Winter 2017 The newsletter for Oaklee Housing

New family Homes for

Winter Weather Fire Safety Community Out and Advice at Home Grants About! Page 12 Page 14 Page 16 Page 17

Sharing Our Success Page 03 Delivering New Homes Page 05 Managing Debt Page 06 New Homes for Kilkenny Page 08 oaklee.ie Colouring Competition Page 20 01 400 2650 A message Working from our Chief together SHARING for positive Executive Officer change. ABBEY Sharon Cosgrove OUR SUCCESS VILLAGE Welcome to the Winter 2017 If you would like to help peaceful festive season. edition of Oaklee News. shape the future of Oaklee and our services then please Oaklee were delighted that Abbey Village was homes. By creating tenancies for people with shortlisted at the recent Irish Council for Social intellectual disabilities and re-designating former As CEO it is my responsibility get involved. You can find out more about tenant involvement Housing’s annual awards, in the Collaboration & sheltered living homes, Oaklee and partners created to ensure that all our homes Partnership Initiative for Delivery category. an innovative solution to an otherwise significant are of a high standard, well through the Tenant Forum section of our website and void problem. maintained and that our We welcome Abbey Village is nestled in Kilmacrenan, County throughout this edition. services are responsive to your input Donegal and provides housing options for a wide The awards were held in September and opened your needs. Oaklee strives for client base, from family housing and sheltered by the Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy at the The lead up to Christmas, is an excellence and continuous This is the Oaklee Housing living accommodation to supported homes for those Strand Hotel, Limerick. Although unsuccessful expensive time for everyone, improvement is something we newsletter, Oaklee News, which with disabilities. Originally planned primarily as on the night, it was a fantastic opportunity to so we have a few articles give great attention to. we will be sending you twice a a scheme for families and sheltered living, Abbey showcase our work and in particular the positive which give information, advice year. We hope to provide you Village is now a cohesive community for all. partnerships with Donegal HSE and Donegal County Getting our tenants involved in and helpful tips, we hope with a range of interesting and Council. Abbey Village sets an excellent example of our decision making process is you will find useful. We have enjoyable articles that provide As the scheme was in development Oaklee inclusive housing for all and demonstrates how each vital to improving our services information on the new Credit important information, reports recognised the low demand for the sheltered living individual is an integral part of any community. and tenant feedback is used Union initiative, on managing on staff and residents, offer by our staff to understand debt with the help of MABS, as hints and tips about lifestyle and respond to your needs. In well as advice and information and include the occasional Oaklee we offer a number of on how to save energy and competition and quiz. opportunities for tenants to money. engage and we call this our Please let us know what you ‘Menu of Involvement’, which Finally, you will see that we think of this initiative and how includes estate walkabouts, have opened a number of new you feel your newsletter can be editorial team and the Tenants’ developments in Kilkenny, improved further. We welcome Forum. Our Housing team works Carrick on Suir and elsewhere letters, recipes, photos or other closely with tenants in our around the country. We also contributions from you to make these publications feel closer housing schemes around the have a number of developments to you. country so that we can assist under construction with a significant number to be you with local events and GET IN TOUCH encourage you to get involved. completed in 2018. You can read more on pages Oaklee Housing, 16 about setting up residents 132 James’s Street, groups and availing of our Wishing you all the very Dublin community grants scheme. best for a happy and DO8 PK25 T: 01 400 2650 E: [email protected] www.oaklee.ie

Abbey Village in Kilmacrenan

Page 2 oaklee.ie Page 3 oaklee.ie Since the last edition of our newsletter a number of developments have How we’re performing Delivering New Homes been handed over and tenants have been Our Development Team are working on new housing able to move into their Oaklee Housing are at the forefront in the provision of social housing and new homes. schemes to deliver much-needed homes across Ireland. are committed to delivering quality housing and excellent customer services that enhance the lives of customers and communities. Family Homes Cluainin, Mountrath, Much Needed Homes It is important that your voice, in relation to our services, is heard as the It is important feedback that we receive is vital for Oaklee Housing to identify and correct that your voice, in Co. Kilkenny Almost Complete Coming to Ballymun, any problems within our service delivery and to ensure that we meet the in relation to our Located on the outskirts of the Due for completion in January 2018, Dublin 9 services, is heard. needs of all our customers. village of Kilkenny, this development will bring 21 new Oaklee are proud to provide 42 the Moneenroe development sits homes to the small town much needed homes in Ballymun, Customer Enquiries on the Castlecomer-Athy road. of Mountrath, . Dublin. This general-needs This development consists of nine This development holds 21 development is a mixture of bungalows consisting of 2 and 3 dwellings in total, consisting of apartments and houses. Target Target Target bed dwellings, providing general two and three-bed houses. These 85% 85% 14 needs support. Additionally, This development is on track for dwellings are a mix of semi- these properties have been completion in March 2018, while detached, end-of-terrace and 77.8% 89.2% 8 designed to allow for disabled allocations’ for occupancy is terraced properties. Additionally, access, in order to meet the needs scheduled for April 2018. parking facilities will be available of all prospective tenants. to prospective tenants. This project is due for completion New Homes This development is approaching of enquiries resolved at of customers satisfaction average working days at the end of November, just in its final stages meaning the tenants on Poplar Row first point of contact rating of Oaklee Housing to respond to stage 1 time for the Christmas season. will have a happy new year in their Poplar Row is a sheltered Services Centre complaints happy new homes in 2018. accommodation project, aimed to meet the general Customer Services Gas Safety Human Resources The Galleries The needs of over 55’s. Located in Galleries, Ballybough, this development Donabate Dublin Dublin has easy access to Connolly Target Target Located in North Dublin, station and Dublin’s city centre 95% 100% The Galleries, Donabate is an via a range of bus transport idyllic apartment complex links. 94% situated close to many local This development will provide amenities in the Donabate Village. 29 new homes and is scheduled

92% 0.69% This site involves the development for completion March 2019, and overall sickness of gas boilers were of 43 spacious apartments, ranging Oaklee Housing has an exciting absence in the year Call Advisor Call Quality serviced within a year from one to three bed dwellings. Fully furnished homes road ahead in the delivery of This development is progressing ready in time for this much-needed development. Repairs smoothly, and is on schedule for Christmas completion July 2018. The Station Court development in Due March Gorey, Co. Wexford, comprises of 14 Target Target Target 2019 homes and range from 1 to 3 bed 93% 92% 92% apartments. On-site surface and underground car parking is provided and the properties will be leased 90% 90% 96% furnished to tenants. Emergency repairs Urgent repairs Routine repairs A number of tenants have moved completed within completed within completed within Due into their new homes and it is 24 Hours 4 working days 20 working days July planned that Station Court will be 2018 fully occupied for the Christmas The performance figures are for the period April 2017 - September 2017 season.

Page 4 oaklee.ie Page 5 oaklee.ie Support for Managing Debt & Budgeting your Finances

We all know people can get into money difficulty all too easily – from falling behind with your rent or getting into difficulty with paying loans back. Money difficulties can affect everyone, from people on low incomes to high-income earners. It can have an impact on people’s mental health and overall wellbeing.

Money difficulties can arise for various reasons, such as illness, unemployment, relationship breakdown, a drop in income, or increased expenditure due to lifestyle spending.

Dealing with Mortgage and rent arrears is particularly important because you could lose your home if you do not keep up your payments.

Accessing Advice confidential. With more than sixty How to use MAB services The Money Advice Process offices all around the country, MABS There are three ways of getting and Support are available in every county. They support from MABS also have a website – www.mabs.ie Following your first appointment, the MABS Adviser will Sometimes we need advice and and their Helpline can be contacted 1. MABS Website develop a plan to work with you. The adviser will try to support to sort our financial Contact Oaklee Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm - T: www.mabs.ie problems out - sharing your achieve two things through the money advice process: 0761 07 2000. You’ll find easy to use advice Housing if you are concerns can help – it may be the and tips on this site, with lots kick-start you need to sort out finding it difficult Firstly, to support you in finding a sustainable solution How can MABS assist? of resources to help you to help • your money problems and get MABS works with people who may yourself. The website offers lots of to pay your rent. to your problem debt back on an even keel. be struggling with debt or who need tools for managing your money. In relation to managing rent help in managing their money. They 01 400 2650 arrears, Oaklee Housing staff are • Secondly, help you develop your skill and knowledge so you also talk to government and lenders 2. The MABS Helpline available to provide assistance to find better solutions for those The MABS Helpline is open Monday can have better control over your money and support and agree a realistic who have money problems, as well to Friday, 9am to 8pm, and can be payment agreement to help you as developing tools and resources reached on 0761 07 2000. Helpline The Money Adviser will work with you to prepare a budget and a clear arrears if you fall behind. to help people avoid getting in over Advisers will ask some initial Please always contact Oaklee If you are experiencing financial statement; this will form the basis of any negotiation their heads. questions to work out the nature Housing if you are finding it of your problem, and determine financial difficulties, or if undertaken with any creditor. difficult to pay your rent. MABS does not give out any money how best to assist you. You might you have fallen behind with – instead, they; work with clients use this service because you have When you require additional your rent or other payments, Once a negotiation has been completed, the Money Adviser will to ensure that they are getting all received a letter or a call from a assistance in relation to financial assist you in setting up a payment system to keep to that new income they are entitled to, that creditor, or maybe you’ve missed then get in touch with Oaklee difficulties, we will refer you to they are getting the best value out a payment and are unsure what to Housing staff agreement. You will be supported for as long as you need, post- the Money Advice and Budgeting of this income, and in working out do next. In some cases, the Adviser agreement, and MABS will continue to provide assistance as Service (MABS). Tel: 01 400 2650, sustainable payment plans with may believe that you would benefit your circumstances change. creditors, where debt becomes a from meeting face -to-face with one alternatively you can What is MABS? problem. of the advisors in the MABS offices. get independent advice The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS), is a free money and from MABS 3. MABS Local Offices debt advice service. MABS work MABS Local Offices operates a Tel: 0761 07 2000, with all kinds of people, who may network of 65 offices all around www.mabs.ie have all kinds of personal debt. the country. Each office is staffed The service is independent, with no by a team of Money Advisers and links to any banks or credit unions, Administrators, all trained and and all dealings with MABS are highly skilled in their work.

Page 6 Page 7 oaklee.ie The nine new bungalows at Moneenroe, near authorities, government agencies and developers to Castlecomer, are due for completion during the winter accelerate the delivery of social and affordable homes New Homes for Kilkenny 2017 and include a mix of two and three-bedroom units. for a range of needs. We believe a collaborative approach Meanwhile at Logan Street, Thomastown, we acquired a can enable us to provide an effective response to the scheme that was abandoned during the downturn and Rebuilding Ireland agenda. Minister of State at the Department of Housing, and Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS); and will now provide 21 new homes comprising of a mix of Planning and Local Government with responsibility the Housing Finance Agency. one, two and three-bedrooms apartments. “These are two exciting developments that will provide for Local Government and Electoral Reform, John Paul 30 much-needed new homes that can support a range Phelan T.D. visited to view progress Minister Phelan noted: Sharon Cosgrove, our Chief Executive said: of tenures in Kilkenny. We look forward to welcoming at two social housing projects being developed by the tenants and officially opening the schemes later “The housing crisis is one of the key challenges “There are many demands for housing in today’s society Oaklee Housing. this year. We are grateful for the support from Kilkenny facing the state and, in responding to that challenge, and it is important that we get more homes underway. County Council, the Department of Housing and the it is encouraging to witness part of the significant We are working in close partnership with a range of local The schemes will provide 30 new homes, investment programme being provided under Housing Finance Agency.” 9 bungalows in Moneenroe and 21 apartments Rebuilding Ireland coming to fruition here in County in Thomastown to be allocated to households Kilkenny. These 30 new homes are an example of the Mary Mulholland, Acting Chief Executive of Kilkenny on the housing list. The successful joint working between Kilkenny County County Council said she wished to ‘thank Oaklee for homes are designed to meet a range of tenancy Council and Oaklee at a local level, with Oaklee their perseverance in delivering these 21 apartments on needs including those of families, older people harnessing the financial supports available to it from a site that was once a derelict unfinished estate in the and individuals with limited mobility. my Department. If we are to realise the full ambition heart of Thomastown and wished the tenants all the of Rebuilding Ireland, we must continue to develop the best in their new homes.’ As an Approved Housing Body (AHB), Oaklee strong pipeline of social housing projects around the has secured funding for the schemes through country, many of which use new and innovative ways a combination of finance from the Department of delivering social housing, and harness the capacity of Housing, Planning and Local Government’s of the approved housing bodies to deliver high quality Capital Advance Leasing Facility (CALF) houses and supported, sustainable homes for tenants.”

Page 8 oaklee.ie Page 9 Oaklee Housing Tenants’ Forum Oaklee Housing Tenants’ Forum held their AGM on 18th October when IF YOU WOULD LIKE the election of both Chair and Vice Chair of The Tenants’ Forum took place. Bill Cusack was duly elected for the position of Chair and Anton Mahon for Vice Chair, both tenants reside at Hawthorn Court in TO GET INVOLVED Celbridge and will serve in these positions for 3 years. WITH OAKLEE The Tenants’ Forum have a number of objectives but their main goal is to encourage more tenants to get involved and have their voice heard. If you would like to talk to someone about getting started please contact Oaklee on 01 400 2650. Or complete the Menu of Involvement in this Bill Cusack accepted his position with enthusiasm and looks forward to developing the Forum; further Bill said “over the past year Oaklee Tenants’ Forum has become a more proactive group, with the help of staff, we newsletter and send to Oaklee at 132 James’s Street, Dublin, D08 Pk25 have been involved in Estate Walkabouts and The Tenant Satisfaction Survey and we want to build on that. We want to visit different localities in 2017 with the staff, promote Tenant Involvement and highlight how by getting involved tenants really do make a difference.” Menu of Tenant Involvement Bill expressed his thanks and appreciation to Anne Jordan the outgoing Acting Chair for her contribution. The group were indeed very grateful for Anne’s work over the past number of years. Bill, by virtue of his Resident Groups – Represent your community Policy Consultation Group – Assist with position as Chair of The Tenants’ Forum, also sits on the Board of Oaklee Housing. The Tenants’ Forum on a wide range of issues by being part of a the development and review of policies meet four times throughout the year at our offices in James’s Street, Dublin. Resident Group in your area. and procedures as and when required. [Meets as and when required – 2.5 hours per meeting] [We anticipate approximately 2 meetings per year – 2 hours per meeting] Tenant Champion – Where no formal Tenant MENU OF TENANT INVOLVEMENT – Association exists become a Tenant Champion to Mystery Shoppers – Test services and provide Together we will achieve more represent your local community, working beside feedback as a mystery shopper by carrying out Oaklee housing staff to address any issues in a series of pre-agreed tasks, such as telephone your area. calls or reception visits, and report on findings. Get involved? [1 hour per week] Training will be provided. Being involved with Oaklee will [Meets quarterly over set days] Tenants’ Forum Group – We currently have one give you the chance to: Forum which meets to discuss housing related Tenant Satisfaction Survey – Assist with the development of a Tenant Satisfaction Survey to Oaklee would be delighted to hear from you issues and sharing best practice ideas. [Meets every 10 weeks – 2.5 hours per meeting] help us identify our strengths and weaknesses. Get involved with Oaklee Housing and help make a difference 1 2 3 4 [Meets with staff and Consultant as required before and after the to your Housing Association. Oaklee actively supports Tenant Inspectors – Carry out an inspection of survey issue.] tenants getting involved and we are keen to hear your views. our services alongside housing staff to identify Make Give Oaklee Be part of Register of Tenants – Respond to surveys or Be active areas for improvement. Training is provided and your area your views a group to in shaping Opposite is the Oaklee Menu of Involvement which provides expenses paid. comment on specific service areas which you are a better on the review and Oaklee’s a wide range of options for you to participate in. You can [Meets quarterly – Additional project work every 6 months] interested in. We can contact you by text, post, place to services improve get involved in a level that suits you. It really depends on email or telephone call. services Editorial Team – Write and review articles for our live in you receive services your interests and how much time you have to spare. The [As and when required – time commitment can be Tenant Newsletter and website and report on the aim of your involvement is to improve the housing and as little as 20 minutes] work of the Tenants’ Forum. maintenance services to you and other Oaklee tenants. [Meets quarterly – 2 hours per meeting] Tenant Translator Team – Offer your services to other tenants in explaining documents We understand you lead busy lives but there are plenty Estate Walkabouts – Walk around your estate or correspondence to help ensure they are of options to choose from. With so many options we’re with your Housing and Property Services Officer to understood. sure there is something of interest for all! identify areas of concern and agree priorities for [As and when required.] 5 6 7 8 the local community. Consider becoming a Tenant Forum member so you can [Meets annually – 2 hours per meeting] vote, attend meetings and have your say. Or why not set Help Oaklee up a residents group in your area or become a Community Your Details better Gain Receive Meet Champion and be the eyes and ears, working together understand useful relevant new with Oaklee. Telephone the needs skills training people Name of tenants You may want to be involved in the comfort of your home Address Please detach this page by cutting down the spine and just twice a year receive a survey by post or email and and then posting it to the following address: you provide comment on the services you receive. It’s up to Oaklee Housing, 132 James’s Street, you but we’d love to have more Oaklee tenants involved. FREEPOST, Dublin, D08 Pk25

Page 10 oaklee.ie Page 11 oaklee.ie If the ceiling has started to bulge pipe internally and allow it to drain property, regardless of the cause, Protecting your home or water is leaking through a into a basin. The basin will need to is not insured by Oaklee. ceiling, you could punch a small be emptied regularly and the pipe hole in the ceiling with a screwdriver. reconnected when the weather Help your neighbour from cold weather Use a bucket or basin to collect improves. During extreme weather conditions dripping water. please check on your neighbours if Protecting your home from extreme • Allow hot air from the main house also be used. Please be careful not Frozen Gas Regulators they are elderly, have a disability cold weather is vital during the into the loft, this may mean opening to warm the pipes too quickly as this To report burst pipes please There may be a small amount of or are housebound as it can be a winter months. This information a trap door during extreme cold may lead to the pipe bursting. It is contact the Oaklee Services Centre water vapour in the gas regulator difficult time for them to get out will help you prepare and assist periods. important that you thaw along the on 01 400 2650. which if it freezes will cause the and about. A friendly visit from a you if you experience any problems pipe starting from the end nearest • Open the cupboard under the sink to gas supply to your boiler to fail. neighbour will be appreciated. the tap. during the cold weather. ensure warm air can circulate round You should cover your meter with Common faults with gas heating Further advice is available from the piping. a towel or old clothing to provide Frozen condensate pipes your gas supplier and water service, It is important to recognise that What to do if a pipe bursts some insulation. Place a hot water when there is extreme weather and • Ensure that all doors throughout the Modern boilers produce significant which may include helpful hints • Turn off the stopcock by turning it bottle on the regulator (grey metal subsequent high call volume we will house are slightly open for warm air volumes of condensate (water) which and video tutorials. clockwise fitting on the top left hand side of to flow around the house. normally discharges into a gulley. In prioritise repairs such as complete the meter) and remove once it has • Try to block the escaping water with very cold weather this condensate How can I find out more? heating failure where there are young thawed any ice. Dry the regulator How to deal with frozen pipes thick cloths such as towels to stop may freeze particularly where it For further information children, elderly or people with immediately. the leak spreading. discharges to an external gulley. To please contact Oaklee at: medical or mobility problems. Due • Turn the water supply off at the to call volume, access difficulties or prevent this you can place a hot Oaklee Housing stopcock. The stopcock is a valve for • Turn off your central heating, Home Contents Insurance water bottle on the pipe close to 132 James’s Street, where other agencies are responsible, turning off and on the cold water immersion heater and any other Please be aware that it is your where it discharges (this advice Dublin, D08 PK25 repairs may not be completed within system in your home. Stopcocks water heating systems. If the responsibility to insure your home also applies to some oil boilers). In the designated time frames. Once you are usually found in your kitchen central heating uses solid fuel, contents. Oaklee insures the Telephone: 01 400 2650 exceptional circumstances we may have reported your repair, try to avoid below the sink unit. However, in let this die out. buildings only. Any damage to your need to disconnect the condensate Email: [email protected] repeat calls to our Services Centre. some houses the stopcock is found • Once you have shutdown your Our contractors will deal with repairs in a front or back hall. Please ensure water heating, turn on all your taps issued in order of priority. that you know where the stopcock to drain the system. Flushing your is located. You can shut off the toilet several times may help. We appreciate that this may be a supply by turning the stopcock in Don’t tip your oil tank! difficult time for tenants and your co- a clockwise direction. To turn the • If water leaks near anything operation is very much appreciated. supply back on, turn the stopcock in electrical switch off the mains an anti-clockwise direction. electricity immediately. If the mains Oaklee are aware of increased incidences of Prevent your pipes switch is wet, don’t touch it as you tenants wedging or tipping oil tanks before from freezing • To thaw frozen pipes put hotwater risk electrocution. arranging a refill. The following tips will help stop the bottles or a thick cloth soaked in • If water has been leaking for Whilst we appreciate that many of our tenants pipes in your home from freezing: hot water over the frozen pipe. A sometime and ceilings are bulging, hairdryer at its lowest setting can suffer from fuel poverty, it is extremely important • Turn your heating on for short the room may not be safe to enter. that you do not tip your tank to increase the oil flow periods throughout the day and as this often results in damaged oil lines, oil leaks, night. environmental contamination, damage to oil burners and makes the tank unstable and dangerous. Oil • Leave the heating on at a low level USEFUL TIPS FOR REFILLING tanks are designed to retain a small amount of oil when you are away from home. This at the bottom of the tank. This is intended to act as can be done by lowering the main YOUR OIL TANK... a reservoir for sediment and moisture, which may heating control thermostat and damage the oil burner if used. Where damage is turning thermostatic radiator valves • Never tip your tank caused by tenant misuse, we will recharge all costs down but not off. Consider leaving a • Always refit and secure the lid and your tenancy is at risk. key with a family member, friend or neighbour who can check your home • Avoid running out of oil and check For further information on oil buying clubs please regularly. oil levels regularly visit our website www.oaklee.ie • Avoid refilling with small drums as • Don’t leave taps dripping or these are expensive and increase running as the water in waste If you require any further information and advice the likelihood of contamination pipes can freeze. on refilling your oil tank please contact Oaklee on • Consider joining an oil buying club 01 400 2650 in your area to help budgeting for oil.

Page 12 oaklee.ie Page 13 oaklee.ie Fire Safety at Home STAY Following the tragic fire at the Grenfell Tower Block in London, we would like to offer both assurance and fire safety advice to all tenants. Your safety and the safety of your home is our main priority. SAFE Whilst Oak is committed to ensuring our homes are managed to the highest standards, fire safety is a shared responsibility. We have set out some useful fire safety advice below:

Fire may cause serious injuries and extensive damage to property and possessions. By following a few simple steps and maintaining a basic level of awareness you can considerably reduce the chances of fire in your home.

Your home is already equipped with smoke alarms which you should test weekly. Never remove your batteries, disconnect or cover your smoke alarm. Where alarms are connected to a communal building fire alarm system they will be tested by Oaklee staff and contractors.

• Use the heating system • Take extra care if cooking with • Regularly clean the filters in • Walls, ceilings and doors will unwanted furniture etc in the flat is not in danger. This is provided. Do not use additional hot oil and never throw water tumble dryers and kitchen hold back flames and smoke, communal areas. If you come particularly important if you heaters that have flames onto or try to move very hot or extractor hoods. so if there’s a fire somewhere across materials that have been have difficulty moving around (gas and paraffin) or electric burning oil. Consider buying else in the building, you’re left, they may present a risk or using the stairs. Tell your • Keep matches and lighters bar heaters. a deep-fat fryer which is usually safest staying in your to you and your family. Please Housing Officer or let the Fire where children can’t see or controlled by a thermostat (if flat unless you’re affected by contact us immediately. Service know that you would • Do not store things in gas or reach them. you don’t already have one). heat or smoke. be unable to evacuate if there electric meter cupboards. • Take special care when you’re • It is important to understand was a fire in your building. • Never leave lit candles in • If you live in a flat you should • Always treat an alarm as a tired or have taken alcohol. the fire safety measures unoccupied rooms or in plan how to escape if there • The consequences of a fire real fire – it might be someone built into the common areas; rooms where children are • Don’t overload electrical is a fire in your home or your can be devastating, even if it burning toast, but it might not. contact Oaklee if you want on their own. sockets. Remember, one plug block. It is likely that a flat doesn’t result in the loss of us to explain the safety plans • Make a fire action plan so that for one socket. will share common areas with life or injury. While Oaklee • Make sure candles are in for the premises and make everyone in your home knows other flats, such as corridors will repair or replace damaged secure holders on a surface • Don’t leave the TV or other sure that you are familiar with how to get out if there and stairways. The owner fixtures and fittings, we will that doesn’t burn and are electrical appliances on what you should do if a fire is a fire. of the building will have the not replace your personal away from any materials standby. Always switch them happens. responsibility of making sure items. • Keep the exits from your that could burn. off and unplug them when that the necessary fire safety • You should not use a lift if a home clear so that you can not in use. • You are therefore strongly • Make sure cigarettes are measures needed in these fire happens escape if there is a fire. advised to take out home stubbed out properly and are • If you or a member of your areas are installed. • If you cannot escape because contents insurance to cover • Make sure that everyone in disposed of carefully, and household has any difficulty of smoke in the corridors, you your personal affects in the your home can easily find the never smoke in bed. seeing, hearing or moving For example, there may be will need to stay in your flat, event of fire. keys for doors and windows. about your home, you will a communal fire alarm, fire • Get into the habit of closing near a window, where you need to take extra care to deal doors and other fire safety • Take extra care in the kitchen doors at night. If you want to can wait for assistance. Call with the risk of a fire. features of the common areas – accidents while cooking keep a child’s bedroom door 999 and tell the fire service which will need to be regularly account for over open, close the doors to the • Flats are built to be fire- operator which flat you are in. maintained. Never interfere with half of fires in homes. Never lounge and kitchen; it might resisting and should contain The operator will tell the fire fire detection equipment or fire leave young children alone help to save their life if fires until the NIFRS arrive fighters to come and assist safety measures such as fire in the kitchen. there is a fire. provided doors are kept shut. you or let you know that your doors and never leave rubbish,

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Community Grants How to apply… • Details of the tenants’ group Scheme An application form should be • Details of the proposed project to be funded A formal residents group does not need to be set up initially to avail of a grant completed and returned to; What is the Community Grant? • Proposed costings for the project but a Residents Group will need to be established for ongoing funding. The Oaklee community grant is Oaklee Housing, • Evidence that all relevant tenants / communities available to fund projects that involve Applications for projects can be made throughout the year. 132 James’s Street, have been consulted and invited to take part people in their developments. The Dublin, DO8 PK25. Association believes that by supporting Residents Group - Start Up Grant Residents Group - Details of how the group intends to monitor and The application should include • communities and residents groups, A start up grant of up to maximum Ongoing Project Funding evaluate the success of the project the following information: they will be capable of delivering of €150.00 per group will be made An annual grant up to a maximum creative solutions to community issues available to help fund the start up of €500.00 per group will be available and will enhance the place where of projects and the formation of a to help fund ongoing projects. they live, particularly when they work Residents Group. together. Examples of projects include; To avail of ongoing project grant environmental projects, social events, A group of tenants with a creative funding, a formal Residents Group kids clubs and community arts projects. idea can apply for funding. The should be in place. The group group will have to demonstrate an should have the following in place; The projects which we will support ability to deliver the proposed project a constitution, group structure and include those projects that demonstrate which they wish to have funded. confirmation that an AGM has been strengthening communities and which held, copies of financial accounts deliver direct benefit to our tenants, and bank statements to show Out & their families and communities, which how the grant has been spent and will help contribute to our overall vision evaluation of the success of projects. of creating places where people are About proud to live.

Hawthorn Court The project has given tenants, Residents Association their friends and family the Hawthorn Court Residents Association opportunity to socialise and have received ongoing grant funding create a community spirit and for gardening projects within their chat about something really development for a number of years. positive. This community spirit The funding has allowed them to has benefited tenants by reducing Sprucing up the planters in the courtyard at James Street purchase a poly tunnel, green house social isolation and has improved Community Day Garden Party in Aras an and equipment which allow the keen the environment greatly for the Uachtarain in July’17 attended by Hawthorn gardeners in the scheme to grow tenants, some of whom are unable Court Representatives. flowers and vegetables from seed. to get out an about.

Rowantree Court Gardening Group Rowantree Court Gardening Group have recently received start up grant funding to purchase paint to refurbish garden furniture and sheds and additional equipment and plants to brighten up the patio area in the scheme. The project has brought tenants from different backgrounds together and has Our resident BBQ specialist Mr Terry Tenants Gabrielle Adams and Noreen Dallas making sure all gardeners were created a great community spirit. Neville enjoying our Garden Day in Tenants planting daffodils and tulips at fed. (Sept ’17) September’17. front of the scheme (Garden Day Sept ’17)

Page 16 oaklee.ie PagePage 1717 oaklee.ieoaklee.ie Problems Paying your Rent

Gardening Competition Winner 2017 Different Ways If you are having difficulties paying your rent, please do not to Pay Your Rent ignore the problem – contact your Thank you to everyone who participated and congratulations to the winner. If you are a keen Housing Officer to discuss the gardener, you too can enter next year’s competition, simply send in your entries to be in with There are a number of issues. We can provide assistance a chance of winning! and advice regarding debt methods which are available management and budgeting. to pay your rent including; Tel: 01 400 2650. Payment Card Standing Order Maureen Lawler Florence Gillespie The payment card can be used at A standing order can be set up Hawthorn Court, Kildare 28 Cuirt Na hAbhann any PostPoint outlet in Ireland to pay rent via your bank or you The winner of this year’s Best Front/Back Garden displaying one of the PostPoint can use your internet online Changes in Gardening Competition signs below or it can be used at banking facility. Further details Circumstances is Maureen Lawlor at 9 any Post Office. are available from Oaklee Housing If your rent is calculated on the Hawthorn Court. There Services Centre - T: 01 400 2650. basis of your income. You must were many beautiful Household Budget advise the Association of any entries but Maureen’s Rent can be deducted from mybills.ie changes in your circumstances as garden really stood out Welfare Benefits via the Household mybills.ie is a free service from An soon as they occur, including; with her creative use Budget Scheme, administered by Post providing a ‘one-stop-shop’ for changes to household income of props and colour. An Post. A deduction form can be paying bills online including your • ( including additional income Congratulations Maureen downloaded from www.anpost.ie weekly rental payment. Tenants from training schemes or and thanks to everyone or call 1800 707172 or contact our can also set up payments to pay a increases in welfare benefits) that entered! Services Centre on 01 400 2650. regular amount automatically. Maureen Lawler • if anyone moves in or out of Hawthorn Court, Kildare Coming Soon! your property Best Window Sill Display • if additional children join We are currently setting up a Direct Debit the household. payment facility for tenants to pay rent. Further details will be made available at a later date. Homes Available immediately! Credit Union Loans Abbey Village in Donegal A new loan scheme is being rolled out in Credit Unions nationally specifically aimed at those on social welfare. This initiative is about combating the grip of moneylenders on low income individuals and households in receipt of social welfare. Flat 18 is a 1 bed first floor flat. Abbey Court consists of 18 apartments which are a mix of The scheme was developed in conjunction with the Citizens Information Board, MABS, An Post, the League of Credit Unions and the Social Finance Foundation and is supported by the Government and Department of Social Protection. sheltered and HSE units which are used for housing people with intellectual disabilities. The “It Makes Sense Loan” is available in over 100 credit unions across the country. The loan is available at a rate of There’s a scheme coordinator on site 3 days 12.68% APR in contrast to excessive rates of circa 200% charged by some moneylenders. When the unexpected bill a week as well as a cleaner to clean the arrives for home repairs, a family occasion or to purchase a new fridge rather than turn to moneylenders, the credit communal areas. To apply call 01 400 2650. unions are offering micro credit loans to social welfare recipients. Applicants for the ‘It Makes Sense’ loan do not already have to be members of the credit union. Once the person lives or works in a credit union’s common bond area and over 18 years of age, the credit union can process a membership application and then accept their loan request. There is no automatic entitlement to a loan under this scheme. Potential borrowers must be able to show a capacity to repay the loan. For applicants who receive their social welfare payments in cash (via a post office), the repayment for this loan must be made via the Household Budget Scheme, operated by An Post. Borrowers must be willing to sign up to and use the Household Budget Scheme to enable loan repayments. For those who receive social welfare electronically (into a bank or credit union account), repayments for must be made by standing order or direct debit, directly from the account which receives the social welfare payment.

Additional information on the scheme is available at www.itmakessenseloan.ie

Page 18 oaklee.ie Page 19 oaklee.ie It’s really easy to enter, just pull out this page and colour it in anyway you like! Then pop it in the post along with you Colouring name, age, address and telephone number in the reply slip below to The Editor, Oaklee Housing (News), 132 James’s Street, Competition Dublin, DO8 PK25. One lucky winner will receive this great prize! Entries must be received by 15/01/17. (Please note that the parent must be a tenant of Oaklee Housing).

Hey kids this is your chance to show-off your colouring skills Win a family Cinema Pass!

Name Age

Address

Daytime Telephone Evening Telephone

POST TO: The Editor Oaklee Housing (News) 132 James’s Street Dublin, DO8 PK25