Bristol and Midlands-based Ashley Community Housing has been shortlisted for the UK Housing Awards 2016.
The awards, which recognise outstanding work by housing organisations to improve the lives of people in their communities, are organised by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) and Inside Housing magazine.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this year's awards attracted more than 250 entries from all over the UK.
Ashley Community Housing (ACH) is now one of six left in the running for the award for an Outstanding Approach to Meeting Specialist Housing Needs.
Since 2008 ACH have successfully resettled hundreds of individuals from refugee backgrounds – developing their independence, promoting their positive contribution to the community and easing their integration into UK life.
The organisation has received national recognition for its resettlement services and has been awarded a Silver Stevie at the International Business Awards 2015. ACH has also been a finalist in the Lloyds Bank UK National Business Awards 2014/2015 and an Impact finalist in the Natwest SE100 Awards 2015.
Ashley Community Housing's Chief Executive Fuad Mahamed commented on the UK Housing Awards nomination: “I'm very grateful for the nomination. The efficiency of our resettlement service only adds to the long-term benefits for our tenants who, once settled in housing, can focus on building skills and moving towards permanent employment through our Himilo training subsidiary."
The winners will be revealed at a ceremony at the Lancaster London Hotel on 26 April and impressionist and comedian, Rory Bremner will present the awards. The awards are sponsored by Campbell Tickell, Capsticks, CHAS, Higgins, Housemark, The Housing Contact, Mitie, NHBC, Osborne and United Living.
CIH chief executive Terrie Alafat said: “The UK Housing Awards recognise the great work being done by housing professionals and organisations across the industry, but they also push us all to do better as a sector. We hope the achievements of our finalists will inspire others as they aim to provide the best possible services for residents and communities.
“Congratulations to all of the organisations that have been shortlisted, and best of luck for the 20th anniversary ceremony – win or lose your work will help inspire us all to improve."
Emma Maier, editor of Inside Housing, said:
“The quality of the entries rose again this year so even to get this far is an amazing achievement. In the face of some really stiff competition, Ashley Community Housing has shown it is performing at the highest level - well done! Being our 20th anniversary means the evening will be even more memorable and we have some great celebrations planned"
AN OUTSTANDING APPROACH TO MEETING SPECIALIST HOUSING NEEDS
Ashley Community Housing – Himilo, employment first programme
Calderdale Council and Connect Housing – Heatherstones Court
East Thames – Beverley Lewis House
Golden Lane Housing – Delivering new housing solutions
Irwell Valley Housing Association – Shore Green
Jobs Friends and Houses – JFH Lettings
Please email: shaun.hickman@ashleyhousing.com or call: 0117 9540 433
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