Supporting Dublin families

Bord Gáis Energy completes major heating upgrade at Focus Ireland Aylward Green accommodation

21 October: Bord Gáis Energy has completed heating upgrades on an additional 11 homes at Focus Ireland’s Aylward Green Family Supported Accommodation Facility. The extensive work includes the installation of state-of-the-art boilers and smart heating controls. This second phase, following upgrades to 13 homes in 2023, completes the overhaul of the facility’s heating systems. These improvements will provide families living there with more energy-efficient and comfortable homes, while also helping to lower their utility bills. A team of 12 heating engineers and apprentices volunteered 160 hours to the project, utilising Bord Gáis Energy’s expertise to deliver practical support.

Aylward Green, developed in 2001, was the first family supported accommodation service of its kind in Ireland and continues to provide crucial turn-key accommodation for families affected by homelessness. The project provides 13 short-term emergency units: 11 with three beds and 2 with two beds, along with 10 long-term supported housing units for families with complex needs. Its primary goal is to offer temporary accommodation while helping families develop the skills needed for independent living. Beyond shelter, the service delivers comprehensive support in housing, family and childcare, and life skills. Each family works with a Case Manager or Child Support Worker on a personalized plan. The service aims to empower individuals and families to reach their full potential, fostering equality, respect, and confidence within their communities.

Bord Gáis Energy has partnered with Focus Ireland since 2015, committing €4.4 million to help end family homelessness. This collaboration has supported over 7,500 families at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Today’s announcement further reinforces Bord Gáis Energy’s ongoing dedication to this cause and its vision for a greener, fairer future.

Commenting on the project, Cormac Mannion, Head of Net Zero Operations, Bord Gáis Energy, said:

"The heating upgrades at Focus Ireland's Aylward Green accommodation showcase how Bord Gáis Energy uses its expertise to provide tangible support and drives lasting impact through our nine-year partnership. During this two-phase project, our team not only installed more efficient heating systems but also volunteered their time and skills to significantly improve the comfort and energy efficiency of these homes. We are proud to continue working alongside Focus Ireland to support families in need as we strive to energise a greener, fairer future.”

Elaine Fleming, Aylward Green Manager, Focus Ireland, added:

"At Focus Ireland, we believe in the importance of community, and that having a safe and secure home is key to that. We believe in communities that care and look out for each other and don’t leave people behind. This partnership and incredible support from our valued partner Bord Gáis Energy is only testament to what can really help and impact in changing people’s lives.  We are so grateful for the special expertise and generosity of these 12 incredible Bord Gáis Energy heating engineers who should be so proud in knowing their skills and selflessness in volunteering 160 hours will transform many people’s lives for the coming years.”

To learn more about how Bord Gáis Energy supports Focus Ireland, see here.