FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR NATIONAL FEDERATION OF ALMOs AWARDS 2012

Published by CarysSamuels for National Federation of ALMOs in Housing and also in Communities

The National Federation of ALMOs (NFA) has announced the finalists from over 100 impressive entries in the leading annual awards programme.

Representing 55 ALMOs who manage just under half of all council-owned homes in England, the NFA is this year celebrating its 10^th anniversary and the ever-increasing diversity of the sector with its sixth annual awards.

Honouring those who have dedicated time, resources and, above all, enthusiasm to improving the lives of their neighbours and communities, the NFA Awards recognise the hard work of ALMO tenants, resident groups, board members and officers across the country. Entries are always of a very high standard, and this year is no exception, with submissions showcasing a wide range of inspiring projects, partnerships and individuals.

The awards’ independent judging panel consisted of Sue Roberts MBE, NFA Chair; Michael Gelling, Chair of TAROE (Tenants and Residents Organisations of England); Michelle Reid, Chief Executive of TPAS (Tenant Participation Advisory Service); and Stuart MacDonald, Editor of Inside Housing magazine, who were impressed with the quality of entries.

Sue Roberts said: “This remains a challenging year for the housing sector as we all work hard to implement new policies from government including changes to funding and welfare reform as well as the forthcoming green deal.  Our members, their residents and staff continue to show outstanding dedication and develop creative projects which make their communities better places to live in.”

Sponsoring the awards this year is the nation’s leading energy supplier British Gas and leading repairs and maintenance company Kier.

Three finalists were selected in each of the eight categories, and the winners will be announced at a ceremony held at the Midland Hotel in Manchester on 11 July as part of the NFA’s annual two-day conference. 

The finalists in full are:

Best Community Initiative

Derby Homes – OSCAR Neighbourhood Watch

Salix Homes – Making Differences Count

Hounslow Homes – WeAre1

Most Outstanding Resident

City West Homes – Marie Froggatt

Stockport Homes – Jackie Myerscough

Homes for Haringey – Yvonne Denny

Most Innovative Project

Barnet Homes – The Barnet Group

Salix Homes – New Barracks Retrofit

Northwards Housing – ‘Safe, Sound, Off the Ground’

ALMO Team Member of the Year

Wolverhampton Homes – Wilson Severn

Hounslow Homes – Tina Jenkins

City West Homes – Mike Wilson

Best Use of Communication

The Gateshead Housing Company – Money Matters

Northwards Housing – Smartphone App

Brent Housing Partnerships – Youth Editorial Board

Board Member of the Year

Wolverhampton Homes – Ann Ramsbottom

Derby Homes – Bob Osler

Berneslai Homes – Joe Hayward

Most Effective Partnership

Wolverhampton Homes – Partnership with Timken Vocational Training Centre

Lewisham Homes – Community Investment Programme

Stockport Homes – Act Family

Most Outstanding Young Person

Lewisham Homes – Sachen Whyte

Salix Homes – Charlotte Boardman

Hackney Homes – Gabriel Hardisty-Miller