Thenew Newsletter Autumn 2009

Planning Permission for our London Road/Green Street Development has

been approved

Full Story Page 7

1979 - 2009Thenew Housing Association began life in October 1979, starting in a small basement office in Anderston with one member of staff. Founded to provide development and management services to associations that were too small

to employ their own staff, Thenew has grown into an organisation of 65 staff owning some 2,800 properties across Glasgow with a management committee made up of 18 volunteers.

The move to the EastEnd in 1995 meant that we

became the landlord to some 1450 tenants and since then have acquired further properties through both our new build programme and transfers of stock.

At the heart of our work during these 30 years has been our commitment to rebuilding communities and to supporting local people in their efforts to improve the areas they live in.

Around theHOUSES

Newsletter for Thenew Residents Autumn Edition

STOP PRESS

Celebrating 30 Years of ThenewIn 1979

A pint of lager cost

40p

A litre of petrol less than 23p

A loaf of bread 29p

A packet of 20 cigarettes

58p

In 2009

A Pint of lager costs

£2.75

Litre of Petrol £1.03

Loaf of Bread 80p

A packet of 20 cigarettes

£5.50

2

Welcome to our latest newsletter which

celebrates our 30th anniversary (See pages 14 & 15). We hope you

enjoy this edition.

Our 4 newsletters a year are a way of trying to keep

you up to date on the work we do and we try hard to cover most of what we have

been up to. We also have a website with news on it.

There might however be things you want more information on, or perhaps you want

to know about something we haven’t covered in the newsletter.

If that’s the case then just ask! It’s as simple as that. I will make it my business

to answer any questions you have.

All you need to do is either

E-mail [email protected]

Text 07919 304124

Phone 0141 550 7210

Write to83 Green Street, Glasgow. G40 2TG

CONTENTS WELCOME BY CHARLIE TURNERCHIEF EXECUTIVE

GAS SAFETY CHECKSOur Aim is to achieve 100% access for our Gas Engineers

with only one visit

Help us achieve this and keep you,

your family and your house SAFE and get in touch

with us to arrange a convenient appointment

To get in touch with us you can

Give us a call on 0141 550 7220

Text us on 07919 304119

Drop into 83 Green Street

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Welcome

Page 3Annual General Meeting

Page 4-6Technical Update

Page 7Development Update

Page 8-13Around the Areas

Page 14-15Gala Day Roundup

Page 16-17Garden Competition

Page 18Supported Accommodation

Page 19Wider Action

Page 20-21Credit Unions

Page 22Student Finance

Page 23 Policy Review

Page 24Community Conference

2 3ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

News from our 29th Annual General MeetingOur Annual General Meeting, (AGM), took place on the evening of 15th September 2009. It was very well attended and the normal business of an AGM was concluded; The Chairperson’s report, the Chief Executive’s report, approval of the accounts and the re-appointment of Alexander Sloan as our auditors for the coming 12 months.

In particular, three long-standing Management Committee members who stood down, with a collective 51 years service, were thanked for their contribution. They were:

Aileen ChristieColin PorteousJohn Jackson

The new Management Committee for the coming 12 months was also elected, and this is shown below:

We are also pleased to announce that Yvonne McShea is our Chairperson for the coming 12 months and Willie Redmond our Vice-Chairperson.

this is shown below:

TECHNICAL UPDATE TECHNICAL UPDATE 4

As part of the Association’s commitment to ensuring that all our properties meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard by 2015, Apollo Group have recently won the £1.3 million contract to fi t new windows

550 properties in the Bridgeton and Calton area will benefi t from this investment and tenants affected will have already received a letter advising them of approximately when we will install their new windows

The new windows will be high performance double glazed UPVC windows and improve comfort levels by cutting out draughts and reducing noise, Residents affected by the programme should feel free to contact either Charlene Dupree our Tenant Liasion Offi cer on 0141 550 7222 or 07919 304 118 or Mark

Fletcher, Apollo Site Manager on 07917 263 559 if they have any queries.

Thenew awards Window Renewal Contract

First Time Access Prize Draw

The Association is carrying out a quarterly prize draw for those tenants who let us in ‘fi rst time’ to carry out the electrical tests. The fi rst quarter winners were drawn at our annual AGM held on the 15th September 2009 by our Chairperson Yvonne McShea.

The winners for May - July ‘09 are

Ticket No. 3Mr McDonald - Bridgeton

Ticket No.18Ms Meehan - Bridgeton

Ticket No.31Miss McCabe - Bridgeton

TECHNICAL UPDATE TECHNICAL UPDATE 5

Tenants Say Yes to Gas Heating

The majority of tenants in our all electric houses have indicated that they wish to have gas central heating installed to replace their old electric storage heaters, Thenew with funding from Scottish Govertment and Energy Providers is now able to offer tenants the opportunity to have a modern, efficient, controllable heating system installed. This work is now being progressed and it is hoped that the first new heating systems will be installed by March 2010

“I can hardly wait for my new gas system to be installed. The old storage heaters are very inflexible, with gas I will be able to deal with changes in the weather at once! Says Mrs Gordon, Dale Street

Working for Our TenantsEach year the Association receives funding from the City Council to allow us to respond to requests for medical adaptations for tenants who require them. These adaptations can range from simple requests for handrails through to the installation of specially adapted showers.

Our award of £117,000 for the period from April 2009 to March 2010 has allowed us to complete

48 adaptations which will improve the quality of life for those tenants.

We continue to receive adaptation requests and we will be approaching the Council to ask for more funding so that those on the waiting list can be progressed.

First Time Access Prize Draw

6 TECHNICAL UPDATE DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

THE DIGITAL SWITCHOVER IS COMING, ARE YOU READY?The Association has decided to install an Integrated Reception System within all common closes. This system will provide digital terrestrial television and satellite services from a communal aerial/dish.

Tenants would still have to pay for satellite TV but the digital terrestrial would be free.

For more information on the digital switchover visit www.digitaluk.co.uk or call 08456 50 50 50

WATCH THIS SPACE FOR MORE DETAILS

As Hard as Stone?Sandstone tenements are an important part of Glasgow’s heritage but many of these buildings are over 100 years old and even something as hard as stone can deteriorate due to the environmental and weather conditions.

In order to ensure that the stonework is in good condition and that there is no danger of bits falling off onto people below, the Association will be carrying out a survey of all our sandstone properties so that any essential repairs can be identifi ed early before they become a hazard.

Any owners involved will be contacted, if repairs are necessary in advance, unless immediate action is required for health and safety reasons.

Planning Permission Granted

7TECHNICAL UPDATE DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

THE DIGITAL SWITCHOVER IS COMING, ARE YOU READY?The Association has decided to install an Integrated Reception System within all common closes. This system will provide digital terrestrial television and satellite services from a communal aerial/dish.

Tenants would still have to pay for satellite TV but the digital terrestrial would be free.

For more information on the digital switchover visit www.digitaluk.co.uk or call 08456 50 50 50

WATCH THIS SPACE FOR MORE DETAILS

As Hard as Stone?Sandstone tenements are an important part of Glasgow’s heritage but many of these buildings are over 100 years old and even something as hard as stone can deteriorate due to the environmental and weather conditions.

In order to ensure that the stonework is in good condition and that there is no danger of bits falling off onto people below, the Association will be carrying out a survey of all our sandstone properties so that any essential repairs can be identifi ed early before they become a hazard.

Any owners involved will be contacted, if repairs are necessary in advance, unless immediate action is required for health and safety reasons.

Planning Permission GrantedThe development at London Road/Green Street took a step nearer when the Council’s Planning Applications Committee granted planning permission on 8th September 2009.for the development of 20 fl ats, new offi ces and the Aberlour project.

Planning permission for 17 houses was previously granted in July.

Ruby Street Nears Completion

The £3.8 Million development of 24 properties in Ruby Street, Bridgeton is rapidly nearing completion.

Tenants from the fi rst properties due to be handed over have been in to measure up and it is hoped that they will be in their new homes by the end of October.

The Association is now looking to secure Building Warrent and to fi nalise the selection of the contractor to hopefully allow work to begin on site this year.

The Changing Face of BridgetonA number of Bridgeton residents and local businesses continue to work closely with staff at the Clyde Gateway offices on the imminent Public Realm Improvements to the Cross. The key areas of improvements, as detailed below, were all development following comprehensive consultation with residents, community groups, local schools, and local businesses - to name but a few!! This has ensured that local concerns and needs have been met.

The Umbrella: This ‘A’ listed structure will be restored to redefine it as a key and symbolic feature in its location at Bridgeton Cross

The Streetscape: A more attractive pedestrian space will be created where all clutter will be removed to provide a cleaner and more inviting environment. New street furniture will also be added.

Traffic: Unauthorised parking is to be removed to provide a pedestrian dominated space. Loading bays and taxis are to be relocated to adjacent streets and a new pedestrian crossing is to be created. New bus shelters are also to be installed as well as improved cycle access across the space

Lighting: The design will produce a safe and well-lit environment - which was a priority for all residents at the consultation stage

Planting & Trees: Existing large trees will be removed and new tree planting more suited

to the Cross will be planted. Planters will also be provided which will provide an attractive new feature to soften and add colour to the space.

Underground Toilets: Local residents felt it appropriate that these be filled in.Railings will be removed and the area resurfaced to tie in with the overall scheme design of the Cross Safety & Security: Existing CCTV cameras will be upgraded

First Bus Service ChangesService 16,18, 18A, 18C, N18, 43, 46 and 89/90

The Bridgers Group are still working very hard to improve services within their area of operation which covers Abercromby Street / London Road/ Kerr Street & Kerr Drive and Bridgeton Cross. They recently asked for a meeting with First Bus to discuss concerns regarding the lack of services and routes available from the Bridgeton area. A representative attended and announced that they were revising their timetable of operations for the above services as of Sunday 25th October. For more information on the changes contact First Bus on 0141423 6600 or www.firstgroup.com

Rest in Peace

We were all saddened to hear about the deaths of Mr Hugh McGinnigle and his wife, Cathy. They were stalwarts of the lunch club at 71 Main Street every Wednesday. Without fail, they would set up the tables, ready for meals arriving (except when they were on holiday in Blackpool.) The support from both of them has contributed to the success of the lunch club. They will be sadly missed.

BRIDGETON & DALMARNOCK

Bridgeton Office: 2 Main Street, Bridgeton, G40 1HATel: 0141 554 5245 Fax: 0141 554 5758 E-mail: [email protected]

Office Opening Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm Wed 9.00am - 12.30pm

CASTLEMILK

Castlemilk Office: 49 Blaeloch Drive, 0/2, Castlemilk, Glasgow, G45 9QJTel: 0141 634 7000 Fax: 0141 634 7077 E-mail: [email protected]

Office Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 9.30am - 12.30pm

8

The Changing Face of BridgetonA number of Bridgeton residents and local businesses continue to work closely with staff at the Clyde Gateway offi ces on the imminent Public Realm Improvements to the Cross. The key areas of improvements, as detailed below, were all development following comprehensive consultation with residents, community groups, local schools, and local businesses - to name but a few!! This has ensured that local concerns and needs have been met.

The Umbrella: This ‘A’ listed structure will be restored to redefi ne it as a key and symbolic feature in its location at Bridgeton Cross

The Streetscape: A more attractive pedestrian space will be created where all clutter will be removed to provide a cleaner and more inviting environment. New street furniture will also be added.

Traffi c: Unauthorised parking is to be removed to provide a pedestrian dominated space. Loading bays and taxis are to be relocated to adjacent streets and a new pedestrian crossing is to be created. New bus shelters are also to be installed as well as improved cycle access across the space

Lighting: The design will produce a safe and well-lit environment - which was a priority for all residents at the consultation stage

Planting & Trees: Existing large trees will be removed and new tree planting more suited

to the Cross will be planted. Planters will also be provided which will provide an attractive new feature to soften and add colour to the space.

Underground Toilets: Local residents felt it appropriate that these be fi lled in.Railings will be removed and the area resurfaced to tie in with the overall scheme design of the Cross Safety & Security: Existing CCTV cameras will be upgraded

First Bus Service ChangesService 16,18, 18A, 18C, N18, 43, 46 and 89/90

The Bridgers Group are still working very hard to improve services within their area of operation which covers Abercromby Street / London Road/ Kerr Street & Kerr Drive and Bridgeton Cross. They recently asked for a meeting with First Bus to discuss concerns regarding the lack of services and routes available from the Bridgeton area. A representative attended and announced that they were revising their timetable of operations for the above services as of Sunday 25th October. For more information on the changes contact First Bus on 0141423 6600 or www.fi rstgroup.com

Rest in Peace

We were all saddened to hear about the deaths of Mr Hugh McGinnigle and his wife, Cathy. They were stalwarts of the lunch club at 71 Main Street every Wednesday. Without fail, they would set up the tables, ready for meals arriving (except when they were on holiday in Blackpool.) The support from both of them has contributed to the success of the lunch club. They will be sadly missed.

BRIDGETON & DALMARNOCK

Bridgeton Office: 2 Main Street, Bridgeton, G40 1HATel: 0141 554 5245 Fax: 0141 554 5758 E-mail: [email protected]

Office Opening Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm Wed 9.00am - 12.30pm

CASTLEMILK

Castlemilk Office: 49 Blaeloch Drive, 0/2, Castlemilk, Glasgow, G45 9QJTel: 0141 634 7000 Fax: 0141 634 7077 E-mail: [email protected]

Office Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 9.30am - 12.30pm

9

Thenew Housing Association are continuing negotiations with GHA in regards to purchasing their housing stock in the Holmbyre part of Castlemilk. We have already submitted our Business Plan to GHA and were hoping to ballot the tenants in November, however this date is not likely to be achieved due to some unresolved matters between both organisations. The Management Committee (some of whom are pictured right) along with staff are continuing to work hard to make the transfer a reality for the tenants in Holmbyre – we’ll keep you posted!

Urban Fox have continued their excellent work over the holiday period with our local young people.

The fun included activities such as Mountain Biking, Kayaking and Gorge Walking for the 12 – 16 year olds whilst other activities like, sports, arts & crafts, interactive gaming and team games were open to youngsters from age 5 and took place at Kings Park Secondary School.

Second Stage Transfer Update

Are You Looking for Housing?

The Castlemilk Team manage houses in the Netherholm and Holmbyre (GHA)

areas and often have vacancies for 2, 3 and sometimes 4apts

If you are interested please contact the Castlemilk Team

CALTON

Calton Office: 83 Green Street, Calton, Glasgow, G40 2TGTel: 0141 550 3581 Fax: 0141 550 2433 E-mail: [email protected] Opening Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm Wed 9.00am - 12.30pm


CALTON10Team News

Sheree Greenhorn has joined us as a temporary Repairs Assistant. Sheree has been working with the Association since she began as a Modern Apprentice in April 2007 and we are delighted that she has joined the team to deal with your repairs. Sheree is covering for Kevin McGregor who has a temporary post at our Bridgeton offi ce.

Kevin Dunsmuir, our Housing Assistant completed the gruelling Fresh ’n’ Low 10k on Sunday 6th September to raise funds for the Sargent Clic charity, a hospice for young cancer sufferers. Kevin only began training by running round Glasgow Green some mornings in the week before the run, so he was delighted to complete the run in 51 minutes raising £300. Well done, Kevin.

Local Councillor Surgeries

As your local councillors were made homeless following the closure of St James Primary School, they have accepted our offer to use the Associations offi ce in Green Street for their local surgeries. Councillor surgeries are held on the second Tuesday of each month between 3.30 and 4.30pm, see local press for details.

Elcho Gardens

Thanks to the Calton Area Committee at Glasgow City Council who approved the funding for Land and Environmental Services to do some environmental works at Elcho Gardens in March. The works to this area have now been completed and make a huge difference.

Community fl at

The Area Association are renting a fl at in Stevenson Street for use as a Community fl at and are planning to use this as a base for their operations. The Committee are working on plans of what kind of other use this fl at can be to the Calton community.

More details will follow as these plans develop, but the Area Association will welcome your views and opinions.

CALTON



CALTON 11Community Capacity Building

In January 2009 The Government agency “Learning Connections” invited organisations who work with communities to apply with a good idea about what they would like to do to improve community capacity building activity and to use newly developed guidance material to help drive forward that idea. Thenew submitted a proposal to support Calton Area Association to ‘’ develop a fully functioning effective representative body which can help set standards for their community and develop a positive image of the Calton area”.

We were one of only four organisations in Scotland to be chosen for the pilot programme.

Workshops took place weekly, covering a range of planning skills and decision making techniques. The workshops also covered methods of community consultation. As a result of these sessions, the Area Association hosted a very successful community event which took place on 6 June. From a standing start and in just 8 weeks, it was no mean feat to achieve an information and fun day - which drew hundreds of people in to St James Primary School.

Following the event an action plan to take forward the views expressed by the community was developed and will shortly be presented to local people, relevant agencies and local elected members.

It’s been a lot of hard work all round but hopefully the people of Calton will start reaping the benefi ts of the ideas in the plan.

Calton Area Association AGM An early notice that the Area Association are planning to hold their Annual General Meeting on Thursday 26th November 2009. If you are interested in joining the Area Association (the only meeting you need to attend is the Annual General Meeting once per year), you can get an application form at our offi ces in Green Street.

Flying the fl ag for Thenew and for ScotlandWe promised to let you know how our local boys football team, Shawfi eld 1996, gets on. Well they came 5th in the league. In addition they entered two teams in a 7-a-side tournament – and came fi rst and second! They had a trip to Germany to take part in a tournament which was a great experience and overall have had a fantastic year. Thanks to all the coaches and the parents for their support over the season.

If you have a child, age around 13, and are interested in knowing more, then contact Ben Queenan on 07790 252971

Cranhill Office: 14 Ruchazie Place, Cranhill, Glasgow, G33 3HATel: 0141 774 3030 Fax: 0141 774 3366 E-mail: [email protected]

Office Opening Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 9.30am - 12.30pm and 1.30pm - 4.30pm Wed 9.30am - 12.30pm



12 CRANHILL/BLACKHILL/BAILLIESTONCRANHILL/BLACKHILL/BAILLIESTON

Cranhill Area Association Summer Trips

It’s been a busy summer this year with two trips being organised, one to Loudoun Castle – the usual annual family trip and one to Blair Drummond Safari Park in recognition of the Area Association’s 10th anniversary.

“It was great to finally be able to offer the trip to Blair Drummond Safari Park, it’s something we have wanted to do for a long time now but, because of our limited funding, it hasn’t been possible. So many thanks to Thenew for donating 50% of the cost, without this it couldn’t have happened.” Anne McIver, Cranhill Area Association Chairperson.

Blackhill Money Advice Project

At last, great news! Funding for this project has been approved for a further 18 months, which has allowed us to adapt the service to suit the needs of more tenants.

The advice surgery has moved to St Paul’s Church Hall and is open each Monday (except public holidays) from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, appointments are no longer necessary – you can just drop in, but if you prefer to make an appointment, call the team at Cranhill Area Office and this can be arranged. Davie Birrell, the Money Advice worker can also visit you at home if you have difficulties getting out.

Remember help and assistance is available on a range of money matters, see below for details:

• Reducing debt• Maximising your income• Improving your money management and budgeting skills• Preventing homelessness• Housing and Council Tax Benefit issues

If you are still unsure if this service can help, contact the local office and staff can advise. Please remember this is a completely confidential service.

Memories are made of This!Do you have memories of growing up and living in Cranhill?

Local people are working to tell the ‘Cranhill Story’ and are interested in hearing from you.

Why not pop into the FACT office at 6 Crowlin Crescent on Tuesday between 10am and 3pm and tell us your story.

This project is in partnership with FACT, Thenew Housing Association, Cranhill Community Project, Cranhill Arts Project, Playbusters and local schools. However, first and foremost, it is for the people of Cranhill: past and present.

Rest in PeaceJohn Kerr 1937 - 2009

We were all saddened to hear about the death of John Kerr, a man who spent his life fighting to improve the lives of people in the East End.

John founded the Cranhill Credit Union and helped set up a

local food co-operative and arts project.

Cranhill Area Association AGM

The AGM, held on 3 September 2009, addressed a few important changes required to their constitution, These changes which related to: annual accounts, committee attendance and quorum at the AGM were approved.

The meeting heard reports from the Chairperson and Treasurer, approved the annual accounts and presented the awards for the Garden Competition awardsHelen McGuinness won this year’s raffle, a £20 Asda Voucher – congratulations Helen.

Cranhill Estate Action GroupWorking for Cranhill

The Action Group has been focusing on the poor condition of British Telecom boxes, Scottish Power Sub Stations and post boxes.

This is being followed up with the agencies and we hope to see an improvement soon.

Meanwhile we have asked Glasgow Community & Safety Services to use their Environmental Officers to address issues of dog fouling and litter and we hope to see an improvement in the area.





13CRANHILL/BLACKHILL/BAILLIESTONCRANHILL/BLACKHILL/BAILLIESTON

Cranhill Area Association Summer Trips

It’s been a busy summer this year with two trips being organised, one to Loudoun Castle – the usual annual family trip and one to Blair Drummond Safari Park in recognition of the Area Association’s 10th anniversary.

“It was great to finally be able to offer the trip to Blair Drummond Safari Park, it’s something we have wanted to do for a long time now but, because of our limited funding, it hasn’t been possible. So many thanks to Thenew for donating 50% of the cost, without this it couldn’t have happened.” Anne McIver, Cranhill Area Association Chairperson.

Blackhill Money Advice Project

At last, great news! Funding for this project has been approved for a further 18 months, which has allowed us to adapt the service to suit the needs of more tenants.

The advice surgery has moved to St Paul’s Church Hall and is open each Monday (except public holidays) from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, appointments are no longer necessary – you can just drop in, but if you prefer to make an appointment, call the team at Cranhill Area Office and this can be arranged. Davie Birrell, the Money Advice worker can also visit you at home if you have difficulties getting out.

Remember help and assistance is available on a range of money matters, see below for details:

• Reducing debt• Maximising your income• Improving your money management and budgeting skills• Preventing homelessness• Housing and Council Tax Benefit issues

If you are still unsure if this service can help, contact the local office and staff can advise. Please remember this is a completely confidential service.

Memories are made of This!Do you have memories of growing up and living in Cranhill?

Local people are working to tell the ‘Cranhill Story’ and are interested in hearing from you.

Why not pop into the FACT office at 6 Crowlin Crescent on Tuesday between 10am and 3pm and tell us your story.

This project is in partnership with FACT, Thenew Housing Association, Cranhill Community Project, Cranhill Arts Project, Playbusters and local schools. However, first and foremost, it is for the people of Cranhill: past and present.

Rest in PeaceJohn Kerr 1937 - 2009

We were all saddened to hear about the death of John Kerr, a man who spent his life fighting to improve the lives of people in the East End.

John founded the Cranhill Credit Union and helped set up a

local food co-operative and arts project.

Cranhill Area Association AGM

The AGM, held on 3 September 2009, addressed a few important changes required to their constitution, These changes which related to: annual accounts, committee attendance and quorum at the AGM were approved.

The meeting heard reports from the Chairperson and Treasurer, approved the annual accounts and presented the awards for the Garden Competition awardsHelen McGuinness won this year’s raffle, a £20 Asda Voucher – congratulations Helen.

Cranhill Estate Action GroupWorking for Cranhill

The Action Group has been focusing on the poor condition of British Telecom boxes, Scottish Power Sub Stations and post boxes.

This is being followed up with the agencies and we hope to see an improvement soon.

Meanwhile we have asked Glasgow Community & Safety Services to use their Environmental Officers to address issues of dog fouling and litter and we hope to see an improvement in the area.

This year Thenew has been celebrating its 30th Anniversary and we wanted to involve our communities in this celebration.

We know the effect the current economic climate is having on our residents and we felt the best way to celebrate was not a lavish, expensive event in a hotel, but by providing some more fun at the Gala days helds annually in each

of our communities. We provided a free to ride bucking bronco and bouncy

castle at each event.

We hope thoses who went along to the the gala days enjoyed themselves and below are some photos of the events that have been held over the summer.

CELEBRATING OUR 30th BIRTHDAY

GALA DAY ROUNDUP GALA DAY ROUNDUP14

CELEBRATING OUR 30th BIRTHDAY

GALA DAY ROUNDUP GALA DAY ROUNDUP 15

16 17GARDEN COMPETITION ROUNDUP GARDEN COMPETITION ROUNDUP

This year the Calton Area Team nominated gardens for the competition from those they admired while out and about in the estate. This led to lots more entries than last year, a credit to all of you who made the effort to produce beautiful gardens this year.

Drew from Land Engineering was this year’s judge and he faced a tough job in eventually deciding the winners as the pictures of the gardens show. Thanks to everyone who

attended the prize giving at Tureen Street on 28th August. Tea and cakes were served and prizes awarded of Asda gift vouchers, a plaque or certificate and a shrub and planter kindly donated by Land Engineering.

This years hardworking winners and runners up are pictured here at the prize giving.

Best House Garden1st place Mr Deignan of Claythorn Court2nd place Mrs Beveridge of Chalmers Gate

Best Tenement Garden1st place Mr McAllister of Millroad Street2nd place Mr Mooney of Green Street

Best Communal Garden1st place Residents, 154 Tobago Street2nd place Residents of 5A & 5B Millroad Street

16 17GARDEN COMPETITION ROUNDUP GARDEN COMPETITION ROUNDUP

This year’s garden competition in the Cranhill and Blackhill areas saw

Cranhill: Peter Brown, Bellrock View (Best House) Mr & Mrs Proctor, Startpoint Street (Best Flat) Blackhill: Kathleen Stewart, Hogganfield Street (Best House) Esther Cairney, Queenslie Street (Best Flat)

The winners are pictured receiving their prizes.

Judging for the Bridgeton Garden Competition had not taken place by the time this newsletter went to press. Details of the Prize winners will be included in the next newsletter.

This year’s garden competition in the Castlemilk area was won by

House Garden Winner – Mr. Mrs P O’Hare, of 1 Holmbyre Court, Castlemilk

Flat Garden Winner – Mr S Gordon, of 56 Blaeloch Drive, Castlemilk

The winners received a £25 B & Q gift voucher and are pictured above recieving them

SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION18

Calton Sheltered Housing celebrated its 25th Birthday by holding a Tea party

and an evening dance in June this

year.

The events were a big success and also helped raise £1000 for Marie

Curie Cancer Care

WIDER ACTION

Supported Housing The sheltered tenants in Calton have been busy over the summer months with their annual bus run to Ayr as well as a trip to the Pavilion Theatre in September to see a Glasgow based play “Oor Hoose”.

Our Silver Surfers computer class held in 35 Tureen Street has re-started after the summer break and is proving to be as popular as ever and is now fully booked.

We are currently organising our Christmas Events - Bridgeton’s will be held on 10 December in the Bowlers Club and Calton’s date and venue has still to be decided but more information will be available from Ann or David.

Care Providers HandbookStaff have been working hard to produce a Handbook for the Care Providers who support our tenants with a 24 hour package of care. The Handbooks provide comprehensive information on the houses, ranging from arrangements for furniture renewal, repairs reporting and our long term programmes for replacing and renewing certain components within the house. We plan to regularly review and update the Handbooks to ensure our Care Providers and tenants have as much information as possible about our houses and the services we provide.

SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION 19

West of Scotland Seniors ForumCalton Group Seeks New Members!

West of Scotland Seniors Forums are organisations established to engage with local organisations to ensure that local issues affecting older people are addressed. Jointly, they represent the interests of 400,000 seniors in 12 local authority areas and are the umbrella body for over 90 local groups.

The Calton group meets the first Thursday of each month at 10.30am at Tureen Street and has recently been dealing with issues such as the condition of the

roads and lack of pavements around Millroad Drive. This means older people being forced to walk on the road, and the lack of maintenance or gritting in the winter causes this surface to be unsafe underfoot when the conditions are icy.

The Forum is seeking new members. If you are an older person living locally and have an interest in your community, you are welcome to become involved. For more information, contact David or Ann at Tureen Street (Tel: 554 7904) or simply pop along on the day of any meeting.

WIDER ACTION

We are continuing to develop our Financial Inclusion service which is something you have told us you are keen to see us do.We are delighted that we have received an offer of grant from Scottish Government which will allow us to employ 2 people who will be working with Willie Sinclair over the coming year . Our partners in this project are Glasgow East Regeneration Agency and Citizens Advice Bureau, and they will also help with recruitment and training for the new staff.

We were also sucessful in our application for an Administration Assistant post through Future Jobs Fund, a fund setup to create jobs across Scotland. The post is for one year, and recruitment will be organised by the Job Centre Plus along with us, and is aimed at longer term unemployed.

We expect all posts to be filled by late October 2009.

These additional resources will mean Willie will have the back up administrative support he needs to process claims etc and so the team will be able to help even more tenants with money matters and welfare rights issues.

Financial Inclusion service – going from strength to strength

2020 CREDIT UNIONSCREDIT UNIONS

Glasgow Credit Union (GCU), a not-for-profit organisation specifically for people who live or work in Glasgow, is keen to remind residents that they remain a safe place to save and borrow with rates and payment plans to suit every budget.

Despite being in the middle of one of their busiest periods ever, GCU are still welcoming new members and urge anyone who is looking to borrow money to contact them before going to their bank or considering more costly doorstep or payday loans.

GCU are responsible lenders. All loans are based on affordability and are available for just about any purpose. Fantastic low rates make a GCU loan the smartest way to borrow. Check out a few loan examples below.

Loan amount

TypicalAPR Term Monthly Equivalent

to

£500 11.6% 1 yr £44.20 £10.19 per week!

£1500 11.6% 2 yrs £69.92 £16.13 per week!

£5000 9.9% 5 yrs £104.94 £24.22 per week!

In comparison, doorstep lenders can charge interest ranging from 254.5% APR to a whopping 433.4%! This means that over the term of the loan you will pay back approximately 2-4 times the original loan amount, money GCU think would be better in your own pocket or saved for a rainy day!

It’s not just about saving and borrowing at Glasgow Credit Union. There are a full range of services to suit most budgets, such as the Credit Union Current Account, Mortgages, Junior Accounts, Child Trust Funds and Christmas Savings Club.

To take advantage of the fantastic services at GCU or simply to find out more, call Glasgow Credit Union today on 0141 274 9933 or visit their website at www.glasgowcu.com

SCOTCASH Affordable Finance for Christmas

How are you going to pay for Christmas this year?

Remember to plan carefully, investigate your options and if you need to borrow money, find out exactly how much it will

cost you to repay. For example:

£300 over 31 weeks Scotcash Home CreditBorrow £300 £300

Admin Fee £15 -

Total APR 48.55%* 365.1%**

Total Repayable £336.16 £465.00

Weekly Repayment £10.36 £15.00

Total Saving £128.84

*Rates may vary **Loan featured on www.providentpersonalcredit.com Feb

‘08

Can you afford to pay out more than £100 more than you need to?

Contact us for more information or if you need money advice, a savings account or

a bank account.

55 High Street Glasgow

0141 276 0525

FOR CHRISTMAS LOAN APPLICATIONS, BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

Need some Advice on benefits, debt, credit options then contact your local Thenew office to make an appointment with Willie Sinclair our Financial Inclusion Officer

20 21

Credit Unions in Your Area!CREDIT UNIONSCREDIT UNIONS

SCOTCASH Affordable Finance for Christmas

How are you going to pay for Christmas this year?

Remember to plan carefully, investigate your options and if you need to borrow money, find out exactly how much it will

cost you to repay. For example:

£300 over 31 weeks Scotcash Home CreditBorrow £300 £300

Admin Fee £15 -

Total APR 48.55%* 365.1%**

Total Repayable £336.16 £465.00

Weekly Repayment £10.36 £15.00

Total Saving £128.84

*Rates may vary **Loan featured on www.providentpersonalcredit.com Feb

‘08

Can you afford to pay out more than £100 more than you need to?

Contact us for more information or if you need money advice, a savings account or

a bank account.

55 High Street Glasgow

0141 276 0525

FOR CHRISTMAS LOAN APPLICATIONS, BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

Baillieston94 Main Street, Baillieston, Glasgow, G69 6SLTel: 0141 771 1771 Email: [email protected]

Bridegton, Calton & Dalmarnock9 Bridgeton Cross, Bridegton, Glasgow, G40 1BNTel: 0141 550 4171 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bcdcreditunion.co.uk

Carmyle12 Quebec Wynd, Carmyle, Glasgow, G32 8AH Tel: 0141 641 7730

Carntyne, RiddriePO Box 2274, 45/47 Gartcraig Rd, Glasgow, G33 2NWTel: 0141 770 8200 Email: [email protected]

Cranhill4 Crowlin Crescent, Cranhill, Glasgow, G33 3PHTel: 0141 774 6403

Haghill Dennistoun316/18 Duke Street, Dennistoun, Glasgow, G31 1QZTel: 0141 554 9595 Email: [email protected] Website: www.hdcu.org.uk

New EasterhouseEasterhouse Shopping Centre, Unit 40 Shandwick Sq, Glasgow, G34 9DTTel: 0141 771 0004

Parkhead922 Springfield Road, Parkhead, Glasgow, G31 4HETel: 0141 551 8387 Email: [email protected] Website: www.parkheadcreditunion.co.uk

Ruchazie, Garthamlock & Craigend427 Gartloch Road, Ruchazie, Glasgow, G33 3THTel: 0141 774 4123 Email: [email protected]

Shettleston, Tollcross1290-1294 Shettleston Road, Shettleston, Glasgow, G32 7YRTel: 0141 764 0276 Email: [email protected]

Castlemilk155 Castlemilk Drive, Castlemilk, Glasgow, G45 9UGTel: 0141 631 2952 Email: [email protected]

Glasgow SouthUnit 3, 192 McNeil St, Gorbals, Glasgow, G5 0NZTel: 0141 429 4363 Email: [email protected]

Need some Advice on benefits, debt, credit options then contact your local Thenew office to make an appointment with Willie Sinclair our Financial Inclusion Officer

22 23MONEY MATTERS

Student FinanceIf you are returning to Further or Higher Education then ensure you receive the fi nancial support that you are entitled to. Below is some basic information on the different fi nancial support available to students.Mature Students ( Students who are 25 years of age or over at start of course).

Mature students’ income consists of a Student Loan, Lone Parent Grant, Child Tax Credit and Child Benefi t. The maximum loan for mature students is £4625 p/a. This is for a course of typical length, longer courses may get more. Application should be made through SAAS. The loan must be repaid once gross income is more than £15,000 per annum.

Lone Parent Grant

The Lone Parent Grant is for students bringing up dependent children on their own. The maximum amount is £1305 p/a. It does not need to be paid back. Applications should be made to SAAS.

Young Students (Students under 25 years of age at start of course.)

Young students’ income mainly consists of a Young Students’ Bursary, Student Loan, Lone Parents Grant, Child Tax Credit and Child Benefi t. Young students who have children are assessed by SAAS as independent students, therefore their parents’ income will not be taken intoaccount when making an award.

Additional Help and Financial SupportStudent Financial Adviser

Universities and Colleges employ Student Finance Advisers who give students information on the money they may be entitled to while studying. Colleges and Universities also offer hardship funds and Childcare Bursarys. See your College or University for more information on what’s available.

Disabled Students Allowance

Students who have a disability may be entitled to extra fi nancial assistance to cover personal help and specialist equipment they may need while studying. Help can be substantial. Contact SAAS for more details.

For more information on the different fi nancial support available for students check out www.saas.gov.uk, call SAAS on 0845 111 1711 or contact Thenew’s fi nancial inclusion offi cer Willie Sinclair by contacting your local offi ce

Policy Reviews

Student Finance

22 23MONEY MATTERS

Thenew has reviewed the following policies in recent months:

Rent Arrears Policy: This policy sets out the firm but fair approach we will take with tenants who are in rent arrears. It outlines what we can do to help if you face difficulty paying your rent but also clearly outlines the action we will take if you can pay but won’t.

Estate Management Policy (including Close & Window Cleaning and Maintenance of Tenants Gardens): These policies detail what tenants’ and Thenew’s responsibilities are in terms of managing the way our estates look. The policies state what we can do but also what we expect tenants to do to keep their areas in good condition. We have now merged these policies into one document.

We will be reviewing the following policies over the next few months.

Service Standards: This document sets out the level of service you can expect when you contact our offices in person, in writing or by telephone. It also details what action you can take if we fail to deliver a high standard of service.

Customer Complaints Policy: This policy details what action you can take if we fail to deliver a high standard of service and the issue cannot be informally resolved.

Void Management: This policy details how we deal with properties which are empty and how we try to minimise the rent we lose when properties are void.

Tenant Involvement Strategy: This policy details how we will inform, consult with and involve our tenants and other customers in Thenew’s decision making processes. We want to involve tenants in reviewing this policy and so, if you would like to be involved please contact Alison Kevan on 0141 550 7224.

If you would like any further information on any of these policies or documents or would like to comment on any of them, please contact your local Thenew office. All existing tenants and residents groups will be given, or will have had an opportunity to comment on and discuss these policies, at one of their regular meetings.

Policy ReviewsPolicy ReviewsPolicy Reviews

HELP US TO DELIVER EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE

COME ALONG TO OUR COMMUNITY CONFERENCE

Following on from the success of last year’s event, we will be holding our Community Conference in Bridgeton Community

Learning Campus on Wednesday 4th November 2009.

At the conference we are keen to get your views on a number of issues related to the way we deliver our services to you.

We will also be showcasing several pieces of new technology which could help us be more efficient in our customer service.

The conference will start at 9.45am and will finish around 3pm. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.

Spaces are limited so you need to book your place in advance.

If you would like to attend the conference, please contact Sheena on 0141 550 7214 or [email protected]

Invitations will also be issued shortly to the tenants and residents associations we work with and those people who

are members of Thenew.

As the conference coincides with our 30th anniversary those attending will be entered into a prize draw to win X Factor

Live tickets.

We hope to see you there.

Community Conference Invitation

Thenew Newsletter Autumn 2009

Documents

Transcript of Thenew Newsletter Autumn 2009