Page 1 UNEARTHEDWE’VEAGEM! Vision ArdenglenSUMMER 2022 TENANT EVENTS ARE BACK! P27 GARDEN WINNERSCOMPETITION P4 WE HAVE A ARDENGLENNEWFACEBOOK P3 ENERGY ADVICE SPECIAL P22-26 Ardenglen Housing Association, 355 Tormusk Road, Castlemilk, Glasgow G45 0HF • TEL: 0141 634 8016 • FAX: 0141 634 9016 E-mail: info@ardenglen.org.uk • A recognised charity no. SC032542 • Property Factor Registration No. PF000168 OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF ARDENGLEN HOUSING ASSOCIATION
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W elcome to another fantastic edition of Ardenglen Vision. It’s a real privilege to have been recently appointed as Ardenglen’s new Chief Executive. I am looking forward to continuing the fantastic progress the Association has made in providing quality homes and services as well as working with a dedicated board and a passionate team of colleagues.
FAO David Byfield.
MessageExecutive’sChief
Finally, we continue to be very aware of the wider impact of the cost of living on many of our customers. As such I would remind you that we are here to help you as much as possible and you can contact us with any concerns regarding your home or financial position. I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know our tenants and customers over the coming months but please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like to propose any ways in which we can do better or if you have a particular issue that you would like us to address. You can contact me by emailing info@ardenglen.org.uk using the subject line
David Byfield Chief Executive Officer
I’m delighted to announce details of Ardenglen’s next Annual General Meeting (AGM) which will take place, in person, in the Maureen Cope Hall on 20 September at 6:45pm. Further meeting arrangements are included within the newsletter and invitations will be issued to all shareholders inviting you to come along, enjoy a light refreshment and listen to all the news. To vote at the AGM, you must be a shareholding member. If you’re interested in becoming a member, or would like to find out more about membership, please call Jacqui Mills on 0141 631 5043 or email jacqui.mills@ardenglen.org.uk With the rising cost of energy bills you will find a range of practical information in the newsletter including our top ten energy saving tips that could help to reduce energy bills as well as helpful information about obtaining access to our Energy Advisor for impartial energy advice and support.
AGM AssociationArdenglen2022HousingFacebook
W e have a new Ardenglen Facebook account! You might have noticed that we haven’t been as active on Facebook over the last year or so. This is due to some changes made by Facebook to their Business accounts. We are sorry if you have been trying to engage with us or contact us using Facebook and we haven’t responded. We simply couldn’t access our old Facebook account to talk to you but we are delighted to announce that we have set up a brand new Facebook account for Ardenglen so that you can keep in contact with us and keep up to date with what is happening. Some of you have already found our new Facebook page but for those of you who have still to find us. Look no further, simply click on this link and you’ll be taken straight to our new Facebook profile Ardenglen Facebook Association-102918612196567/)facebook.com/Ardenglen-Housing-(https://m.
. Hit like on our page and you will be entered into a free prize draw where you can win a £20 for B&M stores. Winner will be announced in August.
Shareholders are welcome to join us from 6pm as we announce the winners of this year’s garden competition.
O ur AGM is being held in the Maureen Cope Hall on 20 September at 6.45pm.
All members of Ardenglen are welcome at the AGM where a buffet and refreshments will be served.
If you are a member, we’ll be in touch over the next few weeks with AGM papers.
hank
1st
James McMillian
T you to everyone who entered our 2022 Garden Competition. Well done! we have some fabulous gardens and balconies in our neighbourhood. Our judges Suzanne Casey, Senior Housing Officer and Robert McGuire, Senior Maintenance Officer were very impressed with the gardens this year and after some careful consideration agreed that the winners are: 15 Ballantay Terrace (Backcourt)Maja Wojtowicz - £75 2nd 22 Ardencraig Quadrant (back Christinegarden)Maitland - £50 3rd 9 Scarrel Road (Backcourt)Joint winners - Renata Redziniak and Marlena Pawlak - £15 each W e’d like to say a big thank you to our Gardener James McMillian and the Happy Gardeners for the wonderful job they have done in bringing our planters and hanging baskets back to life. Next time you are visiting the office, take a look for yourself and see the beautiful flowers we now have gracing the entrance to our office. What a difference some bright colours can make. James has also been taking good care of the plants by watering them every day. Thank you James and all the Happy Gardeners for all your efforts. You’re Blooming Marvellous!! ming Marvellous!!
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The Board have also been continuing their personal development and progressing with the Board Training Plan. The Board will receive GDPR training in August. Board Vacancies
• CEO presented update report
• Approved revisions to Charitable and Community Donations policy
Spotlight Governanceon
I t’s been a quick first half of the year and our Board continue to meet every 6 to 8 weeks to progress with business for Ardenglen. The latest business being the recruitment of a new Chief Executive Officer. You may all be aware that Ardenglen now has a new Chief Executive at the helm with David Byfield taking over from Audrey Simpson. It’s exciting times for the Association and the Board have played a huge role so far in appointing our new CEO and also in the recruitment of our new Director of Asset Management, Peter Kelly.
• Approved the external audit plan from RSM Audit which will result in audited financial accounts
We have some vacancies on the board at the moment and are looking for members who are from the area and have good local knowledge and a real interest in Ardenglen. The Association has an induction programme and buddy system for new members to help you settle in. We also provide training opportunities and support our Board Members in their development. If you are interested in filling one of the vacancies on the Board, call 0141 634 8016 and have an informal chat with David Byfield, CEO or Jacqui Mils, Corporate & Compliance Officer for more information. If this hasn’t given you the encouragement to join, then maybe our latest feature article, getting to know our Board will give you more insight into who the Board are and why they joined. Our second Board Member in the spotlight is our Vice-Chair, Mark Ingram. Read more about his life as a member of Ardenglen’s Board of Management on page 6.
• Approved the Secretaries Report resulting in approval for the AGM to be held Tuesday 20th Sept at 6:45pm. This will be an in person meeting.
Appraisal time July and August is a particularly busy time for our Chair, Liz McKenzie who is conducting Board Appraisals. Once all complete, these will determine the training needs for the Board for the next year.
• Approved the Board Succession Plan
• Approved the Health and Safety report
• Approved eviction report and Board acknowledged colleagues efforts in exhausting all possible avenues to maintain the tenancy
The Board last met on 28 June to discuss and approve the following
• Approved revisions to the Void Management Policy (full review to follow early 2023).
6. If you could live anywhere, where would it be and why? It would need to be Spain or Portugal. As a keen golfer, I would relish living in the Spanish or Portuguese climate and taking to the golf courses over there every day.
Getting to know our Vice
4. What would you say to someone thinking about joining the Ardenglen Board? It’s a great way to make a difference in your local area and have a say in things that matter to you and your family’s life. It also provides great training opportunities that may enhance a CV.
2. Who or what made you join the Board?
I was involved in preparing a presentation on a participatory budget for Miller Primary School a few years ago. I was approached at the meeting in the community hall by then Chair Maureen Cope, MBE and our Community Investment Manager Fiona McGovern at the event. I hadn’t thought about joining the Board until that point but I was flattered that they saw something in me and I didn’t hesitate to join Ardenglen Board. I’ve had a great experience so far.
T his edition, we took 30 minutes out to have a chat with our Vice Chair, Mark Ingram. Originally from Drumchapel, Mark tells us how settled and at home he is with his family in Castlemilk. He has no plans to move from the area, unless Spain or Portugal come calling for him.1.How long have you been on the Board of Ardenglen? I joined the Board in 2017. I’ve lived in Castlemilk for years but originally came from Drumchapel. I love it here and like to be part of the local community. I serve on a number of Community groups.
5. What difference has Ardenglen made to the area in your time here?
3. What are your proudest achievements from being on the Board?
Don’t join thinking that you get preferential treatment by being on the Board as that is just not true. Members are held to account, scrutinised in their role and do not benefit from their involvement on the Board. What they do get,is training and the opportunity to attend conferences across the country and meet people from other organisations and share housing knowledge.
The new differenceinstallationsbathroommadeaanditisgreat to see tenants getting their kitchens and bathrooms replaced. This is all important for maintaining the Association’s stock too.
I’d like to see the Association improve or work in partnership with others in future to develop the grass area at Ballantay and also do something to develop the vacant space behind the Jennyburn Centre.
Mark feels that becoming Vice Chair of the Board and the Audit, Performance and Risk Assurance subcommittee is one of his proudest achievements. He has learned a lot in the five years that he has served on the Board but also admitted that it is a huge commitment ensuring that he is well read up on Board papers.
7. Who is your hero? I don’t have any heroes, I don’t believe in that. I look to myself to change things and make a difference. If there are any problems, I believe there are also solutions and I’ll work hard to find them and make things better. If I can help someone out I will. With a positive mind set like Mark has, it’s clear what he brings to the Board. He has ideas and enthusiasm to impact and make changes in his local area. He’s a Community Councillor and also Chair of Castlemilk Together and serves on Miller Primary School Council. Despite all this, he also finds the time to serve as Vice Chair of Ardenglen’s Board and Audit Sub Committee and has ambitions to be Chair at some point in the future.
Vice Chair, Mark Ingram
If you are interested in joining Ardenglen’s Board, get in touch with Jacqui Mills, Corporate & Compliance Officer on 0141 631 5043 or email Jacqui.mills@ardenglen.org.uk and she will have a chat with you about what is involved, as we have some vacancies.
Page 8 Our contractor, MP Group UK have exciting apprenticeship opportunities for Castlemilk residents. See below for more details. We are actively looking for local people with an interest in a career in construction. If you or anyone you know is looking to start an apprenticeship, please get in touch. 3 4 APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES Joiners Plumbers Electricians We have local vacancies forSend C.V to recruitment@mpgroupuk.com CastlemilkopportunityApprenticeshipforresidents!
GAS SAFETY our lawful
It is the responsibility of tenants to ensure that gas cookers are installed by a qualified Gas Safe engineer and that they are kept in a safe working condition.The Association offers tenants a free service for installing new gas cookers. duty you
• Open doors and windows for ventilation Gas Cookers
•followingTurnoff the gas supply at the meter
• Do not operate electrical switches.
• Put out all sources of ignition
T he Association as your landlord is required by law to service the gas boilers and pipework within your home every 12 months to ensure that they are safe for you to use and that they are maintained in a good condition.
We have instructed City Technical Services Ltd to carry out these checks and they will leave a copy of the safety certificate in your home after they have carried out the service. They will also issue a copy to the Association for our Itrecords.isobviously in your best interest to give City Technical access to your home to carry out this work. They will contact you direct by letter to advise you when they intend visiting your home and give you the option of changing it to another date that may be more suitable to you. If an arrangement has been made and the engineer does not attend, please contact the Association immediately to allow us to investigate the Itmatter.isvery important that the Association complies with its legal duty and gets access to carry out the gas service. Should you not give access to your home, you will be in breach of your tenancy agreement, and we may be left with no alternative but to use the Landlords Right of Access and force entry to your home. The costs will also be recharged to you. Gas Leaks Should you suspect a gas escape please contact Scottish Gas Networks, National Gas Emergency free phone number anytime on 0800 111 999 Please also carry out the
to
• Do not smoke
Bulk collection – Weekly collection on a Monday/ Tuesday from back courts of common blocks and open spaces Bin store cleans – Every 8 days after council collection, unless collection is on Friday or Saturday then bin store clean will be on Monday Thoroughly brush out all bin store (removing bins and any fallen litter, burst bags etc. prior to sweeping) to remove all dirt and debris from all areas and clear any gully gratings, etc. from all obstructions prior to leaving the site and dispose offsite to a registered waste disposal facility in accordance with current legislation.
Litter picking – 2-week cycle in line with grass cutting in gardens Play area litter pick –Weekly in line with play area inspection
Weed/Moss/Slime control –Entire area to be free of weeds/ moss/slime at all times
Conifers – Pruned once per year in April/May
The contractor will be required to remove all weed growth from the entire maintained area of the site as necessary throughout the year. This shall include removal of any weed growth/ moss and slime, etc. from all hard and paved areas using mechanical means or an approved weed killer. This includes raking out moss from joints in block paving.
Rough grass / Open areas – 8 cuts between April to October
If chemical treatment is used allow for interim visits 10 after treatment to remove dead material which is to be treated as arisings. All arisings shall be swept and gathered and disposed off site at the end of each visit and hard/ paved areas swept to ensure that they are free from debris prior to the contractor leaving the site and disposed off site to a registered waste disposal facility in accordance with current legislation.
A rdenglen maintainingcommittedaretothe estate that we serve and there are a number of things we do to ensure that the area is presentable for our residents. Here is timetable of what we do throughout the year and when:
The contractor shall provide all necessary protective clothing and equipment to operatives necessary to carry out the works to all areas in accordance with current Health & Safety legislation.
Keep up to date with Estate Maintenance
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Grass cutting Gardens – 2-week cycle
Shrubs – 1 cut in December-Februarywinterand 1 cut in summer July/August Trees – 3m Canopy to be maintained once per year, report carried out monthly on condition of all trees Hedges – 3 cuts per year, April/May, August December-Februaryand
Page 11 W e have aTenementappointedStepsasnewcontractor to carry out the cleaning of our closes. They will work to the same specification as the previous contractor and carry out the weekly works over 4 days which will be Mon-Wed and Fridays. Weekly tasks –• Brush all common floors, landings & stairs (inc. external entrance) • Mop all common floors, landings & stairs (inc. external entrance) • Clean balustradeshandrails,&banisters • Polish front and rear entrance door glass, control panels, hand plates and handles internally • Wipe window ledges, sills, deadlight sills and frame head of doors • Shake dirt loose from matting and return mats to position • Dust light fittings • Remove cobwebs from ceilings and light fittings • Remove junk mail from close • Dust small items of furniture and return to position 4-weekly tasks –• Clean front and rear close landing windows internally & externally • Clean front and externallyplatespanels,controlglass,doorentrancerearhandandhandles • Clean close lighting at front and rear entrances externally 3-monthly tasks –• Clean down lower close walls, wall tiles and dados Annual tasks –• Deep clean to hard floors Tenement Steps clean up as our new Close Cleaning Contractor P lease remember that Glasgow City Council no longer collect bulk waste from former designated pick-up points. This means that any bulk left in your backcourt will not be collected unless you request a bulk uplift directly with Glasgow City Councils cleansing department. Once reported you will be given a date for collection. Please only put your items into the backcourt or garden space the day before your collection date, ensuring items are not obstructing bins or common Youpathways.canmake a report in the following ways; • The MyGlasgow app which is available on android and iOS • Glasgow City Councils website https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/bulkywaste • Residents who cannot access the internet can phone 0141 287 9700 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9am – 3pm. If you see flytipping in your area please report this directly to Glasgow City Council who will investigate and take enforcement action where the culprit can be identified. BULK UPLIFTS
F ollowing on from the 40% of independent stock condition surveys that were carried out by our consulting surveyors JMP last year, we are now arranging a further 20% to help give us a more accurate picture of the condition of our stock and target our investment in those areas of greatest need. It is anticipated that the surveys will begin in mid to late September 2022.
The stock condition surveys are an ongoing process and will need to be repeated every 3-5 years to ensure that we comply with current day standards such as Scottish Housing Quality Standards (SHQS) and the current Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing.
The survey information will help us update our current 30 year planned and cyclical maintenance programme which is part of our overall long-term financial forecasts on which tenants rent levels are based on. They will also help to make sure that the existing 5-year investment plan for the replacement of major components such as kitchens, bathrooms and heating systems is continuing to target those areas in most need.
Communication to tenants
We are currently finalising the details of Year 1 (2022/23) of the existing 5-year plan, and it is hoped that we will be in a position to advise tenants very shortly of the proposed programme of replacement works for this financial year.
The surveys are necessary to ensure the safety and welfare of our tenants and to help us maintain and improve your homes. We would like to thank you in advance for your support and assistance to help us complete these important surveys.
Tenants within homes that have been selected to be surveyed will receive a letter from Ardenglen HA explaining the purpose of the survey. They will then be contacted by our appointed surveyors JMP to arrange a suitable time for them to undertake the survey which will require access to tenant’s homes but will not involve any disruptive work and should take no longer than 30 minutes.
More Stock Condition Surveys this September
If you are unsure whether or not you have informed us of any change please get in touch ASAP. Please provide the name, date of birth, relation to you and the date the person moved in or out. Failure to keep this information updated will impact any applications for succession to tenancy and assignation of tenancy. It is also important to let us know of changes to your contact information – please ensure we have an updated email address and mobile phone number and where possible an alternative contact. You can inform us by: Writing to us at: Ardenglen Housing Association, 355 Tormusk Road Glasgow G45 0HF or Emailing us at: Info@ardenglen.org.uk.
Can’t make it? Just give us a call SurveySatisfactionTenant Remember to tell
Ardenglen still work in partnership with Money Matter’s and we continue to offer a Welfare Rights Service by appointment two days per week every Wednesday and Thursday. This service is back to being face to face at our office and our advisor is Luke who I am sure many of you have met already. The service is extremely popular and it can be around 2-3 weeks for an appointment. Unfortunately not all appointments have been kept and since April and 13 people have failed to attend. If you can no longer make it please let us know at the earliest opportunity to ensure we can offer this to someone else who is waiting.
A rdenglen are preparing for our 3 yearly tenant satisfaction survey and we are looking for volunteers who would be interested in helping us with the design including the brief, questions and how we collate responses. We would love to have tenants input in this, If this is something you would be interested in please contact Lindsay Gemmill (interim director of customer services) for more information on 634 8016 or email info@ardenglen.org.uk & include the subject Tenant Satisfaction Survey Group T o ensure that your tenancy rights are protected it is very important to ensure that you advise us of any changes to your household. This includes telling us about anyone who has previously moved in with you who you haven’t already told us about, and when anyone moves into or out of your home in the future at the time they do so.
Changes to contact information can also be given by calling us on 0141 634 8016. us about changes to your household
Page 13 P lease let us know when you can’t make a Welfare Rights appointment
O n Thursday 23 June a small group of tenants met with Jacqui Mills, our Corporate & Compliance Officer to give their opinions on the Annual Performance Report to Tenants. We had a chat about the information that is important to our tenants to know about and also looked at ways we could improve our report this year. They told us what tenants want to read about such as our energy efficiency status in our properties, tenant satisfaction with services, anti social behaviour and court actions and much more.
We will also help to refer to external agencies where required to link in with specific advice relating to debt. Our staff are empathetic to individual circumstances and will do what we can to ensure you remain in your home. We will always take into account affordability when it comes to agreeing a repayment plan with you so we cannot stress enough the importance of speaking with us at the earliest opportunity as we are here to help.
•
Rights Service (2 days per week provided by Money Matters) Fuel Advice Pantry Referral
Importance of rent AnnualpaymentsReportConsultation
from left to right, Jeanette Adair, Leighann Ingram and Daniel McGivern
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Ardenglen offer a variety of services in house to help those who are in financial hardship
•
Thanks to Leighann, Jeanette and Daniel for giving up their time and helping Ardenglen with this important piece of work. We hope that you will all enjoy reading the Annual Performance Report to Tenants later on this year. Look out for it coming through your letterbox in the Autumn time.
A rdenglen regretfully have to inform that Glasgow Sheriff Court granted an eviction at due to non-payment of rent. This is NOT a successful outcome for Ardenglen or indeed the household involved and thankfully, it is extremely rare and is a complete last resort when all our efforts to assist.
•including:Welfare
• What happens next?
D
All children under the age of five, who live in an Ardenglen HA home.
• You need to complete and submit a registration form (must be the parent or guardian) of the child.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a 60-volume set of books that begin with the children’s classic The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Every month a new, carefully selected book will arrive in the post
addressed in your child’s name.
Best of all it is a FREE GIFT and there is no cost or obligation to continue.
Who is Eligible?
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•
What Are Responsibilities?My You must be a tenant with Ardenglen HA and have your children registered as part of your household.
Interested? Contact Nicole on 0141 634 8016 or e-mail her on nicole.babes@ardenglen.org.uk to request an application form today!
• In around eight to ten weeks your little one will receive books that are addressed to them and delivered by the postman.
olly Parton’s Imagination Library is the flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation. It reaches more children than any other early childhood book gifting program, and mails free, high-quality, age-appropriate books to children from birth until age five, no matter their family’s income. What is it?
• This will continue until they are about to turn the age of Five or you end your tenancy with Ardenglen HA.
Back by popular demand….our Community Committee have agreed to facilitate another 6 week session of “Lucky Lock Down Bingo”, beginning Monday 22nd August with eyes down at Delivery6.30pm.will take place over Zoom. Please don’t worry if you do not have a device, we can assist with the loan of a tablet and data (if required) and can even provide some training to build your confidence! first two games, with the last game being funded by Ardenglen Community Interested:Committee.e-mail community@ardenglen.org.uk or call Fiona on 07969182330 for more information.
paidcollectedmoneywithcostBooks£5alloutfor
The return of Number TEN at ARDENGLEN!
Payments will be made over a six-month period so you won’t get all £400 at once. This money will not need to be paid back. As well as the help with energy costs which is available to all households, you could also get up to 3 different payments depending on your circumstances. A £650 cost of living payment will be made in 2 lump sums of £326 and £324 for people who get certain low-income benefits. This will be available to people who are claiming Universal Credit; Income based Jobseekers allowance or ESA; tax credits; income support; or pension credit. To qualify you will need to have been claiming from 25 May People2022.who are receiving PIP, DLA, Attendance allowance or a Scottish disability benefit will receive a one off £150 payment in September. This will be paid into your account thatdisabilityyourbenefitisusuallypaidinto.
The details of the Warm home discount for this year have not yet been announced and we should have more information on this in August. All of these will be paid automatically to those who are eligible and don’t need to be applied for. If you are struggling with the cost-ofliving crisis which is affecting everyone, you should contact the housing association to arrange an appointment with our welfare rights adviser who will be able to check that your are claiming all the benefits you are entitled to.
T he government has announced a new support package in June to help people who are struggling with the rising cost of living. A £400 grant will be available from October for all households to help with rising energy bills. Direct debit and credit customers will have the money credited to their account, and households with pre-payment meters will either have the money added to their meter by their supplier or will be paid via vouchers.
If you’re entitled to a winter fuel payment you will get an extra £300 this year paid along with your normal payment from November 2022. The winter fuel payment is available for people over state pension age and the total amount you will get will depend on your circumstances. It should not be confused with the Warm home discount which working age people who are on low incomes can also apply for.
Cost of living Support
The next phase of this will start in Glasgow on 29th August when Social Security Scotland’s Adult Disability Payment (ADP) will start to replace PIP to give extra help to working aged people who have long term health conditions or disabilities. Many people who live with health conditions which affect their mobility or mean they need extra help to complete day-to-day tasks do not know that they could be entitled to extra help. The new benefit won’t just be for people who are physically disabled, it can cover a wide range of medical conditions even if you wouldn’t usually think of yourself as being “disabled”.
Adult Disability payment being introduced in Glasgow 29 August
*£650 cost of living payment
The Scottish Government will be taking over delivery of certain disability benefits over the next few years and the first of these has already been introduced with the roll out of Scottish Child Disability Payment last year.
Exact date you will get the
• Universal Credit • income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
You may get a payment of £650 paid in 2 lump sums of £326 and £324 in the autumn if you’re getting any of the following:
*If you have a joint claim with a partner, you will get one payment of £326 and one payment of £324 for your joint claim, if you’re entitled.
• Employmentincome-relatedand Support Allowance (ESA)
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• Income Support • Pension Credit
Most of the first payments of £326 will be made between 14 July 2022 and the end of July 2022 Low income benefits
The amount of help you will get will depend on the level of help you need but the lowest rate is £24.45 per week and can go up to £156.90 for people who need the most help. This is not means tested which means it will not affect any of your other benefits, and you can still apply even if you are Peopleworking.who are currently receiving PIP do not need to do anything, your PIP will continue as normal and you will not need to apply for ADP. The payment rates for both benefits are the same so you will not be missing out. Social Security Scotland will begin transferring people claiming PIP over to the new benefit and this will be done automatically and will not affect your payments.
Anyone who would like information about their entitlement to disability benefits can contact their Housing Officer for an appointment with our welfare rights adviser who will be able to discuss the eligibility requirements for ADP, check your entitlement, and assist throughout the application process.
Support payments
Development of the project began back in 2019, when we agreed to take on the responsibility for delivering and sourcing relevant funding to make the project a Thenreality.in March 2020, the world stopped! The arrival of Covid-19 saw us entering into a “Lockdown”, and having to work our way through tough restrictions put in place by the Scottish Government, whilst they worked through strategies to keep everyone safe. Move forward to January 2021, when we felt more hopeful, and when we commenced with our planned refurbishment works, to turn a former meeting space within the Castlemilk Community Centre into the Castlemilk Pantry store.
A rdenglen Housing Association, are honoured to be the lead organisation, delivering this new exciting project on behalf of local partners. Castlemilk Pantry, aims to help local residents’ access healthy and affordable food, whilst at the same time look after the environment by diverting food away from landfill.
Karen McDonagh, Chair of Ardenglen’s Community Committee, Ardenglen Chairperson, Liz McKenzie and Audrey Simpson, our former Chief Executive.
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On 3rd June 2021, we were beyond excited to finally be able to open the doors.
ONE YEAR ON...
We have changed our operating days to Tuesday and Wednesday from 10am to 3pm and you will find us at the Castlemilk Community Centre, 121 Castlemilk Drive, Glasgow, G45 9UG. If you would like to become a member, please e-mail community@ardenglen. org.uk for an application and our terms of membership. Alternatively you can join on a day we are open, just ask one of our friendly volunteers and they will be happy to assist. and what a year it has been!
The delivery of our project was not the only thing impacted during this time. The urgency to provide a robust support for the local community had never been greater. Higher numbers of local residents were now finding themselves in financial and food insecurity. Pre Covid-19, our membership target for our first year of operation was set at 200, however post Covid-19 we recorded a total of 805 members, which evidences the impact that Covid-19 has had on the local Finally,community.weremain grateful to the commitment of our partners and funders for their kindness and understanding and send a big THANK YOU to everyone who has supported us throughout this period of uncertainty and in making our project the success that it is today. We look forward to building on our success of the first year!
Dry days. Hang washing outside. A good tip for anyone with outdoor space, whether it’s a veranda, back court or garden, is drying your laundry outside. Tumble dryers are very energy hungry, adding up to £60 a year to your bills. Give yours a break and you won’t just save energy, but all your clothes will smell lovely and fresh, and you’ll be helping the environment too.
Switch the lights off in bulbsandyou’reroomsnotusingswaptoLED When you do need to switch on the lights, get into the habit of only lighting rooms that are being used and you could save up to £20 a year on your energy bills. Be onwaterwithsmartyourtosavebills
standby.toRememberswitchoff
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In the meantime, here are some handy tips to help you save £205
uring this first year we were delighted to be awarded funding from the Energy Re-dress fund, which has enabled us to employ or very own Energy Advisor, Lynne Mastrangioli, so if you are finding the rising cost of paying for gas and electricity difficult there are ways, we may be able to help with advice and support. Access to this is completely confidential but is restricted to members of the Pantry so it could be even more beneficial to join. For further information contact Fiona McGovern on 0141 631 5041 or 07969182330 or by e-mailing community@ardenglen.org.uk
Heating up large quantities of water can have a big impact on your bills. Taking a four-minute shower instead of a bath saves a typical household up to £70 a year.
New Energy Advisor D
We are aware times are difficult. However making small behavioural changes in how we use gas/electric WILL benefit your pocket in the long run.
mayonappliancesLeavingstandbyseemharmless – but it’s surprising how much energy they guzzle up. You could save around £55 a year just by turning appliances off at the plug when you aren’t using them.
Here is a flavour of some of the handy tips and advice to help you save money…
07498
Develop & cultivate our community gardens at the Maureen Cope Community Hall & improve your overall health & wellbeing Friday Grub’s Up
to 2.30pm Creative Writing/Song Writing & Music Workshop *not the last Thursday of the month Friday Connected Castlemilk
DO
Loves Local campaign looks to encourage people in Scotland to think local first and support businesses on their local high streets. The Scotland Loves Local Glasgow Gift Card can be seen as a local currency - allowing people to spend their Gift Cards in their favourite local businesses, or on household essentials, in a way that keeps spending local for longer, benefitting the local economy in the process. Glasgow City Council will begin issuing the gift cards to households in receipt of a council tax reduction in midAugust. have been busy developing our PANTRY PLUS initiative……if you have not heard about it, please read on and you will find out more about what it offers.
07498
Our Pantry
to 2.30pm (6 week cookery class with certification) *BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Wednesday 10am 12noon 12.30pm to 12.30pm 10.30am 12.30pm 12noon 12.30pm
2.30pm Wellness & Life-long learning Thursday Unified by Music
(sit down) Free Community Lunch, end the week together & share to 2.30pm ideas & aspirations for the Castlemilk Food Pantry Personal Development; Health & Safety; First Aid & Cookery/ Food Hygiene training also available throughout the year
GETTNG ON LINE? DO YOU
LINE? DO YOU
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• DO YOU NEED HELP GETTNG ONLINE? • DO YOU NEED HELP WITH YOUR JOBSEARCH? • DO YOU NEED TO LEARN THE BASICS OF HOW TO USE A COMPUTER? DAY PROGRAMME & CONTENT TIME Mon, Tues, Connected Castlemilk 12.30pm to 2.30pm Wed Develop your Digital skills inc. Job Search Monday Mending Castlemilk 10am to 12noon Learn how to transform old wood into something brand new Monday Men’s Group 1pm to 3pm Wellness & Life-long learning Tuesday Sew Fabulous
LocalScotlanddistributionapprovedhasCouncilnowtheofLovesGiftCards worth £105 to around 85,000 households in the city. These cards can be used in registered businesses in Glasgow, with more than 650 businesses of all sizes registered across the city Thealready.Scotland
G lasgow City
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07498 843556 or
Learn how to transform old rags into something brand new Tuesday Grub’s Up
We
DO YOU NEED
Our Pantry Plus programme offers free IT/Computer Support Classes every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 12.30pm 2.30pm then on a Friday from 10am 12noon in the Maureen Cope Community Hall, 201 Ardencraig Road, G45 0JJ Why not contact Sally Pritchard today to register and learn a new skill? 843556 or sally.pritchard@ardenglen.org.uk YOU NEED HELP GETTNG ON NEED HELP WITH NEED TO LEARN THE BASICS OF HOW USE COMPUTER? Plus programme offers free IT/Computer Tuesday, Wednesday from 12.30pm 2.30pm then on a Friday from 10am 12noon in the Maureen Cope Community Hall, 201 Ardencraig Road, G45 0JJ not contact Sally Pritchard today to register and learn a new skill? 843556 or sally.pritchard@ardenglen.org.uk 10am to 12noon 12.30pm
to
Support Classes every Monday,
Bright Sparks over 40s women’s group
Why
Why
to
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YOUR JOBSEARCH? DO YOU
Wellness & Life-long learning Wednesday Tea Pot under 40s women’s group
Our Pantry Plus programme offers free IT/Computer Support Classes every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 12.30pm—2.30pm then on a Friday from 10am-12noon in the Maureen Cope Community Hall, 201 Ardencraig Road, G45 0JJ not contact Sally Pritchard today to register and learn a new skill? sally.pritchard@ardenglen.org.uk HELP NEED HELP JOBSEARCH? YOU NEED TO LEARN THE BASICS OF HOW TO USE A COMPUTER?
Develop your Digital skills inc. Job Search Friday Happy Gardeners 10am to
CardsLocalLovesScotlandGift
· 3rd place – Twilight Classes (evening classes)
· 4th place – Castlemilk Strollers (walking group)
Cash for Castlemilk
· Breakfast Buddies –provision of cereal and milk for families via the Castlemilk Pantry and other local community facilities.
The final and exiting stage is to bring all these ideas to life, so watch up this space and our social media platforms for information on how to Aparticipate!massiveTHANK YOU is given to everyone who took part in our first Cash for Castlemilk exercise, both in the focus groups and community members who Wevoted.will be running another round of Cash for Castlemilk in the Autumn. If you are interested in finding out more or wish to be involved, contact Sally on 07498 843556 or e-mail ardenglen.org.uksally.pritchard@
· 2nd place – Breakfast Buddies (cereal and milk for families)
It was agreed that funding should be allocated across all ideas, in order for them all to happen, with the winning ideas being given more money based on the percentage of the votes
· 1st place – Holiday Vibes (play scheme)
.
Stage 3 – count of votes (headed up by one of our dedicated members of the group who has extensive knowledge of how to tally votes correctly and fairly), necessary for us to have a clear outcome of what ideas were to be supported and how much funding was to be allocated.
It was at our Grub’s Up meal that we launched Cash for Castlemilk a participatory budgeting exercise, which sees local people access a process on having a say on how to spend money in their own community.
Holiday Vibes – a play scheme for young people to access across the school holidays.
Stage 1 – saw us set up a Focus Group (made up from participants and members of the Castlemilk Pantry), who were keen to get together and discuss on issues that are important to local people. Great ideas such as selfdefence; cookery and the development of a play scheme were generated, however the group did need to be realistic and had to narrow their list to a final 4 as follows:-
Stage 2 – set up of voting station at the Castlemilk Pantry and other local facilities.
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· Castlemilk Strollers – a walking group, which will visit various community facilities across Castlemilk and conclude with a cuppa and a bite to eat!
·
As you can see there is a variety of holistic programmes such as our Sew Fabulous (upcycling sewing); Wellness/Life Long Learning and Gardening and at the end of week, we always finish and celebrate the week’s success together at our Grub’s Up Community Meal.
Stage 4 –announcement of the winners:-
· Twilight Classes – a serious of evening classes for those that can’t access daytime classes due to work/ childcare commitments.
Are you (or someone you know) age 66+ with a total income under £200/week ? If so check if you are entitled to
https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator
Pension Credits THOUGHT
It also entitles those aged 75 and above to a free TV licence. You could also get £150 off your electricity bill for winter period under the Warm Home Discount Scheme. The money is not paid to you - it’s a one-off discount on your electricity bill, between October and March.
Pension Credit:
D
id you know that Energy Efficiency while cooking could save you money? Keep a lid on it! Did you know that using a lid on your pots when cooking speeds up the cooking time? This is because the lid keeps the heat in the pan, reducing the energy required to cook your food. Shut that door! When Using the oven Every time you open the oven door, you decrease the internal temperature by 25 to 50 degrees, which ultimately just adds to your total cooking time because the oven then has to reheat itself. Instead, keep your oven window clean so that you can monitor the status of your food from the outside. Try turning the oven off 5 mins before the end time. The residual heat will be enough to finish the dish and you will save energy
Microwave They provide a much more energyefficient way of cooking, (up to 80% less energy) than conventional ovens.
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FOOD for
Generally cooking food much faster!
Electric pressure cookers and air fryers all consume significantly less energy than ovens, so using these instead, if possible, will save you money. Time to take it slow………… Slow cookers are a great option for low maintenance, low carbon cooking. Using less energy than a traditional oven makes them cheaper to run, plus all you need to do is add the ingredients in the morning and a few hours later you have a hot meal ready to Lynne,serve.our Energy Advisor is always on hand to offer advice and support.
A normal thermostatic mixer shower head discharges about 9/10 litres per minute, requiring about six litres of hot and three litres of cold.
Potential savings switching traditional or halogen bulbs for LEDs
A “typical” bath requires about 90 litres of water, split between 60 litres or so of hot water and 20 to 30 of cold.
Traditional or incandescent light bulbs were invented more than 100 years ago and are extremely inefficient. Only about 5% of the electricity they use converts into visible light. What’s more, the bulbs don’t last long because the filament that creates the light evaporates as heat passes through
WATT100 incandescentbulb WATT60 incandescentbulb WATT40 incandescentbulb WATT75 incandescentbulb Save up to £13 per bulb per year Save up to £6 per bulb per year Save up to £4 per bulb per year Save up to £8 per bulb per year
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Switching incandescent bulbs to LEDs (Based on 1,100-lumen bulb running for 562 hours per year) (Based on an 660-lumen bulb running for 445 hours per year) (Based on an 440-lumen bulb running for 394 hours per year) (Based on an 825-lumen bulb running for 503.5 hours per year)
he light produced by energy-efficient lightbulbs is measured in lumens, not in watts. A traditional 60 W incandescent bulb can produce about 800 lumens, while an LED or CFL bulb could produce 800 lumens at a fraction of the energy use.
Smarter about water and swap your bath for a shower Spend less time in the shower, 4-5 mins MAX
•
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What is the difference between energy efficient light bulbs and normal ones? Is it cheaper to run a bath or a shower?Answer:It’scheapertohaveashower
Both your energy and water supplier can provide information, including meter readings and bills, in a suitable format. This could be in Braille, large print, audio tape or via textphone or Typetalk. They can also help you with any enquires or to make a complaint using these formats.
If you rely on electricity to power vital medical equipment in your home, your energy supplier can give you advance notice if your supply is going to be interrupted for planned work. This will give you time to make alternative arrangements. Water companies will provide advance notification of work on water supply when a customer has registered with them as being on dialysis.
Page 24 Priority Service A ny customer with sight or hearing difficulties, or who is disabled, chronically sick or of pensionable age is eligible for their energy suppliers’ priority service register. Free services for gas and electricity include: • Password protection scheme • Conveniently located prepayment meters • Regular meter readings service • Communication services for those with hearing and visual impairments • Bill nominee scheme • Advance notice of electricity supply interruption • Priority services in an emergency • Annual gas safety checks Regular readingsmeter Energy suppliers are only required by law to read meters once every two years. If you are over 60, orhavesick,chronicallydisabledorahearingvisualimpairment, your supplier can read your meter for free every quarter if no-one is able to do this for you. This will mean you are paying bills based on actual energy use rather than estimates. protectionPassword scheme You can agree a unique password with your supplier which staff will use when visiting your home. This enables you to be confident that the person you let into your home is genuine. visualwithservicesCommunicationforthosehearingandimpairments
Advance notice of supply interruption
Page 25 Service RegisterHowtoaccessanyoftheseservices Contact your supplier if you would like any of these services. If it is easier for you, your supplier can make the arrangements for you through a friend, relative or carer (or any third party, for example social services, or your nominated advice bureaux or housing association). They can be contacted by: • telephone • letter or email • a form on their website • textphone or Typetalk or in Braille, large print or audio tape Your supplier’s contact details will be on the back of a gas or electricity bill, or on an annual statement if you use a prepayment meter. Special arrangements to communicate with customers requiring assistance in case of an emergency Your energy and water companies can put communicatinginarrangementsspecialplacefor with you in case of an emergency, for example if you require alternative communication methods such as personal phone call or visit. locatedConvenientlymeters If you are disabled and cannot easily access your electricity or gas prepayment meter your supplier can move the meter to a convenient location for you, as long as it is possible to do so safely. Some companies might apply a charge for this, so check with your supplier.
Page 26 Rising Fuel Costs * Information correct as of 25/05/22 W orried about the rise in fuel costs? The current price cap, which applies until 31 September 2022, is £1,971 a year - and that amount was a £693 rise (54%) from the previous cap six months *Nowearlier.Energy price cap expected to rise by £830 to £2,800 in October. 1. Switch off lights in empty rooms 2. Close curtains at dusk 3. Set thermostats correctly Hot water tank thermostat between 60-65C Room thermostat between 18-21C (or 21-23C if there are older people, very young children, or someone with health difficulties in the home) 4. Turn electrical appliances off at the plug rather than leaving them on standby 5. Only fill the kettle with as much water as you need each time you boil it 6. Cook with lids on pans and match ring size to saucepan size 7. Avoid placing furniture in front of a radiator 8. Wait until you have a full load before using a washing machine, and try using a lower temperature (30C) 9. Use a shower instead of a bath if possible 10. Tumble dryers cost a lot to run – dry clothes outside or on a clothes rail for free Help to Claim is a dedicated service from Citizens Advice. It’s free, independent and confidential. Call us for free: 0800 023 2581 (Scotland) 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday. Chat to an adviser online at cas.org.uk/helptoclaim (available 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday) Get help applying for Universal Credit Contact the office tofind out how to accessan appointment withour Energytoday!Advisor Help?Need
First up was their “Future Seeds” programme, which saw local families joining us across four sessions to participate in a fun packed itinerary filled with fun activities and food. All sessions saw us learning all about the amazing natural environment surrounding the Maureen Cope Community Hall and how our fascinating plants support local animal and insect life! A big Thank You is given to Castlemilk Together: Community Food Action, who made this possible by awarding us with funding from their allocation of the GCC Holiday Food Programme for 22/2023.
FEELS GOOD!
Next up was our summer Family Trip to Heads of Ayr Farm Park, which took place on Friday 5th August. Two packed coaches left Tormusk Road with our excited families on board for a family day filled with laughter and fun! You will see from the photographs that a great day was had by all who attended.
O
TENANT EVENTS ARE BACK AND… IT
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ur hard working Community Committee were delighted to see life finally going back to normal, which meant they could deliver more events that were less restrictive from the Maureen Cope Community Hall. Following their successful Afternoon Tea’s during the Easter holidays, they set about planning their programme of events and activities across the Summer holidays!
Children’s Halloween Party
This Halloweenyear’s Party at the Maureen Cope Community Hall will be held on Friday 28th October from 6pm – 8pm. Tickets are open to children who are aged pre-school to Primary 7, with prizes for the best costume. Ho, Ho, Ho-pe you can make it to gamesfilledforChristmasChildren’sPartyaneveningwithfun,andaspecial visit from the BIG Man himself!
Children’sChristmas Party
This year’s party at the Maureen Cope Community Hall, will be held on Friday 8th December from 6pm – 8pm. Again tickets are open to children who are aged pre-school to primary 7. This year’s lunch will be held in conjunction with our regular 3B’s (Bite, Blether & Bingo) on Tuesday 15th December from 12pm – 3pm and will be held in the Maureen Cope Community Hall. We promise a delicious festive feast, a seasonal sing song and of course a flying visit from a very special visitor!
FORTHCOMING TENANT EVENTS FOR AUTUMN/WINTER 2022
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AUTUMN FAMILY DAY A Fright of a Night!
A
A cost of £2 for an individual or £5 for a family ticket applies. Please note that tickets are allocated on a first-time basis and that you must be an Ardenglen tenant to qualify. If you or family have additional support needs, or any special requirements please contact Fiona McGovern, Community Investment Manager on 0141 631 5041 or 07969 182330 to discuss.
This year’s Family Fun Day will take place in the Maureen Cope Community Hall on Friday 15th October from 11am – 2pm. An array of free fun activities have been organised for the whole family to enjoy.
We are looking to return to the East Kilbride Village Theatre on Thursday 24 November. This year’s cast have began working on their performance of Sleeping Beauty, where we will see the comedy duo back for a side splitting performance.
FUN
Young @ Heart Festive Fun! It’s Panto time again... Oh, NO it’s NOT…. Oh YES it is!
fter the success of our summer events, our Community Committee have been busy organising events for Autumn & Winter for 2022! Why not check out our EVENTS CALENDAR and if you fancy something pop into the office today for tickets! Tickets will be on sale Thursday 1 and Friday 2 September.
Page 29 Area operationof Target PerformanceQ4 achievedTarget % rightcompletedrepairsfirsttime 95% or over 97.7% Yes A repair is right first time if it is completed on time and without the need for a recall visit % propertiesof with a gas withincompletedcertificatesafetyayear 100% 100% Yes Target met Average days taken to relet empty houses 12 days 11 days Yes Target met % rent due lost beingpropertiesthroughempty Below 0.23% 0.03% Yes Target met Current tenant rent arrears as a % of rent due Below 4.5% 2.8% Yes Target met Who can complain? Anyone can make a complaint to us, including the representative of someone who is dissatisfied with our service. When complaining, tell us: • your full name and address • as much as you can about the complaint • what has gone wrong • how you want us to resolve the matter How do I complain? You can complain in person at our office, by phone 0141 634 8016, in writing, or email info@ardenglen.org.uk. Getting help to make your complaint We can take complaints from a friend, relative, or an advocate, if you have given them your consent to complain for you. If you have trouble putting your complaint in writing please tell us. How to make a complaint Performance Quarter 4 – 1 January to 31 March 2022
The Association will be reviewing thecomplaint trends for the full year aspart of the Annual Complaint Reportprocess and assessing whether thereis any more learning that could beimplemented around communicationas this has been one of the mainsources for complaint over the lastCovidyear. has caused a huge disruptionto our repairs contractors which hasseen them experience problemssourcing materials, staff shortagesas well as a backlog of repairs builtup during lockdown that they arecatching up with. We meet with our contractorsregularly to discuss any serviceissues and will continue to monitortheir service.
Page 30 Complaints Performance Complaints Received Between 1 January to 31 March 2022, we received 21 complaints. Timescales to resolve When a complaint is received, we aim to resolve the matter within 5 working days however if the complaint is more complex and requires a full investigation we aim to respond within 20 working days. Complaints Upheld & responded to within timescale • Upheld Complaints – 9 • Partially Upheld – 2 • Not Upheld – 7 • Resolved – 3 • 90.4% responded to within timescale. We have a new complaint outcome to report on from quarter one. We are now able to report on the number of Resolved Complaints. Resolved complaints are complaints that have been resolved to both the customer and our staff team’s satisfaction. We hope to see an increase in the number of resolved complaints going forward. You Said, We Did We are always looking at ways we can improve our service and review feedback to help us make our services better for you. Compliments We received a compliment from a customer who was happy with the professionalism of one of our contractors when in her home carrying out some repair work. Customer Feedback Your feedback means a lot to us whether it be a complaint or a compliment or just some general thoughts on our service. All of your feedback helps Ardenglen shape our services for the good of all our tenants. You said... We received a number of complaints about communication in the last few months. This extends to our contractors also. Some complaints this quarter arose from frustrations over delays to acquire replacement parts which is out with the Association’s control. We Did...
Page 31 How your rent money is being spent A rdenglen aims to be as transparent as possible, so with this in mind, we intend to keep you informed by publishing our quarterly financial results. During the twelve months from April 2021 to March 2022 - the income receivable was £4.649 Million and from this the expenditure incurred to deliver our service was £4.405 Million. This is how your rent has been spent over these twelve months. “TOP TEN” AREAS OF SPEND Ardenglen would also like to publish our “Top 10” expenditure items, on a quarterly basis, which will hopefully give you an insight into our key areas of spend. If you have any further questions or would like additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Michelle Hart from our Finance & Corporate Services Team. Ardenglen has developed a robust Business Planning Model for investment in your homes and community. Any surplus we report will be re-invested at a future date in line with our business goals and objectives. Salaries/ staffing costs Reactive Repairs Planned & Cyclical Maintenance Management & Maintenance administration Depreciation Regeneration Interest Paid on Loans Money set aside for future investment Total Staffing Costs Day to Day Repairs Repairs to Empty Homes Landscape Maintenance IT Equipment & Telecom Close GasBalconyBoilerPropertyCleaningInsuranceReplacementsRefurbishmentsServicing £55,264£63,612£63,648£77,273£88,539£107,038£146,217£231,334£621,319£1,050,08823% 20% 19% 9% 16% 5% 5% 4%
Keep updated with everything Ardenglen by liking us on facebook - here is the link below: Ardenglen Facebook Association-102918612196567/)facebook.com/Ardenglen-Housing-(https://m. We use facebook to promote our services and to keep tenants up to date with important changes such as the implementation of Universal Credit. In addition to this we are collating tenant email addresses. Email is a fast, free method of communication and gives you the opportunity to contact us at any given time. If you have an email address please call us to let us know on 0141 634 8016, email us at info@ardenglen.org.uk or private message us on Facebook. We have a new Ardenglen Facebook Account! Have you followed us NUMBERSEMERGENCYyet? Councillors facebook.com/ Useful Contacts C ouncillors for your local area are listed below. Full contact and surgery details can be found at 0141 287 2000 or visit the Council’s website: www.glasgow.gov.uk • Catherine Vallis 0141 287 7031 • Bailie Paul McCabe 0141 287 4663 • Margaret Morgan 0141 287 0224 • Malcolm Cunning 0141 287 3937 If you need any assistance regarding councillors please call our office on 0141 634 8016 where a member of staff will be happy to assist. Emergency phone numbers when our office is closed: • For all central heating and hot water emergencies please call City Technical Services on 0333 202 0708 • For any other emergency repairs that happen after hours, please select the appropriate trade below: Electrical – 07957 585233 / Joiner – 07957 585266 / Plumber – 07445 831330 • When reporting a repair please advise the contractor you are a tenant of Ardenglen Housing Association. • Report a repair free phone line 0300 303 8000 – this number is not available during public holidays. PLEASE NOTE OUR OFFICE CLOSES AT 12PM EVERY WEDNESDAY FOR STAFF TRAINING. OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED FOR PUBLIC HOLIDAYS ON: FRIDAY 23 AND MONDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 2022. Ardenglen use the Big Word translation service. Please get in contact with us if you would like a copy of any of our publications in another language.
