Women in Housing Awards and Housing Heroes Awards 2024: the winners

A list of winners from the Women in Housing Awards

Candida Dutiro, Red Kite Community Housing

• Candida Dutiro works tirelessly to elevate the voices of fellow Red Kite residents
• Her personal growth and development have been an inspiration to other volunteers
• She is always working to improve her understanding of the sector and to elevate the tenant voice

Candida Dutiro is an exceptionally talented tenant volunteer, who has worked tirelessly to elevate the voice of Red Kite Community Housing’s tenants, at a strategic level as well as on the ground.

As the chair of Red Kite’s resident representative team – the organisation’s shadow tenant board – Candida has created individual personal development plans for her team members and has given speeches
at national housing conferences.

She also sits as an observer on Red Kite’s main board and has built a strong relationship between the two groups. In addition, she frequently attends webinars and training courses to further her understanding of the sector.

Her colleagues say the sector needs volunteers like Candida, to ensure the voices of residents are heard, not stifled, and to make sure their views are always at the forefront of service delivery. 

Her passion for housing and dedication to achieving great outcomes with Red Kite make her a standout winner in this category.

The judges said:
“Candida represents Red Kite residents, while also building their skills and experience. Her passion and dedication to achieving great outcomes make her stand out”

This category was judged by:
Michelle Baker, board member and committee chair, Eastlight Community Homes
Anna Kear, chief executive, Tonic Housing

Women and Manual Trades, Procure Plus

• Women and Manual Trades works to make women in construction the norm rather than the exception
• More than 50 women were helped into training, work placements and full-time employment
• More than half of the women supported by the initiative have been social housing tenants

Women and Manual Trades (WaMT) works with contractors and direct labour organisations to make women in construction the norm rather than the exception. 

WaMT focuses on this part of the construction industry, as a significant proportion of social housing residents would prefer to have female operatives working in their homes. 

Through the WaMT initiative, more than 50 women have benefited from training, work placements and employment opportunities over the past 12 months.

As well as making a more diverse workforce available to work in residents’ homes, over half of those engaged have also been social housing tenants. The initiative has enabled women from lower-income households and those who may have been unlikely to consider a career in construction to gain skills and employment to help sustain their jobs and tenancies.

All the jobs brokered by WaMT are permanent positions with reputable companies that pay the Living Wage and want to work with partners to ensure their workforce reflects their local community.

The judges said:
“The need for more female operatives, to make female tenants and residents feel safe when works are carried out, cannot be overstated... a great initiative in an [underrepresented] area”

This category was judged by:
Suresh Lal, partner (housing), Odgers Interim
Hony Premlal, chair, Eldon Housing and co-chair, Women in Social Housing (WISH) London

Tanya Stirland, Ashfield District Council

• Tanya Stirland built a career in an area in which women traditionally have been underrepresented
• She is Ashfield’s first female principal officer for responsive and voids maintenance
• Her background as a social tenant informs her empathy for residents and her drive to improve their lives

In an industry in which women are underrepresented, Tanya Stirland has shattered stereotypes.

She began her career as an administration officer at Ashfield District Council and has risen through the ranks to become the local authority’s first-ever female principal officer for responsive and voids maintenance.

Leading a team composed primarily of male professionals, she has not only overcome challenges, but thrived, setting a powerful example for women aspiring to leadership roles in housing and construction.

Ms Stirland was born and raised on a deprived Nottinghamshire housing estate. Her empathy when dealing with residents and the drive she has to make a difference in the sector stem, in part, from her background.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ms Stirland serves as a beacon of inspiration for women across the housing sector.

Her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion makes her a truly great leader, and her impact will continue to inspire future generations of women, in housing and beyond.

The judges said:
“Thriving in areas where women have traditionally been underrepresented, what truly sets Tanya apart is her determination to succeed”

This category was judged by:
Leslie Channon, director, Channon Consultancy
Aimee Tomalin, company secretary, Cartrefi Conwy
Louise Winterburn, deputy chief executive, World Habitat

Highly commended
Jenny Coates, Lancaster West Neighbourhood Team

Special mention
Rebecca Meadon, Stroud District Council

Ella Mackay, Beam

• Ella Mackay has been tasked with helping Ukrainian households at risk of homelessness in Southwark
• She has supported more than 65 households, and has found 37 of those a secure place to live
• She changes lives while saving the council money it would have spent on temporary accommodation

Last year, Southwark Council commissioned Beam, a social impact business, to support 50 Ukrainian households with housing. Beam senior caseworker Ella Mackay was appointed as the sole housing specialist.

Around 174,000 Ukrainian refugees have entered the UK since 2022, and once sponsor families are unable to host refugees in their homes any longer, many find themselves facing the threat of homelessness.

Ms Mackay has delivered some remarkable achievements. Securing housing options in London – the UK’s most expensive market – is not only a technical and logistical challenge, but an emotional one, too. It can understandably be a frustrating experience for many, but Ms Mackay has approached this challenge with drive and passion – and the results speak for themselves.

Over the past year, Ms Mackay has personally supported more than 65 households in housing need, and has successfully secured a home for 37 of those. Her work has benefited the public purse as well, generating savings of £48,000 for the council, money that would otherwise have been spent on temporary accommodation.<

The judges said:
“Ella has delivered important tangible outcomes supporting communities in the UK and refugees from abroad, and it is clear she is making a difference to people’s lives”

This category was judged by:
Suresh Lal, partner (housing), Odgers Interim
Hony Premlal, chair, Eldon Housing, and co-chair, Women in Social Housing (WISH) London

Léann Hearne, Livv

• Léann Hearne was brought in to turn Livv around after a downgrade by the regulator in 2018
• Within three years, she had transformed Livv into a top-performing housing provider
• She is a champion for women, as demonstrated by Livv’s gender balance and her work as a mentor

Léann Hearne is chief executive of 13,000-home, Knowsley-based Livv Housing Group. She is also on the board of the Northern Housing Consortium and vice-chair of Yorkshire Housing.

In 2018, following concerns over its governance and approach to fire safety, the Regulator of Social Housing downgraded Livv to a G3 rating for governance (a non-compliant grade), leaving a demoralised workforce in its wake.

Ms Hearne was brought in to turn things around, and that’s exactly what she did, transforming the organisation she leads through pride, aspiration and partnerships.

Within three years, Livv had attained a G1 rating – but Ms Hearne’s influence extends much further than that.

She has a track record of supporting other women in the sector; women make up 44% of Ms Hearne’s colleagues and more than 50% of the senior roles at Livv. 

Ms Hearne is also mentoring five female housing professionals from across the country, with the aim of boosting the gender balance of the sector’s future leaders.

The judges said:
“Léann is a values-led chief executive who turned [Livv] around. Livv now boasts the regulator’s highest governance rating. She has inspired others and uplifted many women”

This category was judged by:
Charlotte Carpenter, executive director of growth and business development, Karbon Homes
Kayley Hyman, founder, Holistic Hoarding
Fayann Simpson, chair of the resident services board, L&Q

Highly commended
Rebekah Drobac, United Welsh

Georgina Rangecroft, Ethical Lettings

• Georgina Rangecroft devised and established Ethical Lettings, the UK’s first social lettings agency
• Ethical Lettings has helped 2,000 homeless families into secure private rented accommodation
• Today, the community interest company operates across the country, and continues to grow

In 2011, Georgina Rangecroft had an idea to develop a social lettings agency.

This community interest company would support homeless people by enabling them to access the private rented sector, while supporting them to sustain their tenancy and develop the skills they need to improve their quality of life.

In 2012, Ms Rangecroft left her job to set up the UK’s first independent social lettings agency, initially working from her spare room. She spent the next 12 years developing Ethical Lettings. Today, it is helping homeless households across the country.

Ethical Lettings currently has eight full-time staff members, and works alongside councils, mental health teams, social services and other organisations who help homeless individuals and families.

Ethical Lettings has helped 2,000 homeless households into sustainable, good-quality private rented housing. The company continues to grow and develop as a not-for-profit business to help homeless households.

The judges said:
“Georgina is an inspirational leader who took a personal risk to create an impactful and holistic service which supports people to sustain their tenancy and develop life skills”

This category was judged by:
Charlotte Carpenter, executive director of growth and business development, Karbon Homes
Kayley Hyman, founder, Holistic Hoarding
Fayann Simpson, chair of the resident services board, L&Q

Helen Cliffe, Frank Shaw Associates

• Chartered architect Helen Cliffe has worked to drive positive change in the construction sector 
• She has advocated for the power of residential design to provide more than housing
• She has been vocal on issues such as shrinking carbon footprints and designing resilient communities

During the course of a career spanning over 20 years, chartered architect Helen Cliffe has worked on more than 300 residential, residential regeneration, and residential masterplan projects across the UK. In recent years, she has been a pioneer for change in the industry, and an advocate for how residential design can do more than simply provide homes.

From reducing the construction industry’s carbon footprint, to designing and building strong and resilient communities, Ms Cliffe has been a vocal figure in driving this change, speaking at key industry events and working with universities and researchers to incorporate positive changes in future housing developments.

Ms Cliffe has won awards for her work, including a York Design Award for the Le Tour Way development in Acomb, York.

Since 2022, Ms Cliffe has worked as an ambassador and partner of Regeneration Brainery, an organisation that aims to boost diversity and tackle the skills shortage in the construction industry via five-day, hands-on boot camps for more than 4,000 young people every year.

The judges said:
“Helen demonstrated an impressive commitment to social improvements. Her Regeneration Brainery initiative is an excellent example of her drive to inspire and educate others”

This category was judged by:
Jacqueline Brown, business director, John Southworth Builders
Libby Kerman, sustainability manager, Lincolnshire Housing Partnership

Pia Honey, No Floor No More

• Pia Honey’s community interest company helps families on low incomes access quality flooring
• Her company sells recycled flooring at two price tiers, with families on benefits given a lower price
• No Floor No More has provided low-cost flooring to more than 800 people to date

Pia Honey has gone the extra mile to promote the inclusion of economically disadvantaged families who might otherwise be unable to afford flooring.

No Floor No More, her community interest company, rescues and recycles flooring – and is therefore able to offer products like carpet and vinyl at a much cheaper rate than if bought in a shop.

On top of this, Ms Honey offers all her items in two price categories; families who can evidence that they are on benefits pay lower rates.

She also collaborates with a removals company to transport flooring, and is able to recommend trusted carpet fitters – offering a complete package that makes flooring more accessible, especially for families who have been offered a social home with bare floors.

Many of Ms Honey’s customers have been living with bare floors for more than a year. 

Rectifying this can often seem like too expensive and too big a project to address. She has made it accessible and easy – and, to date, she has helped more than 800 people.

The judges said:
“Pia saw a need and took it upon herself to supply potentially vulnerable residents with flooring. We admire her community spirit, foresight and tenacity”

This category was judged by:
Mushtaq Khan, chief executive, Housing Diversity Network
Annalisa Langton, head of engagement and diversity, The Guinness Partnership

Pia Honey, No Floor No More

• No Floor No More’s second award underlines the impact of this community interest company
• It offers recycled flooring at two different prices – people receiving benefits pay a lower rate
• Pia Honey is improving people’s lives, while rescuing flooring that would otherwise end up in landfill

Pia Honey’s second award is a testament to the innovative and impactful nature of No Floor No More, the community interest company she runs single-handedly.

Around half of social tenants in the UK say there were no floor coverings in their home at all when they moved in. Flooring can be one of the biggest expenses for a new tenant, and bare floors or concrete are less than ideal when trying to keep a home warm, especially in winter and at a time of rising energy bills. 

No Floor No More rescues flooring from film sets and festivals, remnants from carpet shops, and samples and pre-owned flooring from individuals. 

Its stock is kept in four hired storage facilities; those in need can come along with measurements and choose a piece that suits them at a small cost. Families receiving benefits are given a further discount. 

Ms Honey is committed to improving the homes and lives of others in a practical way. She has helped more than 800 families to access low-cost flooring, while simultaneously boosting recycling and reducing waste.

The judges said:
“Pia’s fantastic innovation is impacting people’s lives, while helping the environment. She demonstrates a fantastic ability to bring people together from within and outside the sector”

This category was judged by:
Anna Clarke, director of policy and public affairs, The Housing Forum
Libby Kerman, sustainability manager, Lincolnshire Housing Partnership
Lynne Nicholls, director, Leonis Solutions

Sponsored by:

Setareh Neshati, Westminster City Council

• Setareh Neshati joined Westminster City Council as head of development in 2018
•  Since then, she has transformed Church Street, the council’s flagship regeneration project
• A joint-venture partner was secured to deliver 1,200 homes and 73% of residents support the scheme

Setareh Neshati is Westminster City Council’s head of development. She joined the council in 2018, having realised that: “If you’re genuinely interested in urban regeneration, you need to be working in a local authority.”

She leads Church Street, the council’s flagship development project, as well as the project delivery function across a housing pipeline of more than 4,000 homes. In 2010, the Church Street estate’s decaying and overcrowded housing stock was earmarked for much-needed regeneration – but eight years later, the project still hadn’t delivered the change the community needed. 

Since Ms Neshati took charge in 2018, the project has received planning consent, families have been supported through temporary relocation, 73% of residents gave their support for the scheme in a survey and a joint-venture partner has been secured to deliver 1,200 new homes, half of which will be affordable.

This achievement speaks volumes about Ms Neshati’s ability to marry technical expertise with empathetic community engagement, ensuring projects are both completed and embraced by the communities they are designed to serve.

The judges said:
“Setareh displays professionalism, vision and courage alongside breathtaking results. She hits key areas, from tackling homelessness, to driving up standards for customers”

This category was judged by:
Joanna Lee-Mills, partner and head of social housing development, Shakespeare Martineau
Charmaine Simei, chief executive, Tuntum Housing Association

Ilene Campbell, Tenants Information Service

• Ilene Campbell has steered the Tenants Information Service to become a leading organisation
• She championed the role of tenant participation and the power of collaboration
• She led a study that will provide a platform for young tenants, an underrepresented group

Ilene Campbell has been chief executive of the Tenants Information Service (TIS) for more than two decades. Over that time, the charity has become Scotland’s leading tenant participation organisation.

Ms Campbell has focused her career on encouraging the sector to think differently about tenant participation. She is an advocate for the fundamental role it plays in influencing an active, inclusive and just Scotland. Ms Campbell is well known and respected across the housing and third sectors, and is passionate about collaborative working.

Ms Campbell is deeply committed to engaging young people and allowing their voices to be heard. Under her leadership, the Scottish government commissioned the TIS to undertake a national study on the barriers that hamper young people’s engagement, a demographic often underrepresented in tenant participation.

The 11 recommendations resulting from the study will drive housing organisations’ performance, and help them to provide a platform for young tenants to ensure their feedback is acted upon to promote better housing.

The judges said:
“While being a clear champion of utilising resident voice, Ilene also recognises the importance of engaging young people. She is a huge inspiration for women across the housing sector”

This category was judged by:
Anna Clarke, director of policy and public affairs, The Housing Forum
Libby Kerman, sustainability manager, Lincolnshire Housing Partnership
Lynne Nicholls, director, Leonis Solutions

Highly commended
Avene Furness, Chute Fire Certification UK

Joint winner of the Women in Housing and Housing Heroes Awards 2024

Wythenshawe Community Housing Group

• Thirty-seven per cent of Wythenshawe staff have stayed for a decade or longer
• It looks after its staff in a multitude of ways, from regular pay reviews to offering unpaid sabbaticals
• Wythenshawe’s inclusive approach extends to both its workplace in general and recruitment

Wythenshawe Community Housing Group’s attractiveness as a place to work is evident in its long-term staff retention figures – 37% of staff have served for a decade or longer, and 52% have stayed for more than five years.

It looks after its staff in a multitude of ways, from crafting inclusive work environments for disabled staff and championing good mental health and well-being, to conducting salary benchmarking every three years. Its pay framework is open and transparent, and Wythenshawe has managed to shrink its gender pay gap from 3.13% in 2022 to 0.92% last year.

Wythenshawe’s inclusive approach extends to both the workplace and recruitment.

Staff  undergo comprehensive equality, diversity and inclusion training, with access to resources and training on neurodiversity and LGBT+ allyship. Wythenshawe also offers an unpaid sabbatical, which both contributes to the long-term well-being of colleagues and ensures staff retention remains high.

It uses the Rooney Rule when hiring: at least one woman and one underrepresented minority candidate must be considered for every open position.

The judges said:
“Wythenshawe is a place where people want to work. Their proactive approach around menopause awareness, neurodiversity, LGBT+ and allyship is to be commended”

This category was judged by:
Leslie Channon, director, Channon Consultancy
Aimee Tomalin, company secretary, Cartrefi Conwy
Louise Winterburn, deputy chief executive, World Habitat

Sponsored by:

A list of winners from the Housing Heroes Awards

Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira, Manningham Housing Association

• Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira has improved processes using technology and digital inclusion
• Her work in advancing technology has helped turn Manningham into a leading light in the housing sector
• It is the first association to achieve a global standard for diversity and inclusion in HR management

Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira is Manningham Housing Association’s corporate services officer, but her contribution to the organisation goes far beyond her job description. She has instigated and improved processes, procedures and projects which have benefited the organisation and the communities it serves via digital inclusion –making services slicker, more efficient and more convenient for customers.

Ms Padovezi de Oliveira motivates colleagues throughout Manningham by improving processes and advancing technology in all areas of the business to improve their outputs and outcomes, analysing challenges and providing effective solutions. Through her introduction of new technology and proactive use of social media, she has turned Manningham into a leading light in the sector. She has led on equality, diversity and inclusion, which has contributed to Manningham becoming the first housing association to achieve ISO 30415, the global standard for diversity and inclusion in HR management.

Ms Padovezi de Oliveira has become a national speaker on technology, specialising in AI.

The judges said:
“Carolina demonstrated a great ability to blend technology,
AI and services to deliver improved customer satisfaction.
Very impressive – the true spirit of a housing hero”

This category was judged by:
Nick Apetroaie, chief executive, Habinteg Housing
Debra Edwards, co-production champion, Technology for our Ageing Population: Panel for Innovation (TAPPI)
Tracy Harrison, chief executive, Northern Housing Consortium

Highly commended
Vicky Gladden, Bournemouth Churches Housing Association

Ben Laryea, chief executive, Ekaya Housing Association

• Ben Laryea has worked tirelessly to dismantle systemic racism and champion inclusivity
• As chair of BME London Landlords, he has led the development of the Social Housing Anti-Racism Pledge
• Mr Laryea’s leadership has set a benchmark for others to follow in addressing racial equality

Throughout his career, Ben Laryea has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and championing inclusivity within the housing industry. His tireless efforts not only raised awareness about racial inequality, they also inspired transformative change.

Moved by the Black Lives Matter campaign and the death of George Floyd in 2020, Mr Laryea became chair of BME London Landlords, a group of 14 Black and minority ethnic-led housing associations, that same year. During his tenure, Mr Laryea has taken the group in a new strategic direction, calling out racism and inequality within the housing sector and developing the Social Housing Anti-Racism Pledge (SHARP). Organisations that sign up must commit to developing an inclusive culture, while working with others in the sector to identify best practice and combat racism.

Mr Laryea is also chief executive of Ekaya Housing Association, founded 37 years ago to primarily serve single Black women in housing need. His leadership and innovative approach have set a benchmark for others to follow, creating a lasting impact on both policy and practice.

The judges said:
“Ben’s tireless dedication to dismantling systemic barriers and securing transformative change is inspiring. His initiatives and unwavering commitment have set a remarkable standard”

This category was judged by:
Fiona Howie, chief executive, Town and Country Planning Association
Eamon McGoldrick, managing director, National Federation of ALMOs
Nathan Warren, group director, growth and partnerships, Sanctuary

Emma Pawsey, Hebron Housing

• Emma Pawsey heads up Hebron Housing, a specialist provider of supported housing for women 
• Under her leadership, it became a provider for women with mental health challenges and in recovery
• Ms Pawsey has a tireless commitment to helping vulnerable women rebuild their lives

Hebron Housing has become a beacon of hope for vulnerable women seeking refuge and support. In 2023, Emma Pawsey, Hebron’s chief executive, embarked on a journey to redefine the organisation’s mission and purpose, paving the way for a new era of compassionate care and holistic support.

At the heart of this transformation lies Ms Pawsey’s belief in the inherent worth of every individual and her tireless commitment to ensuring that every woman who walks through Hebron’s doors finds not just shelter, but a sanctuary where they can rebuild their lives, heal from past traumas, and rediscover their sense of self-worth and purpose.

Under Ms Pawsey’s leadership, Hebron has become a supported living provider for vulnerable women with mental health challenges and those in recovery.

She also secured new funding and acquired two new houses, while undertaking the task of converting the original rehab facility into a haven of comfort and safety – a place where four extremely vulnerable women, including survivors of war and homelessness, could find solace and support.

The judges said:
“Emma’s hands-on approach, determined advocacy and unwavering commitment to individual well-being have created a culture of compassion and empowerment”

This category was judged by:
Fiona Howie, chief executive, Town and Country Planning Association
Eamon McGoldrick, managing director, National Federation of ALMOs
Nathan Warren, group director, growth and partnerships, Sanctuary

Matthew Harrison, Great Places Housing Group

• Under Matthew Harrison, Great Places has substantially grown its footprint across the North 
• He is stepping down, but his ‘business brain, social heart’ approach will endure
• His impact on the sector and regeneration across the North is impossible to quantify

Matthew Harrison’s (second left, above) passion for placemaking has been the hallmark of his 40-year career in housing. He took over as chief executive of Great Places in 2013, with the housing association building 5,578 under his stewardship. It was a difficult time for the organisation, but the group has grown substantially and flourished. Today, it is an influential and values-led housing provider with a huge footprint across Northern England that has built thousands of much-needed homes.

Approachable and hands-on, Mr Harrison leads from the front. He takes an active role with the board, stakeholders and partners, but is always available to colleagues, with whom he ensures that communication is genuinely two-way. He has committed his entire career to social and urban regeneration, and his far-reaching work has improved countless communities.

Mr Harrison is preparing to step down, but his philosophy – ‘business brain, social heart’ – is embedded and will endure across the organisation. He has become synonymous with driving change and improving lives, and his impact on the sector and regeneration across the North is impossible to quantify.

The judges said:
“Matthew’s contributions to social housing, community, social purpose, equality and values epitomise the transformative potential of social housing – a true housing giant”

This category was judged by:
Joanna Lee-Mills, partner and head of social housing development, Shakespeare Martineau
Charmaine Simei, chief executive, Tuntum Housing Association

Kynleigh Parker, Lovell Partnerships

• Kynleigh Parker’s performance, attitude and commitment have been exemplary since joining Lovell
• Her accomplishments against a backdrop of health problems make her achievements outstanding
• She has displayed courage and determination, and is blazing a trail for women in construction

Since joining Lovell Partnerships as a trainee assistant site manager four years ago, Kynleigh Parker’s performance, attitude and commitment have been of the highest standard, but it is her accomplishments against a backdrop of serious personal health problems that make her achievements outstanding.

In 2022, she was diagnosed with severe endometriosis following nine years of doctors’ appointments and excruciating pain. Faced with this while trying to build a career might have held others back, but she was determined to find a solution.

Kynleigh planned to climb Mount Snowdon in late 2022, to raise money for an egg retrieval operation, to improve her chances of becoming a mum in the future after an operation to treat her endometriosis. However, she broke her back in an accident and was nearly paralysed, leading to months of intensive physiotherapy and psychological support before she could walk again.

During this time, she continued to excel in her role and to share her experiences, to support awareness of the physical and mental health issues she has faced. Kynleigh finally climbed Mount Snowdon in June this year.

The judges said:
“Kynleigh has displayed fabulous determination and courage to succeed in the face of serious health obstacles and is blazing a trail for young women in construction”

This category was judged by:
Carla Keegans, social entrepreneur
Tom Northway, chair, Zed Pods

Highly commended
Rosie O’Neill, CHP

Sponsored by:

Hebron Housing

• Hebron provides supported housing to vulnerable women, and currently has 14 residents
• Hebron’s ethos is based on the belief that all women deserve safe and aesthetically pleasing housing
• The team regularly goes the extra mile, and has improved the lives of many vulnerable people

Hebron Housing provides a safe, sustainable, empowering and uplifting environment for single women who are facing a multitude of challenges in their lives.

Launched last year, Hebron provides accommodation to 14 residents across four properties.

Central to the organisation’s ethos is the belief that all women deserve safe and aesthetically pleasing housing. The team furnishes Hebron’s homes meticulously, sourcing items from charity shops or repurposing them. 

The team regularly goes the extra mile, arranging bespoke activities for each tenant, as well as organising coffee mornings and activity days.

One notable success story involves a tenant with severe mental health issues who was finding it hard to get out of bed each day. With daily support from the Hebron team and the right mix of love and firm direction, she has taken huge steps forward. Six months later, she volunteers in a charity shop, attends groups and workshops, and has significantly improved her overall well-being.

The judges said:
“The team impressed us with its delivery of a service that provides a safe, sustainable and empowering environment for vulnerable women to progress in their recovery”

This category was judged by:
Emily Cole, programme lead for Greater Manchester Housing First and rough sleeper accommodation programme, Great Places
Shaun Harley, executive director for strategy, culture and digital, Lincolnshire Housing Partnership
Catherine Ryder, chief executive, PlaceShapers

Highly commended
Adullam Homes Housing Association, Denbighshire project team

Sponsored by:

Origin Housing, Camden Young People’s Service

• Origin’s team provides support and accommodation to 58 young people leaving care in Camden
• Over the past year, the team has helped 16 young people make the transition into their own properties
• Residents are given tailored support to help them build a future outside the care system

Origin’s dedicated team provides essential support and accommodation for 58 young people aged between 16 and 25 leaving care in Camden, 40 of whom are unaccompanied minors.

Over the past year, 16 care leavers have successfully transitioned into their own Origin property within the borough, marking a significant step in their journey towards independent living. The average length of stay is around 18 months to two years.

Residents are allocated a key worker to support them with skills such as budgeting, tenancy management, life skills, accessing employment or training and other areas identified in their individual support plan.

Of the young people being supported, 32 attend college, three attend university, 11 are employed and three are trainees, interns or apprentices. One resident was recently promoted to a management position; as a chef he often shares new ideas with the team. Others are training to be hairdressers, nail technicians, mechanics, plumbers, graphic designers and personal trainers.

The dedication of this team is making a real difference to the lives of these young people.

The judges said:
“Too often, care leavers face terrible life outcomes as they disappear through the cracks. Well done for choosing to
work with this group, providing safe housing as a foundation”

This category was judged by:
Carla Keegans, social entrepreneur
Tom Northway, chair, Zed Pods

Sponsored by:

Orbit Group, Thriving Communities team

• This dedicated team of 31 supports Orbit customers through the group’s Better Days programme
• They support about 8,000 people with employment, financial inclusion and mental health
• The team builds trust in communities and adapts services according to resident feedback

This team is made up of 31 professionals and sector experts who are dedicated to supporting Orbit customers via its Better Days programme. Before the cost of living crisis, this programme – which offers free universal services to every customer in order to support financial inclusion, mental health, employment and skills – was already helping more than 5,000 people a year. That figure has risen to a projected 8,000 customer interventions in 2023-24.

As demand has grown, the team has been instrumental in mobilising a raft of new measures, based on customer feedback, to support people with welfare benefits and income maximisation, as well as offering advice on energy usage and savings.

Team members are passionate about supporting residents and have all taken the time to develop their professional knowledge. 

The team has provided access to services for customers who otherwise may not have sought help. Its members take time to build trust within their communities and use resident feedback to adapt not only the services they deliver locally, but also to effect change within Orbit itself.

The judges said:
“Orbit’s team have tailored their approach to the different needs of their communities, which is having a positive impact on resident engagement [and] issues like social isolation”

This category was judged by:
Emily Cole, programme lead for Greater Manchester Housing First and rough sleeper accommodation programme, Great Places
Shaun Harley, executive director for strategy, culture and digital, Lincolnshire Housing Partnership
Catherine Ryder, chief executive, PlaceShapers

Sponsored by:

Progress Housing Group, Brighter Futures

• This initiative targets Progress Housing Group tenants, offering training and six-month placements
• It brings fresh perspectives to the group, while boosting productivity, innovation and employee morale
• Candidates emerge with enhanced skills and work experience that can increase their employability

Brighter Futures is more than a recruitment campaign; it is a ground-breaking project by Progress Housing Group that redefines talent acquisition in the housing sector. Targeting its tenants, the initiative provides meaningful employment opportunities, while tapping into an often-overlooked talent pool, bringing fresh perspectives into the organisation, while enhancing community engagement.

The six-month placements offered through Brighter Futures include everything from administrative to technical roles. It incorporates training that equips participants with the skills they need for their current roles and future career. Participants report significant personal growth, increased confidence and a new sense of purpose. For Progress, this has led to improved productivity, innovation and employee morale. It also creates a pipeline of skilled workers familiar with Progress’ culture, reducing turnover and recruitment costs.

The programme’s structure is easily adaptable for other landlords. By investing in its tenants, Progress not only improves individual lives, but also strengthens the economic and social vitality of the communities it serves.

The judges said:
“We were impressed by the fact that Progress concentrated its efforts on its tenants – an underutilised and underrepresented group when it comes to employment in the sector”

This category was judged by:
Mushtaq Khan, chief executive, Housing Diversity Network
Annalisa Langton, head of engagement and diversity, The Guinness Partnership

Mandy Buxey

• Mandy Buxey’s involvement in a range of programmes has had a big impact on her community
• In 2019, she set up Mandy’s Food Cupboard to help supply vulnerable people
• As well as a food bank, she co-launched a ‘bathroom bank’ to tackle hygiene poverty

In 2019, Mandy Buxey set up Mandy’s Food Cupboard to help supply vulnerable people. She set up her own links with local supermarkets and suppliers, and supported people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today, this initiative has grown into something many are appreciative of, particularly when the local food bank had to close for a period. During Christmas 2022, Ms Buxey handed out 58 food parcels.

When delivering her parcels, what struck Ms Buxey was the number of requests for other essentials, from nappies, soap and shampoo, to incontinence pads. A conversation in the summer of 2023 led to the creation of the Paulsgrove Bathroom Bank, which Ms Buxey launched alongside Father Hugo Deadman from St Michael and All Angels Church and another local resident. This project tackles hygiene poverty; its users can choose essential bathroom items, free and without any need for a voucher or a referral.

Ms Buxey volunteers here three times per week. She also volunteers at a men’s social group. There is little she isn’t involved in, and the difference she makes in her local community is inspirational.

The judges said:
“Mandy’s extensive involvement in various community programmes beyond just housing has had a significant impact on improving the lives of local residents”

This category was judged by:
Michelle Baker, board member and committee chair, Eastlight Community Homes
Anna Kear, chief executive, Tonic Housing

Pia Honey, No Floor No More

• This is the third award taken home this year by Pia Honey and her company, No Floor No More
• She and her team have helped more than 800 families access or replace their flooring
• This fresh, simple and replicable idea is making a real difference to families across Hertfordshire

This award is the third won by Pia Honey and her community interest company, No Floor No More. This is testament to the innovation and freshness of her idea, and to the real difference it makes to the lives of council tenants across Hertfordshire.

Ms Honey founded her company after discovering that all flooring is removed from many social homes once occupants leave. 

No Floor No More rescues and recycles flooring and is therefore able to offer products like carpet and vinyl at a much cheaper rate than if bought in a shop. Households receiving benefits can buy flooring at an even more reduced rate. 

Over the past year, Ms Honey and her team have helped more than 800 families access or replace their flooring. What the team is most proud of in that period, however, is managing to collect and recycle 3,500 square metres of carpet left over from an event.

As one team member put it: “We’re not a big company with lots of experience, so I think that is a massive accomplishment.”

The judges said:
“Pia has done something that other housing providers should look to learn from and replicate. We are really excited to see where No Floor No More goes next”

This category was judged by:
Emily Batchford, environment and sustainability business partner, Stonewater
Laura Pluck, group director of communities, Wheatley Group

Nick Apetroaie
Chief executive, Habinteg Housing

Michelle Baker
Board member and committee chair,  Eastlight Community Homes

Emily Batchford
Environment and sustainability business partner, Stonewater

Jacqueline Brown
Business director, John Southworth Builders

Charlotte Carpenter
Executive director of growth and  business development, Karbon Homes

Leslie Channon
Director, Channon Consultancy

Anna Clarke
Director of policy and public affairs, The Housing Forum

Emily Cole
Programme lead – Greater Manchester Housing First and rough sleeper accommodation programme, Great Places

Debra Edwards
Co-production champion, Technology for our Ageing Population: Panel for Innovation

Shaun Harley
Executive director for strategy, culture and digital, Lincolnshire Housing Partnership

Tracy Harrison
Chief executive, Northern Housing Consortium

Fiona Howie
Chief executive, Town and Country Planning Association

Kayley Hyman
Founder, Holistic Hoarding 

Anna Kear
Chief executive, Tonic Housing

Carla Keegans
Social entrepreneur

Libby Kerman
Sustainability manager, Lincolnshire Housing Partnership

Mushtaq Khan
Chief executive, Housing Diversity Network

Suresh Lal
Partner (housing), Odgers Interim

Annalisa Langton
Head of engagement and diversity, The Guinness Partnership

Joanna Lee-Mills
Partner and head of social housing development, Shakespeare Martineau 

Eamon McGoldrick
Managing director, National Federation of ALMOs

Lynne Nicholls
Director, Leonis Solutions

Tom Northway
Chair, Zed Pods

Laura Pluck
Group director of communities, Wheatley Group

Hony Premlal
Chair, Eldon Housing, and co-chair, Women in Social Housing London

Catherine Ryder
Chief executive, PlaceShapers

Charmaine Simei
Chief executive, Tuntum Housing Association

Fayann Simpson
Chair of the resident services board, L&Q

Aimee Tomalin
Company secretary, Cartrefi Conwy

Nathan Warren
Group director, growth and partnerships, Sanctuary

Louise Winterburn
Deputy chief executive, World Habitat

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