Welcome to Our Summer Newsletter. Bulletin
June 2025
Summer has arrived, and with it comes your latest edition of the Blackwood Homes and Care newsletter. Inside, you’ll find helpful updates, seasonal advice, and a look at what’s been happening across Blackwood. From tenant stories to news about our services, we hope this issue keeps you informed and connected.
Whether you're enjoying the sunshine in your garden or keeping cool indoors, there's plenty to explore in these pages.
Let’s Talk Rent Arrears: Help Us Help You This Summer
We know many of our tenants are feeling the pressure. The cost of living is still biting, and keeping up with household bills can be a challenge. Rent is no exception.
At Blackwood, we understand that. But we also need to be honest: rent arrears are rising, and the time to act is now.
This summer we are launching Operation Rally, a focused effort to bring down rent arrears, help tenants stay on track by signposting them to expert advice and resources where needed, and strengthen the long-term stability of our housing
Why “Operation Rally”?
We’ve called it Operation Rally because we’re asking tenants to rally to recover, regroup, and regain control of their finances. We’re rallying too: aligning our teams, sharpening our approach, and reasserting our role as a responsible social landlord.
We believe in supporting tenants to sustain their homes. But we also believe in being clear about obligations. We cannot deliver quality services or protect tenancies without rent being paid. As at end June, we have approximately £614,000 of rent arrears: that is money which we consequently aren’t able to use for planned maintenance, environmental improvements or enhancing service delivery.
Living Our Values – Rent First, Independence Always
At Blackwood, we promote independent living. That means giving people the tools and information they need to make their own decisions and take control of their lives. Paying rent is a key part of that independence.
We’re also proud of our values, which guide everything we do:
• We are Open and Honest
• We Take Responsibility
• We Have Respect for Others
• We Keep Our Promises
• We Have a Can-Do Attitude
When you’re prioritising your household outgoings, we want you to realise that Rent comes first because making sure your rent is fully paid protects your home and helps us to provide safe, secure housing for everyone. Our housing and customer service team are here to offer guidance but rent responsibility rests with you, the tenant. That’s the partnership we believe in and that’s how we sustain tenancies, together.
A Message from David Ogilvie, Head of Housing
I joined Blackwood earlier this year to help lead improvements in how we deliver housing and customer services. And I want to be upfront about one thing: I don’t think we’ve always been as firm or as focused as perhaps we should have been when it comes to rent arrears.
There’s been a tendency across the housing sector (and at times within our own organisation) to shy away from difficult conversations about rent. Understandably so.
David Ogilvie Head of Housing
These situations are sensitive, and our instincts are often to lead with empathy.
But if we’re serious about supporting tenancy sustainment, we need to recognise that avoiding the issue doesn’t help anyone.
It allows debt to grow, puts homes at risk, and makes it harder to deliver the services our tenants rely on. That’s why we’re making a conscious shift. That stops now.
We are drawing a line and stepping up. Not to punish, but to protect. Protect tenants. Protect homes. Protect the future of the service.
How the Process Works
Our updated Current Tenant Arrears (CTA) process is clear and consistent:
Step 1: Reminder You’ll receive a prompt by text, call or email if your rent falls behind. If paid, the matter ends there.
Step 2: Housing Officer Contact If arrears continue, we’ll arrange a home visit or discussion. Our priority is to understand what’s going on and how we can help.
Step 3: Notice of Proceedings (NOP) If no payment or engagement follows, a formal legal warning will be issued. This is serious and places your tenancy at risk.
Step 4: Final Warnings Broken arrangements or continued arrears will lead to final warnings. This is the last opportunity to resolve the issue before legal action.
Step 5: Court Action If all else fails, we may begin court proceedings. Eviction is never our goal, but it cannot be ruled out where there is no resolution.
Throughout, we will work with you where you engage with us in good faith. But if rent is not paid and no effort is made, we will act.
Support Is Available
Nobody should feel alone. Our Customer Service Team (CST) can connect you with trusted organisations that offer professional advice, including:
Debt and money advice
Help with benefits or Universal Credit Budgeting support and Discretionary Housing Payments
Local foodbanks and crisis resources
We want to help you stay in your home by pointing you to the right advice and support. The earlier you get in touch, the more options we will have to help.
Universal Credit – what’s changing for tenants on benefits and what it means for you
The government is moving people off older benefits like Housing Benefit and onto a new benefit called Universal Credit (UC). This is happening gradually across the country. People are getting letters from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) telling them when they must switch over.
This change could cause problems with rent payments:
• UC is paid monthly and there’s often a five-week delay before the first payment.
• The rent part of UC is paid to the tenant, not to us. Tenants must then pay their rent themselves.
• Many people moving to UC have never had to do this before because their rent was always paid straight to the landlord.
This means there’s a risk of rent going unpaid or arrears building up, especially if people are not confident with money, don’t use the internet easily, or ignore their letters.
If you get a migration letter, please don’t ignore it. Talk to your Housing Officer or the Customer Service Team straight away. We can help you:
Make a claim
Ask for the rent part of UC to come straight to us (this is called an Alternative Payment Arrangement or APA)
Access extra support if you need it
This change is happening across the country, and we know it will lead to more arrears unless we act early and work together. Talk to us as soon as you hear from DWP – we’re here to help.
The Bottom Line
Burying your head in the sand might bring short-term relief, but the only way to deal with a problem like this is to face it head-on.
Talk to us. Let us help. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes.
Help us to help you. Pay your rent. Protect your home.
Let’s Rally Together.
Gardening Contracts:
For Customers Whose Landlord is Blackwood
If Blackwood is your landlord, we want you to know we’ve heard your feedback and are making improvements to how shared gardens and outdoor areas are maintained.
New contracts have been put in place to ensure regular, high-quality maintenance of communal green spaces across our homes and shared houses. These updates are based on tenant feedback and are part of our ongoing commitment to listen, act and improve.
If you have any concerns about the upkeep of shared gardens or outdoor spaces in your area, please get in touch — we’re here to help.
Listening and Responding:
How We’re Working with the Scottish Housing Regulator
At Blackwood, we take your feedback seriously and are committed to providing services that meet the highest standards.
We continue to work closely with the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to ensure that we are fully compliant, transparent, and accountable. Whether it’s through performance audits, tenant satisfaction surveys, or direct feedback, your voice is helping shape the future of our services.
We will continue to update you on how we’re meeting our commitments and improving based on your input.
What You Need to Know
Radio Teleswitch (RTS) Meters - For Your Awareness
The Radio Teleswitch (RTS) system, which some older electricity meters use, is being phased out across the UK.
Most Blackwood customers do not have RTS meters, so this change won’t affect the majority of people. However, your electricity supplier will contact you directly if any action is needed.
If you are unsure whether you have an RTS meter, or have questions about your electricity supply, we recommend speaking to your electricity supplier, who will be able to confirm your meter type and advise you if necessary.
Blackwood is sharing this information for awareness but does not manage electricity meters directly.
Energy Advice
At Blackwood, we know that energy bills and home comfort are important to you. That’s why we’re continuing our partnership with Changeworks, one of Scotland’s leading environmental charities, to offer expert energy advice and support tailored for our customers.
Changeworks’ Energy Advice Library is full of free, practical resources that can help you lower your energy bills, use appliances more efficiently, and get support when you need it most.
Here are a few useful tips to keep in mind over the summer months:
Even small changes in how you use electricity can add up to significant savings. For example:
• Switch off lights when you leave a room.
• Only boil the amount of water you need in the kettle.
• Unplug chargers and appliances when they’re not in use.
• You can find more easy, cost-free tips like these in Changeworks’ Electricity and Appliances Guide. https://www.changeworks.org.uk/energy-advice/saving-energy-in-the-h ome/electricity-appliances/
Could You Be Owed Compensation?
Did you know your energy supplier has to follow specific rules- and if they don’t, you might be entitled to compensation?
For example, if your supplier misses an appointment, they should pay you £30. (Please speak directly to your supplier to find out more)
Changeworks’ Compensation Guide explains the situations where you can make a claim and how to do it.
https://www.changeworks.org.uk/energy-advice/energy-billsand-your-suppliers/compensation-from-your-energy-supplier/
Support if You're in Fuel Debt
Fuel debt is more common than you might think, and there’s help available. Your supplier is legally required to work with you to agree on an affordable repayment plan.
The Managing Fuel Debt Guide offers step-by-step advice. And if you need more personalised support, you can call Changeworks' Affordable Warmth team free on 0800 870 8800.
https://www.changeworks.org.uk/energy-advice/energybills-and-your-suppliers/how-to-manage-fuel-debt/
Saving WaterSaving Energy
Using less hot water helps reduce your energy use, especially if you have an electric water heater. You don’t need to sacrifice comfort to save—simple changes like taking shorter showers or fixing a dripping tap can make a difference.
Learn more in the Water Usage Guide.
https://www.changeworks.org.uk/energy-advice/ saving-energy-in-the-home/water-usage/
If you’ve been let down by your energy supplier, whether it’s poor service, incorrect billing, or something else, you have the right to complain.
Changeworks’ Making a Complaint Guide walks you through the process and helps you feel confident about speaking up.
https://www.changeworks.org.uk/ message-templates/complaints/
Respecting Our Neighbours This Summer
With the longer days and warmer weather, it's a great time to enjoy the outdoors — but it's also important to respect those living around us.
We kindly remind customers be mindful of noise levels, especially in shared gardens, stairwells, and communal spaces. Please avoid loud music in the evenings and ensure pets, visitors and barbecues don’t cause disruption. Reporting antisocial behaviour early helps us maintain a peaceful and safe community.
Let’s work together to keep our neighbourhoods welcoming and respectful for everyone this summer.
Money Matters: Support When You Need It Most
We know that everyday costs can be hard to keep up with — from energy bills to unexpected expenses. That’s why we’ve pulled together free and trusted support that can help if you're struggling, need advice, or just want to check what you're entitled to.
1. Benefits & Income Support
Access support to help maximise income and reduce everyday costs:
Financial Health Check
Citizens Advice offers a financial health check to help boost income and reduce bills.
Link to Start a financial health check here
Benefits Entitlement Check https://moneymap.scot/
Check you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to here: https://www.entitledto.co.uk https://www.turn2us.org.uk
2. Money & Debt Management
The following organisations offer free, confidential debt advice:
Advice Direct Scotland – 0808 196 2316
Christians Against Poverty – 0800 328 0006
Citizens Advice Scotland – 0800 028 1456
National Debtline – 0808 808 4000
3. Energy Advice
We’ve partnered with Changeworks to provide the Tenant Energy Support (TES) Service, which is: Free and confidential
Offers energy information, advice, and advocacy https://changeworks.org.uk
Request a callback from a Changeworks Advisor: https://www.changeworks.org.uk/referral Call TES on 0800 870 8800
4. Help with Unexpected or Urgent Costs
The Scottish Welfare Fund supports tenants and families on low incomes with two types of grants:
• Crisis Grant, for essential living costs in a financial emergency (e.g., food, heating).
• Community Care Grant- To help people live independently or continue living in the community. Apply online here: www.mygov.scot/scottish-welfare-fund Or contact your local authority directly.
Understanding How Social Landlords Are Regulated
At Blackwood, we’re committed to transparency and making sure you know your rights as a tenant. That’s why we’re highlighting a helpful guide from the Scottish Housing Regulator that explains how social landlords like us are regulated in Scotland, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Who Regulates Social Landlords?
The Scottish Housing Regulator is the independent body that oversees how social landlords (like Blackwood) perform. They make sure landlords provide safe, fair, and high-quality housing services to tenants and other service users.
What Can You Expect From Your Landlord?
What If You Have a Concern or Complaint?
If you’re unhappy with something your landlord has done, here’s what you can do:
Serious Concerns – What Is a Significant Performance Failure?
In some cases, you might have a serious concern that affects not just you, but a group of tenants. This is known as a Significant Performance Failure (SPF).
Examples of SPFs include:
• Not carrying out gas safety checks when required
• Repeatedly ignoring repair requests
• Failing to consult tenants on rent increases
• Not responding formally to complaints
• Putting tenant safety at risk
• Refusing housing transfer applications without fair reason
Failing to report on how the landlord meets the Scottish Social Housing Charter
How to Report a Serious Concern
To report a serious concern to the Scottish Housing Regulator:
Read their tenant factsheet on complaints and serious concerns
• Complete a serious concern form
• Send it by email or post with clear details:
• What the issue is
• How it affects a group of tenants
• How you raised it with the landlord
• Why you feel it hasn’t been resolved fairly or in time
The Regulator will review your concern and let you know their decision, keeping you updated throughout.
Want to Learn More?
https://www.housingregulator.gov.scot/for-tenants/watch-our-videos-for-tenants-and-s ervice-users/video-how-to-make-a-complaint-or-raise-a-serious-concer n-about-a-socia l-landlord/
Spotlight on Talent: How a Valued Support Worker Became a Photographer for Blackwood
At Blackwood Homes and Care, we know that people are more than just their job titles. Every one of our team members brings unique talents, interests and life experience — and when those are celebrated, everyone benefits.
One brilliant example is Rayson, one of our Support Workers who recently joined our 24/7 care team. Rayson’s passion outside of work is photography, and he’s been busy developing his skills behind the camera. After chatting with our Marketing Team, Rayson was invited to help out with a few photo and video projects — and his talent quickly shone through.
His first assignment? Taking headshots of our senior leadership team. The results were fantastic! Creative, professional, and full of character.
“It’s been great to work on something I’m passionate about and feel supported by Blackwood to do that,” says Rayson. “I’ve always enjoyed photography, and having the chance to be part of campaigns and tell the stories of our staff and customers really means something to me.”
Rayson is now working closely with our team to help document some of the special moments happening across Blackwood, from community events to customer stories, care milestones and more.
I’ve always enjoyed photography, and having the chance to be part of campaigns and tell the stories of our staff and customers really means something to me.”
So keep your eyes peeled, you might even spot Rayson with his camera in hand at a Blackwood location near you in the coming months!
Step Into Summer
Fresh Air, Sunshine & Simple Pleasures
There’s something special about the warmer months; longer days, brighter skies, and the gentle buzz of nature all around us. Whether it’s a short stroll, sitting outside in the garden, or simply opening a window to feel the breeze and hear the birdsong, spending time in the fresh air can do wonders for our wellbeing.
A recent visit to Corsehill Park by some Blackwood customers reminded us just how refreshing it can be to take in a change of scene. The group enjoyed a healthy picnic in the peaceful walled gardens, surrounded by flowers, fresh air, and good company. While not everyone can or wants to go on a walk, there are still many simple ways to enjoy the benefits of nature, whether it’s catching some sunshine on your doorstep or enjoying your favourite view from the window.
Even small moments outside can help lift your mood, support mental wellbeing, and give your body a boost of vitamin D. If you're able, try to take a little time each day to pause, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the season, whatever that looks like for you.
Join Us for Plastic Free July
Small changes. Big difference.
Plastic Free July is a global campaign that encourages people to reduce single-use plastics and make more environmentally friendly choices — and it’s a great time for all of us at Blackwood to think about how we can cut down on plastic waste in our homes and communities.
You don’t have to go completely plastic-free to take part. Even one small change — like switching from plastic bottles to refillable ones — can help reduce pollution and protect wildlife, oceans, and green spaces.
Why it matters
Plastic is everywhere — in packaging, household products, and even in our clothes. Much of it is used just once and then thrown away, often ending up in landfill or polluting rivers and seas.
In the UK, we use an estimated 100 billion pieces of plastic packaging every year. Most of this isn’t recycled.
By taking part in Plastic Free July, we can help reduce demand for plastic, support better recycling practices, and create cleaner, greener neighbourhoods.
Easy ways to get started
Here are some simple, practical swaps you can try this month:
•
• Reusable bags – Take your own bags when you shop.
• Refillable water bottles – Avoid buying bottled water by using a refillable bottle.
• Bar soap – Switch from plastic pump bottles to bar soap or refill stations.
• Loose fruit and veg – Choose unpackaged produce when possible.
• Laundry – Use laundry strips or refill pouches instead of plastic bottles.
• Avoid disposables – Say no to plastic cutlery and straws when you’re out.
You don’t need to change everything at once, just pick one or two swaps that work for you.
Get inspired and take part
Visit the official Plastic Free July website for ideas, stories and challenges you can join in with: www.plasticfreejuly.org
You’ll find everything from plastic-free lunch ideas to tips for shopping, cleaning, and saving money while being kind to the environment.
We’d love to hear from you!
Are you making a swap this Plastic Free July?
Take a photo of your plastic-free choices. Share your top tip with us. Tell us what inspired you to take part. Send your photos and stories to: marketing@blackwoodgroup.org.uk
We may feature your ideas in future newsletters or social media, and help inspire others too!
Summer Wellbeing Tips
At Blackwood, your wellbeing matters to us- and a few simple steps can help you stay safe, comfortable and well during the warmer months.
Managing hay fever
For many people, summer means pollen season, which can trigger hay fever symptoms.
• Try to keep windows and doors closed when pollen counts are high.
• Wearing sunglasses outdoors can help protect your eyes from pollen.
• Shower and change your clothes after being outside to help remove pollen.
• Speak to your pharmacist or GP about suitable antihistamines or treatments if you’re struggling with symptoms.
Protect your skin
• The sun can be stronger than we realise, even on cloudy days.
• Use suncream with at least SPF 30 and reapply it regularly, especially if you're out for a while or after swimming.
• A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can help protect your face and eyes.
• If possible, stay in the shade or indoors during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11am and 3pm).
Keep hydrated
Staying well hydrated helps you feel your best in warm weather.
Sip water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Add a slice of lemon or cucumber to
Summer Health and Safety Tips
Summer brings warmer weather, but it can also create extra risks around the home. Here’s how to stay safe and avoid common summer hazards:
Fire Safety
Keep flammable items like tea towels, aerosols, and cleaning products away from heat sources.
Don’t leave candles, incense, or electric fans unattended. If you smoke, avoid smoking near open windows or in dry garden areas. Be careful with barbecues – only use them outdoors and never leave them unattended.
Pests and Infestations
Warmer months can bring pests like ants, wasps, or mice. You are responsible for treating pests in your own home or garden. If pests are getting in, let us know – we can seal any gaps or holes but we do not treat pests.
For advice or pest control, contact your local council’s Environmental Services, they may charge a fee.
We are responsible for pest issues in communal areas such as bin stores and stairwells – report these to your Housing Officer.
Ventilation and Damp
In hot weather, open windows in the early morning or evening to let fresh air in. Avoid drying clothes indoors during humid weather if possible, as it can cause condensation and damp. If you spot mould or persistent condensation, let us know so we can help.
Electrical Safety
Avoid overloading plug sockets with fans or air coolers. Don’t run extension cables under rugs or through doorways. Make sure appliances like fans and chargers are turned off when not in use.
Waste and Bin Safety
Hot weather can cause waste to smell quickly and attract flies.
Double-bag food waste if needed and keep bin lids closed. If you notice pests or overflowing bins in communal areas, report them to us.
If you have concerns about the safety of your home this summer, please get in touch with your local Blackwood housing officer.
Summer recipe
Fruity Ice Lollies
Looking for a refreshing treat that’s easy to make, healthy, and budget-friendly? Try these homemade fruity ice lollies—perfect for cooling down on a warm day!
They’ll help keep you cool and are full of goodies- counting towards your 5 a day!
Ingredients
1 cup mixed fruit (fresh or frozen, like strawberries, mango, or blueberries)
1 cup fruit juice (apple, orange, or tropical works great)
1 tsp honey or sweetener (optional)
Ice lolly moulds or small plastic cups & wooden sticks
Method
Blend the fruit, juice, and honey (if using) until smooth. Pour the mixture into lolly moulds or cups. Add sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight. Run the mould under warm water to release and enjoy!
Top tip: Add a few small fruit chunks before freezing for extra texture and flavour.
Send us your summer snaps!
Made your own ice lollies? Enjoying the sunshine in your garden or on a day out?
We’d love to see what summer looks like for you.
Email your photos to: marketing@blackwoodgroup.org.uk Because we would love to see them!
Blackwood Wordsearch
Across
1. What’s shining in the sky during summer?
2. A cold treat on a stick
3. Something good for exercise – around the block or in the park
4. Where you might see flowers or sit on a bench
5.
1. Something you open to let fresh air in
2. Lotion to protect your skin
3. Worn on your head to keep cool
Crunchy orange snack that goes with hummus
6. Fruity drink that’s great in warm weather
Have Your Say: Join Our Customer Editorial Group!
This is the third edition of the Blackwood Bulletin, and we want to thank everyone who has shared feedback so far. We’ve heard lots of positive comments. Many of you are happy with the communication and format, and that means a lot to us.
But we also welcome all feedback, including suggestions on how we can do better. Your input helps us improve and make sure this newsletter truly works for you.
That’s why we’re inviting you to join our Customer Editorial Group.
We’re looking for people of all ages, abilities, and communication types to get involved. The group will be online, so there’s no need to travel; you can participate from wherever suits you best.
What will the group do?
First meeting: We’ll focus on discussing the newsletter’s accessibility, content, format, and any other factors that affect how you experience it. This is your chance to shape the foundation of how we communicate.
Going forward: The group will review each newsletter before it’s published and make recommendations on content, format, and how we can improve the next issue.
This will be an ongoing opportunity to help shape our customer communications and make sure everything we produce is accessible and engaging for everyone.
We value your time and commitment, so feedback will be straightforward and not too time-consuming.
We would love to hear from you! If you or your community would like to be featured in our next newsletter, please send your photos and stories to marketing@blackwoodgroup.org.uk
Your experiences and contributions are what make our Blackwood community special.
cst@blackwoodgroup.org.uk