Issue 57 • Summer 2020 north news · Issue 57 • Summer 2020 North Glasgow community supported...

north news

In this issue:Covid-19Information pages 4 - 8

Friday Night ‘Stay Safe, Stay In’initiative launched page 15

One Vision: A community where people can flourish and prosper

Issue 57 • Summer 2020

North Glasgowcommunity supportedby incredible

Angels of the North

Finance and Help atHand during thesechallenging times pages 27 - 29

Do you believe in Angels?At ng homes we certainly do. During these challenging times there hasbeen evidence of ‘Angels’ living amongst us who have been givingtheir time to support members of the North Glasgow community.

Read about the Angels of the North on pages 12-13!

Dom and Ronnie from ng homes

delivering essential food in the

community

ng homes staff and volunteers at Springburn Parish Church

Ronier Deumeni, Founder of African Challenge Scotland with volunteers, Glasgow City CouncillorGraham Campbell, local MP Anne McLaughlin and the Lord Provost of Glasgow Philip Braat

ng FUN

WHAT’S HAPPENIng

2 | north news

Welcome...I hope you and your families

are keeping safe and well

during these unprecedented

times and I am delighted to

welcome you to the 57th issue

of North News.

As you will be aware, following the UK

Government directive in regard to the

Covid-19 pandemic all our offices

were closed from Tuesday 24 March

and have remained closed since then.

However, it should be noted that

throughout the crisis a number of staff

have continued to provide essential

front-line services such as the

Concierge, members of the

Regeneration and Housing Services

teams and ng2 staff. In addition, staff

in other departments have also been

working hard behind the scenes.

These staff have been maintaining

vital day-to-day services to our

tenants and factored owners and

have been available on-site to

respond to emergency situations and

provide support to vulnerable people.

It was important that all of the staff

who could work from home were

provided with the equipment to do so

and we acted quickly to allow this to

happen.

As the UK and Scottish Governments

ease the lockdown measures, we

need to remain vigilant. Our staff are

currently working to develop and

implement measures to support the

reopening of our offices when it is

safe to do so and to ensure that they

are safe places for staff and visitors

alike. Before we return, the offices will

be thoroughly deep cleaned, and the

appropriate health and safety

measures will be put in place in

compliance with the Government

guidelines. You can read more about

our approach regarding this on the

next few pages.

Our staff are working hard to ensure

that we continue to provide an

excellent level of service to our tenants

and other customers during these

challenging times and on behalf of

the Association’s Board I would like to

thank all our staff for their continued

commitment and hard work during

the Covid-19 pandemic. I would also

like to thank you, our tenants and

customers, for your support and

understanding at this challenging

time.

As we approach the end of the

Scottish Government’s Route Map,

I’m sure that you will agree with me

that it will be good to get back to

some sort of ‘normality’. In the

meantime, I hope you find this issue of

North News enjoyable and

informative.

Stay safe!

John ThorburnChairperson, ng homes

Pages 9 to 20COMMUNITYNEWS ANDSTORIES

Pages 21 to 26ng UPDATES

7 to 29FINANCE / HELP ATHAND

Pages 30 to 32HELPFULINFORMATION

Pages 4 to 8and 33, 34 & 36COVID-19INFORMATION

1st October 2019 to 30th June 2020We know we are not perfect however we are striving to achieveexcellence in all aspects of customer service. We recognise thatfrom time to time some things can go wrong, we’re only humanafter all, but our aim is to rectify things quickly and effectively, andpermanently improve our services in the process.

Number of complaints received in the period = 130

92% of complaints were responded to within our target timescales.

Our Complaints Handling Procedure was developed by the ScottishPublic Service Ombudsman in partnership with the housing sector.A guide to our complaints procedure is available at our offices, onour website and you can phone us and ask us to send you one out.

WHAT’S HAPPENIng

north news | 3

SERVICE AREA

Contractors23%

Investment11%Factoring

8%

Complaints 1st October 2019 to 30th June 2020

Repairs21%

HousingServices

37%

COMPLAINTS UPHELD

Upheld57%

Not Upheld43%

Compliments during the period included:

Good customer service.

Thanks for arrangingfurniture deliveryand food parcel.

No heating and hot

water - I have to say

how lucky I was to

have yourself, you

were lovely, helpful

and understanding

and I so appreciate

that. Thank you!

Thank you to allthe Conciergefor their help.

Thanks foropening upthe laundryevery week.

Thanks to the closecleaning team forattending duringCOVID and doinga fantastic job.

Thanks for help

with heating and

thoughtfulness.

Thanks forhelp withmove.

Can you pass on mythanks to everyone inng2 for everythingthey are doing duringthis strange time, Iam proud of you allfor doing a great job!

The ng2 team are

doing a great job

during these trying

times.

Thanks for cuttingthe grass promptly,it looks fantastic.

I can’t thank you enough for

the food parcel and the hot

meal that I get every day.

The people who deliver them

are just so friendly. I have

been feeling quite lonely and

anxious and the telephone

calls really help, it’s good to

have someone on the end of

a phone who cares.

Thanks forattending toaerial problems.

Our Performance: Complaints and Compliments

COVID-19 INFORMATION

4 | north news

SocialDistancing

SocialDistancing

ANTIBACTERIAL

GEL

Planning for a safereopening of offices andreturn to the workplaceA group of staff have been holdingregular Safe Return to the Workplaceplanning meetings over the last fewmonths. There are a whole range of issuesto be considered and addressed to planand facilitate a safe reopening of ouroffices and return to work. This will ensurethat we are ready to proceed wheneverthe Scottish Government confirm that it issafe to do so.

The meetings have generated a wide-ranging listof issues to be considered including:

• Conducting comprehensive COVID-19 RiskAssessments

• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

• Altered workplace (office/site) layouts

• Changes to shift patterns and start/finish times

• Procedures to maintain social distancing

• Cleaning regimes

• Handwashing and hygiene procedures

• New workplace safety procedures / rules

• On-site fire safety and first aid

• Introducing temperature checks

• Home working

• HR considerations incl. staff mental health &wellbeing

• Staff communication

• Staff training

• Public transport concerns

This has identified over 80 actions to be completedand these have been incorporated into acomprehensive Action Plan. In addressing thesematters, we are taking account of guidance from

the appropriate bodies such as the UK andScottish Governments, the Health and SafetyExecutive (HSE) and ACAS. The Association hasalso considered guidance from professionalgroups such as the Chartered Institute ofPersonnel and Development (CIPD) and sectororganisations such as the Scottish Federation ofHousing Associations (SFHA), Employers inVoluntary Housing (EVH) and the Scottish HousingRegulator (SHR) and we are liaising with ourHealth & Safety Advisers ACS to validate ourprocess and the measures we are implementing.

Although there still remains uncertainty regardingwhen exactly the Scottish Government guidelineswill allow a safe opening of our offices, one thingthat is certain is that reopening the workplace andgetting back to ‘normal’ is not going to be as easyas it was to close it down back in March. Thestories that we are all hearing in the news justreinforces the scale and complexity of ensuring asafe return to work across all sectors.

Employers have a duty to provide safe workingenvironments. It is going to be a step-by-stepprocess, but we need to be working now toensure the workplace is safe and ready for all staffto return as soon as we get the official go-ahead.As mentioned in the Chairperson’s Welcome,before we reopen, the offices will be thoroughlydeep cleaned and the appropriate health andsafety measures will be put in place to ensure theoffices are safe for both staff and visitors and thiswill be a top priority for the Association over thecoming weeks.

In the next section you can read about how we willstructure and deliver our services over the nextfew months. We will be updating this informationon a regular basis and we will post any changesto our services and information on how you canaccess these on our website www.nghomes.net


north news | 5

ng homes Route Mapout of Covid-19As you will be aware, Covid-19 has meant significantchanges to how we deliver our services to our customerssince lockdown in March 2020.

It has been a difficult time for everyone and we thank you for yourpatience during such an uncertain time. However, with the currenteasing of restrictions we are now in a position to reintroduce someof our services.

At the start of lockdown (Phase 1), we had staff working from homedelivering an emergency service. We continued to have a limitedconcierge service in place who also took on the role of anemergency contact for all our tenants outwith office hours.We maintained our gas servicing, emergency repairs andcontinued to provide our money advice service provided by GEMAPover the phone. We contacted around 250 of our most vulnerablehouseholds every week and we also worked with partners in thecommunity to deliver shopping and cooked meals to our tenantswho were shielding.

During Phase 2, we started to reintroduce some services and wehad staff working from home dealing with Arrears, Anti-SocialBehaviour and Estate Management issues and we recommencedour Housing Options appointments over the phone, as well asmaintaining our services to our most vulnerable households.

As we start to move through Phase 3, we have some staff back inour offices to deliver some services that we can’t deliver from

home, such as viewingsand sign-ups. Theseservices will be carriedout adhering to socialdistancing guidelinesand with the correctPPE. During this phase,we will not be openingour offices to ourcustomers. Please beassured, that this is toensure the safety ofour staff andcustomers.

We will, however, keep our website and twitter up-to-date with changes as they happen.

Attached is a route map of what we expect our services to look likeduring Phase 3 and Phase 4, but please be aware this maychange due to changes in Scottish Government guidance.

If you have any queries or concerns regarding this, please contactus on 0141 560 6000 and we will be happy to answer them.

Take care and stay safe.

Lynne Cooper

Director of Housing Services

Service Phase 3 Phase 4Getting intouch with us

As we enter Phase 3 of lockdown - our offices will remainclosed to the public and our staff will be mainly working fromhome. You will still be able to speak to our Housing Servicesand Factoring Teams over the phone. During Phase 3, we will start to recommence home visits forArrears and Anti-Social Behaviour, while adhering to socialdistancing guidance. You can contact us Monday to Friday 9am-5pm on 0141 5606000.

We anticipate that we will begin toopen our offices during Phase 4,depending on Scottish Governmentguidance.This service will operate on anappointment only basis to ensure ouroffices do not become overcrowded.We will provide further information onthis, as soon as it is available.

Repairs andMaintenance

We will be continuing with our emergency life and limb service,however during Phase 3 we will start to introduce urgent androutine repairs as well as disabled adaptations.We will also recommence our external works, i.e. roof andgutter maintenance.

We will be working on emergency,urgent and routine repairs, as well asour cyclical maintenance programme.

…continued on page 6


6 | north news

Service Phase 3 Phase 4InvestmentWorks

During Phase 3, we will not be carrying out any investmentworks in tenant’s homes.Work on our new build site will be undertaken in such away as to ensure social distancing between siteoperatives.In existing buildings, works will be undertaken to roofs,external areas, communal areas and void properties. Staff will be issued with appropriate PPE and will undergosite inductions with contractors prior to entering sites.

We will commence work in tenants’ homes inline with Scottish Government guidance. Workwill be undertaken with appropriate socialdistancing measures to ensure the healthand safety of tenants, staff and site operativesat all times.

Moving to aNew House

The Scottish Government guidance has changed andrestrictions on house moves have been lifted.

During Phase 3, we will reintroduce viewings and sign-upsand we will restart our End of Tenancy Inspections.

We will restart our New Tenant Visits whichwill take place 4-6 weeks after keys areissued.

ConciergeServices

Our Concierge Service will be delivering a full service andwill continue to assist our tenants where possible, whileobserving social distancing guidelines.

As Phase 3.

LandscapeMaintenance/EstateServices

Our Landscape Maintenance and Back Court teams will bedelivering a full service. Except for pulling through bulk, asthis is currently a service that Glasgow City Council havesuspended.

Tenants and owners should not put out bulk, as itwill not be lifted.

Our Housing Officers will recommence fullestate and close inspections.

CommunityRegenerationServices

Our community activities have been suspended due toCovid-19.

We will continue to work in line with Scottish Governmentguidelines to introduce some activities followingappropriate social distancing measures.

This may include outdoor activities/use of transport toparticipate in activities for smaller groups of people.

We will keep tenants updated via our website/socialmedia platforms and telephone calls.

We anticipate some community activitiestaking place during phase 4 (indoor andoutdoor) with social distancing in place andfollowing Scottish Government guidelines.Groups will be held with smaller numbersattending to ensure compliance.

This would include activities forchildren/young people/older adults andcultural groups. Group sessions will be heldfor smaller numbers.

This may include outdoor activities/use oftransport to allow for smaller groups toparticipate in activities.

Get in touchCall 0141 560 6000Email [email protected] www.nghomes.netTwitter @ng_homesMedia Centre www.mediacentre.nghomes.net


north news | 7

We are members of EVH and all members are being issued with advice and guidance on safety measures relating to Covid-19.Here is some helpful information for our service users covering what to expect if we need to visit your home and what we may ask you before we book an appointment.

To help us prepare for our visit there are a few simple questions our staff will ask before coming to see you:

Are you or any members of your family displaying symptoms of Coronavirus, such as high temperature, new and near persistent cough, or loss of taste or smell?

Are you or any of your family considered vulnerable or have you been self-isolating?

Are you happy for us to enter your home and do you understand that we may need further access within it?

Before our staff member enters your home there are some simple steps you can take to help us do so safely. If possible, please:

Leave all internal doors open

Leave windows open forventilation

Where possible other occupants of the house should vacate the property and stay together in one area such as the driveway or garden or, congregate in one other room

Continued on page 8

Keep clear pathwayswithin the home, and free of any obstructions

Keep all areaswell-lit and open window coverings

Shut pets away safely within another room

8 simple steps our staff always take to ensure everyone’s safety


8 | north news

At all times, our staff will ask questions from a safe distance and where possible will do this from outside of the property.

Our staff will or sanitise their hands before and after every home they visit.

Our staff may wear a fresh pair of disposable gloves at each home they visit. They will dispose of used gloves safely without compromisingyou.

Similarly, where required,staff may wear a fresh facecovering at each home they visit. They will dispose of these safely without compromising you.

Any equipment our staff may use will be disinfected before andafter each use.

To minimise the time we spend within your home, we will try to complete our notes and forms outside of your property.

Our staff will take care to keep their own clothes clean during visits and will also wear fresh workweardaily.

Where we have to spend a long time (or stayovernight) in your home, it may not be practical to stick rigidly to all of the above standards (for examplekeeping pets locked up overnight),but we will do all that we can to minimise risk to everyone within the home, including ourown staff.

gaff.

We are happy to confirm

that we have complied

with the government’s

guidance on managing

the risk of Covid 19.

This guidance is often

referred to as

“Five Steps to Safer Working Together”.

This poster explains the

five steps.

COMMUNITY NEWS AND STORIES

north news | 9

The Association has been workinghard to support vulnerabletenants and families in NorthGlasgow during theseunprecedented times. Our housing and communityregeneration teams have been phoningour most vulnerable tenants, checkingin and finding out what help theyrequire. Hot meals are also beingprovided to those who are in particulardifficulty due to age or underlying healthconditions.

We have partnered with severalorganisations including: Possobilities,Possilpoint Community Centre,Springburn Parish Church and PartickThistle Community Trust/Progrezamongst others. The Baby Food Bankhas also provided much neededsupport to families.

Lynne Cooper, Director of HousingServices at ng homes said:“Our housing and communityregeneration teams are workingtogether to support our customers andthe North Glasgow community duringthe Coronavirus crisis. Our team havebeen phoning vulnerable customers tofind out what assistance they may need,and we have been arranging this forthem. We understand that therestrictions in place will have a profoundimpact on families and vulnerabletenants and we are dedicated to gettingthem the support they require.”

Margaret Fraser, Head ofRegeneration at ng homes said:“The work of community organisationshas been outstanding with staff andvolunteers working incredibly hard tohelp out their community. We would liketo say a huge Thank You to everyonewho has pulled together in a time ofextreme need.”

Volunteers at Lambhill Stables preparing food parcels

Childrens Activity Packsprepared by New Rythmsfor Glasgow

Dom McInally from ng homes delivering tothe Brunswick Centre with Greg Lennonwho runs the centre

Volunteers uplifting dontationsfor The Glasgow North BabyFood Bank

John Thorburn, Chairperson of ng homes commented:

“There is great work happening right here in our community and I am proud to see peoplecome together to support those who need it most. At ng homes we will continue to serveour customers and community in the best and safest way we can during this pandemic.Thank you to all the hardworking volunteers, our partner organisations and ng homes staffand Board members who have gone above and beyond and shown kindness anddedication to serve the North Glasgow community.”

If you know of anyone who requires assistance, please email ng homes:[email protected]. Please provide your details and a contact number/emailand a member of our team will be in touch to help.We encourage you to keep yourself informed by following Governmentguidelines and advice issued by the NHS.

ng homes dedicated to supportingthe North Glasgow communityduring the Coronavirus crisis

10 | north news


We have teamed up with the ScottishFire and Rescue Service (SFRS), PoliceScotland and local communityorganisations to provide and deliverafternoon teas to elderly residentsand those who are shielding in theNorth Glasgow community.The afternoon tea initiative launched in earlyJune with the support of Possobilities a localcommunity organisation based inPossilpark. 125 afternoon teas weredelivered on the first day within three of ourRetirement Complexes and to individuals inthe wider community.

The initiative aimed to reach around 600people in the North Glasgow community.The Association will be working alongsidePartick Thistle Charitable Trust, Progrez andSnack @ Jax to provide these afternoonteas.

The afternoon tea goody bags were filledwith rolls kindly provided by McGhee’sBakery, cakes and a delicious cherry sconeprovided by Lomond Foods and all toppedup with jam and clotted cream. Vital safetyflyers from SFRS and Police Scotland werealso included, along with one of our recentarticles which highlighted the work of localvolunteers.

Karla Stevenson, Fire Officer at theScottish Fire and Rescue Service said:

“This is a fantastic initiative which will notonly provide a lovely afternoon tea, but it letsmembers of our community who areshielding or self-isolating know that theScottish Fire and Rescue Service and ourpartners are still here for them. Thispandemic has been challenging in so manyways and unfortunately there has also beenan increase in accidental house fires thisyear but initiatives like this will help us reachthose who need us – we can provide freehome fire safety advice and provide smokealarms. If you know someone who is over50, smokes and either lives alone or hasmobility issues or uses medical oxygen thenplease make the call – call us on 0800731333 or text ‘fire’ to 80800 to put them intouch with us.”

Anne McLaughlin, MPfor Glasgow North Eastwho helped deliver thetreats to local residentssaid:

“People are doing theirbest, sticking to the rulesthat keep everyone safe,and life can be difficult.Locally, we are veryorganised in terms of foodprovision and moving ourattention to emotionalwellbeing. This lovelygesture combines the two– a wee treat that says, ‘wehaven’t forgotten you’.Many people have barelybeen out of their homessince March and we areaware of the hugepsychological pressure thisis putting on people. Thecommunity afternoon teaall across the North ofGlasgow is a lovely idea and I want to thankall the organisations involved.”

Richard Porter MBE, Vice Chairpersonof ng homes said:

“It’s been a very challenging time for peoplewho have been shielding now for over 10weeks. The calls our staff are making topeople are showing that they are missinghuman contact and this, in turn, increases asense of loneliness and anxiety. Many hadpreviously taken part in community activitiesthat ng homes’ regeneration team provided,

such as the monthly Song Shimmy,Welcome to the Community and CommunityAfternoon Tea activities, so we thought that ifwe can’t get them to an afternoon tea thenwe would take it to them.”

In addition to the afternoon teas, ng homesis currently working with a variety oforganisations and businesses to supportcommunity members with food parcels andother forms of support which has beenmade possible through existing fundingfrom The Scottish Government and theNational Lottery.

Melanie, Glen and Jim from Possobilities, Karla from SFRS, Brian and Magdalena from Police Scotland,Glasgow City Councillor Graham Campbell, Bailie Jacqueline McLaren, Ann McLaughlin MP, Paul Kelly, Manager of Partick Thistle Charitable Trust and Dom and Margaret from ng homes

The goody bags were filled withrolls, cakes, a delicious cherryscone with clotted cream and jam,along with some other treats!

The Afternoon Tea bags have been prepared and areready to be delivered in the North Glasgow community!

Bob Doris MSP, Bailie JaquelineMcLaren, Stephanie (ng homes)and Glasgow City Councillor AllanGow delivering afternoon teas!

North Glasgow communitywelcome an afternoon tea treat

north news | 11


In North Glasgow wehave an incrediblegroup of volunteerswho are workingalongside theAssociation to supporttheir local community.When a young Glasgowwoman heard aboutthis she wanted to helpand got in touch withus to say that she wasmaking ‘home mademasks’ and would liketo donate some to thevolunteers.

Briege Ward Foley’s motivation was to impact on the shortage ofmasks together with the fact that the NHS needed masks as apriority without the public draining resources. So she started onher mission of making these for family and friends.

Briege said:

“I wanted to make them kind of ‘funky’ so they are not frighteningfor children and a bit fun to wear. The fabric I have chosenincludes a haribo pattern, unicorns, paisley pattern and spots.They are really fun to make and I hope that people enjoy wearingthem as much as I have enjoyed making them.”

Margaret Fraser, Head of Regeneration at ng homes said:

“When I heard about what Briege was doing I was reallyimpressed and agreed to uplift them, keeping our socialdistancing of course. Briege had over 70 bright and colourfulmasks ready for us and the next day we started to hand theseout to the volunteers. The fact that they are so sturdy, with aninner layer, and can be washed and re-used was a benefit. Theyfit so well and look good too – so our heartfelt thanks go to Briegefor helping out.”

So far, the masks have been given out to volunteers at SpringburnParish Church and members of the Baby Food Bank. Otherswere passed out to volunteers at Possobilities, The Arc steeringgroup and Love Milton who were absolutely delighted.

Bailie Jaqueline McLaren was on hand at Possobilities inPossilpark when the masks were being handed out and was so

impressed with them, she asked if some could be distributed tovolunteers in the Milton area. She commented:

“When Margaret showed me the really cool masks I knew thelocal volunteers from Milton would absolutely love them. Theywanted a team photo to highlight their thanks and appreciationto Briege for making these brilliant creations. I have a Unicornone which I love. Thank you Briege for thinking of others duringthis crisis.”

Glasgow North East MP, Anne McLaughlin said:

“The masks are fantastic, they look great and I think people willfeel less self conscious about wearing Briege's designs. Anythingthat encourages folk to wear them when they are in shops or onpublic transport is really helpful. What a great use of time stuckindoors.”

Facemasks donated tovolunteers in North Glasgow

Margaret Fraser, Head of Regeneration atng homes visits Briege Ward Foley to collectmasks for North Glasgow volunteers

Cathie Yuill (Baby Food Bank), Helen Carroll (SpringburnParish Church) with ng homes staff Dom and Ronnie

Volunteers show their appreciation to Briege whilst wearing their masks

12 | north news


On a daily basis volunteers fromvarious organisations have beenlinking up and working togetherwith ng homes to help sort foodparcels, uplift prescriptions, andprepare and deliver hot meals tothose who are self-isolating orshielding during the strict lockdownmeasures.

Volunteers have also been checking in withpeople and keeping their spirits up throughregular phone calls, while also finding outif they need any assistance.

The selflessness and kindness of thevolunteers is testament to the wonderfulcommunity spirit that has always been soevident in the wider North Glasgow area.

ng homes would like to take thisopportunity to say thank you to theincredible volunteers who are workingtirelessly to support the North Glasgowcommunity during this crisis. A big thankyou to:

• Springburn Parish Church

• Possobilities

• Baby Food Bank

• Salvation Army (Springburn)

• Young Peoples Futures

• Partick Thistle Charitable Trust

• Brunswick Centre

• Glasgow Afghan United

• African Challenge Scotland

• Glasgow Chinese Recreation Centre

• Sunshine Wishes Charity

• Lambhill Stables

ng homes is delighted to have receivedsupport from The National LotteryCommunity Fund. The award of over£81,000 will allow for the provision of foodparcels and hot food for those in need inthe community and will allow twodedicated ng homes staff members tocarry out this vital service.

Neil Ritch, Scotland Director of TheNational Lottery Community Fund said:

“In these uncertain times our priority is toensure that National Lottery moneycontinues to flow to charities, voluntarysector organisations and grassroots

Volunteers Robert Young, Terry Campbelland Helen Carroll with Dom McInallyfrom ng homes

North Glasgow communitysupported by incredibleAngels of the North

north news | 13


groups. I would like to congratulate ng homes on their award, theirs isan important project which will help people get through the currentcrisis and a great example of how our grant holders are stepping upto support their communities.”

Additional support has been given by The Scottish Government with anaward of £30,000. The funds will support the project for one year andng homes will work to support tenants and the wider community.

ng homes have received many comments of appreciation fromtenants for the key service that has been provided by the Associationand partner organisations. One tenant said:

“I can’t thank you enough for the food parcel and the hot meal that Iget every day. The people who deliver them are just so friendly. I havebeen feeling quite lonely and anxious and the telephone calls reallyhelp, it’s good to have someone on the end of a phone who cares.”

Bob Doris MSP said:

“Our communities in North Glasgow have come together in the mostwonderful way to help those in great need at this hugely challengingtime. My heartfelt thanks to everyone - the housing associations, youthgroups, churches, local traders and various community organisations.Many locals have volunteered to ensure that food, medicines andother essential items have been delivered to struggling households inrecent weeks. With 100,000 new claimants for Universal Credit inScotland in just 5 weeks, that amount of need is likely to grow and bewith us for some time. I am privileged to play my part working with somany inspiring people in the communities I am proud to represent.”

John Thorburn, Chairperson of ng homes commented:

“It is incredible to see community members and local organisationscome together to support the wider community during thesechallenging times. I’d like to thank all the hardworking volunteers andstaff who are providing support to our customers.”

ng homes would like to thank the Scottish Government andthe National Lottery who are providing funding to maintainservices supporting the community.

Dom and Ronnie deliver donations from Lomond Foods toFather Alan at St Gregory’s Parish Church

Progrez preparinghot meals to go outinto the community

Essential food items in Springburn Parish Church that willgo to families and vulnerable people in the community

Gary Walker Butchers deliveringdonations in the community

14 | north news


ng homes has been workingalongside Partick Thistle CharitableTrust and Progrez as part of our foodresponse during the Covid-19pandemic. Since lockdown they have been providingdaily hot meals to those in the community whohave been shielding. This has beenwelcomed by people in the community whonot only get to enjoy a delicious meal but haveremarked on how much they enjoy seeing thefriendly faces of the volunteers and theopportunity for a wee chat. Partick ThistleCharitable Trust have shown their outstandingteam spirit which demonstrates theimportance of their place in the NorthGlasgow community.

In the eighteenth week of lockdown, the Trustalong with the Chairperson of the charity,Randle Wilson, celebrated providing a total of25,000 meals to the North Glasgowcommunity with elected members, staff,volunteers and partners. Randle thanked theTrust and all the partners involved for thisamazing achievement and for supporting thecommunity during these challenging times.

Randle Wilson, Chairperson of PartickThistle Charitable Trust commented:

“This milestone of 25,000 meals deliveredduring the Covid lockdown period is atestament to the hard work and compassionof the staff at Partick Thistle Charitable Trust,Progrez and ng homes. The individualsconcerned have shown a great commitmentto the service and it simply would not haveworked without all of them pulling together toensure that our residents get a nutritious mealwith fresh ingredients delivered with a smileeach day. This achievement is a livingexample of what can happen when goodpartners get together and take a transparentand positive approach to the challenge.”

Glasgow City Councillor, Allan Gow said:

“When I first met with Partick Thistle CharitableTrust in 2018, it was to assist their involvementwith Glasgow City Council’s new ‘holidayhunger’ programme. Neither Paul Kelly(Manager of Partick Thistle Charitable Trust)nor I could have dreamt that two years laterwe would be marking the Trust’s 25,000thfood package! It is a quite incredibleachievement and could not have beendelivered without a real team effort involving

Partick Thistle FC, ng homes, the NationalLottery, Glasgow City Council and the ScottishGovernment. But the real stars are thevolunteers who actually make the food, whogo to the cash & carry, who pack the bags,who use their own transport to deliver to thosein need locally and who keep turning up weekafter week! Without their commitment, theprogramme would not have been asextensive and many who needed supportmight not have received it, so I want to thankall of them for what they have done. And it’snot just about practical food support. Duringthe Covid-19 Crisis, many people we visitedwere shielding and as time went on came tolook forward more and more to a wee visitand chat with their delivery driver. Thisongoing contact was every bit as important asthe food items and keeping isolated people ‘intouch’ is something we now turn our minds toas some sense of normality returns. Onceagain, the crisis has allowed our GlasgowNorth communities to show their mettle, tolook after those who need it, to work togetherand across boundaries and to make newconnections and friendships which cancontinue long after this crisis has passed. I am proud to have been a part of it.”

Partick ThistleCharitable Trustcelebrates its25,000th mealsince lockdown

Partick Thistle Charitable Trust Chairperson Randle Wilson and Manager Paul Kelly withBob Doris MSP, Glasgow City Councillor Allan Gow, Partick Thistle Manager Ian McCall andChief Executive Gerry Britton, and Head of Regeneration at ng homes Margaret Fraser

Over the past year there has beenongoing work and plans for Possilparkto become a Business ImprovementDistrict (BID). This has been madepossible through funding and supportfrom Scotland’s Towns Partnershipsand is being hosted by ng homes.Driven by local traders, a steering group to takethis forward has been formed with funds madeavailable through the Scottish Government.One of the team’s early successes has been tosecure funds from Glasgow City Council to starta programme of improving local shop fronts,

which will make a huge improvement to thearea visually with the scheme being based onthe heritage of Saracen Street.

Designs have been produced by MurrayRussell Architects who are based on SaracenStreet, with shop signage and lighting in thefirst instance. A planning decision is anticipatedaround August 2020 with works planned tocommence soon thereafter. An exhibitiondisplaying the scheme will be part of a series ofengagement events for property and businessowners and the wider community.

The heritage of thearea has also beena key focus for theImprovementDistrict’s logo. At one time,Saracen Streetwas full of wonderful signwriting, canopies andintricate window displays. Inspired by this retailheritage, the Canal Heritage Fund supportedthe BID with funding to design a logo andcreate an exhibition about Saracen Street whichwill take place this year.

Possilpark Traders rise to the Covid-19 Challenge

With every day ‘feeling the same’for some people we wanted to dosomething special and to brightenup their week, so we teamed upwith local chip shops to provide aFish Tea!

The activity was launched on the 10th Julywith Vito’s Fish and Chip shop based inHawthorn Street. Over 50 suppers weredelivered, together with a personalhygiene pack containing; face masks,gloves, sanitizer, vital safety messagesfrom the Scottish Fire and Rescue Serviceand Police Scotland, the ScottishGovernment’s Route Map and the popularVera Lynn song ‘We’ll meet again’. It wasappropriate that we launched this on theday that face masks became mandatory inshops and also the day that the forcessweetheart, Vera Lynn, was laid to rest.

The activity has been funded by TheScottish Government Wellbeing Fund andwe are looking to take it out to over 600people in the local community with Vito’sChip shop and with home deliveries beingmade by ng homes staff.

The owner Vito Di Nardo said:

“When I was approached by ng homes, Iwas very happy to get involved. It is agreat way to reach people who have beenisolated and I know from experience that a‘chippy’ is a welcome treat. I have beenvery impressed to see the amazing workgoing on in the community during this timeand I and am so full of praise for everyonewho has relentlessly been working for thisproject and others, and this demonstrateshow much they care for this wonderfulcommunity in North Glasgow.”

In the coming weeks ng homes will beworking with ‘Mr Chips’ and ‘Sarry Suppers’on Saracen Street in Possilpark to continueto deliver our ‘Stay Safe, Stay In’ Fish Teas.

Margaret Fraser, Head ofRegeneration at ng homes said:

“During this period we have been workingacross the community and local tradershave been a vital part of responding to theneeds of the community. Possilpark islooking to establish itself as a BusinessImprovement District to revitalise the localshopping area. We are delighted to beworking with a range of local businessesacross Possilpark and Springburn. For

those who have been at home for a goodperiod of time it will be a differentexperience going out shopping which iswhy we included the personal hygienepack and details of what to expect whengoing out shopping. We want to allay anyanxieties that people may feel andencourage them to shop locally and bepart of the overall community again.”

Bob Doris MSP who came along tosupport the launch of the activity said:

“This activity is both tackling social isolationand also supports local businesses and isan excellent use of the ScottishGovernment’s Wellbeing fund. My thanksto ng homes, everyone at Vito’s chippy andall the volunteers. This is proving to be agreat success during these difficult timesand I am delighted to have given mysupport.”

north news | 15


Gary Walker Butchers and ShopsmartConvenience Store and the Post Officeprovided food as part of ng homes’partnership for food parcels and hot meals forthe elderly, those in isolation or with underlyinghealth conditions. Eyepad Opticians offered afree spectacle repair service for older peoplein the community and Possobilities providedfree hot meals to the elderly and vulnerablewhich were accessed through referrals fromhousing staff and other agencies.

Plans are afoot for a series of digitalengagement events to update traders andother interested members of the communityon the progress of this project.

Friday Night ‘Stay Safe,Stay In’ activity is a hitin North Glasgow

Brian Kelly (Eyepad Opticians), Gary Walker (Butchers), Omar Afzal(Shopsmart), David Facenna (Allied Vehicles Ltd), Margaret Fraser(ng homes) Jackie Shearer (BID Consultant) Taken pre-Covid

Margaret Fraser, ng homes with Vito Di Nardo, ownerof Vitos, Egidia Di Nardo and Bob Doris MSP

Jackie Shearer who is the BID Co-ordinator, has been working tosupport local traders and businessesduring lockdown. With many lockdownrestrictions being eased, Saracen Streetshould soon be back in full swingalthough with social distancing in place,of course.

It has not been easy for the businesscommunity these last few months butover lockdown they really came togetherwith the wider community and by workingalongside ng homes’ Regeneration team,food and other services were provided torespond to a range of local needs.


16 | north news

Over the past year ng homes has been working on a veryexciting project that is aimed at local children withinschools and across cultural groups. A children’s bookcalled “The Dream - You Can Do This” has been writtenby author Tony Fitzpatrick who is a former Scottishprofessional footballer.

The main principles of the book include caring for the environment,good citizenship, health and wellbeing, and respect for yourself andothers. The main character of the book, Babakoochi bear, has adream to be a footballer, a bit like the author himself! Tony, who wasborn and brought up in Possilpark, became a professional footballerand is now Chief Executive at St Mirren Football Club.

The project also involved Rossie Stone, founder of Dekko Comics who we previously worked with on community projects turning localchildren’s ideas and thoughts on climate change into two comicstrips – The Green Champions and Journey of the Big CarbonFootprint.

A series of workshops led by Tony and Rossie were delivered andfocussed on exploring with the children what their ‘dreams’ wereand how they would achieve them. Tony told the story of Babakoochi,which was the nickname of his young son Tony who sadly died whenhe was only 6 years old. His openness of personal loss and realisinghis own dream really motivated young people and got them to thinkabout their own aspirations. This was followed by Rossie showingthem techniques to create their own cartoon characters and stories.The story is now well underway, and the book will be a comic bookstyle called ‘The Dream – You Can Do This’. Within the book theRainbow is very symbolic and it is interesting that this also became asymbol of hope during the Covid-19 crisis.

It was intended to release the comic strip to over 3,000 children inthe community after a launch by the children and those involved,

however due to the Covid-19 pandemic this was delayed and we arenow going to launch this through ng homes’ Media Centre and onDekko Comics’ social media platform. So, watch this space!

Tony Fitzpatrick said:

“This has been such a wonderful project. To help the widercommunity of North Glasgow for young and older people to realisetheir potential of how talented and creative they are and given thechance to express themselves. As a local lad growing up in thePossilpark area, I have witnessed over the years how welcomingand friendly the people of North Glasgow are, they are very specialpeople. For myself to get the chance to introduce Babakoochi, who isa legacy for my son, to the wider community is a dream come true.”

Rossie Stone from Dekko Comics said:

“For over 3 years now I have been collaborating with ng homes ondeveloping important messages through the power of comics andbooks. Stories are a great medium where you can communicateclearly and in a fun way to a very wide range of readers, and visualcomics helps unlock their creativity and imagination among youngchildren - as I have found through working with ng homes. There issuch brilliant talent and creativity within the children of NorthGlasgow, as well as very good hearts keen to help make the world abetter place. I am very thankful for the tireless work ng homes does,as I’m sure the communities they help are, and I am honoured tohave been given the opportunity to be a small part of it.”

The project was funded by The Lottery Fund Awards for Allprogramme and we would like to thank them and all the youngpeople, teachers and volunteers who took part for their support.

The Dream –You Can Do This

Rossie Stone and Tony Fitzpatrick delivering a workshop

The rainbow is very symbolic in Tony’sbook and it has also become a symbolof hope during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Tony Fitzpatrick with local schoolchildren

Young people are being taught how to be ‘MoneyWise’ thanks to the Children’s Safety EducationFoundation’s (CSEF) campaign which is beingsponsored by ng homes. The programme is being runat two secondary schools in North Glasgow; All SaintsSecondary School and Springburn Academy.

The CSEF’s Money Wise programme aims to improve students’ lifeskills and future employability by teaching them about all aspects offinancial education over the academic year through the Money Wisebooklet. The booklet provides accessible and fun information on atopic many students struggle with and aims to equip them with theskills they need to succeed after leaving school.

Lynne Cooper, Director of Housing Services at ng homes and JohnThorburn, ng homes Chairperson, visited All Saints Secondary Schoolto see the initiative in action and hear feedback from the pupils. Bothalso gave a short talk to the pupils about the importance of beingmoney wise along with Michael Fitzgerald, who is the school’sLiaison Officer for the Children’s Safety Education Foundation (CSEF).

John Thorburn said: “We are committed to doing all we can to helplocal people succeed and we were delighted to sponsor this greatinitiative. It was great to visit All Saints Secondary and meet the

young people and hear their feedback about the Money Wiseprogramme.”

Lynne Cooper said: “Many of the students at All Saints Secondaryand Springburn Academy could potentially be our future customers,employees or Board members. By providing textbooks that showthem how to set-up bank accounts and pay bills it will stand them ingood stead not just as future customers, but for their life ahead.”

Christine Merrick, Teacher at All Saints Secondary commented:“The Money Wise booklet has been a really useful resource for me asa teacher as it clearly lays out the key financial knowledge a youngadult should have in a simple and accessible format. I have evenlearnt some new things myself! We have had great feedback frompupils who have found the booklet really helpful, including goodfacts and tips!”

Michael Fitzgerald, Schools Liaison Officer for the Children’sSafety Education Foundation said: “In this ever-changing world,learning life skills such as financial literacy is vital for our youngpeople’s development. The CSEFregards the partnership with nghomes in North Glasgow as key inhelping to achieve this.’’

School pupils inNorth Glasgowget ‘MoneyWise’ withgreat initiative

Car Park Bingo!The residents at Hawthorn StreetRetirement Housing Complex enjoyedan afternoon playing bingo, but notas they know it!

As the residents couldn’t play inside in thelounge area, they took bingo outside. Withsocial distancing in place, the residentsgathered out in the car park of thecomplex on a sunny afternoon and playeda few games of bingo!

Car Park Bingo Residents enjoying bingo in the sunshine!

All Saints Secondary School pupils with John Thorburn, ng homes Chairperson,Michael Fitzgerald, Schools Liaison Officer for the Children’s Safety EducationFoundation, and Christine Merrick, Teacher at All Saints Secondary


north news | 17

African Challenge Scotland (ACS) has played amajor role in the relief efforts in Glasgow duringthe Covid-19 lockdown. With the organisation’slong-established community engagement throughmulticultural events and other empowermentprogrammes since 2014, it has a betterunderstanding of the needs of Black Asian MinorityEthnic (BAME) communities.

A huge financial crisis has unfolded in the wake of the Covid-19lockdown among BAME communities with many losing their majorsource of income. African Challenge Scotland has been able tosupport more than 350 BAME families through the support andfunding grants received from the National Emergencies Trustthrough Foundation Scotland, The National Lottery CommunityFund, The Scottish Government, Refugee Survival Trust, ng homesand East Dunbartonshire Food Bank. Through this initiative,engagement with the BAME communities has shown that manyBAME families, especially single parents and refugees, arestruggling to meet the basic family needs during the lockdown.Within the first week, the number of families reaching out forsupport was massive and exceeded 145. This showed that BAMEfamilies were already suffering from unemployment andstruggling under tremendous financial pressure to pay their billsand meet other demands even before the pandemic.

African Challenge Scotland has worked tirelessly to ensure that nofamilies are left without support. This initiative would not have beensuccessful without the effort of many passionate communityvolunteers and young people from across all ethnic backgrounds.Those helping have included the Lord Provost of Glasgow, PhilipBraat, Councillors Graham Campbell, Christina Cannon, RuairiKelly, Annette Christie, Anne McLaughlin MP, Bob Doris MSP, nghomes staff and African Challenge Scotland’s young ambassadorsand adult volunteers. African Challenge Scotland deeplyappreciate the selfless services of the passionate and dedicatedvolunteers who they have always been able to depend on over theyears.

Robert Tamburrini, ng homes Chief Executive said: “The commitment of volunteers organised by African ChallengeScotland and other partner organisations like ng homes toprovide basic groceries to local families during lockdown hasbeen truly remarkable. The time and commitment they put in toassist their neighbours throughout North Glasgow is proofpositive that there is a real sense of community action andspirit.”

Bob Doris MSP for Maryhill and Springburn said: “It has been a privilege to assist African Challenge Scotland offerculturally appropriate food to members of the community whohave been struggling or isolated. Having worked with them overmany years, they never fail to show great community leadership.My heartfelt thanks for everyone’s efforts which have made areal difference right across the communities I represent.”

Anne McLaughlin MP for Glasgow North East said: “The work African Challenge Scotland is doing is so importantand it’s been important to me in my work as an MP. In deliveringfood with them I have met people in extremely isolated positionswho I’ve been able to help. One woman had been in her flat forthree months with her three-month-old baby. When I told her,she could form a bubble with a friend she said she didn’t knowanybody in Glasgow. Not a single person. African ChallengeScotland is getting to the people who need them the most.”

Ronier Deumeni, Founder of African Challenge Scotlandsaid: “Over the last 14 weeks, many of our incredible volunteershave made a difference through their extraordinary acts ofkindness by providing African food parcels, toiletries, feminineproducts, and financial support to BAME families acrossGlasgow and beyond. This was possible with the support fromall our funders, partners and ng homes.”

18 | north news


African ChallengeScotland Covid-19relief and theimpact on BAMEcommunities inGlasgow

Dom and Ronnie from ng homes with Ronier Deumeni,founder of African Challenge Scotland, Anne McLaughlinMP, Glasgow City Councillor Graham Campbell andvolunteers from African Challenge Scotland

north news | 19


African Challenge Scotland haspartnered with Glasgow Theatres totackle workplace diversity and createemployment opportunities for youngpeople in North Glasgow through aninnovative employment programme.While the programme has beenpaused due to the Coronaviruspandemic, the young people will betaking part in the programme whenit is safe to do so and in line withGovernment guidance.

Young people from African ChallengeScotland, Robert Tamburrini Chief Executiveof ng homes and Ronier Deumeni Founderof African Challenge Scotland met in earlyMarch to discuss the partnership and theemployment programme which would beavailable to the young people.

Robert Tamburrini addressed the youngpeople in attendance and encouraged themto take up employment opportunities as itwould allow them to develop their skills,knowledge and experiences which wouldequip them for future prospects.

The purpose of the programme is to diversifythe theatre’s Customer Experience Team andencourage young people to consider theemployment programme as a route intoemployment. The programme will alsopromote and develop a more inclusive anddiverse workplace.

The programme delivered by GlasgowTheatres will support 8 trainees from theGlasgow Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic (BAME)community aged 18 years and over todevelop their skills and knowledge bybecoming part of the front-house team atvarious theatre locations for 6 months. Thetrainees will undergo a varied trainingprogramme with support and supervisionfrom staff in different areas within the team.Training will include delivering excellent

customer service and adhering to thecompany’s procedures and policies.

African Challenge Scotland Founder,Ronier Deumeni said: “This is an amazing opportunity for youngpeople in North Glasgow and beyond. Byconnecting young people with employers,real opportunities are created, and thetrainees can collect a rich and varied skillsetfrom employees in the workplace which willto allow them to enhance their prospectsand life experiences. The aim of theprogramme is to promote and develop amore inclusive and diverse workplace in allsectors, so that everyone in Scotland has theopportunity to fulfil their potential. Thisprogramme is part of an ongoing

commitment to improving the lives of citizensin North Glasgow which began five yearsago with ng homes. We are grateful toGlasgow Theatres and we hope that ourpartnership will grow from strength tostrength.”

ng homes Chairperson, John Thorburnsaid:

“This is an excellent opportunity for youngpeople from the BAME community and I wishevery success to those who take part. nghomes is committed to engaging with allmembers of the North Glasgow communityand we are delighted to continue ourlongstanding partnership with AfricanChallenge Scotland.”

Young people from African Challenge Scotland learningabout the innovative employment programme

Ronier Deumeni, African Challenge Scotland Founder and Robert Tamburrini,Chief Executive of ng homes with young people from African Challenge Scotland

Innovative employmentprogramme benefits young peoplefrom African Challenge Scotland

20 | north news


SpringburnYouth Forumby Emma Porter

The Springburn Youth Forum is made up of a group of young people who aim to champion the voices of youngpeople who live in Springburn, North Glasgow.We want young people in the community to be able to voice their ideas and thoughts on projects in the local area.

We are always looking for more young people to get involved in the Springburn Youth Forum so please get in touch:

Twitter @SpringburnYF Facebook SpringburnYouthFourm Instagram SpringburnYouthFourm

The Hub celebrated its one yearanniversary on 14th February2020! I can’t believe a whole yearhas gone by! It’s been a wonderfulyear, full of discussions, newgroups, new friends and new plans.

This year saw the start and continuation of a number of groups within the Hub, such as Chat and Chill where wewelcome everyone to join us for a goodold natter and tea/coffee, Mind the Menwhere they meet to support mental healthfor men, and ng homes’ Swap Shop. Formore information please visit SpringburnCommunity Council’s Facebook page.Please note that there has been somedisruption due to Covid-19.

Springburn Community Hub

Helen Carroll • Director

Spirit of Springburn C.I.C.

Springburn Community Council

SpringburnCommunityHub by Helen Carroll

During the Coronavirus crisis, Abdul Bostani, Chairperson of GlasgowAfghan United, sprang into action to support those members of theAfghan community and asylum seekers with food support and welfarecalls.

He quickly put together a team of volunteers to help provide culturally appropriatefood to families who had to isolate at home. They have continued to work withfamilies and other partner organisations to support them through this difficult period.

Afghan Unitedprovides much neededsupport to community

Afghan United volunteers preparingto deliver food in the community

north news | 21

ng UPDATES

Since our last issue of North News, we have receivedthe result of our Customer Service Excellence annualreview. The external Assessor, Robert Sullivan wasimpressed by the commitment to customer serviceexcellence that was displayed by staff at all levelswithin the organisation and commented on the highlevel of service being delivered.

It was a very positive review highlighting that the Associationcontinues to meet the Customer Service Excellence Standard with anincrease in the number of areas being assessed as CompliancePlus. The review process focuses on the customer journey and thisinvolved the Assessor speaking to customers, staff, Board membersand partner organisations as well as observing staff interacting withcustomers. The Assessor commented: “You demonstrated that youoperate in a culture of continuous improvement and learning” andhe noted that the Association had made several changes to servicesas a result of analysing customer journeys and improving these.”

The Assessor’s report also highlighted the value of ng homes’approach to partnership working, acknowledging the Association’swork with other organisations to strengthen and broadenpartnerships in ways that benefit customers and the wider

community. He stated:

“You have become a rolemodel and catalyst forchange, you are wellknown for yourcommunity involvementand development workin addition to housingservices.”

Tony Sweeney,Director of CorporateServices at ng homessaid:

“This was anexceptionally goodresult and it istestament to thecommitment of our

Board and staff in ensuring that our tenants and other customers arevalued. The Assessor was keen to understand how we serve andsupport our customers throughout their journey with us and we arepleased that he was able to identify many examples of excellentcustomer service. The report shows that we care about ourcustomers and it has identified a great deal of good practicetogether with some areas for continuous improvement.”

John Thorburn, ng homes Chairperson congratulated theAssociation’s staff on this achievement, commenting:

“Everyone at ng homes is committed to delivering Customer ServiceExcellence and we are delighted to hear that we continue to makeprogress in this regard. The Assessor emphasised that although wewere already performing to a high standard he had seen significantimprovements with the increased level of Compliance Plus. It is greatthat the Assessor has recognised the tremendous work of our staffwho are making a real difference to the lives of local people.”

Customer Service Excellence StandardThe Customer Service Excellence Standard is recognised acrossthe UK and it lies at the heart of an overarching strategy to providepublic services for all customers which are efficient, effective,excellent, equitable and empowering. Customer ServiceExcellence was developed to offer companies and organisationsa practical tool for driving customer-focused change. The foundation of thistool is the CustomerService ExcellenceStandard which testsin great depth thoseareas that researchhas indicated are apriority for customers,with particular focus on delivery, timeliness, information,professionalism and staff attitude.

ng homes maintain the Customer ServiceExcellence Standard

“ng homes was found to have a deepunderstanding of, and commitment to,Customer Service Excellence.”

22 | north news

ng UPDATES

We are delighted to advise ourreaders that the Association hasretained its Investors in PeopleGold status along with the Healthand Wellbeing accreditation for afurther three years.

ng homes has been accredited as an

Investors in People (IIP) organisation since

2002 and has been recognised with the

Gold status and the Health and Wellbeing

award since 2014.

This year the Association undertook a

comprehensive review. Our IIP Specialist,

Alix Malcolm visited the Association for two

days in February to conduct the review of

our Investors in People Gold status and the

Investors in People Health and Wellbeing

Award. The Assessor praised the

contribution of our staff across the business

and recognised the importance placed on

staff development within the Association

and the positive impact our work has on

the North Glasgow community. Following

the review, we received a comprehensive

Assessment Report confirming our

continued accreditation.

The IIP Gold and Health and Wellbeing

Awards reflect the ongoing commitment

and desire of all our staff to develop the

skills, knowledge and attributes to enable

them to provide an excellent service to our

tenants and customers. This positive result

reflects the continued focus on investing in

our people which is passionately

supported by the Association’s Board.

The Assessor met with staff from variousteams and she said:

“I am satisfied that you fully meet therequirements of the Investors in PeopleStandard. I congratulate you on theadditional accreditation at Gold Level. This is a fantastic achievement, and welldeserved.”

ng homes Investors inPeople Gold and Healthand Wellbeing accreditation

Tony Sweeney, ng homes Director ofCorporate Services commented:

“We are delighted to maintain our IIPGold status together with the Health andWellbeing accreditation. I would like tothank our Assessor, Alix Malcolm forcarrying out our review whilst supportingand guiding us along the way. Also, a bigThank You to all our staff who took part inthe process. Overall it was a greatexperience and our Accreditation Reportwill be very useful for us going forward.”

ng homes staff proudly displaying the Investors in People Gold and Health and Wellbeing certificates

ng homes appcoming soon!

north news | 23

ng UPDATES

Rent Consultation 2020For our 2020 rent consultation we invited all tenantsto take part in a survey together with invitations tothree separate events across Springburn andPossilpark.This year we embraced digital methods of communication byinviting tenants to take part via text messages for those wehold mobile numbers for, and through the online form that waspromoted via our Twitter and website.

The rent options were: 3% 3.5% 3.75%

The rent consultation closed on 27th January and we weredelighted that 1,239 tenants took part. The majority of tenantsvoted for the increase option of 3% which was endorsed by ourBoard. Thank you to all our tenants who got involved.

Well done to the winners of our free prize draw for taking partin the consultation!

Housing Officer Terri McChesneywith winners Lynda and James

Congratulations toMarc and Laura

Ann collecting her prizefrom Housing OfficerGordon McFarlane

After the successful launch of ng homes’ new website, an app is also being launched.

The app will allow you to report a repair, apply for a house, access publicationsand much more!

Keep an eye on our Twitter page and website for updates!

If you are interested in being one of the first to try the app, please email:

[email protected]

Twitter: ng_homes

Website: www.nghomes.net

24 | north news

ng UPDATES

Last summer we included an article in North Newsabout our new build development at KeppochhillRoad. We are delighted to update you with ourprogress and are pleased to report that the worksare progressing well on site, despite the Covid-19pandemic. Works started on 25 November 2019 and the excavation of thefoundations and the pile testing is now complete. This was a vitalstep in the construction process. The piling work was extremelynoisy and disruptive, and we thank our residents for theirpatience during this time.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the site and compound was shutdown on 26 March 2020. Cruden returned to work on 15 June

2020, although they had been on site doing some preparatorywork prior to that to ensure legal compliance and the site andwelfare facilities have been altered to allow social distancing asper Scottish Government guidelines. It is now anticipated thatthere will be a 12 week delay due to Coronavirus, with ananticipated completion date in mid-July/August 2021.

The next step is to erect the steel frame section of the new build.Work will only be carried out within the hours allowed and thismay include Saturdays. There will be some disruption causedand we appreciate residents’ understanding and patience. Noisewill be kept to a minimum and noise levels will be recorded sothat they do not exceed the maximum levels permitted.Scaffolding is now in the process of being erected around the siteand the blockwork underbuild is ongoing on Millarbank Streetand Gourlay Street.

Should residents have any queries regarding the site works,please contact:Alastair Buchanan • Site Manager Cruden • 07702 867 175

Applications for properties are not immediately available,however if you would like to be notified of when to applyplease contact us and provide your contact details.

0141 560 6000 • [email protected]

If you have any questions about the new build developmentplease contact:Kate Waddell • Investment Project Co-ordinator [email protected]

KeppochhillNew Build UpdateBy Kate Waddell, Investment Project Co-ordinator

DistrictHeatingandInvestmentProjectWe are pleased to announce

that as part of our

commitment to reducing fuel

poverty and ensuring that our

homes meet the new energy

efficiency standards set by the

Scottish Government, we are

launching an Air Source Heat

Pump District Heating Project

in our 24 high multi-storey

flats at at Balgrayhill Road,

Viewpoint Place, Croftbank

Street and Edgefauld Road.

Current heating systems will be

replaced with a new modern, energy

efficient district heating system that

uses the latest technology. Also

included in this programme is

renewal of all cold water supplies

and fire safety upgrade works.

We appreciate that there will be

disruption to our tenants and we

greatly appreciate their patience and

understanding while the works are

carried out. All tenants who will be

affected by the works have already

been contacted, however should you

have any queries please contact:

Barry McKenzie

Technical Officer

[email protected]

north news | 25

ng UPDATES

ng2 was established in 2010 andstarted with a team of 8 closecleaners managing around 200 closes. Tenyears on, ng2 has expanded its services andhas grown to employ over 70 members ofstaff who attend to over 5,000 ng homesproperties across Springburn, Possilpark,Balornock and Parkhouse. ng2 is a wholly owned subsidiary of ng homes anddelivers services direct to the community.

The Winter SeasonDuring the winter months, ng2 maintain footpaths byremoving any leaves or foliage to ensure they are safeand clear from obstructions. When snow and ice arrive,ng2 are hard at work gritting surfaces and clearing snow.

The Summer SeasonOver the summer ng2 start the grass and hedge cuttingschedule, along with weeding and litter picking. Thisschedule is subject to weather conditions.

ng2 staff

Garden Maintenance beforeGarden Maintenance after

Garden Maintenance before Garden Maintenance after

Void Repair before

Void Repair after

ng2 servicesng2 carry out a range of services throughout the year including gardenmaintenance, environmental works, close cleaning, joinery, painting, homesupport team, and void monitoring and managing.

Please note that there may be a disruption to services during the Covid-19pandemic.

Our staff have been trained on health and safety procedures including theimportance of social distancing, wearing PPE and disposing of it correctly,frequent hand washing and using hand sanitiser.

Going the Extra MileThe ng group want to recognise staff who go the extra mile and have launched a‘Going the Extra Mile’ recognition scheme.

Andy Lyttle, Care & Repair Officer at ng2 was recently nominated after helping atenant in a tricky situation who locked themselves out of their property. Andy wasable to attend promptly and assured the tenant the job would not take long, andbefore you know it the tenant was back in their home. Andy always strives todeliver an excellent and efficient service, and in this instance Andy has been atrue champion for ng homes!

ng UPDATES

ng2

26 | north news

FINANCE/HELP AT HAND

north news | 27

Scotcash has worked in close partnership with ng homessince 2011, with a dedicated member of Scotcash staffbased in the ng homes office 2 days a week. Following arecent survey of the service, carried out on behalf of theAssociation, it is clear that they have continued toprovide excellent customer service with access toessential financial products for those living in NorthGlasgow. Our tenants clearly value the face to faceappointment option available to them on the 2 days theScotcash office was open within Ned Donaldson House(please note that this service is currently unavailable dueto Covid-19. We will notify our customers when thisservice becomes available).Through the provision of their main service, affordable loans,Scotcash has been able to assist over 1,500 residents withaffordable loans totalling in excess of £849,000 – offering a safeand affordable alternative to high cost pay-day lenders anddangerous loan sharks.

Thanks to the recently created online process, making a loanapplication is now even easier than before –meaning thatScotcash services are even more accessible.

While affordable loans are the main service provided by Scotcash,they also offer assistance to open a Bank account, help withsavings accounts and can provide advice on services availablesuch as Warm Home Discounts.

In the recent survey of ng Homes tenants who have used theScotcash service, there were some excellent testimonials to thegood work that Scotcash do, and one which certainly summedthings up was:

“It eases my mind knowing that I can access credit occasionally –there’s a friendly voice and a human face, a backup for anemergency” - Scotcash & ng homes customer.

Scotcash

Scotcash, a Community Interest Company, was set upto provide access to financial services for those whofind mainstream services difficult to obtain.

A poor credit rating or being on benefits would not necessarilymean that you wouldn’t be approved for a loan and Scotcashoffers a range of services and products, not just affordablecredit. They also offer savings accounts via one of their CreditUnion partnerships, help to open a bank account, and energyand fuel advice. They aim to give their customers an alternativeto expensive forms of credit and help those on a low incomemake the most of their money. Originally founded with supportfrom organisations including Glasgow City Council and GlasgowHousing Association, and to cover the Glasgow area only, theyaimed to tackle financial exclusion. Scotcash have been sosuccessful in doing that, that they have now expanded to coverthe whole of the UK and continue to work with many of theiroriginal partners including RBS, G-Heat and Home EnergyScotland as well as many others. Scotcash provides an ethicallending alternative. They will not lend more than is affordable,and repayments are manageable according to customers’

needs. The amount of interest you will pay on a Scotcash loanis lower than you would pay on a home collected loan and theyare very flexible about payments which are collected by directdebit and can be set up weekly, fortnightly, 4-weekly or monthly.There is even the option for a payment holiday if you have anunexpected expense. Loans can also be granted for as little as£100.

They have offices in Glasgow City Centre for any enquiries orappointments (closed during the pandemic) but loanapplications can also be made online via their website. Formore information call them on 0141 276 0525 or visit theirwebsite for webchat: www.scotcash.net

Scotcash Sunny

Loan £500 £500

Admin Fee £30 –

Monthly repayment £109.18 £165.53

Number of repayments 6 6

Total Amount Payable £655.05 £993.23

APR **227.7% *1293.0%

TOTAL SAVING £338.18*Loan featured on www.sunny.co.uk as at August 2019

**Rates may vary, T & C’s apply – admin fee deducted from loan224.1 % Scotcash Representative APR

28 | north news


Help to Save Help to Save is a savings scheme for people on lowincomes who are claiming certain benefits. Help toSave gives you a bonus payment from the Governmentof up to 50% (half) on savings paid into the account.

You can save between £1 and £50 each calendar month. You do nothave to pay money in every month. You can pay money into yourHelp to Save account by debit card, standing order or bank transfer.You can pay in as many times as you like, but the most you can payin each calendar month is £50. For example, if you have saved £50by 8 January you will not be able to pay in again until 1 February. Youcan only withdraw money from your Help to Save account to yourbank account.

You get bonuses at the end of the second and fourth years. They’rebased on how much you’ve saved. After your first 2 years, you’ll get afirst bonus if you’ve been using your account to save. This bonus willbe 50% of the highest balance you’ve saved. After 4 years, you’ll geta final bonus if you continue to save. This bonus will be 50% of thedifference between 2 amounts:

• the highest balance saved in the first 2 years (years 1 and 2)

• the highest balance saved in the last 2 years (years 3 and 4)

If your highest balance does not increase, you will not earn a finalbonus.

Your Help to Save account will close 4 years after you open it. You willnot be able to reopen it or open another Help to Save account. You’llbe able to keep the money from your account. You can close youraccount at any time. If you close your account early you’ll miss your0next bonus and you will not be able to open another one.

You can open a Help to Save account if you’re any of the following:

• receiving Working Tax Credit

• entitled to Working Tax Credit and receiving Child Tax Credit

• claiming Universal Credit and your household earned £604.56 ormore from paid work in your last monthly assessment period

If you get payments as a couple, you and your partner can apply foryour own Help to Save accounts. You need to apply separately.

You also need to be living in the UK. If you live overseas, you canapply for an account if you’re either a:

• Crown servant or their spouse or civil partner

• member of the British armed forces or their spouse or civilpartner

Details are available on the link on the Association website in thetenants/welfare reform section or on Money Advice website atwww.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/ help-to-save-explained

You can apply for a Help to Save account online by visitingwww.Gov.uk. If you’re eligible and want to apply for an account, youcan apply online at tax.service.gov.uk/help-to-save. Your eligibilitywill be assessed by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) through theGovernment Gateway and you will not need to submit anypaperwork. Your Help to Save account will be held with NationalSavings & Investments (NS&I).

For those who are trying to save for any purpose then it isan account that should be considered.

You can use the money for things like:

• art or music lessons

• a device or piece of technology to help you with your impairment

• joining a class or club

• travel training

• driving lessons (vehicles are not usually funded)

• training courses

Visit For more information, visit:www.mygov.scot/benefits/

MyGov Benefits - ILF Scotland Transition FundIf you're aged 15 to 25 with adisability or impairment youcan apply to the Transition Fundfor money to help you take partin a new activity or learn a skill.

What you can use the money forYou can use Transition Fund money totake part in a new activity or learn a skill that will help you to becomeindependent and continue to spendmore time with other people.

north news | 29


School age payment grants of £250 are payable to families claiming Universal Credit, Income Support, Income BasedJob Seekers Allowance, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and Child Tax Credit (CTC). These cash payments are to provide support to families of children who start Primary One in August 2020.

You can apply for this payment if your child was born between 1 March 2015 and 29 February 2016. You can apply now and applications willbe open until February 2021. To apply please visit www.socialsecurity.gov.uk or call 0800 182 2222.

BenefitCalculatorEvery year over £20 billion of benefits entitlement goesunclaimed in the UK. This is because some people aren’taware of what they’re entitled to.

Did you know that we have a benefit calculator on our website? Ithas been invaluable during Covid-19 in helping our tenants toidentify and claim any benefits they may be entitled to. Thecalculator has helped out tenants who have never had to claimbenefits before and are finding themselves in financial difficultiesdue to a reduction in their household income due to Covid-19.

We introduced our calculator last year and it has been a valuabletool for residents and staff to ensure that no one is missing out theiron entitlement. Since the Covid-19 outbreak, the calculator has beenupdated to reflect any of the emergency benefit changes.

The ng homes benefit calculator is free for all to use, you can use it24 hours a day 7 days a week and be assured that the informationinput is not stored and the results are only viewed by you.

Access the calculator here: www.nghomes.net/benefits-calculator

If you needhelp to access the calculator or you cannot access the calculator online, please contact your Housing Officer.

SchoolClothing Grant Families on low income may be eligible to receive aschool clothing grant of £110 for each child. The awardis given for the cost of purchasing essential schoolclothing for families who are on qualifying benefits.Due to COVID-19, the grant this year has beenincreased to £190. This is made up of £110 clothinggrant and £80 to help families to provide food whilstfree school meals are not available.

If you receive any of these benefits you could be eligible:

• Housing Benefit/Council Tax reduction

• Universal Credit with a monthly earned incomeof no more than £610

• Income Support or Income based Job SeekersAllowance or income related EmploymentSupport Allowance

• Child Tax Credits with an income of lessthan £16,056

• Working Tax and Child Tax Credit with anannual income of less than £15,050

• Support under Part VI of the Immigrationand Asylum Act 1999

If you need any help toapply, then please contactyour Housing Officer.

School agepayment grants

For Rent Enquiries: Bola AkintoyeCarron Crescent1292-1330 Springburn RoadBalgrayhill RoadStobhill RoadViewpoint Gate, Place & Road

Catherine MatherGalloway Street771-783 Springburn RoadBlackthorn StreetElmvale StreetHorne StreetMemel Street

Carron StreetCarbisdale StreetEccles StreetCarbisdale StreetFernbank StreetHickory StreetCarron Place

Pamela HutchisonLenzie TerraceBroomknowes RoadCroftbank StreetEdgefauld Road623-700 Hawthorn Street

For HousingEnquiries:Terri McChesney1292-1330 Springburn RoadBalgrayhill RoadStobhill RoadViewpoint Gate, Place & RoadYvonne KinnearGalloway StreetLenzie TerraceCarron CrescentLiz MacMillan 771-783 Springburn RoadBlackthorn Street

Elmvale StreetHorne StreetMemel StreetCarron StreetCarbisdale StreetEccles StreetCarbisdale StreetFernbank StreetHickory StreetCarron Place

Anne SheeranBroomknowes RoadCroftbank StreetEdgefauld Road623-700 Hawthorn Street

Multi-Storey FlatsHousing Manager: Karen Johnson

For Rent Enquiries: Andrea Campbell67-101 Allander Street107-119 Allander Street2-18 Barloch Street3-5 Barloch Street29-53 Barloch StreetCarbeth StreetHawthorn Court100 Hawthorn StreetHamiltonhill Crescent & RoadKillearn StreetRednock Street98-110 Saracen StreetStonyhurst StreetBroadholm StreetBracken StreetCladdens Quadrant & StreetColtmuir StreetGadloch StreetLamb StreetHaywood StreetKnapdale Street

Danielle Quinn8, 16, 24 Balmore Road40, 46, 52 Balmore Road72 Balmore Road139 –221 Balmore Road139 –162 Barloch StreetCloseburn StreetDenmark Street4-40 Hawthorn Street

313-483 Hawthorn StreetHawthorn QuadrantMansion Street138,148,156 Saracen Street172-294 Saracen StreetWalnut Crescent, Place & RoadChestnut, Cypress & Spruce Street

Susan McAllister134 Allander StreetArdoch StreetBalgair Place, Gardens & StreetBalglass Gardens & StreetBalmore Square41-59 Balmore Road71–83 Balmore RoadBardowie StreetBilsland DriveHayston Crescent & StreetMireton StreetPanmure StreetRedmoss Street185-277 Saracen StreetStronend StreetSunnylaw PlaceAshfield StreetBuckley StreetCrowhill StreetGlenhead Crescent & StreetKippen StreetLiddesdale Road

For HousingEnquiries:Alison McLean67-101 Allander Street107-119 Allander Street2-18 Barloch Street3-5 Barloch Street29-53 Barloch StreetCarbeth StreetHawthorn Court100 Hawthorn StreetHamiltonhill Crescent & RoadKillearn StreetRednock Street98-110 Saracen StreetStonyhurst StreetLynn BennettBroadholm StreetBracken StreetCladdens Quadrant & StreetColtmuir StreetGadloch StreetLamb StreetHaywood StreetKnapdale StreetLiddesdale RoadAshfield StreetBuckley StreetCrowhill StreetGlenhead Crescent & StreetKippen Street

Gail Hamilton8, 16, 24 Balmore Road40, 46, 52 Balmore Road72 Balmore Road139–221 Balmore Road139–162 Barloch StreetCloseburn StreetDenmark Street4-40 Hawthorn Street313-483 Hawthorn StreetHawthorn QuadrantMansion Street138-294 Saracen StreetWalnut Crescent, Place & RoadChestnut, Cypress & Spruce StreetGordon McFarlane/ Ashleigh McIntyre134 Allander StreetArdoch StreetBalgair Place, Gardens & StreetBalglass Gardens & StreetBalmore Square41-59 Balmore Road71–83 Balmore RoadBardowie StreetBilsland DriveHayston Crescent & StreetMireton StreetPanmure StreetRedmoss Street185-277 Saracen StreetStronend StreetSunnylaw Place

PossilparkHousing Manager: Sharon Hazlett

Bola AkintoyeKaren Johnson Catherine Mather Pamela Hutchison Terri McChesney Yvonne Kinnear Liz MacMillan Anne Sheeran

Andrea CampbellSharon Hazlett Danielle Quinn Susan McAllister Alison McLean Lynn Bennett Gail Hamilton Gordon McFarlane Ashleigh McIntyre

HELPFUL INFORMATION

Housing Officers

30 | north news

north news | 31

Customer Service Officers

For Rent Enquiries: Linda ForresterAvonspark Gardens, Place &StreetDykemuir Street & PlaceOatfield Street459 -463 Petershill RoadRed RoadYoung TerraceForesthall Crescent & DriveBarnhill DriveBurnbrae StreetBarmulloch Road

Danielle McErlane104 -138 Balgrayhill RoadMosesfield StreetBagnell StreetBroomfield Place2-60 Broomfield Road721-745 Broomfield RoadCrichton StreetGourlay Street Morrin PathAuchinloch StreetAuchentoshan TerraceAngus StreetAtlas Road Ayr StreetCarleston Street Cowlairs RoadHillkirk Street Kemp Street Southloch Gardens Laverockhall Street Midton Street

Atlas RoadSpringburn Way Vulcan Street 77-163 Petershill Road 237-251 & 312 Springburn Road Valleyfield StreetSt Joseph's ViewZena CrescentBroomfield Crescent & Drive

Laura Sharkey / Lauren McPhee256-356 Broomfield RoadMansel StreetSt Monance StreetSyriam Gardens, Street & PlaceDowns StreetGartferry StreetDrumbottie RoadBalgraybank StreetHillhouse StreetEastburn RoadWallacewell Crescent, Place &RoadBoghead RoadCardarrach StreetLangrig RoadLumloch StreetCampsie StreetCockmuir Street

For Housing Enquiries:Gemma LeeAvonspark Gardens, Place &StreetDykemuir Street & PlaceOatfield Street459-463 Petershill RoadRed RoadYoung TerraceForesthall Crescent & DriveBarnhill Drive

Emma CoatsCrichton StreetGourlay Street Morrin PathAuchinloch StreetAuchentoshan TerraceAngus StreetAtlas Road Ayr StreetCarleston Street Cowlairs RoadHillkirk StreetKemp Street Southloch Gardens Laverockhall Street Midton Street Vulcan Street77-163 Petershill Road 237-251 & 312 Springburn Road Springburn Way Valleyfield StreetSt Joseph's ViewZena Crescent

Amanda Milne104-138 Balgrayhill RoadMosesfield StreetBagnell StreetBroomfield Place2-60 Broomfield Road256–346 Broomfield RoadMansel StreetSt Monance StreetSyriam Gardens, Street & PlaceDowns StreetGartferry StreetDrumbottie RoadBalgraybank Street

Joy HendersonHillhouse StreetEastburn RoadWallacewell Crescent, Place &Road356 Broomfield RoadBroomfield Crescent, Drive721-745 Broomfield RoadBoghead RoadCardarrach StreetLangrig RoadLumloch StreetBurnbrae StreetBarmulloch Road

SpringburnHousing Manager: Lyanne Leslie

Linda ForresterLyanne Leslie Danielle McErlane Laura Sharkey Lauren McPhee Gemma Lee Amanda Milne Joy Henderson

Aimi KerrPeter Livingston Iona Wilson Lucy Brown Stephen Lauder

HELPFUL INFORMATION

Senior Customer Service Officer: Peter Livingston

Sophie Morrison Sinaed Callaghan

32 | north news

HELPFUL INFORMATION


north news | 33

COVID-19 Home Fire Safety Checklist

firescotland.gov.uk #Coronavirus #StayAtHome #TestitTuesday

Here are some steps to help you stay safe in these challenging times:

� Don’t leave cooking unattended and don’t cook if you’re tired, under the influence of alcohol or drugs or on strong medication.

� If you smoke, smoke outside, at an open external door or window and never while underthe influence. Always use an appropriate ashtray.

� Using a laptop? Make sure it’s placed on a hard surface to prevent overheating.

� Always turn computers and laptops off at night.

� Don’t overload electrical sockets.

� Make sure all common areas and exits are kept clear of any combustible materials and don’t leave any items in escape routes.

� With bin collections reduced at this time it is important that flammable items like cardboard or paper are safely stored.

And finally:

� Make sure you have working smoke alarms. Test them once a week.

At night when you go to bed:

� Ensure white goods such as washing machine, dishwashers or tumble dryer are switched off, and never used while sleeping or out

.

� Switch off all electrical appliances not designed to be left on overnight.

� Don’t leave chargeable items like phones and tablets charging overnight.

� Turn off portable heaters and put a fire-guard around the fire place.

� Keep mobility aids and any methods of calling for help accessible for a cared for person.

� Before going to bed, check any candles and cigarettes are extinguished.

� Make sure the main door keys are accessible and in a safe place.

� Close all the internal doors before going to bed.

With all of us spending more time at home due to

COVID-19 there can be an increased risk of fire.

34 | north news


Your Annual Gas ServicingWe are continuing to carry out our tenant’s annual gasservicing. We understand that these are unprecedented timeshowever we have a legal obligation to ensure that all residents are safeby carrying out annual gas servicing to boilers when they are due.Our contractors are fully equipped with the correct PPE and have been trained on safeworking practices, including adhering to social distancing rules, during the pandemic.

Should you receive a notification that your gas service is due and you have concernsabout granting access to your property or anything else regarding your gas service,please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Please contact your Housing Officer who will be happy to discuss any concerns youmay have, or email us.

Email: [email protected] • Telephone: 0141 560 6000

Salvation ArmyTelephone Support for older people The Salvation Army is a mission partner with Faith in Later Life thatprovides resources to help churches connect with older people.This partnership has now helped to create a new telephone-basedworship and support project called Daily Hope. The free phone line 0800 804 8044has several options including hymns, prayers, reflections and advice about Covid-19,as well as a personal message from the Archbishop of Canterbury. Created inpartnership with the Church of England, Faith in Later Life and the Connections group ofHoly Trinity Church in Claygate Surrey, the Daily Hope telephone service is available foranyone but is designed particularly with older people in mind, many of whom do nothave access to the internet.

The Glasgow North Baby Food Bank providesvital service for familiesThe Glasgow North Baby Food Bank Team has been operational since last October and has been successfullyworking within North Glasgow and beyond.

The Baby Food Bank was co-founded by Catherine Yuill, Tracy Pender, Gemma Coyle and Maggie Watson through an initial

response from a local family in desperate need of support for their young baby. They were quick to offer help and identified that this

was a current gap in provision and one which they quickly addressed. This amazing group of women have worked tirelessly in

supporting the community and during the pandemic have been working within Springburn Parish Church food hub. During this time

they have seen an increase in referrals and during an average week support up to 50 families. Items include; baby formula,

nappies, toiletries, wipes and baby food. A big ‘Thank You’ from ng homes, community partners and families for all you do!

Help at Hand…Universal CreditIf you're concerned that your income maybe affected due to the Coronavirus or youneed advice onbenefits, pleasevisit theUniversal Credit website:www.gov.uk/universal-credit.

Here you'll find information about claimingUniversal Credit, what to do if your earningschange and how to make a new claim.

GEMAPTelephone only appointments will beavailable from GEMAP during the outbreakas they continue to support financialinclusion and money advice services. To read their notice on the Coronavirus,please visit their website: www.gemap.co.uk.

If you need benefit advice please contact GEMAPon 0141 773 5850. Please state that you are an nghomes tenant and GEMAP will assist with atelephoneappointment.

GEMAP areproviding information on the latest benefit andwelfare rights information. Please visit theirwebsite detailing helpful advice on PIP, energycosts, Universal Credit, new style ESA and muchmore.

north news | 35

ng FUN

Puzzle pages

R U T R M T T A J F S A W Q H I I S K A V I L R U R H Q E O L C A T E K C U B R U U B Z V J Q J H R F S H P J X W T N Q H I S R C O X O S H C B Y Y N Z S W C E K H I G J G C A Q N F F I M C D C S K K N D G K V L Z M F I T A E K B I K I N I I L M H R N E N D L U W U S H H Y E D D A B I O A J Z F N F A T R H E I T H I M P B A D G H F S G S O W S R U E S S I S P X G V B A G N K I A L N H P Q Q N Q P R E U S J R T O N I X F O P C S A S N S A Z P E W

Summery WordsearchBeach • Bikini • Bucket • Deckchair • HolidayIcecream • Lemonade • Sand • Seashell • ShortsSpade • Starfish • Sunshine • SwimmerAnswers may run horizontally, vertically or diagonally and may even be backwards!

Skater MazeCan you help our Skater boy find his lost skateboard?

Spot the 10 differences in our Farmyard!

How to get in touch with us:email: [email protected]: www.nghomes.netmedia centre: http://mediacentre.nghomes.nettwitter: @ng_homesfacebook: ngsportslegacy

Springburn officeNed Donaldson House, 50 Reidhouse Street,

Springburn, Glasgow G21 4LS

Tel: 0141 560 6000

Possilpark officeSaracen House, 139 Saracen Street,

Possilpark, Glasgow G22 5AZ

Tel: 0141 336 1300

This is a Carbon Balanced Publication

When you have finished with thisnewsletter please recycle it.


Stay Alert,Shut OutScammers -PoliceScotlandPolice Scotland haveissued advice to stayalert and watch outfor scammers duringthe Coronaviruspandemic.

Emergency RepairsOur team will only be able to deal with emergency repairs until further notice.

Please be advised, that emergency repairs are classed as life and limbrepairs and you should not call if the repair does not fall into this category.

To report an emergency repair please call us on 0141 560 6000.

Elected RepresentativesLocal Councillors CanalGary Gray, Scottish Labour Robert Mooney, Scottish Labour Allan Gow, SNP Bailie Jacqueline McLaren, SNP

Springburn/Robroyston Martin McElroy, Scottish Labour Aileen McKenzie, Scottish LabourGraham Campbell, SNP Christina Cannon, SNP

Member of ParliamentGlasgow North East Anne McLaughlin MP

Member of ScottishParliament Glasgow Maryhill and SpringburnBob Doris MSP

Office ClosuresOur offices remain closed but you cancontact us Monday to Friday 9am-5pm on0141 560 6000, or email us:[email protected].

When we do reopen it will be in line with ScottishGovernment guidance and we will be introducingan appointment-only system. Please refer to ourwebsite and social media channels for informationon when we reopen. Alternatively, please call usand we can advise: 0141 560 6000.

Public Holidays September WeekendFriday 25 September 2020

Monday 28 September 2020

ng homes would like to say a big Thank You to the wide range of volunteers,businesses and organisations who have come together to support your community.

Issue 57 • Summer 2020 north news · Issue 57 • Summer 2020 North Glasgow community supported...

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