MITIGATION P.8 RAVENHILL ROMP Apex wins Business in the Residents’ views help P.7 Community Award - The Brookhill House win PAYMENTS TO END P.6 Investing in Your Community Gold at the UK Elderly IN APRIL 2020 Award underlines Apex’s aim Accommodation to tackle disadvantage P.9 Awards

Michael and Daniel are Julie Ann & Joan cheer on P.9 here to help you the Ulster Rugby Team Building Blocks for Africa MARION IS A ‘HERO’

Issue 21: Summer 2019 Apex Housing Association

Apex is building big in Country

t riis hrh

Marh 2020

raiore Way Fiveays hoin entre

300 new homes will have a huge impact in an area with 573 families in housing stress - work to start soon at Craigmore Way,

Apex is delighted to announce that we expect space are filled with trees and plants to ensure to start construction of around 300 new homes year-long interest by way of foliage and colour, at Craigmore Way, Newry before March 2020. helping attract wildlife to the area, and give our The site is close to the city centre and is adja- residents a delightful environment in which to cent to the Fiveways’ Shopping Centre which bring up their families. Apex will manage and will make life very convenient for our new maintain these open spaces and is particularly residents. interested in developing allotments - a great way The site commands great views over the coun- to foster good relationships in new communities. tryside and will include a cycle path which Social Housing was requested by local planners, and at some The well designed modern development will stage will connect to a new green network in provide first class, energy efficient homes for and around Newry. The development will con- those who have been identified by the Housing tain a large central communal garden with a Ray Forbes - Apex’s Development & Procurement Director; and Executive as being in housing stress, and will well equipped children’s play area. Apex has Kevin Watson - CEO of KWG - design and build contractor for a new go some way to alleviate the acute shortage of development of around 300 homes at Craigmore Way, Newry employed landscape designers to ensure that the affordable homes to buy or rent in the Newry area. central communal area and other areas of open CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 2 The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 First things first Ready to respond to challenges At its meeting in March 2019, my homes for sale through our subsid- We are committed to working with HIGHLIGHTS Board approved the Apex Plan iary Fairbuild Homes (NI), and in the our tenants and key stakeholders to 2019/2020 setting out what we hope coming period will see an increase in build sustainable communities. During Community to achieve in this the final year of our this provision. We will also continue the coming year we will further devel- 04 current Corporate Strategy. to explore new opportunities to meet op engagement with key sectoral stake- Housing housing need. holders and our tenants to build strong John Meehan While demand for housing has and resilient communities where poten- Chairman of Apex Associations increased, so too has the need for our tial is maximised and people can fulfil tenancy support services. The imple- their aspirations. Integration mentation of Welfare Reform and While we are focused on responding in particular the introduction of the to the challenges facing those in gen- Project (HAIP) Benefit Cap and Universal Credit, have eral family housing, we are also cog- increased demand for our services. nisant of the significant challenges fac- While to date only 10 percent of Apex ing our supported living services. There tenants have been impacted by the has been no uplift in Supporting People roll out of Universal Credit, we expect funding this year following a five per- this to increase to around 70 percent. cent cut to services in 2018/19, and no Apex is at the centre of meeting In addition, approximately 25 percent increase since 2008. In effect there has an increasing housing need. of Apex tenants are impacted by the been a funding cut of approximately “In the last year alone, Apex ‘Social Sector Size Criteria’ - otherwise 30 percent in real terms over the last completed 340 new social homes known as the ‘Bedroom Tax’. Apex 10 years. At the same time rising costs, and started a further 524. currently receives around £1m per year particularly as a result of increases in Cross-cultural activities John Meehan, Chairman of Apex in Welfare Supplementary Payments pension costs and the minimum wage facilitated through HAIP (also known as mitigation payments) have also impacted on budgets. from DfC to cover the reduction in the Apex provides housing support ser- As we reflected on the challenges amount of benefits that tenants are vices to some of the most vulnerable in 12 New Directors faced by our tenants and those who use receiving. However the mitigation society. In many cases this is delivered our services it became crystal clear that measures are due to end in March 2020 alongside care in specifically designed We welcome two new our vision, mission and values are more and responsibility for paying this £1m accommodation, providing a holistic faces to Apex’s senior relevant than ever and must continue shortfall will fall to our tenants. This service to meet the complex needs of management team; Donna to underpin everything we do. will inevitably place additional pres- tenants and residents. The lack of any Matthewson as Director of Despite years of investment by gov- sures on already stretched household increase in Supporting People fund- Housing and Deirdre Walker ernment and housing associations incomes and on Apex’s ability to collect ing is placing such services at risk. The as Director of Supported across , housing need the rent due. implications of such an outcome needs Living. is increasing. Apex is at the centre in The delivery of effective and to be realised and responded to now. meeting this need. In the last year efficient housing management My Board is committed to respond- alone, Apex completed 340 new social services, coupled with the additional ing positively to the challenges that lie homes and started a further 524. In services we provide through our ahead. We will continue to work with 10 & 11 considering how we make best use of Community Investment Strategy to government, our funders, partner Development News the resources available to us, we have help sustain tenancies and build vibrant organisations, our tenants and service developed, and are delivering a range communities are more important than users and our staff team to ensure the of innovative solutions. Through our Shared Housing ever. The planned roll out of Universal best use of the resources we have and FairShare model of shared ownership Credit and the ending of mitigation explore opportunities to further sup-

11 we have supported 60 households to payments will increase the challenges port our tenants and those who require The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 The Apex Observer | Summer 2019

10 Development

Development lenadoon avenue access home ownership in the last year. for tenants, and demand for our services our services in the year ahead. 14 NEW HOMES Shared Housing - a developing story!EGLINTON COOLAFINNY MEADOWS 1 Complex Needs Home and 13 General Needs Homes We also started 22 new build affordable in the coming year.

New complex needs home Coolafinny, Eglinton Garvaghey Avenue, Portglenone 10 New Homes

derrycoole park new-build 25 NEW HOMES programme rathcoole creating much needed homes We are delighted to have started construction of over 500 new-build homes during the period April 2018 to March 2019. This is an Apex building big in Mourne Country - 300 new homes excellent achievement; down to the hard work and commitment of colleagues across Apex, Housing Executive and Department for Glenbank Place - Belfast Communities. The construction programme 5 New Homes will create around 500 employment opportunities for a range of building trades and professions at a time of increasing Community Fun day uncertainty. We look forward to completing the new homes and providing well maintained, energy efficient accommodation CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 room for the electric wheelchair.” for those in housing need. ly completed 10 homes at Gortaheran Tenants in each of Apex’s shared hous- Built almost five years ago it has become Drive in Portglenone and 14 homes at At Apex we set out to deliver our ing developments benefit from a five-year Ray Forbes a great example of how a large urban Coolafinny Meadows in Eglinton, a vil- company vision for “every person to programme of activities to support new Apex’s Director of Development & - scheme can embody the DfC’s vision for lage just outside Derry - Londonderry. enjoy great quality homes and sup and existing neighbours develop good shared housing. Such developments are Coolafinny Meadows is the first social Procurement port in vibrant, caring communities.” relationships and build sustainable com- not restricted to urban areas, as DfC is housing scheme built in the village for This sentiment is also embedded in munities. Apex works with new tenants Woodside Court - Omagh also intent on establishing shared hous- over 30 years. One tenant in particular the Department for Communities’ to help set up community structures and 14 New Homes ing developments in small towns, vil- had special reason to be happy, as he There are currently 573 families (DfC’s) Shared Housing Programme run events that respond to their aspi- lages and rural areas across Northern and his family had waited seven years for which aims to help housing associa- - rations and needs. Coolafinny Meadows’ Ireland. Apex remains strongly commit a home to suit their particular complex tions deliver more than just housing. first event, a community fun day, took - ted to the shared housing programme, needs. “We are overwhelmed with our Apex’s first shared housing develop place over Easter and was a great success. CLON ELAGH with new developments coming soon in- new home. It’s so spacious with plenty of ment was the 67-home Ballynafoy Close Antrim and Omagh. We have also recent 3-PHASE Development development off Ravenhill Road, Belfast. 10 homes at Fennel Road, Antrim; and 14 Derry~Londonderry homes at Woodside Avenue, Omagh are due to complete in the coming months. The new shared housing development in housing stress in Newry and this Spreading the - at Fennel Road is on the edge of a conser Ethos of shared vation area within Antrim town centre. housing This development of 13 new bungalows The delivery of shared housing is for active elderly tenants and one family developments across Northern Ireland requiring a complex needs home. is an action in the Draft Programme The site for the development at for Government 2016 - 2021. Apex Woodside Avenue, Omagh was a former CLON DARA industrial depot and its new residential development will drastically cut the is committed to playing a significant part in meeting DfC’s annual target use fits in well with surrounding hous- 144 NEW HOMES of around 200 shared social housing es. The development has 14 apartments units per year as part of the Social built over two storeys and is due to com- Housing Development Programme. plete in early summer 2019. Woodside Avenue, Omagh In addition to the three shared housing Fennel Road, Antrim schemes already in place - two further developments are nearing completion; number of people on the social hous- ing waiting list. We will be catering Community Building for different family sizes identified to Apex by the Housing Executive, and New build programme will also cater for families who need wheelchair homes. This provision, in particular, will dramatically change Contact the Editor peoples’ lives and we will work with If you have any community news occupational therapists to make sure or events you would like the Apex these homes suit each family. In the Observer to cover, please get in touch: past we have won awards for similar include a utility room, and ensuite for a large deposit, FairShare could work and will use this experience to shower room to the master bedroom. help you take the first steps into Email: [email protected] help us at Craigmore Way. They are primarily designed for first- home ownership in a way that you Telephone: 028 7130 4800 Affordable Housing time-buyers and will be eligible to can afford. For detailed information Fax: 028 7130 4801 The development will also include buy with FairShare - Apex’s shared on the scheme including details of 24 three-bedroom homes for sale. ownership scheme. If you are unable homebuyer eligibility criteria, please 10 Butcher Street These homes will feature a slightly to obtain a mortgage to buy a proper- visit www.fairshare.org.uk. Derry - Londonderry BT48 6HL different internal design and will ty outright, or have difficulty saving The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 3 Supporting you - building communities Community hubs - playing a vital role Apex is committed to working crocheting to mindfulness, exercise with local groups to help enhance classes and a programme for moth- the lives of people within the ers and babies/toddlers. There were communities in which we work. also a series of enjoyable and inform- A range of projects in Derry- ative classes organised for the local Londonderry are blossoming. Traveller community. When developing Ballymagowan, Cornshell Community Network Apex transformed derelict land to would love more residents to become create a community space for the involved in the classes and with the residents and other local people centre. If you are interested, please who live there; 38 allotments, two contact Meghan McEldowney at football pitches and a walking area. Apex - see below for contact details. Apex is delighted to support the local charity Bogside and Brandywell Coming Soon…Clon Dara Initiative (BBI) who have been man- Community Hub aging the allotments and football We are keen to hear views from pitches on our behalf. the local community on how we can BALLYMAGOWaN ALLOTMENTS HAVE make the best use of this exciting Fernabbey Community Hub BECOME A real HIVE OF ACTIVITY! new facility to meet your needs. We The Fernabbey Hub is run by local have already made changes to the BBI has made a huge success of the - providing allotment holders with charity ‘On The Streets’, who support design of the hub based on your allotments at Ballymagowan; all of the access to expertise from a visiting young people through a range of previous feedback. allotments are allocated and growing horticulturist; programmes and projects. With its If you would like to be involved produce - a real hive of activity! Over administrative base at the Fernabbey - holding an end of year harvest, in upcoming consultation events in the last year, BBI has supported tenants Hub, staff are on site to respond to attended by over 150 people; the coming weeks - please contact with growing food, and in other ways community related needs Monday Meghan McEldowney at Apex - see too, such as: - working with the local primary to Friday, 9am to 3pm. school to plant 200 trees on the site below for contact details. ‘On The Streets’ engages well - facilitation of good relations with young people locally. Recent cooking programmes; - first aid classes for allotment holders restructuring of its youth planning - holding hanging basket workshops; - bringing 450 seedlings to fruition If you would like to get involved with, group has increased the number in 2018 and 900 in 2019 or find out more about the projects of participants involved by 90%. referred to in this article, please Supported by three youth leaders, contact Meghan McEldowney the organisation follows a youth-led Cornshell Community Hub year they were delighted to host Tenant Participation Officer at Apex approach, responding to the real The Cornshell Hub is managed by a number of events in the centre Tel: 028 7130 4800 needs of young people in Fernabbey the Cornshell Community network for local people. The programme [email protected] and the wider community. run by local residents. During the of events featured everything from Prestigious BITC Award for tackling disadvantage Apex scooped the Investing and in response we have developed help ensure our estates are sustain- “The award acknowledges our in your Community Award at a substantial community investment able and vibrant. This work is just efforts in establishing the Apex Business in the Community’s 2019 programme to support those ten- as important as providing homes for Food Club, working in partnership Responsible Business Awards, held ants living in financial stress and to people.” to found the Foyle Foodbank, devel- in the International Convention oping the fantastic Ballymagowan Centre, Belfast in May. Allotments in Creggan, providing More than 600 business people lunch for local older people at Abbey from across Northern Ireland attend- House Luncheon Club, and devel- ed the annual gala dinner to see oping an affordable credit project Northern Ireland’s leading respon- with Derry Credit Union for people sible companies recognised for out- who would otherwise turn to pay- standing contributions to their peo- day and doorstep lenders. It also ple, the planet and the places where recognises the support we provide they operate. to develop two villages in Tanzania, The Investing in your Community through our ongoing partnership Award, sponsored by Caterpillar, with Children in Crossfire.” was awarded to Apex for demon- Teresa McCloskey of Apex (second from right) strating commitment to going accepts the Investing in your Community beyond core business objectives; to Award at Business in the Community’s 2019 tackle poverty and disadvantage Responsible Business Awards from Mark McClure and June Bates from Caterpillar NI and within communities, supporting Kieran Harding from Business in the Community tenants and ensuring its estates are sustainable and vibrant. Kieran Harding, Managing Teresa McCloskey from Apex com- Director, Business in the Community mented: “We are delighted to be rec- said: “I would like to congratulate ognised as a company that goes above each and every one of our winners and beyond our main business of pro- for leading the way in responsible viding homes. We know that many business practice. The standard for Apex tenants survive on low incomes, entries was phenomenally high.” 4 The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 APEX COMMUNITY

Eglinton Belfast

Belfast

Community building in our shared housing Portglenone Over Easter, tenants in our newest organised an Easter fun day with sup- has been organising monthly ‘Feel shared housing scheme, Coolafinny port from Apex. The inaugural meeting Good Fridays’ with tenants taking part completed a six-week social in Eglinton took part in a very suc- of the Portglenone Advisory Group met in mindfulness and reflexology sessions. change project with Amplify. Now they cessful bridging event for the wider in March where we shared our plans A health and well-being fair for the are working towards running a health community. and ideas with stakeholders from the wider community allowed people to and well-being gardening project. Tenants from our shared housing local area. engage directly with a range of health In all three of these developments we scheme in Portglenone have been In East Belfast we have been focussing and well-being services. have provided funding to local schools, meeting regularly with their Tenant on health and well-being. Our Tenant A group of Apex tenants, and tenants youth groups and community groups. Participation Officer - Meghan, and Participation Officer for the area, Donna from the neighbouring Radius estate

The Housing Associations Integration been reminiscing about days gone by Project (HAIP) has been launched in INTEGRATION PROJECT NOW LAUNCHED at one of our reminiscence workshops. 10 Apex neighbourhoods: Alexander in 10 APEX neighbourhoods Tenants have participated in various House, Strand Foyer, Racecourse Drive training opportunities including flags & Park, Sheriff’s Glen, Springtown and emblems workshops, OCN accredit- Court, Knockena and Clondermott ed good relations training, everyday first Park in Derry~Londonderry; Tamlough aid and paediatric first aid. Park (Ballykelly); and Carndonagh Tenants also enjoyed a night of culture Rathmullan, Milford, Kerrykeel, and at the Apex Living Centre where they Convoy in Co. Donegal. were entertained by Ulster Scots dancers and piper. Later in the evening there was live traditional Irish music as tenants enjoyed a cookery demonstration taster session. Apex is working in partnership to deliver HAIP seeks to improve cross-community the project alongside the Northern Ireland relations in social housing. It is a €1.1 mil- Federation of Housing Associations, lion project supported by the European Irish Council for Social Housing, Union’s PEACE IV Programme, which is Choice, Clanmil and Radius managed by the Special EU Programmes Derry-Londonderry Housing Associations along Body. Match funding for HAIP has been with TIDES Training and provided by the Executive Office in have been delivered to enable tenants to Apex has delivered a wide Consultancy. Northern Ireland and the Department for discuss the findings from the audits and range of community build- Rural and Community Development in address any concerns they have about ing events in participating For further information Ireland. their neighbourhoods. Tenants have communities. Apex tenants on the HAIP please contact Community audits have been complet- enjoyed several coffee mornings where in Convoy, Co. Donegal have Emer McElhinney at Apex. ed in 10 neighbourhoods providing valua- they helped plan new initiatives and been busy with their new Tel: 028 7130 4800 ble information on some of the key issues events for their local neighbourhoods, community garden whilst Waterside email: [email protected] facing tenants. Audit feedback workshops and got to know their neighbours better. tenants in Derry~Londonderry have The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 5 If you would like to request a copy of a photograph in the Apex Observer, please contact Alison McKenna - Communications Manager at Apex: APEX COMMUNITY Tel: 028 7130 4800 or email: [email protected]

New Community House in Community House Coolcullen Coolcullen Meadow... Meadow

Louise Nethercott - Good Relations Officer, outside the new Community House in Coolcullen Meadow, Enniskillen

With funding from the Department will be fully operational over the summer. please stop by the new community house would also love to hear any suggestions for Communities ‘Housing for All’ pro- The focus of the project is community and have a chat with Louise. The regular you may have! gramme, Apex Housing Association cohesion and bringing together people opening hours will be finalised soon and In the coming weeks, we’re hoping res- and the Migrant Centre NI have com- from different backgrounds; to take pride Louise will inform all residents. In the idents of all ages and backgrounds will menced an exciting new project in in their local community, learn about meantime feel free to email Louise with participate in a community survey to find Coolcullen Meadow, Enniskillen. each other’s experiences and lives; and suggestions: [email protected] out what you feel are priorities for this The project started on 1st March visit other areas to hear firsthand about The official launch of the premises will new project. In the coming months we 2019 with the appointment of Louise good relations projects that have created take place over the summer and we will will be organising workshops, activities Nethercott as the Good Relations Officer stronger communities and improved the be encouraging everyone to come along and events where residents can share for the local area. Louise will be based experiences of residents living there. on the day with activities organised for and celebrate together. We encourage part-time in a new community house at If you live in Coolcullen Meadow and all ages. We have yet to name our new everyone to get involved in shaping this 24 Coolcullen Meadow, which we hope would like to get involved in the project, project and community house, so Louise project from these early stages.

from ‘doon to durban’ - to work on vital youth projects

Glen Parent Youth Group is planning Tyler Burns, one of the young people its first international overseas trip to travelling, has named the project Gardening Competition 2019 South Africa in August, and Apex has ‘Doon to Durban’ and says he is over- It’s that Bloomin’ time of year... Tenants living in Apex’s supported supported the two-week trip by pro- whelmed to be chosen for the trip: Apex invites budding gardeners to living schemes can enter the category viding a donation of £1,000 to pur- “Who in Lenadoon can say they’ve been enter our annual gardening compe- for Supported Living. chase clothing for those travelling. to South Africa?” tition. Tenant’s living in Apex’s Prizes Eight young people from the group, Brendan Haughey from Apex said: general needs developments can The winners of each of the four based in the Glen Community Complex, “We are very pleased to be able to enter up to three categories: categories will receive a Homebase will work in Durban’s child and youth support the group’s trip to South Africa. - Best Kept Garden voucher to the value of £50.00. care centre which caters for over 70 The trip will no doubt give the young young people who have suffered abuse. people travelling a different perspective - Best Hanging Basket To Enter The group will also visit townships and on youth work and poverty that they - Most Original Feature To enter our gardening competition, rehabilitation centres to gain insight otherwise would not have.” please contact your housing officer. into other poverty stricken areas. The closing date for receipt of entries is Friday, 16th August 2019. 6 The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 APEX COMMUNITY

Mullagh House tenants at Ulster Rugby match

Tenants and staff from Mullagh House recently attended an Ulster Rugby match at the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast, thanks to a kind donation from a friend of the scheme.

Tenants Joan Bloomfield, Julie Ann Lyttle and William Cushnahan were transformed from devoted armchair supporters to pitchside Mullagh House tenants spectators for the day and had a fantastic time! Julie Ann Lyttle & Joan Bloomfield with Sparky at Kingspan! Their next goal is to attend an Ireland Rugby match in the near future.

Residents Annie McClennaghan

and Carmel O’Kane open day AT creggmount

Creggmount sheltered scheme in Claudy held its annual Open Day on Wednesday, 20th March 2019 to promote the scheme and the benefits of living in sheltered accommodation. Sheltered housing offers independent, self-contained accommodation with low level support to tenants in From left: Maureen Mountain - Carer; and residents Ernie Curry; Jean Riley; their own home. The accommodation is built around and visitor to Creggmount a number of communal facilities which allow tenants to have their own privacy and personal space, but also have the company of other tenants where they can share common interests and experiences. The Scheme Manager is central to the support network within the Residents Evelyn O’Hagan and scheme, and maintains regular contact with tenants to Maria McCloskey provide support, advice and guidance and ensure the well-being of all tenants. In advance of the Open Day, tenants at Creggmount were busy making handmade crafts and homemade Easter decorations that were offered for sale at the event. The Open Day was well supported by the local commu- nity with a delicious afternoon tea being served, while tenants and visitors were entertained by live music.

If you would like to find out more information about sheltered accommodation for independent living at Creggmount, please contact Jenny McLean - Scheme Manager: Tel: 028 7133 7987 Email: [email protected] 4 From left: Residents Joan Crockett; Phil Chick; and Jim Coyle The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 7 If you would like to request a copy of a photograph in the Apex Observer, please contact Alison McKenna - Communications Manager at Apex: APEX COMMUNITY Tel: 028 7130 4800 or email: [email protected]

BROOKHILL HOUSE WINS GOLD!

Marion Tasker-Lynch, Scheme Manager at Brookhill House Proud residents of Brookhill House

‘National Hero’ at the awards ceremony in recognition of her significant contri- bution to the quality of life in Brookhill; Tenants take great pride in with staff, residents and volunteers all Brookhill, a place they call nominating Marion for the award. “home. Marion commented: “Tenants, staff, Delighted members of the Apex staff team at Brookhill House Marion Tasker-Lynch, Scheme Manager at Brookhill House families and friends of Brookhill are all delighted to hear that we won this pres- Apex Housing Association is celebrat- tigious award. Tenants take great pride egories. House in Coleraine ing the success of its housing with care in Brookhill, a place they call home. The won a regional Gold award, with St derful acknowledgement of the effort schemes following a win at a prestig- ‘National Hero Award’ would not have Julian’s House in Omagh receiving a they put in on a daily basis, often going ious national awards ceremony in been possible if it wasn’t for the support regional Silver award. above and beyond, for the older people Manchester in May. Brookhill House and dedication of my staff.” Deirdre Walker, Director of Supported in their care.” in Coleraine won a Gold Award at The awards, now in their ninth year, Living at Apex Housing Association, John Galvin, EAC’s Chief Executive, the Elderly Accommodation Counsel celebrate the best specialist housing commented: “It is fantastic to see our explained the importance of the awards: (EAC) Awards, being one of just nine for older people. This year, two other schemes and staff recognised for the “Specialist housing for older people Gold winners from across the UK, and Apex schemes were also recognised exceptional care and support they plays an enormously significant role the only one from Northern Ireland. by the Elderly Accommodation Council provide to older people. I’m especially in helping them stay independent for Marion Tasker-Lynch, Manager at winning Gold and Silver awards in the delighted for the staff of Brookhill House longer. “ Brookhill, was also announced as a Northern Ireland housing with care cat- on their national award as it’s a won-

“At its inception this was an idea that The joy of going generated enthusiasm and energy from to the corner tenants, staff and the local communi- ty. The existing relationship with Little shop Doves Nursery School has been greatly In early March, one of our supported enhanced and now, alongside storytelling living schemes opened a very special and games, the children visit the shop room on its premises; Cuan Court, a with their extra grannies and grandads.” facility in that provides Tenants are involved, alongside social care and support to older people care workers, in managing the day-to-day and people who have a diagnosis of running of the shop. One tenant com- dementia, unveiled its ‘Candy Cabin’. mented: “I now have a reason to get up In partnership with the South Eastern each day, it’s like going back to work. Health and Social Care Trust, Apex assist- I don’t feel useless anymore.” ed in the remodelling of a small room in the scheme to transform it into a sweetie shop for residents. The ‘Candy Cabin’ has provoked memories of days gone by for all who enter the shop, irrespective of their age. Rhonda Robinson, Manager of Cuan Court, commented: “Growing up, we all remember going to the shop for our sweeties, and we are delighted that we have been able to convert this space so Back from left: Rhonda Robinson - Manager of Cuan Court; Mayor of Ards and North Down - Councillor Richard Smart; that our service users can experience once Eileen McKay - Learning and Development Co-ordinator, South Eastern HSC Trust; Alderman Jimmy Menagh; again the joy of going to the corner shop.” staff member and children from Little Doves Nursery School. Front: Elizabeth Gillespie, tenant of Cuan Court. 8 The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 Financial Inclusion

affected by ‘BEDROOM TAX’? OR ‘BENEFIT CAP’...?

‘Bedroom Tax’ mitigation payments are due to ‘Benefit Cap’ mitigation payments are due to end in April 2020 - How might it affect you? end in April 2020 - How might it affect you?

If you live in a property with more bedrooms than you require, As part of ‘Welfare Reform’ the UK Government introduced a your entitlement to Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (UC) may limit on the total amount of benefit that working age people be reduced due to the ‘Social Sector Size Criteria’ (‘Bedroom Tax’). can receive - this is known as the ‘Benefit Cap’. Mitigation payments covering any reduction in your Housing If you are over the limit, your benefit will have been reduced and Benefit/UC, are due to end on 31st March 2020. If your circumstances you may be in receipt of mitigation payments to cover any shortfall remain the same at 1st April 2020, you will be expected to pay any in your rent. Mitigation payments are due to end on 31st March rent not covered by your Housing Benefit/UC payment. 2020. If your circumstances remain the same at 1st April 2020, you will be expected to pay any shortfall. ‘Under-occupying’ at 1st April 2020 Current eely enefit Cap • If you are under occupying 25% Coule ith or ingle arent family ingle erson ithout children 1 bedroom, your benefit will be reduced by an amount 14% equal to 14% of your rent. You will be expected to 2 pay the shortfall. • If you are under occupying by 2 bedrooms, your benefit will be reduced by an amount equal to 25% of your rent. • £384.62 per week if you are a couple (with or without children) or you are You will be expected to a lone parent with children living with you. pay the shortfall. • £257.69 a week if you are a single person and no children living with you.

BENEFIT CAP: Caroline’s Story... ‘BEDROOM TAX’: Mary & John’s Story... The rules of the Benefit Cap, week and the DfC is paying mean that Caroline’s housing £26.45 per week as a Welfare benefit is reduced by £75.76 Supplementary payment to £26.49. When mitigation (mitigation payment) for the payments end in April 2020, shortfall. Caroline will be expected to When mitigation payments make a payment of £75.76 end in April 2020, Mary and towards her rent. John will have to pay the Example Tenant: Caroline Example Tenants: Mary & John shortfall of £26.45 per week Status: Single parent + 4 children YOU SHOULD: Like Caroline, Apex Home: 3-bedroom home from their joint income, or Benefit Cap: £384.62 per week if you are affected by the Bedrooms occupied: 1 consider moving to a smaller ‘Benefit Cap’ you will need Caroline is currently in receipt of Rent: £105.82 per week property. to budget for paying any the following benefits: Housing Benefit: £79.37 per week shortfall in your housing YOU SHOULD: If your Income Support: £73.10 per/wk benefit from April 2020. Mary and John live in a 3 situation is similar to Mary Child Tax Credit: £223.23 per/wk bedroom home and their rent and John’s, you’ll need to Child Benefit: £61.80 per/wk is £105.82 per week. They are budget for a shortfall in your Housing Benefit: £102.25 per/wk currently under occupying income from April 2020, or Total: £460.38 per/wk by two bedrooms. Mary and consider moving to a smaller Cap Excess: £75.76 per/wk John are currently in receipt of property. housing benefit of £79.37 per

Apex Living is helping tenants resolve Please contact Michael Lyttle or Daniel Stronge problems with budgeting, debt, benefits, Tel: 028 7130 4800 and more! Contact one of our Welfare email: [email protected] Advice Officers today for help. email: [email protected] The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 9 Investing in Communities

supporting tenants living on low incomes or in financial stress Poor quality and insecure housing continues to be associated with low levels of educational attainment, poor health and inequality. Since its creation, Apex has invested in social housing on a large scale, con- tributing significantly to the local econ- omy whilst improving housing and the lives of thousands of people. When Apex has completed any new development and the new homes have been handed over to tenants, it is a time of new beginnings and new opportuni- ties for those tenants. But quite often we find people living in Apex homes APEX FOOD CLUB ONLINE BENEFIT APPLICATIONS who are experiencing financial stress. 108 people in financial stress were Our financial inclusion officers ASSISTED During the last year, we continued supported through Apex Food Club at assisted 146 new tenants make Apex Living Centre to develop partnerships designed to first-time applications to Universal Credit; Ulster Bank U FRU HT JU IT deliver services and support to tenants ICE UHT 27 and people who are facing difficulties. community banker helped UHT TENANTS Where services do not exist, we have 13 tenants with intensive budgeting advice; Bryson Energy INTO TRAINING worked to help develop services. helped 40 tenants save on energy OR EMPLOYMENT

Since 2001 Apex has worked our partnership with Children in and Early Childhood Development in partnership with the char- Crossfire for at least another four ity Children In Crossfire to help years and going forward we have improve the lives of people in one moved the focus of our efforts to of the poorest parts of Africa - the Missungwi - a village located in

Misungwi classroom project: APRIL Centre. The pro- fundraising Ronan McCay from Children in Crossfire visiting Mamaye Primary School in the deeply deprived ject encourages a factfile Misungwi district in the Mwanza region of Tanzania, to check on progress with the building of culture of saving, two new classrooms. Read Ronan’s blog about his recent trip to Tanzania in April villageon the of Apex Miwaleni website. in Tanzania. another ward with even greater need even small amounts, where possi- Education Tanzania is 2020 a key Visitbuilding block Over the period of 18 years, our than Miwaleni. Over the next four ble. Each woman pays in to a collec- forWe sustainable will travel communities again to Tanzania in in tenants, staff and corporate donors years, Apex will undertake to pro- tive pot contributing 200 shillings 2020Africa; to Apex’s witness ‘Building first hand Blocks the work have been at the heart of a hugely vide the funds to build nine pre-pri- per week which equates to about 6 thatfor Africa’we have appeal carried is currently out to date and impressive fundraising programme mary classrooms in Misungwi wards pence. The pot is called the social tofocussed connect on withassisting our ‘Children partners in and withKitchens £239,000 raised and invested and providing access to education for an fund and is used to fund health care localCrossfire’ communities to build 13 to classrooms better under - in the building of several important estimated 840 children per year as and education for families who are standfor four the schools kinds in theof deprivedsupport they healthcare and educational facili- well as establishing 20 community struggling within the community. wouldMisungwi like Districtgoing forward.of Tanzania. tiesboilers in Miwaleni. The long termreplaced... aim managed microfinance groups that At the same time, the project allows If you are a staff member or ten- of this investment is to help sup- will support a further 300 vulnera- for social interaction amongst the antThe of Misungwi Apex and classroom would likeproject to know port children in Miwaleni, to have ble women. women and for providing aware- morewill cost about £80,000 the possibility over a four-year of joining One project that we have contin- ness sessions on health care. theperiod trip -next with year, £22,393 feel already free to raised contact ually supported over the five years Teresain 2018, McCloskey by Apex staff at ourand tenants. offices on involves working with groups of What inspires us to continue? 028 7130 4800, who would love to enterprising women involved in the On each of our five trips to the vil- talkSince to 2001,you about Apex staff,the trip. tenants and ‘Micro Finance Project’. Apex gave lage of Miwaleni, staff and tenants corporate donors have raised a total £20,000 so that local women can were humbled through their brief of £239,000 for development projects carried out in partnership with the GET READY FOR Tanzania trip 2020 charity ‘Children in Crossfire’ in the deprived regions of Tanzania.

borrow money to set up a small busi- encounters with a world of unimagi- Micro Finance gives women ness. Typical business ventures are nable poverty and, at the same time, access to small business loans the purchase of seeds and tools so were overwhelmed and inspired by If you’ve got a fundraiser idea for that they can grow and sell food or the resilience of the people who are the ‘Building Blocks for Africa’ appeal. a £20,000good startprovided in tolife Children - the in first Crossfire steps is to the purchase of one or two chickens so incredibly keen to gain the skills please contact Teresa McCloskey buildingsupporting the the ‘Micro-Financefoundations Project’ of a morein so that they can sell eggs. The women that could improve their lives. This Miwaleni; helping groups of enterprising women at Apex. sociallyget small and business economically loans; purchasing sustaina seeds and- pay back a small amount of interest has encouraged staff and tenants to Tel: 028 7130 4800 bletools community. to grow and sell food, or one or two chickens onApex the isloans planning and a trip the to Tanzaniamoney in is2020. used If you’re want a member to continue of staff, an Apexto helptenant, andor sup- to sell eggs. corporate donor and you’d like to take part in the trip, please get in touch with Teresa McCloskey [email protected] Apex is committed to continuing to atcontribute Apex: Tel: 028 7130to the 4800 orlocal email: schools [email protected] port them further. 10 The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 Development Shared Housing - a developing story!

COOLAFINNY MEADOWS EGLINTON 1 Complex Needs Home and 13 General Needs Homes

New complex needs home Coolafinny, Eglinton

Community Fun day

At Apex we set out to deliver our Built almost five years ago it has become ly completed 10 homes at Gortaheran room for the electric wheelchair.” company vision for “every person to a great example of how a large urban Drive in Portglenone and 14 homes at Tenants in each of Apex’s shared hous- enjoy great quality homes and sup- scheme can embody the DfC’s vision for Coolafinny Meadows in Eglinton, a vil- ing developments benefit from a five-year port in vibrant, caring communities.” shared housing. Such developments are lage just outside Derry - Londonderry. programme of activities to support new This sentiment is also embedded in not restricted to urban areas, as DfC is Coolafinny Meadows is the first social and existing neighbours develop good the Department for Communities’ also intent on establishing shared hous- housing scheme built in the village for relationships and build sustainable com- (DfC’s) Shared Housing Programme ing developments in small towns, vil- over 30 years. One tenant in particular munities. Apex works with new tenants which aims to help housing associa- lages and rural areas across Northern had special reason to be happy, as he to help set up community structures and tions deliver more than just housing. Ireland. Apex remains strongly commit- and his family had waited seven years for run events that respond to their aspi- Apex’s first shared housing develop- ted to the shared housing programme, a home to suit their particular complex rations and needs. Coolafinny Meadows’ ment was the 67-home Ballynafoy Close with new developments coming soon in needs. “We are overwhelmed with our first event, a community fun day, took development off Ravenhill Road, Belfast. Antrim and Omagh. We have also recent- new home. It’s so spacious with plenty of place over Easter and was a great success.

10 homes at Fennel Road, Antrim; and 14 Spreading the homes at Woodside Avenue, Omagh are Ethos of shared due to complete in the coming months. The new shared housing development housing at Fennel Road is on the edge of a conser- The delivery of shared housing vation area within Antrim town centre. developments across Northern Ireland This development of 13 new bungalows is an action in the Draft Programme is for active elderly tenants and one family for Government 2016 - 2021. Apex requiring a complex needs home. is committed to playing a significant The site for the development at part in meeting DfC’s annual target Woodside Avenue, Omagh was a former of around 200 shared social housing industrial depot and its new residential units per year as part of the Social use fits in well with surrounding houses. Housing Development Programme. The development has 10 two-bedroom In addition to the three shared housing houses and four one-bedroom apart- schemes already in place - two further Fennel Road, Antrim Woodside Avenue, Omagh ments built over two storeys, and is due developments are nearing completion; to complete in early summer 2019. The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 11 Development

lenadoon avenue 14 NEW HOMES belfast

Garvaghey Avenue - Portglenone 10 New Homes

new-build derrycoole park programme 25 NEW HOMES creating much rathcoole needed homes We are delighted to have started construction of over 500 new-build homes during the period April 2018 to March 2019. This is an excellent achievement; down to the hard work and commitment of colleagues across Apex, Housing Executive and Department for Glenbank Place - Belfast 5 New Homes Communities. The construction programme will create around 500 employment opportunities for a range of building trades and professions at a time of increasing uncertainty. We look forward to completing the new homes and providing well maintained, energy efficient accommodation for those in housing need. Ray Forbes Apex’s Director of Development & Procurement St Brecan’s Park - Derry~Londonderry 78 New Homes

CLON ELAGH 3-PHASE Development Derry~Londonderry

CLON DARA 144 NEW HOMES 12 The Apex Observer | Summer 2019 Staff Introducing the new directors at Apex Two highly experienced indi- Assistant Director for Care and viduals have been appointed to Accommodation. Deirdre started in Apex’s senior management team; the Trust in 1993 as a care assistant, Donna Matthewson as Director of and following completion of her Housing and Deirdre Walker as social work degree, worked in var- Director of Supported Living. ious roles including as a dementia Director of Housing unit manager, social worker in the Apex’s new Director of Housing, community with older people, co-or- Donna Matthewson began her dinator for the Trust’s reablement housing career in 1998 as a front team and as Head of Service for Care line housing officer with West & Accommodation in Older People. Lothian Council in Scotland, and Deirdre is responsible for the more recently worked for Glasgow provision of care, housing support Housing Association as an area and accommodation within Apex’s housing manager, and subsequent- Supported Living service. She is ly as locality housing director. also responsible for ensuring com- Donna’s main responsibilities at pliance with legislative and best Apex are to ensure the effective and practice standards, and for working efficient delivery of housing man- in partnership with the statutory, agement, including: allocations; community and voluntary sectors. estate management; rent collection; “Apex is a very person centred anti-social behaviour; and void man- organisation. It has a social heart in agement. Donna is also responsible that it not only provides housing, but for tenant participation and related provides a holistic approach to sup- services to tenants, residents and porting people in their communi- stakeholders; and the delivery of ties. Coming from a social work back- Apex’s community investment initi- ground my values are very much in atives to make a positive difference Newly appointed directors at Apex: Deirdre Walker, Director of Supported Living; and Donna line with those of the organisation Matthewson, Director of Housing. to people’s lives. and I hope to work in partnership “Everyone at Apex is passionate tenant participation. At Apex, we have Director of Supported Living with others to further enhance the about making a real difference to our the huge potential to make a real dif- Apex’s new Director of Supported level of support and care that we tenants’ lives. For me, Apex is more ference to people’s lives, and I hope Living Deirdre Walker joins Apex provide to tenants to enable them to than just a social landlord with a strong to build on that by truly listening and from the Western Health and live fulfilled lives within their com- focus on community investment and responding to the tenants’ voice.” Social Care Trust where she was munities.”

Alison McKenna Staff fundraising for charities Frances Murray from Apex presents a donation to Foyle Foodbank. Can we communicate better? During 2018, Apex staff members the Misungwi district of Tanzania. and schemes hosted and partici- Thank you to all staff and tenants Alison is going out and about... pated in a number of fundraising who supported our fundraising dur- Apex has recently appointed its staff and tenants about how we can events and raised over £1,000 for ing 2018, and we welcome any sup- first Communications Officer communicate better with you. various local and national char- port you can give during 2019. with the aim of improving the ities close to our hearts. way in which we communicate If you would like to invite Alison And our giving didn’t stop there; If you have an idea for a fundraiser with tenants, staff and the gener- McKenna to your scheme or to an Apex continues its support for you’d like to host during 2019, please al public. upcoming event / meeting - you ‘Children in Crossfire’ with staff rais- contact Bronagh McLaughlin if Alison McKenna brings over a dec- can get in touch by phone or ing a massive £22,393 during 2018 you’re a staff member; or Rachael ade of communications experience to email: through donations, raffles and other Power if you’re a tenant or resident. the organisation, and in the coming Tel: 028 7130 4800 fundraising. This is a huge sum of Tel: 028 7130 4800 months will be out and about in Apex [email protected] money which will go a long way in [email protected] communities and schemes talking to helping the lives of people living in