OPENING TIMES AND NEW YEAR CHRISTMAS Monday 6th … · Gross Factoring Arrears as % of gross factoring income 9.51% 9.62% COMPLAINTS % of 1st stage non equalities complaints responded

The staff and committee of Thistle Housing Association would like to wish all of our customers

a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

The newsletter of Thistle Housing Association Winter 2019

Chairperson ................................................p2

Scottish Housing Update ...........................p2

Performance Q2 .........................................p3

New website ...............................................p6

Our Estate ................................................ p11

Our Community .................................p14-21

INSIDE:

CHRISTMAS

AND NEW YEAR

OPENING TIMES

Office closed for Christmas & New

Year from

12:30pm Tuesday 24th Decem

ber, re-opening

Monday 6th January 2020

housing association ltd.

developing abetter community

page 2

Working Together, Working for ToryglenA message from the Chairperson

John Mulholland Statutory Manager at Thistle Housing Association

As you are aware, in late August 2018 the Scottish Housing Regulator used its powers to intervene in the running of Thistle Housing Association and appointed a statutory manager and five members to the governing body. In the last Newsletter it was highlighted that a plan issued by the Regulator in May identified a number of key areas where actions were required by the end of October to address the issues which had caused the intervention. In the period between May and October the Regulator issued another two plans which highlighted some new areas of concern and also detailed further concerns on existing issues. These included Tenant and Landlord safety, the financial health of Thistle, governance and board skills and a failure to provide

accurate information to the Scottish Housing Regulator. Thistle also incurred a statutory notice from the Health and Safety Executive in relation to asbestos.

A number of reviews to address these issues have been commissioned by Thistle and these reviews will be reported on at the appropriate time. Alongside these, an independent option appraisal concluded that it was best for Thistle to transfer to another landlord and this has been accepted by the Management Committee. The identification of a suitable landlord and the eventual transfer to that landlord is a complex process and can take some time. However, it is already under consideration and Thistle will ensure that tenants and residents are properly involved along the way.

Best wishes for the Christmas season.

Scottish Housing Regulator Update

Welcome to the winter edition of our Newsletter. Since our last Newsletter, we have continued to work closely with the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR), through the Statutory Manager, John Mulholland to deal with the issues highlighted in Thistle’s Engagement Plan. The SHR will continue to have high engagement with the Association and has increased the number of appointees on our Management Committee to nine to ensure that Thistle has the strong leadership and governance to deal with the complex and serious historic issues we are facing.

We have recently concluded the Options Appraisal process to identify the best strategic way forward for

Thistle’s tenants, customers, staff and wider community. Having carefully considered all of the information presented to them, the Management Committee unanimously agreed that seeking a Transfer of Engagements to a larger partner Association is the best option. We are currently discussing this with the SHR and will share information on the process and timescale as soon as we are in a position to do so.

The review of the Major Works Contract is ongoing and a ‘block by block’ survey will be carried out to ensure that all outstanding remedial works are identified and can be carried out in the least disruptive way for residents to bring this Contract finally to a satisfactory conclusion for residents and Thistle. I would like once

again to offer my sincere apologies on behalf of Thistle to all of the residents who have been affected by the delays and disruption over the last three years.

Finally, I trust you find this winter Newsletter informative and that you and your family enjoy the forthcoming festive period. I hope that 2020 will bring a new future for Thistle which benefits residents, staff, other stakeholders and the wider Toryglen community.

Yours sincerely,

Lawrie West, Chairperson

Performance Comparison Quarter 2 – 1 July 2019 – 30 September 2019

Quarter 2 2019/20

Quarter 2 2018/19

RSL Scottish Average

(from SHR ARC data Aug 18)

Current Performance 1 Jul 19-30

Sep 19

This Time Last Year 1 Jul 18-

30 Sep 18

HOUSING MANAGEMENT Average number of calendar days taken to relet voids 27.8 days 31 days 12.3 days

% of tenancy offers refused to date 31.30% 20.01% 31%

% of tenancies starting in previous year that remained + 1 year to date (all) 88.80% 94.80% 75%

% of ASB cases reported resolved within locally agreed targets 89.40% 100% 100%

% of Evictions for ASB 2.90% 0 0

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Rent collected as % of total rent due 99.50% 101.71% 102.01%

Rent loss for year to date as a percentage of annual rental income to date 0.80% 0.01% 0.01%

Gross Rent Arrears (£) £114,644.22 £80,169.69

Non Technical Rent Arrears (£) £79,155.45 £41,318.84

Technical Rent Arrears - HB and Universal Credit Outstanding (£) £35,488.77 £38,849.85

% of court actions for non-payment of rent initiated which resulted in eviction 24.30% 0 0

% age of Total Gross Rent Arrears (current and former) 4.10% 3.20% 2.10%

Gross Factoring Arrears as % of gross factoring income 9.51% 9.62%

COMPLAINTS

% of 1st stage non equalities complaints responded to in full 98.9% 100% 100%

% of 1st stage non equalities complaints responded to within SPSO Timescales 90.20% 100% 100%

% of 2nd stage non equalities complaints responded to in full 88.2% 100% 100%

% of 2nd stage non equalities complaints responded to within SPSO Timscales 88.1% 100% 100%

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Average length of time taken to complete Emergency Repairs 2.7 hours 2.01 hours 1.6 hours

% of Emergency Repairs completed on time 100% 100%

Total Number of Non Emergency Repairs 917 1143

Average length of time for non-emergency repairs 5.5 days 2.5 days 2.9 days

% of Non Emergency Repairs completed on time 99.50% 99.30%

Repairs Completed Right First Time : Percentage of repairs completed right first time 93% 98.50% 100%

Medical Adaptations : % of approved adaptations completed in period 85.40% 100% 100%

Gas Servicing : Percentage of services within anniversary date 99.90% 100% 100%

% age of all completed repairs post inspected 11.50% 11.20%

TENANT SATISFACTION

%age of tenants receiving repairs satisfied 92.50% 99.00% 100%

%age of new tenants satisfied with the quality of their home when moving in 98.30% 90.00% 93.00%



page 3

Consultation: Proposed Rent Increase 2020-21

• Returning the questionnaire in this Newsletter• By emailing [email protected]• Download the form from our Website

www.thistle-ha.org.uk• Attend any of our Christmas events• Attend one of our consultation events

- Session 1 – Afternoon Tea: 2pm-5pm 12 December 2019, The Cornerstone Hall 22 Glenmore Avenue Toryglen Glasgow G42 0EH

- Session 2 – Coffee Morning: 10am-12:30pm 15 January 2020, The Cornerstone Hall 22 Glenmore Avenue Toryglen Glasgow G42 0EH

• Take part in our telephone survey• By telephoning the office on 0141 613 2700• By calling into the office at 26 Glenmore Avenue

Toryglen Glasgow G42 0EH

The consultation period runs from 1 December 2019 and closes on 17 January 2020. Your feedback will be presented at the Management Committee meeting scheduled to take place on Wednesday 29 January 2020.

As you know, each year we consult with our tenants on our rent increase proposals for the coming year.

Our Management Committee values your views to help them make an informed decision on what matters most to tenants for the year ahead. We are providing a number of methods to encourage as many tenants as possible to take part in the consultation. You can feedback your views by:

What Happens NextPlease complete the questionnaire on the page opposite. Our Management Committee will consider all responses before making a final decision on the rent increase for 2020-21. Each tenant will receive a letter confirming this decision.

We know that many of our tenants are feeling the pressure from continuing Welfare Reforms. The Association will continue to try and balance the quality of the services whilst keeping rents affordable; even so, we are aware that some tenants are still struggling to maintain their rent payments.

Paying your rent on time and in full each month is your most important tenancy responsibility. If you are

experiencing difficulty meeting your rent payment, please get in touch, we’re here to help. Our experienced Housing Officers and Welfare Rights Officer can help support you to manage payments and assist you in claiming all the benefits you may be entitled to.

If you wish to discuss your rent account, please contact us on 0141 613 2700 or call into the office at 26 Glenmore Avenue Toryglen Glasgow G42 0EH.

Last Year’s ResultsThe total number of tenants who responded to the consultation was 118 (12.3% of current tenants). This was significantly higher than the previous year at 29. Of the 118 responses, 47 40% of respondents preferred Option 1 - a rent increase of 3.3%, whilst 71 60% of respondents opted for Option 2 a rent increase of 4.3%. The results in relation to the tenants who selected Option 1 were clearly that of affordability with tenants confirming that they were experiencing difficulties paying the rent, whilst those respondents who preferred Option 2 wanted to see some improvements across the estate which the extra rent would have funded.

The Management Committee approved the rent increase of 3.3% on the basis that affordability was a key issue for many of our tenants.

ProposalsAs you are aware, the Association is currently looking for a partner Housing Association – as part of this process the Management Committee is endeavouring to secure a better deal on rents for tenants in the future.

In the meantime, we are proposing a rent increase of 3.1%, which will allow us to continue to meet our business plan commitments between now and when the transfer is complete.

A rent increase of 3.1% will increase the weekly rent by an average of £2.60.

You can compare our average rents to other housing associations by visiting the Scottish Housing Regulator’s website: www.scottishhousingregulator.gov.uk

Need Help Paying Your Rent?



page 4

Tenant Consultation Annual Rent Increase 2020-21

Please return this form directly to our office.Thistle Housing Association 26 Glenmore Avenue Toryglen Glasgow G42 0EH

Email: [email protected]

Please return the Consultation form by 17 January 2020

Thank you for taking the time to complete the questionnaire.

Name:

Address:

We are consulting on the rent increase for 2020-21. The rent increase is essential as it ensures we have sufficient funding to deliver services and cover running costs.

Please provide us with your views by completing this form and retuning it to us. Your views will be taken into account by our Management Committee on 29 January 2020.

Your viewsAll views will be shared with our Management Committee on 29 January 2020. We would be delighted if you could take a few minutes to complete this survey or contact a member of staff who will assist you to do so.

This year the Management Committee is proposing an

Annual Rent Increase of 3.1% for 2020/21This will result in an average rent increase of £2.60 per week

Are you happy with the level of consultation and information that we have provided on the proposed rent increase?

Yes No



page 5

Do you have any comments on the proposed rent increase?

!

!

Thistle are pleased to announce the launch of our new website, which provides user-friendly navigation updated with the latest information about our range of housing services for tenants and residents. You can access the website www.thistle-ha.org.uk.

We continually welcome feedback and suggestions on the content of the website. If you have any suggestions, please contact Daniella Sprott on 0141 613 2700 or via email to [email protected].

Happy browsing!

NEW WEBSITE – www.thistle-ha.org.uk

The Affordable Warmth Dividend is a £100 payment made by the Council to Glasgow residents who are 80 years of age and older on or before 31 March 2020 to, keep warm during winter.

Glasgow City Council have an online form that can be used to apply www.glasgow.gov.uk, or alternatively tenants can contact Lesley, Thistle’s Welfare Rights officer who will help you complete it.

Any questions, contact the office on 0141 613 2700 or by email to [email protected].

HSE confirm Improvement Notice Closed The Health and Safety Executive have confirmed that the Association have complied with the Improvement Notice issued in relation to Asbestos.

The HSE have closed the Notice ahead of the deadline of 15 November 2019.

Visit our website on www.thistle-ha.org.uk to view the letter issued by the HSE.

AFFORDABLE WARMTH DIVIDEND



page 6

...paying your factoring invoices

...paying your rent

The importance of...

The importance of...

The Factoring Charges are raised for services provided as detailed in your title deeds.

The Association issues Factoring Invoices twice a year; once in March and the second in September.

The charges on your invoice vary depending on what type of house you live in. All charges are applied in line with the Title Deeds for your property.

Your Statement of Services details all of the services provided by the Association and the proportion of costs incurred in the management of your property that you are responsible for.

The factoring invoices are generally standard and the items you will be charged for are as undernoted:

• Management Fee (flats and multi storeys)• Admin Fee (properties where no management fee is

charged)• Building Insurance Premium (flats and multi storeys)

• Communal Landscape Maintenance• Stair Lighting (flats and multi storeys)• Water Testing to Communal Water tanks (flats and

multi storeys)• Electricity (multi storeys only) • Lift Maintenance, Lift Telephone (multi storeys only)• Laundry and Caretaking Services including supplies

(multi storeys only)• Communal Repairs (flats and multi storeys)

To enable us to continue to provide the above services, it is important that your factoring invoice is paid on time. All invoices should be paid in full within 28 days of receipt.

If you are experiencing difficulty paying your Factoring Invoice, please contact the Factoring Officer, Rakesh Gupta

It is important to pay your rent on time. We can help if you’re worried about paying your rent.

To stay in a Thistle home, everyone has to pay rent. Your rent pays for the services you receive from us, including the maintenance and management of your home. Paying your rent is your responsibility and if you fail to pay, you risk losing your home.

Our dedicated Rent Housing Officers are here to help you and will discuss and agree payment options with you which meet your individual needs.

Difficulty paying your rent?

If you’re behind with your rent, or worried about your rent payments, you should contact us immediately. We can help.

Call your Housing Officer:Angela Welch, Tracy McLaughlin, 0141 613 2700

Your home is at risk if you do not keep up with your rent payments.

How to Pay your Rent or Factoring AccountsHere are five different ways tenants and owners can make their rent or factoring payments – simply choose which one suits you best:

12345

By Allpay card at one of the Paypoint outlets

By phoning Allpay direct using one of your debit cards

On-Line direct to AllpayOn-Line banking

By posting a cheque made payable to Thistle Housing Association

By contacting your bank or building society to set up a Standing Order



page 7

Housing Officer SupportSince Universal Credit raised its ugly head the Association has endeavoured to give as much information as possible in each Newsletter encouraging tenants to seek assistance from their Housing Officer or the Association’s Welfare Rights Officer if required.

Unfortunately, time and time again Housing Officers are finding it difficult to engage with a percentage of Universal Credit claimants who are in rent arrears. This is very frustrating when assistance can be given that could resolve the matter and, at times, stop any legal action being taken which can cost a tenant the loss of their home.

Universal Credit was created to make claimants responsible for all of their finances, but sometimes this can be too

much for someone due to other underlying problems they may have. Your Housing Officer can visit you at home or you can just come into the office where assistance and advice will be given to you, please do not bury your head in the sand as the Association is aware of the financial difficulties tenants are experiencing due to this change and are here to help.

You are fully in control of your Universal Credit claim and the Association can only help you when you ask us to.

Many people have now moved on to Universal Credit, and the Association can offer advice and assistance in order to make this process as straightforward as possible for our tenants. However, we recognise that there are still many serious issues with UC, and we would therefore encourage anyone who needs help to make an appointment at this office.

Universal Credit is designed to be paid as a single monthly payment rather than weekly or fortnightly. You must have a suitable bank, building society or credit union account to receive the payment. If you are a couple, only one person will receive the single payment.

The Scottish Government has some very limited powers over UC, and has introduced some changes which allow claimants in Scotland a degree of flexibility with their payments. This is known as “Scottish Choices”, and offers the flexibility of:

• being paid Universal Credit twice a month rather than monthly; and

• having Universal Credit housing costs element (rent) being paid directly to your landlord.

When will I get my first payment? Universal Credit is paid monthly in arrears. However, when you first make your claim, you will not receive your initial payment until 5 weeks after that date. You may be offered an advance to “tide you over”, but remember- this is a loan and it will be recovered from subsequent payments, reducing the amount which is paid to you.

What do I need to enable me to make a claim?Generally, claims must be made and maintained online. When you make the claim, you will need to have available:• your correct, up to date monthly

rent figure • your date of entry to your flat/

house• your National Insurance number • details of your bank or post office

account • an email address. You will also

require to be able to access this email account whilst making the claim, as the DWP will send you a code which needs to be entered before you can complete your Universal Credit claim.

It is very important that you have this information ready before you start the claim as you will not be able to complete your claim without it. Any delay may see you losing entitlement to benefit, and backdates are only available in exceptional circumstances. If you need help to make your claim, please contact this office and assistance can be given to make your claim in our office, in complete confidence.

We can help you by providing access to a computer and also assistance completing the online form. We can also offer:• Private interview rooms with

computers• Help getting online and updating

your online journal• Carrying out benefit checksIf you need other assistance, come in and speak to a member of staff and we will be happy to help.

WELFARE BENEFITS



page 8

Free WIFI at Thistle!Come in a use our WIFI to submit your claims

The Scottish Housing Regulator have issued a new publication ‘How we Regulate -Guide for Tenants and Services Users’.

The guide will let tenants and service users know more about:

• who the SHR are and what they do,• what tenants and service users can

expect from their landlord,• how tenants and services users

can find out about their landlord’s performance; and

• how tenants and service users can raise a concern about their landlord.

You can view the guide on the SHR Website www.housingregulator.gov.scot

How we Regulate – Guide for Tenants



page 9

Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 gives everyone a right of access to information held by Scottish public authorities. Under Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 (Designation of Persons as Scottish Public Authorities) Order 2019, Registered Social Landlords such as Thistle Housing Association, have been designated as a public authority to whom the terms of the Act apply with effect from 11 November 2019.

The aim of the Act is to increase openness and transparency by allowing people to access information about how decisions are taken and how public services are delivered.

About Freedom of InformationThe Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 (the Act) requires Scottish public authorities to adopt and maintain a publication scheme which has the approval of the Scottish

Information Commissioner, and publish information in accordance with that scheme.

Authorities are under a legal obligation to:

• publish the classes of information that the authority makes routinely available

• tell the public how to access the information and whether information is available free of charge or on payment

We have adopted the Model Publication Scheme 2018, produced and approved by the Scottish Information Commissioner. The Scheme can also be viewed on the Scottish Information Commissioners’ website

The scheme sets out our commitment to make certain classes of information routinely available, such as policies and procedures, minutes of meetings, annual reports and financial information. We have developed a FOISA & EIR Guide to Information for this purpose, all of which you can access via our website www.thistle-ha.org.uk.

Alongside the Act, the Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004 (the EIRs) provide a separate right of access to the environmental information that we hold. It’s not always easy to know which law applies to which information. You may find this information www.itspublicknowledge.info/ from the Scottish Information Commissioner’s site useful.

The Scottish Information Commissioner’s website also gives a useful overview of Freedom of Information and your rights.

Contact UsRequests can be made in writing, by email, video or audio tape.

If you have any questions or require a copy of the Model Publication Scheme 2018 or the Guide to Information in a different format, please contact:

Daniella Sprott Governance and Corporate Services Manager Thistle Housing Association 26 Glenmore Avenue Toryglen Glasgow G42 0EH tel 0141 613 2700 [email protected]



page 10housing association ltd.


page 10

UC Annual VerificationIf you are currently in receipt of Universal Credit and have been in the Intensive Work Search regime or Light Touch regime for 12 assessment periods, you will be sent a ‘Review your details to-do’and be asked to re-declare your circumstances. If any of the claim details held by the DWP are no longer correct, the system will ask you to report a change of circumstances.

The review will include a deadline explaining that failure to complete the action within 14 days will result in your claim being suspended on the 15th day. You will then be given a further 15 days to update and if you do not complete this the claim will be CLOSED.

If you receive a Review, please do not ignore it, contact your Housing Officer on 0141 613 2700 and make an appointment to call into the office. Your Housing Officer will be able to assist you to complete the Review.

In times of changing health needs some residents require to use Oxygen Therapy at home. Oxygen safety is extremely important and we can help keep you and your family safe.

Fire SafetyOxygen is safe when used properly. When not used properly, it can be dangerous. It will fuel a fire, causing it to start easily and to burn faster and hotter. Sparks and materials that normally would not burn can start a

fire because of the oxygen you use. It is very important to protect yourself, those around you and your home when using oxygen.

If you currently use Oxygen Therapy at home, it is really important that we know about this, we can arrange a Fire Safety Inspection to ensure that you and your family are protected. If you or one of your family currently use Oxygen at home please contact one of our Maintenance Staff on 0141 613 2700 who will arrange to have a Fire Safety Inspection carried out.

Repairs survey prize draw winnersMonth Name Address

June Mr Paton Prospecthill Crescent

July Mrs Yuill Kerrycroy Avenue

August Mrs Christoforou Kerrycroy Avenue

September Mr Marshall Kerrycroy Avenue

Annual Assurance StatementAs a Registered Social Landlord (RSL), Thistle Housing Association was required to submit its first Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) before the end of October 2019.

The Association submitted their Annual Assurance Statement on 11 October 2019, a copy of the statement can be viewed on our website www.thistle-ha.org.

OXYGEN THERAPY USE AT HOME: FIRE SAFETYDo you use oxygen THERAPY at home?

SAFETY ALERT



page 11

Check out all our events inside!

TORYGLEN WINTER SKIP CLEAROUT ......P4-5

HALLOWEEN EVENTS ........................................P6-8GO! SOCIAL EVENTS ..................................................P

9

CHRISTMAS EVENTS.........................................P13-15

TORYGLEN SKIP TORYGLEN TORYGLEN

BIG SKIPBIGBIGBIGBIGBIGCLEAR-OUT!

TORYGLEN TORYGLEN housing association ltd.


TORYGLEN TORYGLEN

AUTUMN/

WINTER

EVENTS 2019/2020

SPONSORED BY

WE

DID

At the start of November, in response to residents requesting

a cleaner Toryglen, we gave you the opportunity to get rid of unwanted items of bulk rubbish by placing eight skips around Toryglen for a weekend. The skip weekend took

place on Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th November,

supported and sponsored by our contractor City Building.

We’re pleased to let you know that this project has been a great success. As well as filling the skips, City Building also removed another 5 vans’ worth of rubbish from next to the skips. Scott Hughes,

Manager at City Building stated “We were delighted to support the residents of Toryglen with the skip weekend. The skips were extremely well used and we hope this has made a difference towards a cleaner Toryglen.”

The survey which we carried out online pleasingly shows that local residents would like this project repeated next year, with the most popular option at present being next spring. Next time we are considering supplying more skips we will be open to suggestions as to where they should be placed. Please let us know your opinion by emailing [email protected] or by telephoning us on: 0141 613 2700.

We received 53 responses from an online survey.Respondents rated the skip weekend as 4.2 out of 5 stars for supporting a cleaner Toryglen75% of respondents said the skip locations were suitable for them

OUR ESTATE

SKIP CLEAROUT“We want a cleaner Toryglen”

A SKIP WEEKEND CLEAROUT

YOU SAID

FEEDBACK FROM SURVEY 4.2 stars out

of 5

How to Stay Safe at ChristmasChristmas is a special time for celebration and should not end in tragedy because of the extra hazards that are present at this time of year.Please take note of the following advice:

Fairy Lights• Check the fuses are the right

type (see the box for the maximum size of fuse you should use).

• If bulbs blow, replace them.• Don’t leave fairy lights on when

you go out or when you go to sleep.

• Don’t let the bulbs touch anything that can burn easily, like paper.

• Don’t overload sockets.

Decorations• Decorations made of light tissue

paper or cardboard burn easily.• Don’t attach them to lights or

heaters.• Don’t put them immediately

above or around the fireplace.• Keep them away from candles.Candles mark special occasions and create a special atmosphere. They

also bring fire into your home. So treat them carefully.

The Do’s and Don’ts when using Candles:• Always put candles on a heat

resistant surface. Be especially careful with night lights and tea lights, which get hot enough to melt plastic. TVs are not fire-resistant objects.

• Put them in a proper holder. Candles need to be held firmly upright by the holder so they won’t fall over. The holder needs to be stable too, so it won’t fall over either.

• Position them away from curtains. And keep them out of draughts.

• Don’t put them under shelves. It’s easy to forget that there’s a lot of heat above a burning candle. If you put it under a shelf or other surface then it can burn the surface. Make sure there’s at least three feet (one metre) between a candle and any surface above it.

• Keep clothes and hair away. If there’s any chance you could lean across a candle and forget it’s there, put it somewhere else.

• Keep children and pets away. Candles should be out of reach of children and pets.

• Keep candles apart. Leave at least four inches (10cm) between two burning candles.

• Take care with scented candles. These kinds of candles turn to liquid to release their fragrance, so put them in a glass or metal holder.

• Don’t move them when they’re burning. Extinguish candles before moving them. Also, don’t let anything fall into the hot wax like match sticks.

• Don’t leave them burning. Extinguish candles before you leave a room. Never go to sleep with a candle still burning. And never leave a burning candle or oil burner in a child’s bedroom.

• Use a snuffer or a spoon to put them out. It’s safer than blowing them, which can send sparks and hot wax flying.

• Double-check they’re out. Candles that have been put out can go on smouldering and start a fire. Make sure they’re completely out

Bulk uplift over the festive seasonBulk uplift arrangements over the festive season…Glasgow City Council has confirmed the arrangements for bulk uplifts of refuse over the Christmas and New Year period as follows:

• There will be no kerbside collections on 25th and 26th December, or 1st and 2nd January

• Residents requiring a bulk uplift should still phone their requests through as normal; the Council will endeavour to have these uplifted within 10-15 days

• Residents who currently have weekly kerbside collections which happen to fall on any of the public

holidays will receive a letter advising them when to place their wheelie bins out at the kerbside

• Residents in flats may experience a slight delay in their normal collections, but this should be minimal.

• It is anticipated that normal services should have resumed by week commencing 13th January, 2020.

As always, these arrangements are subject to change should we experience particularly inclement weather which leads to unexpected delays.



page 12

Are YOU ready for Winter?At this time of year we like to remind you that the low temperatures bring an increased risk of damage to your home and, ultimately, your personal belongings. Taking some basic precautions can help avoid pipes freezing, or worse, bursting with disastrous consequences. Although last winter was mild, previous to that we had some of the worst and longest winters on record. With this in mind, here are some tips for beating the effects of Jack Frost this winter:• Keep this Newsletter handy as it contains all of

the telephone numbers you will need during an emergency;

• While the coldest spells of weather persist, leave your heating switched on – especially during the night. If you have a thermostat for your heating system set it to at least 10 degrees C;

• Take a few minutes to find out where the stopcock is – it’s usually under the sink. If you can’t find it, phone our Property Services section on 0101 613 2700 for help – this should be done before the office closes for the Christmas period

• If you are going away – leave your heating on at a low setting

If you find frozen pipes...Thaw them out slowly by using warm air from a hair dryer or electric fan heater. Alternatively, take cloths that have been heated in hot water and wrap them round the pipes. Turn on your taps – when the water in the pipes thaws this provides a way for the water to escape – this could help to prevent a burst.

If a burst happens...Turn off the stopcock immediately. Fully turn on the taps to drain the system. If possible, carry out a temporary repair to prevent flooding your neighbours. This can be done by simply tightly binding the damaged length of pipe with an old cloth or tape. Phone us as soon as possible for a full

repair to be carried out – this is essential.

If water has penetrated electrical fittings...

Switch off the mains electricity supply. Phone us immediately for assistance.

Thistle tenants can get advice or emergency repairs attended

to outside office hours by telephoning Freefone 0800

783 7937.

With the nights drawing in and winter upon us it is important that you stay safe on your way to and from your house. There are some simple steps you can take while you’re out and about.

• Plan your journey

• Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back

• Carry a mobile phone and make sure it’s charged

• Be aware of your surroundings and look confident about where you’re going

• Personal attack alarms are good to have. Choose a type which continues to sound if you activate and then drop it. These are widely available online and in electrical goods retailers

• When out walking, always attempt to walk facing the traffic so that a car cannot pull up behind you

• Don’t take short cuts through dark alleyways, parks or waste ground

• In a car park, try and choose a well-lit parking space near the exit if available

• On an empty bus, sit near the driver

• When on a night out, stick with your friends and make sure you all get home safe

Please follow these steps and have a safe and enjoyable festive season.

KEEPING SAFE ON THE STREETS



page 13

Building a Stronger Community Thistle Housing is committed to working closely with our residents to provide the best level of service possible. We believe this can only be achieved through active engagement and meaningful communication.

People’s PageCongratulations on the beautiful arrival of HARPER Adamson born on the 28th August 2019, 7lbs 7 ounces. A new resident of Prospecthill Crescent!

Here’s the beautiful Zarah Alison Josephine Aron, born on 19th September 2019. Proud cousins Aimee and Leah show her off! Congratulations to all the family. A new resident for Prospecthill Place!

NEW JOB! One of Toryglen’s dedicated volunteers, CHLOE MCDERMOTT, has landed herself a new job as a Care Assistant. We are all delighted for you Chloe, lots of luck from your Volunteer family x

Chloe said “I’ve really enjoyed being a volunteer. The whole experience, from all the certificates I achieved to supporting the people in my community, I’ve enjoyed it all. Equally I got the support I needed, when I needed it. I’m really happy to have moved into employment, but will continue to help out in my community when I can.”

One of our Corlaich Avenue residents GAIL PHILMINSTER, who was a participant in the ‘Employment’ training course in partnership with the Association, has graduated in Business studies at Glasgow Kelvin College. Well done Gail, we wish you all the best in your future career.

GRADUATION CONGRATS!

NEW TORYGLENNERS!!



page 14

Building a Stronger Community

L KING BACK 2019

The Association has continued to deliver fantastic events and projects over this Summer/ Autumn period, meeting the requests of our residents. Our calendared social events aim to ensure value for money, whilst providing great social events to bring everyone together.

2681 Torygleners attended our events this year, and we have a few events still to go before the end of the year! Also this number does not include our weekly projects that take place in the hall. Thank you to everyone in their contribution towards making Toryglen a better place to live.

Here’s a reminder of all the events this year so far…..

Event Date Residents Participating ANNUAL BURNS SUPPER 25th January 2019 90

EASTER FUN DAY 13th April 2019 650

GREASE MOVIE NIGHT 26th April 2019 40

EASTER KIDS HOLIDAY CLUB April 2019 70

FEEVA ‘Dancing through the Decades’ 21st June 90

GO! SOCIAL AYR BUS TRIP 24th July 2019 70

TORYGLEN KIDS SUMMER CLUB July / August 102 Children attended. (2640 meals were distributed over a 6 week period!)

SUMMER FUN DAY 10th August 2019 552

Mamma Mia Movie Night 23rd August 2019 30

BIG Scottish Breakfast 6th September 35

Halloween GLOW PARTY 30th October 120

PUMPKIN DISPLAY 30/31st October 420

KIDS OCTOBER HOLIDAY CLUB 1 Week October 2019 40 Children attended

ELF WORKSHOP & REINDEER STATION 2nd December 204

RESIDENTS CHRISTMAS LUNCH 4th December 98

THISTLE RESIDENT PANTO TRIP 7th December 70

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS LUNCH 10th December TBC

BRIGHTER FUTURES CHRISTMAS PARTY

10th December TBC

Events and projects continue to be successful with our residents. We continue to work and build on events and projects based on all the feedback or suggestions we receive from the Toryglen community.

We are in the midst of our Christmas Events at the moment! All

photographs and updates of the events will be posted on the website and the Spring Newsletter.

Thanks to all the residents who took part in any or all of the events and to our dedicated volunteers for their continued hard work for their community.

SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

FULL

FULL

SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT



page 15

2019 TORYGLEN EVENTSSUMMER FUN DAY

HALLOWEEN GLOW PARTY



page 16



page 17

PUMPKIN DISPLAY

BIG SCOTTISH BREAKFAST

FEEVA

Most of the photographs of our events can also be found on the community Facebook page

“Cornerstone Community Hall Toryglen”. Any questions or queries about any of our events,

please contact us on: 0141 613 2700 / [email protected]

SKIP EVENT

AYR BUS TRIP

ELF WORKSHOP

L KING AHEADKEEPING YOU INFORMED

FRIDAY 24th January 2020 18:30pm – 23:00

Our legendary annual Burns Supper returns to Cornerstone once again in January!

What’s included?

• Formal address to the haggis• Piping of the haggis• Traditional luxurious three course Burns

Supper• Live music and dance with the much loved

‘Deoch n’ Dorus’ Ceilidh band• £9 per ticket for all Thistle HA tenants and

owners.

Tickets are limited and we are almost at capacity. Please don’t wait to get yourself a ticket to avoid disappointment! Contact: 0141 613 2700 / [email protected]

THISTLE HA ANNUAL BURNS SUPPER EVENT

We are continually researching and considering additional opportunities to connect and communicate to keep everyone informed. We keep residents informed through:

• Cornerstone Community Hall Toryglen FACEBOOK page

• Thistle HA website. Thistle-ha.org.uk

• Thistle HA Newsletter (Spring/Summer/Winter). Distributed in hardcopy to all of the Association’s rented and factored properties. All current newsletters are also available on the website.

• Thistle HA Events Booklet (Spring / Summer & Autumn / Winter). Distributed in hardcopy to all of the Association’s rented and factored properties. All current events booklets are also available on the website. If you require another copy of the booklet, please let us know!



page 18

The newsletter of Thistle Housing Association Summer 2019

Chairperson Update .....................................2Scottish Housing Regulator Update ............2Performance Q4 ...........................................3

Customer Satisfaction ............................p4-9Activities & Events ................................20-22Garden Competition ..................................15

INSIDE:

SAVE the DATE

AGM

21st August 2019

Customer Satisfaction Results See page 4

The newsletter of Thistle Housing Association

Check out all our events inside!

TORYGLEN WINTER SKIP CLEAROUT ......P4-5

HALLOWEEN EVENTS ........................................P6-8GO! SOCIAL EVENTS ..................................................P9

CHRISTMAS EVENTS.........................................P13-15

TORYGLEN SKIP TORYGLEN TORYGLEN

BIG SKIPBIGBIGBIGBIGBIGCLEAR-OUT!

TORYGLEN TORYGLEN housing association ltd.


TORYGLEN TORYGLEN

AUTUMN/

WINTER

EVENTS 2019/2020

SPONSORED BY

The group applied for funding to enable them to provide a party for the ‘Teens of Toryglen’ on Tuesday 10th December 6.00pm – 8.30pm and were successful! DJ, hot buffet and hunners o’ fun has been organised. Pure. Dead. Brilliant.

ALSO………………………………

Toryglen Youth Group BRIGHTER FUTURES have been successful in a bid for funding to make a short film next year! They are currently working on the development of the film which will be scripted, filmed,

presented and edited by the BRIGHTER FUTURES group. The film will be based in Toryglen, about Toryglen and living as a young adult in Toryglen.

The film will be showcased to the community in the spring at Cornerstone Hall. Keep your eyes peeled!

Well done to all the young adults and their youth leader Liam McCusker for all their hard work and dedication thus far to the project.

Interested? Contact Community Team: 0141 613 2700 / [email protected]

CLASS ACT FROM BRIGHTER FUTURES

WEE SLEEP OUT!BRIGHTER FUTURES, our youth group, have been raising funds for the homeless charity Social Bite, through a sponsored sleep out in the Cornerstone Hall on Saturday 7th December. We salute their commitment and consideration to others, supporting great causes whilst having some fun!

TEEN CHRISTMAS PARTY



page 19





page 20

Cornerstone Community Hall

Every Project Cost TimeMondays (Term Time)

Go! Social Toryglen Tigers Drop-in Primary school play group Age 5 – 11Supervised play with Glasgow Life.Snacks and drinks included

FREE 15:30 - 17:30

Monday Go! Social Exercise ClassDirected by what YOU want!Let our instructors take you to a higher level of fitness and wellbeing. (Now CLOSED until January)

FREE 12:45 - 13:45

Tuesday Brighter Futures Youth group for young people (Age 10-18 years) who want to make the decisions. Community achievement, organising events, making a difference and having fun! **MUST BE REGISTERED**

FREE 18:00 - 20:00

Wednesday Go! Craft & SewDrop in for those who want to learn and participate in personal or community projects.Newbies and ‘dab-hands’ welcome. Tea & Coffee included

FREE 12:30 - 14:30

Thursday Go! Social Exercise ClassDirected by what YOU want!.Let our instructors take you to a higher level of fitness and wellbeing. Finishes on Dec 12th for Christmas and returns first week in January 9th 2020.FREE!!

FREE 18:00 - 19:00

Thursday Go! Social Blether CaféEvery Thursday 11:00 – 14:00Come along for some FREE lunch, FREE tea, and a ‘blether’. CLOSED from 11th Dec (Café Christmas Lunch 10th Dec) for Christmas. Reopens 9th January 2020)All food and drink must be consumed on the premises.

FREE 11:00 - 14:00

Friday Go! Social Toryglen TiddlersToddler and Carer group. All pre-school children, parents and carers welcome. Snacks and drinks included. CLOSED after 14th December for Christmas. Reopens January 10th 2020.FREE!!

FREE 10:00 - 12:00

Friday Go! BingoLast Friday of the month Bingo (mostly last Friday)An opportunity to socialise in the evening while winning great prizes!Fri Dec 13th • Then back to last Friday of the month

50p Entry

£5.00 Books

19:00 - 21:00



Our promoted Go! Social project commenced in January of this year. We are aiming to continue all the projects at the request and need of the community.

The project is currently delivering the following in Cornerstone Hall for a period of 12 months with the aim to increase the overall wellbeing of residents in Toryglen. Here’s what’s on:





page 21

Cornerstone Community Hall

Date Event Time

Mon 10th Feb Tues 11th Feb Wed 12th Feb

Kids’ Holiday Club For all primary school kids 11:00 - 14:00

April (X2 weeks)

Kids’ Holiday Club For all primary school kidsTo Be confirmed…..

TBC

July/August (X6 Weeks)


TBC

October (X1 Week)

Kid’s Holiday Club For all primary school kidsTo Be confirmed…..

TBC

Feb(X3 days)


TBC

Should you have any questions regarding the Kids’ Holiday Club, please contact the Community Development Team: 0141 613 2700 • [email protected]

Thistle HA has been working in successful partnership with GCC and Jeely Piece to deliver the FREE Kids’ Toryglen Holiday Club. The demand for the club has been extremely high and we have tried our best to accommodate as many children as we can. Funding runs until Feb 2020. We will apply for funding in 2020 to continue the Toryglen Kids Club next year. We will keep you updated if successful.

Indoor and outdoor activities to keep all children entertained. Younger siblings welcome with parental supervision. Snacks, Lunch and drinks are provided FREE.

Toryglen Kids Holiday Club



page 22

AT TORYGLEN COMMUNITY BASE179 PROSPECTHILL CIRCUSTORYGLEN, GLASGOW G42 0LA

Signposting Toryglen Support Services

GET OUT AND TAKE PART!!!COME AND TRY ACTIVITIES WITH TEA, COFFEE, BISCUITS AND A BLETHER● Get out the house● Meet new people● Take part in fun games and activities

Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a Blether included

GEOFF SHAW COMMUNITY CENTRE 25 Kerrylamont Ave, Glasgow G42 0DN Tel: 0141 647 0969 For more information contact [email protected]

Only £2 per session

(first session free with this flier)

Tuesdays 11am -

12.30pm

• Open / Drop In Sessions • Mini's Session (4 - 8 years)• Cubs Session (8 - 11 years)• Box Fit (any ages) • Woman’s Only Session Like us on Facebook or contact us on [email protected]

BOXING & FITNESS FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES & ABILITIES;

A child centred project for families

to enjoy!

t: 0141 429 8139 e: [email protected]@gogigglengrow www.gigglengrow.org

DAY PLACE TIME

Monday Clincarthill Parish Church, 1220 Cathcart Rd, Glasgow G42 9EU 1.00-2.30

Tuesday Toryglen Community Hall, 199 Prospecthill Circus, Glasgow G42 0LA 1.00-2.30

Thursday T.A.S.K Childcare Services, 347 Caledonia Road, Gorbals, Glasgow G5 0JY 10.00-11.30

Thursday Castlemilk Community Centre, 121 Castlemilk Drive, Glasgow G45 9UG 1.00-2.30

For some fun Move Dance Go sessions! Starting the week beginning 16th September 2019.These sessions take place on a weekly basis.



page 23

13 million people live below the poverty line in the UK.

Thistle Housing Association has been collecting donations of food which we have passed onto the Glasgow South East Foodbank to help people in the local area who are faced with a crisis.

Glasgow South East Foodbank is one of over 400 foodbanks providing emergency food to people in crisis. It provides a minimum of three days’ emergency food and support to

people in crisis; this is direct help to people who could be living next to you.

The Toryglen residents have been very generous and donated a vast amount of food; however, we have noticed that donations have fallen since the turn of the year.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every resident who took the time and handed donations of food, but would like to remind you

that the crisis is still here and we are continuing our collections. We can’t do it without your help!

You can hand your donations into the office any weekday between 9am and 5pm (4.30pm on a Friday). Thank you!

In partnership with Fareshare, FREE sanitary products are available from our reception accessible bathroom. In addition, all Cornerstone Community Hall toilets also stock free sanitary products. Please utilise and take what you need for yourself and your family.

Toryglen Community Council

FREE sanitary products

TORYGLEN...please continue to help

Visitors WelcomeDiscussing news, views

and community issues



page 24

OFFICE OPENING HOURS

Monday 9:00am – 5:00pm

Tuesday 9:00am – 5:00pm

Wednesday 9:00am – 5:00pm

Thursday 9:00am – 5:00pm

Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm

Please note

Switchboard

operates from

08:30am

Useful NumbersThistle Main Switchboard 0141 613 2700

Thistle Out of Office Hours Repairs 0800 783 7937 (freefone)

Police 101

NHS 24 111

Gas Emergencies 0800 111 999 (freefone)

Cleansing Department (Bulk) 0141 287 9700

Environmental Health 0845 270 1558

Pest Control 0845 270 1558

Stair Lighting 0800 595 595 (freefone)

Street Lighting 0800 373 635 (freefone)

Councillors’ SurgeriesCouncillor Anna Richardson

Last Monday of the month. 6pmMount Florida Primary School, 1127 Cathcart Road.

Councillor Susan Aitken

2nd Monday of the month. 6pmGeoff Shaw Community Centre, 25 Kerrylamont Avenue

4th Tuesday of the month. 6.00pm.Langside Library, 2 Sinclair Drive

Councillor Archie Graham

1st Tuesday of the month. 6pmKing’s Park Primary School, 44 Kingsbridge Drive, G44 4JS

2nd Saturday of the month. 11amLangside Library, 2 Sinclair Drive, G42 9QE.

4th Tuesday of the month. 6pmSt Brigis’s Primary School, 4 Glenmore Avenue, G42 0EH.

Councillor Tanya Wisely

First Saturday of the month. 11.00am - 12 noon Langside Library, 2 Sinclair Drive.

Second Friday of the month. 9am - 10amClincarthill Church, 1220 Cathcart Road

Third Monday of the month. 7.30pm - 8.30pmToryglen Community Hall, 199 Prospecthill Circus.

Thistle Housing Association Ltd, 26 Glenmore Avenue, Glasgow, G42 0EH. Telephone: 0141 613 2700 Fax: 0141 613 2727 Email: [email protected]

Documents

OPENING TIMES AND NEW YEAR CHRISTMAS Monday 6th … · Gross Factoring Arrears as % of gross factoring income 9.51% 9.62% COMPLAINTS % of 1st stage non equalities complaints responded