Kilkee Housing Association CLG – Providing 30 Homes for Older People and People with Disabilities

Description

Kilkee Housing Association CLG is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee having its registered office at Dún an Óir Communal Centre, Circular Road, Kilkee, Co. Clare. The company received charitable status from the Revenue Commissioners in 2002 under reference number CHY 14832. Kilkee Housing Association also received approved status from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in 2002 and continues to operate as an approved housing body.
Kilkee Housing Association CLG presently owns and manages 30 units of accommodation, a communal centre and caretaker’s apartment at Dún an Óir, Circular Road, Kilkee, Co. Clare. The development, which caters for older people and people with disabilities, opened its doors to the first residents of Dún an Óir in April 2009 and currently accommodates 35 residents. The development was funded in the most part through the Capital Assistance Scheme from the Department of Environment, with National Lottery funding for the communal centre. House No. 31 was constructed with 30% funding under the CALF scheme. The Housing Association also had to raise private finance. The project has been hugely successful, with residents enjoying a very safe, independent, and sheltered environment in which to live and socialise. Such has been the success of the development locally, that the Housing Association, currently has approx. 50 applicants on its waiting list for accommodation at Dún an Óir with many more expressions of interest.
At present, a board of twelve volunteer directors manage the activities of Kilkee Housing Association CLG – this figure was eight when Kilkee Housing Association was originally formed. The board holds monthly board meetings and meets on a more regular basis, in between board meetings, as required. All the directors are from the locality and the majority of them have been involved with Kilkee Housing Association CLG since its formation in 2001. They have proven their interest in and commitment to the provision of good quality social housing. Kilkee Housing Association enjoys a good working relationship with Clare County Council in relation to the allocation of tenancies, funding under the Rental Accommodation Scheme etc.

Aim of Initiative

The aim of the initiative is to support older people to live independently in a safe and secure environment, while promoting well being, autonomy, and community among the residents.

Who is it aimed at

The project is aimed at older people from the Kilkee and surrounding area.

3 Steps critical to success

1. The completion of a Comprehensive Needs Assessment was a critical step to success. The local community, especially potential residents, were involved, to gauge an understanding of their specific needs, preferences, and concerns. This ensured the development was tailored to meet the actual demands of the older population. Local demographic data was analysed to determine the size and characteristics of the elderly population, including health needs, mobility levels, and social preferences. The availability of local resources, including healthcare, transportation, and social services, to ensure the estate can adequately support its residents, was considered.
2. Design and accessibility, was another vital component to the success of the project. Universal design principles have been incorporated to create an environment that is accessible and user-friendly for all residents, including those with mobility issues or disabilities. This includes features like wide doorways, and accessible bathrooms. Safety features such as non-slip flooring, grab bars, and well-lit common areas have reduced the risk of accidents and provide peace of mind for residents and their families. Communal areas that encourage social interaction and activities, such as age friendly seating areas and the Communal Centre, to promote social well-being and prevent isolation, have been created.
3. A further crucial element is sustainable funding and management. Sustainable funding sources, such as government grants, private investments, and charitable contributions, to finance the construction and ongoing operation of the housing estate were secured. Partnerships were developed with local authorities, healthcare providers, and community organisations to ensure comprehensive support services for residents. An Adminstrative/Housing Officer, On-Site Caretaker and robust Board of Directors oversee the day-to-day operations of the estate. This includes maintenance, resident support services, and community engagement to ensure the estate remains a vibrant and supportive living environment.

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Kilkee is a rurally isolated area in the west of County Clare. This presents multiple challenges, both in the initial stages of the project in terms access to building contractors and sourcing materials and at operational stages, in terms of access to services.
2. Access to services for older people such as access to health care services presents a challenge for the project.
3. Access to activity providers remains a challenge when planning a schedule of health and well being activities due to the rural location of the project. It is difficult to source activities providers given the added costs, both time and monetary, involved in travelling to Kilkee for the providers.

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. Enhanced Quality of Life – By offering accessible, safe, and comfortable housing, our residents can enjoy a higher quality of life. Features like non-slip flooring, grab bars etc. ensure safety and peace of mind. Organised activities such as Bingo, Chair Yoga and information sessions in the Communal Centre, have helped reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, fostering a sense of community and belonging among residents.
2. Sustainable Aging in Place: Providing housing that is specifically designed for older people and people with disabilities allows residents to live independently for longer, maintaining their dignity and autonomy.
3. Adapt and Improve: Kilkee Housing Association CLG is prepared to adapt and make necessary changes based on evolving needs. This ensures the housing estate remains relevant and continues to meet the needs of its residents.