riday 19th & Monday 22nd April Monday 6th May Go! Social ... · Factoring housing association ltd. developing a better community page 6 The invoice the Association issues for Factoring

The newsletter of Thistle Housing Association Spring 2019

Scottish Housing Regulation Update .........p3

Performance ...............................................p5

Factoring .....................................................p6

Universal Credit ...........................................p7

Go Social! ................................................ p16

Kids Holiday Clubs ................................... p18

INSIDE:

OFFICE

CLOSED

• Friday 19th & Monday 22nd April

• Monday 6th M

ay

• Friday 24th & Monday 27th M

ay

Go! Social Project

housing association ltd.

developing abetter community

page 2

Welcome to the Spring Edition of Thistle News.

It’s been a busy period for the Management Committee and staff, who have been working hard on developing the plans required to ensure that the Association meets the requirements of the Regulation Plan issued by the Scottish Housing Regulator.

We continue to engage positively with the SHR who published an updated Regulation Plan in February 2019, this plan sees the Association remain on High Engagement. You can read the full Regulation Plan by visiting the SHR Website on www.scottishhousingregulator.gov.uk.

High Engagement was expected by Committee and Staff as we still have some challenges to work through and improvements to make to ensure the Association is fully compliant.

One of the main focusses for the team has been negotiating a new funding package that will secure the Association’s future. I am happy to report that we are in the final stages of this process and it is hoped that the package will be finalised and in place sometime in April 2019.

Operationally, we continue to provide a comprehensive range of services to you, our customers. I would like to thank all of you who afforded us some of your time when you took part in our Customer Satisfaction Survey. At the last count over 900 of our customers had participated, which is an excellent response, so thank you; your opinions not only help us to measure your satisfaction with the services we provide, but assist us to shape our services in the future. The complete results of

the Customer Satisfaction Survey will be published in our Summer edition of Thistle News.

I hope you enjoy reading our Spring Newsletter and I look forward to updating you on future developments.

Working Together, Working for ToryglenA message from the Chairperson

Brenda Wilson

The Management Committee and staff would like to wish Kathy Peden a long and happy retirement.

Kathy has looked after the community rooms and closes in our Kerrylamont Complex since the early 2000s and will be missed by staff and tenants alike.

Good luck Kathy.

Good Luck in Your Retirement



page 3

As you are aware, the Scottish Housing Regulator used its statutory powers in late August 2018, to appoint five members to Thistle’s governing body and myself as a statutory manager.

The Regulators assessment is that Thistle is not compliant with the Regulatory Standards of Governance and Financial Management. In particular the review found that the governing body was unable to demonstrate that it has the skills and knowledge to be effective and that there were serious weaknesses in Thistle’s openness and communications with its tenants and service users.

Thistle appealed against the Regulators use of its statutory powers on the 5 November 2018. The Appeal Panel upheld the decision on 3 December 2019.

The Regulator asked Thistle to demonstrate how it intends to address the weaknesses in its leadership and capacity to enable it to deliver and embed the necessary improvements required to achieve compliance with the Regulatory Standards of Governance and Financial Management. Thistle was asked to provide a plan to address this by the end of February 2019.

The Management Committee responded to the Regulator stating that it intended to undertake an appraisal of all Committee Members to ensure they had the skills necessary to lead and govern the organisation and in particular, achieve compliance with the Regulatory Standards of Governance and Financial

The Scottish Housing Regulator established the Panel in 2013 to engage effectively and directly with tenants and other service users. The Panel helps them hear about views, experiences and service priorities.

Topics covered by the Panel so far include:

Mike HanrahanStatutory Manager at Thistle Housing Association

National Panel of Tenants and Service Users

Management. This work aims to be complete by the 30 April 2019.

Also underway is a review of the staffing structure with the aim of bringing in someone with the skills to manage the maintenance programmes Thistle has to achieve over the coming years. Another priority is to enhance Thistle’s understanding of the Regulatory requirements to ensure and maintain compliance with these standards.

To ensure that Thistle has the financial capacity to deliver its maintenance and service delivery plans it has had

to renegotiate its borrowing. This is nearing completion and will ensure that Thistle has the financial capacity to deliver its plans.

The Regulator has decided to extend the appointment of the five appointees and my role until at least the end of April 2019 to provide Thistle with an opportunity to develop the plan and allow the Regulator to consider this plan.

Scottish Housing Regulator Update

• rent affordability• service quality• value for money• performance reporting

• experiences of using homelessness services

• antisocial behaviour• tenant safety

The panel currently has around 415 members. It has a broad membership, and almost three- quarters of Panel members are not members of Registered Tenant Organisations.

The Scottish Housing Regulator is keen to recruit new members to this panel. If this is something that interests you, more information on the panel and how to join can be found on the Scottish Housing Regulator’s website: [email protected]



page 4

The rent increase consultation period ran from 1 December 2018 until 20 January 2019, providing tenants with a number of ways to become involved in the consultation process. This was to encourage as many tenants as possible to take part. The opportunities provided for tenants to participate in the consultation were:

• Completing the Questionnaire included in the December Newsletter

• By email to the Association

• During attendance at the Christmas activities

• Attending one of the arranged consultation events

• Afternoon Tea on 12 December 2018

• Coffee Morning on 16 January 2019

• By calling into the office

• Participating in our door to door surveys

• Participating in our telephone surveys

Consultation ResultsA total of 118 (12.3%) tenants participated in the consultation and completed questionnaires. These tenants’ views were gathered across all consultation methods provided with the telephone survey proving the most successful (59% of responses). This is a significant increase in responses when compared to the 29 (3%) tenants who participated last year.

Option 1• 47 (40%) of respondents preferred

Option 1 - an increase of 3.3%. A summary of comments given are noted below:

• 14 tenants would face financial difficulties if the increase was any higher

• 2 tenants believed that the rent is already too high

• 2 tenants would like an improvement in service for the 3.3%

Option 271 (60%) respondents selected Option 2 - an increase of 4.3%. The comments appending their selection were:

• 5 tenants would appreciate an improvement to back courts

• 1 tenant requested a new secured entry

• 20 tenants would welcome a Close Cleaning service

• 15 tenants mentioned an improvement to the cleanliness of the street, general estate tidy up, dog fouling

• 10 tenants mentioned cleaning of the back court bin stores

• 3 tenants advised that an Estate Caretaker would be beneficial

The results were presented to the Management Committee on 30 January 2019. The Committee unanimously approved Option 2, an increase of the lower percentage of 3.3%.

The Management Committee felt strongly that, given the comments made in relation to affordability, to increase rents by 4.4% at this time would not be acceptable and could be unaffordable for some tenants.

A number of tenants also provided detailed comments as noted above; these comments mirror the views expressed by tenants at the Community Consultation event held last July. The Association will include all of these comments when establishing the community plan going forward.

You will have received the Rent Increase notification letter by now. If you have any questions, please contact your Housing Officer on 0141 613 2700.

If you are in receipt of Housing Benefit, the Association has provided them with details of the rent increase. However, if you are in receipt of Universal Credit, you need to update your Journal yourself. Details of how you can do this are included on page 7 of this Newsletter.

3.3% Rent Increase Approved



page 5

Performance at 31 December 2018Target

2018/19Achieved

June 2018Achieved Sep 2018

Achieved Dec 2018

Gross rent arrears as a %age of Gross rental income 3.5% 3.1% 1.9% 2.4%

Non technical arrears as a %age of Gross rental income 1.8% 2.1% 1.0% 1.2%

Technical Arrears as a %age of Gross rental income 1.7% 1.0% 0.9% 1.7%

Void rent loss as a % age of gross rental income 0.17% 0.07% 0.02% 0.07%

Average re-let for voids 10 days 21 days 3 days 5.3 days

%age of tenancies sustained (where date of entry in last 12 months) 100% 100% 83.3% 98.4%

Average time taken to complete emergency repairs 3 hours 2 hours 1 hour 39 min

1 hour 40 min

Average time taken to complete non-emergency repairs 5 days 2.6 days 2.9 days 2.1 days

%age of reactive repairs carried out right first time 95% 100% 100% 99%

%age of Gas Services completed within 12 months of previous 100% 100% 100% 100%

How do we compare to other Housing Associations?Performance at end of Quarter 3 – 31 December 2018 Thistle HA Housing Association Group Average

Rent Arrears 2.4% 3.91%

Average Time Taken to relet a house 5.3 days 20.89 days

Average Time Taken to complete a non-emergency repair 2.1 days 3.38 days

Customer Satisfaction Survey Thank you to all of our customers who have participated in the Customer Satisfaction Survey carried out by Research Resource. Over 900 customers have taken part so a far, which is an excellent response.

The full results of the survey will be published in the Summer edition of the Newsletter.

Performance Quarter 3

Factoring



page 6

The invoice the Association issues for Factoring Charges is not associated with any other works the association carry out on behalf of owner occupiers. 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

Watertanks (flats and multi storeys)• Common Electricity charges• 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

The importance of paying your factoring invoices

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 WelchTracy 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:

• By Allpay card at one of the Paypoint outlets• By phoning Allpay direct using one of your debit cards• On-Line direct to Allpay• On-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

THE IMPORTANCE OF PAYING YOUR RENT



page 7

Many of our tenants will have now moved onto Universal Credit. We want to ensure our residents are getting the best support they can to manage their money effectively.

Universal Credit was fully introduced in the Glasgow area on 26th September 2018 and we are here to help. Any tenant submitting a new claim, or making a change to a current claim, will now be moved to Universal Credit.

THA 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 checks

If you need other assistance, come in and speak to a member of staff and we will be happy to help.

Universal Credit

If you are on Universal Credit, you must let the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) know about your annual rent increase. You should do this by putting the new figure into your online journal. You can only do this from the date your rent rise comes into effect – for all of our tenants this is 28 March 2019.

We can’t tell the DWP about your rent increase on your behalf, but if you need help with your journal please speak to a member of the housing management team.

If you don’t tell the DWP about your rent increase, your Universal Credit will not be increased to cover your new rent.

See below our step-by-step guide on how to update your online journal with your rent changes.

How to update your online journal -

Sign in to your Universal Credit online journal at www.universal-credit.service.gov.uk/sign-in and follow these simple steps:

• Click on ‘Report a change of circumstances’

• You will see a message asking ‘What do you want to tell us about?’

• Click ‘Where you live and what it costs’

• Click the green ‘Change’ button

• Click ‘Something else’ from the two options

• Add the date when you want your rent change to start

• Add your new rent charge

• You will get a link from your job coach to upload a copy of your rent increase letter.

• IT access with assistance is available at our office, please contact your Housing Officer to arrange an appointment to call in.

Rent Increase – Urgent Please do not ignore

UPDATE

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

NOTICE TO TENANTS ALREADY IN RECEIPT OF UNIVERSAL CREDIT



page 8

Recycling ServicesA number of residents have approached the Association regarding the use of recycling bins. These bins are owned and emptied by Glasgow City Council, there is information about your specific collection days available on their website – www.glasgow.gov.uk.

Bins at your property should be used in the following way;

• BLUE BINS should be used for paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, tins and cans only.

• GREY FOOD WASTE BINS should only be used for unused food. All packaging should be removed.

• BROWN BINS should only be used for compostable garden waste. Twigs and branches should be cut into lengths to fit in your bin.

• PURPLE BINS are for glass bottles and jars only.

Any bins which are contaminated may not be uplifted by GCC and could therefore present a risk to the health of all residents. Please separate your waste and help keep your area as clean and tidy as possible.

We all want to ensure our area is kept as clean as it can be for the benefit of everyone in the community, so please keep a note of the GCC Environmental Task Force contact details and report to them any environmental issue. Collectively, we can make a difference.

OUR ESTATE Thistle Housing Association has been carrying out work to a number of bin stores. This significant investment has been made by the Association in order to make our bin stores ready for the imminent arrival of new, larger capacity bins.

We are awaiting final dates from GCC for delivery of the new bins. This is expected to happen Summer 2019.

BIN REPLACEMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE



page 9

An issue which is of great concern to Thistle Housing Association and residents alike is fly tipping.

Glasgow city Council has an arrangement in place to pick up bulk items once a week from all of our tenemental properties.

Monday• Prospecthill Road (odd numbers)• Prospecthill Crescent• Prospecthill PlaceThursday• Prospecthill Road (evens) and all

roads behind

All bulk waste items should be placed on the pavement before 7.00am on your uplift day, or preferably the night before. Any items placed on the pavement at other times will be viewed as fly-tipping and could be subject to a fine imposed by Glasgow City Council.

If you live in a main door property, please contact Glasgow City Council directly on 0141 287 9700. Alternatively, you can make contact using the MyGlasgow app or via Facebook or Twitter.

If you are unsure of the arrangements for your particular address, please have a look at www.glasgow.gov.uk or give us a call.

What is Anti-Social Behaviour? Anti-social behaviour is any act which causes alarm and distress to someone else. It can vary from minor noise disturbances to serious criminal activity.

Thistle Housing Association is committed to helping ensure a safe and secure environment for all residents. An important part of this commitment is to address any anti-social issues which are brought to our attention.

Anti-social behaviour includes, but is not limited to, the following;

• Noise disturbances (such as loud music, shouting, etc.)

• Harassment• Violence or threats of violence• Verbal abuse• Vandalism/graffiti• Drug dealing

• Violence, suspected drug dealing and serious harassment should be reported to the police in the first instance.

What is not Anti-Social Behaviour?There are some types of behaviour that we do not class as anti-social and therefore may not be investigated in the same way. For example;

• Children playing in the street or communal areas (unless they are causing damage to property)

• Young people gathering socially (unless they are swearing or being intimidating to neighbours)

• Being unable to park outside your own home

• DIY and car repairs (unless they are taking place late at night or early in the morning)

• Civil disputes between neighbours e.g. fence boundaries

Whilst these issues may not be dealt with as anti-social behaviour, we are happy to give advice or pass information on to another agency (e.g. police or Glasgow City Council)

How to Report Anti-Social BehaviourThere are a number of different ways that anti-social behaviour can be reported dependant on type and severity;

• By writing to, phoning or emailing Thistle Housing Association

• By phoning Police Scotland on 101 or 999

• By contacting Glasgow City Council’s Noise Team on 0141 287 6688 (between 5pm and 3am)

Any issues or complaints can be made anonymously to any of the above contacts. If you are unsure, please let us know and a member of our housing management team will be happy to give advice.

Anti-Social Behaviour

Fly Tipping in Toryglen



page 10

Annual Gas Servicing ContractYour Gas Cooker – Your responsibilityAs you will be aware, the association carry out a service on the gas appliances in your home on an annual basis.

This service only includes appliances that are owned or adopted by the Association such as gas boilers and gas fires.

If you choose to have a gas cooker installed in your home, this is your responsibility. The Association will not carry out a service of your cooker. The engineer will visually check the cooker and highlight any issues they find, but the safety of your cooker is your responsibility.

If you have any concerns regarding gas appliances in your home please call our Maintenance Team.

Repairs prize drawDecember Mr & Mrs McCann - Edinbeg Avenue

January Mr Alistair Gibb - Curtis Avenue

February Mrs Lang - Ardnahoe Avenue

We are holding our annual Garden Competition again this year. Toryglen has many green fingered residents. We like to show our appreciation for all the effort that goes into making our Community beautiful. So get on your gardening gloves and fill up your watering can.

The competition for both categories will be judged on:

• Cleanliness• Attention to detail• Great use of space• Individual style and creativity

We look forward to choosing the winners!

Garden £100.00 voucherBalconies £50.00 voucher

MAINTENANCE SECTIONFire Safety Legislation – Smoke Detectors

The law is changing in relation to the Smoke Detection systems installed in rented homes. All of our tenants’ homes currently have smoke detectors installed; however, the new laws require the Association to link, change or add to these systems.

The Association are currently establishing a contract for these works to be carried out and we will be in touch over the next few months to explain exactly what work we need to do in your home, when this will take place and how long it will take.

This is for information only, you do not require to do anything at this time.

Spring Competition Time!Garden SafetyAs an Association, we encourage all residents to care for and be proud of their gardens. However we request any substantial works undertaken to your garden follow the proper procedures and protocol in the interest of all resident safety. In most properties all of the main gas and electrical pipes run under the front gardens. It is therefore essential that reputable companies are used and correct permission obtained.



page 11

We believe ‘knowing me and knowing you’ will help us engage and interact with our residents more personally. And part of getting to know you better is to hear about all the special times in your busy lives and all the achievements. We want to help you celebrate all the milestones and big things in your lives with your community, whether it’s a special birthday, anniversary, new job, christening or engagement, we’d like to hear about it all.

We have dedicated a ‘PEOPLE’S PAGE’ for our Newsletter, to fill with all your great news.

Our newsletters currently go out in Spring, Summer and Winter.

Do you have an announcement or a celebration you would like to put in one of our Newsletters with a photograph? If so here’s what to do:

Send Us:

• Name of person who is celebrating• Reason for celebration• Message • Contact details of person sending

in the info• Any relevant photograph

Please forward details and picture to one of the following:

[email protected] what’sapp: 07519104656 or call community development team on 0141 613 2700

PEOPLES PAGE TORYGLEN... please continue to help13 million people live below the poverty line in the UK

THA 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.

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!

Building a Stronger Community

Happy 66th Birthday to Malcolm MacphersonHappy Birthday Malky you auld bird magnet! From all your pals at Kerrylamont and the café.

We delivered more fantastic events over the Festive period, then again at the very start of 2019.

A quick recap of all the events and projects over the Winter period:

• ‘Home Alone’ Movie Night• Over 55’s Christmas Luncheon

• Elf Workshop and Santa’s grotto• ‘The Magical Adventures of Cinderella’ panto trip• Burns Supper & Ceilidh• Go! Social project• Kids February Holiday Club

Thanks to all the residents who took part!

L KING BACKSOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

SOLD OUTSOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT



page 12



page 13



page 14

We are continually researching and considering additional opportunities to connect and communicate with residents. We have recently developed a FB page (Insert Facebook app) dedicated to everything taking place in the ‘Cornerstone Community Hall Toryglen’. The page will be constantly updated with all the projects and scheduled events throughout the year. From our kids’ holiday club, the Go! Social projects, to lots of social nights, make sure you like the page so you never miss out.

Like, share. Be part of your community.

L KING AHEAD

A quick peek at all our Spring / Summer Events!

Cornerstone Community Hall

Date Event Cost Time

Saturday 13th April

Easter Fun Day Fun Day for all the family

FREE 12:00 – 16:00

Friday 26th April

“Grease” Classic Movie & American Diner FoodAdults only

18:30 – 21:00

Friday 21st June

Dancing Through the Decades‘FEEVA’ entertainment tribute groupAdults only

19:30 – 00:00

Saturday 10th August

Summer Fun Day Fun Day for all the family

FREE 12:00 – 16:00

Friday 23rd August

“Mamma Mia” Classic Movie & Curry Night

18:30 – 21:00

Friday 6th September

Big Scottish Breakfast STV Charity Event

Donation only

10:00 – 12:30

£2Ticketed

Event

£2Ticketed

Event

£5Ticketed

Event

Ticketed Event

We also recently delivered our Spring/Summer Events guide to your door, informing everyone of all the things we had for the Community to look forward to. Here’s a quick reminder:

| 1T: 0141 613 2700 E: [email protected] Pop into: Thistle HA reception





SPRING/

SUMMER

EVENTS 2019

Fire Brigade

Inflatables

Easter animal farm

Face painting

Easter Bunny

Giveaways

Carnival food and drinks

& LOTS MORE!

Mascots

Carnival Carnival

EASTERFUN DAY!

TORYGLEN COMMUNITY

SATURDAY13th APRIL 12 – 4pm

Easter Easter Easter Easter animal farmanimal farmanimal farmanimal farm

InflatablesInflatablesInflatablesInflatablesdrinksdrinks

GiveawaysGiveawaysGiveawaysGiveaways

paintingpaintingpainting BrigadeBrigadeBrigadeBrigade

InflatablesInflatablesInflatablesInflatables Carnival Carnival Carnival

Easter Bunny Easter Bunny Easter Bunny Easter Bunny

Face Fire Fire Fire

MascotsMascotsMascotsMascotsMascotsMascots

FREEEVENT!

facebook.com/

Cornerstone Community Hall page

Most events are ticketed and on sale now! Please forward all queries regarding events and projects to: Community Development Team 0141 613 2700 [email protected]



page 15



A quick peek at all our Spring / Summer Events!

Date Event Cost Time

Monday Go! Social Toryglen Tigers (Term Time only) Drop-in Primary school youth group Age 5 – 11Activities delivered by the infamous Jeely Piece ClubSnacks and drinks included

FREE 16:00 – 18:00

Monday Go! Social Exercise ClassExercise classes for every level of fitness. Let our instructors take you to a higher level of fitness and wellbeing.

FREE 12:45 – 13:45

Thursday Go! Social Exercise ClassExercise classes for every level of fitness. Let our instructors take you to a higher level of fitness and wellbeing.

FREE 18:00 – 19:00

Thursday Go! Social Blether CaféChatty community CaféEvery Thursday 11:00 – 14:00Come along for some FREE lunch, and a blether. (Food must be consumed in 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.

FREE 10:00 – 12:00

“I’ve cancelled my gym membership since coming to the exercise classes, they’re just round the corner, it’s so

convenient for me”

“I didn’t exercise before. Coming along to my local hall with my neighbours is great fun. I’m enjoying it so much”

“My daughter loves the

afterschool drop in. She has

made new friends as well as

playing with her school pals.

She looks forward to it every

week”

“I always choose the soup at the café. Proper home-made. It’s great to offer a wee free lunch for people. Personally I come mainly for the banter!”

“We volunteer to support the

Toryglen Tiddlers’ group. We

welcome everyone and make it as

happy a place for all the tiddlers and

their carers”

“I’ve been volunteering at the café along with

others. The best part is everyone coming

along for a chat. We laugh constantly”

Our promoted Go! Social project, which commenced January in this year, is proving to be a HIT in the Community. This project, which was proposed as a result of the Community Consultation Feedback, aims to reduce isolation and increase social inclusion as well as improving levels of overall health for everyone in Toryglen.

The “Go! Social” project is currently delivering the following in Cornerstone Hall for a period of 12 months. With something for everyone, the Go! Social project is getting busier every week. Here’s what’s on:



page 16

Introducing the CaféJillian, Claire, Vikki and LauraWe’re Jillian, Claire, Vikki and Laura. We volunteer for the Community Blether Café. We all enjoy volunteering at the Blether. It’s not been that long since it started, but it’s turned into a busy wee afternoon every Thursday. All the food is cooked from scratch. The lunch is enjoyed by everyone who comes along, but mainly we’re all there to make it a positive and welcoming place for everyone to come to and have a chat.

We work hard and give up our time to make sure the project is the best it can be, the fact it’s for our own community makes us work all the harder.

JimI’m Mr Milliken. Jim to most folk. I heard about the café through the housing newsletter and posters put up in my close. I think I’ve been to the café most weeks, if not all. The girls, which most are volunteers, look after every single person that comes through the door. Nothings a bother. They also make the best home-made soup. I swear it’s just like my mothers’ back in the day. I come along to have a catch up with some neighbours and have met some new faces. I think it’s a brilliant project for the community, for anyone to come along to, get out the house and enjoy company and some great food, for free too, it’s a great idea.

Thanks to Cathy Pedan, one of our own Toryglen residents and

dedicated home-made scone maker! Too kind as always, Cathy.

Toryglen TigersColleenI’m Colleen, a Jeely Piece play lead. We work with Thistle to deliver the Toryglen Tigers on a Monday night 4-6pm. It’s super busy! The kids are great and are having a whale of a time. We concentrate on having outdoor play when the weather allows, and the kids love the big hall for games and play when the weather isn’t so great.

It’s great to watch the kids develop more confidence whilst making lots of new friends.

Louis, 10I come every week to Tigers. It’s brilliant. I like that there’s always lots of different activities and things to do. I like helping out as well with all the activities. It’s lots of fun.

Toryglen TiddlersKatie / Lorna - Volunteers We approached Thistle over a year ago, and had a chat about our enthusiasm to bring a toddler group to the hall. By luck, Thistle were already looking into this. So after many more chats and lots of hard work we are here, as volunteers, to support the Baby and Toddler group be, well brilliant. We make a real effort with activities for the kids and their carers every week, and they love it. We’re only a few weeks into the group starting, and it feels like we have been going forever. It’s lovely to see it thrive. We enjoy it enormously.

At all times we try to ensure everyone feels welcome and that it is a positive, happy space for anyone who comes through the door.



page 17

Introducing the CaféChloe - Mum to Ellie 2The Go! Social Tiddlers is fantastic. Ellie loves it, we’re here every week. There’s plenty of toys and activities for the kids all the time. As a mum, I really appreciate having this on my doorstep. It’s a great way to get to know other mums and people in my area who have kids the same age. It’s just a brilliant group that’s run really well.

Exercise classesSharon Gibb“I’ve been getting people fit all around Glasgow for a good few years now. My aim is to get people fitter and healthier and make them feel good about themselves.

I do lots of different fitness in my class, from dance, Zumba right through to aerobics. Exercising can seem tough when you haven’t done it for a while, or sometimes when it’s a new class you haven’t tried before. But I always encourage people to come along and try it, or even come along just to sit in for a while to see if it’s for them. Most of the time I find when someone realises they can be themselves and feel relaxed, they continue to come back time and time again.

I love working in the community because I love bringing people together. People make friends for life through community events like this and that that makes me happy.”

Lisa“I live and work in Toryglen since day dot.

Even though I go to the gym, I wanted to try the classes here as it was so convenient being round the corner. I come on my lunch break from work on a Monday, but also come on the Thursday after work. I love coming to both classes, the main reason is that I’m not intimidated. At the gym it can be really busy and I’m not that comfortable there. But here, it’s great. It’s a varied group of people, with different fitness levels. The classes are a bit different every week to mix it up and the instructors are brilliant. We just work together to be fitter and have a laugh at the same time.”

The Association would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to all our amazing volunteers who have really gone above and beyond in supporting our Community work. Without your dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to making a real difference, the Go! Social project wouldn’t be as successful as it is. Well done.

Congratulations to all our volunteers, who all passed the Food Safety and Health & Safety course - all done in their own time for the benefit of Toryglen community projects.

Thank YouHelping oot!

With so much going on and so many social events for the Community, we always welcome anyone who would like to get involved. Whether you would like the opportunity to develop.

• New skills• Development and

Training

• Experience• Confidence• New friendships

Or simply want to be involved in making your community thrive, we would love to hear from you. Whatever you are comfortable doing, we have a space for you.

Be Involved…. Be a Volunteer Chatting

Cleaning

Cooking



page 18

Toryglen Kids Holiday Club

Should you have any questions regarding the Kids Holliday Club, please contact the Community Development Team:

0141 613 2700 [email protected]

Date Event Time

Monday 1st April

2 weeks

Kids’ Holiday Club - For all primary school kidsMon / Tues / Wed / Fri1.04.19 – 12.04.19

11:00 – 14:00

Monday 1st July

6 Weeks


11:00 - 14:00

Monday 14th October

1 week


11:00 – 14:00

“It’s great to have a fun focus to my

kid’s school holidays. Those days and

weeks can be long for most children”

“I’ve got to know lots of

other parents in my area

and my kids have made

lots of new friends”“My son has been

to every holiday club that’s been on so far.

He absolutely loves it”

“The club lifts the spirit of the area

during the school holidays, all you

can hear is all the kids laughing and

having a great time’housing association ltd.


“Brilliant club for Toryglen.

My kids look forward to it

every school holiday”

FREE

Thistle HA have been working in successful partnership with GCC and Jeely Piece to deliver the FREE Kids Toryglen Holiday Club all of last year and February this year. The demand for the club has been extremely high and we are delighted to inform you that we have been successful

in gaining funding to deliver the club for the rest of 2019 commencing in April! Please find the proposed dates below for the club.

Registrations will be open 2 weeks prior to the club commencing for each term.

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

FULL



page 19

THA were present at Toryglen Primary school and St Brigid’s school parent’s evenings. We know how busy everyone is and we want to do what we can to inform local residents of our services and support available. We were on hand to offer:

• Money Advice and sign posting• Offering Housing support and advice• Publicising on our planned social calendar• Taking compliments and complaints back to

head office

Thanks to both schools for allowing us to be present once again.

Working Together — Working for Toryglen

Community Photographers We have a lot of great things going on, and we like to make sure we capture all the fun. Are there any budding or local Toryglen based photographers out there who would like the opportunity to capture great shots at our community events?

If so please contact community Team on: [email protected] T: 0141 613 2700

The Association are currently looking for a bank of interested sessional workers for the following paid positions:

Newsletter Distributors:Every couple of months we distribute promotional information to our residents, such as the Newsletter. We are looking for fit and motivated residents who would be interested in delivering our information material.

Want to know more? Contact Carly 0141 613 2700 [email protected]

The next meetings to have your say are:

Tuesday, 9th April 7pm, in The Geoff Shaw Centre, Kerrylamont Avenue, Toryglen

Tuesday, 14th May 6.30pm in The Community Hall, Prospecthill Circus, Toryglen

Tuesday, 11th June at 7pm in The Geoff Shaw Centre, Kerrylamont Avenue, Toryglen

OPPORTUNITIES TO HAVE YOUR SAY!Toryglen Community Council - WORKING FOR THE COMMUNITY IN TORYGLEN

VISITORS WELCOMEDiscussing news, views and community issues

Job opportunities

The newsletter of Thistle Housing Association Winter 2018

Rent Increase Consultation ............ p2-4Bulk Uplift ..........................................p5Scottish Housing Regulator Appeal ..p7

Keep Warm this Winter ...................p10Employment vacancy ......................p22Building a Stronger Community p24-25

INSIDE:

Winter 2018

CHRISTMAS

AND NEW YEAR

OPENING TIMES

Offi ce closed for Christmas & New

Year from

12.30pm M

onday 24th December, re-opening 9am

Friday 4th January

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.Competition Winners!We ran a Christmas Lights competition in the Winter Newsletter. Toryglen sparkled bright with all the decorations. Well done to everyone who made such a huge effort in their decorating!!

The photographs didn’t do these decorations justice.

They were absolutely fantastic! Well done.

Balcony Winner

Chris Mackie,

Prospecthill Road

£25.00 Voucher

Garden WinnerMr Connor,

Kerrylamont Avenue£50.00 Voucher

Supporting at every opportunity



page 20

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 we

are closed 1:00

– 2:00pm for

lunch every day.

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)

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

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.

Documents

riday 19th & Monday 22nd April Monday 6th May Go! Social ... · Factoring housing association ltd. developing a better community page 6 The invoice the Association issues for Factoring