New family Homes for Kilkenny - Oaklee Housing
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Winter 2017
The newsletter for
Oaklee Housing
New family Homes
for Kilkenny
Winter Weather Fire Safety Community Out and
Advice at Home Grants About!
Page 12 Page 14 Page 16 Page 17
Sharing Our Success Page 03
Delivering New Homes Page 05
Managing Debt Page 06
New Homes for Kilkenny Page 08
oaklee.ie Colouring Competition Page 20
01 400 2650
A message
from our Chief
Working
SHARING
OUR
together
Executive Officer
for positive
change.
ABBEY
Sharon Cosgrove
SUCCESS
VILLAGE
Welcome to the Winter 2017 If you would like to help peaceful festive season.
edition of Oaklee News. shape the future of Oaklee
and our services then please Oaklee were delighted that Abbey Village was homes. By creating tenancies for people with
get involved. You can find out shortlisted at the recent Irish Council for Social intellectual disabilities and re-designating former
As CEO it is my responsibility Housing’s annual awards, in the Collaboration & sheltered living homes, Oaklee and partners created
to ensure that all our homes more about tenant involvement
Partnership Initiative for Delivery category. an innovative solution to an otherwise significant
through the Tenant Forum
are of a high standard, well
maintained and that our section of our website and We welcome Abbey Village is nestled in Kilmacrenan, County
void problem.
services are responsive to
your needs. Oaklee strives for
throughout this edition.
your input Donegal and provides housing options for a wide The awards were held in September and opened
client base, from family housing and sheltered by the Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy at the
excellence and continuous The lead up to Christmas, is an living accommodation to supported homes for those Strand Hotel, Limerick. Although unsuccessful
This is the Oaklee Housing
improvement is something we expensive time for everyone, with disabilities. Originally planned primarily as on the night, it was a fantastic opportunity to
newsletter, Oaklee News, which
give great attention to. so we have a few articles a scheme for families and sheltered living, Abbey showcase our work and in particular the positive
we will be sending you twice a
which give information, advice Village is now a cohesive community for all. partnerships with Donegal HSE and Donegal County
year. We hope to provide you
Getting our tenants involved in and helpful tips, we hope with a range of interesting and Council. Abbey Village sets an excellent example of
our decision making process is you will find useful. We have enjoyable articles that provide As the scheme was in development Oaklee inclusive housing for all and demonstrates how each
vital to improving our services information on the new Credit important information, reports recognised the low demand for the sheltered living individual is an integral part of any community.
and tenant feedback is used Union initiative, on managing on staff and residents, offer
by our staff to understand debt with the help of MABS, as hints and tips about lifestyle
and respond to your needs. In well as advice and information and include the occasional
Oaklee we offer a number of on how to save energy and competition and quiz.
opportunities for tenants to money.
engage and we call this our Please let us know what you
‘Menu of Involvement’, which Finally, you will see that we think of this initiative and how
includes estate walkabouts, have opened a number of new you feel your newsletter can be
editorial team and the Tenants’ developments in Kilkenny, improved further. We welcome
Forum. Our Housing team works Carrick on Suir and elsewhere letters, recipes, photos or other
closely with tenants in our around the country. We also contributions from you to make
have a number of developments these publications feel closer
housing schemes around the
under construction with a to you.
country so that we can assist
you with local events and significant number to be
completed in 2018. GET IN TOUCH
encourage you to get involved.
You can read more on pages Oaklee Housing,
16 about setting up residents 132 James’s Street,
groups and availing of our Wishing you all the very Dublin
community grants scheme. best for a happy and DO8 PK25
T: 01 400 2650
E: enquiries@oakleehousing.ie
www.oaklee.ie
Abbey Village in Kilmacrenan
Page 2 oaklee.ie Page 3 oaklee.ie
Since the last edition
of our newsletter
a number of
How we’re performing Delivering New Homes
developments have
been handed over and
tenants have been
able to move into their
Oaklee Housing are at the forefront in the provision of social housing and Our Development Team are working on new housing
new homes.
schemes to deliver much-needed homes across Ireland.
are committed to delivering quality housing and excellent customer
services that enhance the lives of customers and communities.
Family Homes Cluainin, Mountrath, Much Needed Homes
It is important that your voice, in relation to our services, is heard as the It is important
feedback that we receive is vital for Oaklee Housing to identify and correct that your voice, in Co. Kilkenny Almost Complete Coming to Ballymun,
any problems within our service delivery and to ensure that we meet the in relation to our Located on the outskirts of the Due for completion in January 2018, Dublin 9
needs of all our customers. services, is heard. Castlecomer village of Kilkenny, this development will bring 21 new Oaklee are proud to provide 42
the Moneenroe development sits homes to the small town much needed homes in Ballymun,
Customer Enquiries on the Castlecomer-Athy road. of Mountrath, County Laois. Dublin. This general-needs
This development consists of nine development is a mixture of
This development holds 21
bungalows consisting of 2 and 3 apartments and houses.
Target Target Target dwellings in total, consisting of
bed dwellings, providing general
85% 85% 14 two and three-bed houses. These This development is on track for
needs support. Additionally,
dwellings are a mix of semi-
77.8% 89.2% 8 these properties have been
designed to allow for disabled
detached, end-of-terrace and
completion in March 2018, while
allocations’ for occupancy is
terraced properties. Additionally, scheduled for April 2018.
access, in order to meet the needs
parking facilities will be available
of all prospective tenants.
to prospective tenants.
This project is due for completion New Homes
This development is approaching
of enquiries resolved at of customers satisfaction average working days at the end of November, just in
its final stages meaning the tenants on Poplar Row
first point of contact rating of Oaklee Housing to respond to stage 1 time for the Christmas season.
will have a happy new year in their Poplar Row is a sheltered
Services Centre complaints happy new homes in 2018. accommodation project,
aimed to meet the general
Customer Services Gas Safety Human Resources The Galleries The needs of over 55’s. Located in
Galleries, Ballybough, this development
Donabate Dublin Dublin
has easy access to Connolly
Target Target Located in North Dublin, station and Dublin’s city centre
95% 100% The Galleries, Donabate is an via a range of bus transport
94% idyllic apartment complex
situated close to many local
links.
This development will provide
amenities in the Donabate Village.
92% 0.69% This site involves the development
29 new homes and is scheduled
for completion March 2019, and
of gas boilers were overall sickness
of 43 spacious apartments, ranging Oaklee Housing has an exciting
Call Advisor Call Quality serviced within a year absence in the year from one to three bed dwellings. Fully furnished homes road ahead in the delivery of
This development is progressing ready in time for this much-needed development.
Repairs smoothly, and is on schedule for Christmas
completion July 2018. The Station Court development in Due
March
Target Target Gorey, Co. Wexford, comprises of 14 2019
Target
92% 92% homes and range from 1 to 3 bed
93%
apartments. On-site surface and
underground car parking is provided
and the properties will be leased
90% 90% 96% furnished to tenants.
Emergency repairs Urgent repairs Routine repairs A number of tenants have moved
completed within completed within completed within Due into their new homes and it is
24 Hours 4 working days 20 working days July planned that Station Court will be
2018 fully occupied for the Christmas
The performance figures are for the period April 2017 - September 2017 season.
Page 4 oaklee.ie Page 5 oaklee.ie
Support for Managing Debt
& Budgeting your Finances
We all know people can get into money difficulty all too easily – from falling behind
with your rent or getting into difficulty with paying loans back. Money difficulties can
affect everyone, from people on low incomes to high-income earners. It can have an impact
on people’s mental health and overall wellbeing.
Money difficulties can arise for various reasons, such as illness, unemployment, relationship breakdown,
a drop in income, or increased expenditure due to lifestyle spending.
Dealing with Mortgage and rent arrears is particularly important because you could lose your home if you
do not keep up your payments.
Accessing Advice confidential. With more than sixty
offices all around the country, MABS
How to use MAB services The Money Advice Process
There are three ways of getting
and Support are available in every county. They support from MABS
also have a website – www.mabs.ie Following your first appointment, the MABS Adviser will
Sometimes we need advice and
support to sort our financial
and their Helpline can be contacted
Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm - T:
1. MABS Website Contact Oaklee develop a plan to work with you. The adviser will try to
www.mabs.ie achieve two things through the money advice process:
problems out - sharing your 0761 07 2000. You’ll find easy to use advice Housing if you are
concerns can help – it may be the
kick-start you need to sort out
and tips on this site, with lots finding it difficult • Firstly, to support you in finding a sustainable solution
How can MABS assist?
your money problems and get MABS works with people who may
of resources to help you to help
yourself. The website offers lots of
to pay your rent. to your problem debt
back on an even keel. be struggling with debt or who need tools for managing your money.
In relation to managing rent help in managing their money. They 01 400 2650 • Secondly, help you develop your skill and knowledge so you
arrears, Oaklee Housing staff are also talk to government and lenders 2. The MABS Helpline
available to provide assistance to find better solutions for those The MABS Helpline is open Monday
can have better control over your money
and support and agree a realistic who have money problems, as well to Friday, 9am to 8pm, and can be
payment agreement to help you as developing tools and resources
clear arrears if you fall behind.
reached on 0761 07 2000. Helpline The Money Adviser will work with you to prepare a budget and a
to help people avoid getting in over Advisers will ask some initial If you are experiencing
Please always contact Oaklee financial statement; this will form the basis of any negotiation
their heads. questions to work out the nature
Housing if you are finding it
of your problem, and determine
financial difficulties, or if undertaken with any creditor.
difficult to pay your rent. MABS does not give out any money you have fallen behind with
how best to assist you. You might
– instead, they; work with clients use this service because you have your rent or other payments, Once a negotiation has been completed, the Money Adviser will
When you require additional to ensure that they are getting all received a letter or a call from a assist you in setting up a payment system to keep to that new
assistance in relation to financial income they are entitled to, that creditor, or maybe you’ve missed
then get in touch with Oaklee
difficulties, we will refer you to they are getting the best value out a payment and are unsure what to Housing staff agreement. You will be supported for as long as you need, post-
the Money Advice and Budgeting of this income, and in working out agreement, and MABS will continue to provide assistance as
Service (MABS).
do next. In some cases, the Adviser Tel: 01 400 2650,
sustainable payment plans with may believe that you would benefit your circumstances change.
creditors, where debt becomes a from meeting face -to-face with one
alternatively you can
What is MABS? problem. of the advisors in the MABS offices. get independent advice
The Money Advice and Budgeting
Service (MABS), is a free money and from MABS
3. MABS Local Offices
debt advice service. MABS work
MABS Local Offices operates a
Tel: 0761 07 2000,
with all kinds of people, who may www.mabs.ie
network of 65 offices all around
have all kinds of personal debt.
the country. Each office is staffed
The service is independent, with no
by a team of Money Advisers and
links to any banks or credit unions,
Administrators, all trained and
and all dealings with MABS are
highly skilled in their work.
Page 6 Page 7 oaklee.ie
New Homes for Kilkenny
The nine new bungalows at Moneenroe, near authorities, government agencies and developers to
Castlecomer, are due for completion during the winter accelerate the delivery of social and affordable homes
2017 and include a mix of two and three-bedroom units. for a range of needs. We believe a collaborative approach
Meanwhile at Logan Street, Thomastown, we acquired a can enable us to provide an effective response to the
scheme that was abandoned during the downturn and Rebuilding Ireland agenda.
Minister of State at the Department of Housing, and Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS); and will now provide 21 new homes comprising of a mix of
Planning and Local Government with responsibility the Housing Finance Agency. one, two and three-bedrooms apartments. “These are two exciting developments that will provide
for Local Government and Electoral Reform, John Paul 30 much-needed new homes that can support a range
Phelan T.D. visited County Kilkenny to view progress Minister Phelan noted: Sharon Cosgrove, our Chief Executive said: of tenures in Kilkenny. We look forward to welcoming
at two social housing projects being developed by the tenants and officially opening the schemes later
“The housing crisis is one of the key challenges “There are many demands for housing in today’s society
Oaklee Housing. this year. We are grateful for the support from Kilkenny
facing the state and, in responding to that challenge, and it is important that we get more homes underway.
it is encouraging to witness part of the significant County Council, the Department of Housing and the
We are working in close partnership with a range of local
The schemes will provide 30 new homes, investment programme being provided under Housing Finance Agency.”
9 bungalows in Moneenroe and 21 apartments Rebuilding Ireland coming to fruition here in County
in Thomastown to be allocated to households Kilkenny. These 30 new homes are an example of the Mary Mulholland, Acting Chief Executive of Kilkenny
on the Kilkenny County Council housing list. The successful joint working between Kilkenny County County Council said she wished to ‘thank Oaklee for
homes are designed to meet a range of tenancy Council and Oaklee at a local level, with Oaklee their perseverance in delivering these 21 apartments on
needs including those of families, older people harnessing the financial supports available to it from a site that was once a derelict unfinished estate in the
and individuals with limited mobility. my Department. If we are to realise the full ambition heart of Thomastown and wished the tenants all the
of Rebuilding Ireland, we must continue to develop the best in their new homes.’
As an Approved Housing Body (AHB), Oaklee strong pipeline of social housing projects around the
has secured funding for the schemes through country, many of which use new and innovative ways
a combination of finance from the Department of delivering social housing, and harness the capacity
of Housing, Planning and Local Government’s of the approved housing bodies to deliver high quality
Capital Advance Leasing Facility (CALF) houses and supported, sustainable homes for tenants.”
Page 8 oaklee.ie Page 9
Oaklee Housing Tenants’ Forum
Oaklee Housing Tenants’ Forum held their AGM on 18th October when IF YOU WOULD LIKE
TO GET INVOLVED
the election of both Chair and Vice Chair of The Tenants’ Forum took
place. Bill Cusack was duly elected for the position of Chair and Anton
Mahon for Vice Chair, both tenants reside at Hawthorn Court in
Celbridge and will serve in these positions for 3 years.
The Tenants’ Forum have a number of objectives but their main goal is to
WITH OAKLEE
encourage more tenants to get involved and have their voice heard. If you would like to talk to someone about getting started please contact
Oaklee on 01 400 2650. Or complete the Menu of Involvement in this
Bill Cusack accepted his position with enthusiasm and looks forward to developing the Forum; further
Bill said “over the past year Oaklee Tenants’ Forum has become a more proactive group, with the help of staff, we newsletter and send to Oaklee at 132 James’s Street, Dublin, D08 Pk25
have been involved in Estate Walkabouts and The Tenant Satisfaction Survey and we want to build on that. We want
to visit different localities in 2017 with the staff, promote Tenant Involvement and highlight how by getting involved
tenants really do make a difference.”
Menu of Tenant Involvement
Bill expressed his thanks and appreciation to Anne Jordan the outgoing Acting Chair for her contribution.
The group were indeed very grateful for Anne’s work over the past number of years. Bill, by virtue of his Resident Groups – Represent your community Policy Consultation Group – Assist with
position as Chair of The Tenants’ Forum, also sits on the Board of Oaklee Housing. The Tenants’ Forum on a wide range of issues by being part of a the development and review of policies
meet four times throughout the year at our offices in James’s Street, Dublin. Resident Group in your area. and procedures as and when required.
[Meets as and when required – 2.5 hours per meeting] [We anticipate approximately 2 meetings per year –
2 hours per meeting]
Tenant Champion – Where no formal Tenant
MENU OF TENANT INVOLVEMENT – Association exists become a Tenant Champion to Mystery Shoppers – Test services and provide
Together we will achieve more represent your local community, working beside feedback as a mystery shopper by carrying out
a series of pre-agreed tasks, such as telephone
Oaklee housing staff to address any issues in
your area. calls or reception visits, and report on findings.
Get involved? [1 hour per week] Training will be provided.
Being involved with Oaklee will [Meets quarterly over set days]
Tenants’ Forum Group – We currently have one
give you the chance to: Forum which meets to discuss housing related Tenant Satisfaction Survey – Assist with the
issues and sharing best practice ideas. development of a Tenant Satisfaction Survey to
Oaklee would be delighted to hear from you
[Meets every 10 weeks – 2.5 hours per meeting] help us identify our strengths and weaknesses.
1 2 3 4 Get involved with Oaklee Housing and help make a difference
to your Housing Association. Oaklee actively supports Tenant Inspectors – Carry out an inspection of
[Meets with staff and Consultant as required before and after the
survey issue.]
tenants getting involved and we are keen to hear your views. our services alongside housing staff to identify
Make Give Oaklee Be part of areas for improvement. Training is provided and Register of Tenants – Respond to surveys or
Be active
your area your views a group to Opposite is the Oaklee Menu of Involvement which provides expenses paid. comment on specific service areas which you are
in shaping
a better on the review and a wide range of options for you to participate in. You can [Meets quarterly – Additional project work every 6 months] interested in. We can contact you by text, post,
Oaklee’s
place to services improve get involved in a level that suits you. It really depends on email or telephone call.
services Editorial Team – Write and review articles for our
live in you receive services your interests and how much time you have to spare. The [As and when required – time commitment can be
Tenant Newsletter and website and report on the as little as 20 minutes]
aim of your involvement is to improve the housing and
work of the Tenants’ Forum.
maintenance services to you and other Oaklee tenants. [Meets quarterly – 2 hours per meeting] Tenant Translator Team – Offer your services
to other tenants in explaining documents
We understand you lead busy lives but there are plenty Estate Walkabouts – Walk around your estate or correspondence to help ensure they are
of options to choose from. With so many options we’re with your Housing and Property Services Officer to understood.
sure there is something of interest for all! identify areas of concern and agree priorities for [As and when required.]
5 6 7 8 the local community.
[Meets annually – 2 hours per meeting]
Consider becoming a Tenant Forum member so you can
vote, attend meetings and have your say. Or why not set
Help Oaklee
better Gain Receive Meet
up a residents group in your area or become a Community Your Details
Champion and be the eyes and ears, working together
understand useful relevant new
the needs skills training people
with Oaklee. Name Telephone
of tenants
You may want to be involved in the comfort of your home Address Please detach this page by cutting down the spine
and just twice a year receive a survey by post or email and and then posting it to the following address:
you provide comment on the services you receive. It’s up to Oaklee Housing, 132 James’s Street,
you but we’d love to have more Oaklee tenants involved. FREEPOST, Dublin, D08 Pk25
Page 10 oaklee.ie Page 11 oaklee.ie
Protecting your home If the ceiling has started to bulge
or water is leaking through a
pipe internally and allow it to drain
into a basin. The basin will need to
property, regardless of the cause,
is not insured by Oaklee.
from cold weather
ceiling, you could punch a small be emptied regularly and the pipe
hole in the ceiling with a screwdriver. reconnected when the weather Help your neighbour
Use a bucket or basin to collect improves. During extreme weather conditions
dripping water. please check on your neighbours if
Protecting your home from extreme • Allow hot air from the main house also be used. Please be careful not
Frozen Gas Regulators they are elderly, have a disability
cold weather is vital during the into the loft, this may mean opening to warm the pipes too quickly as this
To report burst pipes please There may be a small amount of or are housebound as it can be a
winter months. This information a trap door during extreme cold may lead to the pipe bursting. It is
contact the Oaklee Services Centre water vapour in the gas regulator difficult time for them to get out
will help you prepare and assist periods. important that you thaw along the
on 01 400 2650. which if it freezes will cause the and about. A friendly visit from a
you if you experience any problems pipe starting from the end nearest
gas supply to your boiler to fail.
• Open the cupboard under the sink to neighbour will be appreciated.
during the cold weather. the tap.
ensure warm air can circulate round Common faults with gas heating You should cover your meter with
Further advice is available from
the piping. a towel or old clothing to provide
It is important to recognise that What to do if a pipe bursts Frozen condensate pipes
some insulation. Place a hot water
your gas supplier and water service,
when there is extreme weather and • Ensure that all doors throughout the Modern boilers produce significant which may include helpful hints
• Turn off the stopcock by turning it bottle on the regulator (grey metal
subsequent high call volume we will house are slightly open for warm air volumes of condensate (water) which and video tutorials.
clockwise fitting on the top left hand side of
prioritise repairs such as complete to flow around the house. normally discharges into a gulley. In
the meter) and remove once it has
heating failure where there are young • Try to block the escaping water with very cold weather this condensate How can I find out more?
thawed any ice. Dry the regulator
children, elderly or people with How to deal with frozen pipes thick cloths such as towels to stop may freeze particularly where it For further information
immediately.
medical or mobility problems. Due the leak spreading. discharges to an external gulley. To please contact Oaklee at:
• Turn the water supply off at the
to call volume, access difficulties or prevent this you can place a hot Oaklee Housing
stopcock. The stopcock is a valve for • Turn off your central heating, Home Contents Insurance
where other agencies are responsible, water bottle on the pipe close to 132 James’s Street,
turning off and on the cold water immersion heater and any other Please be aware that it is your
repairs may not be completed within where it discharges (this advice Dublin, D08 PK25
system in your home. Stopcocks water heating systems. If the responsibility to insure your home
the designated time frames. Once you also applies to some oil boilers). In Telephone: 01 400 2650
are usually found in your kitchen central heating uses solid fuel, contents. Oaklee insures the
have reported your repair, try to avoid exceptional circumstances we may
below the sink unit. However, in let this die out. buildings only. Any damage to your Email: enquiries@oakleehousing.ie
repeat calls to our Services Centre. need to disconnect the condensate
some houses the stopcock is found
Our contractors will deal with repairs • Once you have shutdown your
in a front or back hall. Please ensure
issued in order of priority. water heating, turn on all your taps
that you know where the stopcock
to drain the system. Flushing your
is located. You can shut off the
We appreciate that this may be a
difficult time for tenants and your co-
supply by turning the stopcock in
a clockwise direction. To turn the
toilet several times may help.
• If water leaks near anything
Don’t tip your oil tank!
operation is very much appreciated. supply back on, turn the stopcock in electrical switch off the mains
an anti-clockwise direction. electricity immediately. If the mains Oaklee are aware of increased incidences of
Prevent your pipes switch is wet, don’t touch it as you tenants wedging or tipping oil tanks before
from freezing • To thaw frozen pipes put hotwater risk electrocution. arranging a refill.
The following tips will help stop the bottles or a thick cloth soaked in • If water has been leaking for
hot water over the frozen pipe. A Whilst we appreciate that many of our tenants
pipes in your home from freezing: sometime and ceilings are bulging,
hairdryer at its lowest setting can suffer from fuel poverty, it is extremely important
• Turn your heating on for short the room may not be safe to enter. that you do not tip your tank to increase the oil flow
periods throughout the day and as this often results in damaged oil lines, oil leaks,
night. environmental contamination, damage to oil burners
and makes the tank unstable and dangerous. Oil
• Leave the heating on at a low level
when you are away from home. This
USEFUL TIPS FOR REFILLING tanks are designed to retain a small amount of oil
can be done by lowering the main YOUR OIL TANK... at the bottom of the tank. This is intended to act as
a reservoir for sediment and moisture, which may
heating control thermostat and
• Never tip your tank damage the oil burner if used. Where damage is
turning thermostatic radiator valves
caused by tenant misuse, we will recharge all costs
down but not off. Consider leaving a • Always refit and secure the lid and your tenancy is at risk.
key with a family member, friend or
neighbour who can check your home • Avoid running out of oil and check
oil levels regularly For further information on oil buying clubs please
regularly.
visit our website www.oaklee.ie
• Don’t leave taps dripping or • Avoid refilling with small drums as
running as the water in waste these are expensive and increase
If you require any further information and advice
pipes can freeze. the likelihood of contamination
on refilling your oil tank please contact Oaklee on
• Consider joining an oil buying club 01 400 2650
in your area to help budgeting for oil.
Page 12 oaklee.ie Page 13 oaklee.ie
Fire Safety at Home A
ST E Y
Following the tragic fire at the Grenfell Tower Block in London, we would like
to offer both assurance and fire safety advice to all tenants. Your safety and the
safety of your home is our main priority.
S A F
Whilst Oak is committed to ensuring our homes are managed to the highest standards,
fire safety is a shared responsibility. We have set out some useful fire safety advice below:
Fire may cause serious injuries and extensive damage to property and possessions. By following
a few simple steps and maintaining a basic level of awareness you can considerably reduce
the chances of fire in your home.
Your home is already equipped with smoke alarms which you should test weekly. Never remove your
batteries, disconnect or cover your smoke alarm. Where alarms are connected to a communal building
fire alarm system they will be tested by Oaklee staff and contractors.
• Use the heating system • Take extra care if cooking with • Regularly clean the filters in • Walls, ceilings and doors will unwanted furniture etc in the flat is not in danger. This is
provided. Do not use additional hot oil and never throw water tumble dryers and kitchen hold back flames and smoke, communal areas. If you come particularly important if you
heaters that have flames onto or try to move very hot or extractor hoods. so if there’s a fire somewhere across materials that have been have difficulty moving around
(gas and paraffin) or electric burning oil. Consider buying else in the building, you’re left, they may present a risk or using the stairs. Tell your
• Keep matches and lighters
bar heaters. a deep-fat fryer which is usually safest staying in your to you and your family. Please Housing Officer or let the Fire
where children can’t see or
controlled by a thermostat (if flat unless you’re affected by contact us immediately. Service know that you would
• Do not store things in gas or reach them.
you don’t already have one). heat or smoke. be unable to evacuate if there
electric meter cupboards.
• Take special care when you’re • It is important to understand was a fire in your building.
• Never leave lit candles in • If you live in a flat you should
• Always treat an alarm as a tired or have taken alcohol. the fire safety measures
unoccupied rooms or in plan how to escape if there • The consequences of a fire
real fire – it might be someone built into the common areas;
rooms where children are • Don’t overload electrical is a fire in your home or your can be devastating, even if it
burning toast, but it might not. contact Oaklee if you want
on their own. sockets. Remember, one plug block. It is likely that a flat doesn’t result in the loss of
•
Make a fire action plan so that for one socket. us to explain the safety plans
will share common areas with life or injury. While Oaklee
• Make sure candles are in for the premises and make
everyone in your home knows • Don’t leave the TV or other other flats, such as corridors will repair or replace damaged
secure holders on a surface sure that you are familiar with
how to get out if there electrical appliances on and stairways. The owner fixtures and fittings, we will
that doesn’t burn and are what you should do if a fire
is a fire. standby. Always switch them of the building will have the not replace your personal
away from any materials happens.
• Keep the exits from your off and unplug them when responsibility of making sure items.
that could burn.
home clear so that you can not in use. that the necessary fire safety • You should not use a lift if a
• You are therefore strongly
• Make sure cigarettes are measures needed in these fire happens
escape if there is a fire. • If you or a member of your advised to take out home
stubbed out properly and are areas are installed.
• Make sure that everyone in household has any difficulty • If you cannot escape because contents insurance to cover
disposed of carefully, and
your home can easily find the seeing, hearing or moving of smoke in the corridors, you your personal affects in the
never smoke in bed. For example, there may be
keys for doors and windows. about your home, you will will need to stay in your flat, event of fire.
• Get into the habit of closing a communal fire alarm, fire
need to take extra care to deal near a window, where you
• Take extra care in the kitchen doors at night. If you want to doors and other fire safety
with the risk of a fire. can wait for assistance. Call
– accidents while cooking keep a child’s bedroom door features of the common areas
999 and tell the fire service
account for over open, close the doors to the • Flats are built to be fire- which will need to be regularly
operator which flat you are in.
half of fires in homes. Never lounge and kitchen; it might resisting and should contain maintained. Never interfere with
The operator will tell the fire
leave young children alone help to save their life if fires until the NIFRS arrive fire detection equipment or fire
fighters to come and assist
in the kitchen. there is a fire. provided doors are kept shut. safety measures such as fire
you or let you know that your
doors and never leave rubbish,
Page 14 oaklee.ie Page 15 oaklee.ie
Community Grants How to apply…
An application form should be
•
•
Details of the tenants’ group
Details of the proposed project to be funded
Scheme
What is the Community Grant? A formal residents group does not need to be set up initially to avail of a grant completed and returned to;
but a Residents Group will need to be established for ongoing funding.
• Proposed costings for the project
The Oaklee community grant is Oaklee Housing,
available to fund projects that involve Applications for projects can be made throughout the year. 132 James’s Street,
• Evidence that all relevant tenants / communities
people in their developments. The have been consulted and invited to take part
Dublin, DO8 PK25.
Association believes that by supporting Residents Group - Start Up Grant Residents Group - • Details of how the group intends to monitor and
communities and residents groups, The application should include
A start up grant of up to maximum Ongoing Project Funding evaluate the success of the project
they will be capable of delivering the following information:
of €150.00 per group will be made An annual grant up to a maximum
creative solutions to community issues available to help fund the start up of €500.00 per group will be available
and will enhance the place where of projects and the formation of a to help fund ongoing projects.
they live, particularly when they work Residents Group.
together. Examples of projects include; To avail of ongoing project grant
environmental projects, social events, A group of tenants with a creative funding, a formal Residents Group
kids clubs and community arts projects. idea can apply for funding. The should be in place. The group
group will have to demonstrate an should have the following in place;
The projects which we will support ability to deliver the proposed project a constitution, group structure and
include those projects that demonstrate which they wish to have funded. confirmation that an AGM has been
Out &
strengthening communities and which held, copies of financial accounts
deliver direct benefit to our tenants, and bank statements to show
About
their families and communities, which how the grant has been spent and
will help contribute to our overall vision evaluation of the success of projects.
of creating places where people are
proud to live.
Hawthorn Court
The project has given tenants,
Residents Association
their friends and family the
Hawthorn Court Residents Association opportunity to socialise and
have received ongoing grant funding create a community spirit and
for gardening projects within their chat about something really
development for a number of years. positive. This community spirit
The funding has allowed them to has benefited tenants by reducing Sprucing up
the planters
the courtyar in
purchase a poly tunnel, green house social isolation and has improved d at James St n Party in Aras an
reet Community Day Garde rn
7 attended by Hawtho
and equipment which allow the keen the environment greatly for the Uachtarain in July’1
s.
gardeners in the scheme to grow tenants, some of whom are unable Court Representative
flowers and vegetables from seed. to get out an about.
Rowantree Court Gardening Group
Rowantree Court Gardening Group
have recently received start up
grant funding to purchase paint
to refurbish garden furniture and
sheds and additional equipment
and plants to brighten up the patio
area in the scheme. The project
has brought tenants from different
and Noreen
backgrounds together and has ielle Adams
Tenants Gabr Day in and tulips
at Our resident BBQ specialist Mr Terry
ng our Garden g daffodils
created a great community spirit. Neville enjoyi Tenan ts plan tin ay S ep t ’17) Dallas making sure all gardeners were
September’1
7.
e sc hem e (Garden D fed. (Sept ’17)
front of th
Page 16 oaklee.ie Page
Page 17
17 oaklee.ie
oaklee.ie
ng your Rent
Problems Payi
Gardening Competition Winner 2017 Different Ways If you are hav
paying your re
ing difficulties
nt, please do n
ot
Thank you to everyone who participated and congratulations to the winner. If you are a keen
to Pay Your Rent ignore the prob
Housing Office
lem – contact yo
r to discuss th
e
ur
ce
provide as sistan
gardener, you too can enter next year’s competition, simply send in your entries to be in with issues. We can
a chance of winning!
There are a number of and advice re
garding deb t
methods which are available and budgeting.
management .
to pay your rent including; Tel: 01 400 2650
Payment Card Standing Order
Maureen Lawler Florence Gillespie The payment card can be used at A standing order can be set up
Hawthorn Court, Kildare 28 Cuirt Na hAbhann any PostPoint outlet in Ireland to pay rent via your bank or you
The winner of this year’s Best Front/Back Garden displaying one of the PostPoint can use your internet online Changes in
signs below or it can be used at banking facility. Further details
Gardening Competition
any Post Office. are available from Oaklee Housing
Circumstances
is Maureen Lawlor at 9
Services Centre - T: 01 400 2650. If your rent is calculated on the
Hawthorn Court. There
Household Budget basis of your income. You must
were many beautiful
Rent can be deducted from mybills.ie advise the Association of any
entries but Maureen’s
Welfare Benefits via the Household mybills.ie is a free service from An changes in your circumstances as
garden really stood out
Budget Scheme, administered by Post providing a ‘one-stop-shop’ for soon as they occur, including;
with her creative use
of props and colour. An Post. A deduction form can be paying bills online including your • changes to household income
downloaded from www.anpost.ie weekly rental payment. Tenants ( including additional income
Congratulations Maureen
or call 1800 707172 or contact our can also set up payments to pay a from training schemes or
and thanks to everyone
Services Centre on 01 400 2650. regular amount automatically. increases in welfare benefits)
that entered! Maureen Lawler • if anyone moves in or out of
Hawthorn Court, Kildare
Coming Soon! your property
Best Window Sill Display • if additional children join
We are currently setting up a Direct Debit the household.
payment facility for tenants to pay rent. Further
details will be made available at a later date.
Homes Available immediately! Credit Union Loans
Abbey Village in Donegal A new loan scheme is being rolled out in Credit Unions nationally specifically aimed at those on social welfare. This initiative is
about combating the grip of moneylenders on low income individuals and households in receipt of social welfare.
Flat 18 is a 1 bed first floor flat. Abbey Court
consists of 18 apartments which are a mix of The scheme was developed in conjunction with the Citizens Information Board, MABS, An Post, the League of Credit
Unions and the Social Finance Foundation and is supported by the Government and Department of Social Protection.
sheltered and HSE units which are used for
housing people with intellectual disabilities. The “It Makes Sense Loan” is available in over 100 credit unions across the country. The loan is available at a rate of
There’s a scheme coordinator on site 3 days 12.68% APR in contrast to excessive rates of circa 200% charged by some moneylenders. When the unexpected bill
a week as well as a cleaner to clean the arrives for home repairs, a family occasion or to purchase a new fridge rather than turn to moneylenders, the credit
communal areas. To apply call 01 400 2650. unions are offering micro credit loans to social welfare recipients.
Applicants for the ‘It Makes Sense’ loan do not already have to be members of the credit union. Once the person lives
or works in a credit union’s common bond area and over 18 years of age, the credit union can process a membership
application and then accept their loan request. There is no automatic entitlement to a loan under this scheme.
Potential borrowers must be able to show a capacity to repay the loan.
For applicants who receive their social welfare payments in cash (via a post office), the repayment for this loan must
be made via the Household Budget Scheme, operated by An Post. Borrowers must be willing to sign up to and use the
Household Budget Scheme to enable loan repayments.
For those who receive social welfare electronically (into a bank or credit union account), repayments for must be
made by standing order or direct debit, directly from the account which receives the social welfare payment.
Additional information on the scheme is available at www.itmakessenseloan.ie
Page 18 oaklee.ie Page 19 oaklee.ieColouring It’s really easy to enter, just pull out this page and colour it
in anyway you like! Then pop it in the post along with you
name, age, address and telephone number in the reply slip
Competition below to The Editor, Oaklee Housing (News), 132 James’s Street,
Dublin, DO8 PK25. One lucky winner will receive this great prize!
Entries must be received by 15/01/17. (Please note that the
parent must be a tenant of Oaklee Housing).
our
is is y
e y k ids th -off your
H ow
e to sh lls
chanc louring ski
co
fa m ily
Win anema
Ci s!
Pas
Name Age
Address
Daytime Telephone Evening Telephone
POST TO:
The Editor
Oaklee Housing (News)
132 James’s Street
Dublin, DO8 PK25You can also read
