• Project name: One Team, One Community
• Lead organisation: Comhar Housing/Oaklee Housing
• Partner organisation: Coolock Community Policing Unit

Statement of support

Comhar Housing is the consortium that delivered the first PPP Project for social housing in Ireland. Comhar Housing delivered 534 new homes across six sites throughout the ROI. Oaklee Housing provides both community development and housing management services to the tenants residing in the housing schemes.

Building inclusive, shared and empowered communities are at the heart of the Oaklee and Comhar Housing ethos when they’re supporting their communities.

The communities that Comhar Housing support are based in areas some of which are disadvantaged throughout Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow and Louth, according to the Pobal deprivation indices 2022.

Over the past year, Comhar Housing have trialled a sports inclusion program with their communities. The initiative came about from an emerging need to engage with children and young people in the communities. In some areas there was a rise in anti-social behaviour and a clear breakdown of trust between the young people the local guards in the area, and the wider community.

Using an asset based community development approach, we looked at what facilities and positive initiatives have worked well in the past with the young people. Through consultation with the young people themselves, local community guards and local young people services, it was agreed to set up a six-week sports inclusive program. The camp would take place onsite and incorporated skills and values through fun interactive games.

The sports camp took place across in a number of schemes, each week the sports inclusion camp incorporated different themes such as trust, diversity, respects, inclusion, and communication. The local community Gardaí took part and got to know the young people as part of the program. As it took place onsite, it was a safe space that the young people were comfortable in, and it also eliminated any transport barrier that may affect participation.

The inclusion camps saw over 60 young people taking part, of varying ages, demographic, abilities, ethnic backgrounds, languages and sensory needs, all playing together each week and building relationships within their community. The final week saw a fun celebratory match against and with the local community Gardaí football team. The wider community was encouraged to attend and show support, this saw a huge number at the final week to celebrate the program. It was evident to see the remarkable difference and relationships between the young people, the local Gardaí and the wider community. It was clear to hear the laughter, joy and good humour that had been created between everyone. The young people were so proud to hear the spectators cheering them on. The wider community celebrated the young people for completing the program.

The program while a simple idea has had a long-lasting impact in their local area. It has improved the young people’s understanding that Comhar Housing is here to listen and support them.

Outcomes and achievements

Those involved have started to build a new and positive relationship with the Gardai and local service providers in the area. They had got to know one another in a different light.

Local families who couldn’t afford to attend sports camps due to their high costs, had the opportunity to have this experience.

The sports inclusion program played a vital role in our disadvantaged communities by offering numerous benefits that extended beyond physical fitness. It promoted positive mental health by encouraging exercise and supported the young people’s overall wellbeing.

Beyond physical health, the sports served as a powerful tool for social integration. It brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering teamwork, collaboration, and communication skills. In a community facing socio-economic challenges, the sports inclusion program provided a sense of belonging and unity, reducing social isolation and helping to build a supportive environment.

The structure of organised sports provided the young people with a positive outlet for energy, steering them away from negative influences such as anti-social behaviour.

Having the guards and young people from such diverse backgrounds working together challenged many stereotypes and broke down many different social barriers.

On review and follow up after the six weeks feedback from parents and guardians reported that the young people’s moods had improved with the program, it had given them a new focus and something to look forward to. They felt a part of the community and they saw how the community respected them and were cheering them on, they felt a sense of belonging.

One young person that took part had never participated in sports before due to having Autism and not feeling comfortable, however as this took place in his community, he felt comfortable to attend, and his parents reported that he really enjoyed it and has gained friendships with other young people following the program.

Customer satisfaction has benefited positively with a creditable 94 per cent achieved at the schemes participating in the sports inclusion programme, antisocial behaviour has reduced, participation and community involvement numbers have increased, and more community leaders have emerged, a lot more collaborative initiatives have taken place with nearby community groups.

• Project name: Elanora Court - Long Mile Road
• Lead organisation: Respond

Statement of support

Elanora Court exemplifies innovation in addressing critical housing challenges through a forward-thinking approach. This 153-unit development by Respond combines high quality design, tenant-focused services and community-building to improve the lives of tenants.

Innovation in solving housing problems

Over 40 per cent of Elanora Court’s tenants came from emergency accommodations or "hidden homeless," living in overcrowded conditions. To address this, Respond partnered with Dublin City Council and Jackie Greene Construction.

Key innovations included the use of a precast structural system to ensure efficient, timely construction. The development also integrated cutting-edge sustainable technologies, such as Exhaust Air Heat Pumps (EAHP) and solar PV panels, to achieve an A2 Building Energy Rating (BER), reducing tenants’ energy costs while promoting environmental responsibility. The inclusion of on-site supports further distinguishes Elanora Court as a project designed to address tenants' holistic needs.

Improved lives and customer satisfaction

Elanora Court provides secure, high-quality homes close to essential amenities. Families who once faced long commutes to schools from city-centre homeless hubs now live within walking distance, enabling children to attend school regularly and parents to reduce travel-related stress. Tenants have expressed how the development has given them stability and a sense of belonging.

Elanora Court’s on-site community hub fosters engagement and social cohesion through workshops, seasonal events, and partnerships with local organisations offering activities such as yoga and parent and child groups. These efforts contribute to tenants’ mental health and wellbeing.

• Tenant Anita Dwyer: “Everything is so new and gorgeous and really energy efficient. It’s just going to make such a big difference for us, like having our own space. We haven’t had that, we’ve been squashed into the same room. Even the simple things, having wardrobes, and things all of those things are going to change our lives.”
• Tenant Francesca Brady: “It’s so close to everything even for school. It will only take me 15 minutes to get there now instead of an hour. They’ve [Respond staff] been very helpful with everything that we wanted. Like we wanted the bath and they were able to do that for us.”

Improved outcomes for users

The on-site team, including a tenant relations officer, community support worker and caretaker, plays a pivotal role in tenant integration and wellbeing. The community support worker has facilitated connections with over 20 local stakeholders, providing access to services such health initiatives and educational programmes.

The caretaker’s role goes beyond maintenance to offer personalised support, including assisting tenants with furniture assembly and managing deliveries - services that have proven especially valuable to older tenants and those with limited mobility.

These initiatives ensure that residents not only have a roof over their heads but also thrive in their new environment, with improved access to resources and stronger community ties.

Value for money

Elanora Court delivers high-quality homes within a cost-efficient framework. The use of durable materials, such as handmade bricks and limestone cladding, ensures longevity and minimal maintenance, reducing long-term costs. Energy-efficient systems and water-saving features, including flow restrictors and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS), contribute to cost savings for tenants.

Moreover, the investment in community-building initiatives maximises the social return on investment. By addressing tenants' needs, Elanora Court reduces state reliance on emergency services, demonstrating excellent value for money.

• Cllr Allison Gilliland, chair of Dublin City Council’s Housing Committee: “The collaboration has resulted in 153 high quality sustainable homes. I’m particularly impressed by the beautiful brick, the extensive greenery and the community spaces – so important for inclusive place making as this new community grows together.”
• Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD: “These 153 homes are a fantastic example of a residential urban infill scheme now providing best in class, safe and secure homes for people who will live here for generations to come.”

Outcomes and achievements

Elanora Court has delivered exceptional outcomes for tenants, creating a secure, inclusive community where residents feel a true sense of belonging. A recent Quality in Diversity survey reported a 94 per cent tenant satisfaction rating, reflecting the positive impact of the development on residents' quality of life.

Since its launch, the on-site team has implemented a wide range of community initiatives designed to enhance wellbeing, foster social interaction, and build connections. Events such as the Family Fun Day, attended by 160 residents, and regular arts and crafts sessions for children and parents have strengthened community ties. Seasonal gatherings, including Halloween and Christmas events, have promoted inclusion and addressed social isolation. Partnerships with local organisations, such as MABS, Crumlin College, and Ballyfermot Family Resource Centre, have provided vital supports, including financial literacy workshops, educational information sessions, and social coffee mornings.

These efforts have facilitated positive outcomes, such as increased referrals to education and support services, greater community engagement, and improved access to resources. The "Stitch and Switch" upcycling workshop also encouraged sustainable living practices within the community.

Elanora Court demonstrates Respond’s commitment to creating thriving communities where residents have the support they need to build better futures in secure, high-quality homes.

• Project name: Establishment of Safer Neighbourhoods Team
• Lead organisation: Co-operative Housing Ireland

Statement of support

In July 2023, Co-operative Housing Ireland (CHI) implemented a restructure, that changed the way housing services were delivered to tenants. The operating model was changed from one based solely on geography to one based on functional specialisms.

The key aims of this restructure were to ensure consistency of service to tenants across the country, achieve high levels of performance and enhance expertise of the teams through specialisation. A key component was the establishment of a safer neighbourhoods team. The purpose of this team is to support anyone experiencing anti-social behaviour (ASB) and the prevention of ASB through diversionary activities.

ASB in social housing is well recognised as a significant housing problem and concern for tenants, which needs a proactive approach. If left unmanaged, it can have a devastating impact on households and communities. Prior to the introduction of the new team, CHI fully updated their policies and procedures, which incorporated best practice in the sector. The team received and continues to source and receive specialist training, to build their capacity to deliver an effective service.

A contemporary approach was adopted with new technology, such as a noise app, decibel meter to help support the investigation of complaints in a more efficient and effective manner.

A new centralised server was introduced to enable remote access to CCTV on estates. This enables the specialist to address issues in a timely and cost-effective manner.

CHI is the first Approved Housing Body (AHB) in Ireland to have a team dedicated to dealing with ASB. The delivery of this service includes initiatives to divert people away from committing ASB such as running community-based events and projects. When incidents of ASB occur, the team employs a structured case management approach which ensures that the complainant is kept informed and updated on what can and will be done.

Examples of community-based events and projects

• Diversionary week for Fruithill – This event was aimed at combating ASB around Halloween and involved events such as a party bus with games and music, arts and crafts and planting.
• Diversionary week for Bloodmill - This community fun day included a football event in partnership with FAI, facepainting and balloons, community Gardai with squad cars were also present on the day to promote a healthy relationship.
• Diversionary week for Clonmacken - This event hosted FAI and GAA activities for all in the development.

The feedback from these communities was extremely positive, with the feeling that the initiatives made a real difference.

Recording and evaluating ASB cases

On a monthly basis, the safer neighbourhood team reach out to member tenants who reported ASB and whose cases have been closed. Contact is made to record feedback and questions include:

• Did the safer neighbourhood team do what they said they would do?
• Were you treated respectfully?
• Were you updated on the progress of your case?
• Were you satisfied with the outcome?

Surveys are carried out by telephone with tenants so they can expand and give feedback. Surveys provide a wealth of feedback which is logged and helps form learning outcomes to improve best practice moving forward.

When calculating satisfaction survey results, neutral results are included in the figures. This reduces the level of satisfaction reported but gives a completely true picture of overall satisfaction levels.

Outcomes and achievements

As the first dedicated ASB team in Ireland, the results to date are excellent. The service has three headline KPIs which measure the quality of the service (figures reflect performance Jan-Nov 2024).

Satisfaction with CASE OUTCOMES – score of 74.4  per cent

This is an impressive result for a new team. Satisfaction with the outcome of the case is normally lower than satisfaction with case handling as sometimes complainants’ expectations can be beyond the remit of any landlord. The team strives to improve this satisfaction level through service improvements and the management of expectations from the start.

Satisfaction with CASE HANDLING – score of 83 per cent

This score reveals how happy tenants are with how the case was handled. Particularly, if the case was handled in a professional and courteous manner.

ASB cases closed having been resolved – score of 98.6 per cent

This shows the number of cases closed with the issue being resolved.

Quotes from satisfaction surveys:

• “Safer neighbourhood specialist was fantastic, so lovely and great. No improvements needed, it’s working.”
• “SNS and all the staff in the safer neighbourhood team, you’re doing a great job, keep up the good work”
• “SNS contacted very quickly along with being professional and polite throughout the interaction.”