Birmingham brings the house down at national awards ceremony

Birmingham City Council today won high praise from the Housing Minister after winning two awards at a prestigious national awards ceremony.

The council received recognition for outstanding work on meeting the needs of vulnerable people and raising the standard of customer services at the UK Housing Awards. Birmingham was up against stiff competition from across the country to win the 2 UK Housing Awards at the London Hilton this afternoon.

Housing Minister John Healey said, "I congratulate the team at Birmingham City Council behind the Supporting People Programme Lay Assessors and the South Lozells Housing Regeneration consultation project, who are showing what can be achieved despite the recession, and every winner today is delivering the very best housing and services where they are needed most.”

Birmingham’s Supporting People programme was commended for how it involved customers in the assessment of funded services. The programme provides housing and support for up to 40,000 vulnerable people, worth £51.9 million. Customers have been given the confidence and skills to scope, shape and assess services to make sure the Birmingham Supporting People programme suits customer needs.

The council was also applauded for its work on the South Lozells Housing Regeneration consultation project which has used an impressive 3D computer model, and interactive website to improve customer service. This project was funded by Urban Living, the Birmingham Sandwell Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder. The project raised the standard of customer service through an innovative consultation programme, encouraging local people to attend the project meetings and to get involved in the regeneration of South Lozells.

Cllr John Lines, Cabinet Member for Housing (pictured) said, “I’m delighted that Birmingham is getting the recognition it deserves. This is a great day for Birmingham as we’ve beat some exceptional competitors from across the United Kingdom to win these awards. The projects are very different, but the one thing they have in common is that they deliver excellent services for our people. I’m very proud of my staff for their hard work. Supporting People reaches the most vulnerable people in the community and in these difficult times I'm delighted by the example set by our workforce."

Elaine Elkington, Strategic Director for Housing and Constituencies said, "This is fantastic news for the Directorate and a testament to the commitment and dedication of staff who's sole focus is on improving quality of life for people in Birmingham."

CIH Chief Executive, Sarah Webb, said: "I am delighted that so many excellent entries were received this year, and this is evident from the high standard of the short-listed finalists. I want to congratulate all the organisations who have reached the finals. Congratulations to Birmingham, their work is a true inspiration to all of us."

The council’s NEETS (Not in Employment, Education or Training) apprentice scheme, which helps 16-18 year olds find employment through education and training was also nominated in the housing and education category.

The UK Housing Awards are run in partnership by the Chartered Institute of Housing and Inside Housing magazine.