As the weather turns colder and Christmas approaches, we’re here to help you stay warm and informed. This edition is packed with tips on keeping your home safe and cosy during the winter months, along with updates on how we’re supporting our tenants every step of the way.
You’ve asked to know more about what we do beyond collecting rent, so here’s a look at what we’re doing. Inside, you’ll find details on new projects, fresh ideas, and our Tenant-Led Service Improvement Group. Plus, find out how you can get involved and help make a difference.
Get to know our chairperson and find out what it’s like to lead Barrhead Housing. We’ll also give you the latest on our midmarket rent properties, which should be ready just in time for Christmas.
Enjoy the read and let us know what you’d like to see in the next edition of The Anchor.
Lorna
Chief Executive
Winter 2024
Christmas Office Hours
Our office will be closed from 1 PM on Tuesday 24 December and reopen on Monday 6 January 2025.
For emergencies during the festive period call
Gas or hot water issues? Contact Gas Sure
In this edition:
• Big News – Hanover Stock Joins Barrhead page 3
• Meet Barrhead’s Chairperson – Discover more about John page 2
• Connor Road Mid-Market Rent – Move in by Christmas page 4
• Tenant-Led Service Improvement Group Unveiled – Get the Inside Scoop page 8
Meet The Team
Meet our passionate and dedicated Chairperson, John Hamilton.
John is the Chairperson of Barrhead Housing Board, and his job is to lead the team, ensure strong governance, and drive positive change in the community. With a focus on empathy and service, he’s committed to improving lives and making a real impact in Barrhead and beyond.
About me
A local boy through and through. Born in Nitshill and with over 45 years spent in Barrhead and Neilston, John’s roots are deeply planted in his local community. Though he’s travelled the world, including a memorable trip to Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War, his heart has always stayed close to home.
Skills I Bring to the Role
As Chairperson since 2021, and a member of the Board since 2014, John brings a wealth of experience and a strong sense of empathy to the role. His passion for community service drives him to continually seek ways to make a difference.
Thinking of Joining a Board?
Here’s a Quick Tip
John’s advice to anyone considering a board position: “It’s not as scary as it seems - give it a try.” He believes that with the right mindset, anyone can step up and contribute meaningfully.
Fun Fact
Outside of work, John’s happiest moments are spent with his 5 grandchildren. As the plaque on his wall says, “Grandchildren fill a hole in your heart you never knew was empty.”
Dream Big
John’s big dream?
A future where the government provides the resources and support to eliminate poverty and homelessness across the country. He believes real change is possible with the right commitment and action.
We’re thrilled to share that Hanover Scotland tenants have voted to transfer to Barrhead Housing, to receive even more localised services and support.
Janice McDonald, Head of Housing at Hanover Scotland, said, “This transfer will allow tenants to benefit from Barrhead Housing’s highly regarded, locally focused services. We’re confident that their strong community ties and excellent customer service will enhance the experience for all.”
We can’t wait to welcome our new tenants and level up the services we provide with a dedicated customer services officer and a local office for face-to-face support.
Rest assured, this is a smooth transition as tenants’ rights and agreements remain unchanged, while they benefit from our 40 years of expertise in affordable housing.
Read the full article on Scottish Housing News by following this link: https://www. scottishhousingnews.com/articles/ hanover-properties-transferred-tobarrhead-housing-association
Alba AppreciationMonthly Staff Shoutout
Each month, we recognise a Barrhead Housing team member who truly lives our values of Respect, Aspiration, Dedication, Adaptability, and Responsiveness.
This month’s shoutout goes to Karen Devon, our Corporate Services Officer! Karen revamped our newsletter, making it friendlier, more interesting and engaging and the feedback has been fantastic.
On top of that, Karen has shared insights from her recent leadership course, inspiring her colleagues and peers to bring their best selves to work.
Well done Karen for demonstrating aspiration.
Good News Corner
Over £30k Funding
Secured for Environmental Sensors
We’re thrilled to announce that Barrhead Housing has been awarded over £30k in funding to install cutting-edge environmental sensors across 28 sheltered housing properties. The funding comes from the smart and connected social places innovation fund and advanced wireless technology Glasgow City Region Council.
These smart sensors will monitor key factors like temperature, humidity, air quality, and energy use - ensuring our residents’ homes are safe, healthy, and comfortable. From detecting dampness or poor air quality to helping prevent fuel poverty, this investment will make a BIG difference.
A huge step forward in integrating smart technology into social housing, Barrhead Housing is leading the way in using innovation to enhance wellbeing. The sensors will be installed by Christmas, with ongoing support to keep homes safe and sustainable.
Vesta by Barrhead – Affordable Living, Ready for You
12 modern flats – ready to welcome tenants before Christmas.
9 one-bedroom & 3 two-bedroom flats – perfect for individuals, couples, or smaller households.
Move-in ready with carpets and window coverings included.
Prime location: Just 4 minutes from the train station and close to all your favourite shops and amenities.
Mid-Market Rent: Perfect for local residents seeking affordable housing without the barriers of social rent, private rent, or home ownership.
Demand is high and viewings are taking place in early December.
If you are interested contact vesta@barrheadha.org
News and Updates
Annual Assurance Statement 2024
Barrhead Housing’s Governing Board has completed a thorough self-assessment, ensuring full compliance with regulatory and safety standards.
We’ve:
• Reviewed performance across finance, tenant safety, and more
• Consulted with tenants through our Service Improvement Group
• Maintained strict oversight on safety measures like fire, gas, and damp compliance This commitment reflects our dedication to governance excellence and continuous improvement. Access the full statement on our website: https://barrheadha.org/annual-assurancestatement/
Fire Safety Tips for a Safe and Merry Christmas
The holidays bring joy, warmth, and special moments, but fire risks are higher with decorations, cooking, and winter heating. Keep your home safe and festive with these easy tips:
Check Your Tree & Decorations
If you have a live tree, keep it fresh and water it often. A dry tree is a fire hazard. Keep your tree away from radiators, heaters and fireplaces. If you have an artificial tree, ensure it is fire resistant.
Fairy lights keep our spirits bright but faulty ones can be a fire hazard. Check your lights for frayed wires, never overload a socket and always turn them off before leaving the house or going to bed.
Safe Cooking
Don’t leave cooking unattended. Keep flammable items like towels, oven gloves and kitchen roll away from the heat. NEVER use water on an oil fire. Stay alert in the kitchen.
Maintain Heating Equipment
Space heaters equal cosy vibes, but keep them three feet away from anything flammable, and always turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed.
Have an Escape Plan
In case of emergency, make sure everyone knows the quickest way out. Test smoke detectors and change the batteries if needed.
Stay safe and enjoy a worry-free, festive season.
News and Updates Supporting You New Survey
Phone Number
We’ve upgraded our repair system AND revamped how we gather your feedback – because your voice matters.
Important: Save Our Number
All survey texts will come from 07908 665 213. Save this number to ensure you always recognise it’s from Barrhead Housing.
Introducing Our New Repairs Survey: Here’s How It Works
1. After a repair, you’ll get a text asking if you’re up for a quick survey.
2. Say ‘Yes’ and rate your satisfaction in a follow-up message.
Thank you to everyone who completed our recent priorities check in survey. This informed our plans for next year. Congratulations to Mr Andrew who won £100 for taking part
Rent Consultation Coming Soon:
Your Chance to Win
We’ll be kicking off our rent consultation soon. Take part for a chance to win £200, £100, or £50 this February. Don’t miss out.
Your feedback helps us make sure you’re happy and our contractors deliver excellent service.
Rent Payments – We’re Here to Support You
With Christmas fast approaching, we know finances can get tight. But remember, staying on top of your rent is key to keeping your home secure. Your rent is the only income we have to pay for your home improvements, services and repairs.
How to Pay Your Rent:
• Allpay (online or app)
• Bank transfer
• Post Office
• PayPoint at retail outlets
• Phone or in-office payments (Note: We’re closed Dec 24th - Jan 6th for Christmas break)
Need more info or payment options?
Head to our website https://barrheadha. org/my-home/pay-rent/
If your rent is covered by Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, you’re all set.
Struggling? We’re here to help. Call our friendly Customer Services Hub at 0141 881 0638, email enquiries@ barrheadha.org, or reach out to your Customer Services Officer directly.
Supporting You
Winter Alert: How Keeping Your Heating on Saves You Money &
As the cold weather kicks in, it’s tempting to lower the heat to save energy - but that can actually cost you more. Here’s why you should keep your heating on:
• Prevent Frozen Pipes
• Maintain Indoor Air Quality
• Save Energy
• Stay Warm & Cosy
• Protect Your Home
A steady temperature keeps your home safe, warm, and energy efficient. Need help managing your heating this winter? Contact us - we’re here to help.
Energy
“Be Well Counselling”
How is your mental health?
Did you know RAMH offer counselling support to Barrhead Housing customers?
The ‘Be Well’ Project work with individuals who are generally experiencing heightened levels of emotional distress This can be for any number of reasons, for example, loss, bereavement, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, work difficulties or mild to moderate depression
The service offers up to 12 sessions with a qualified counsellor
Tackling the Housing Crisis Together
With housing emergencies declared locally and nationally, we’re stepping up to make a difference. To support those in need, 50% of our empty homes are now being offered to customers facing homelessness.
How we’re allocating homes:
• 35% to customers on our waiting list
• 10% for existing customers needing a different home
• 5% for customers with specialist support needs
We’re committed to ensuring the right balance in our communities. For more details on how we allocate homes, visit our website https://barrheadha.org/
Engaging With Our Customers
Tenant Led Service Improvement Group: Get the Inside Scoop
Our Tenant Led Service Improvement Group (SIG) has been busy over the past few months. They’ve worked tirelessly, presenting key recommendations for changes and ongoing improvements to our empty homes process to our Governing Board and senior management team.
Two of our amazing members, Gillian and Marion, took to the stage at our AGM and Governing Board meeting to share why they joined the SIG and the impact they’ve made.
Gillian says, “Curiosity is in our nature—we’re naturally nosey! We wanted to get the real scoop on what it’s like to be a Barrhead tenant, because who better to have an opinion than us?”
Marion says, “We’re just normal people, but we care deeply about Barrhead Housing and everything it does for our community. Here’s what we’ve learned so far.”
• There’s WAY more happening behind the scenes than we thought
• We’ve gained a whole new respect for the Barrhead staff - managing empty homes, contractors, and all the logistics is no easy feat.
• The cost of things and unforeseen delays - definitely eye-opening.
Three of our tenants from the Service Improvement Group recently attended the Tenants Information Service Scotland Annual Conference. They got to attend workshops and hear from speakers on:
• Public Health Scotland’s talk on “Why the Housing Crisis is Also a Public Health Emergency”
• An international perspective from the Swedish Union of Tenants
• Delivering Positive Outcomes for Communities
• Scotland’s Tenants Participation and Engagement Network
• Housing Regulation in Scotland
• the Gilfoot Tenants and Residents Action Group’s journey
Annette said, “It was a really informative day—learning what other tenants and housing associations are up to. Bryan, our Community Investment Manager, was also one of the speakers, presenting the Brighter Futures Project, and I felt so proud to be a Barrhead Housing Tenant.” (You can learn more about Brighter Futures on page 12)
Next up for the Service Improvement Group: Testing the brand-new customer portal. They’ll be giving feedback on how user-friendly it is, so stay tuned.
Blackburn Square Development Update
Barrhead Housing, in partnership with East Renfrewshire Council, is set to create six new, energy-efficient homes at Blackburn Square (on the former site of Auchenback Community Centre).
The Council has transferred the land to us, and we’ve appointed John Gilbert Architects while engaging key stakeholders. The site investigation is complete, and we’re now procuring a team of specialist consultants to shape the project. Our goal is to apply for planning consent by early 2025.
Exciting times ahead. Stay tuned for more updates.
Got Damp or Mould? Let’s Fix It.
Dealing with damp and mould is a top priority for Barrhead Housing. If you notice any signs in your home, contact us ASAP to arrange an inspection—we’re here to help.
There are different types of damp:
Rising and Penetrating Damp: Caused by water entering the building. This needs to be addressed quickly to prevent further damage.
Condensation: Comes from everyday activities like cooking, showering, or drying clothes. If moisture can’t escape, it can lead to mould.
Here’s how you can help:
• Keep your home warm to reduce cold surfaces.
• Improve ventilation by using extractor fans and opening windows.
We understand rising costs make this tough, but early action is key. Contact us today so we can work together to keep your home safe and healthy.
How to Use Trickle Vents for a Healthier Home
Did you know most of our windows come with trickle vents?
These small, adjustable vents allow fresh air to flow into your home, even with the windows closed.
Prevent Condensation: Especially useful in rooms with high moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
Improve Air Quality: Keep cooking fumes, smoke, and cleaning chemicals at bay.
No Cold Air: Only a small, controlled amount of fresh air enters, so your home stays comfortable.
Check your trickle vents. If they’re closed, slide them open for a breath of fresh air.
Kitchen Replacements
We’ve partnered with MCN to bring stylish Howdens kitchens to your homes. So far, 83 kitchens in central Barrhead have been fully upgraded, with over £350k invested this year alone.
Keep checking our website and socials for updates as we continue transforming your living spaces.
Window & Door Transformations
We’ve been busy upgrading homes, replacing windows and doors in 104 properties across South Park Avenue, North Park Avenue, and Centre Way.
Next up: 77 properties on Henry St, George St, Mill Road, Carlibar Rd, Main St, and Walton St.
Our mission? To boost the quality and energy efficiency of your homes while helping you save on energy costs.
Estates Update
Big Congrats to Our Winners
The winners were chosen by Barrhead Housing board member and local resident, Lesley-Anne Junner.
• Mairi Livingstone – Winner of the Good Neighbour Award
• Mrs. Carroll – Winner of Best Garden
A big Barrhead shoutout to both of you. We’re incredibly proud of your outstanding contributions to our community.
Get ready for next year’s competition – we can’t wait to see your entries. Keep an eye on our website and socials for all the details.
When: Monday 2 December
Time: 12–3 PM
Where: Thorntree Hall, Main Street, Thornliebank
Come along and have a chat with Zubeida Yusuf, our Customer Services Officer. We’re here to listen, help, and support you.
Mairi Livingstone
Mrs Carroll
Community Investment
Brighter Futures
Barrhead –
18-Month
Impact Update
Return on investment is £7,770,056 in Social Value
805 individuals benefitting from life-changing support
498 already seeing improved quality of life
226 personal development sessions for children & young people with 212 young people engaged in toddler groups, drama, & outdoor education
43 incredible volunteers contributing their time
6,931 volunteer hours giving back to the community
7 qualifications earned
134 energizing exercise classes
79 creative arts & crafts sessions
98 hands-on food waste cooking workshops
20 mother & baby support sessions, helping 42 families
108 digital engagement sessions connecting more people online
65 children received new school uniforms
71 weekly food share sessions, providing 30 bags of food
Kerri’s Journey: Growing, Connecting, and Making a Difference at Barrhead Housing
Hi everyone! I’m excited to share my journey so far with Barrhead Housing. This incredible experience has given me hands-on opportunities to work closely with our vibrant community, strengthening my communication skills, empathy, and understanding of social issues - key skills that will help me excel in my Social Work career.
From engaging with diverse groups to building meaningful relationships (shoutout to the amazing residents at the sheltered housing complex), every moment has taught me the value of teamwork and the unique strengths that everyone brings to the table.
This experience has been truly life-changing, and I’m loving every step of the way as I prepare to pursue my BA (Hons) Social Work at Glasgow Caledonian University.
Oh, and a fun fact about me - I’m also a qualified dance teacher.
Barrhead Housing and its wonderful people have helped me grow so much, and I can’t wait to use what I’ve learned to make a real difference.
Community Investment
Partner Spotlight:
Thrive Under 5
Well done to our amazing partners at Voluntary Action East Renfrewshire. They are helping families with children under 5 thrive by offering access to:
• Nutritious food & healthy eating support
• Cooking workshops for parents & kids
• Oral health advice
• Money advice
• And much more ...
Get involved today. Reach out via the Community Hub website
https://eastrencommunityhub.org.uk/ or call 0141 876 9555 for more info.
Migration to Universal Credit: Key Information
If you’ve received a Migration Notice, contact us immediately to discuss your rent.
What is Managed Migration?
Managed migration is when people on means-tested benefits and tax credits are moved to Universal Credit.
The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) sends a letter called a ‘Migration Notice’ to invite you to claim.
What to Do if You Receive a Migration Notice
• Don’t ignore it: You must claim Universal Credit within 3 months of the notice date, or your current benefits will stop.
• Transitional Protection: Claim before the deadline, and if you’re worse off under Universal Credit, DWP may provide extra payments to cover the difference. Miss the deadline, and you may lose this protection.
Need More Time to Claim?
If your deadline hasn’t passed, ask DWP for an extension. If approved, they’ll send you a new deadline.
How to Claim Universal Credit
Apply online at https://www.universal-credit.service. gov.uk/start. Most claims take at least an hour to complete.
Prepare your documents using this guide: https://www. gov.uk/universal-credit/how-to-claim. You can also call the Universal Credit helpline at 0800 328 5644.
Need Help?
Contact us at 0141 881 0638 or email enquiries@ barrheadha.org to speak to a team member.
Did You Know This About Us?
At Barrhead Housing, we’re always looking for ways to improve and make a difference! Here’s how:
Innovating with Humley:
Thanks to the creativity of Mark McLean, Customer Services Advisor, we’ve rolled out smarter housing options - giving us more time to focus on what matters most: YOU, our tenants.
Sustainability Champions:
We’re learning, committing, and taking action to create a greener future.
Value for Money:
By simplifying systems, we’ve saved money to reinvest in services for you.
Trauma-
Informed Care:
With recent trauma training, we’re working to make our services more understanding and supportive.
Listening to You:
Our team regularly reviews tenant feedback, compliments, and complaints to improve our services.
Work experience and placements:
At Barrhead, we offer exciting opportunities for all. Whether you’re looking to build your skills, gain hands-on experience, or kickstart your career, we’re here to help. Interested? Get in touch today at enquiries@barrheadha.orgwe’d love to hear from you.
You Said, We Did
Our landscaping service and estate need more attention You said…
You said...
We are worried about personal finances
We did...
Increase frequency of staff visits to our estate to ensure work is carried out to the expected standards
Identify households struggling to offer personalised support with the cost of living We did…
You said…
We want upgrades to our homes to be a priority
We did...
Provide information to customers on their own homes on when they can expect improvements to kitchens, bathrooms etc
Call us: 0141 881 0638
Email: enquiries@barrheadha.org
We believe that everyone deserves to live in a secure, good quality, well-maintained home within communities that are safe, supported and inclusive. Follow us facebook Follow us on Facebook Tweet @BarrheadHousing We are always here to help
Web: www.barrheadha.org
Out of hours repairs: 0800 652 0633
Download the Barrhead Housing App from the Google or Apple Stores.
Office and Drop-In Hours
Day Office Hours Drop-In Locations Team Member
Monday 9AM – 5PM Auchenback Resource Centre 10:30AM – 12:30PM
Auchenback Resource Centre 10AM –1PM (First Monday of each month)
