December 2024: Extra Care Newsletter

A note from Caroline Kaiser 

As we conclude the Service Charge consultations and agree final budgets, I would like to remind those in our recently acquired services were there are additional discussions around changing from Fixed to Variable Service Charges, which is Housing 21’s preferred process as it enables Residents to pay for the actual usage of communal services within their schemes. There is additional information available for reference and you can get this through your Housing Managers.

This month, the Housing Managers will also be visiting residents individually with the aim of promoting a safe, comfortable, and supportive living environment for all residents, by conducting thorough inspections and addressing any issues. Please do use this dedicated opportunity to discuss any areas that you would like support with and allow them to inspect your property to confirm that everything is as it should be.

December always comes with the reminder of, not only nearing the end of the year, but also the bright lights and excitement of Christmas. Whether one believes in Santa or not, there is a feeling of warmth, food, snow and exchanging of gifts that typify the season. Having said that, this may not be the case for many, and it is important that we all remember that this season is a different experience for everyone. Therefore, my message to everyone this December, is that we take time to check on our neighbour as we relax and enjoy the festivities. May it truly be a season of goodwill to all.

Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for the New Year 2025!

Message from Ally Dewar, Head of Extra Care Operations

Hello, I’m Ally, Head of Extra Care, and I look after the North Region for Housing 21 (H21).

Over the last month you all rose to the challenge - I was inundated with entries for my impromptu autumnal competition for the North (thank you). As a reminder, I said that it can be anything at all, a picture of an autumn leaf, yourself in a costume for Halloween, a poem/rhyme you have written about the season or Halloween, or some baking or decorations you have made. To try and have some fun and let’s see who, or what, wins.  Boy oh boy did you have fun, wow, you really were creative and lots of hidden talents were on full display. All the entries I received were amazing and so unique, I received poems, images of decorations, displays, costumes and I loved reading and looking at them all. So, without further ado…drum roll please…North’s 2024 Autumnal Competition Winners are:The Residents of Spring Hill Court in Easingwold. Very well done! Your prize is on its way.

Right, that’s enough from me for this month. Snow has arrived and Christmas is fast approaching so I’m off to practice my singing (aka howling) in readiness for this year’s H21’s Virtual Carol service (details below). If you would like to keep in touch or, if you have any questions for myself, please contact me via email: alastair.dewar@housing21.org.uk