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£65 MILLION BOOST FOR SOCIAL HOUSING IN NORTHERN IRELAND24 October 2011Social housing in Northern Ireland is set to benefit from a £65m boost as a result of a funding partnership between Clanmil Housing and Northern Bank.
 A £30m loan from Northern Bank will help Clanmil Housing access a further £35m statutory grant funding from the Department for Social Development - combining public and private funding to facilitate the construction of 550 much-needed new social homes across Northern Ireland over the next three years. The construction industry in Northern Ireland is also set to benefit, with the investment securing 300 on-site jobs over the three-year period and supporting many more associated jobs throughout the supply chain. Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland welcomed the Northern Bank’s decision to invest in social housing in Northern Ireland. He said: “This funding is a huge vote of confidence by a local bank in the work of a local housing association. My department already provides significant funding for social housing and this combination of public and private financing will enable Clanmil Housing to build substantially more houses. In these tough economic times a £30 million injection is a timely and welcome boost not just for those in housing need, but also for our hard pressed construction industry.” Jonathan Boggs, Finance Director at Clanmil Housing, said; “This is really good news in a very tough lending market. Faced with growing demand for social housing and increasing constraints on statutory funding, our challenge is to find new funding sources that will support continued investment in social housing and make the public money available go further. “This is a truly local partnership between a local housing association and a local bank that will benefit our communities and our economy, bringing high-quality, affordable homes for local people in housing need, and much needed jobs for the local construction industry.” According to Northern Bank Corporate Banking Manager Chris Martin: “This latest contract highlights Clanmil Housing’s position as one of Northern Ireland’s leading housing associations as it continues to address the need for more social housing in the province. Northern Bank is pleased to be supporting Clanmil in making this achievable for the housing association and for the individuals and families who will benefit. “Our investment reinforces our strong commitment to enabling affordable housing in Northern Ireland – not just through our support for local businesses like Clanmil Housing, but also through our strong mortgage offering for people seeking to move house, build or buy for the first time. “ HOUSING COUNCIL PRAISE FOR HARBOURVIEW13 October 2011Clanmil Housing’s Harbourview development in the Sailortown area of North Belfast has been highly commended by the Northern Ireland Housing Council, a statutory body set up to advise on housing policy in Northern Ireland.
 Development Officer Noel Devine and Housing Officer Roisin Donaldson receive the award from Councillor Jim Speers The development, which was completed by Clanmil in 2009, is the first social housing development to be built in this area for over 100 years and provides 64 high quality affordable family homes. The homes, a mix of 53 apartments and 11 houses, have been built to high energy efficiency and security standards and to the Lifetime Homes standard which ensures that they will continue to meet tenants’ needs as they grow older. The scheme was highly commended in the Jim Speers category of the annual Housing Council awards which recognises Northern Ireland’s best housing association schemes. CLANMIL TENANTS CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL ACTIVE AGEING WEEK29 September 2011People living at Clanmil Housing’s independent living schemes throughout Northern Ireland have been taking part in a range of activities including armchair aerobics and indoor bowling to celebrate International Active Ageing Week.
 Armchair aerobics helps keep Hughes Court tenants active  Tenants living at Harmony Court in North Belfast enjoying a game of indoor bowls Colette Moore, Director of Housing at Clanmil, said; “At Clanmil we encourage our tenants to continue to lead active lives as they grow older and we are delighted that our tenants are so enthusiastic about keeping fit and active. Activities and interests such as this help keep both body and mind active and also bring tenants together to enjoy each other’s company.” Clanmil Housing is a leading provider of housing for older people in Northern Ireland. It promotes positive ageing, encouraging tenants to stay active to the benefit of their physical and mental health. BIG KNIT-IN AT FOREST GLEN28 September 2011This week people living at Clanmil Housing’s Forest Glen independent living scheme in Glenarm have been taking part in a big knit-in to raise funds for Age NI.
 Frances O’Hara, Rose Lennon and Anne McAuley who have been busy knitting miniature woolly hats to raise much needed funds for Age NI Each morning this week they’ve been joined by talented knitters from the local community for a cup of coffee and a chat while their knitting needles fly to produce dozens of multi coloured miniature woolly hats to grace the tops of Innocent Smoothie bottles in supermarkets throughout Northern Ireland. For every bottle sold with a knitted hat this winter, a donation of 25p will go directly to Age NI to support their work for and on behalf of older people across Northern Ireland. The knit-in is just one of a range of activities at the scheme designed to promote the health and social benefits of staying active throughout life by encouraging older people to try out activities and exercise in a friendly and fun way. Colette Moore, Director of Housing at Clanmil, said; “At Clanmil we encourage our tenants to continue to lead active lives as they grow older and we are delighted that the tenants at Forest Glen are so enthusiastic about knitting. Activities and interests such as this help keep both body and mind active, bring tenants together to enjoy each other’s company and help keep them involved with their local community.” Clanmil Housing is a leading provider of housing for older people in Northern Ireland. It promotes positive ageing, encouraging tenants to stay active to the benefit of their physical and mental health. At Forest Glen, which provides 20 self contained apartments for people aged 55+, as well as a knitting group, tenants can also take part in regular social events and a weekly lunch club. For further information about Forest Glen, or to arrange a visit, please contact Theresa McDonnell on 028 2884 1091. NORTH BELFAST HOMES SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2011 UK HOUSING AWARDS13 September 2011Two Clanmil Housing schemes in North Belfast have been shortlisted from more than 240 entries to the 2011 UK Housing Awards. These awards are now in their 15th year and recognise outstanding work in housing which improves the lives of people in their communities. Ardglen Place in Ardoyne and Weavers Hill in Ligoneil are two of the four schemes left in the running for the Outstanding Achievement in Housing in Northern Ireland category of the awards. The event is organised by Inside Housing magazine and the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), and attracted a phenomenal response with submissions from the length and breadth of the UK. The winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony at London’s Hilton Hotel on 9 November hosted by Michael Portillo. CIH Interim Chief Executive, Grainia Long, said “I am delighted that as we celebrate the fifteenth year of the UK housing awards the calibre of entries is as excellent as ever. We hear much about the need for innovation in housing - the shortlisted finalists are examples of going beyond ideas - putting innovation into practice. Well done to all of the finalists” Stuart Macdonald, Editor of Inside Housing, said: ‘The quality of the entries rose again this year so even to get this far is an amazing achievement. In the face of some really stiff competition, Clanmil Housing has shown it is performing at the highest level - well done!’ New £7million housing scheme launched for Ballysillan29 June 2011Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has officially started a new £7million family housing development in Ballysillan.
 Housing Minister Nelson McCausland viewed plans for a new £7million housing scheme at Sunningdale Gardens Ballysillan with Joan Totten from North Belfast Alternatives and Chief Executive of Clanmill Housing, Clare McCarty. The Minister was on site to cut the first sod of the new 46 home scheme to be built by Clanmil Housing at Sunningdale Gardens. The accommodation comprises 38 houses and eight apartments, with six of the apartments designed specifically to meet the needs of independent older people. The new homes will be built to high levels of energy efficiency. All have been designed to Lifetime Homes and Secured by Design standards, ensuring added security for tenants and flexibility of adaptation if required at a later date. Minister McCausland said: “These 46 new homes will be a welcome addition in an area that continues to have a high housing need. This significant investment will not only help to reduce waiting lists, but will bring new life back to this part of Belfast. “These new modern homes have been designed to meet the needs of the local community. It is particularly pleasing to hear that residents who previously lived in the maisonettes that stood on this site in years gone by wish to stay in the area and will be allocated new homes in the scheme.” Minister McCausland viewed plans of the scheme layout and praised local community members who worked with the Housing Executive and Clanmil on the design of the new scheme. The Minister said: “I’d like to thank the Housing Executive for their help in facilitating the new build alongside their existing properties and acknowledge the support of Joan Totten from North Belfast Alternatives, who has worked along with Sunningdale Community Centre and Clanmil to help ensure the scheme delivers for the local community.” Clare McCarty, Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing said: “Clanmil is committed to providing high quality homes for rent in areas of high housing need and we are delighted to see work start on the construction of these much needed new homes for North Belfast. “We have worked closely with local community and political representatives to get the scheme to this stage and very much appreciate their help and support. We look forward to welcoming our tenants to their new homes towards the end of next year and to continuing to work with the local community to ensure the future success of this scheme.” SURF’S UP AT CLANMIL25 May 2011People living at Clanmil Housing’s Independent Living housing schemes for older people enjoyed free surfing lessons thanks to the national Silver Surfers Day initiative.
 Roxanne Owens from South West Regional College helps Barbour Court tenants Jim Farmer and Eileen Saunders discover a whole new world through the internet. They didn’t even get their feet wet, as the lessons, which were provided by volunteers form local business and colleges, were part of an annual event, supported by the Department of Finance and Personnel, designed to help older people get online. Current statistics show that 91% of people over 65 years of age have never used the internet and today’s lessons provided a taster of what the internet can offer older users and helped them gain the essential IT skills to get started. Colette Moore, Clanmil’s Director of Housing said; “We encourage our tenants to lead active lives and getting online is one of the ways in which we help them stay connected with friends, family and the world wide community. These newly acquired computer skills will enable more of our tenants to use e-mail and try out activities like on-line shopping and banking.” Mrs Eileen Saunders, a Silver Surfer at Barbour Court in Enniskillen, was keen to take part. She said; “This is my first time using a computer. Roxanne has been brilliant and now it will be easier for me to stay in touch with my son and family in Australia and England. I’ll be able to e-mail them from the scheme computer any time I want.” Local families build their way into ‘no-central heating’ new homes14 May 2011Five local families get the keys to their new front door at Madrid Street, East Belfast this weekend. Using an innovative timber frame design developed by local company Tyrone Timber Frames the Habitat homes are so energy efficient they do not need central heating!
 Clanmil Housing Chief Executive, Clare McCarty, presents homeowners Krzysztof & Izabella Korkoszynski and their son Philip with their new keys Habitat Northern Ireland’s Chief Executive, Jenny Williams, is delighted that the innovative project is now complete and is confident that this pilot can have far reaching impacts for the social and affordable sector. ‘Fuel poverty is a real issue for families in Northern Ireland with more than 44% of families affected. Habitat is committed to delivering innovative, affordable housing solutions for families on low incomes. What is exciting about Madrid Street is that we have been able to deliver high energy efficiency performance at an affordable price and address the day to day impact of fuel poverty.’ Habitat’s commitment to building a shared future for Northern Ireland is lived out by bringing volunteers together to work alongside families and the community. More than 1,000 volunteers from across Northern Ireland have built houses, community and hope at Madrid Street. Shared equity finance at Madrid Street has been delivered in partnership with Clanmil Housing. At today’s dedication Clare McCarty, Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing said; “It’s lovely to be able to celebrate with these families who’ve worked so hard to help build their own homes. At Clanmil we are committed to finding innovative ways to make affordable housing more accessible and we are delighted to work with Habitat for Humanity to help people who want to buy a home of their own take that all important first step onto the property ladder. We wish these families well as they settle into their new homes and new community.” Roy Montgomery, a forklift truck driver, and Sandie Gallagher, a community worker who has lived all her life in the East Belfast area are moving into Madrid Street with their daughter Jessica. Roy explains what moving in will mean for the family. “I’ve rented from the age of 17, with no chance to save for a deposit. I never thought we would have the chance to own our home. Partnering with Habitat has given us a wonderful opportunity. It’s a big step, but so worth it and we cannot thank enough all the volunteers who worked so hard to help us build.” Bus Lay-by Secured at New Housing Scheme13 May 2011A bus lay-by is to be built on the Glen Road as part of Clanmil Housing’s new social housing development at the former Bass Brewery site.
 Working with local political representatives and Translink, Clanmil has secured funding from the Department for Social Development to provide the lay-by as part of their 166 home scheme. The new lay-by will mean that buses will be able to pull in off the road, which will help keep traffic moving on a particularly busy stretch of the Glen Road. A planning application for the new lay-by has been made by Clanmil and work on its construction will start as soon as planning permission is received. Carol McTaggart, Clanmil’s Director of Property Services, says that the lay-by is a welcome addition to Clanmil’s scheme. She said: “Clanmil’s aim is to help sustain communities through the provision of high quality affordable homes, so it is essential that the schemes we build meet the needs of local people. Here at Bass we have worked closely with the local community and their representatives to incorporate into our scheme a solution to a problem that has had an impact on everyone in the area. The new lay-by will benefit existing residents and businesses, local schools, commuters and also our future tenants, and we are very grateful to DSD for providing the necessary additional funding.” Will Haire, Permanent Secretary of the Department for Social Development, said; “Our role is to work together with organisations like Clanmil to tackle disadvantage and support community development. This much needed new housing together with the lay-by at the entrance to the scheme will undoubtedly benefit many in the wider community here in West Belfast. I am very pleased we have been able to help Clanmil deliver these.” Work is progressing well on the delivery of 166 much needed social homes at the former Bass brewery site and Clanmil is looking forward to welcoming tenants to the new homes in Autumn 2012. A Lifeline for Dementia Sufferers5 May 2011There are currently 17,000 people living with dementia in Northern Ireland. As their needs increase many have little option other than to move to traditional 24-hour residential care.
 Green fingered tenants at Mullan Mews enjoy working in the scheme’s vegetable plot. Clanmil Housing, in partnership with the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, offers an alternative at two supported housing schemes in Belfast - Sydenham Court and Mullan Mews - that enable older people with dementia to continue to enjoy a meaningful life, living within the community. These schemes were recently featured on the BBC Lifeline programme to raise awareness of how this model of housing ensures an active and rewarding lifestyle for our tenants, whilst also providing a high level of reassurance and peace of mind for their families. Clanmil wants to work with health trusts and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to build more supported housing for people with dementia throughout Northern Ireland. Our programme on the BBC Appeals website - http://www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/community/aac/appeals/lifeline_april11.shtml Contact us on 028 9087 6000 to find out more about this model of supported housing. Candidates enjoy Pre Election Relaxation at Hughes Court19 April 2011First Minister Peter Robinson, East Belfast MLA Robin Newton and Stormont hopeful Sammy Douglas took time out from the campaign trail today to join tenants living at Clanmil Housing’s Hughes Court independent living scheme for older people in East Belfast, for some relaxing reflexology.
 The visitors were at the scheme to meet tenants and see the ongoing refurbishment work which, at a cost of £114,000, includes new hardwood, double glazed windows in tenants’ apartments and new and extended communal tenant’s facilities. The reflexology session was part of the scheme’s active ageing programme which aims to improve the health and well being of tenants living at the scheme by encouraging them to stay active. Colette Moore, Director of Housing at Clanmil, said: “We are currently in the midst of a £114,000 refurbishment to further improve our Hughes Court scheme. As well as providing high quality home, at Clanmil we also focus on ensuring our tenants continue to enjoy an active lifestyle as they grow older. Activities and interests such as this reflexology session, armchair aerobics, the Galileo Astronomy club at Hughes Court and Longer Life Learning can help tenants to participate in an active lifestyle. Hopefully our visitors have also enjoyed some relaxing time out from the busy run up to next month’s elections.” Hughes Court provides people over 60 with the support they need to stay in a home of their own as they grow older, offering independence, companionship, an active lifestyle and security in 59 self-contained apartments and bungalows. Apartments at Hughes Court are available to rent. Please contact Eleanor or Carolyn at Hughes Court on 02890491704 for further details or check out our website on www.clanmil.org.uk. £8 MILLION HOUSING SCHEME FOR OLDER PEOPLE OPENS IN LISBURN21 March 2011A development of new homes for active older people was officially opened today in Lisburn.
 Joan Baird, Chair of Clanmil, Mrs Maureen Ferris, a tenant at Seymour Court, Will Haire, Permanent Secretary of the Department for Social Development, Councillor Brian Heading, Deputy Mayor of Lisburn and Clare McCarty, Clanmil Chief Executive, at the official opening of the £8 Million development. The new Seymour Court development in Seymour Street, close to Lisburn City Centre, is owned and managed by Clanmil Housing Association and provides 48 three person, two bedroom apartments for people aged 55 and over, along with underground car parking and a courtyard garden. The new homes have been built to high energy efficiency and security standards and to the Lifetime Homes standard which ensures that they will continue to meet tenants’ needs as they grow older, helping them maintain long term independence. Will Haire, Permanent Secretary of the Department for Social Development, officially opened the new scheme along with Deputy Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Brian Heading. The total cost of delivering the Seymour Court scheme was £8.4 million. Housing Association Grant of £6.2 million was provided by the Department for Social Development through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. The balance of £2.2 million was funded by Clanmil through private finance. Joan Baird, Chair of Clanmil Housing, said: “Our aim is to provide high quality, affordable homes that really meet our tenants’ needs. Low running costs, excellent security and a convenient location combined with good design practice will ensure that our tenants can continue to live independently in a home of their own as they grow older. We are very grateful to the local community and their political representatives for their assistance in delivering this scheme and look forward to continuing to work together to help our tenants settle into their new homes and new community.” Speaking at the opening Permanent Secretary, Will Haire, said: “The delivery of high quality, energy efficient, sustainable housing is a priority for the Department for Social Development. Social housing in Northern Ireland is amongst the best in the UK and this latest development, which the department has part funded with grant aid, demonstrates that to good effect. Older people requiring easily managed accommodation make up a high proportion of the waiting list in Lisburn City. These apartments are ideally suited to their housing needs.” Deputy Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Brian Heading, welcomed the new scheme for the City. He said: “I am delighted to be part of the official opening of Seymour Court Housing Scheme today and want to congratulate everyone in bringing this project to fruition. The good work of Clanmil Housing Association is fully supported by Lisburn City Council and this development is an excellent example of what can be achieved when several organisations come together with a vision. I wish all the tenants health and happiness in their new homes.” Mrs Maureen Ferris, who moved into Seymour Court in January, is delighted with her new apartment. She said: “It was a big decision to move house at this stage in my life but already I feel that it was the best move I’ve ever made. My apartment is so much easier to manage than my old house and I’ve already got to know my neighbours. The security is a big plus too. You need to feel safe in your home no matter what age you are, but when you’re older the peace of mind that feeling secure brings is even more important. I can’t see myself ever moving from here.” TOP HOUSING AWARDS FOR CLANMIL4 March 2011Clanmil Housing has scooped two top prizes at the annual Housing Awards organised by the Chartered Institute of Housing, the professional body for the housing sector.
Byron Fox and Aoife Tully from the Sailortown Playgroup helps Clare McCarty, Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing Association, celebrate a Chartered Institute of Housing award for the area’s new Harbourview housing scheme. The Housing Awards celebrate the life-changing achievements of housing organisations and individuals who are committed to making a real difference to communities across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Clanmil won the Building Sustainable Communities through Regeneration or Development Award for its Harbour View housing scheme in the Sailortown area of North Belfast. The Harbour View scheme provides 68 high quality affordable family homes for rent in an area where the need for social housing is particularly high. It is the first social housing scheme for the area in over 100 years and was part funded by the Department for Social Development through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. The award recognises the scheme’s contribution to the economic and social sustainability of the area. In addition, Clanmil scheme co-ordinator, Brian Forde, who manages the Association’s Barbour Court independent living scheme in Enniskillen, received the top Inspirational Colleague award, recognising Brian’s commitment to providing a professional, high quality service to tenants living at the scheme. Clare McCarty, Clanmil’s Chief Executive, was delighted to receive these accolades . She said; “We are very proud of what has been achieved at Harbour View and would like to thank our tenants for making this scheme such a success. We worked closely with the local community and their representatives to deliver a housing solution that reflects their needs and aspirations as well as strengthening and sustaining the community as a whole. We are very grateful to local community and political representatives who worked with us to deliver this development, and who continue to support us in promoting a good neighbourhood at the scheme.” Clare continued; “We are also delighted that Brain’s hard work has been recognised in this way. Brain works tirelessly to ensure that Barbour Court tenants get the best possible service. He goes way beyond what’s expected of a Scheme Co-ordinator and has a truly inspiring passion for his job.” Grainia Long, Director of CIH Northern Ireland, commended Clanmil Housing on their two awards, saying; “Clanmil’s success in winning the Building Sustainable Communities through Regeneration or Development Award and the Inspirational Colleague Award demonstrate its commitment to building high-quality homes and communities and providing ongoing support for those who live in its housing schemes. My congratulations to all involved in developing the Harbour View Scheme and to Brian for the inspirational work he does in Barbour Court.” Barbour Court is a housing scheme for people over 60 that provides tenants with the support they need to stay in a home of their own as they grow older, offering independence, companionship, an active lifestyle and security in 28 self-contained apartments. Social Clauses Initiative could create almost two thousand work placements1 March 2011Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood, today outlined innovative new plans to potentially help get hundreds of work placements for long term unemployed.
Attwood ’digs in’ to get new homes in markets14 January 2011Social Development Minister Alex Attwood today officially launched the start of building work at a £2million housing scheme in the Markets area of Belfast.
 The development of 16 two bedroom apartments at Stewart Street, on the site of the former Housing Executive district heating plant, is being funded by the Department for Social Development and Clanmil Housing. The accommodation has been designed to a high energy efficient specification and will include landscaped gardens and secure on site car parking for residents. Minister Attwood said: “This is a boost for an area which needs more housing. It will be an iconic building, built to the very highest specification. This latest development represents my Department’s commitment to the on going regeneration and revitalisation of this much deprived part of the City. “The delivery of high numbers of sustainable housing is one of my key priorities. This year will see the greatest number of houses started for more than a decade. I have seen for myself the difference that good housing can bring to people’s lives and I will continue to do my utmost to deliver what is required for our most vulnerable citizens.” Clare McCarty, Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing said: “Clanmil is committed to providing high quality, affordable homes for rent in areas of high housing need and we are delighted to see work start on the construction of these much needed apartments. We have worked closely with local community and political representatives to get the scheme to this stage and very much appreciate their help and support. We look forward to continuing to work with them in the delivery and management of this scheme.” International Dementia Award for Belfast26 November 2010An East Belfast supported housing scheme for older people with dementia has won a top award at this year’s International Dementia Excellence Awards.
 Health Minister Michael McGimpsey joined Mullan Mews tenant, Jean Kiddell and Clanmil Chief Executive, Clare McCarty to celebrate an International Dementia Excellence Award for the Pleasures of Eating. The award for the Mullan Mews scheme, owned by Clanmil Housing and managed in partnership with the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, was presented at the international ‘Coming of Age’ conference in London, seeing off competition from providers of dementia services worldwide. Mullan Mews is a supported housing scheme providing specialised accommodation and support for 30 older people with dementia enabling them to maintain a high level of independence and social inclusion. The physical design of the scheme, and the support provided, compensates for the disability caused by dementia and promotes an active and rewarding lifestyle for the tenants. Mullan Mews took first place in the “Pleasure of Eating” category of the awards which recognises work to enhance the quality and experience of meal times and food associated activities for people with dementia. The award was sponsored by La Foundation Médéric Alzheimer in Paris and the prize includes a grant of £1000 to be used to further promote the well being of those living at Mullan Mews. Speaking with staff and residents at Mullan Mews, Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey said: "I want to congratulate everyone involved in the development of the ‘Pleasure of Eating’ service at Mullan Mews. I am sure that it will make a significant difference to the lives of its residents who suffer from dementia, as well as to their families and carers." “This award for Mullan Mews represents a very positive step forward in the continued development of dementia services in Northern Ireland.” Clare McCarty, Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing, was delighted to receive the award. Clare said: “The pleasure of enjoying food is not always experienced by people with dementia. Often so much emphasis is placed on maintaining physical wellbeing and personal safety for people with dementia that basic pleasures like eating can be missed out. At Mullan Mews food really matters, and simple, practical initiatives have proved very successful in helping tenants maintain a nutritious, balanced diet in an enjoyable way. Supported living in the community offers an alternative to residential care for people with dementia that focuses on maintaining quality of life and Mullan Mews is an excellent example of partnership working between Clanmil, Belfast Trust and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s Supporting People Programme. Clanmil is currently pursuing plans, subject to the availability of funding, to build a similar scheme at our Bass Brewery development site on the Glen Road in West Belfast.” At Mullan Mews tenants grow vegetables in their own gardens, plan menus and regularly go grocery shopping. In each house the kitchen is the heart of the home, where tenants prepare meals with the help of support staff and gather to eat and talk or just enjoy the company. These activities help maintain community involvement and restore the tenants’ joy in the simple pleasure of a good meal shared with friends, often prompting memories of past family celebrations and favourite foods. Mullan Mews was also shortlisted in the Dementia Design Innovation of the Year category of the awards. MAKEOVER FOR BANGOR’S ICONIC SAVOY21 October 2010Just days after the re-opening of the iconic Savoy Hotel in London, Lady Hermon, Member of Parliament for North Down, joined Clanmil Housing residents and staff for “Tea at the Savoy” to celebrate the re-opening of The Savoy independent living scheme in Bangor, which like its London namesake, has just undergone major refurbishment.
 The building, formerly the Savoy Hotel and a Bangor landmark, was converted into 56 self contained independent living apartments for older people in 1990. As well as extensive internal improvements, the recently completed refurbishment, undertaken by Dixon Contractors, has sympathetically restored the listed building’s façade to its former glory, making the Savoy one of the best examples of 1930’s Art Deco architecture in Northern Ireland and a home to be proud of for its residents. At a cost of £1 million, the nine month renovation project included a new roof, re-plastering of the façade, upgraded insulation and heating system, new windows, a replacement lift, refurbishment of communal areas, replacement kitchens in the apartments and the upgrading of the building’s security and emergency systems. The Savoy, one of 33 independent living schemes owned and managed by Clanmil Housing throughout Northern Ireland, provides residents with the support they need to stay in a home of their own as they grow older, offering independence, companionship, an active lifestyle and security in an easier-to-manage apartment. Joan Baird, Chair of Clanmil Housing Association, said: “The Savoy Hotel was famed for the standard of its accommodation and customer service and Clanmil is delighted to maintain that tradition. There is such a vibrant sense of community amongst our residents here and we are really grateful to them all for their patience during the refurbishment work. I hope they will enjoy life at the ‘new’ Savoy.” Lady Hermon was delighted to meet the tenants and enjoyed a tour of the refurbished scheme. She said: “For months, I have been driving past the iconic Savoy building, taking note of the refurbishment activity and, all the while, looking forward to the day when I would get a glimpse of the ‘new’ inside. Now, that day has finally arrived, and I’m thrilled to have been invited by Clanmil Housing to join the celebrations for the Savoy’s re-opening and also see at first-hand the many substantial improvements. I’m delighted the significant investment by Clanmil Housing has ensured both the Savoy’s restoration to its full glory and its place in the affection of its residents and the wider community.” Maureen McMillan, a Bangor resident since 1961 who has lived at the Savoy for over 17 years, is very happy with the improvements. Mrs McMillan said: “I’m just delighted with my new kitchen and all the work that’s been done. The work men couldn’t have been nicer or more helpful. It’s great to know that you’re living in a secure place and I enjoy all the activities. I’m very happy at the Savoy. ” Another tenant, Betty Frazer, a Savoy resident for over 15 years, said; “I have a lovely bight and airy apartment and the other residents are so friendly. I feel very much at home here.” EAST BELFAST SPRING CHICKENS PERFORM AT ULSTER MUSEUM21 October 2010On Friday 1 October tenants from Clanmil Housing’s Hughes Court independent living scheme in East Belfast took to the stage, performing to a packed audience at the Ulster Museum as part of Big Telly Theatre Company’s Spring Chickens 2 production.
 The show, one of five that took place at different venues throughout Northern Ireland, was part of an ongoing creative arts programme that focuses on increasing creative expression and engagement with the older community across Northern Ireland. The performance was the result of a series of workshops based on the theme Utopia which encouraged the older people involved to embark on unlimited flights of fancy and present their visions of a perfect world. The tenants participated in the Big Telly project as part of Clanmil Housing’s active ageing programme for older tenants living in its independent living schemes throughout Northern Ireland. Colette Moore, Director of Housing at Clanmil said that everyone at Hughes Court was very excited about the performance. She said; “At Clanmil we encourage our tenants to lead active lives and we are delighted that they have had this wonderful opportunity to participate in a project that promotes active ageing and acknowledges the contribution older people can make to the arts. We need more arts projects like this that have such a positive impact on older people’s quality of life. “ Mr Hugh MacNeill, one of the Hughes Court tenants who performed at the Ulster Museum, said; “We really enjoyed the Big Telly workshops. They were great fun and kept us all on our toes. It was a bit nerve wrecking to perform at the Ulster Museum but once we got started I really enjoyed myself, and the audience seemed to like it too!” Clanmil Housing is a leading provider of social housing in Northern Ireland. It aims to promote active aging for tenants at its independent living schemes by ensuring that they continue to play an active role in society, helping to combat the isolation and loneliness that can often be a factor in old age. The Spring Chickens shows were part of Age Awareness Week 2010, a week long series of events organised by the Changing Ageing Partnership to celebrate the diversity of older people’s lives. HOUSING COUNCIL PRAISE FOR CLANMIL MOUNTCOLLYER HOMES20 October 2010Clanmil Housing homes in the Mountcollyer area of North Belfast have been highly commended by the Northern Ireland Housing Council, a statutory body set up to advise on housing policy in Northern Ireland.
 Clanmil Chief Executive, Clare McCarty and Director of Housing, Colette Moore, receive the award form Councillor Jim Speers The scheme, which was completed by Clanmil in 2007, provides 35 high quality affordable family homes for rent in an area where the need for social housing is particularly high. The homes are built to Eco Homes, Secured by Design and Lifetime Homes standards and are situated in Glencollyer Street, Mountcollyer Street, Crosscollyer Street and Deacon Street. The scheme was highly commended in the Jim Speers award for the best Housing Association scheme, recognising Clanmil’s success in working with the local community and their representatives to deliver a housing solution that reflects their needs and aspirations as well as strengthening and sustaining the community as a whole. Clare McCarty, Clanmil’s Chief Executive, received the commendation from Councillor Jim Speers at an awards ceremony at the Ramada Hotel. She said; “We are very proud of what has been achieved at Mountcollyer and would like to thank our tenants for making this scheme such a success. We are also very grateful to local community and political representatives who worked with us to deliver this development, and who continue to support us in promoting a good neighbourhood at the scheme.” FORTY TWO NEW HOMES TAKE SHAPE11 October 2010Anticipation is growing as forty two new social homes start to take shape on Belfast’s Ormeau Road.
 Work on the construction of the third phase of Clanmil Housing’s flagship Lavinia development is well underway and this week, as the building work became visible above the site hoarding, Mary Moreland, Chair of the Lavinia Residents’ Association, and young Lavinia tenant, Caitlin Bell (age 6), joined Clanmil Chief Executive, Clare McCarty and Paul Ervine of contractor T&A Kernoghan to take a closer look. The Lavinia scheme currently provides high quality, affordable homes for 124 families and single people on the site of the former North Rugby and Cricket ground. The third phase, entailing a total investment of £5.6m, which includes Housing Association Grant of £4.2m, will add a further 24 houses and 18 apartments to the scheme. Clare McCarty is looking forward to welcoming new tenants to Lavinia when phase 3 is completed next Autumn but she is concerned about the impact of imminent public spending cuts on new build schemes like Lavinia in the future. She said; “A decent home should be a fundamental right for all in our society. Yet over 38,000 people are on the social housing waiting list. Given the growing need for good, affordable housing throughout Northern Ireland, funding for the development of more new homes like these is critical. We are calling on all political representatives to consider the wider benefits for our society of investment in social housing and the creation of sustainable neighbourhoods – economic benefit in terms of construction jobs, savings on health and justice and the individual impact on the lives of families, many of whom are the most disadvantaged in our society - and to continue to support the social housing new build programme.“ Mary Moreland who lives at Lavinia and who is Chair of the recently formed Resident’s Association at the scheme said: “It’s important to have a good home where you can live and raise a family in a safe and sustainable neighbourhood.” NEW CLANMIL HOMES HELP SAVE MONEY AND THE ENVIRONMENT26 August 2010Lisburn Mayor, Alderman Paul Porter, recently welcomed families to their new Clanmil homes at the award winning Woodbrook eco-village in the City.
 Clanmil has purchased seventeen homes for social housing at the environmentally friendly development where tenants will enjoy the benefits of the latest energy efficiency technology. The innovative “green” design of the development perfectly matches Clanmil’s focus on the environment through the reduction of CO2 emissions, water conservation and the promotion of waste recycling. A revolutionary shared central heating and hot water system, fuelled by sustainable locally grown willow, will also benefit tenants by providing heat and hot water “on demand” at a more economical cost than traditional fossil fuel systems. In addition, the homes, which are constructed to meet Eco Homes standards, are designed to maximise natural heat and light from the sun – another positive in terms of running costs. Alderman Porter said: “Fuel poverty is a serious issue for households across Northern Ireland and has been highlighted in recent years by significant increases in energy prices. The Woodbrook development addresses this concern by making heating a more affordable cost for householders in the current economic climate. “These homes provide quality social housing in Lisburn for those in need, which should cost less to heat due to their high standard of insulation and efficient heating system. I commend Clanmil Housing for its ongoing commitment to providing quality affordable housing options to those in need of social housing,” he concluded. Clare McCarty, Clanmil’s Chief Executive said: “Clanmil is committed to finding housing solutions that really meet our tenants’ needs, not just in terms of the quality and affordability of the homes themselves, but also in relation to the cost of living in those homes. Fuel poverty is more than twice as common in Northern Ireland as anywhere in England and it is now widely believed that 50% of homes in Northern Ireland are affected. “Protecting the environment for future generations is also one of Clanmil’s key objectives and we were delighted to purchase these beautiful homes that help us deliver on both our environmental and energy efficiency goals,” added Clare. Deirdre O’Connor, one of the new tenants at Woodbrook said: “This is such a lovely place to raise our family and it will be a good for the children to learn the importance of being environmentally aware. Living here will hopefully set them off on the right track for life. I’m also looking forward to lower heating costs this winter. Heating your home is so expensive and the system here at Woodbrook promises real savings as well as being environmentally friendly.” TOP CLASS CLANMIL CELEBRATES INSPECTION SUCCESS15 July 2010Simon Hamilton MLA, Chair of the Northern Ireland Assembly’s Social Development Committee, joined Clanmil Housing staff and tenants today to celebrate a “gold star” result following inspection by the Department for Social Development (DSD).
 To date, Clanmil is the only one of Northern Ireland’s 36 registered housing associations to ever have been awarded the top rating by DSD for their performance in each of the four key areas of operation assessed – Corporate Governance and Housing Management, Property Development, Property Management and Financial Management. DSD is responsible for regulating social housing in Northern Ireland and inspects local housing associations every three years. Congratulating Clanmil on their unprecedented success, Mr Hamilton said; “Everyone at Clanmil Housing should be extremely proud of this outstanding result. To achieve excellence in every area of work assessed is no mean feat and clearly demonstrates that Clanmil is indeed a leading force in Northern Ireland’s social housing sector. “ Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing, Clare McCarty, is delighted with the inspection result. She said; “Clanmil Housing is committed to providing high quality, affordable homes for rent in areas where the need for housing is greatest. We work extremely hard to find and deliver housing solutions that really meet the needs of the communities we serve and a top rating across all areas of our work by the Department is a reflection of the commitment, calibre and professionalism of each person who works for Clanmil.” Clare added; “But we aren’t resting on our laurels. Our staff are continually looking for new and innovative ways to bring more affordable housing to those who need it most.” 'CURTAIN UP' AT NEW CURZON HOMES SAYS ATTWOOD1 July 2010It was lights, camera, action today as Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood MLA, officially opened the new Curzon apartment complex in Belfast.
 Minister Attwood was joined by cinematic icons, Clint Eastwood, Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and Indiana Jones as he marked the official opening of the new 42 apartment development, on the site of the former Curzon cinema. The apartments, which are owned and managed by Clanmil Housing Association, have been allocated to people from the social housing waiting list. The different religious and cultural background of occupants will ensure a shared future for tenants. Minister Attwood said: “I am delighted to launch this new ‘shared’ residential development at the Curzon. This builds on the efforts in the area and other areas to create a new order of things. At times it is very difficult even perilous but it is the certain way to go. “I commend all the tenants who have signed up to be part of the shared ethos of the area thus consolidating the great work that has already been delivered in the Ballynafeigh area through the Shared Neighbourhood Programme. “The Curzon scheme goes beyond meeting housing need. It is part of a new future for housing in Northern Ireland. The people who live in these developments know they are not utopias devoid of problems, however, I firmly believe that shared housing offers a great opportunity for a more inclusive and sustainable future for our society.” Speaking at the event, Clanmil Chief Executive, Clare McCarty added: “There has been 100% sign up to the shared futures initiative by our tenants who all share a common goal - the desire to live together in a peaceful and secure environment, respecting their neighbours. These families are helping to shape the future of housing in Northern Ireland and we wish them well as they settle into their new homes and new community.” During his visit to the complex, Alex Attwood was introduced to new tenant, Katie Whyte, who showed the Minister around her new home. Katie said; “We’ve all settled really well in our lovely new homes. The apartments are modern and bright and in such a great place, so close to the city centre with everything you could need. “Although myself and the other tenants may be different from each other in some ways, everyone is getting on well together. This is how I want my family to live and I’m sure the other tenants feel the same way. I don’t really think about it as shaping the future, it’s just a lovely place to raise my son.” Alex Attwood added: “The New Housing Agenda launched by my predecessor Margaret Ritchie, placed the delivery of a shared future at the heart of all the Department’s endeavours in housing. A shared future remains close to my heart and I will continue to build on Margaret’s legacy by working to create not just ‘mixed’ neighbourhoods but truly ‘integrated’ communities.” Attwood opens new social housing at East Belfast Pottinger’s Quay26 May 2010Social Development Minister Alex Attwood opened a new housing development of 27 family apartments at Pottinger’s Quay in East Belfast today.
Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood and Clanmil Chair, Joan Baird welcome young tenant, Connalith Dobbin to Pottingers Quay The homes, purchased by Clanmil Housing as part of the Laganside Corporation initiative, bring to completion the £10 million regeneration of the Pottinger’s Quay riverside development. This latest social housing provision sits alongside two previously completed blocks of private residential accommodation and incorporates a childcare day centre run by a local community group. Minister Attwood said: “Today celebrates the provision of much needed new housing for East Belfast and the Short Strand area and completes this landmark residential development of private and social housing. This clearly demonstrates how government and the private sector working together can regenerate and transform areas to create vibrant new communities.” The £4 million block of two bedroom apartments has been finished to the highest standards and has been allocated to those in urgent housing need. During a tour of the premises, the Minister took the opportunity to call on resident Adele Dobbin and welcome her to her new home. The Minister continued: “Having a home is one of the most fundamental rights a person can have. Social housing is now at its highest level for over a decade and as Minister for Social Development I intend to maintain that focus. A decent home for everyone will be at the heart of all my endeavours.” Joan Baird, Chair of Clanmil Housing welcomed the Minister to Pottingers Quay. She said: “Clanmil is committed to providing high quality affordable homes for rent in areas of high housing need and we have worked in partnership with the private sector and local community representatives to successfully deliver these beautiful waterfront homes in an area where the demand for social housing is particularly high. We are delighted to welcome our new tenants to Pottingers Quay and wish them well as they settle into their new homes and new community.” Adele Dobbin, a tenant at the new scheme, was pleased to show the Minister around her new home. She said: “I am pleased that I was offered one of these apartments by Clanmil. It’s really modern and bright and in such a great place, beside the river and so close to the city centre. I have settled well into my new home and I look forward to many happy years here.” SPRING CLEAN FOR CLOONA AND BELL STEEL MANORS26 April 2010Local families have come together to “spring clean” the area around their homes at Clanmil Housing’s Cloona Manor and Bell Steel Manor developments in Poleglass.
 Local Councillors Arder Carson and Angela Nelson join staff form Clanmil Housing, including Chief Executive Clare McCarty, to help tenants at Clanmil’s Cloona Manor and Bell Steel Manors spring clean the area around their homes in West Belfast.Clanmil staff joined tenants and local political representatives to spend the morning lifting litter and tidying up to make sure that the developments continue to look their absolute best throughout the summer months. Together the two schemes provide high quality, affordable homes for almost 100 families in an area where the demand for social housing is particularly high. The clean up was organised by Clanmil as part of the Colin Neighbourhood Partnership’s Environmental Week. Clare McCarty, Clanmil’s Chief Executive, was one of the litter pickers on the day. She said; “We are very proud of these lovely homes and it’s important that we all do our bit to help make sure this continues to be an area where our tenants enjoy living. I’d like to thank everyone who helped out today for their hard work – the schemes look great.” Local Sinn Fein Councillor, Angela Nelson, also helped out. Angela said; “Community clean-ups such as this are always welcome, as is the participation of the local housing association. These events encourage people to get involved and help give residents a sense of pride in their area.” Former Ben Sherman site Collared for social housing25 February 2010Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has joined Clanmil Housing to officially open a new development of 18 family apartments at Sherman Court in Derry.
 Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie joined Clanmil Chair, Joan Baird and Mayor of Derry, Councillor Paul Fleming to officially open Clanmil’s new Sherman Court homes The homes, built on the site of the former Ben Sherman shirt factory on the Cityside, have been allocated to families in urgent housing need. The development, completed in November, was purchased by Clanmil for social housing. . Margaret Ritchie said: “Derry has long suffered from high levels of housing stress, with sites close to the city centre difficult to source. The purchase of these properties has meant that 18 families from the waiting list could be offered new homes much sooner than expected. “My main focus and top priority is to increase the supply of social and affordable housing. This year, the New Housing Agenda will deliver the highest number of new build social houses for over a decade. “I have seen for myself the difference that good housing can make to the lives of people. That is why I will leave no stone unturned in my desire to address urgent housing need.” Joan Baird, Chair of Clanmil Housing said: “Clanmil Housing is committed to providing high quality affordable homes for rent in areas of high housing need and we have worked in partnership with the developer and local community representatives to successfully deliver these beautiful city centre homes in an area where the demand for social housing is particularly high.” “Although Clanmil is well known in Derry for its Somme Park independent living scheme for older people, Sherman Court is our first major family housing scheme in the City. We are therefore delighted to welcome our new tenants to the scheme and wish them well as they settle into their new homes and community.” Mrs Susan McLaughlin, a tenant at the new Sherman Court development, was pleased to show the Minister around her new home. She said: “I couldn’t believe my luck when I was offered one of these lovely new apartments by Clanmil. It’s really modern and bright and in such a great place, so close to the city centre and within walking distance of everything I need.” “It’s just over three months since we all moved in and we’re settling in really well to our lovely new homes.” £25 MILLION INVESTMENT IN NEW SOCIAL HOMES FOR WEST BELFAST10 Decemeber 2009200 JOBS FOR CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY OVER NEXT TWO AND A HALF YEARS
 Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie MLA joined Clanmil Housing today to announce the construction of 166 new social homes on the 12 acre former Inbev Brewery site in West Belfast. The total cost of providing the homes will be circa £25 million and Housing Association Grant of £17.7 million will be provided to Clanmil for the scheme by the Department for Social Development through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. The balance of around £7.5 million will be funded by Clanmil through private finance. The homes form the major part of a mixed use development including retail and office accommodation. When completed in September 2012 the scheme will provide 166 new high quality, affordable family homes in an area of high housing need. The scheme is one of the largest social housing schemes currently to be undertaken in Northern Ireland and will provide around 200 on-site jobs for Northern Ireland’s flagging construction industry and many more associated jobs throughout the supply chain. Although the scheme has been approved to Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, a national standard promoting the construction of greener homes and addressing fuel poverty, it is Clanmil’s aspiration to design and build the new homes to Level 4 of the Code which will make them 44% more energy efficient than regular homes. Materials from the demolition of the existing buildings on-site will be reused in the construction of the new homes, helping to reduce the development’s overall carbon footprint. Margaret Ritchie said; “The creation of these 166 high quality houses and apartments will make a tremendous contribution towards delivering the highest number of new build social houses within the next 2 years for over a decade as part of my New Housing Agenda. This major investment will drive forward the physical and environmental regeneration that has been so long desired in this part of the city. I look forward to seeing work on the site get underway.” Clare McCarty, Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing said; “Clanmil provides high quality, affordable homes for rent in areas of high housing need, and we are delighted to announce the development of this major family housing scheme which will help meet the high level of housing need in the West Belfast area. I would like to thank local political and community representatives for their ongoing support in delivering this scheme. Not only will this development deliver 166 much needed social homes, but it will also provide an important boost for the local construction industry during a difficult time.” The homes will be built to the Lifetime Homes standard, ensuring they will continue to meet tenants’ needs as they grow older or their mobility needs change, and to Secured by Design Standards, which, in consultation with the PSNI, focuses on introducing security features at the design and construction stage. CLANMIL SCOOPS TOP NATIONAL HOUSING AWARD12 November 2009Clanmil Housing, one of Northern Ireland’s leading housing associations, has competed against housing associations throughout the UK to take the top award at this year’s national UK Housing Awards.
(L-R): Brendan Morrissey, Joan Baird and Debbie Cousins of Clanmil Housing received the Outstanding Achievement in Housing in the UK award at the UK Housing Awards from Mehban Chowdery, Regional Director of NHBC. 
Joan Baird, Chair of Clanmil Housing receives the award for Outstanding Achievement in Housing in Northern Ireland from Heather Cousins, Department for Social Development watched by Brendan Morrissey and Debbie Cousins, also Clanmil Housing. The award, for Outstanding Achievement in Housing in the UK, was presented to Clanmil at a gala ceremony in the London Hilton, Park Lane yesterday afternoon (11 November) for its Shared Future family housing scheme at Causeway Meadows in Lisburn. Clanmil also took first place in the “Outstanding Achievement in Northern Ireland” category. The annual UK Housing Awards, organised by the Chartered Institute of Housing in partnership with Inside Housing magazine, showcase excellence by housing organisations throughout the UK. The accolade recognises Clanmil’s success in delivering a mixed community at the Causeway Meadows development and the importance of housing in ensuring a peaceful and stable future for Northern Ireland. Margaret Ritchie MLA, Minister for Social Development, welcomed the award for Clanmil. She said; "I am delighted that Causeway Meadows has been recognised across Britain and Northern Ireland as an exemplar of a high quality shared future housing scheme. Causeway Meadows delivers on all levels with private tenants living alongside social housing tenants as well as with people from different cultural and religious backgrounds. I would like to commend all those who worked so hard to make this scheme a reality and by so doing have demonstrated that a shared future is the way forward in housing. It is my vision that schemes like Causeway Meadows will become the norm rather than the exception, and that is why Shared Future Housing is a central theme in my New Housing Agenda." The Shared Future initiative aims to create mixed neighbourhoods where people choose to live with others in an area where diversity is welcomed. Families, who earlier this year moved into 22 new homes purchased by Clanmil for social housing at Causeway Meadows, a private development of 140 homes in Lisburn, signed a voluntary charter committing to live harmoniously alongside their neighbours regardless of their religion, race or political beliefs. Joan Baird, Chair of Clanmil Housing, was delighted to receive the award. Mrs Baird said; “Not only has Clanmil succeeded at Causeway Meadows in providing high quality family homes in an area of housing stress but we have also successfully delivered a mixed scheme in terms of people from different cultural and social backgrounds, as well as social housing tenants and private homeowners and tenants, living happily side-by-side.” “Our tenants at Causeway Meadows are helping to shape the future of Northern Ireland. All are keen to promote stability and harmony in their neighbourhood and we are delighted that their progressive lifestyle choice has been recognised by this award.” “The success of this scheme is also a tribute to the commitment and dedication of Clanmil staff who, with the support of the NIHE, continue to promote fully integrated housing.” Clanmil Housing’s Mullen Mews, a specialised supported group housing scheme in Belfast which enables people living with dementia to maintain their independence, was one of six schemes from throughout the UK shortlisted in the “Contributing to Housing and Health” category of the awards. STRONGE COURT CLEANS UP AT SUPERVALU BEST KEPT AWARDS5 November 2009Clanmil Housing’s Stronge Court sheltered housing scheme in Portadown has taken a top title in this year’s prestigious SuperValu Best Kept Town, Village and Housing Area Awards.
 The annual awards scheme is organised by the Northern Ireland Amenity Council (NIAC) and sponsored by independent retail group SuperValu. Doreen Muskett MBE, President of NIAC said; “Stronge Court is a wonderful example of what can be achieved by a community when they work together to keep an area clean and green. The judges were impressed with the obvious civic pride in the area and that is exactly what being a Best Kept winner is all about.” “For over half a century the awards have aimed to encourage people to make the most of their surroundings, to protect our diverse wildlife and plant life and make Northern Ireland a better place to live and work. The winning communities have demonstrated their commitment across all of these areas and deserve the title of Northern Ireland’s Best Kept for 2009.” The Awards were presented at a ceremony in the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh, and tenants from Stronge Court were there to pick up the award. Clanmil’s Director of Housing, Colette Moore was delighted that Stronge Court had won. She said; “Clanmil takes great pride in the way their housing schemes look and we have supported the Best Kept Awards for a number of years. By taking an active interest in their own gardens, as well as helping out in communal areas, our tenants play an important role in making sure their schemes look as good as they do – it’s also a great way of keeping fit and healthy. “ HOUSING COUNCIL PRAISE FOR LAVINIA16 October 2009Clanmil Housing’s flagship Lavinia Square and Mews development in the Lower Ormeau Area of South Belfast has been highly commended by the Northern Ireland Housing Council, a statutory body set up to advise on housing policy in Northern Ireland.
 Lavinia Square and Mews, the first two phases of a three phase development, were completed by Clanmil Housing in 2008, providing 124 high quality affordable homes for rent in an area where the need for social housing is particularly high. The accolade recognises Clanmil’s success in working with the local community and their representatives to deliver a housing solution that reflects their needs and aspirations as well as strengthening and sustaining the community as a whole. Colette Moore, Clanmil’s Director of Housing Management received the commendation at an awards ceremony in Carrickfergus last week. She said; “We are very proud of what has been achieved at Lavinia and would like to thank local community and political representatives who have worked tirelessly alongside Clanmil to ensure the success of this development, and who continue to support us in promoting a good neighbourhood at the scheme.” Award for Clanmil’s Health and Well-being Programme18 June 2009Clanmil Housing triumphed at the recent Business in the Community Regional Recognition awards.
 The award for first place in the Workplace Health and Well-being category sponsored by Westfield Health was presented to Clanmil at a gala ceremony at the Waterfront Hall on 11 June. The accolade recognises Clanmil’s commitment to the health and well-being of its employees. Karen Gilmore, Clanmil’s Director of Corporate Services, was delighted to accept the award. She said; “Here at Clanmil we understand that our people are our most important asset. We have made a concerted effort to improve and promote the health and well-being of our 180 staff throughout Northern Ireland. We believe in the edict that ‘coming to work is good for your health’!” £8 MILLION BOOST FOR CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY THANKS TO LISBURN HOUSING SCHEME8 June 2009
£10K FOR CLANMIL TENANTS TO GET “ONLINE”18 May 2009Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA today joined tenants at Clanmil Housing’s Harmony Court sheltered housing scheme for older people in North Belfast to celebrate Silver Surfer’s Day 2009.
 91% of people over 65 years of age have never used the internet and Silver Surfer’s Day is a national event designed to help older people get online. Harmony Court is one of 15 Clanmil sheltered housing schemes throughout Northern Ireland to receive new computers and printers for use exclusively by tenants thanks to a grant of £10,000 from the Big Lottery Fund’s Awards for All scheme. Minister Ritchie said; “I am most impressed by what Clanmil residents, both here and in other sheltered schemes, have undertaken in embracing this new technology. Sheltered housing for older people is all about retaining independence and encouraging inclusion, so access to the internet and e-mail services will enhance the wellbeing of all who take up the challenge. “Clanmil Housing Association is to be congratulated for having had the foresight to introduce this exciting new addition to the excellent facilities already in place. I would encourage all to get involved.” Colette Moore, Clanmil’s Director of Housing said; “Social support and interaction is a big part of the service we provide at our sheltered schemes. We encourage our tenants to lead active lives and many of them are learning computer skills for the first time, opening up a whole new world. We’re very grateful to Awards for All for funding this new equipment which will allow more of our tenants to use their new found skills for activities like shopping and keeping in touch with far away family and friends.” Mr John Stone, a tenant at Harmony Court, is keen to get his hands on the new equipment. He said; “We were all really excited to hear that we were getting our own computer for everyone to use. 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!” ENDS For further information please contact Christine Ashfield on 028 9087 6000, 075 951 18122 or christine.ashfield@clanmil.org.uk Notes to editors: Clanmil Housing is one of Northern Ireland’s leading housing associations and currently owns and manages over 2000 homes throughout Northern Ireland including family homes, homes for single people, sheltered housing schemes for the elderly, housing with care for the frail elderly and supported housing for older people with dementia. Clanmil aims to provide high quality homes at the lowest possible economic rent for everyone in housing need. Silver Surfers Day is a national day set aside to focus on helping the over 50’s have a taste of what the internet offers and to help them gain the essential IT skills to get started. http://www.bitc.org.uk/northern_ireland/what_we_do/in_the_community /deprived_areas/ssni.html Ritchie welcomes social housing at Pottingers Quay development11 March 2009Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA, today announced that social housing will be included as part of the £10million Pottingers Quay riverside development.
Habitat offers a hand-up to homeownership in the Shankill11 March 2009Affordable homes
MINISTER WELCOMES SHARED FUTURE FOR CLANMIL FAMILIES22 January 2009Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA , today launched a Shared Future housing scheme at Causeway Meadows in Lisburn.
CLANMIL SECURES £15M FROM EUROPEAN INVESTMENT BANK TO DELIVER NEW HOUSING PROJECTS ACROSS BELFAST14 January 2009Clanmil Housing today announced that it has secured funding from the European Investment Bank to deliver three social housing developments across Belfast.
 The Housing Finance Corporation in GB recently completed a £100 million loan from the European Investment Bank to facilitate social housing projects as part of urban regeneration schemes across the UK. Clanmil Housing is the only one of Northern Ireland’s 36 registered housing associations to successfully access these funds. The Housing Finance Corporation will pass on the full benefit of the European Investment Bank’s attractive lending rates to Clanmil making the loan considerably cheaper than other forms of finance currently on offer, cheaper even than borrowing that the UK Government can currently access. Clanmil will use the funding to help finance inner-city residential developments on the Ormeau Road, at Pilot Street and at Sunningdale Gardens. Together these schemes will bring a total of 238 new homes to those in greatest housing need: Ormeau Road - the construction of 124 new homes at Clanmil’s flagship Lavinia development, formerly North Rugby Club’s grounds, is nearing completion. The development has helped facilitate the regeneration of the Lower Ormeau area. Pilot Street – the ongoing development of the site of a derelict mill close to the City Centre will bring 68 homes back to the once thriving Sailortown area. Sunningdale Gardens – the development of the site of a derelict mill will bring 46 new homes to an area of high social deprivation. Welcoming the announcement, Margaret Ritchie, Minister for Social Development congratulated Clanmil on securing the loan. She said: “This represents a tremendous vote of confidence in Clanmil as one of our leading Housing Associations and will help them work with me in delivering the New Housing Agenda. I hope this vote of confidence from the European Investment Bank will encourage some of our own financial institutions closer to home to continue their support of our Housing Associations, particularly at a time when housing need is so great.” Clare McCarty, Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing is delighted to have secured the funding. Clare said: “This is really good news in a particularly gloomy financial market. The EIB finance that Clanmil has secured through the Housing Finance Corporation is very cost effective in the current lending environment. Clanmil is always looking for new ways to provide more homes for people in housing need and our schemes at Ormeau, Pilot Street and Sunningdale Gardens are a perfect fit with European Investment Bank’s inner-city regeneration lending criteria. These funds will help us provide high quality, affordable homes for rent in some of Belfast’s most socially disadvantaged areas.” Piers Williamson, Chief Executive of the Housing Finance Corporation said: “I am delighted that we can pass on the full benefit of the European Investment Bank’s competitive funding rate to Clanmil. Unlike commercial bank lending, Clanmil has been able to borrow from us at a cheaper rate than even the UK Government can currently access. At a time of growing concern over the availability and cost of social and affordable housing throughout the UK, this deal represents a major vote of confidence from Europe in social housing across the UK and in Belfast in particular.” House Purchases - Equity Sharing Scheme8 January 2009There has been a major amendment to the House Sales Scheme. As of 31st December 2008 Clanmil tenants are able to apply to buy their home in stages, as opposed to buying it outright in one go.
Clanmil 2000!!!19 November 2008Clanmil Housing, one of Northern Ireland’s leading housing associations, has just announced the purchase of six family houses in Dungannon, bringing to over 2000 the number of homes currently provided by Clanmil throughout the Province.
 New Clanmil tenants, the O’Hagan family help Clanmil’s Deputy Chair Joan Baird, Clanmil Board Member, Mildred Shiells and Housing Officer, Veronica McGovern celebrate the acquisition of Clanmil’s 2000th home at Elm Lane, Dungannon Clanmil is committed to providing high quality homes at the lowest possible economic rent for everyone in housing need. It provides a range of housing throughout Northern Ireland, including family housing, sheltered housing, housing with care and supported housing for people with dementia. Joan Baird, Vice Chair of Clanmil Housing, was delighted to announce the purchase of six 5 person 3 bedroom semi-detached family homes at Elm Lane, The Bush, Dungannon. She said; “We are delighted to have been able to purchase these dwellings and to meet the housing need in this area. The fact that they boost our property portfolio to over 2000 homes is a proud achievement for Clanmil that demonstrates our commitment to growth and our continuing success in identifying and meeting social housing need.” Local mum of two, Susan O’Hagan who has just moved into one of the new homes, says that it’s perfect for her family; “We’re just delighted with our lovely new Clanmil home. It’s all so bright and new and the kids are so excited to have their own rooms. It’s a lovely quiet development too and we’ve settled in so quickly, it already feels like home.” Another development owned and managed by Clanmil in the Dungannon area is Brodmorr Court in Newmills, a housing scheme for older people, consisting of six 2 bedroom bungalows. Kids Plant Future at Lavinia Square6 November 2008Local children have been helping to put the finishing touches to the second phase of Clanmil Housing’s flagship development at the Ormeau Road.
 97 family homes and 12 apartments for the elderly have been completed at the Lavinia Square development, and by the end of 2008, the scheme will provide much needed homes for 124 families. Last month some of the landscaping at the development was damaged through vandalism and Clanmil is working with tenants and local community representatives to address this problem. In an effort to encourage a sense of pride in the area among local children, the Housing Association has invited young people living at Lavinia and in the surrounding area to get involved in planting trees at the development. Peter Kane, Clanmil Housing’s Maintenance Manager explained what the planting session is hoped to achieve; “We’ve asked local kids to help plant the landscaping as we feel that involving them in creating their own environment will encourage them to look after it and to make sure that their friends do too. Lavinia is a great development and we want it to remain an area where our tenants are proud to live, but we need their help to do that. Developing a sense of ownership through events like today’s will, we hope, mean that everyone will do their bit to keep Lavinia looking its best. “I’d like to thank the kids who’ve worked really hard today and also the Lower Ormeau Residents Action Group who’ve helped facilitate the event.” Shelly Marks of LORAG, who helped organise the tree planting session, says that the project provides a chance for children who have moved into the area to meet and to get involved in their community. Shelly said; “We’re hoping this will give the kids a sense of pride in their surroundings so that they will help look after it.” She added: “LORAG will continue to work with Clanmill and local residents to deal with any issues that may arise in the future.” Further events involving the children are planned for the coming months, including a clean-up at the development before Christmas and another planting session in the spring. Brennen Court – Best Kept for a Third Year!22 October 2008Clanmil’s Brennen Court sheltered housing scheme in Magherafelt has won a top title in the prestigious SuperValu Best Kept Town, Village and Housing Area Awards 2008 for the third time.
 Pictured at the 2008 Supervalu Best Kept Town, Village and Housing Area awards are Paddy Quigley, Brennen Court, Doreen Muskett MBE, President of the NI Amenity Council, Jim Hamilton and Hynman, Brennen Court, Supervalu Sales Director Nigem Maxwell and Kieth McClean from Supervlau Magherafelt The annual awards scheme is organised by the Northern Ireland Amenity Council (NIAC) and sponsored by independent retail group SuperValu. NIAC and SuperValu announced the province’s Best Kept Towns, Villages and Housing Areas at a ceremoney in the Courtyard Theatre in Newtownabbey and Brennen Court was chosen as the Best Kept Sheltered Housing Area in Northern Ireland. Doreen Muskett MBE, President of NIAC said; “Brennen Court is obviously a place where the residents take pride in the appearance of their locality and it is evident that they work together to achieve these excellent results. This community co-operation is what being a Best Kept winner is all about.” Ms Muskett continued; “For half a century the SuperValu Best Kept Awards have aimed to motivate people to make the most of their outdoor spaces, to protect our diverse wildlife and plant life and make Northern Ireland a better place to live and work. The communities in the winning areas have demonstrated their commitment in all of these areas and deserve the title of Northern Ireland’s Best Kept for 2008.” Winners of the Best Kept Housing Area Awards received a Best Kept sign. Information about the SuperValu Best Kept Awards can be obtained from NIAC on 028 9040 3681 or online at www.niacbestkept.com. Clanmil Makes Community Top Priority24 September 2008Clanmil Housing has confirmed its commitment to corporate responsibility and communities by joining Business in the Community, a charitable organisation that helps companies find the best way to meet their responsibilities to society.
 Clanmil Chief Executive, Clare McCarty receives Clanmil’s Business in the Community Charter from Michael Ryan, Chair of BITCNI Clanmil is one of around 250 companies in Northern Ireland to join Business in the Community. John McGregor, Business in the Community Director, welcomed Clanmil, saying, “Business in the Community is delighted to welcome and thank Clanmil for committing time and effort to being a socially responsible business. “Membership will help Clanmil plan and structure its community activities for the greater benefit of the company and the wider community.” Clanmil is dedicated to local communities and to making a difference by using our skills and expertise to help improve local areas. Clare McCarty said, “Through taking part in the wide range of initiatives that Business in the Community offers, we hope to make a positive impact on the environment, local communities and our own workforce.” CLANMIL OFFERS A LOW COST SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING3 September 2008In an attempt to ease access to affordable housing in Northern Ireland, Clanmil Housing Association, South Ulster Housing Association and Barclays, in conjunction with Turkington Holdings have formed a unique partnership to pilot the ‘Own a Home’ shared equity scheme.
CLANMIL PLAYS MAJOR ROLE IN £200M DEAL FOR AFFORDABLE HOMES14 November 2007The social housing sector received a massive shot in the arm as three leading housing associations confirmed a finance raising deal with banking group Barclays worth almost £190m and is set to deliver 1,000 affordable homes for Northern Ireland.
 Left to Right Clare McCarty, Ian Elliott, Niall Quinn and Jean Fulton Clanmil Housing, BIH and Oaklee have come together to secure £55m which is hoped will leverage a further £135m in statutory funding in a move has been welcomed by Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie MLA. Between them, the three associations will implement a building programme that will deliver more than 1,000 new homes across Northern Ireland. Clare McCarty Chief Executive Clanmil, said: "Faced with the challenge of maximising the resources available for social housing, the three associations came together to consider more innovative ways to finance our future development plans. By combining our finance requirement, Barclays were able to provide us with a very competitive deal that meets the exact needs of the three partners." Applauding the three Associations for collaborating to secure the deal, Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie MLA welcomed this joint approach from three of the largest Housing Associations in Northern Ireland in combining to secure an excellent finance deal with Barclays. The Minister said "This innovative approach is in line with my Department"s push to attract new partnering arrangements in the Procurement activities of Housing Associations and the broad principles of the Semple Report in providing investment for affordable housing in Northern Ireland". Jean Fulton Group Chief Executive BIH said: "The demand for social housing is on the increase and we know that Northern Ireland requires at least 2,000 new social dwellings annually to be able to meet local housing need. "While Northern Ireland has undoubtedly benefited from the recent increases in house prices, the number of people who are unable to afford to purchase their own home is rising daily. If we are to avoid a housing crisis we have to add to the number of social housing dwellings available locally. To do this, the right kind of funding is crucial." Barclays has had a business banking presence in Northern Ireland for more than 10 years. Niall Quinn, Director, who led the transaction on behalf of Barclays said the deal was the latest in a series of major deals that Barclays has managed on behalf of a range of local companies and organisations. "We are delighted to be able to put together this deal which is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland,". "One of the benefits that Barclays is able to bring to local customers is access to a wealth of competitive options from across the group. This deal illustrates out ability to put together tailored solutions that in this instance will be used to deliver much needed social housing." Ian Elliott Chief Executive Oaklee, said: "This is the first time that three housing associations have come together to secure funds that will enable us all to access government money that will be used to build 350 homes. We are delighted with the solution that Barclays has been able to put together and the benefits that will be delivered to all three partners and the community." By coming together through group procurement, the three associations delivered significant savings via economies of scale. "With associations under pressure to deliver more social housing with less money, this was an excellent example of innovative thinking" added Niall. PETER’S ‘ENERGY’ REAPS REWARDS14 November 2007Peter Kane, Maintenance Manager with Clanmil Housing, has been recognised for his work in the promotion of energy efficiency measures throughout the organisation.
 Peter Kane receiving his award from the Chairman of the Housing Council, Dineen Walker At an awards ceremony at the Killyhevlin Hotel, Enniskillen, Peter was runner up in the Jack Bailie category of the Northern Ireland Housing Council Awards 2007. The Jack Bailie Award was first presented by the Housing Council in 1997 and is named after Mr Jack Bailie, who was formerly the Chief Local Government Auditor. The award is presented annually to a Housing Executive/Housing Association member of staff who introduces an added-value initiative in the delivery of housing services. Carol McTaggart, Director of Property Services with Clanmil Housing was delighted that Peter has been recognised for his contribution to energy efficiency. She said:- “Clanmil Housing places great importance on the reduction of carbon emissions and indeed, the environment is one of the Association’s key themes in its current Strategic Plan. Over the last few years we have introduced a number of energy efficiency measures throughout our existing homes and new build programme in an effort to alleviate fuel poverty and comply with Decent Homes Standards. Peter has been pivotal in coordinating this significant piece of work, and the successful outcome of energy efficiency within Clanmil, has been through the enthusiasm and determination of Peter to see this important work come to fruition.” Peter himself is delighted with the award and said:- The environment is now, more than at any time before, right at the heart of all that we do. It is important that we all contribute in some way to the reduction of needless energy waste. At Clanmil, we have done a lot in a short space of time in terms of energy efficiency but there is still much more that we can do and we at Clanmil will do all that we can to ensure the carbon footprint of Clanmil Housing is reduced further still. Brennen Court Cleans up at SuperValu Best Kept Awards24 October 2007Brennen Court, Magherafelt has taken a top title in the prestigious SuperValu Best Kept Town, Village and Housing Area Awards and is one of the scheme’s Golden Anniversary winners.
Pictured at the SuperValu Best Kept Awards celebrating Brennen Court’s success are L-R Patrick Quigley, Malcolm Wilson, SuperValu Brand Manager Jackie McCloskey, NIAC President Doreen Muskett MBE, NIAC patron Joe Mahon and Matt Hyndman. The annual awards scheme is organised by the Northern Ireland Amenity Council (NIAC) and sponsored by independent retail group SuperValu. Doreen Muskett MBE, President of NIAC said; “Brennen Court is a wonderful example of what can be achieved by a community when they work together to keep an area clean and green. The judges were impressed with the obvious civic pride in the area and that is exactly what being a Best Kept winner is all about.” “This is a very special year for the SuperValu Best Kept Awards. For half a century the awards have attempted to motivate people to make the most of their outdoor spaces, to protect our diverse wildlife and plant life and make Northern Ireland a better place to live and work. The winning communities have demonstrated their commitment in all of these areas and deserve the title of Northern Ireland’s Best Kept.” The Awards were presented in the glorious surroundings of Hillsborough Castle, and tenants from Brennen Court were there to receive their award from TV personality Joe Mahon. Clanmil’s Communications Officer Jim Pow was delighted that Brennen Court had won the ward for the second time in three years. “Clanmil takes great pride in the way their housing schemes look and has supported the Best Kept Awards for a number of years. By taking an active interest in their own gardens, as well as helping out in communal areas, tenants play an important role in making sure their schemes look as good as they do – it’s also a great way of keeping fit and healthy. “ Jim added that “This year 14 Clanmil Housing Schemes submitted entries to the Best Kept Awards and the judges were very impressed with all of our entries. However, there can only be one winner and we hope the success of Brennen Court in winning this prestigious award will encourage others to take part in the competition next year.” NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION WEEK 200715 October 2007To promote and highlight National Construction Week 2007 (8 - 12th October 2007), P7 pupils from St Malachy’s Primary School visited Clanmil Housing’s landmark development on the former site of North Rugby Club, Ormeau Road, to learn about the many career opportunities that are available within the construction industry..
 The aim of the week-long campaign is to give young people an opportunity to experience the excitement and challenge of working in a modern construction industry through a ‘hands on’ event. What better location than Belfast where there is a high level of construction activity taking place to help meet housing need.   Speaking at the event, Clanmil Housing’s Director of Property Services, Carol McTaggart, said that:- “Clanmil Housing is delighted to be participating in the event for the fifth consecutive year and is glad that pupils from St Malachy’s Primary School are able to join us this year”. The site selected this year is at the former North Rugby Club site and represents Clanmil’s largest single housing development. Carol added:- “We are delighted that children from the local community are able to learn at first hand how the houses, which some of them may actually live in one day, are designed and built”. During the visit to the site, the children were given a background into some of the key aspects of construction and also experienced some of the work by the various people involved in the building of new homes. Declan McCormick, speaking on behalf of Hugh J O’Boyle, who are the builders of the new homes, said “He was pleased that young children from the local primary school were able to take part in National Construction Week 2007. It is important from the Industry’s point of view that young children learn about the exciting career opportunities that are available in the modern construction industry. The construction industry needs to recruit 76,000 people each year with an increasingly diverse set of skills – from carpenters and Plumbers to Designers and Surveyors. In Northern Ireland, we need 3,000 new entrants each year to the industry in order to provide homes and match consumer demand ”.  Principal of St Malachy’s Primary School, Mr Brian White, said that:- “We are delighted that pupils from the school have been invited to participate in National Construction Week 2007. “There are a variety of skilled and exciting career opportunities available in the construction industry and it is through visits such as this that young people gain a greater insight into a particular industry. Who knows? some of them may, as a direct result of the visit, think that a career in the construction industry may be for them?”  CLANMIL WINS EMPLOYER AWARD29 June 2007In a year when Clanmil Housing is celebrating its thirtieth anniversary, the housing association has further reason to celebrate after being awarded the ‘Highly Commended’ accolade in the work life balance category in the Inaugural Irish News Workplace and Employment Awards 2007 at Ramada Hotel on Thursday 21st June 2007.
 Karen Stilges receiving the award The award follows hot on the heels of a national award when Clanmil Housing became the only national Housing Association to reach the finals and win the Working Families and Institute of Directors Small Business Award. The award was presented in London by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, Alistair Darling MP to Clanmil Chair, Geraldine Rice and Head of Corporate Services, Karen Stilges.  Claire Rodgers, Bernie O’Donnell, Jim Pow, Karen Stilges and Clare McCarty Karen Stilges, Clanmil Housing’s Head of Corporate Services, said: “We are delighted to win these two prestigious awards. This has been the culmination of four years of hard work. From 2004, staff have been involved at all stages in the process to launch a worklife balance benefits package which has the most positive impact on their working and family lives. The spirit with which these benefits are offered is one of a genuine wish to enrich both home and work life and to make Clanmil an Employer of Choice”. NEW ERA FOR HOUSING IN NORTHERN IRELAND17 May 2007Following the historic restoration of devolved power to Northern Ireland on
 In her first official engagement as Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie MLA, visited Clanmil Housing Association’s landmark site on the Ormeau Road in Belfast and promised to do all that she can to make homes more available and affordable in Northern Ireland. During her visit she praised Clanmil for the important role it is playing in meeting the chronic housing need in Northern Ireland. The Minister said:- “The houses being built by Clanmil are to a very high standard and show what can be achieved when the local community and elected representatives work in partnership.” She added:- “I know that young people are finding it harder than ever to find a home. Private housing is getting ever more expensive and waiting lists for public housing are long. This is a huge challenge, and one that I am determined to tackle.”  Clanmil Housing Chief Executive, Clare McCarty, was delighted the Minister was able, in her first public engagement, to visit Clanmil Housing’s latest development in Belfast. She said:- “We are delighted to see the restoration of devolved power to the Northern Ireland Assembly. This is the first housing scheme Minister Ritchie has visited since becoming Minister for Social Development and we at Clanmil wish her all the very best in her new role, and will work hard with her department, and other Government agencies, to ensure that affordable housing in Northern Ireland is accessible to everyone.”  LOCAL SCHOOL BOY NAMES NEW HOMES AT JAMAICA STREET2 March 2007Following a competition to find a name for Clanmil Housing’s latest homes currently being built at Jamaica Street in Ardoyne, local school boy Michael Crawford from Holy Cross Boys’ Primary School, has emerged the winner with the name ‘Ardglen Place’. Clanmil Housing invited P7 children from Holy Cross Boys’ Primary School and Sacred Heart Primary Schools to suggest a name for the new scheme and were delighted by the response to the competition.
 Clanmil’s Communications Officer, Jim Pow said – “We are delighted with the enthusiasm shown by the children in suggesting a new name for the scheme and they were all anxious to know who the winner was.” He added “the panel were extremely impressed with the imagination shown by the children in the suggestions that had been received and through the competition, had learnt a lot about the history of the area.” Mr Kevin McArevey, P7 Teacher from Holy Cross Boys’ Primary School said – “We are delighted that the children were invited by Clanmil to take part in the competition to suggest a new name for the new homes at Jamaica Street – the competition has been a real winner with the children. It is important for the local community to become involved in initiatives such as this and the children have really enjoyed taking part. Everyone at Holy Cross Boys’ Primary School hopes that these quality houses will bring a lot of happiness to the people who will make them their homes." Clanmil Housing Association wins Working Families Small Business Award21 February 2007Clanmil Housing Association has beaten off stiff competition throughout the United Kingdom to win the Working Families and Institute of Directors Small Business Award.
 Left to right IoD Chief Executive, Andrew Main Wilson with Clanmil Chair, Geraldine Rice, Head of Corporate Services, Karen Stilges, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, The Rt Hon Alistair Darling MP, and Sarah Jackson, Chief Executive of Working Families At an awards ceremony at the Café Royale, in London The Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, The Rt Hon Alistair Darling MP, presented the award to Clanmil Chair, Geraldine Rice and Head of Corporate Services, Karen Stilges. Working Families Chief Executive Sarah Jackson said: “The judges were really impressed by the calibre and diversity of this year’s winners. It is exciting and inspiring to see organisations like Clanmil Housing taking work-life balance seriously and demonstrating the business benefits it can bring.” Andrew Main Wilson, IoD Chief Executive comments, "We are delighted to support the Small Business Award for good practice. Embracing flexible working not only provides results in terms of improved business performance, but, with an ever increasing burden of regulation being placed on small to medium enterprise directors, it is vital to show government that there are alternative ways of raising standards in the workplace. Success stories such as those measures introduced by Clanmil Housing go a long way to getting this message across." Karen Stilges, Head of Corporate Services, said: “We are delighted to have reached the final of these prestigious Awards, and to be the only company representing Northern Ireland in this category. This has been the culmination of four years of hard work. The spirit with which these benefits are offered is one of a genuine wish to enrich both home and work life and to make Clanmil an Employer of Choice”. Chantelle Streets Ahead in the name game24 January 2007
CLANMIL NEW SECURITY INITIATIVE GIVES TENANTS ‘PEACE OF MIND’16 November 2006Clanmil is delighted to announce that the Police in Coleraine have launched the Province’s first ‘Fold Watch’ Scheme, which is designed to help prevent crime occurring at sheltered accommodation in the town.
 The introduction of the scheme at Hezlet Court will send out an important message that older people now have a system in place to protect them against the unlawful activities of criminals. Commenting on the initiative, Constable Brian Wilkinson said, “Fold Watch is similar in many ways to the Neighbourhood Watch Schemes that are already in operation. However this initiative is different as it applies only to the sheltered accommodation, and its occupants who live independently in the same building. It provides an easy to use and effective way of deterring criminals and notifying police of suspicious activity. The initiative will also help to reduce the fear of crime and will provide considerable reassurance to tenants as well.” ”Partnership and teamwork are key features of the scheme, and with everyone keeping a friendly eye out for their neighbour, we believe that it will have a significant impact on crime levels in the area.” “Community Police Officers will be calling in regularly to speak with the schemes Coordinator, and tenants, and will offer the latest crime prevention advice and guidance as necessary to ensure that the scheme remains as effective and efficient as possible.” “We have often said that local tenants are best placed to know what activity is suspicious, and what vehicles do not belong to tenants at their scheme or to householders in the area, and it is this information coupled with the prompt reporting of incidents to the police that will not just deter criminals, but will also help us to catch them in the act.” As part of the initiative the police have issued each tenant with a personal attack alarm, and ‘Smart Water’ kits to security mark their property. The Coleraine Rural and Urban Network have provided posters warning criminals that ‘Fold Watch’ is in operation. “Crime against older members of the community is abhorrent. With the launch of ‘Fold Watch’ they now have a great opportunity to stop criminals in their tracks,” concluded Constable Wilkinson. Clanmil is committed to ensuring that the safety of tenants is a high priority and has established a security working Party to coordinate all efforts in relation to security. Chair of the Security Review Group, Peter Kane, is delighted with the introduction of the scheme at Hezlet Court. “This is an excellent example of scheme staff working with local agencies to enhance the security of our schemes and provide further reassurance for our tenants.“ Blessington Court, Wins 2006 SuperValu Best Kept Award16 November 2006Blessington Court in Rosetta, South Belfast has taken a top title in the prestigious SuperValu Best Kept Town, Village and Housing Area Awards 2006.
 The annual awards scheme is organised by the Northern Ireland Amenity Council (NIAC) and sponsored by independent retail group SuperValu. Award-winning towns, villages and housing areas are recognised for community efforts to protect and improve the local environment. NIAC and SuperValu announced the province’s Best Kept Towns, Villages and Housing Areas recently and Blessington Court won the Sheltered Housing Area Award. Chairman of NIAC, Doreen Muskett, said their success was a credit to the whole community; “Blessington Court is a wonderful example of what can be achieved by a community when they pull together to keep a housing area clean and green. “The aim of the SuperValu Best Kept Awards is to encourage communities to protect and improve the environment for residents and visitors alike. Blessington Court impressed our judges in all of these areas.” Winning towns and villages were presented with a personalised sign, a park bench made from recycled materials and a monetary donation towards their environmental endeavours. Winners of the Best Kept Housing Area Awards received a Best Kept sign. SuperValu Brand Manager Jackie McCloskey, helped present the Awards and added; “SuperValu is very proud to be NIAC’s partner in the Best Kept Awards and we would like to congratulate Blessington Court on their commitment to enhancing the environment.” “The thirty-five SuperValu stores across Northern Ireland are based at the heart of local communities and see it as their role to encourage participation in the Awards, so that more Towns, Villages and Housing Areas can become Best Kept winners in the future.” Blessington Court is Clanmil’s fourth sheltered housing scheme to win this award. Previous winners have been Brennen Court, Magherafelt, Glenshesk Court, Ballycastle and Cambridge Close, Carrickgerfus KERMIT HELPS CLANMIL GO GREEN26 October 2006With a little help from their friend, Kermit the Frog, Clanmil Housing is helping raise awareness of environmental issues during Energy Savings Week 2006.
Clanmil Maintenance Manager, Peter Kane, Kermit the Frog, Chief Executive, Clare McCarty and Maintenance Assistant, Michelle Lorrimer The environment is one of the key themes of Clanmil’s strategy for the next three years and will build on the significant work that has already taken place, including:-
Clanmil’s Maintenance Manager, Peter Kane, is keen that the environment is at the heart of all that Clanmil does:- “The environment is a critical issue and one that Clanmil is taking extremely seriously. We are delighted with the work we have done to date. However, there is still so much more we can do and Clanmil is hoping to continue its quest to raise environmental issues with staff and tenants throughout Northern Ireland.” Celebrating achievement – Belfast’s Top 50 Business People26 October 2006Carol McTaggart, Clanmil Housing’s Director of Property Services, has been recognised for her achievements in social housing by being nominated as one of the ‘Developing Belfast – Top 50 Business People’ in 2006.
 At an awards ceremony at Belfast City Hall, sponsored by Deloitte, all nominees were presented with commemorative crystal to mark their achievements. Speaking on behalf of the Sponsors, Paul Clarke of Deloitte said:- “Celebrating individual achievement and creating excellent role models is something Belfast is getting better at. The refreshing difference in the Andersonstown News Group, is that the role models reflect the real groundswell of business that impacts on our city and our communities.” Carol is naturally absolutely thrilled with the award:- “I really enjoy the passion, enthusiasm and dynamism of Clanmil who provide quality and affordable homes throughout Northern Ireland. As Director of Property Services I see things progress from an empty or derelict piece of land, to a point where families are moving into their new modern homes, and this makes everything worthwhile to me. I have enjoyed watching, and being part of, the growth and many successes of Clanmil Housing.” NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION WEEK 20069 October 2006To promote and highlight National Construction Week 2006 (5 - 12th October 2006), P7 pupils from Holy Cross Boys’ School and Sacred Heart Boys’ School visited Clanmil Housing’s latest housing development at Jamaica Street, North Belfast, to learn about the many career opportunities that are available within the construction industry today (6th October 2005 at 10.45 am).
 The aim of the week-long campaign is to give young people an opportunity to experience the excitement and challenge of working in a modern construction industry through a ‘hands on’ event. What better location than North Belfast where there is a high level of construction activity taking place to help meet housing need. Speaking at the event, Clanmil Housing’s Director of Property Services, Carol McTaggart, said that “Clanmil Housing is delighted to be participating in the event for the fourth consecutive year and is glad that pupils from both Holy Cross Boys’ School and Sacred Hearts Boys’ Schoolare able to join us this year”. The site selected this year is a major development at Jamaica Street, North Belfast where Clanmil is currently building 69 new homes – Contractor for the site is T&A Kernoghan. Carol added:- “We are delighted that children from the local community are able to learn at first hand how the houses, which some of them may actually live in one day, are designed and built”.   During the visit to the site, the children were given a background into some of the key aspects of construction and also experienced some of the work by the various people involved in the building of new homes. Michael Thompson, speaking on behalf of T & A Kernoghan, who are the builders of the new homes, said “He is pleased that young children from both of the local primary schools in Ardoyne were able to take part in National Construction Week 2006. It is important from the Industry’s point of view that young children learn about the exciting career opportunities that are available in the modern construction industry. The construction industry needs to recruit 76,000 people each year with an increasingly diverse set of skills – from carpenters and Plumbers to Designers and Surveyors. In Northern Ireland, we need 3,000 new entrants each year to the industry in order to provide homes and match consumer demand ”. In a joint statement by both schools, Holy Cross Boys School Principal, Terry Laverty, and Ms Quinn, Principal Sacred Heart Boys’ School, said that:- “We are delighted that pupils from both schools have been invited to participate in National Construction Week 2006. “There are a variety of skilled and exciting career opportunities available in the construction industry and it is through visits such as this that young people gain a greater insight into a particular industry. Who knows? some of them may, as a direct result of the visit, think that a career in the construction industry may be for them?”  NATIONAL FALLS AWARENESS DAY 2006 ‘STEP INTO THE FUTURE’25 September 2006Clanmil Housing has, once again, given its support to the Help the Aged sponsored campaign ‘National Falls Awareness Day by holding a series of events across Northern Ireland. The aim of the day was to raise awareness of the risk of falling as people age and the theme this year was ‘Step into the Future’.
 Falling in older age can have serious consequences. It can lead to disability, increased anxiety and depression, reduced activity, mobility and social contact, higher use of medication and a greater dependence on medical and social services as well as other forms of care. To mark the day events were held at over 20 Clanmil housing schemes to promote awareness of the day and highlight the dangers of falls to older people and what they can do to help themselves. Clanmil’s Director of Housing Colette Moore, said:- “Clanmil is well aware that some of our tenants sustain injuries because of falls in the home and many of these can be prevented. The aim of this year’s events are to highlight practical advice to tenants so that they can maintain their independence and enjoy a full and happy life.” She added:- “The response from our tenants to last year’s campaign was very positive and Clanmil Housing is delighted once again to be taking part in this national event. It is through events such as these that we are able to highlight the good work that is going on in falls prevention to help people reduce the risk of falling and therefore able stay independent for much longer.  Keeping active is one way of making muscles stronger and therefore reducing the risk of falls. Clanmil is committed to providing a safe and healthy life for older people in our housing and they facilitate activities such as organised walks, armchair aerobics, swimming and dancing”. One event that was held at Forest Glen in Glenarm was the painting of a mural by local school children about Humpty Dumpty – illustrating just what falls can do!! SILVER SURFERS25 September 2006
  HUGO DUNCAN – LIVE AT THE SAVOY24 September 2006Clanmil was delighted when BBC Radio Ulster’s very own Hugo Duncan recently broadcast his daily radio show live from our Sheltered Housing Scheme at The Savoy, Bangor.
 Due to Hugo’s popularity, many of our tenants from across the Province travelled to Bangor and everyone had a great time.  TENANT FORUM ELECTS LEADERS AT THE AGM22 September 2006
MOVING INTO A NEW CLANMIL HOME14 September 2006Moving into a new home can be a very daunting experience for most of us and there always seems to be so much to do and think about. Here at Clanmil we have decided to do a little bit to help and are now giving every new tenant a small “starter pack” . At least you will be able to make your first cup of tea and have a biscuit when you take a break from organising and shifting furniture.
 Louise and Dylan Boyle with their starter pack Your first energy saving bulb will also be included in the pack and it is hoped that you will be encouraged to use more of them within your home. Where the dwellings are part of a brand new scheme, we normally get all the new tenants together for a “Getting to Know You “ session to introduce ourselves and explain a little about our services. It is also an opportunity for new tenants to meet their new neighbours and also the staff within Clanmil who will be looking after them during their time as a tenant. These sessions tend to give practical information such as the day the bins will be collected, local services and contact details. They also let you know the standard of service Clanmil offers regarding repairs and in turn explains some of the responsibilities that tenants have. We also recognise that there may be questions or things you want to find out about, but are too busy at the removal time remember to ask. So we will ring you after about six weeks in your house to see how you have settled in and to see if there is anything still outstanding or concerning you. It is also an opportunity to sort out any teething problems which you may be having with your rent account or maintenance issues. We have found this service to be very useful and in our quest to improve customer service are always open to your ideas about what further we can do to assist you at what is recognised as a very stressful time. CELEBRATING DIVERSITY11 September 2006A cultural extravaganza was held on 17th May at Northern Whig House and brought together a variety of groups from different cultures to celebrate diversity and build upon the valuable relationships that have already been established between the groups involved.
 Indian dancers, Chinese harpists, Fan dancers, local singers and a senior citizens band from Belfast, all came together to show an invited audience elements of their respective cultures. Clanmil Housing’s Director of Housing, Colette Moore, welcomed everyone to the event and said :- “In Northern Ireland the size of the ethnic community is growing not only in size but also in the number of different groups that are living in our communities. As a housing provider, Clanmil Housing is delighted to organise events such as this which brings together a diverse group of people in a relaxed and friendly environment”. She added “Clanmil has organised a number of these events and they have been extremely successful in increasing awareness of the diverse and exciting cultures that now form part of our every day living in Northern Ireland.   Organisers of the event, Sam Girvan and Pia Gore from Clanmil Housing said they were delighted with the response to the event. Sam said:- “We are extremely grateful to everyone who has taken part in this multi-cultural event. It is important that events such as this continue to be held as they increase awareness of the many different cultures that are now part of everyday life in Northern Ireland. He added “ we are extremely grateful to Belfast City Council for the assistance they have provided to Clanmil which has helped make it the success it has.  GREY MATTERS DAY11 September 2006On Friday 21st July 2006, tenants from Clanmil Housing’s Supported Housing scheme for people with dementia at Mullan Mews in Belfast, joined thousands of sheltered housing and supported housing tenants across the UK to mark ‘Grey Matters Day’.
 Colette Moore, Northern Ireland Chair of ERoSH said that “dementia currently affects over 750,000 people in the UK, affecting one person in 20 aged over 65 years and one person in five aged over 80.” She added “keeping an active brain in later life is as essential as keeping mobile, eating healthily and exercising, as recommended by the Mental Health Foundation, which says that people should help to keep their minds active in later life. The purpose of Grey Matters Day is to “celebrate the wisdom, knowledge and contribution that older people have made and continue to make in the community.” Mullan Mews is a bespoke supported housing scheme built in partnership with the South and East Belfast Trust and been designed specifically for older people with dementia. It consists of five houses and each tenant has en suite facilities. Assistive technology is used and specially trained and skilled staff provide support and promote independence and the continuing involvement in daily activities. At the party each of the houses prepared strawberries and cream. They also enjoyed a beetle drive complete with prizes and everyone took part with great enthusiasm during the karaoke sessions, and reminisced about music from years gone by.  Sinead Hyndman, Housing Support Worker at Mullan Mews said that “the day had been a great success and had been targeted at thousands of sheltered and supported housing schemes across the UK so that older people can engage in activities which are extremely important and does much to ensure that it keeps their grey cells healthy and active.“ Some properties are still available to rent and tenants may be entitled to housing benefit and supporting people payment to help with costs. It’s ‘Kids Play’ naming Clanmil’s Newest Housing Scheme!4 July 2006Following a competition to find a name for the 10 new houses currently being built at Percy Street, West Belfast, local girl Chantelle Gilroy has emerged the winner. Clanmil Housing invited P5-P7 children from St Peter’s Primary School to suggest a name for the new scheme and , from almost 100 entries received - ‘Shanvis Street’ was the final name chosen by the panel.
 Clanmil’s Communications Officer, Jim Pow said – “We are delighted with the enthusiasm shown by the children in suggesting a new name for the scheme and they were all anxious to know who the winner was before they broke up for summer. He said that the panel had been extremely impressed with the imagination shown by the children in the suggestions that had been received and through the competition, had learnt a lot about the history of the area.”  Vincent Green, Principal of St Peters Primary School said – “We were delighted to be invited by Clanmil to participate in naming the new housing scheme currently being built at Percy Street. It is important for the local community to become involved in initiatives such as the naming of the new homes and everyone here at St Peters Primary School hopes that these quality houses will bring a lot of happiness to the people who will make them their homes." BADLY NEEDED NEW HOMES WELCOMED21 June 2006Elected representatives of Crumlin paid a site visit today, Friday, 16th June to see for themselves the work that is being carried out to provide 16 new homes at Main street, Crumlin by Clanmil Housing.
 Clanmil’s Director of Property Services, Carol McTaggart with local Councillors Ann Marie Logue and Tommy Burns Clanmil Housing’s Director of Property Services, Carol McTaggart, welcomed everyone to the site and updated them on the new homes. She said:- “There is an extremely high demand for social housing in the Crumlin area and Clanmil is delighted to be able to play its part to bring these much needed new homes to Crumlin. Work started on the construction of the homes in March this year and it is anticipated that the development will be completed in Spring 2007. When completed sixteen new homes will be provided (Ten x 3 bedroom and Four x 4 bedroom) and all of them will be built to lifetime homes standard. She added:- “In the development of all of our new homes we pay particular attention to the needs of the local community in which we are building and involve them as much as possible during the process, with a particular emphasis on consultation before the commencement of any work. We are, therefore, grateful to Brian Burns of ‘Crumlin Together’ and to locally elected representatives for the assistance we have received from them in this project.”  Cllr Ann Marie Logue with Clanmil’s Maintenance Officer, Niall Murtagh Cllr Tommy Burns welcomed these homes and said:- “ We have fought so long to get new homes for rent in Crumlin, an area where they are so badly needed. These 16 new homes Clanmil are providing represent nearly 50% of the current social housing available in the area, and we are grateful to Clanmil for the work they have done to help in the effort to satisfy housing need.” TENANT FORUM10 March 2006Each year the Tenant Forum hold a number of meetings to discuss their business and most of these meetings are held at Northern Whig House in Belfast. However, where possible, meetings are held at alternative locations around the Province.
 Courtesy of our Chair, Geraldine Rice, the last meeting of the Tenant Forum was held in the offices of Castlereagh Borough Council – Geraldine is currently Deputy Mayor of the Council.  All members of the Forum had a great time and were grateful to the Mayor, Cllr Tommy Jeffers, for taking the time to give tour of the offices to them. A few of the pictures taken are included.  WE ARE OFFICIALLY “INVESTORS IN PEOPLE!!1 March 2006Clanmil is delighted to announce that it has been successful in receiving the accreditation for Investors in People. This is a standard which is assessed by an external assessor and measures how well Clanmil manage and develop their staff.
 To collect the award on behalf of the Association, Chief Executive, Clare Mc Carty and Head of Corporate Services, Karen Stilges, attended an event at Hillsborough Castle to accept the award on behalf of all the staff at Clanmil. SECRETARY OF STATE CUTS FIRST SOD IN LANDMARK HOUSING SCHEME6 March 2006Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, The Right Honourable Peter Hain MP, today cut the first sod of a new 27m social housing development at the landmark site previously known at North Rugby and Cricket Ground on the Ormeau Road Belfast.
 The development will be built in three phases and when complete, will provide 184 much needed new homes. Stressing the importance of working in partnership, the Secretary of State said:- “The project brings together many partners; Clanmil Housing, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, the local community, elected representatives and the design and building teams. The Department for Social Development is also involved in funding the housing project and have high hopes that it will help with the regeneration of the wider area. I have no doubt that when complete this will be a landmark development on an important site. I wish Clanmil every success and I look forward to the day when the first tenants move in. I trust that the scheme will make a positive impact that will not only be felt in the Lower Ormeau Road itself but will also radiate throughout the area and bring renewed confidence and vitality to the neighbourhood.” Speaking on behalf of Clanmil Housing, Vice Chair, Gareth Johnston said:- “We are delighted that the Secretary of State has agreed to join us to-day and that he will cut the first sod on this site. When all is completed, it will be the site of 184 much-needed new homes for the local community.  By the time all the building work is done, some £27m will have been spent. Looking around this afternoon, you might well think that there is a very long way to go. That’s quite right. And yet the truth is that a great deal of work has already been done in preparation. Colleagues in Clanmil Housing have been working for a number of years now to bring this project to fruition, and I want to pay particular tribute to our Director of Property Services, Carol McTaggart, and her Department, for the enormous effort they have expended to bring us to this point. Clanmil isn’t particularly interested in building houses. It wants to build homes. And thus Clanmil gives great importance to the needs of the community and seeks to work in partnership—and the project here at the North Cricket and Rugby Ground I hope demonstrates the commitment of Clanmil in this crucial aspect of the design process. We’ve carried out extensive community consultation with local elected representatives and community groups, including information evenings for the folk who live locally. In that connexion we’ve been particularly grateful for the cooperation of Mr Michael Goodman, who was the Centre Manager of the Lower Ormeau Road Residents’ Action Group, and for Cllr Pat McCarthy’s help to facilitate the community consultation process. I would take the opportunity to thank our colleagues in the Housing Division of the Department for Social Development and in the Northern Ireland Housing Executive for their assistance in the project. I’d also want to record our thanks to all the members of our Design Team for their efforts to date, and we look forward to working with them and the Main Contractor, H J O’Boyle (Declan McCormick and Kevin Fitzsimmons), during the construction of these new homes. Within Clanmil we’ve described this as a “landmark” project. A landmark, of course, is a place you can use to tell where you are. I much hope that, as this scheme progresses, it will be a very visible demonstration of where Clanmil is and what it stands for: the provision of high quality homes, as affordable as we can make them, that really meet people’s needs. Work on Phase 1 is due to commence shortly and it is anticipated that all three phases of the project will be completed in the spring of 2008.  Clanmil gains CSHS accreditation21 February 2006The Association is delighted to announce that after months of hard work we have been successful in our re-accreditation of the Code of Practice for the Sheltered Housing Service (CSHS).
We are grateful to members of the Working Party shown below who contributed significantly to the successful outcome of our re-accreditation.  Back Row: Siobhan Graham, Una O’Reilly, Phyllis Greer, Claire Rodgers and Colette Moore Front Row: Laura Gibbons and Melissa McGarvey (absent: Peter Kane and Jim Pow) CLANMIL ANNOUNCES MORE NEW HOMES FOR WEST BELFAST10 February 2006Clanmil Housing is delighted to announce that work has commenced on the creation of more new homes for the west of the City.
 At Percy Street the Main Contractor, Circuit Builders, have already commenced work on 10 new three bedroom homes for family housing and it is expected that they will be ready to occupy by the end of the year. West Belfast Councillor Fra McCann welcomed the start of the work and said: “I am delighted that this development is now taking place in West Belfast - an area with the greatest housing need in the North of Ireland. I would like to thank Clanmil for looking to the area for development and for working in partnership with the local community throughout this process. I hope that Clanmil will continue to look to the West of the City to develop social housing and we look forward to working with them on future projects in this area in the very near future. Finally I would like to thank and congratulate Clanmil for all their efforts.” At Whiterock Road & Ardmonagh Gardens, Clanmil are providing a further 18 new homes for families. Fourteen of these will be a combination of three and four bedroom houses as well as four, two bedroom apartments. Construction of the homes is due to commence shortly and it is anticipated that the homes will be completed during the summer of 2007.  Tommy Holland of the Frank Cahill Resource Centre said:- In order to allow local residents to find out more about the development, Clanmil is holding an ‘Information Evening at the Ardmonagh Family Centre on Monday 13th February at 6.30 pm’. At the meeting, representatives from Clanmil Housing will be there to answer any queries that local residents may have about the developments. Speaking on behalf of Clanmil Housing, Director of Property Services, Carol McTaggart said:- “The provision of these homes is further evidence of the ongoing commitment of Clanmil Housing to help meet the chronic shortage of both affordable and quality social housing in West Belfast.” She added:- “We are grateful to the elected representatives and community representatives who have worked closely with Clanmil on both of these projects to help bring about these much needed new homes to the area.” The Housing Executive’s Greater West Belfast Housing Strategy Manager, Malachey McKinney, was delighted that both schemes were about to start and said:- “I am delighted to see both these schemes getting underway. One of the key themes of the Greater Belfast Housing Strategy is the provision of new social housing and I very much appreciate the support of Clanmil in helping to achieve this. These much needed new homes will, no doubt, make a significant contribution to the regeneration of the entire area” MAJOR HOUSING BOOST ANNOUNCED FOR JAMAICA STREET12 January 2006
 MLA Gerry Kelly pictured with Clanmil Chair Geraldine Rice and Libby Murphy of the Ardoyne Focus Group Libby Murphy, Chair of the Ardoyne Focus Group said that:- “This is great news for the people of North Belfast and it will be good to see this area of land transformed into new homes” Speaking on behalf of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Sharon Beattie said that:- “The provision of new social housing is one of the 5 key themes of the Housing Executive’s North Belfast Housing Strategy and I would like to thank Clanmil Housing Association for their support in helping to achieve this. The proposed development will no doubt make a significant contribution to the regeneration of the overall area.” Past Chair, Derek Rankin, thrilled with MBE6 January 2006
Work starts on new homes28 October 2005Clanmil is pleased to announce that work has started on the construction of dozens of new homes in the Mountcollyer area of Belfast. A total of 35 family homes are to be built where a number of vacant houses were demolished to make way for the new development. The scheme is being carried out by the Association as part of the North Belfast Housing Strategy and will include a mixture of two, three and four bedroom houses.
 North Belfast MP Nigel Dodds said he “warmly welcomed” the start of the building work at the site. “This is a tremendous piece of good news for the residents of Mountcollyer who have been waiting for these new homes for many years” he said. “These homes will be for existing residents who have suffered in some of the worst housing conditions in Belfast”. “Already I have started to work with the Housing Executive on the plans for Phase Two of the redevelopment, and early next year we will also see a refurbishment and rehabilitation programme of housing in Parkmount, Seaview and Crosscollyer Streets. “Together with the new development of homes at Jennymount Street and the further development of housing proposals for Gainsborough and Alexander Park Avenue, the future of housing in this part of lower north Belfast is certainly looking bright indeed.” Carol McTaggart, Director of Property Services said: “I am delighted that construction of the 35 new homes has commenced and will go some way to help satisfy some of the housing need in this area.”  Carol also advised that local people will be able to raise any issues or queries they have about the new development with Clanmil staff at a public meeting being held in the near future. P7 Pupils gain valuable insight while on-site28 October 2005To promote and highlight National Construction Week 2005 (6 - 13th October 2005), P7 pupils from Ligoniel and St Vincent de Paul Primary Schools visited Clanmil Housing’s latest housing development at Hick’s Bullick, Ligoniel to learn about the many career opportunities that are available within the construction industry (13th October 2005 at 10.00 am).
 The aim of the weeklong campaign is to give young people an opportunity to experience the excitement and challenge of working in a modern construction industry through a ‘hands on’ event. What better location than North Belfast where a high level of construction activity is taking place to help meet housing need. Speaking at the event, Clanmil Housing’s Director of Property Services, Carol McTaggart, said that “Clanmil Housing was delighted to be participating in the event for a third consecutive year and was glad that pupils from Ligoniel and St Vincent de Paul Primary Schools were able to join us”. The site selected this year was major development at the Weaver’s Court complex on Ligoniel Road. Carol added that “We are delighted that children from the local community are able learn at first hand how the houses, which some of them may actually live in one day, are built. Some of the new homes have already been handed over to new families and they are delighted with them. However, when the scheme is finished, a total of 41 new homes will have been provided by Clanmil and we are proud to play a significant part in the regeneration of Ligoniel Village.” During the visit to the site the children were given a background into some of the key aspects of construction and also experienced some of the work by the various people involved in the building of new homes. Niall Gallagher speaking on behalf of Omax Construction who are the builders of the new homes said “ It is important from the Industry’s point of view that young children learn about the exciting career opportunities that are available in the modern construction industry. The UK industry needs to recruit 76,000 people each year with an increasingly diverse set of skills – from carpenters and Plumbers to Designers and Surveyors - in Northern Ireland, we need 4,00 new entrants each year to the industry in order to provide homes and match consumer demand ”.  He added that “he was particularly pleased that young children from both of the local primary schools in Ligoniel were able to attend and that it was not all boys who attended the visit! More and more girls are entering the construction industry after they have discovered the exciting opportunities available to them”. Speaking on behalf of both schools, Ligoniel Primary School Principal, Ms Claire Hillman, said that “she was delighted that the pupils from Ligoniel and St Vincent de Paul Primary Schools had been invited to participate in National Construction Week 2005. “There are a variety of skilled and exciting career opportunities available in the construction industry for both men and women. It is through visits such as this that young people gain a greater insight into a particular industry and who knows, some of them may, as a direct result of the visit, think that a career in the construction industry may be for them?” FULL STEAM AHEAD AS SAILORTOWN HOUSING PROJECT GETS GO AHEAD11 October 2005Clanmil Housing is delighted to announce that they have secured the purchase of the James Clow Old Mill at Pilot Street in Belfast. Located in the historic Sailortown district of Belfast Docklands, the site will be developed by Clanmil to provide social housing in an area of North Belfast which has been identified to help in efforts to satisfy housing need. Development of the site will commence as soon as possible. Speaking following purchase of the site, Clanmil Housing Chief Executive Clare McCarty said:-
COMPLETION OF NEW HOMES MARKS SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE3 September 2005Clanmil Housing is delighted to announce that the first families have moved into their new homes on the Mountainhill Road side of the Weavers Court Complex. The eleven new family homes mark the completion of the first phase of housing in the complex and the tenants who have moved in are thrilled with their new homes.
CLANMIL ANNOUNCES KICK OFF AT NORTH RUGBY GROUND18 July 2005Clanmil Housing is delighted to announce that it has secured the purchase and development of one of Belfast’s landmark sites - North Rugby Club. Work on this major development will soon be underway and will represent the single biggest investment of housing in the history of Clanmil, and cements its position as one of Northern Ireland’s leading providers of social housing.
 Clare McCarty and Geraldine Rice overlooking the former site of North Rugby Club The first phase of 78 new homes will be released shortly and the homes would be made up of 12 two bedroom apartments for older people and 66 houses for families – the houses will be a combination of two, three and four bedrooms. If anyone would like to find out further details about Clanmil’s housing proposals for the North Rugby site please contact Clanmil on 028 9087 6000. COSY HOMES SCHEME21 June 2005A major initiative this year has been the development of a heating strategy. The remit is the replacement of all Economy 7 heating systems with a more cost effective/energy efficient heating system. Given the cost involved this is being rolled out ona programmed basis and we were delighted to succeed in accessing grant funding through the ‘Cosy Homes Scheme.
Mrs Harper (centre) of Shiells Houses, Carrickfergus is delighted with her new heating. She is pictured from left to right with Chalïma Khallil (French exchange student), Katie Pilkington, Cosy Homes, Gavin Twamley, Phoenix Gas and Peter Kane, Clanmil Housing. Mrs Pennie from Skerry Court in Ballymena is delighted with her new heating system – “I’m very happy with the new heating system and it was very easy to get used to. The standard of work is extremely good and the workmen were very clean and tidy.” However, there was no time to bask in any glory as we have asked to submit further schemes to be considered for funding in 2005/06 allocation of grants. We are due to receive a decision on this by mid May with completion of all the works by end of August 05. CLANMIL HOUSING ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF NEW WORK-LIFE BALANCE PROGRAMME15 April 2005Day off for your birthday, payments for city centre weighting and private health care are just some of the measures that Clanmil Housing Association, one of Northern Ireland’s leading housing providers, has launched as part of a ground breaking package of work-life balance employment practices.
In the other categories, winners of Staff Excellence Awards were as follows:- 'Head Office Member of Staff' (all staff were invited to vote for a member of head office staff who they felt has made a significant contribution to Clanmil. Winner – John Brunton of Property Services ‘Sheltered Housing, Supported Housing or Housing with Care member of staff’ (all staff were invited to vote for a member of our scheme staff who they felt has made a significant contribution to Clanmil) 
Winner – Maureen Corry, Home Manager, Giboney House, Belfast ‘Open Category’ (all staff were invited to voter for a member of staff who has consistently demonstrated the willingness to go beyond the course of duty Winner – Jean Scott, Activities Coordinator 12 NEW HOMES PROVIDED AT CLIFTONVILLE COURT, NORTH BELFAST12 April 2005
  PROPERTY SERVICES UPDATE12 April 2005Landmark site purchased after marathon effort
NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION WEEK - A GREAT SUCCESS ONCE MORE7 October 2004
 John McElhone of Circuit Builders said “ it is important from the Industry’s point of view that young children learn about the numerous career opportunities that are available in the construction industry. In the UK the industry needs 83,000 people – from carpenters to Surveyors and in Northern Ireland, we need 3,00 people each year to enter the industry”. He added they he was particularly pleased to see that it was not all boys who attended the visit! “More and more girls are entering the construction industry after they had discovered the exciting opportunities available to them”. As well as hands on tasks such as bricklaying and joinery the children received various presentations on the types of skilled work involved in construction”.
NEW CHAIR APPOINTED AT CLANMIL HOUSING25 June 2004
CLANMIL CHIEF EXECUTIVE APPOINTED TO KEY POST23 June 2004
CLANMIL HELPS CHILDREN BUILD A BETTER FUTURE14 October 2003
CLANMIL CELEBRATES SHELTERED HOUSING AWARENESS WEEK6 October 2003
DERRYGONNELLY HOUSING SCHEME OPENED29 September 2003
CLANMIL PROVIDING INNOVATIVE IT SOLUTIONS31 July 2003We were delighted to learn that some of our tenants from The Savoy, Bangor, and The Imperial in Donaghadee, recently completed an IT Course at their respective schemes. The course was specifically designed to introduce older people to the world of Information Communication Technology (ICT). Most of those who attended the courses had never even sat in front of a computer so they were appreciative of the opportunity to have the new technology explained to them in a friendly and relaxed way and, in the comfort of their own common room! The course, run in conjunction with the Belfast Institute of Further and higher Education has been a great success and has opened up a whole new world to a new generation of users. The courses are still being run at the moment and a new course commenced in September in the use of Web Sites.
Local School kids reach out to suggest new name for housing scheme5 June 2003Local school children have named Clanmil Housing Association’s newest family housing scheme in Belfast. Clanmil Housing invited the children from Avoniel Primary School to suggest names for the new scheme, which has been developed close to the school at Woodcott Avenue. From the list of suggestions received - ‘LINEN GARDENS AND LINEN COURT’ were the final names chosen by the panel of judges – due to the layout of the scheme it was necessary to select two names.
HRH The Prince of Wales Performs Official Opening of Clanmil Housing Associations New Offices7 February 2002PRESS RELEASE
Clare McCarty elected CIH Chair27 September 2001Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing, Clare McCarty, was recently elected Chair of the Chartered Institute of Housing, Northern Ireland Branch.
Clanmil raises a glass to toast 25th Anniversary17 July 2002Clanmil Housing Association has been celebrating its 25th Anniversary in style with a series of Clanmil '25th Anniversary’ parties across Northern Ireland.
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Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie today officially launched the development by Clanmil Housing of new homes in Lisburn for active older people.
Chantelle Gilroy, a West Belfast schoolgirl has been given the opportunity to put her mark firmly on the future by winning a competition to name a new street.
Silver Surfers Day is the annual day in the calendar set aside by ERoSH to promote the use of information technology by older people.
The Tenant Forum held its Annual General Meeting on 16th June 2006 at Clanmil offices in Northern Whig House, Belfast.
Clanmil Housing is delighted to announce that work will shortly commence on the development of 69 new homes on the site of the old Eggbox Factory at Jamaica Street, North Belfast.
Everyone at Clanmil was delighted to learn that our immediate past Chair, Mr Derek Rankin, was awarded the MBE in the New Year Honours List which was announced on New Year’s Eve.
Siobhan Graham, Scheme Coordinator, Slemish Court, Ballymena (Pictured Left)
We are delighted to advise that Cliftonville Court in North Belfast has recently been completed and that all of the new homes are fully occupied. Jacqueline Morgan who has moved into one of the seven new houses and her children Connell and Caitlin (pictured below) are thrilled with their new home. All of the homes (five two bedroom apartments and seven three bedroom houses) have been built to lifetime homes standard.
After a marathon effort of negotiations, consultations and lobbying by the Association, we are delighted to announce that Clanmil has purchased the landmark site which was previously the home of North Rugby Club on the Ormeau Road in Belfast.
To coincide with National Construction Week 2004 (6 - 13th October 2004), lower sixth year pupils from Rathmore Grammar School visited Clanmil Housing’s latest housing development at Cloona House, Poleglass to learn more about career opportunities with the construction industry (today 7th October 2004 at 10.00 am).
Speaking on behalf of Rathmore Grammar School, Head of Careers, Pauline McQuillan, said that “she was delighted that the pupils had been invited to participate in National Construction Week 2004. “There are a variety of skilled and exciting career opportunities available in the construction industry for both men and women. It is through visits such as this that young people gain a greater insight into a particular industry and who knows, some of them may, as a direct result of the visit, think that a career in the construction industry may be for them?”
Clanmil Housing Association, one of Northern Ireland’s leading Housing Associations has appointed Training Consultant, Geraldine Rice as its new Chair.
Clanmil Housing Association Chief Executive, Clare McCarty has been appointed the first female Northern Ireland Chairman of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
To coincide with National Construction Week 2003 (8-15th October), groups of children from Suffolk Road Primary School and St Kieran’s Primary School, Belfast, visited Clanmil Housing’s latest housing development at Pembrooke, Poleglass to learn more about the industry.
During the period 6-10 October 2003 staff from Clanmil Housing pulled out all the stops to support Northern Ireland’s first Sheltered Housing Awareness Week. ERoSH Northern Ireland which stands for the (Emerging Role of Sheltered Housing) is a new consortium of Sheltered Housing providers comprising 19 Housing Associations, who together, provide over 10,000 sheltered homes across Northern Ireland.
Mr Ernie Fisher, Managing Director of Fisher Engineering Limited performed the Official Opening of Clanmil Housing’s family housing scheme at Mill Green, Derrygonnelly on Monday 29th September 2003.
Northern Whig House
3 Waring Street
Belfast
BT1 2DX
housing@clanmil.org.uk
Winner of the Chartered Institute of Housing Building Sustainable Communities through Regeneration or Development Award 2011
© 2011 Clanmil Housing, All Rights Reserved
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