitable and in income in real terms. will be devastating for vulnerable resi- A review of SP was carried out in dents. I sometimes question if those in 2015 which made 13 recommenda- authority truly realise this but cannot tions but only slow progress has been imagine that it is an outcome that any- made to implement these, with little one is seeking to achieve. It is there- engagement with the sector. While fore vitally important that the sector Good Neighbour Charter When will those in authority many of the recommendations is financially supported in the short- crafted in mosaic wake up to the very real risks aimed at addressing the challenges term to allow the recommendations “that they are imposing on are yet to be implemented, the dif- of the 2015 review, which are aimed service providers and service ficulties were further compounded at improving efficiency and effective- 12 Hero of the ‘House’ by the Housing Executive’s decision ness, to be implemented. It is important users? to cut funding to providers by 5% last that we all work together in a real and A tribute to Tommy McCay, John Meehan, Chairman of Apex year which provoked such an out- meaningful partnership over the medi- one of the founding fathers cry from the sector and beyond that um term to support those most at risk of the ‘House in the Wells’, I am referring in particular to the this measure was reversed. However, within our society. in Derry~Londonderry cater- Supporting People (SP) programme this year this draconian measure has It is unfair to expect already hard ing to the needs of home- which provides housing support ser- again been introduced and unless pressed service providers to operate less men facing ill-health vices to over 18,500 vulnerable peo- common sense prevails and the fund- in an environment of extreme auster- ple in Northern Ireland each year. ing re-instated service providers will ity. Urgent action by government is and addiction. When will those in authority wake be left facing unpalatable choices. required now!

10 & 11 Double win for Apex at CIH all-island awards ceremony Development News CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 approximately 250 local jobs in con- Derry~Londonderry struction and related services over

11 the period of construction.”

The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 The Apex Observer | Summer 2018

10 Development Development The CIH Awards are regarded as Apex delivers new homes between each year Apex AWARD WINNING makes A DEVELOPMENTS £multi-million East Belfast spires contribution

to NI economy – sustaining around 500 the most prestigious housing awards construction jobs annually.

during 2017-2018, Apex strives apex started 477 to meet the New homes With demand for

A construction social housing value of £46.6m. in areas of acute need, with St Matthew’s Church and surrounds high-quality energy-saving in the housing calendar, and it was homes

AT the beginning of 2018-2019 APEX had 20 housing schemes under construction providing 747 new homes Apex’s pre-eminence across CIH’s

Westbourne Presbyterian Church and surrounds ‘best development’ spectrum that APEX AIMS TO MakE housing-led With the co-operation of St Matthews and Westbourne churches in East Belfast, Apex’s high quality homes lay the founds of regeneration ents, had been raised here taking a real high level of expertise to planning and interest in new homes here.” regenerationunemployed or those leaving work education. for all “Once we opened up discussions, the designing the development on Susan On the other side of the Peace Wall, Across Northern Ireland, Apex is Apex is developing key wasteland By working alongside church, views and expectations of the commu- Street, but they also had a common many of those sentiments were echoed delivering hundreds of quality new sites in disadvantaged urban commu- community and political leaders nities they represented, were incorpo- sense approach. by Patrick ‘Tucker’ Devlin, Chairperson homes, cultivating social cohesion nities across Northern Ireland. We are on either side of the East Belfast rated into every aspect of the plans.” “They demonstrated a genuine of St Matthew’s Housing Association, and spurring regeneration in both delivering high-quality new homes at Peace Wall at Lower Newtownards Rev Mervyn Gibson, Minister of urban and rural communities. grasp of the sensitivities in the area who said the houses on Bryson Street these locations; which is helping to drive Road, Apex has been able to build Westbourne Presbyterian Church, attracted most attention on Awards Our building programme provides a and an appreciation of its history too. had engendered “a lot of positivity”. economic regeneration in surround- much-needed new homes on for- also known as the ‘Shipyard Church’, The people who live in and around this “To date 11 properties have been significant boost to the Northern Ireland ing areas. Through the Department for mer church grounds. said Apex had earned the trust of the church are very proud of their herit- transferred from Apex to St Matthew’s economy, sustaining hundreds of jobs Communities’ ‘Housing for All’ initiative, Westbourne Presbyterian Church community early on: “Whatever Apex age. We want to share the story of this HA and allocated to delighted new res- across the construction industry in the- Apex is attempting to lay the foundation agreed to the demolition of their do on one side of the ‘Wall’… they do building trades and professional servic church hall that had become expen- idents. stones for a shared future; supporting- Handover to tenant on Hallidays Road, Belfast from (centre) Ray Forbes - Apex Director of es. Additionally, Apex’s commitment to initiatives that foster diversity in a cultur Development & Procurement and Myles McIlwee, Senior Housing Officer, Apex sive to run and maintain, allowing “There is very high demand for the ‘Social Clause’ programme results in ally-enriched society. Apex to begin the construction of six affordable, good quality, social hous- many opportunities for the long-term houses at Susan Street. ing in this wider area.” - night. Meanwhile, on the opposite side of Although earlier attempts to stim award winning development team the Peace Wall, Apex had already com- ulate regeneration in the area had pleted 11 new homes on a vacant site failed, Mr Devlin is confident the new Building homes that support beside St Matthews church, and is now homes will “uplift” the area further. activity and friendship in later life seeking planning permission for the “For more than ten years, this deso- conversion of the parochial house to Apex demonstrated a genuine late site had been a blight on the com- provide a further eight apartments. The corner between Mountford munity. It had been developed into a grasp of the sensitivities in complex of small business units but Taking the views of everyone Road and Bryson Street is now “ the area and an appreciation North Queen Park, Apex’s second “ they had deteriorated badly and were Given longstanding political sensi- completely revitalised. I have to of its history too. lying empty for many years. tivities in the area and the imposing say Apex did a fantastic job. “A lot of pedestrians take this route presence of the ‘Wall’, the twin hous- Rev Mervyn Gibson, Minister of Westbourne Presbyterian Patrick ‘Tucker’ Devlin, Chairperson of St Matthew’s HA to the nearby chapel and it was an eye- ing projects represented one of the sore. That corner between Mountford most challenging inner city develop- community and the impact they made Road and Bryson Street is now comments Apex has undertaken. on the other. That’s a very good prin- around the world. I’ve been involved pletely revitalised. Apex did a fantastic couples in the 55-plus age group. Apex Director of Development, Ray ciple to begin with and it’s something in the ‘Titanic People’ project for some With more people living longer, job, and we are working with them on Typically these are people who want Forbes said: “We knew we could only we saw carried through every stage of time and it has immense tourist poten- the development of some more new win on the night is in stark contrast to more active lives, Apex is facilitat- to maximise their independence in deliver schemes in politically sensitive this process. tial. ing new lifestyle choices for over Members of Apex’s award winning development team - seated from left: Brian O’Connor, homes. a safe, secure environment, without areas with the support of church, polit- “In recent years the church hall had “Ray and the team were very inter- 55s. Karen Kyle, Jennifer Thompson, Lynda Mullan. Standing from left: Una Sweeney, Thomas Doherty, “It’s great to see key, disused sites the need for scheme support, but Sheona McKinney, Lynn Doherty, Siobhan Porter, Shirley Fulton, Ray Forbes and Yvonne Roulston. ical and community leaders, and local become surplus to requirements and ested in the wider vision we have for With work beginning on a new and ‘Best Small Development’ for brought back into use for the benefit of with plenty of opportunity for com- people. there was support in the community the area, and I found working with development of 15 self-contained Apex’s development team cele- North Queen Park on North Queen local people and the houses have defi- panionship and friendship building. “Fortunately we found that local for having it demolished. Ray and his him to be a very enjoyable experience. apartments at Fennel Drive, Antrim, brated a double win at 2018 Street, Belfast. The CIH Awards recog- nitely had an uplifting impact here.” Apex Director of Development, Ray people and their leaders, genuinely team listened to what the community “It has been good to see young fam- Apex continues to lead the way in Chartered Institute of Housing nise outstanding people and organ- Forbes explained: “At Fennel Drive, shared our vision and wanted the best needed and they were open and trans- ilies whose parents, maybe grandpar- providing modern options for our awards. we hope to build on the popularity of isations in the housing sector across for their respective communities. parent in negotiations. They brought a active elderly. Apex won‘Best Large Development’ the scale of Clon Elagh. The develop- our active elderly accommodation at the island of Ireland. for Clon Elagh in Derry-Londonderry Independent living communities Rathmullan Drive, in Rathcoole, this offer contemporary, age-restrict- time in a tranquil, rural setting” ed apartment-living to singles and ment at North Queen Street consists of Apex Development Team members Karen Kyle and Jennifer Thompson with the CIH Awards for ‘Best housing development for large development’; and just 26 characterful new homes (built ‘Best housing development for small development’ The Apex Way on the site of a former police station) in north Belfast - an area with an acute “Our guiding conviction, that ten- “I am extremely proud of the Working with communities shortage of social housing. ants need more than a roof over their input by the entire team, includ- Delivered in partnership with heads to lead fulfilling lives, informs ing the imaginative ‘do-ability’ of Newington Housing Association, the everything we do. When it came to our in-house architect and various Contact the Editor heritage-inspired brick facades and the design of our new homes, our professionals who made this high- If you have any community news stone features used at North Queen housing department worked with ly ambitious masterplan into a liv- or events you would like the Apex Observer to cover, please get in touch: Park, are in keeping with the built existing Apex communities to ascer- ing, thriving new community for the heritage of North Queen Street. tain true needs – resulting in a par- future. Email: [email protected] Mr Forbes added that while the ticular focus on day-to-day prior- “But I’m no less proud of what we’ve Apex Development team took the ities, such as fuel poverty. And by done at North Queen Street and what Telephone: 028 7130 4800 lead role in delivering Clon Elagh, the providing a diverse range of innova- it signifies in terms of dismantling Fax: 028 7130 4801 organisation drew on a vast resource tive community initiatives, we have the fortifications of the past to make 10 Butcher Street of knowledge, effectively spanning kick-started community life in this way for homes of the future, in the Derry - Londonderry BT48 6HL every department over many years. vibrant new development. areas where they are most needed.” The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 3 Strategies £25.00 worth of quality food for £5.00 It looks much like any well-stocked, “A lot of what we have available small grocery store, but the Apex is surplus food which comes from Food Club in Derry-Londonderry FareShare - a charity which collects is a taste of something different food from food processors. In addi- in the battle against food poverty. tion, we collect food that local super- The scheme, supported by the markets have been unable to sell. Department for Communities, is Various changes in an individual’s or one of five piloted across Northern family’s circumstances can result in Ireland in Strabane, Coleraine, them facing food poverty, Catherine Lisburn and Belfast. explained. The Apex Food Club is located in the “Bereavement, a change in their Apex Living Centre in Springtown, physical or mental health, in their Derry-Londonderry. The Food Club employment status, the breakdown is a members only scheme, which of a relationship – can all tip some- accesses surplus branded supermar- one, who had been managing for ket food. years, into severe financial hardship. By signing up as a member of the We try to unravel the issues as much Apex Food Club hard-pressed fami- as we can and signpost them if nec- lies and individuals are encouraged essary to other agencies for support, to take steps to lift themselves out helping them begin the journey of food poverty. Food Club offers towards better health and possibly members one-to-one advice and return to work.” programmes on various issues, Catherine Lusby lifts the lid on We offer members a number of including: managing debt, house- The food club at APex Living Centre short self-development programmes to help them avoid falling into food means tested benefit or Working their financial problems but it cer- poverty in the future: Tax Credits. Membership is capped tainly does make their food bill “All our programmes are delivered People from all walks of life at 50 members and is open to people stretch quite a bit. For £5 spent at in strict confidence, in a one-to-one are eating poorly or going who are not Apex tenants. the Food Club, members leave with setting and are tailored to the indi- “without, including people “There is a lot of hidden poverty a choice of items that are worth, at vidual’s own needs.” here, it had become clear that peo- least £25. But it’s not just food that’s handed who are working but not ple from all walks of life are eating out here. Kind words and cups of tea earning enough to cover their poorly or going without, including are also on the go. “I understand how basic bills people who are working but not difficult it can be for people to come Catherine Lusby - Manager of the Food Club at the Apex Living Centre earning enough to cover their basic For £5.00 spent at the Apex here. But it has actually become a bills,” Apex Food Club Manager social hub, with a number of the hold budgeting and food planning, Catherine Lusby explained. Food Club, every member members volunteering at the Apex employability, skills development “People working zero-hour con- “leaves with a choice of items Living Centre to help support oth- and volunteering opportunities. tracts on the minimum wage, really that are worth at least ers. In fact, it’s amazing how quickly Members can be unemployed or struggle with budgeting their food £25.00 Food Club has impacted on people’s employed, but must be living in shopping for the week!” lives in terms of promoting self-con- Catherine Lusby - Manager of the Food Club at the Apex Living Centre BT47 or BT48 and be in receipt of The Food Club doesn’t solve all fidence and self-esteem.”

Apex issues new data protection guide to 5,500 homes More than 5,500 householders er accountability on organisations mation and requests to delete infor- your rights or undermine your trust.” received information in the post when processing personal informa- mation. last month, outlining Apex’s tion relating to individuals. The new The document also explains how responsibilities under new data legislation gives individuals greater long Apex keeps personal informa- protection legislation and how it control over personal information tion relating to you and details how may affect them. held about them by organisations - information generated from on-line on paper and/or electronically. services may be lawfully used by us. Apex’s Privacy Notice, delivered to Elaine Taylor - Director of Personnel some 5,500 households, explains the & Training at Apex said: “It is impor- If you have any queries with regard to We welcome the introduction most important aspects of GDPR and tant that service users know they can any points highlighted in this article, of the new regulations which describes how Apex legitimately col- trust Apex with their personal infor- please contact Elaine Taylor - lects, stores and uses personal information. Director of Personnel & Training “will further protect the mation; how and why this informa- “This can be a complex area and we Department at Apex: processing of personal tion is gathered and the type of infor- have made every effort to communi- Email: [email protected] information mation which Apex might receive cate in a straightforward, user-friend- Tel: 028 7130 4800 Gerry Kelly - CEO of Apex and share with third parties. ly way how these new laws may affect or by post to: It also outlines the rights that you tenants and residents. Apex Housing Association Ltd On 25 May 2018, the EU imple- as an individual have under this new “We want householders to know 10 Butcher Street mented the General Data Protection legislation including the right to that we take our responsibilities Derry~Londonderry Regulations (GDPR) – a new regula- request a copy of any information regarding your personal informa- BT48 6HL tion which updates existing data pro- held by Apex relating to you; the tion very seriously indeed and that tection law and which places great- right to correct any incorrect infor- we will do nothing that will infringe 4 The Apex Observer | Summer 2018

APEX LIVING

Apex Living is helping tenants resolve Tel: 028 7130 4800 problems with budgeting, debt, benefits, email: [email protected] and more! Feel free to contact Michael Lyttle to see if he can help. Apex’s dedicated financial advice From signposting tenants into work and training opportunities; delivering real savings on household bills; helping to access unclaimed benefit and low cost credit – Apex’s Financial Inclusion Officer has had a life-changing impact on hundreds of tenants and families. Since the role of ‘Financial Inclusion In total, 121 tenants were supported into Officer’ was created at Apex approx- training or employment as part of the imately three years ago, Apex has Financial Inclusion Officer’s remit. helped to ease the financial pressures The post also facilitated a number of felt by hundreds of struggling tenants practical initiatives delivering real sav- and their families, and helped many ings to tenants, with 313 tenants encour- others back to work. aged to switch to cheaper rate electricity Helping Access Unclaimed Benefits providers; some 113 tenants joined oil Since his appointment to the role of buying clubs, saving an average of £17 Financial Inclusion Officer, Michael Lyttle per 200 litres and over 100 tenants signed has examined around 1,250 individual up for the fuel stamp savings scheme. cases; delivering an extra £829,682 in Affordable Credit Project unclaimed Social Security benefits for Apex also helped a number of tenants some of the poorest tenants and families access low cost credit, rather than turn- living in Apex homes. ing to payday and doorstep lenders. Access to those entitlements has had a “Apex’s Affordable Credit Project has “life-changing impact” on many of those Looking at tenants’ overall circumstances, Apex’s Financial Inclusion resulted in tenants receiving approxi- people and their families, Mr Lyttle said. Officer has been able to assist more than 1,250 individuals and mately £80k in loans from the Credit “Through this role, I managed to obtain Union - representing a saving of approx- an extra £829,682 in Social Security ben- families to access unclaimed benefits of just under £830,000. imately £60k of interest charges, when efits for tenants or family members. compared with interest charged by some “One particular couple gained a much- Training or Employment of the main doorstep lenders.” need £18,000 per year in unaccessed But the post isn’t confined to access- Feel free to contact Michael Lyttle benefit. In addition to providing a free 829,682 ing unclaimed benefits. Mr Lyttle also at Apex about any aspect of your benefit check to new tenants, I also assist helped to initiate a number of ‘back to finances. our elderly tenants, and this alone has BENEFITS work’ opportunities via external agencies Tel: 028 7130 4833 or email: resulted in an extra £75,558 per annum of £ including GEMS NI in Belfast and The [email protected] Social Security benefits being accessed.” ACCESSED Princes Trust Employment Skills 20-20.

New Claims for Universal Credit

Universal Credit is Q. What happens to my existing benefit when my Q. What do I need to know about making a claim? circumstances change? being introduced Before making your claim you need to know that: for new claims on a If your circumstances change after Universal Credit phased geographical • Universal Credit will be paid twice a month, although has been introduced in your area, you may move to you may request a monthly payment basis across Northern Universal Credit at that time and your existing benefits Ireland from September will stop. • you will be expected to make your claim online 2017 to December 2018. If your circumstances do not change, you will move • you will receive a single payment for your household When it is introduced to Universal Credit between July 2019 and March in your area, you will • if your Universal Credit includes an amount for rent, 2022. The Department for Communities will contact it will be paid directly to your landlord no longer be able to you when it is time to move to Universal Credit. make a new claim to the Q. When do I get my Universal Credit Payments? benefits being replaced Q. Are you prepared for Universal Credit? and you will need to Universal Credit is normally paid twice a month to claim Universal Credit You can start to prepare for Universal Credit by: a household and you will need to budget for this. instead. • setting up a bank account - we can help you! However, you may request a monthly payment. • setting up an email address - we can help you! • learning how to use the internet - we can help you! If you have any queries about Universal Credit or need any help, please get in contact with Apex’s • checking how much rent you pay including any Financial Inclusion Officer, Michael Lyttle. service charges. Tel: 028 7130 4800 or • making sure you have the documents you need to email: [email protected] verify your identity - this may include your passport, driving license or a household bill. The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 5 APEX community Brickfield Court: where tenants make their own lifestyle choices personalised services – things like social Brickfield Court in activities and visits from qualified profes- Derry-Londonderry sionals – chiropodists, hairdressers, com- plementary therapists.” is sheltered When an individual moves into accommodation, Brickfield Court, they are assessed to ensure their needs can be met. The level but not as you know it, of support needed, whether minimal or enthusiastic Scheme significant, is discussed and agreed with Manager Raymond the tenant, and where appropriate with Campbell tells the their families. Tenants control social activities Observer “Staff organise arts and crafts, shopping trips, music nights, cinema, leisure activities and other social events. But it’s the tenants themselves who determine what activities they want at bi-monthly meetings, because fundamentally, we want them to take ownership. Over the years, the tenants have become more Promoting choice, independence and lounge, quiet room, landscaped gardens ants who want to keep their independ- and more involved in the social aspects social interaction, with as much, or and patio area. ent lifestyle and remain active. But many of life in Brickfield. “Some tenants like a lot of involvement as little support as you want, is at the Ideal community for 55+ of them also want to receive various heart of the Brickfield Court experi- with the community here, others less, But what many people don’t real- but everyone’s choices are respected and ence, according to Scheme Manager ise about Brickfield Court, Raymond Raymond Campbell. observed. And that’s the way it should explains, is the spectrum of choice. be!” The sheltered scheme, overlooking “Brickfield is the ideal community for ‘Tenants enjoy the same life- the city from Bligh’s Lane, is close to people of 55 and upwards who enjoy style, freedom and privacy of churches, shopping centre, Post Office, their independence and the privacy of “their own home combined If you would like to enquire about and various social and leisure facilities, their own apartment while availing of with the security and conven- accommodation at Brickfield Court while being just a short distance from all the benefits that a secure, mainte- please contact Raymond Campbell, ience of a maintenance-free Manager of Brickfield Court. the city centre. It provides 42 modern, nance-free community provides. self-contained, one and two-bedroom environment’ Tel: 028 7130 9104 or email: “Opened 20 years ago, it’s a purpose [email protected] flats, plus communal areas including a built scheme designed for mature ten- Gerry Kelly - CEO of Apex

With its distinct family-friendly ethos, residents is an important feature of life in Daleview House in the heart of Derry- housing with care AT Daleview,” Muriel added. Londonderry’s Waterside, is the ideal Daleview HOuse “We put a strong emphasis on spend- environment for residents who want ing time with each resident and encour- to stay as independent as possible aging communication, because provid- but in a social, secure and supported ing emotional and psychological sup- environment. port is an important aspect of what we do here.” Our dedicated staff team is headed up by an experienced manager, who under- takes a thorough assessment of each resident’s care requirements, lifestyle Muriel Sands - Housing & Care Manager at choices and preferences before they join Apex speaks to the Observer the Daleview community. All staff work in coordination with a Daleview is a registered Housing With multidisciplinary team and information Care scheme, providing supported living is shared to ensure the changing care accommodation for 13 residents. needs of every individual are met. Apex Housing and Care Manager, “Housing With Care is the ideal choice Muriel Sands, explained the facilities for older people who benefit from and staffing culture here offers care to on-site support when they need it but residents who cannot, or may not wish Daleview House is located in a busy community who want to maintain their independ- to, live completely on their own but do convenient to shops, hospital and other services. ence as much as possible.” not require 24-hour medical supervision. “Cooked meals and laundry servic- Residents are encouraged, within their capacities, If you would like to enquire about es are available. We serve nutritional- to get involved in the community and maintain care at Daleview House - please ly balanced meals; with special dietary contact Muriel Sands at Apex. Tel: 028 7130 4800 or email: requirements and personal preferences social contact. Family and friends are encouraged [email protected] also catered for.” to visit at any time. Social interaction with staff and other 6 The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 APEX COMMUNITY

East Belfast kids enthralled by Narnia journey Thanks to an Apex funded residential, a group of children from east Belfast stepped into the magical world of author C.S. Lewis. The kids stayed in Murlough House, Newcastle, Co. Down where C.S. Lewis often visited as a child. The author credited the area with inspiring his Narnian landscape. A spokesperson for Willowfield Parish Community Association, who hosted the residential, said: “Our vision was to take children from the place where C.S. Lewis was born, to the place that inspired his writing. “Themed around fearless, friendship and freedom - the kids had the chance to engage with the story, build community and work in teams. We are immensely grateful to Apex, for their support.”

WORKING TOGETHER MARCH: TENANT DOES MAKE A PARTICIPATION DIFFERENCE MONTH This summer our Community Apex held two information sessions in March as Pages celebrate the wonderfully part of the Tenant Participation Month. Thanks to Radius Community Hub in Derry- varied events in your Londonderry for the use of their facilities to host neighbourhoods that remind us residents of Clon Elagh; and thanks also to The why working together does make Leaf Centre, run by Cavandale and Cavanaleck a difference! Children and youth Community Association, Enniskillen which played played an important role in many host to local Apex residents. of these initiatives, from clean-ups Tenants at both locations had the opportunity to speak directly to members of the Apex team Apex Gardening to friendship building projects and who dealt with issues and queries around cross-community outreach. housing, property services, Universal Credit and Competition Well done to all involved! benefits. Proud of your garden? Got fabulous Our Senior Communities Officer, Rachael Power hanging baskets or great features? met with tenants who Enter your garden in the annual Apex are actively involved in Gardening Competition. their community and £50 Vouchers for all category winners. Don’t forget to stick your ‘Calendar of Events’ insert onto your fridge and took the opportunity to Entries must be in by Friday, 10th August 2018 keep up-to-date with the various focus groups and opportunities for Tenant listen to their views and Please contact your Housing Officer Participation in your community. ideas.

Portstewart just got even prettier In April, Apex staff helped the tenants of Swilly Close in Portstewart organise an industrious one-day clean-up. The local council donated use of a skip enabling tenants to get rid of hard to dispose items free of charge. In a short space of time the skip had been put to good use. We were especially pleased to see so many young people from the estate get busy with the litter pickers. Apex provided an ice-cream van as a reward for everyone’s hard work, with one tenant adding a bouncy castle to the Earth Day celebrations. We’d love to see more communities like this one, take the initiative, and contact us to help you enhance your communities. If you think your area could benefit from a community clean-up, please contact Rachael Power - Apex Senior Communities Officer: Tel: 028 7130 4800 or email: [email protected] The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 7 APEX COMMUNITY

Schools celebrate diversity thanks to T:BUC funding

Children from Cranmore Integrated Primary School, Belfast Children from Cranmore Integrated Primary School, Belfast taking part in the One World event. taking part in an African drumming workshop Adults from left: Andrew Duggan - Teacher at Cranmore Integrated P.S.; William Doherty - Principal; Rachael Power - Senior Communities Officer at Apex; and Stella Tsang from Artsekta.

Three Belfast primary schools edu- mortar. Respect for diversity, particular- for funding to run programmes that cating children who live in Northern Three Belfast primary ly among young people who represent reflect T:BUC principles. Ireland’s first shared neighbourhood schools educating the potential for a shared future here, is The schools used the funding in a scheme, Ballynafoy Close, have ben- at its core. variety of ways: Cranmore Integrated efited from Apex-funded diversity children who live in “As part of the ‘Bridging and Bonding’ P.S. hosted a One World Day, celebrating projects. Northern Ireland’s first aspect of the T:BUC funding, Apex con- the different traditions that enrich mul- Having delivered the first of 10 integrat- tacted all schools with pupils who live in ti-cultural life in Northern Ireland. ed housing projects across NI, under the shared neighbourhood Ballynafoy Close, inviting them to apply Orangefield P.S. brought P.7 pupils Executive’s commitment to the Together: to various places of worship, including Building a United Communities (T:BUC) scheme, Ballynafoy Belfast Synagogue and Belfast Islamic strategy, Apex continues to invest in Close, Belfast have Centre. the ethics that underpin the initiative, Currie Primary School partnered with Senior Communities Officer, Rachael benefited from Apex- neighbouring Holy Cross P.S., to earmark Power, explained. funded diversity funds for health and education courses “Our commitment to our shared and a parent group. neighbourhood schemes doesn’t end projects. Rachael added: “We were delighted to with handovers. This project is as much see the schools put the money to such about developing good relations and good use in celebrating diversity.” community cohesion, as bricks and

Using individual pieces to create own tiles. a united whole - there are few art “With the help of local artists from Red forms that speak to our sense of Earth Designs, each group used the tiles being connected, more than mosaic. they had created to painstakingly piece Apex’s Rachael Power pieces the story together a wonderful mosaic. together. “The creative process was a lot of fun When it came to drawing up a Good but at a very important level, the artwork Neighbour Charter for Northern Ireland’s encouraged the participants, young and first shared housing scheme, the imagina- old, to focus on the T:BUC ethos and to tive young people of Ballynafoy Close in think about how these values could be Belfast made an inspired choice. represented visually. The integrated development on “With a great deal of pride in all the Ravenhill Road, is one of 10 designat- participants, Apex officially launched the ed T:BUC (Together: Building United Charter at a family celebration event in Communities) schemes. Building a shared future, March.” As part of our commitment to the Good peace by piece Relations Plan, Apex has been working with tenants to develop a Good Neighbour Charter for the estate. Children from Apex’s shared housing scheme at Ballynafoy, Belfast at the launch of the development’s new neighbourhood Charter. Also from left: Rachael Power - Senior Communities Rachael Power, Apex’s Senior Communities Officer; Artists Karen and Claire Gibson of Red Earth Designs; and Jacqui Gilmore - Housing Manager at Apex. Officer at Apex revealed how the mosaic with support group - Alternatives NI, to ing a written Charter, the young people gallery at Ballynafoy Close grew out of the explore these in more depth. These princi- were keen to create something visual that Charter. ples formed the basis for the Charter. everyone could contribute to together. “The work on the Charter began during “There was a consensus that the Consequently they decided to create a a summer scheme attended by young Charter should provide an opportunity mosaic made up of tiles that expressed people from the estate last year. They for all the Ballynafoy residents to become the T:BUC principles, with the younger looked at the T:BUC principles and worked involved in it. But instead of simply hav- residents working in groups to make their 8 The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 Apex with Children in Crossfire

apex with Children in Crossfire

Apex launch four-year plan to build classrooms in Tanzania

School children in the village of Miwaleni in Moshi District, Tanzania. Thanks to Apex with Children in Crossfire - the school children of Miwaleni, enjoy relatively good teacher-to-pupil ratios (by Tanzanian standards). But children in Misungwi District (Apex’s next focus) have pupil ratios as high as 1 teacher to every 300 children!

The new school classrooms in Misungwi has the highest teach- With the support Misungwi District are to be deliver-pupil ratio in the country – one and generosity of ered in co-operation with Children teacher for every 108 children. In the Apex is looking forward to our staff, tenants in Crossfire (CIC), with £20,000 areas where Apex will work with CIC, committed annually by Apex, class sizes are even higher, with up starting work on extending and suppliers, Apex starting this year and completing to 300 children in a class and just “Misungwi’s inadequate school is reaching out in 2022. one teacher. CIC also revealed that facilities and helping the poor- out of 19 schools in the district, none Change of direction est women develop an income. to children living have dedicated pre-primary classes For the last eight years, Apex, work- or qualified teachers. Gerry Kelly - CEO of Apex in one of the very ing in partnership with CIC, has con- poorest parts of the centrated on providing essential Help for Misungwi Schools Looking ahead to the four-year plan health and educational facilities, as Apex is now ready to embark on a new for Misungwi, Mr Kelly said: “Relying world; pledging well as small agri-enterprises largely funding programme, with the release on CIC’s considerable knowledge in £80,000 over four run by women, in and around the vil- of the first £20,000 tranche to finance the field and drawing on the many years to support lage of Miwaleni. the construction of classrooms and positives from our joint engagement But following a review by Children in agriculture-based cottage industries with the people of Miwaleni, Apex is the construction of Crossfire, the charity is now directing run and managed by village women. confident that this new programme classrooms in the its attention to the district of Misungwi, Apex CEO, Gerry Kelly, confirmed will deliver lasting benefits to the in Mwanza region. In the most stricken the organisation is looking forward to thousands of children in Misungwi. Misungwi District of areas of Misungwi, CIC found extreme starting work on extending Misungwi’s This new partnership focuses on Tanzania. poverty, widespread malnutrition and inadequate school facilities and help- two programmes. an acute lack of educational facilities - ing the poorest women develop an “The first part of our plan is to deliv- all well above the Tanzanian average. income– er 12 classrooms over four years in the worst affected target wards; pro- Apex with Children in Crossfire - viding a pre-school environment to an estimated 720 children per year MOVING from Moshi to Misungwi and which would serve thousands of For the last eight years, Apex, work- district to focus on other areas currently children in the long-term. ing in partnership with Children in in greater need. “The second part of our plan is to extend CIC’s Women’s Crossfire (CIC), has improved the Moving to area with greatest need lives of thousands of children living Empowerment Programme, which A thorough review by the charity works to improve the economic sta- in the Miwaleni village community has led to a new four-year partnership in the Moshi District of Tanzania. tus of the most vulnerable women in with Apex, this time focusing on the Misungwi.” Changing people’s lives Misungwi district in Mwanza region. Richard Moore of Children in Apex, together with CIC have pro- Even by Tanzanian standards, Misungwi Crossfire added: “The partnership vided life-changing resources across district is extremely impoverished – between Children in Crossfire and a number of programmes, including ranking in the bottom 10 out of 132 Apex over many years has had a posi- health and educational facilities, as well districts nationally, for malnutrition in tive impact on thousands of children as funding for small agri-enterprises, children under five. and their families in Tanzania. largely run by women. The average teacher to pupil ratio is Our relationship with Apex is one New Focus 1 to 108. But in the most under of the most valuable, rewarding and Gerry Kelly - CEO of Apex and Richard Thanks to the success of our joint resourced areas, where we will be productive that we have. The addi- Moore - CEO of Children in Crossfire talk strategies in the Moshi Rural District, concentrating, the ratio stands at an tional commitment of £80,000 will with Dunstan Kishekya, Executive Director unmanageable 1 to 300. of Maarifa ni Ufunguo in Miwaleni Children in Crossfire has now exited the bring Apex’s total fundraising on our behalf to almost £300,000.” The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 9 Property Services apex Nailors Row gets an upgrade with Children in Crossfire befitting its status

Nailors Row as it currently looks with overparking

Nailors Row as it looked before upgrade

A wonderful transformation has taken place at Nailors Row, just outside the City Walls in Derry–Londonderry. Visiting the finished public realm space were from left - Ciaran Smyth - GM Design (Architects); Oisin McCloskey - Patrick Bradley Limited (Contractor); Andy Bonner, Kevin Butler and Gerry Kelly - from Apex; Paul McNaught - Department for Communities

One of the most neglected quar- idents at Apex’s Alexander House and for financial assistance to upgrade Apex would like to thank consult- ters of the City Walls in Derry- The House in the Wells. the street and create an attractive ants, GM Design, and contractor Londonderry, has been trans- Nailors Row, lying in the shad- addition to the city’s public realm. Patrick Bradley Ltd for their excellent formed into a tourist pathfinder ow of the Walls from Bishops Gate The Department recognised Nailors work. and viewing point benefiting local to Double Bastion, had remained in Row as an integral part of the City The chairman of Apex, John people and tourists alike. a run-down state for several years. Walls tourist trail and committed Meehan, said: “We are indebted to Construction and upgrading work More recently, it had been used as an over £600,000 to the project. the Department for Communities at Nailors Row took eight months unauthorised car park - often causing Vehicle access to Nailors Row is for providing funding to allow us to complete at a cost of £700,000. risk to life by preventing emergency now controlled by an automated bar- to address the access difficulties for The project, on which Apex part- vehicles from gaining access to the rier system and a new pathway has emergency vehicles while at the same nered with the Department for two Apex schemes. improved connectivity for tourists, time transforming this area into a Communities, also addressed a num- To address the issue, Apex applied providing linkage to the Long Tower pleasing public realm space, for all to ber of issues affecting vulnerable res- to the Department for Communities Church and Bogside Murals. enjoy.”

Apex’s Property Services adhere to the highest standards in pro- Department achieved an inter- viding an excellent and prompt main- nationally recognised standard tenance and repairs service. These are for customer service delivery, essential services for tenants and a very with the awarding of ISO Quality high priority is put on ensuring that Management System certification we deliver on and exceed their expec- earlier this year. tations. The office based assessors The prestigious certification, applied real scrutiny to everything we known as ISO 9001, is awarded by do, shadowing staff logging calls and external independent assessors. thoroughly examining our auditing. Fundamentally, it is an internationally “But ISO certification goes much fur- respected Quality Assurance Award, ther than that, it means that we, as a that Apex is achieving the highest level department, are subject to continual of customer satisfaction in relation to review and monitoring – putting the the delivery of our maintenance and onus on us to continue to maintain repairs service. Kevin Butler - Director of Apex’s Property Services Department and improve on the high standards we In recent years we have made a sub- (seated centre) with members of Apex’s Property Services team have been recognised for. It ensures stantial investment in staff training not just that we fully comply with the and introduced more efficient mech- highest regulations, but that, there is anisms for recording electronic infor- Apex attains ISO 9001 certification for its no room for slippage. mation. We are continuously devel- maintenance and repairs service “Gaining certification is very oping our Quality Management sys- rewarding for our team and the tem while building relationships with Special emphasis was put on the Danielle McGinley, led the depart- organisation as a whole. But, ulti- residents and tenants, as well as new promptness of Responsive Repairs and ment’s application for ISO certifica- mately, it is our tenants that will suppliers and contractors. how we managed our Cyclical and tion. benefit most. The assessors also visited new proper- Planned Maintenance programme of Mr Butler thanked Ms McGinley “It is in effect, an undertaking that ties in Clon Elagh and well established works. and the entire team, for the sustained we fulfil our promises, promptly and properties in Cornshell Fields, to factor Director of Property Services, Kevin effort that resulted in certification. efficiently.” tenant responses into their assessment. Butler and Property Services Assistant “ISO certification recognises that we 10 The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 Development

each year Apex AWARD WINNING makes A £multi-million DEVELOPMENTS contribution to NI economy – sustaining around 500 construction jobs annually. during 2017-2018, apex started 477 New homes With Apex strives A construction to meet the value of £46.6m. demand for social housing in areas of acute need, with high-quality energy-saving homes

AT the beginning of 2018-2019 APEX had 20 housing schemes under construction providing 747 new homes

APEX AIMS TO MakE housing-led regeneration work for all Across Northern Ireland, Apex is unemployed or those leaving education. delivering hundreds of quality new Apex is developing key wasteland homes, cultivating social cohesion sites in disadvantaged urban commu- and spurring regeneration in both nities across Northern Ireland. We are urban and rural communities. delivering high-quality new homes at Our building programme provides a these locations; which is helping to drive significant boost to the Northern Ireland economic regeneration in surround- economy, sustaining hundreds of jobs ing areas. Through the Department for across the construction industry in the Communities’ ‘Housing for All’ initiative, building trades and professional servic- Apex is attempting to lay the foundation es. Additionally, Apex’s commitment to stones for a shared future; supporting the ‘Social Clause’ programme results in initiatives that foster diversity in a cultur- Handover to tenant on Hallidays Road, Belfast from (centre) Ray Forbes - Apex Director of Development & Procurement and Myles McIlwee, Senior Housing Officer, Apex many opportunities for the long-term ally-enriched society.

Building homes that support award winning development team activity and friendship in later life

With more people living longer, couples in the 55-plus age group. more active lives, Apex is facilitat- Typically these are people who want ing new lifestyle choices for over to maximise their independence in 55s. a safe, secure environment, without Members of Apex’s award winning development team - seated from left: Brian O’Connor, With work beginning on a new the need for scheme support, but Karen Kyle, Jennifer Thompson, Lynda Mullan. Standing from left: Una Sweeney, Thomas Doherty, development of 15 self-contained with plenty of opportunity for com- Sheona McKinney, Lynn Doherty, Siobhan Porter, Shirley Fulton, Ray Forbes and Yvonne Roulston. apartments at Fennel Drive, Antrim, panionship and friendship building. Apex’s development team cele- and ‘Best Small Development’ for Apex continues to lead the way in Apex Director of Development, Ray brated a double win at 2018 North Queen Park on North Queen providing modern options for our Forbes explained: “At Fennel Drive, Chartered Institute of Housing Street, Belfast. The CIH Awards recog- active elderly. we hope to build on the popularity of awards. nise outstanding people and organ- Independent living communities our active elderly accommodation at Apex won ‘Best Large Development’ isations in the housing sector across offer contemporary, age-restrict- Rathmullan Drive, in Rathcoole, this for Clon Elagh in Derry-Londonderry the island of Ireland. ed apartment-living to singles and time in a tranquil, semi-rural setting” The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 11 Development Apex delivers new homes between East Belfast spires

St Matthew’s Church and surrounds

Westbourne Presbyterian Church and surrounds With the co-operation of St Matthews and Westbourne churches in East Belfast, Apex’s high quality homes lay the founds of regeneration By working alongside church, “Once we opened up discussions, the high level of expertise to planning and interest in new homes here.” community and political leaders views and expectations of the commu- designing the development on Susan On the other side of the Peace Wall, on either side of the East Belfast nities they represented, were incorpo- Street, but they also had a common many of those sentiments were echoed Peace Wall at Lower Newtownards rated into every aspect of the plans.” sense approach. by Patrick ‘Tucker’ Devlin, Chairperson Road, Apex has been able to build Rev Mervyn Gibson, Minister of “They demonstrated a genuine grasp of St Matthew’s Housing Association, much-needed new homes on for- Westbourne Presbyterian Church, also of the sensitivities in the area and an who said the houses on Bryson Street mer church grounds. known as the ‘Shipyard Church’, said appreciation of its history too. The peo- had engendered “a lot of positivity”. Westbourne Presbyterian Church Apex had earned the trust of the com- ple who live in and around this church “To date 11 properties have been agreed to the demolition of their munity early on: “Whatever Apex do are very proud of their heritage. We transferred from Apex to St Matthew’s church hall that had become expen- on one side of the ‘Wall’… they do on want to share the story of this commu- HA and allocated to delighted new res- sive to run and maintain, allowing idents. Apex to begin the construction of six “There is very high demand for houses at Susan Street. affordable, good quality, social hous- Meanwhile, on the opposite side of ing in this wider area.” the Peace Wall, Apex had already com- Although earlier attempts to stim- pleted 11 new homes on a vacant site ulate regeneration in the area had beside St Matthews church, and is now failed, Mr Devlin is confident the new seeking planning permission for the homes will “uplift” the area further. conversion of the parochial house to “For more than ten years, this deso- provide a further eight apartments. The corner between Mountford Apex demonstrated a genuine late site had been a blight on the com- Taking the views of everyone munity. It had been developed into a “Road and Bryson Street is now “grasp of the sensitivities in complex of small business units but Given long-standing political sensi- completely revitalised. I have to the area and an appreciation tivities in the area and the imposing they had deteriorated badly and were presence of the ‘Wall’, the twin hous- say Apex did a fantastic job. of its history too. lying empty for many years. “A lot of pedestrians take this route ing projects represented one of the Patrick ‘Tucker’ Devlin, Chairperson of St Matthew’s HA Rev Mervyn Gibson, Minister of Westbourne Presbyterian most challenging inner city develop- to the nearby chapel and it was an eye- sore. That corner between Mountford ments Apex has undertaken. the other. That’s a very good principle nity and the impact they made around Road and Bryson Street is now com- Apex Director of Development, Ray to begin with and it’s something we the world. I’ve been involved in the pletely revitalised. Apex did a fantastic Forbes said: “We knew we could only saw carried through every stage of this ‘Titanic People’ project for some time job, and we are working with them on deliver schemes in politically sensitive process. and it has immense tourist potential. the development of some more new areas with the support of church, polit- “In recent years the church hall had “Ray and the team were very inter- homes. ical and community leaders, and local become surplus to requirements and ested in the wider vision we have for “It’s great to see key, disused sites people. there was support in the community the area, and I found working with brought back into use for the benefit of “Fortunately we found that local for having it demolished. Ray and his him to be a very enjoyable experience. local people and the houses have defi- people and their leaders, genuinely team listened to what the community “It has been good to see young fam- nitely had an uplifting impact here.” shared our vision and wanted the best needed and they were open and trans- ilies whose parents, maybe grandpar- for their respective communities. parent in negotiations. They brought a ents, had been raised here taking a real 12 The Apex Observer | Summer 2018 Staff

Apex honours ‘hero’ of House in the Wells Described as the “heart and soul” at football or snooker. He was just of a pioneering hostel opened in very good at being Tommy and hav- 1972 to support male street drink- ing time and feeling for the mul- ers, Apex pays tribute to Tommy titude of faces that humanity pre- McCay, who died earlier this year. sents. It didn’t do any harm that he Tommy was one of the founding had a constant twinkle in his eye and members of the House in the Wells, a great sense of humour. now an Apex-managed facility “But Tommy’s forte, his real voca- catering to the needs of homeless tion, was with street drinkers. He men facing ill-health and addiction. was the heart and soul of an organ- Located in Derry-Londonderry’s isation that housed men who had a Bogside, the ‘House’ provides strong weakness, as they used to say, accommodation and a range of sup- for the drink. It was in the heart of port services to residents. the Bogside when the troubles were For more than four decades it has the norm. been a lifeline for hundreds of indi- “With a small band of men and viduals struggling with addiction women, Tommy created an environ- and their families. ment that was as warm and welcom- Tommy was one of a small group of ing as such a house can be. Anton- volunteers which included Joanna Wallich-Clifford, the founder of the Carlin, Jim McCready and Denis Simon community said that it was Bradley whose vision drove what the best such hostel that he had ever was, locally, a first-of-its-kind hostel. seen… “He was an outstanding man. Within the ‘House’, the welcom- Left: Tommy McCay one of the founding members of the House in the Wells, If I did heroes, Tommy would be up who sadly died on 23 January 2018. Tommy is photographed here with ing, respectful and supportive ethos Paddy Downey - Apex Senior Support Worker at House in the Wells in the first division.” established by those founding mem- Originally occupying a crum- bers, subsequent volunteers and bling old townhouse in the Wells, staff, has prevailed to this day. celebrating many milestones with “During the years of the troubles, the ‘House’ was rebuilt by Apex in Tommy remained a very frequent residents and staff over the years. Tommy helped out in a youth club in 1982 to provide 14 single rooms in visitor to the ‘House’ until the final Writing in the Irish News in March, the Bogside. The young ones loved the main building and five self-con- years of his life, going on trips and lifelong friend, Denis Bradley wrote: him. It wasn’t that he was very good tained chalets for shared living.

Charities helped by Apex fundraising

Support worker honoured for services to homeless

Coney McDaid - Support Worker at Apex’s Foyle Valley House receives her CHNI Award for Addiction Services from Elaine Taylor, Bronagh McLaughlin and Louise Smith Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District Council, Cllr Maoliosa McHugh of Apex’s Personnel Department, present a cheque for An Apex support worker in in the Guildhall and was attended £121.78 to Rachael Dobbins and Christina McKeegan of Foyle Search and Rescue. Foyle Valley House won a special by representatives from local hos- award for services in the field of tels and services throughout the addiction support at the most city and district. Two very worthy charities - Foyle In April, Autism NI marked recent Council for the Homeless Coney McDaid, a Support Worker Search and Rescue and Autism NI, World Autism Awareness Month by NI awards. CHNI is an umbrel- from Foyle Valley House received benefited from Apex-organised encouraging workplaces to hold a la group, working with home- the award for Addiction Services. fundraising events in recent ‘Corporate Colours Day’. The cam- less organisations throughout The judging panel: Reverend months. paign calls on businesses and organ- Northern Ireland. David Latimer, Eddie Doherty In December 2017 - A ‘Christmas isations to become more accessible Every year CHNI hosts an event, (Housing Executive) and Bernie Jumpers Day’ at Apex raised £121.78 for individuals with autism, both as asking staff and service users to Heery (Council for the Homeless) all for Foyle Search and Rescue. And in valued employees and clients. nominate frontline staff who have agreed that Coney had received a April this year, Apex staff presented Apex’s head office raised £190.50 distinguished themselves in the large number of votes and attracted £410.50 to Autism NI, thanks to the on the day, while residents and delivery of various services across many complimentary and insight- combined efforts of head office, and staff of Apex’s Culmore Park, Derry- different organisations. ful comments – distinguishing her staff and residents of a sheltered Londonderry, contributed a very The latest event was hosted by the as a worthy winner. accommodation scheme in Derry- generous, £220, gathered through then mayor, Cllr Maoliosa McHugh, Londonderry. donations and fundraising.