CHRONICLE - Clanmil Housing Association · 2017. 3. 13. · 6 | Clanmil Housing Group In 2016 we raised an impressive total of £12,421.20 for Lighthouse Fundraising events since

Spring Your Home into Shape

Blooming Success for Clanmil Tenants

CHRONICLEINDEPENDENT LIVING EDITION, YOUR MAGAZINE, YOUR CLANMIL

SPRING 2017

IN THIS ISSUE…

Now that the days are getting longer and Spring is upon us, sit back and enjoy the stories and features in this jam packed edition of The Chronicle. You can take a look at the pictures from the latest Clanmil in Bloom Awards on page 18 and see if there’s anyone you recognise.

You can read more on getting your home Spring ready on page 28, or get to know our Housing Officer, Joji on page 29.There are lots of great prizes to be won in this edition. Have a go at our Coffee Break Conundrum on page 36, where you could be in with a chance of winning a Sony DAB Digital Radio.

We also have details on Attendance Allowance on page 4 and an update on our latest Tenant Forum on page 11. And you can catch up with Clanmil’s latest awards success on page 12.

As always we’d love to hear your views on The Chronicle, and we’re putting a call out for tenants who’d like to get involved in its production. See page 13 for more information on how to join our Chronicle Reader Panel.

04 Could You Be Entitled to Attendance Allowance?

05 Join Team Clanmil

06 Give & Gain

07 We’re Turning Forty!

07 Winter Warmer

08 Magical Makeovers

10 Take the Fitness Test

11 New Homes at Clooney Terrace

12 Awards Round-Up

13 A Big Thank You to Des

14 Satisfaction Surveys Provide Useful Feedback

15 Two Become One

16 In the Garden

17 Tenant Handbook

18 Blooming Success for Clanmil Tenants

19 Stay Fire Safe

20 Homes to Fit Your Needs

21 Clanmil Kidz

22 The Commissioner for Older People

23 Raising Funds for Macmillan

25 Be Aware – Stay Safe

24 Featured Scheme Harmony Court

26 Spring Your Home into Shape

27 Knowing Me, Knowing You...

28 Around Tthe Schemes

30 Talking All Things Treasure House

30 Tenant Surveys

32 Coffee Break Conundrum

33 Invest In Yourself!!

35 Be Aware – Stay Safe

Here at Clanmil we hope you all had a lovely Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

Christine Ashfield Marketing and Communications Officer

Front Cover The fabulous gardens at Glenshesk Court, in Ballycastle, winner of the ‘Innovative Garden of the Year’ and ‘Indigenous Planting Initiative’ categories in Clanmil in Bloom 2017

Join the conversation 028 9087 6000 [email protected] @ClanmilHousing

www.clanmil.org Clanmil Housing Clanmil_Housing

p5

p38 Gluten FreeCupcake Recipe

Birthday Bonanza

COOK COURT AND THE IMPERIAL VOLUNTEER NOW

MARY’S MEALS FROM BRENNAN COURT AND MARRIOT HOUSE

GIBONEY HOUSE VALENTINES QUIZ

People living at Cook Court in Newtownards and The Imperial in Donagahee got together in January to volunteer their time to prepare stock for sale in Oxfam shops throughout Northern Ireland.

The activity was organised by Volunteer Now as part of the Public Health Agency’s Take 5 project which encourages people to take 5 steps to wellbeing through volunteering. The 5 steps are:• Connect• Be Active• Take Notice • Keep Learning• Give

Together the volunteers prepared £600 worth of stock for Oxfam. The money raised through the sale of these goods will be put to good use by the charity. The sale of £7 worth of stock buys a mosquito net to protect a family threatened by malaria and £6 worth of stock helps purify around 2,000 litres of water for displaced people in South Sudan.

Well done to people living at Brennen Court and Marriott House in Magherafelt who got together with staff at their schemes to donate 24 school bags filled with school essentials for children in Malawi. The bags were donated through Mary's Meals, a charity that helps provide disadvantaged children with an education and meal each day.

Staff at Giboney House pulled out all the stops this Valentine’s Day to create an authentic pub quiz for the residents who live there. A great evening was had by all, with lots of food, laughter and craic.

Clanmil Housing Group | 3

4 | Clanmil Housing Group

MONEYMATTERS

Could YOU be entitled to Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance has two weekly rates, and the rate you get depends on the help you need. You’ll get:• £55.10 if you need help in the

day or at night• £82.30 if you need help both

in the day and at night.

Attendance Allowance won't reduce other incomeClaiming Attendance Allowance won’t reduce any other income you receive, and it’s tax-free. If you’re awarded it, you may become entitled to other benefits, such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Rates Reductions, or an increase in these benefits.

Who can claim Attendance Allowance? As we get older, many of us need a little extra help to look

after ourselves, especially if we have a long-term illness or disability.

You could be eligible for Attendance Allowance if you:

• are 65 or over (if you’re under 65, you may be eligible for Personal Independence Payment instead)

• could benefit from help with personal care, such as getting washed or dressed, getting in/out of bed, moving around indoors, showering or bathing, or supervision to keep you safe during the day or night.

• have any type of disability or illness, including sight or hearing impairments, or mental health issues such as dementia

• have needed help for at least 6 months (if you’re terminally ill you can make a claim straight away)

Attendance Allowance isn’t means-tested, so your income and savings aren’t taken into account.

You don’t actually have to receive help from a carer, as Attendance Allowance is based on the help you need, not the help you actually get.

And you don’t have to spend your Attendance Allowance on care – it’s up to you how you use it.

Attendance Allowance can help you to stay independent in your own home. So don’t delay in making a claim if you think you could be eligible.

Call our Money Advice Team on 028 9087 7047 and speak with Aidan and Eddie. They will be happy to help you with your claim.

You may be able to claim Attendance Allowance if your ability to keep safe or look after your own personal care is affected by physical or mental illness or disability.


Was your New Year's resolution to get fit? Or maybe to take up running or walking? We are looking for keen runners and walkers to join 'Team Clanmil' in this year's Belfast City Marathon!

This year the challenge is to raise money for the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Fund

and we would love your help! If you are up for taking part in this year's marathon relay, 8 mile walk, 3 mile fun run, or, if you’re really brave, the full 26 mile marathon, let us know! Every step you take is one step closer to helping us raise as much money as possible for this very worthy cause.

To sign up just call Jim Pow on 028 9087 6000 or email [email protected].

JOIN TEAM CLANMIL

Happy birthday to everyone who’s recently celebrated a special birthday!Many happy returns to Harold Turkington (70), Peggy Wallace and Maud Martin (both 90), Ronald Hernberg (94) and Maudi Dick, who’ve all been celebrating with their friends and neighbours. We hope you had a great day!

BIRTHDAY BONANZA!

1. Maud had a bloomin’ great birthday at Abercorn Court.

2. A tea time celebration for Peggy at Allen Court in November. 3. Maudi wearing the special birthday hat at Bessie Bell. 4. Celebrating 94 years with Ronald who is Allen Court’s oldest tenant.

5. It was party time at Giboney Court when Harold turned 70.

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In 2016 we raised an impressive total of £12,421.20 for LighthouseFundraising events since our last Chronicle have included a ‘Night at the Races’, raising a total of £689.55, a ‘Winter Warmer’ coffee morning that raised £648 and a Sausage Bap Breakfast that added £1,221.15 to the total. Our Business Improvement Manager, Jim also took on Man vs. Mountain - a three mountain marathon challenge - raising a total of £811.25. And our Development Officer Colleen peddled her way through Lap the Lough, a

96 mile cycle challenge which raised £130.

A big thank you to everyone who helped organise and support fundraising events throughout the year.

Our new nominated charity for 2017 is The Adult Congenital Heart Disease Fund. This cause is particularly close to our hearts at Clanmil as our colleague and Head of ICT, Frank O’Hare lost his son Ronan

suddenly and unexpectedly in October last year.

We really appreciate the support you have shown over the past two years for our Give and Gain efforts. We hope you will get behind this year’s appeal too and help us raise as much money as possible. If you would like to organise an event or have a great fundraising idea, call Jim Pow on 028 9087 6000 or email [email protected]

“Winter Warmer” fundraiser planned by Clanmil’s Assets Team… perfect for a cold November morning!

LEFT: Colleen as she crosses the finish line in the Lap The Lough cycle challenge.

Jim taking part in one of three Man vs. Mountain challenges.

Clanmil’s Night at the Races fundraiser for Lighthouse organised by our Housing Management Team

GIVE & GAIN

WE’RE TURNING

FORTY!On 4th March 2017 Clanmil will turn 40 – although we think we look better than ever!

To celebrate this milestone we’re planning a whole host of excitement for the year and we hope you’ll join in on all the birthday fun.

Keep an eye out on our Facebook page and your scheme notice board for more information on what’s coming up in your area and how you can be part of the celebrations.

There's nothing quite like settling down to a rich hearty meal during the winter months.

WINTER WARMER

Warm up your menu and your taste buds with a ‘Winter Warmer’ sent to us by one of our readers; Marguretta Stone, from Harmony Court in Belfast.

For sending us her delicious ‘Winter Warmer’ recipe, Marguretta received a £30 shopping voucher for Marks and Spencer. Happy shopping!

Ingredients

• 1 Shin bone

• 1 packet of lentils

• 1 packet of barley

• 1 packets of chopped soup vegetables

• Baby potatoes

Method1. Add all ingredients except the

potatoes to a large pot and, place on the cooker. Bring to a boil and simmer until the barley is fully cooked.

2. Boil baby potatoes in a separate pot, until soft.

3. Once cooked, remove the large pot from heat. Add the baby potatoes into the pot.

Enjoy!

This dish can serve 1 person, for a few days. This can also be frozen until required.


Recently we completed a number of kitchen replacements involving an

investment of £260,000. Our Planned Maintenance Officer Chris Hanna has overseen many of the kitchen refurbishments. Chris said:

“We recognise that the kitchen is the ‘heart of a home’ and our kitchen upgrades are one of the most important areas of the work we carry out for tenants. It’s great to see the pride our tenants have in their new kitchens”.

Recent kitchen refurbishments

include:• Ashfield Court, Donaghadee• Galluan, Downpatrick • Glenville Court,

Newtownabbey• Radhard Brid, Omagh• Stronge Court, Portadown

Our kitchen upgrades involve replacing kitchen units, providing extract fans, fitting new floor coverings, replacing wall tiles and rewiring.

We meet with tenants to discuss their needs and try to work around these in designing their new kitchen. We offer a choice of kitchen doors and tenants can supplement our work by selecting their own wall tiles and

paint colours.

Tracey Hughes from Glenville Court has recently had her kitchen upgraded and is delighted with the work. She said:

“I’m so happy with the finished product. From start to finish the staff at Clanmil and the contractors couldn’t have been better. All of the kitchen choices were so nice I would have been happy with any of them. Thank you so much.”

Mary McCartney, also from Glenville Court is thrilled with the work too.

MAGICAL MAKEOVERSOur Planned Maintenance Team is continuing to roll out our refurbishment programme which will see an investment of more than £8m over 5 years.


She said:

“I’ve much more storage and work top space now. Even my boiler has its own cupboard. I really appreciate the thought and attention to detail put into the design and the fact that I was able to personalise it. I love the way my floor matches my worktop. A big thanks to the team at Clanmil.”

Newly Refurbished Newton CourtNewtown Court in Dungannon also got a facelift over the past few months. £90,000 has been invested in planned maintenance works for the scheme of eight apartments.

The investment included upgraded kitchens, replacement windows and internal and external redecoration and an

automated front door. Tenants are delighted with the new furniture, soft furnishings and carpet throughout the scheme along with the newly installed tea and coffee hub.

Early consultation is a huge part of Clanmil’s commitment to tenant involvement, and tenants are always included in decisions about their homes. Tenants have their say on colour choice, agreeing work plans and selecting materials.

Sinead Murphy, Tenant Liaison Officer really values tenant involvement in our planned works. She says:

“Our tenants can really help us deliver the best possible results when we’re upgrading their homes so we really appreciate the time they commit to working with us on our plans before works start.”

Join our Tenants’ Asset Panel The Tenants’ Asset Panel is a small group of tenants who will meet regularly, work alongside our Assets Team and help us design our service, select product ranges and provide feedback on how we deliver our planned works.

Group Director of Assets, Tony Giffen commented:

“We pride ourselves on the homes we provide and invest not only in maintaining our homes but also in making them as safe, secure, warm and attractive for the people who live in them as possible. By working positively with customers we can get the best possible results from the money we invest.”

If you’d like to get involved, please let us know! For more information, or to sign up to be a member of the panel, call Sinead Murphy on 028 9087 6000, message us on Facebook or email [email protected]

LEFT: Chris Hanna, Planned Maintenance Officer with Tracey Hughes from Glenville Court in her brand new kitchen.

RIGHT: Mr Paddy Boyle with SCO Geradline Talbot in the newly refurbished sitting room at Newton Court.

BELOW: Mrs Marjorie Campbell is enjoying her lovely new kitchen in her home at Strong Court


Over the past year we’ve been sharing lots of news, tips and information via our Clanmil Facebook page, as well as posting regular status updates, photos and videos.

A massive thank you to everyone

who’s already hit the “Like” button on our page. If you haven’t found us on Facebook yet, simply search Clanmil Housing Association and give us a “like” to stay up-to-date.

There are lots of ways you can

use Facebook to get in touch with us too. You can easily report a repair on our page and private message us with any enquiries you may have. Contacting Clanmil has never been easier!

1. As we get older, we should limit our physical activities because they can be too taxing on our bodies.

A. True B. False

2. Exercising during the day will keep you up at night.

A. True B. False

3. Keeping an exercise log can let you know if you are exercising enough.

A. True B. False

4. Many exercises can be done from a wheelchair.

A. True B. False

5. To do strength training properly, you will need a set of dumbbells.

A. True B. False

6. An older person's exercise program should include activities that develop flexibility, balance, strength training, and endurance.

A. True B. False

7. One of the best aerobic exercises for older adults is walking.

A. True B. False

8. To get a good water workout, you must know how to swim.

A. True B. False

9. You'll know that you're exercising at a good pace if you're huffing and puffing.

A. True B. False

10. Older people don't need to drink as much fluid during exercise as younger people.

A. True B. False

To enter, return the completed quiz along with your name and address to:

Christine AshfieldClanmil Housing Group3 Waring StreetBelfast BT1 2DX

KEEP UP TO SPEED WITH FACEBOOK

None of us like to be reminded that we’re getting older but we all know that ageing is inevitable. But some of the changes associated with aging are not!

TAKE THE FITNESS TESTJust because you're getting older doesn't mean you can't be fit. Take this quiz to learn more about senior fitness and be in with a chance of winning a hamper of healthy treats to the value of £40.

This new development combines a unique urban setting with true convenience and has been sympathetically designed to blend and integrate into its environment. Breath-taking views over the River Foyle and a magnificent panoramic vista of the city help make Clooney Terrace a lovely place to live.

A very warm welcome to everyone who recently moved in. We hope you are settling nicely into your new home.

NEW HOMES AT CLOONEY TERRACEIn December, we were delighted to hand over the keys to nine fabulous new apartments at our new active ageing housing scheme at Clooney Terrace in Derry/Londonderry.

On the 9th December we held our Christmas Tenant Forum and were delighted to welcome the Older People’s Commissioner Eddie Lynch along to speak to our tenant representatives.

Eddie spoke about how passionately he feels about his role as a champion for

Older People’s rights. He talked to us about the work he has done so far in tackling post Brexit ageism and Audiology waiting times. Our tenants had a chance to tell Eddie about our Supporting People campaign and explain how essential our Scheme Co-ordinator service is to them.

Forum members also discussed the plans for maintenance and the upgrading of our schemes. Our maintenance team listened to their concerns and explained about the improvements they have made to the process so far. The forum also discussed the winners of the Clanmil in Bloom competition. They were very impressed with the gardening skills on show and commented on the high standard of entries.

Following the meeting a delicious Christmas meal was enjoyed by all who’d attended.

We love to see new faces at our Forum. So if you feel passionate about where you live and would like to be the voice of your scheme, please come along and share your enthusiasm with our group. Talk to your Housing Officer or Scheme Co-ordinator if you’d like to be involved.

TENANT FORUM UPDATE


Clanmil Independent Living Tenant Forum Chair, George Glenn having a look around the new apartments

CLANMIL CLAIMS GOLD AT SOCIAL ENTERPRISE AWARDS

We are delighted to have scooped a top prize at the Social Enterprise Awards 2016.

Social Enterprise NI promotes and supports social enterprises across Northern Ireland and their annual awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of social entrepreneurs in delivering social impact.

This year Clanmil was named winner in the “Prove It: Social

Impact” category. The award recognises the positive impact of our work in developing communities and promoting financial inclusion and employability for the people who live in our homes.

CIH SHORTLISTING SUCCESS

We are so proud that two of our awesome team have been shortlisted in this year’s Chartered Institute of Housing Awards! One of our Housing Officers, Michaela McCusker has been shortlisted in the Young Person of the Year

Award category while our Chief Executive, Clare McCarty has been shortlisted in the Housing Professional of the Year category.

Also shortlisted are our rent First campaign, designed to help tenants avoid rent arrears, our new shared housing development at Felden in Newtownabbey and our Supporting People: Empowering Communities employability programme.

Fingers crossed for the awards ceremony on 24 February!

Tenants at Cambridge Close were joined by staff to bid a fond farewell to Liz Kay, Scheme Co-ordinator, at their coffee morning on 13 January.

Over the past 9 years, Liz has shared her warmth and care with everyone at the scheme and beyond. Her sense of duty and her commitment to Clanmil will certainly be missed.

BEST WISHESTO LIZ


ABOVE: Our tenant Christine (far left) joined our Community Development team to collect the award

AWARDS ROUND-UP

Do you ever read the Clanmil Chronicle and think, I’d like to see more articles on advice or hobbies or food or….? Well here’s your chance to make that happen!

We want to set up a group of tenants to advise on content and to help guide the direction we take your magazine in the future. We’d love to hear from you if you’d like to be involved. We’ll take on board your advice on articles, design, photography or anything else you’d like to tell us. All we ask is that you have a look at our

contents list, give us some feedback and then read the magazine before it goes to the printer.

If you think you could spare an hour or two twice a year to get involved we’d love to hear from you. Just call Christine or Emma on 028 9087 6000 or email [email protected]

JOIN OUR READER PANEL

Des Long joined the Board of Clanmil in 2006 and was also Chair of the Independent Living Tenant Forum.

During his time on the Board Des was committed to improving all

aspects of the services provided by Clanmil, as well as supporting our programme of growth through building more new quality homes for people who need them.

Des was an important member

of the team, sharing his professional experience with fellow Board members. He recently retired from the Board after 9 years of service and his enthusiasm and support will be missed.

A BIG THANK YOU TO DESDes was joined by Clanmil Group Chief Executive Clare McCarty and Group Director of Housing Colette Moore along with neighbours from Giboney Court to mark his retirement from the Board.



Abercorn Court, Portrush

Giboney court, Cookstown

Glenann Court, Glengormley

Harmony Court, Belfast

Henderson Court, Belfast

Hezlet Court, Coleraine

Monarch Building, Dunmurry

Semper Building, Dunmurry

Sinton Court, Cookstown

Somme Park, Derry/Londonderry

The Savoy, Bangor

SATISFACTION SURVEYSPROVIDE USEFUL FEEDBACKIn March and April 2016 we carried out satisfaction surveys at the following schemes for older people:

These surveys are extremely useful to us. They tell us what we’re doing well and provide valuable feedback on aspects of our service where need to improve.

Thank you to those of you who

took part – your feedback is greatly appreciated.

The results for each individual scheme will be sent to everyone who lives there.

Overall satisfaction with the

services we provide has risen to 96%, an increase of 5% from the previous year. Of seven key indicators, satisfaction has increased in four areas, decreased in two and remained the same in one.

Key: achieving or better than target just below target below target

Question Performance 2014/15 ActualDifference

against target

Comparator

2013/14

Tenants satisfied with overall service 96% 5% 82%

Overall quality of home 96% — 77%

Value for money in rent 82% 9% 63%

Value for money in service charge 86% 2% 54%

Neighbourhood as a place to live 86% 4% 75%

Clanmil listens to your views and acts upon them 72% 2% 74%

Generally how satisfied are you with the way Clanmil delivers it’s repairs and maintenance service?

86% 4% 68%

Two years ago we welcomed Hearth Housing Association to the Clanmil Housing Group. At the end of December Clanmil and Hearth completed a full merger and the two organisations have now joined together under the Clanmil Housing name.

As a result of the merger Clanmil has adopted around 100 homes of architectural significance that had been restored by Hearth since 1978. A warm welcome to all of the tenants who live in these homes. We are really looking forward to providing great housing management and maintenance services to you, including our SPEC employability programme and our Treasure House museum workshops.

Hearth was a very special housing association that worked to restore architecturally significant and historic buildings

at risk throughout Northern Ireland, transforming them to provide unique homes. Hearth tenants found themselves living in beautifully restored schoolhouses, elegant Georgian homes, unique almshouses, distinctive gate lodges and cosy terraced houses from the 1800’s.

Thanks to the expertise of Hearth staff joining the Clanmil team we’ll be able to carry

on Hearth’s important work, providing more great homes by protecting and restoring heritage buildings.

TWO BECOME ONE


MAIN PHOTO: Tenant Jacqueline Morgan (centre) joined Hearth Chair Alastair Rankin, Chair of Clanmil Steve Amos and Housing Officers Elaine McCreight and Angela Rouchy to announce the merger.


Spring time in the garden can be a wonderful, but challenging time. The weather dictates, unpredictable and is sometimes relentless.

IN THE GARDEN

However, small jobs and short visits can make a big difference. Tidying up dead

growth to the compost bin, clearing litter carried in the wind or a little light weeding can go a long way.

The weather is still cold this month so hang fat balls and keep bird feeders topped up to attract birds, who will in turn eat pests in your garden. Wash empty pots by scrubbing them with hot water and a mild detergent. Rinse them well afterwards. Consider using containers and hanging baskets filled with bedding plants to add colour to your patio. If you have trouble bending, consider raised planters.

Plan your garden for the coming season. Can you make the space more attractive? Try drawing a sketch, using catalogues to

choose the plants and flowers that you like and will make best use of the space and make a plan and a “to do” list.

Talk to the garden contractors. They don’t bite! Where they can they will assist with the upkeep and give good advice on the garden at your scheme.

Our communal gardens can be used for many things like social events, moments to relax, watching birds and wildlife and light exercise. All proven to be positive elements in living a healthier lifestyle.

Clanmil in Bloom is another incentive. Taking part is a great way to improve our outdoor shared living spaces. A little light competition between complexes, adding funds in the prize awards and best of all, the taking part.

Container gardening is a great way of improving the immediate space that we look out on, tubs, planters and baskets round the windows and doors of our apartments can brighten the dullest of days. Both the ornate arrangements bought in or a packet of Wildflower seeds scattered in a tub can change a bland corner into a festival of colour and wildlife activity!

Sunflowers, easy to grow and a great addition to any garden.

by Sean Traynor, Glenshesk Court Ballycastle

An Autumn tub, on Claire’s Patio, kept the colour all through the winter.


Did you know we have abrand new tenant handbook?!

TENANTHANDBOOKThe new handbook features essential information about your tenancy and our services. It also includes details of who to contact if you need help or assistance relating to your home.

You can access a copy of your new handbook on our website in the “Your Home” tab, or if you’d like your very own copy, just drop us a message on Facebook or email [email protected] and we will post one out to you.

The Clanmil Housing website recently had a makeover! It’s now easier than ever to find your way around and has lots of useful info specifically for tenants.

The refreshed site is mobile friendly so you can access it where ever you are and there’s a

new search function so you can find what you’re looking for with just a few taps.

Our tenant area - Your Home – has lots of useful advice and information about living in your Clanmil home. You can also pay your rent and report a repair

through the Your Home tab.Simply click on www.clanmil.org to check out the new look site and let us know what you think. If there’s anything you’d like to see added to the site, let us know by messaging us on Facebook or emailing [email protected]

CLICK “REFRESH”

Here are the lucky winners who scooped the prizes in our last edition:

Mary Armstrong – Spot the HazzardsFrankie Clarke – Movie MuddleMargie Beckett – Coffee Break Conundrum

Thanks to all who entered and well done to our winners, we hope you all enjoy your prizes! Check out page 10, 21, 33 and 36 of this edition for more competitions and your chance to win!

COMPETITION WINNERS

Clanmil in Bloom acknowledges and rewards those tenants who take a keen interest in keeping the green spaces around their homes looking the very best they can and gives tenants with green fingers and a passion for gardening a chance to showcase their handiwork.

This year the standard of entries was extremely high, and the judges had a difficult job choosing the winner.

After much debate, deliberation and discussion, here’s who picked up the prizes:

• Gloonan House, Ahoghill - Best kept independent living scheme/housing with care home

• Felden, Newtownabbey - Best overall family development or single person’s scheme

• Timothy and Pauline Nightingale, Somme Park, Derry/ Londonderry - Best kept individual garden and best newcomer

• Glenshesk Court, Ballycastle - Innovative garden of the year and indigenous planting initiative

• Caffrey Hill, Belfast - Community participation award

• Raglan Place, Ballymena - Best use of a difficult space

Congratulations to everyone who took part and especially to the winners!

In November, the long anticipated results of this year’s Clanmil in Bloom gardening competition were announced at a celebration event at The Junction in Dungannon, hosted by Cherrie McIlwaine, presenter of BBC Radio Ulster’s Gardeners’ Corner.

BLOOMING SUCCESSFOR CLANMIL TENANTS

ABOVE: Linda Blair, Yvonne Rock and Maureen Pearce from Gloonan House in Ahoghill with Clanmil Director of Housing, Colette Moore as they picked up the prize for best kept independent living scheme/housing with care home.

RIGHT: Colette with Timothy and Pauline Nightingale from Somme Park in Derry/Londonderry, winners of the ‘Best Kept Individual Garden’ and ‘Best Newcomer’ category.

RIGHT: Colette, with Glenshesk Court Scheme Co-Ordinator, Lillian McCullough who picked up the prize for ‘Innovate Garden of the Year’ and ‘Indigenous planting Initiative’ on behalf of tenants from Glenshesk Court in Ballycastle.


Keep an eye on the notice board at your scheme for details of this year’s Clanmil in Bloom competition.

STAY FIRE SAFEWe take all aspects of health and safety seriously especially when it comes to fire safety at our apartment buildings. Thankfully fires are rare but with lots of people living together in one building it is important that we have procedures in place to deal with potential fire risks and keep everyone safe.


Some of the things we do include:

• a full fire risk assessment of the building by a professional assessor every two years

• high quality fire detection and protection equipment within all our buildings

• service contracts for our equipment, emergency lights, boilers and fire alarms to ensure everything is working as it should

• weekly testing of our fire alarms and evacuation procedures on display in our schemes

• taking all new tenants through the evacuation procedure when they move into their new home

• two evacuation drills each year to ensure everyone knows what to do in the unlikely event of a fire

Everyone has a role to play in ensuring they minimise fire risk within their own home. Have a look at our top tips for reducing fire risk in your home:

CHIP AND GRILL PANSChip and grill pans are one of the most common causes of fire in the home. Follow these simple guidelines to keep your kitchen safe:• Never fill a pan more than one

third full of fat of oil• Never leave the pan

unattended when the heat is switched on

• Never put food in the pan if the oil is smoking

• Turn off the heat and leave the oil to cool

• Better still use an electric deep fat fryer

CANDLES• Never leave candles

unattended• Use a metal candle holder• Don’t place candles on

plastic surfaces or near soft furnishings

ELECTRIC• Don’t overload electrical

sockets• Use the correct fuse• Don’t dry clothes close to

electric heaters

• Ensure that only professional tradesmen repair faulty electrical appliances or wiring

NIGHT TIMEMany fires start at night. Make sure you have a night-time fire safety routine to help keep you safe:• Switch off and unplug all

electrical appliances not designed to stay on overnight

• Before emptying ashtrays make sure the contents are cold

• Check soft furnishings where people have been smoking

• Close the doors to all rooms• Check that keys to doors

and window locks are easily available

SMOKING• Never leave a lit cigarette or

pipe unattended. It may fall onto an armchair or carpet which will quickly catch fire and give off dense smoke and fumes

• Never smoke in a chair if you think you may doze off

• Never smoke in bed

This is bad for the environment and an invitation to thieves.

Leaving your car engine running releases unnecessary fumes and emissions into the atmosphere and uses more fuel than necessary.

Leaving your vehicle running

can also attract thieves. Last year several cars were stolen as residents “warmed up” their cars on cold mornings. Don’t become a victim of car crime. Instead, leave yourself an extra five minutes to defrost the car before your journey while you're sitting cosily inside it.

BEAT THE FREEZE

STOP

Spring may be just around the corner but there’s still a chance of frosty mornings when it can be tempting to leave our car in the driveway with the engine running to defrost it and warm it up for the journey ahead.

At Clanmil we want all of our tenants to be able to live comfortably in their homes.

HOMES TO FIT YOUR NEEDSFor tenants who are elderly, disabled or have a long-term illness and need extra support, we can help by making adaptations to their homes. We can carry out minor adaptations such as: • Installing grab rails• Installing extra stair rails• Installing lever taps

We can also help with larger adaptations, including:• Installing a level shower• Installing a ramp• Installing a stair lift• Providing extra bathroom

facilities

We’ve recently reviewed our adaptations service to make

it more effective in delivering quality homes to support the health and wellbeing of our tenants.

As part of this review, we met with tenants who have used our adaptations service, listened to their experiences and used their feedback to identify ways to speed up this process and improve the overall tenant experience.

Improvements we’re making:• We’re getting to know our

tenants better so we can easily identify adaptation needs

• We will better support our tenants through the

adaptations process• Tenant queries will be

responded to quicker and with the right information

• We will provide specific information on new adaptations including what they will look like and how long they will take

• We will communicate with our tenants, using their preferred means of communication e.g. text, phone, letter or e-mail

• We will provide better training for our staff on our adaptation process



CLANMIL KIDZ

MOVIE MUDDLE

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

While you’re unwinding from a long day of school, why not have a go and try to guess the mystery movie below?! Think you know what it is? If you're aged 6 to 14. Send us your best guess to be in with a chance of winning a family pass to your local cinema.

Send your entry to:Emma KernohanClanmil Housing Group3 Waring StreetBelfast BT1 2DX

Good Luck!

Take a closer look at each of the pics and see how many differences you can spot!

Send your answers to [email protected] to be in with a chance of winning a £20 Toys R Us voucher if you're 8 or under, or a £20 gift card for Newlook or GAME if you are aged 9-15.

Good Luck!

Answer ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Name ............................................................................ ....................................................................................................... Age ...............................................................................

Address .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................................................................

Voucher choice ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AND SOMETHINGFOR YOUR YOUNGVISITORS….


Eddie Lynch took up his position as Commissioner for Older People for

Northern Ireland in June last year following eight years as the Chief Executive of Age Sector Platform. Since then, Eddie has spent much of his time meeting with older people and speaking out on important issues including financial abuse, negative views and stereotypes of older people and the risk of scams targeting them.

Eddie Lynch said: “As Commissioner, I have a set of priorities that I want to take forward in the next four years. I based these on what older people tell me is important to them and work already carried out by my office. Each year my organisation supports up to 200 older people who have asked for advocacy, support and assistance. I also have several years of experience in working directly with older people through the Pensioners’ Parliament and I think it’s extremely important that my

work reflects their views and opinions. This is why I attend engagement events across Northern Ireland to meet with older people, their families and carers, and to hear what they have to say.

At the heart of his priorities, the Commissioner wishes to create a society which respects, values and protects older people by providing advice to government on important policy issues, holding public authorities to account for their performance and promoting the positive aspects of ageing.

Tackling financial abuse and examining the experience of older people who have been victims of crimes are just two of the of the areas of focus for the Commissioner’s term. The services and treatment older people receive from public authorities, including healthcare providers, will also be reviewed and the Commissioner will be working to make sure that older people receive the care and

treatment they need. The Commissioner’s other priorities will include;

RESPECT• Social inclusion: Ensuring

older people remain connected to where they want to be and to their families and friends

• Examine the arrangements for older people in nursing care and residential settings

• Press for introduction of legislation to end age discrimination in the provision of goods, facilities and services

• Monitor and review emerging policy proposals from government to ensure older people receive the health and social care services and support they need.

VALUE • Encourage employment and

entrepreneurship for those over 60

• Highlight the benefits of older people getting online and encourage digital inclusion

The Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, Eddie Lynch is an independent champion for older people, who safeguards and promotes their interests.

• Advocate with government on behalf of older people to be a priority in the Programme for Government

• Monitor implementation of actions outlined in the Active Ageing Strategy

• Advocate on behalf of, and support those living with age-related health conditions

• Help and support older people to make plans and communicate their choices for their end of life

PROTECT • Look at the strategic

approach to the provision of services and support for

dementia in Northern Ireland • Examine the role of the health

and social care regulator and make recommendations to improve its effectiveness

• Identify the scale of financial abuse against older people, raise awareness of the issue and challenge relevant organisations to make required changes

• Work with criminal justice agencies to better support older people who are victims of crime

• Press government for the introduction of an Adult Safeguarding Bill for Northern Ireland

The Commissioner’s office also offers assistance to older people by putting them in touch with organisations best placed to resolve their concerns, intervening directly if older people are having difficulties with a public body that they cannot resolve or by providing legal assistance and conducting investigations into cases affecting older people, their rights and entitlements. Contact the Commissioner’s office on 028 9089 0892 / [email protected]. Visit www.copni.org for more information.


Last year, lots of you helped raise funds for Macmillan by holding coffee mornings all across Northern Ireland.

RAISING FUNDS FOR MACMILLAN

Tenants and staff from Cramsie Court in Ballymoney who enjoyed a coffee morning in aid of Macmillan and raised a massive £850. Well done to everyone!

Tenants and staff from Hughes Court in Belfast at their big coffee morning for Macmillan where they raised a huge £501 from all of the delicious sweet treats donated.


Harmony Court opened in 1992 and provides 31, 1 bedroom flats, 2, 2 bedroom

flats and 1, 3 bedroom flat for people aged over 55.

Deborah Shanks is the Housing Officer who looks after the scheme while Ken Luke provides daily support to tenants in his role as on-site scheme co-ordinator.

Ken takes pride in making life at Harmony Court as enjoyable as it can possibly be for their tenants and his cooking skills make weekly coffee mornings

and lunch clubs a real hit. His homemade custard is sublime!

There is never a dull moment at Harmony Court. Regular activities ensure everyone at Harmony Court can join in and get together to enjoy the company of their friends and neighbours. Frequent day trips are also a big part of life at Harmony Court. Whether it’s a day out to Mary Katherine’s Cottage in Warrenpoint, a trip to Ballymena for Christmas lunch or a spin up the coast to Ballycastle, they are always thoroughly enjoyed by everyone

who lives here.

Tom McCallister told us about life at Harmony Court. He says;

“Harmony Court is great. It’s lovely to have such a friendly and kind scheme co-ordinator and domestic, and such lovely neighbours too! There is always something going on here with our lunch clubs and coffee mornings and not forgetting our outings, which are a big hit with everyone. We always look forward to the next one!” Sam Kennedy, also told us about what it’s like to live at Harmony

The next in our series of profiles on Clanmil independent living schemes provides a glimpse into life at Harmony Court in Belfast. From lunch clubs and coffee mornings to fantastic days out, there’s always lots going on at Harmony Court. Read on to find out more…

FEATURED SCHEME

HARMONY COURT


Court. He says;

“I enjoy getting together with my friends and neighbours at our weekly gatherings. It’s nice to catch up with neighbours and have a laugh.”

The neighbourly tenants, friendly staff and multitude of things to do help make

Harmony Court a wonderful place to live.

The team at Harmony Court are truly dedicated to ensuring that life is active and enjoyable for everyone who lives there and their hard work and commitment is very much appreciated by their tenants.

“Life at Harmony Court is great. It’s lovely to have such a friendly and kind scheme co-ordinator and domestic, and such lovely neighbours too!”

TOP: Tenants from Harmony Court celebrated Christmas at their scheme party.

LEFT: Tenants at Harmony court enjoyed a lovely day out to Tullyglass Hotel in Ballymena for Christmas lunch.

ABOVE: The breakfast club at Harmony Court, where the food is great and the company is even better.


With the arrival of March comes a race towards Spring. Daffodils are already out, Easter eggs are appearing on shop shelves, and at the end of the month, the clocks will go forward. We can almost feel an extra spring in our step just thinking about it!

The brighter, lighter days often make us look at our homes with fresh eyes. We see any dreary corners, smudged windows and tired looking accessories. With that in mind, we thought it might be fun to share a list of great, quick and easy ways to liven up your home just in time for Spring.

• Treat yourself to a new vase and add fresh flowers like daffodils and tulips to the room.

• Do some Spring cleaning and give the windows a wipe to let in more light.

• Treat yourself to a stack of new home interior magazines and settle down to do some research.

• Make a list of the main areas in your home that need some TLC and start tackling them now.

• If you’ve been hoarding lots over the Winter, start to declutter every room, taking it one space at a time.

• Change the curtains for a more lightweight fabric.• Change the cushions for fresher colours and brighter prints.• Bring out the lighter duvet and treat the bed to a set of fresh cotton

sheets.• Hang a new mirror and give a room a lift by bouncing some of the

Spring light around the space.• Pot some primroses and put them at the front door, cheering up the

entrance to your home.• Add some new succulent plants to the kitchen windowsill.• Don’t be afraid to throw out the old. If you’ve no use for it anymore,

throw it out or give it to charity.• Give a room a lick of fresh paint if it’s looking drab after the Winter.

SPRING YOUR HOME INTO SHAPE


KNOWING YOU...Knowing me,

What made you decide to work in the social housing sector?In a previous role I worked with homeless refugees. Seeing how important a good home is for people when it comes to being able to get on with your life made me realise that housing was the career for me.

What do you like most about your job?I love the satisfaction of being part of an organisation that makes a real difference to peoples’ lives. And my colleagues! It’s a pleasure to work with such skilled and passionate people. And they’re generous too. Especially in the pub on a Friday evening!

What has been your worst job ever?When I was 18 I answered a job advert in the paper, had a phone interview and was asked to attend a training day.

All without being told what the job was. When I arrived, I was driven out to a Lancashire market town, and had to go door to door selling loyalty cards for local restaurants. Pay was commission only, and I sold nothing. When they brought me back to Manchester, I went home and never went back. I still feel slightly grubby when I think of it.

What is your greatest achievement to date?Making it into the Clanmil Chronicle has to be it! (and I'd like to thank my agent and everyone who made it possible).

What is your favourite film and why?It changes. Currently, it’s The Grand Budapest Hotel. I love Wes Anderson’s very stylized cinematography and his dialogue. Next week Die Hard!

When you’re not in the office what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?Cycling, climbing, playing the guitar and cooking. All at the same time, whilst rescuing kittens from burning buildings and composing poetry in iambic hexameter!!!!

What is your guiltiest pleasure?Four Fish fingers between two slices of white bread. I’m so ashamed! I eat Quinoa, foraged berries and nuts the rest of the time. Honest!!!!

Which super hero power would help you do your job better?Is there a superhero who can make people who are arguing see things from each other's perspective? Captain Reasonable. If he doesn't exist, he should.

Meet Joji Min, who’s been part of the Clanmil Housing Team for quite a while now. He has a huge passion for housing, and his tenants, and enjoys the job satisfaction that comes with being a Housing Officer. When he’s not in the office this multi-tasker enjoys cycling, climbing, cooking and playing guitar. Read on to find out more about what makes Joji tick…


Stronge Court Gets BusyPeople living at Stronge Court in Portadown busy making a raised bed for growing veg with the help of The Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland.

Ardnaksea Court Christmas Party

Tenants at Ardnaskea Court in Dungannon were

joined by friends and neighbours from Church

Mews and Newton Court for a night of story

telling, festive music and a seasonal supper, to

celebrate Christmas.

Swing Dance

Tenants from Mullan Mews and Sydenham Court in

Belfast had a fab time jiving the afternoon away at

the Belfast City Council Age Friendly Swing Dance

at the Ulster Hall.

Templer Court Charity Cheques Tenants from Templer Court in Lurgan with reps from St Vincent de Paul and Cancer Research as they handed over donation cheques of £300 each. Great fundraising effort by everyone!

Abercorn Court Christmas Party Celebrating Christmas at Abercorn Court!

Tenants here enjoyed a fantastic Christmas party,

complete with great food, music, a raffle and

lots of dancing too!

Relaxation Sessions

Tenants from Barbour Court in Enniskillen

enjoying a relaxing Chi Mi session at

Lakeland Forum.

AROUND THE SCHEMES


De la Cour Wreath making Tenants from De la Cour House in Belfast who took part in a Christmas craft session with Activities Co-ordinator, Jean Scott where they made lovely Christmas Wreaths. Don’t they look great!?


Tullyglass Trip

Tenants living at Harmony Court House in Belfast

enjoyed a day trip at the end of November to the

Tullyglass House Hotel in Ballymena for lunch.

Gloonan Day Trip

Tenants and staff from Gloonan House in Ahoghill

who enjoyed a fabulous day trip to Belfast City

Hall, before heading along the stunning coastal

route to Carnlough for a great meal in the

Londonderry Arms Hotel.

Gloonan House Burns Night

Tenants from Gloonan House in Ahoghill

celebrated Burns Night in January with an evening

get together, completed by some bagpipe music.

Stronge Court Salvation Army fundraiser Our very generous tenants at Stronge Court in Portadown collected £100 for The Salvation Army at their annual carol service. Sheila, a tenant at Stronge Court presented the cheque to Captain Sue.

Templer day trip to Buttercrane

Tenants and staff from Templer Court in Lurgan

as they enjoyed a fabulous day out to Buttercrane

shopping center in Newry, topped off with dinner

in Warrenpoint.


The Treasure House Project run in partnership with Northern Ireland Museums is continuing to grow. In the last year over 256 workshops were delivered with 325 tenants attending regularly from all of our independent living schemes across Northern Ireland.

The project is inspired by the museums’ collections which are very diverse - everything

from the 2,500 year old Egyptian mummy Takabuti to St Bridget!The monthly activities organised by our museum colleagues, Mary Bonnar and Sue Cathcart are really engaging and your feedback to us is that you love the social and creative sessions

that draw from your own experiences and knowledge of life.

‘Treasure House’ is such a perfect title for this great project. The museums truly are treasure houses containing many fascinating objects, from the rare and valuable to those reflecting everyday life from

long ago. All have fascinating stories attached to them.

If you would like to join in your local Treasure House project please talk to your Scheme Co-ordinator. They will be able to tell you more about the project and when the next session is taking place.

Talking All Things TREASUREHOUSE

TENANT SURVEYSOver the past weeks we’ve been out and about all over

Northern Ireland visiting as many tenants as possible to complete our Tenant Survey. The purpose of the survey is to

gather information that will help us improve the services we provide at your scheme. The good news is that we’re almost there, thanks to all of you who have taken part.

Almost all of our tenants have completed the survey so far. If you are one of the few who hasn’t, there’s still time!

Just let us know and we’ll arrange to visit or you can complete the survey over the phone. It won’t take too much of your time, and will help us improve the services we provide to you.

Call 028 9087 6000 to complete our quick survey today.


If you think your neighbour is great, TELL US! Maybe they are always there to lend a helping hand or contribute to your local community in a positive way?

If you think your neighbour deserves some recognition nominate them today! From

everyone who's nominated we’ll pick one tenant to be our Clanmil Crusader. They’ll receive a lovely thank-you prize and, just for nominating the winner, you’ll win a £20 voucher of your choice.

Only people living at Clanmil schemes can be nominated.

Simply fill in the form below and post to:Emma KernohanClanmil Housing3 Waring StreetBelfast BT1 2DX

Or email [email protected]

We’re turning the spot light on you, our tenants and asking you to nominate someone who deserves a big thank you for going above and beyond when it comes to being a good neighbour.

Your Name ........................................................................................................ Your Telephone Number .......................................

Your Address ................................................................................................................................................................................................

Name of Nominee ......................................................................................................................................................................................

Address of Nominee ................................................................................................................................................................................

This person is my Clanmil Crusader because ............................................................................................................................

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Crusaders


Our Coffee Break Conundrum was so popular last time around that we’ve decided to give you another go! Quick thinking readers can put their skills to the test by matching the pictures to the well-known sayings they represent. If you think

you’ve got them all, write your answers in the space below and send them to us for a chance to win a Sony DAB Digital Radio this time around. The winner will be able to tune into their favourite station while they enjoy their morning coffee.

Post your entries to:Christine AshfieldClanmil Housing GroupNorthern Whig House3 Waring StreetBelfast BT1 2DXor email [email protected]

Name .............................................................................................

Address: .........................................................................................

.............................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................

MANBOARD BABY W B O E O A R D S P D O I V O E L

1. 2. 3. 4.

W O R D SF U N N Y W O R D SF U N N Y W O R D S W O R D S

H E A D G R A S S

HILL

5. 6. 7. 8.

J O B

L LE EE EE EG GG GG GS S

l e a g u e P lease9. 10. 11. 12.

COFFEE BREAK CONUNDRUMAs Roy walker used to say in Catchphrase, just say what you see!

And congratulations to Margie Beckett from Monarch Building, Dunmurry who won the Bosch Tassimo Coffee Machine in last editon’s Coffee Break Conundrum!

We all like to age with dignity and to physically take care of ourselves. Ageing is inevitable, we cannot escape time, but ageing well is definitely something we can all invest in!!

I grew up in South Africa. We didn’t have a free medical service so keeping well to

avoid large health bills was a way of life for me. I have always exercised and feel passionately that the good health and stamina I enjoy today, at almost 80 years of age, is down to regular exercise, a healthy diet and a positive mind-set.

I go to the local council run gym 5 days a week, where over 60s do not have to pay for the use of the equipment. Isn’t that a marvellous incentive to get older people in to gyms! I personally have a program. I start off with the rowing machine, it’s a form of stretching before you use the other machines. Then I go on to the cross trainer and then the treadmill (which is much safer to walk on in winter time than icy pavements). After that I do cycling and various arm exercise machines. Lastly I do exercises lifting various size weights. Going to dance classes and learning new steps is also physically and mentally great, and is so enjoyable, making new friends.

This all keeps your muscles, heart and lungs in good shape as well as following a healthy diet.

For breakfast I have wholegrain Weetabix, a scoop of raisins, nutty bran muesli and a scoop of sunflower seeds. Lunch is a wide selection of fruits and 1 or 2 carrots, and a scoop of whole pecan nuts. Dinner is meat, chicken or fish and steamed vegetables. I do have a few treats occasionally, which is fine, as long as the treats are less than 10% of your overall diet. I drink lots of water which is essential so your body doesn’t get dehydrated. I take q10 (co-enzyme0 for an energy and stamina boost), vitamin c to boost my immune system and omega 3 (fish oil) which helps maintain normal function of the heart, brain and vision.

I enjoy lots of different hobbies – gardening, walking, reading, movies, music, history and travel.

I have been living in Gloonan house independent living scheme for over 7 years and I just love it! I do so enjoy being part of the Gloonan ‘family’. Looking from all aspects, the staff here are just amazing and are hugely responsible for making us feel this is truly our home. They keep us occupied and happy with various activities

to improve our physical and mental wellbeing. We have weekly lunch club and coffee mornings, computer classes, reminiscence groups, museum trips, afternoon teas, quizzes, music evenings, armchair exercises, guest speakers, trips out and about, visits from the council, to name but a few.

Studies have repeatedly proved that keeping physically and mentally active has a positive effect on overall health. A balanced lifestyle reduces the risk of falls and fractures and helps reduce blood pressure and mentally gives a feeling of belonging and purpose which could offset depression.People with mobility issues or sight and hearing or mental health conditions can take part in and enjoy activities that are tailored to their needs. The secret is doing something that makes you feel good and gets you moving and involved with others. That is something we can all do!

Take care, have fun, be happy, live a full life, and enjoy investing in yourself. You are worth it.

INVEST IN YOURSELF!!


by Maureen Pearce, Gloonan House, Ahoghill


Eating a gluten-free diet doesn’t mean missing out on sweet treats. Why not try this gluten free strawberry cupcake recipe today?! Strawberries and cream make a lovely dessert. In a cupcake they’re sublime!

GLUTEN FREE CUPCAKES

Makes: 12 cupcakesPrep time: 20 minsCooking time: 18-20 mins

Ingredients

• 240ml whole milk

• 1 tbsp sunflower oil

• 2 eggs

• 260g all purpose gluten-free flour

• 3 ½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• 3/8 tsp xanthan gum

• 250g caster sugar/ granulated sugar

• 70 g unsalted butter, softened

• 150g strawberries (hulled and quartered)

• 200ml double cream

• 2tbsp icing sugar

• 2 tbsp cornflour

• 12 fresh strawberries to garnish

Method1. Preheat the oven to 190°C/

375°F/ Gas Mark 5 2. In a jug, combine the milk, oil

and eggs3. To a large bowl add the flour,

baking powder, salt, xanthan gum, sugar and butter

4. Using an electric mixer slowly combine the dry ingredients and butter until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Continue on a slow speed and add the wet ingredients. Once combined, turn the speed to medium and mix for 3-5 minutes or until thickened.

5. Divide the mixture evenly between the cases, so they are under two-third full.

6. Take 3 or 4 strawberry pieces per cake and push them into the cupcake batter, evenly spaced apart.

7. Bake for 18-20 mins or until they are risen, golden and spring back when pressed lightly.

8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

9. Once the cupcakes are completely cold, whisk together the double cream, icing sugar and cornflour until it starts to stiffen.

10. Cover the top of each cupcake with the cream mixture and just before

serving garnish with fresh strawberries.

11. Store in the fridge and eat within 2 days

Enjoy!

Do you have any easy, tasty recipes that you would like to see featured in the next edition of the Clanmil Chronicle? Send them our way! We’d love to hear from you and there’s a £30 supermarket voucher up for grabs if your recipe is featured.

Emma KernohanClanmil Housing Group3 Waring StreetBelfast BT1 2DXor [email protected]


Recent research published by the Commissioner for Older People Northern Ireland revealed that sadly one in every five older people in Northern Ireland is likely to be experiencing some sort of financial abuse. As well as financial, abuse suffered by older people can take the form of emotional, verbal, physical, sexual or institutional abuse and neglect.

At Clanmil we are committed to working practices that promote the wellbeing of all of our tenants. There is legislation in place to protect adults at risk and we have a responsibility to develop awareness amongst our tenants about issues that could potentially cause them harm.

Our staff are trained and supported in this area of work and at our coffee mornings we are now trying to raise greater awareness amongst our tenants. So far, attendance and contributions to discussions at the events have been fantastic, generating debate and resulting in challenging discussions as well as individual feedback- which is always welcomed!

We feel that abuse shouldn’t be a taboo subject but one that can be discussed freely. Some of the areas discussed at the sessions include:

• Forms of abuse including scams

• Who can abuse

• How to report concerns• What to do if someone reports

a concern to you • Potential alerts to abuse• Roles and responsibilities of

our staff

If you would like more information your Scheme Co-ordinator or Housing Officer will be happy to help you. You can also be assured that you can speak to any of our staff in confidence about any concerns you may have.

There are also a number of useful resources available at elderabuse.org.uk, copini.org.uk or through The Silver Line on

0800 4708090.

Since December we have been inviting tenants at our Independent Living and older peoples’ housing schemes to a series of special coffee mornings tackling the challenging but important topic of staying safe.

BE AWARE – STAY SAFE


Modern apartments available to rentOur independent living and active ageing schemes offer an active lifestyle, a friendly environment and support when you need it.Available to rent now - perfect for you, a loved one or friend

[email protected]

www.clanmil.org

@ClanmilHousing

Clanmil Housing Association

clanmil_housing

Clanmil Housing Association,

Northern Whig House,

3 Waring Street,

BELFAST

BT1 2DX

AVAILABLE

TO RENT NOW

For more information or to view these properties call us on 028 9087 6000

SCHEME TYPE

Gloonan House, Ahoghill 3 bedroom house

Moatview Court, Ballymena 1 bedroom, ground floor apartment

Slemish Court, Ballymena 1 bedroom, ground floor apartment

Harmony Court, Belfast 1 bedroom, ground floor apartment

Church Mews, Dungannon 1 bedroom, first floor apartment

Forest Glen, Glenarm 1 bedroom, first floor apartment

Glenshesk Court, Ballycastle 1 bedroom, first floor apartment

Cook Court, Newtownards 1 bedroom, first floor apartment

Documents

CHRONICLE - Clanmil Housing Association · 2017. 3. 13. · 6 | Clanmil Housing Group In 2016 we raised an impressive total of £12,421.20 for Lighthouse Fundraising events since