Clár ICH showcased as model for age-friendly housing

Clár ICH, the voluntary housing association based in Claremorris, has been highlighted as a national example of best practice for delivering age-friendly homes. 

Speaking at a recent forum on housing and community support, Alma Gallagher of Clár ICH emphasised the vital role that voluntary housing bodies play in supporting older people to live independently in their own homes for longer. Voluntary housing bodies are now delivering 40% of housing in Mayo.

“Age-friendly housing is key to empowering older people,” said Ms Gallagher. “The evidence is there to show that developments designed with the needs of older residents in mind – like those we deliver at Clár ICH – help people remain in their communities and maintain their independence.” 

As an approved housing body, Clár ICH provides social housing to some of the county’s most vulnerable residents, including older people and people with disabilities. But Ms Gallagher was clear that its work extends far beyond simply bricks and mortar.

“We are more than a housing provider,” she explained. “Voluntary housing associations like ours should be recognised as social enterprises. We’re delivering innovative services and supports that go far beyond the traditional view of housing.” 

Among these innovations are initiatives such as the Warmer Homes Scheme and Meals on Wheels – both of which have made a significant difference to the lives of older people in the region. 

“Keeping homes warm doesn’t just improve comfort,” Ms Gallagher noted, “it has clear health benefits for older residents. And programmes like Meals on Wheels help address issues like food poverty, while also reducing isolation.” 

Ms Gallagher also used the opportunity to advocate for a broader recognition of the value that voluntary housing associations bring to the sector. She stressed the importance of being seen not just as service providers, but as strategic partners capable of delivering care and community-based support.

“There’s so much more to our work than what you see in the policy documents,” she said. “What we offer is a full menu of services – from energy retrofitting to community meals – all of which contribute to a continuum of care.” 

That continuum, she explained, includes services such as Good Morning Claremorris, a phone call service to check in on older people; Care and Repair, which helps residents with minor home improvements and maintenance; and even emergency community support during times of crisis.

Ms Gallagher recalled that during Storm Éowyn, many local residents turned to voluntary housing associations for support. 

“In Brickens, for example, the group there opened its doors to offer hot meals and showers to anyone in need. That’s what community housing should be about – being there for people when they need it most."