10_POSH Issue 12_Summer 09

Issue 12 - Summer 09

08605 posh mag 11.indd 108605 posh mag 11.indd 1 11/6/09 16:56:3911/6/09 16:56:39

The Last Word...I was sitting in the garden at 10am on the glorious fi rst of June 09 when my daughter relayed the message – “Lucinda and Maeve said they did not want to be nags but could you please send on those articles you promised two, or was it three, weeks ago. They want them by 4pm!”

I grabbed the laptop and thought: ‘what words of wisdom could I pass on to POSH readers which would contribute to the success of NIFHA’s Members in the future?’. So here goes:

One of the duties as NIFHA’s Chair is to attend an extensive number of meetings – all necessary but which serve to confi rm a human frailty common amongst attendees, including myself. As I have chaired a fair proportion of those meetings I must also shoulder a considerable degree of responsibility for permitting the fault I am about to complain of...verbosity.

I have found there is a tendency to regard every meeting as an opportunity for people to raise their pet project. To make their Single Transferable Speech and abuse their listeners by using up valuable time on issues which, while worthy themselves, are often not on the agenda.

A closely allied fault, common to many meeting participants, is feeling the need to say something to justify their attendance and/or prove their participation at the meeting. This is compounded by

the use of cliches in place of ideas. How often do we hear the words or phrases:-

• Challenges • Journeys• Partnerships• Capped budgets• Audit• Accountability• Targets• Subsidy levels• Risk management• Procurement• Cross-cutting• Capacity building

Buzz Word Bingo anyone? I could go on. The point of this rant is to advocate the almost lost skill of listening. I want to encourage meeting participants to listen carefully and edit themselves before they take the step of opening their mouths to speak... yes, you’re allowed to breathe. If we could all master these practices meetings would be more effective, members would fi nd them more useful and when good weather comes to Northern Ireland we would have more time to enjoy it. Isn’t it just as well that these are my fi nal comments?

Frank DunneNIFHA Chair

Contact detailsNIFHA38 Hill StreetBelfastBT1 2LBT: 028 9023 0446F: 028 9023 8057E: [email protected]: www.nifha.org

© NIFHA 2009

Please note: the views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of NIFHA.

NIFHA cares about the environment – POSH is printed in Northern Ireland using paper with at least 50% recycled content from sustainable managed forests. When you are fi nished with it please ensure POSH is sent for recycling to help reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfi ll. Thank you.

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ContentsThe Front Cover Story

Lord Best Interview

A word from the C Ex

An EU Review

Equality Matters

New Schemes

Winning Ways

Green Rules

To the Future

NIHACT

Community Counts

FAQs

Members

45

Please note:If you would like to register your interest in becoming a Committee or Board member for a Housing Association, contact NIFHA for an application pack on 028 9023 0446 Email: [email protected] or go online to www.nifha.org and click into NIFHA Governance.

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POSH’s Front Cover Story

A new chapter in the social housing movement recently opened when Abode and Presbyterian Housing Associations amalgamated. Since their registration in 1982 and 1977 respectively, both have been highly successful making a real difference to the lives and well being of many people.

Last year the boards of each association considered the ever changing movement and saw an opportunity to create a strong, vibrant housing association if they merged. Consequently, two became one when Abode became Linked to Presbyterian Housing Association and ALPHA, with nearly 950 units, was launched in April. Pictured on POSH’s front cover at the offi cial launch with Margaret Ritchie MLA, Minister for Social Development, are tenant representatives (l-r) Moreen Wright, Christel Matthews and Jean Hamilton.

After his election as Alpha’s fi rst Chair Alastair Giffen said: “Just as Alpha is at the start of the Greek alphabet we view the creation of Alpha Housing as a new start for two Associations with a proven record. This is not an arranged marriage. It is a union of two partners who share the same ethos and core values. Our backgrounds lie in the provision of quality housing and support for older people and this we continue to see as our niche market. We are looking forward to working closely with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, the Department for Social Development and our partners in the Accord procurement group to identify further development opportunities”

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Alastair Giffen, Alpha Housing’s Chair receiving the association’s papers from the Minister for Social Development Margaret Ritchie MLA.


Lord Richard Best OBE, one of the UK housing sector’s most senior fi gures, has a long-standing connection to Northern Ireland. This includes involvement in establishing the Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations (NIFHA) in the late 70s.

He is currently leading the Commission on the Future for Housing in Northern Ireland which was launched in April 09. The Commission’s purpose is to offer positive solutions by setting out a long-term vision for the future role of the housing system here. It has been organised by leading housing bodies in Northern Ireland and is facilitated by the Chartered Institute of Housing. NIFHA is one of many organisations supporting the Commission.

What can we, and our member associations, do to contribute to this important work?There are many people in the housing association movement with useful or innovative ideas and I encourage everyone to submit this type of information via the Commission’s website (www.cih.org/your _ location/ni/index.php), as Commissioners Alyson Kilpatrick, Greg Lloyd and I plan to read everything. It would be helpful if contributors could give examples of schemes or potential solutions already in place – perhaps for other purposes. From whatever angle and whether it is small items or big strategic issues we are keen to receive a range of submissions so nothing is overlooked.

Housing is integral to so many areas of life; will this make the work of the Commission more diffi cult in light of the already broad terms of reference?The remit is broad but the skills range of the Commission members is broad too, so we should be able to cope with the bigger picture and when handling the detail. The reality is that housing is part of community, place and neighbourhoods. Housing itself is seldom either the cause or the solution to major social issues but it can make

problems better or worse. It will be our task to test the macro aspects against the micro.

One objective of the Commission is to publish a report containing specifi c recommendations on a strategic direction for housing and a roadmap for a way forward.

Given the challenges facing the housing sector how will you spot the important ideas?We will start by trying to identify critical diffi culties – the issues that must be dealt with. We welcome a wide spectrum of contributors from residents to academics and from landlords / service providers to those who develop strategy. We will consider good practice from other parts of the United Kingdom and Ireland or even further afi eld. Then we will try to identify relevant ideas and determine what offers the best fi t. We will take a problem solving approach.

Finally, can you outline the timescales?The Commission will gather information over the summer and hopes to produce an Interim Report by mid-autumn before fi nalising the work by March 2010.

4 posh - Summer 09

An interview with… Lord Best OBE


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Chris Williamson,NIFHA Chief Executive

A wordfrom the C Ex...

Let’s Learn from Experience!

The Federation of Housing Associations warmly welcomes the independent Commission on the Future of Housing in Northern Ireland. We look forward to submitting evidence and engaging in dialogue with Lord Richard Best, Alyson Kilpatrick and Greg Lloyd.

The wave of goodwill for the Commission, and the buzz of anticipation of its report, remind me of September 06 when David Hanson MP (then Minister for Social Development) asked Sir John Semple to recommend measures to alleviate the housing affordability crisis.

In my opinion, it is useful to consider what lessons can be learned from the Semple inquiry and its aftermath. The rest of this article outlines my thoughts on the matter.

I am pleased the scope of the Commission’s work is even more comprehensive than the Semple inquiry. Both exercises cover all housing tenures. Semple adopted a broad interpretation of ‘affordability’ but the Commission’s remit is even wider. It can address any issue infl uencing the future of housing in Northern Ireland and, crucially, look beyond the medium term.

Like the Semple process, the Commission is time-limited and aided by a knowledgeable Secretary. More importantly, it commands widespread support and welcomes contributions from anyone with an interest in housing.

The outstanding achievement of John Semple’s report is that it not only presented a long list of practical recommendations but also won an unprecedented degree of support for them. The Northern Ireland Executive accepted nearly all of the recommendations and so did most of our politicians and stakeholders in the private, voluntary and public sectors.

So can we assume that Northern Ireland is

well on the way to implementing Semple’s recommendations? With regret, I conclude the answer is ‘No!’ but hope that analysis of the reasons will assist the Commission and those in power.

In the fi rst instance, we were too slow to recognise the emerging affordability crisis. The small size of this jurisdiction gives us access to highly localised socio-economic statistics that should enable us to monitor and anticipate change much more effectively.

An even greater problem is that the processes of policy formulation and implementation in Northern Ireland tend to proceed at a snail’s pace. To take just one example, Semple recommended that a system of ‘developer contributions’ on the granting of planning permission should be in place no later than 1 January 08 preferably by autumn 07. I understand, however, that the preliminary work has only just begun and the target date for introducing the policy is April 2011.

Thirdly, we should create more ‘home grown’ policies. It is eminently sensible to copy sound policies from other places but we should have the self-confi dence to devise more of our own. We have a wealth of public-spirited politicians, offi cials, thinkers and community activists who are well able to do this.

The Semple inquiry and recommendations were useful but implementation has been disappointing. To capitalise on the potential of the Best Commission, stakeholders should challenge the devolved administration to create appropriate housing policies more proactively and implement them much more quickly.

For further information contact NIFHA’s Chief Executive, Chris Williamson. T: 028 9023 0446 E: [email protected]


6 posh - Summer 09

An EU Review

Although it is not named as one of the EU’s ‘competences’ social housing makes a substantial contribution to the European Union’s objectives in terms of the economy, society and the environment. As our newly elected MEPs begin their term, we take a look at the EU…

A positive impact from EuropeThe EU’s infl uence has been wide ranging. Examples of how it has helped locally include the European Investment Bank’s loan to Clanmil Housing (see POSH Spring 09). The bank offers loans at rates lower than the current market rate of lending. Every fraction of a percentage point saved on interest rates has a direct impact on an association’s viability and on the rent charged to tenants.

Triangle HA benefi tted from the supported employment programme for Alternative Angles (see POSH Spring 09). The programme offers an opportunity to help people with learning diffi culties gain mainstream employment. Without it they may not have.

The European Parliament on 2 April 09 adopted a measure allowing regional and local authorities to spend EU structural funds on increasing the energy effi ciency and use of renewable energy in existing housing. This signifi cant step means European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) money could co-fund schemes to install, for example, double glazing, wall insulation and solar panels or to replace old boilers with more energy effi ciency ones, in all (EU-27) Member States. Previously, the ERDF only funded such schemes in the new (EU-12) Member States, and only in common parts of a building (or if social housing the entire building), in deprived urban areas.

Europe’s negativesEven though it does not mean to Europe can, sometimes, get in the way. Its complex and large population, bulky political and fi nancial structures and seemingly convoluted bureaucracy can hold up progress.

Examples include the potential for EU competition rules to impose completely inappropriate bureaucracy on social housing and the domination of EU procurement rules in the UK and Northern Ireland. Some of the procurement rules are wholly inappropriate for social housing and result in delay and additional expense being incurred because across Europe even quite small housing contracts must be advertised in the EU Journal.

Pan European NetworkingNIFHA actively contributes to and works with the European Liaison Committee for Social Housing (CECODHAS). This network of 45 regional and national federations (representing over 39,000 housing enterprises) promotes the right to decent housing for all. It has proved increasingly effective at representing the sector and infl uencing EU policy which impacts on social housing.

Embracing the FutureThe EU’s potential infl uence on social housing is immense and we need to ensure this infl uence fi ts the cause and doesn’t unnecessarily burden the system. We ask our recently elected MEPs to be vigilant and ensure overstated bureaucracy becomes a thing of the past. We also ask them to press the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Arlene Foster MLA, to ensure that the maximum 4 per cent of the structural funds for NI are allocated to energy effi ciency in housing.


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Equality Matters

Housing associations have long been aware that Equality does matter. They have a track record of developing innovative schemes which tackle disadvantage and also take a positive approach to sharing our future as these stories demonstrate.

New housing for Irish Travellers in Derry North and West Housing developed and will manage a new housing scheme for Irish Travellers at Labre Park, Derry. Travellers have been living on this site for over 30 years. However, this is the fi rst time that they will be able to enjoy a more permanent home to call their own.

The scheme is providing ten families with homes. Alongside them, the Housing Executive has refurbished the existing transit site. They have upgraded the facilities to cater for those families who continue to live a more traditional traveller lifestyle.

Gerry Kelly (Chief Executive of North and West), Margaret Boyle (Travellers Support Offi cer), Marjorie Keenan (Chairperson of North and West), Bridget Crumlish (Matriarch), Alan Shannon (Permanent Secretary at DSD), Gerard Diver (Mayor of Derry) and Evelyn Collins (Chief Executive of Equality Commission)

Broadening our shared futureLisburn’s Causeway Meadows is home to a new Shared Future housing scheme. It was launched by Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA.

At a total cost of £4.6m Clanmil Housing purchased 22 units for social housing within the 140 unit private development. Clanmil’s tenants are all committed to living together in a mixed neighbourhood and have signed up to the Shared Future charter.

The Earl family moved into one of Clanmil’s homes. Mrs Earl said: “Everyone is getting on really well. We may be different in some ways but it doesn’t matter, the children play together and everyone wants to make it work. It’s how I want my family to live and I’m sure it’s the same for the other tenants. We don’t really think about it as shaping the future, we’re just getting on with our lives in our lovely new homes.”

A tree planting ceremony in the green space at the heart of Causeway Meadows

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8 posh - Summer 09

New Schemes

Supported Living Unit for DerryTrinity Housing, in partnership with the Western Health and Social Care Trust, has invested £2.9m to build a new 18 bed Supported Living Unit at the Stradreagh Hospital site, Gransha Park, Londonderry.

The new unit has been designed specifi cally for people with a Learning Disability. Trinity will build and maintain it whilst patient care will be provided by Western Trust staff. When completed there will be two 9-bed space shared en-suite units with a bed space for staff in each unit.

Chairman of Trinity Housing, Robert Moore said: “Trinity is delighted to be working in partnership with the Trust advancing the cause of excellence in the provision of supported housing. The project has been carefully and lovingly designed to comply with all the latest standards, whilst offering a unique building which will hopefully satisfy and stimulate the residents for many decades to come. This is a cutting edge scheme embracing numerous new design concepts for people with complex needs and once again Trinity is pleased to be at the forefront of advancing excellence in housing design”.

Artist’s impression of the new unit at Stradreagh

Connswater Homes’ housing manager, Michael Cooke, with the fi rst happy tenant enjoying city centre living.

City centre living à la LisburnTrinity Terrace, Lisburn is the latest development by Connswater Homes. The scheme was an investment of £2.3m for Lisburn and consists of 15 two-bedroom apartments ideal for city centre living.

Homes for BroughshaneWork has started in Guide Street, Broughshane on four new homes by FOLD. They have been designed to meet Lifetime Homes, Secure by Design and Eco Homes ‘Very Good’ Standards. The investment of £370,000 is due for completion at the end of 2009 providing accommodation for up to fourteen people.

Sandy Wilson OBE, Chair of the Village Improvement Team, Broughshane cutting the fi rst sod


posh - Summer 09 9

Riverview Rooms for BelfastClanmil Housing has been working in partnership with the private sector and local community representatives to deliver quality waterfront homes in an area where demand for social housing is particularly high. As a result of their work the £10m riverside development, Pottinger’s Quay, will include social housing.

Scheduled for completion by September 09, the scheme will have 27 social housing units managed by Clanmil along with numerous private apartments. The Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie MLA, commented: “This is good news for the people of East Belfast and the Short Strand area. Pottingers Quay is a prime example of integrating the riverfront with local communities.”

The Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie MLA, joins Clanmil representatives at Pottingers Quay.

£8.4m investment in NewtownabbeyMinister Ritchie recently attended Oaklee HA’s opening of its new general family housing development at Longlands Avenue, Newtownabbey, in North Belfast. It is a £8.4m investment in the area representing 56 homes which were built on the site of a disused textile factory.

Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie MLA, meeting Deborah MacFarlane (tenant), Alderman Victor Robinson (Mayor of Newtownabbey) and Oaklee’s Chair, Liam Deane.

Homes for the EastSevern Court is a small scheme of 6, three-bedroom fi ve-person homes in east Belfast which was recently completed by Connswater Homes. The homes come complete with solar thermal heating panels and meet the eco-homes very good standard. Over £1m was invested in the area by the scheme’s construction.

Severn Court shortly after completion

£3.4m boost for Newtownards Trinity HA has invested approximately £1.5m in a development at William Street Newtownards. Situated within walking distance of the Town Centre, it was completed earlier in 2009 and consists of 12 three-person two-bedroom apartments for the active elderly.

Meanwhile, Trinity announced a £1.9m development for Church Street which is due for completion in 2010. The scheme will consist of 20 three-person two-bedroom apartments for the active elderly.

Trinity Housing’s William Street development


10 posh - Summer 09

Prestigious safety award for ArkArk HA is the fi rst housing association in Northern Ireland to scoop the British Safety Council’s International Safety Award. This important international award, from one of the world’s leading health and safety training, advisory and audit bodies, is only given following rigorous assessment by an independent adjudication panel.

Vincent Lavery, Director of Operations, who co-ordinated the application was delighted with Ark’s award saying: “This is an enormous achievement for us. The award demonstrates our team’s commitment to health and safety and highlights professional standards which we are unwilling to compromise.”

In addition the team at Ark has just learnt they have been re-accredited with the Investors in People award scoring 10 out of 10 in the process.

Winning Ways

Ark Housing’s Gerard Lamb and Tony Ruddy receiving the award from Nina Wrightson OBE, BSC Board of Trustees Chair, at the British Safety Council’s ceremony.

NIFHA conference meant business for award winning Alternative AnglesAlternative Angles is a social enterprise partnership between Triangle HA and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSC) helping adults with learning disabilities prepare for work.

Last year NIFHA commissioned them to create an e-conference pack/name badge for their 2008 conference. As a result of contacts made at NIFHA’s conference Alternative Angles was contracted to provide e-conference packs for the National Housing Maintenance Forum 09 Conference & Exhibition and The Housing Quality Network (HQN).

Recently, Alternative Angles Ballymena received the prestigious NHSCT Sharing Excellence Leading Quality Award for best resource or product, after supplying e-conference packs for the NHSCT Living the Values Conference. Meanwhile, Alternative Angles Coleraine has been nominated for Coleraine Borough Council Awards in the Social Enterprise category.

Kevin Duffy Progression to Employment Coordinator pictured with Carol Dodds, Jacinta Melaugh and Wilma McIlroy of NHSCT who are Triangle’s partners in Alternative Angles.


posh - Summer 09 11

Crowned for assisted livingFOLD’s Supported Housing scheme, The Brook, scooped the top award for Assisted Living at the Pinders Healthcare Design Awards. The scheme is managed by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and provides safe and secure accommodation for 61 people who have been diagnosed with dementia. The partnership with FOLD has provided a unique model of care meeting the varying needs of residents through the latest design, care practices and assistive technologies.

Pictured at the award ceremony are representatives from FOLD (l-r) Christopher Murdock, George Morris, Karen McCaughey, John McLean, Eileen Askham, and John Quinn (ASI Architects)

Change and Quality at HelmFrom 1 April 2009 BIH became known as Helm Housing – a name embodying their progressive, forward-thinking nature. In addition they recently won the NI Quality Award. It is the highest accolade in the Centre for Competitiveness recognition scheme which measures NI’s private, public and voluntary organisations against the globally recognised European Foundation for Quality Management Excellence Model.

Pictured receiving the Award from First Minister, Peter Robinson MP MLA, is Jean Fulton, Helm’s Chief Executive.

An ISO for TriangleAndy Nicholl of BSI, the National Standards Body of the UK, recently visited Triangle HA to confi rm they had achieved the International Standardisation Organisation (ISO) 9001:2000 accreditation. On receiving the certifi cate, Chris Alexander, Triangle’s Chief Executive, said, “I believe this accreditation is testament to the hard work of all our staff team, and reinforces Triangle’s continual pursuit of excellence in everything it does”.

Andy Nicholl (right) of BSI presenting Chris Alexander with Triangle’s ISO certifi cate

Housing Heroes The Housing Heroes Awards is a new scheme, aiming to shine the spotlight on the people and teams that are doing great work in the social and affordable housing sector.

Oaklee HA’s George and Sarah Walker were nominated because they have frequently gone above and beyond the call of duty. They were shortlisted from more than 300 entries to the Frontline Service Individual of the Year category.

Heroes of housing…George and Sarah Walker.


12 posh - Summer 09

Green rulesNew eco-friendly housing schemeTenants in Newtownards can look forward to moving into state of the art eco-friendly homes by summer 2010. Connswater Homes’ development of 40 two bedroom apartments at Donaghadee Road, Newtownards is being built by Sky Developments to meet Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.

Using modern methods of construction, the apartments will be built with Structured Insulated Panels keeping heat loss to a minimum. Solar photovoltaic panels will generate electricity to run lighting for communal areas. Residents will benefi t from green roof gardens for leisure and relaxation and convenient cycle parking and storage will be provided. Each of these initiatives will reduce environmental impact, lower running costs and enhance tenant’s health and well being.

Lavinia’s Spring CleanFamilies in Clanmil Housing’s Lavinia development (Ormeau Road, Belfast) recently came together to “spring clean” the area around their homes. The morning was spent lifting litter and tidying up to make sure their development continues to look its best. It wasn’t all hard work though – a BBQ lunch was enjoyed by everyone who took part.

The clean up was the fi rst in a series of events organised by Clanmil in partnership with the Lavinia Resident’s Association to encourage a sense of community and local pride.

Clanmil Housing Manager, Heather Morrice helps Sorcha Conlon and Rory Curtis clean up at Lavinia

Clean renewable future for Belfast FoyerHelm Housing recently completed re-roofi ng the Belfast Foyer which is a listed building. As part of the project they included a source of renewable energy - solar photovoltaic (PV) from Solarcentury - which is compatible with slate tiles. The careful integration with the tiles means the building’s aesthetics were not compromised. A display unit showing the electrical power being currently generated, the total electrical energy generated and total carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions saved has been placed behind the Belfast Foyer reception.

The display unit in Belfast Foyer’s reception.

Artist’s impression of the eco-friendly development for Newtownards.


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And the Oscar goes to…In Northern Ireland’s fi rst energy Oscars, Hearth HA won the ‘Most Energy Effi cient Refurbishment Scheme’ award for their eco-house in Ormeau Park. The scheme involved restoring the head gardener’s house creating Hearth’s fi rst eco house. This historic building was refurbished using sustainable materials and renewable technologies for heating.

Stop Press • Stop Press • Stop Press

Hearth’s Ormeau Park House has just been ‘highly commended’ for sustainability at the recent RICS Northern Ireland Awards for Excellence in the Built Environment.

Pictured (l-r) Terry Waugh, Action Renewables (sponsor), Siobhan Brown Hearth HA, Margaret Ritchie MLA, Minister for Social Development and Brian Rowntree, Chair NIHE.

Eco-friendly homes for the over 55sThirty-four two-bedroom apartments, boasting a range of energy-saving and green features, are being built by Oaklee HA at Shaftesbury in Bangor.

The scheme will include photovoltaic roof panels to convert sunlight into electricity, collection points for rainwater to be used in the communal garden, internal storage bins for each apartment helping tenants to recycle of three types of waste and low fl ow fi ttings on all showers, toilets and taps to reduce the use of internal water.

Pictured at the scheme’s launch (L-R) North Down Deputy Mayor, Cllr Ian Parsley; Niall Sheridan, Director of Operations Oaklee HA; Minister for Social Development Margaret Ritchie MLA and Brian McVeigh, MMM Design & Build MD.

Keep a closer eye on social housing in Northern Ireland.Become an Associate of NIFHA

Associated Benefits• Feature on NIFHA’s website• Two networking briefings per

year with senior Federation staff• Two electronic briefings per year• Discount rates for advertising,

open seminars, conference places and trade exhibition

• Copies of NIFHA’s publications• Invitations to appropriate

networking events

For further informationwww.nifha.org T: 028 9023 0446


14 posh - Summer 09

To the future…The academic year is about to fi nish so POSH took the opportunity to talk to one student, who will soon be graduating, about his experience of the housing association movement so far.

Keelan McGaghran is reading Housing Management at the University of Ulster and will complete his BSc (Hons) degree shortly. During his course Keelan will have taken modules in management studies, housing maintenance and development, legal studies as well as housing policy and strategy. As part of his degree course he undertook a placement to gain some practical experience.

When considering what he has learnt so far in his studies and placement Keelan commented on the great degree of variety that housing provides; “you get to work with and meet a vast array of different people and is it very rewarding and gratifying to know the work you are doing is helping people in need.” Keelan told us that his placement year gave him the chance to work in all areas of housing. “This has enabled me to develop a sound understanding of the operational end of housing management and has allowed me see how the theory learned at college works in practice.” he commented.

During his placement Keelan spent some time working in development which he found interesting. He told us “It can be frustrating the length of time it takes to actually get a development approved and onsite but on the other hand it is extremely rewarding when a scheme is completed and the houses are allocated to people in need.”

With regards to the future of social housing over the next ten years or so Keelan had some defi nite views on how things will look. “I feel the NIHE will split its strategic and landlord roles and form a new ALMO to which they will transfer their existing stock.” He went on to say “In terms of HA’s I feel we will see an increase in mergers and amalgamations.”

What about his own future? After graduation Keelan would like to work in development and in the future undertake either a post grad or masters in procurement or project management. He added: “I will continue to work hard and when I have developed adequate knowledge hopefully obtain a senior management position and from there with a bit of luck progress to one of the top housing jobs in NI!”

We’d like to wish Keelan every success with his career. No doubt will be featuring him again!


posh - Summer 09 15

NIHACT Makes a DifferenceGolf Action MSThe main thrust of Action MS NI’s fund-raising is sponsored walks. For safety and security reasons, most of the walks are off road. Commonly walks take place in forests where the terrain is not suitable for ambulance or other passenger vehicles. To comply with health and safety for their walkers Action MS NI requested support for purchasing a four-seater golf cart which could be adapted at the rear to carry a stretcher.

The NIHACT committee was pleased to support the application and were delighted to see it ready for action in Belvoir Park, Belfast. Ann Walker, Action MS’ Chief Executive said: “The golf cart is essential for our work we can’t do without it.”

Strandtown PS cheer on Tom O’Neill (NIHACT’s Chair) as he delivers a new buggy to Ann Walker of Action MS.

Reach out for the Third SectorNIHACT was pleased to support Council for the Homeless NI’s (CHNI) initiative reach ni.

It is a social enterprise which will provide consultancy services to the voluntary sector. reach ni will target service providers who have worked in the sector for many years but fi nd ever changing demands on their organisation a challenge.

Development Offi cer, Alison Upton, commented: “The impact of the current economic climate on funding, the new Charities Commission as well as amendments to employment law each have enormous impacts on the day to day operation of a voluntary organisation. reach ni is there to make sure every voluntary organisation in Northern Ireland has access to the best consultancy available to tackle these challenges.” The seed funding from NIHACT helped reach ni gather together the necessary resources for business start-up.

Larne Community CentreMore short-term accommodation for families in need is now available at Larne Community Centre through its 'Crisis Accommodation' outreach service.

NIHACT was delighted to help fund the furnishing for two apartments which have been refurbished by the Community Group.

Pictured are Ricky Rowledge and Margaret Henry of CHNI receiving a cheque from Derek Rankin (NIHACT Committee Member) to help with the establishment of reach ni

Tom O'Neill, NIHACT's Chair, with Lucinda McFaul, Larne Community Centre's Development Manager, at the offi cial opening of the new apartments.


Community CountsWatching OutSix FOLD schemes for older people have joined Neighbourhood Watch. Apart from increasing awareness of crime prevention among residents membership of the Neighbourhood Watch schemes means PSNI offi cers within each area will provide crime prevention advice to residents.

Neighbourhood Watch schemes play a vital role in making areas safer, more friendly and pleasanter places to live. The PSNI, NIO and the Policing Board all express their delight that FOLD has become involved with Neighbourhood Watch. No doubt FOLD’s tenants will feel the benefi t of this simple but effective scheme.

Pictured with the Northern Ireland Minister, Paul Goggins MP, and Assistant Chief Constable, Duncan McCausland, is FOLD tenant Mrs Peel.

16 posh - Summer 09

A healthy initiativeA variety of organisations were invited to participate in a Health and Wellbeing Day at Ark Housing’s Roseville House.

Highway to Health provided advice on how to balance good health with daily living, Chest Heart and Stroke NI presented information on the benefi ts of regular exercise, lowering alcohol consumption and eating a low cholesterol diet. A volunteer health visitor provided blood pressure checks; there was advice on how to feed a baby, reducing the risk of cot death and healthy eating for children aged 1 to 5.

The Chinese Welfare Association, Diabetes UK, FASA, Sure Start and the Stroke Association, also came along to give free advice and information. There were complimentary sessions of aromatherapy, colour therapy, massage and refl exology as well as the chance to taste the cuisine of China, India, Ireland, Eastern Europe and Greece.

Tammy Brown, Highway to Health with Danielle Casey, Ark Housing.


A MUST projectAs part of its support to residents MUST Hostel, which works closely with Open Door HA, has committed to a Romanian Aid Project. At the end of the summer residents, staff and board members will spend two weeks renovating a building which will provide shelter and basic accommodation for people living on the streets in Cluij, Romania.

Before leaving for Romania each member of the party will have completed many team building sessions and undertaken a variety of fund raising events. During the trip participants will undertake a three day expedition in the local countryside aimed at improving their own well being. For those under 25 years it will earn them a Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award and for those over 25 an ENDEAVOUR Silver Award.

Charting new territoryNorth and West Housing’s Oakland Park development saw a ‘run down’, dilapidated wilderness transformed into a modern well designed neighbourhood. It now has 39 homes, a children’s play park, a community building with training, meeting and changing facilities and a high quality grass playing surface.

To help encourage community spirit and sustainability North and West, in partnership with Triax Neighbourhood Management Team and the residents of Oakland Park, developed a Neighbourhood Charter.

North and West and Oakland Park tenants have signed up to the principle that tenants, their families and visitors should ensure a safe and welcoming neighbourhood by showing respect and tolerance to neighbours and by promoting good neighbourliness.

Silver Surfi ngHarmony Court is one of 15 Clanmil sheltered housing schemes throughout Northern Ireland to receive new computers and printers for use exclusively by tenants. This is all thanks to a grant of £10,000 from the Big Lottery Fund’s Awards for All scheme.

On Silver Surfer’s Day 09 Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA joined tenants in Harmony Court to surf the net. One tenant, Mr John Stone was keen to get his hands on the new equipment saying; “Now it will be easier to keep in touch with my daughter and grandchildren in England by e-mail so I’ll be able to stay up-to-date with all the family news. We’re getting lessons on how to use the new equipment but some of us already have a bit of IT experience so we’re helping each other get to grips with the new technology. We’ll all be experts soon!”

Residents, staff and board members who will be going to Romania.

At the Neightbourhood Charter launch (l-r) Cllr Kevin Campbell, Traix; Sheena Mc Callion, Director of Housing and Care Services, North & West; Cllr Jim Clifford; Mary Kelly, North & West Board Member and Chair of the Tenants’ Forum, Jacqueline Coyle, with her son Stephen.

Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ricthie joins Billy Whitcroft, a tenant at Harmony Court, to celebrate Silver Surfers Day 2009.

posh - Summer 09 17


FAQ: A matter of reserveWhy do Housing Associations have reserves? When a housing association generates more income than it spends a reserve is created. In some quarters this has led to questions regarding the level of reserves. Some believe they are a ‘nest egg’ which is available for associations to spend. This is not the case.

Distinguishing between Reserves and Cash.'Reserves' should not be confused with 'Cash'. Reserves on a housing association’s balance sheet come from past surpluses. Since their creation these reserves may have been used to fund the purchase of property. Consequently, the reserves will not be held as cash and will not be easily available to fund on-going activities.

Why are reserves necessary?Securing the future viability of the association is essential. This can most effectively be done by setting aside some current income as a ‘reserve’ against future uncertainty. Therefore, the association can provide reliable services and funding over the longer term. They will be able to absorb setbacks and take advantage of change and opportunity.

The level of reserve an association needs to hold can only be determined by a realistic assessment of each organisation’s own reserves needs. This assessment considers the future fi nancial obligations faced by the association.

What fi nancial obligations does an association have?Housing associations have a range of fi nancial obligations in the running of the organisation on a day-to-day basis. It also has to prepare for and fund future obligations. These include:

1. Major RepairsAs stock ages the volume of repair work generally increases. An element of each year’s surplus needs to be set aside to meet this expenditure. Under the Accounting Code of Practice the amount set aside for major repairs must be separately identifi ed in a designated fund. The remaining fi nancial obligations (detailed below) need to be met from the association’s 'general reserves'.

2. Working CapitalThis is the amount of funds needed to pay debts as they become due and to fi nance stocks and debtors. An element of the reserves needs to be held to ensure an appropriate cash position to meet on-going operational requirements.

3. Repayment of LoansPart of the surplus made each year represents monies required to repay loans and, according to the latest accounts, Northern Ireland associations now have over £150 million of loans outstanding. While it may be possible to extend the obligation to repay loans over a longer time frame, at some point loan capital will have to be repaid from reserves. Indeed, lenders as a matter of course impose loan covenants upon housing associations which require them to achieve a certain level of surplus. This is intended to provide comfort to lenders that associations will not default on loans.

4. Future RisksThe past is an unreliable guide to the future. Many fi nancial and economic factors are outside the control of a housing association. Surpluses may therefore contain short term benefi ts which may not continue in future years. Judgements have to be made about the likely extent of future adverse circumstances. It is better to generate a reasonable level of surplus each year rather than to seek a large rent increase if risks were to crystallise. This is becoming an even more critical area in a period of constant change in political, economical and environmental terms.

5. Re-investment in the OrganisationConsideration also needs to be given to the need for funds to expand the association’s activities or exploit new areas of opportunity. In the past, this has also included the fi nancing of property assets not covered by grant or loan as well as associations’ investment in offi ce premises.

18 posh - Summer 09


posh - Summer 09 19

NIFHA’s Housing Association MembersHousing Association Contact No Email Address Website

Abbeyfi eld UK (NI) 028 9036 5081 admin@abbeyfi eldni.org www.abbeyfi eldni.org

Alpha 028 9050 7755 [email protected] www.alphahousingni.org

Ark Housing 028 9075 2310 [email protected] www.arkhousing.co.uk

Ballynafeigh 028 9049 1569 [email protected] n/a

Belfast Community 028 9046 3686 offi [email protected] www.bc-ha.org

Broadway 028 9074 2984 [email protected] n/a

Clanmil Housing 028 9087 6000 [email protected] www.clanmil.org

Connswater Homes 028 9065 6155 [email protected] www.connswater.org.uk

Covenanter 028 9073 9868 [email protected] n/a

Co-Ownership Housing 028 9032 7276 [email protected] www.co-ownership.org

Craigowen 028 9076 8029 offi [email protected] www.glencraig.org.uk

Dungannon & District 028 8772 2121 [email protected] www.ddha.net

Filor 028 9035 1131 fi [email protected] n/a

Flax 028 9059 2110 admin@fl axhousing.com www.fl axhousing.com

FOLD 028 9042 8314 n/a www.foldgroup.co.uk

Gosford 028 3751 8522 [email protected] www.gosfordhousing.co.uk

Grove 028 9077 3330 [email protected] www.groveha.org.uk

Habinteg (Ulster) 028 9042 7211 [email protected] www.habinteg-ulster.co.uk

Hearth 028 9053 0121 [email protected] www.hearth-housing.org.uk

Helm Housing (formerly BIH) 028 9032 0485 offi [email protected] www.helmhousing.org

Newington 028 9074 4055 [email protected] n/a

North & West 028 7126 3819 [email protected] www.northandwest.org

Oaklee 028 9044 1300 [email protected] www.oaklee.org.uk

Open Door 028 9024 3785 [email protected] n/a

Rural 028 8224 6118 [email protected] www.ruralhousing.co.uk

SHAC 028 9024 6811 [email protected] www.shac.org.uk

South Ulster 028 3833 9795 [email protected] www.suha.co.uk

St Matthew’s 028 9045 1070 offi [email protected] n/a

Triangle 028 2766 6880 [email protected] www.trianglehousing.org.uk

Trinity Housing 028 9069 0250 [email protected] www.trinityha.org

Ulidia 028 9038 2288 [email protected] www.ulidiahousing.org

Wesley 028 9336 3558 [email protected] www.wha-ni.org

Woodvale & Shankill 028 9074 1618 [email protected] n/a

Non-registered*

Bangor Provident Trust 028 9024 6602 [email protected] n/a

Glenall Housing Co-operative 028 9031 1156 n/a n/a

Habitat for Humanity NI 028 9024 3686 [email protected] www.habitatni.co.uk

Intercomm Enterprises 028 9074 8355 [email protected] www.intercommireland.org

The Abbeyfi eld Belfast Society 028 9038 1332 afi [email protected] n/a

Threshold 028 9087 1313 [email protected] www.thresholdservices.com

Ulster Provident 028 9031 1156 n/a n/a

*These are members who provide housing but are not registered housing associations with DSD and therefore do not receive DSD funding

For full details of the accommodation and services offered by NIFHA’s members, please log onto www.nifha.org and search the Housing Association Database


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10_POSH Issue 12_Summer 09

Documents

posh mag

posh summer

environment posh

posh readers

nifha cares

nifha governance

meeting participants

glorious fi