Northern Housing Awards 2026: The clocktower is ticking : Housing Digital

The shortlist and a new venue has been announced for next month’s Northern Housing Awards, so check out who is competing for a prize

Work is well under way behind the scenes to prepare the stage – literally and metaphorically – for next month’s Northern Housing Awards.

A key milestone is the recent release of the shortlist of finalists. As ever, the calibre of candidates has proved exceptional – the judging panel were certainly put through their paces, but they’re used to that.

The Northern Housing Awards are taking place on the evening of Thursday, 21 May in Manchester city centre. It’s critical to note that this year the event is taking place in a new venue: The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel on Oxford Road.

On the night, following a drinks reception and a slap-up gala dinner, the winners will be revealed during a glittering awards ceremony, hosted by comedian and actor Justin Moorhouse.

Guests can take inspiration from the after dinner speech, when former athlete turned motivational speaker, Derek Redmond will take to the podium.

One of the country’s top athletes in the 80s and 90s, the World and European relay champion twice broke the 400m record. The 1992 Barcelona Olympics saw the end of his athletics career, however, but he went out with grit and determination in a scene that became an inspirational moment in Olympics history.

Representing his country as an individual runner, he was among the favourites in the 400m semi-final race. However at the 250m mark he tore his hamstring. Despite the injury, he hobbled to the finish line with the help of his father – cheered on by the crowd.

Redmond was determined that his injury would not keep him down, nor has it. He has since played basketball for England and played rugby 7s. And, of course, he was forged an enviable reputation as an inspirational speaker.

The charity partner for the evening is KidsCan Children’s Cancer Research. The organisation funds pioneering research into safer and more effective treatments, with its mission to not only help children survive – but to thrive.

On that note, let’s introduce the shortlist for the Northern Housing Awards 2026…

The Northern Housing Awards 2026

The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, Oxford Street, Manchester M60 7HA

Thursday, 21 May 2026

Book your place or learn more about the awards here

The shortlist for the Northern Housing Awards 2026

Best Repairs and Maintenance Service

Professional Services Partnership of the Year

Brabners

Capsticks LLP

Central Networks

Forbes Solicitors LLP

Foundations

Golden Marzipan

Stephensons Solicitors LLP

Vista Civil Engineering

Best Digital Transformation

HomeHub Info, by Consult Net Zero

Karbon Homes

Magenta Living

Maintel

Neo Technology

Spotr

The Riverside Group

Vico Homes

Wythenshawe Community Housing Group

Technology Partner of the Year

Aareon

Aico

Allpay Limited

Auro

Chameleon Technology

CMSG Ltd

Fortem Solutions Limited

Plentific

Trunk

Voicescape

Best Resident Safety Initiative

Aico – HomeLINK

Auro – Auro Door

Gentoo Group – e-vehicle programme initiative

Incommunities Ltd – Damp, Mould and Condensation initiative

Excellence in Company Culture & Employee Development

Accent Housing

Casey

EFT Group

Fortem Solutions Limited

Great Places Housing Group

HMS Works

L&Q

Manningham Housing Association

North Star Housing

Southway Housing Trust

Northern Housing Partnership of the Year

The Riverside Group, Wates and Constructive Thinking

First Choice Homes Oldham & The National Trust – The Greater & Greener project

Gentoo Group, Sunderland City Council and Northumbria Police – HALO

The Riverside Group & Hankinson Whittle Limited

North Tyneside Council & Equans – Public Sector Reform Debt Support Pilot

Northumberland County Council, Ascent Homes, NE Combined Authority & Homes England

Positive Footprints (part of The Regenda Group) – Shaping Brighter Futures For Children

Magenta Living & Seddon

The Sovini Group and Sefton Council – Sefton 2030

Best Retrofit Initiative or Project

Constructive Thinking Studio in partnership with The Riverside Group & Wates Initiative

Equans & 54North Homes Initiative

First Choice Homes Oldham – SHDF Wave 2

Great Places Housing Group – Richmond Park

Incommunities Ltd – Buttershaw Non-Trads

RE:GEN North West & Peaks & Plains Housing Trust – Lyme Green

RPS Group-Rothwell Plumbing Services Ltd & Together Housing Initiative

Supported/Sheltered Housing Scheme of the Year

Buttress Architects – Salford move-on homes

Care Housing Association – Matthew Eddisford

JDA Architects – Willow Court

Jigsaw Homes – Stork Mews

Karbon Homes – Hedgeley Road and Concorde Way

MSV Housing Group – Shawe View

Onward Homes – Birch Lea Park

The Riverside Group – Primrose Court

Regeneration Scheme of the Year

Accent Housing – Ripleyville, Bradford

Casey & Together Housing Group – Shadsworth, Blackburn

Jigsaw Homes & Keepmoat Homes – The Seasons

John Southworth – Battersby Hat Factory

Thirteen Housing Group – Union Village

Home Builder of the Year

Applethwaite Homes

Gentoo Group

JT Lifestyle Homes

Karbon Homes

L&Q Homes

Onward Homes

Contractor of the Year

Casey

DASCO Construction Ltd

HMS Works

RE:GEN North West

RPS Group- Rothwell Plumbing Services

Seddon

Tapi Carpet & Floors Ltd

Ventro Group

SME of the Year

Consult Net Zero Ltd

DASCO Construction Ltd

Hankinson Whittle Limited

Hispec

John Southworth

JT Lifestyle Homes

Magnum Opus Repairs Ltd

RPS Group – Rothwell Plumbing Services

Stanley Land and Homes

Unity Home and Enterprise

Supply Chain Partner of the Year

Hispec

Jewson Partnership Solutions

PROCare

The Sovini Group

The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, Oxford Street, Manchester M60 7HA

Thursday, 21 May 2026

Book your place or learn more about the awards here

Read more about the shortlisted contenders

Best Repairs and Maintenance Service

Alpha Living

Specialist housing provider Alpha Living’s internal DLO Alpha Works is empowered to achieve the best possible results for repairs and maintenance for residents, achieving record customer satisfaction results. Alpha Works has also successfully expanded its delivery model from its Wirral base to further encompass homes in Yorkshire.

Believe Housing limited

Believe Housing delivers a repairs service shaped around what matters most to customers: quicker responses, clearer communication and better support for complex issues. Using stronger diagnostics, smarter planning and customer insight, they’re creating safer, healthier homes and continually learning to make the service easier, more reliable and genuinely caring.

DASCO Construction Ltd

DASCO Construction delivers a high-performance, tenant-focused repairs and maintenance service across the North West. Combining directly employed skilled teams, robust digital systems and structured contract management, DASCO upgrades homes efficiently at scale while improving energy efficiency, strengthening security and enhancing tenant comfort, trust and long-term housing outcomes.

Equans

Sustainable regeneration expert Equans provides a first-class repairs and maintenance service to Rotherham Council’s 20,000 council homes. Through the contract, Equans make a huge difference to residents across the borough – consistently over-achieving against KPIs and generating over £34m of social value in the town since the contract began.

Irwell Valley Homes

This year, the Irwell Valley Homes repairs and maintenance service has undergone a transformational shift, using customer insight, new technologies and updated ways of working. The organisation has redefined how it delivers services for its tenants – achieving increased satisfaction across repairs – while also enhancing the support provided to colleagues to help them succeed.

Neo Technology

Neo Technology has transformed Hausin’s repairs and maintenance service through a fully integrated digital platform, dynamic contractor portal and intelligent scheduling. The programme delivers real-time transparency, improved first-time fix rates and stronger contractor accountability, creating a faster, more reliable and resident-focused repairs experience.

Vico Homes

Vico Homes delivers an outstanding, safety-driven repairs service powered by innovative technology, skilled and empowered teams, and proactive support for vulnerable tenants. Exceptional first-time-fix performance, rapid emergency responses and strong tenant involvement create a dependable, sector-leading service that continuously improves and strengthens residents’ confidence in their homes.

Professional Services Partnership of the Year

Brabners

Brabners is a purpose-led, independent UK law firm and certified B Corp with one of the North’s largest dedicated social housing teams. In 2025, it provided strategic legal support to registered providers, helping secure funding, manage risk and deliver new affordable homes while protecting services and strengthening governance for tenants.

Capsticks LLP

Capsticks is recognised for its specialist legal support to social landlords, demonstrated through its successful defence of Bolton at Home in a complex statutory nuisance claim. By providing early, evidence-based advice, Capsticks helped protect resources, ensure compliance and support safer, well managed homes amid heightened scrutiny around damp and mould.

Central Networks

Central Networks helps housing providers strengthen cyber resilience through proactive, future-proofed solutions. By combining advanced technologies with expert consultancy, it helps organisations prevent, detect, and respond to threats effectively. The company’s collaborative, managed approach reduces pressure on internal teams while improving visibility, preparedness, and long-term cyber security across the housing sector.

Forbes Solicitors LLP

Forbes offers More than Law. In addition to a comprehensive range of legal services, its housing group offers more to the housing sector. This means more innovative solutions, more impact, more value and more personal, long-lasting relationships built on trust and quality.

Foundations

Foundations partners with housing associations and councils to streamline home adaptations, reduce disputes, and share best practice through national roadshows, helping social landlords deliver faster, safer, and more accessible homes for tenants with disabilities and long term conditions.

Golden Marzipan

Golden Marzipan is an independent consultancy helping housing associations govern and deliver digital, data and technology change with confidence. Through a human-centred approach, robust governance frameworks and practical programme delivery, it aligns strategy with regulation, strengthens data assurance and builds capabilities.

Stephensons Solicitors LLP

Stephensons has been recognised for its significant impact on the operations of housing providers, delivering efficient and precise legal services that facilitate uninterrupted development programmes. Through long-term partnerships and frameworks, such as with Great Places and South Liverpool Homes the firm supports the delivery of much-needed affordable homes.

Vista Civil Engineering

Vista Civil Engineering supports housing providers through its fixed-cost Section 278 delivery model. By reducing risk, accelerating adoption and improving safety, Vista enhances operational efficiency and financial resilience while embedding sustainability and being accountable.

Best Digital Transformation

HomeHub Info, by Consult Net Zero

HomeHub transforms how residents access home information, providing practical tools to reduce energy use, tackle fuel poverty and resolve problems quickly. The platform enhances customer engagement and significantly improves resident satisfaction, while giving landlords a modern, efficient alternative to paper handover packs and an innovative solution to problem resolution.

Karbon Homes

The Service Charge Automation and Management Platform has transformed Karbon’s management of service charges for nearly 10,000 homes. Previously relying on 900 disconnected spreadsheets to produce charges, the new platform has reduced manual effort and improved accuracy. Calculations are automated and schedules are produced at the press of a button.

Magenta Living

Magenta Living’s digital transformation showcases a strategic, customer-centred modernisation of services. Through innovations such as cloud telephony, enhanced self-service tools and smarter working practices, the organisation has improved accessibility, strengthened efficiency and delivered a cohesive digital journey shaped by customer insight, collaboration and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Maintel

Upgrading the old phone system to a new AI-enabled Zoom voice and video platform has helped transform Unity Housing’s customer service – solving resident queries faster, adopting video to aid first-time fixes for repairs and making smarter use of its skilled advisors.

Neo Technology

Inclusion Group, in partnership with Neo Technology, has transformed its repairs service through an integrated digital operating model combining contractor portals, dynamic scheduling, AI-generated repair summaries and resident insight analytics. The programme delivers real-time transparency, stronger accountability and data-led service improvement, creating a more reliable and resident-focused experience.

Spotr

Spotr and its housing association partners are replacing five-year survey cycles with continuous, AI-powered insight. By unifying stock data into a single asset view and encoding policy as code, they target investment more accurately, cut reactive failures and evidence safer, healthier homes for tenants and regulators.

The Riverside Group

Riverside’s innovative AI digital transformation programme combines a governance-first approach with multi-platform deployment, focusing on workforce capability at scale. While many housing providers experiment with isolated AI tools, Riverside created an integrated AI ecosystem, unifying Salesforce AgentForce, Microsoft Copilot, predictive analytics and agentic AI within a single strategic roadmap.

Vico Homes

Vico Homes transformed customer and colleague experience with AI tools, integrated systems and user-led design to deliver a faster service and smarter decisions. This increased capacity and led to an almost 25% reduction in call answering times. Vico Homes also launched a new digital portal and doubled customer engagement.

Wythenshawe Community Housing Group

Wythenshawe Community Housing Group delivered a major digital transformation by replacing outdated systems with a modern, accessible website, portal and app fully integrated with Salesforce. Co-designed with tenants, the platform improves self-service, reduces phone demand and provides real-time information, creating a more efficient service while significantly improving tenant experience.

Technology Partner of the Year

Aareon

Aareon is transforming social housing through its cloud and AI-first ecosystem – empowering landlords with modern, intuitive technology that improves efficiency, compliance and resident experience. With exceptional collaboration, rapid implementations and innovations, Aareon consistently delivers measurable outcomes, setting a new benchmark for digital transformation in the sector.

Aico

Aico partnered with Selwood Housing to embed the Connected Home Solution into their operations, improving damp and mould management. Through Environmental Sensors and The Gateway, Aico provides real-time data ensuring legislative compliance, the Resident App empowering tenants, and the HomeLINK Portal enabling proactive maintenance, working to create healthier living environments.

Allpay Limited

Allpay Limited has showcased its partnership with Accent Housing, delivering Pay-by-Link Plus to simplify and secure tenant payments. The solution has driven strong digital adoption, improved customer experience and supported income teams to reduce friction, enhance inclusion and deliver measurable outcomes across social housing.

Auro

From its launch in June 2025, Auro Door has been making headlines and securing awards as the world’s first fully integrated and certified IoT fire door. Bringing golden thread compliance, predictive maintenance and a smart response to no-access challenges, Auro Door is the always-on life safety guardian.

Chameleon Technology

Chameleon Technology combines 15 years of smart energy expertise with innovative hardware to deliver the Gateway Connect solution. By bringing together multiple data streams into one affordable platform, Chameleon enables housing providers to proactively manage their portfolios while empowering tenants through accessible energy insights.

CMSG Ltd

CMSG developed bespoke technology enabling Berneslai Homes and Barnsley Council to establish the first integrated ASB management partnership. Through the ASB App and ASB Respect Line, residents receive seamless support, regardless of which agency handles their case, while organisations benefit from case continuity and coordinated responses that deliver safer communities.

Fortem Solutions Limited

Fortem is a specialist provider of property solutions for the social housing sector in repairs and maintenance, capital works and retrofit. Fortem keeps homes safe, warm and well-maintained through tailored systems, innovative technologies and efficient service delivery, driven by a people culture and commitment to excellence.

Plentific

Digital innovator Plentific is committed to a joint mission with housing providers to use technology to make the lives of residents easier, enhancing technology partnerships for social landlords across the North and optimising property operations in real-time, building stronger, more connected communities.

Trunk

Trunk, a Manchester-based digital agency, partnered with Wythenshawe Community Housing Group to deliver a fully integrated website, app and resident portal. Trunk’s research-led approach and commitment to inclusive design produced exceptional results, with engagement rates rising significantly and over 1,300 residents downloading the app within the first week.

Voicescape

Voicescape is the sector’s first fully integrated automation and resident engagement solutions provider for social housing, combining AI, machine learning, behavioural science, and RPA. Serving 120 landlords and local authorities, Voicescape delivers measurable outcomes including life-saving interventions, millions in income recovery, and 100% compliance achievement.

Best Resident Safety Initiative

Aico – HomeLINK

Aico’s recent developments in HomeLINK technology help social landlords proactively protect residents by combining environmental monitoring, structured case management and tenant engagement. Developed in response to Awaab’s Law, the solution improves accountability, transparency and long-term safety outcomes across thousands of homes.

Auro – Auro Door

Gentoo Group – e-vehicle programme initiative

Gentoo Group leads the sector with its resident centred e-vehicle health check programme, delivering in-home safety checks and tailored fire prevention advice. This pioneering initiative empowers residents, reduces lithium-ion battery risks, and sets a new standard for proactive, partnership-driven resident safety in social housing.

Incommunities Ltd – Damp, Mould & Condensation initiative

Incommunities’ Damp, Mould & Condensation initiative puts residents first, with a dedicated response team, clear service standards and straightforward communication. A bespoke Damp Calculator and automated booking speed up surveys and treatments, while hygrometers and Aico sensors support early diagnosis. Auditable case management strengthens consistency and continuous learning across services.

Excellence in Company Culture & Employee Development

Accent Housing

Accent Housing is showcasing its values-led culture, where inclusion, well-being and leadership development drive performance. With a 45% reduction in turnover, 99% training compliance and rising engagement, Accent is building a high-support, high-challenge workplace focused on better outcomes for customers and communities.

Casey

Casey demonstrates a strong commitment to Improving Lives through comprehensive training programmes, apprenticeships, and work experience opportunities. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and sustainability, Casey empowers its workforce to grow, excel, and lead, driving both the company and the industry forward.

EFT Group

EFT Group demonstrates outstanding excellence in company culture and employee development, fostering an inclusive, values-driven environment where people thrive. Through intentional leadership, continuous learning, and meaningful engagement, employees are empowered to grow, collaborate, and perform at their best, driving sustained success, innovation, and long-term organisational impact across teams and communities.

Fortem Solutions Limited

Fortem is an Investors in People Gold company with an employer-centric approach to business. A specialist provider of property solutions for the social housing sector, Fortem keeps homes safe, warm and well-maintained through tailored systems, innovative technologies and efficient service delivery, driven by a people culture and commitment to excellence.

Great Places Housing Group

Great Places unites Health and Safety, Colleague Experience, People Development and HR to create a seamless colleague journey. Insight-led learning, well-being and leadership development build capability, nurture diverse talent and strengthen culture, enabling colleagues to thrive and deliver safe, consistent, customer-focused services across our communities.

HMS Works

HMS, part of the Torus Group, demonstrates excellence through a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and customer focused service. Leveraging their Cultural Architect Programme, survey feedback and engagement with subcontractors and external industry forums, HMS drives staff development, inclusion, and best practice while consistently enhancing customer satisfaction and community outcomes.

L&Q

The organisation goes above and beyond to build a vibrant, inclusive culture where every colleague feels valued and able to thrive. Its bold commitment to EDI, exceptional training pathways and equitable opportunities empowers people to grow with confidence. This people-first approach strengthens culture, inspires best practice and elevates the experience.

Manningham Housing Association

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) fosters a people-first, inclusive culture where staff are supported, developed and recognised. With strong wellbeing initiatives, competitive rewards and evidence-led improvement via annual staff surveys, MHA drives learning and collaboration while staying focused on sector-leading, tenant-centred service and responsible innovation.

North Star Housing

North Star embeds diversity and inclusion through visible leadership, inclusive recruitment and structured development. It applies the Rooney Rule, delivers comprehensive EDI training, supports well-being through Simplyhealth and celebrates cultural events. Board Trainee pathways, internal progression and demographic insight ensure equitable opportunity, fostering a safe, open culture where colleagues feel

Southway Housing Trust

Southway Housing has built a people-centred, inclusive workplace shaped by strong values, colleague voice and a bold focus on equity, wellbeing and development. Southway supports its people to thrive and inspires them to excel – delivering high-quality services and creating positive impact across the communities it proudly serves.

Northern Housing Partnership of the Year

The Riverside Group, Wates and Constructive Thinking

The partnership of Riverside Housing, Wates and Constructive Thinking has designed and delivered a large number of retrofit projects with a technically robust, whole-house, ‘fabric first’ approach. They have prioritised social value initiatives, extending beyond retrofit works and creating meaningful benefits for residents and communities across all operating areas.

First Choice Homes Oldham & The National Trust – The Greater & Greener project

First Choice Homes Oldham and the National Trust have created a cost-neutral, replicable partnership transforming neighbourhood green spaces. By improving biodiversity, developing new maintenance approaches, empowering residents, and rewriting land management practices, the project has enhanced communal spaces, strengthened community pride, and delivered measurable environmental and social benefits across neighbourhoods.

Gentoo Group, Sunderland City Council and Northumbria Police – HALO

HALO is an innovative multi-agency partnership led by Gentoo with Sunderland City Council and Northumbria Police, delivering safer, more resilient neighbourhoods. Through shared intelligence, new technology and joint enforcement, HALO has reduced crime and antisocial behaviour, secured significant investment, strengthened communities and created sustainable conditions for affordable housing across Sunderland.

The Riverside Group & Hankinson Whittle Limited

The Riverside Group and Hankinson Whittle Limited have forged a Northern housing partnership delivering over £2m in contracts. Through initiatives like veteran support, GROW employment, and Feed a Family, they combine innovation, sustainability, and community engagement to strengthen affordable housing, create local jobs, and enhance social and economic outcomes.

North Tyneside Council & Equans – Public Sector Reform Debt Support Pilot

A Public Sector Reform Debt Support Pilot was introduced to support residents of North Tyneside with the high levels of debt they have and finances overall. The pilot supported residents acquire financial stability and confidence along with supporting the authority to recoup debt owed to them.

Northumberland County Council, Ascent Homes, NE Combined Authority & Homes England

Lyndon Walk is a Council scheme of 13 rented bungalows designed for people living with dementia, enabling them to continue living independently within the Blyth community. Funded from five different sources the project utilised innovative building construction techniques and energy efficient heating and power systems to create safe, affordable homes.

Positive Footprints (part of The Regenda Group) – Shaping Brighter Futures For Children

Positive Footprints has brought together housing and education to raise aspirations. Thousands of children are taking part in careers-learning activities through their innovative model. This work has gained national recognition. It is shaping brighter futures for the next generation of change-makers in our communities and the future housing workforce.

Magenta Living & Seddon

The partnership between Magenta Living and Seddon has transformed the stalled, contaminated Three Sails Point site in Widnes into a major regeneration success. Through close collaboration with Homes England and other specialist partners, the partnership de-risked delivery, restored lender confidence and is delivering 243 high-quality affordable homes to the community.

The Sovini Group and Sefton Council – Sefton 2030

Sefton 2030 is a pioneering partnership between The Sovini Group and Sefton Council delivering over 1,000 affordable and sustainable homes. Utilising an integrated supply chain and circular economic model, commercial profits are reinvested into council-led priorities, ensuring long-term resilience and sustained positive impact.

Best Retrofit Initiative or Project

Constructive Thinking Studio in partnership with The Riverside Group & Wates Initiative

This large scale retrofit project was designed and developed by Constructive Thinking in collaboration with Riverside Housing and Wates. Their technically robust, whole-house retrofit designs consider ventilation, moisture, thermal bridging and heating systems to minimise risks such as damp, mould and overheating, using ‘fabric-first’ measures and implementation of renewable technologies.

Equans & 54North Homes Initiative

Equans and 54North Homes delivered a transformative whole-house retrofit to 98 inefficient flats, using innovative technologies to significantly cut energy bills, improve comfort and enhance residents’ well-being. The programme showcases industry-leading design, resident-centred delivery and measurable carbon and cost savings, setting a new standard for social housing retrofit.

First Choice Homes Oldham – SHDF Wave 2

FCHO delivered a £5.4m retrofit programme improving energy efficiency across over 450 homes in Oldham. Using a data-led, fabric-first approach, upgrades included insulation, triple glazing, solar PV and smart heating. The scheme demonstrated a scalable, resident-focused model for large-scale retrofit delivery reducing emissions, cutting fuel bills and improving thermal comfort.

Great Places Housing Group – Richmond Park

Great Places and FairHeat transformed the Richmond Park communal heating system, delivering major efficiency gains through targeted retrofitting. The project achieved a 40% reduction in heat loss and a 23% drop in energy consumption, significantly improving safety, sustainability, and customer comfort across 299 homes.

Incommunities Ltd – Buttershaw Non-Trads

Incommunities is delivering a customer-first retrofit programme across West Yorkshire, upgrading 45 Airey-type homes in Buttershaw with insulation, new windows and doors, ventilation and efficient boilers. EPC ratings rose from E to C, making homes warmer and cheaper to run. Data-led pilots using Switchee technology strengthen evidence and long-term learning.

RE:GEN North West & Peaks & Plains Housing Trust – Lyme Green

The partnership between Peaks & Plains Housing Trust and RE:GEN North West delivered a customer-centred retrofit programme at Lyme Green, installing air source heat pumps (ASHP), insulation and solar PV to decarbonise homes. Through strong engagement, on-site support and tailored delivery for vulnerable residents, the project improved energy efficiency, minimised disruption and enhanced well-being.

RPS Group-Rothwell Plumbing Services Ltd & Together Housing Initiative

In partnership, Together Housing and RPS Group embedded a resident-first approach to retrofit delivery. Through strategic planning, clear communication, digital system monitoring and practical in-home adaptations, disruption was minimised. Ongoing engagement and transparent support ensured confidence, comfort and trust were maintained throughout the large scale retrofit programme.

Best Resident Support / Wellbeing Initiative

Berneslai Homes

Berneslai Homes’ Ambition programme delivers person-centred well-being and employability support for tenants facing complex barriers. Through voluntary, one-to-one coaching and partnership working, it addresses confidence, health, and practical needs. The holistic approach remove barriers, improves wellbeing, builds independence, and creates sustainable pathways into education, training, and employment for individuals.

Gentoo Group

Gentoo’s Housing Transformation programme redefined customer support through a proactive, customer-led well-being model. Smaller neighbourhood patches, expanded specialist support and mobile community services deliver personalised, early intervention. Underpinned by technology and skilled colleagues, the programme reduces crisis, strengthens communities and measurably improves wellbeing and quality of life across Sunderland.

Incommunities Ltd

From a Money Matters service helping customers to access £1.45m in additional income, to a safeguarding team seeing a 200% rise in referrals. Incommunities’ entry highlights why their combined tenancy well-being, person-centred, approach strengthens resilience and improves life chances; enabling their customers to live safer, more stable and fulfilling lives.

MSV Housing Group

MSV, with partners including Manchester City Council, has launched The Blunt Truth, working with young people to prevent knife crime in South Manchester. This youth-led initiative empowers young people to reflect on choices, consequences, and resilience and has already reached over 2,000 young people, working across schools and youth provisions.

Southway Housing Trust – Southway Academy

Southway Housing Trust’s ‘Southway Academy’ empowers tenants of all ages through confidence-building, hands-on experience, and personalised support. The four-week programme has transformed participants’ well-being and employment prospects, with positive employment outcomes. The Academy exemplifies Southway’s commitment to opportunity, inclusion, and improving lives within its communities.

Southway Housing Trust – Youth Elevate Initiative

Youth Elevate, Southway Housing Trust’s flagship initiative, is transforming young lives in South Manchester. Born from a commitment to tackle high NEET levels, it empowers 16-24-year-olds through tailored coaching, well-being support, and paid placements. By rebuilding confidence and creating real career pathways, Youth Elevate turns challenges into opportunities.

Thirteen Group & Voicescape

Thirteen Group, one of the North East’s largest housing associations, partnered with Voicescape to deliver daily automated well-being checks across their specialist accommodation portfolio. The initiative proactively identifies vulnerable residents requiring support, has delivered life-saving interventions, and achieved outstanding outcomes: 93% of residents feel safe; 94% report living more independently.

Thirteen Housing Group

Thirteen’s ‘home starter pack scheme’ is for customers who need some extra help in setting up their homes with furniture and household items. They reclaim and repurpose all the essential items including beds, sofas, tables, cooking equipment, curtains and soft furnishings. To date they have supported over 400 families.

Together Housing Group

Together Housing’s Cost of Living Strategy delivers compassionate, data-driven support that strengthens financial resilience, reduces hardship and improves wellbeing. Through targeted interventions, partnership working and resident led insight, the initiative has boosted incomes, sustained tenancies and empowered thousands, creating more confident, stable and resilient communities across its diverse neighbourhoods

Vico Homes

Vico Homes is redefining landlord led well-being by blending clinical expertise with compassion and human connection. By embedding NHS professionals and creating spaces where people feel safe, seen and supported, we prevent crisis, rebuild confidence and help residents thrive, proving housing can be a powerful driver of better well-being.

Best Initiative for Tackling Homelessness

Bernard Taylor Partnership Ltd (BTP)

Shawe View is a purpose-built supported housing scheme in Trafford delivering 12 high-quality “Move On” homes for people experiencing homelessness, combining stable accommodation, tailored support and partnership working to enable independent living.

Casey

The Cavendish House Refurbishment Scheme in Manchester, completed by Casey, is a landmark transformation of a historical mill into nine one-bedroom apartments for social rent. Providing dedicated, flexible support for people aged 18-25, Cavendish has given young people the guidance, life skills and resilience needed to successfully manage their tenancy.

Launchpad Homeless Veterans Charity (AF&V Launchpad Ltd)

Launchpad provides effective accommodation and support to homeless Armed Forces veterans. They help veterans successfully overcome the underlying causes of their homelessness. Last year, 80% of Launchpad’s leavers successfully moved on to long-term accommodation. 36% found employment. Most were previously living on the streets. Launchpad’s delivers sustained, cost-effective homelessness recovery.

Resonance

Launched in 2021, Resonance’s National Homelessness Property Fund 2 unlocks private investment to provide high-quality homes and wraparound support for people experiencing homelessness in the North West. Working with Redwing, Salix Homes, Stockport Homes Group and Bolton at Home, it delivers proven, scalable impact and lasting tenancy sustainment.

Supported/Sheltered Housing Scheme of the Year

Buttress Architects – Salford move-on homes

Salford Move-on Homes provides high-quality accommodation for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Designed through extensive consultation with residents and support organisations, the scheme delivers independence, dignity, and community integration. They set a new standard for socially responsive affordable housing in the North West.

Care Housing Association – Matthew Eddisford

This scheme is an example of a home produced entirely with the needs of the tenant in mind with a focus on quality and sustainability. It is a perfect example of how a collaborative approach can produce fantastic tenant outcomes.

JDA Architects – Willow Court

Willow Court, Bury, is a newly completed supported housing scheme delivering 13 self-contained assisted-living apartments for adults with learning disabilities and autism. Developed with Irwell Valley Homes and partners, it combines autism-informed design, accessible homes and 24-hour support, enabling independent living within a secure, integrated specialist campus setting.

Jigsaw Homes – Stork Mews

Stork Mews is a modern, supported housing scheme in Wigan offering 10 high-quality, sustainable homes and personalised support. With accessible design, keyworker guidance, community initiatives and fully furnished flats, it provides a safe, welcoming stepping-stone towards independent living for adults with low to medium support needs in a well-connected neighbourhood.

Karbon Homes – Hedgeley Road and Concorde Way

Hedgeley Road and Concorde Way is a partnership scheme between Karbon Homes and South Tyneside Council. The development provides specialist supporting housing with 24/7 care provision, to residents with complex care needs, designed to help them live independently in their own home.

MSV Housing Group – Shawe View

Shawe View is MSV Housing’s purpose-built “Move On” supported housing scheme in Trafford providing 12 high-quality, self-contained one-bedroom homes for social rent, for people who have found themselves homeless. This is the first of its kind in Trafford and since opening has been in high demand and fully occupied.

Onward Homes – Birch Lea Park

Birch Lea Park is Onward’s flagship Housing with Care scheme, offering over-55s in Hattersley a comfortable, independent and aspirational experience of later life. It offers 91 modern, spacious apartments complemented by tailored on-site care and a range of in-house amenities to benefit residents, their visitors and the local community.

The Riverside Group – Primrose Court

Primrose Court, a 39-unit Retirement Living scheme for residents over 55, was refurbished under Riverside’s Retirement Living Investment Programme. Works enhanced safety, accessibility, and communal facilities with dementia-friendly design. The scheme promotes independence and wellbeing, sets a benchmark for future projects and shares best practice in resident engagement.

Regeneration Scheme of the Year

Accent Housing – Ripleyville, Bradford

Accent’s regeneration has transformed a declining Bradford estate into 73 sustainable, accessible affordable homes. Replacing outdated flats with family housing, multi-generational properties and net zero ready design, the scheme reduces fuel poverty, strengthens community stability and delivers lasting social, economic and environmental renewal. The scheme has delivered an ethical legacy.

Casey & Together Housing Group – Shadsworth, Blackburn

The Shadsworth Regeneration Scheme in Blackburn, completed by Casey, is a landmark estate-wide transformation. Refurbishing over 850 homes alongside new community assets, public realm improvements and employment pathways, the scheme has revitalised homes, reconnected residents and reshaped Shadsworth into a safer, healthier and more resilient community.

Jigsaw Homes & Keepmoat Homes – The Seasons

Worsley Mesnes has been transformed through true community-led regeneration, delivering new homes, a vibrant shopping parade, green spaces and major social value. The scheme has reduced deprivation, boosted employment and skills, doubled housing demand and restored pride – reversing decades of social, economic and physical decline.

John Southworth – Battersby Hat Factory

Battersby Hat Factory is presented as a heritage-led regeneration that rescued a derelict industrial site, delivered 45 mixed-tenure homes, revitalised the local economy, and strengthened community identity through restoration, inclusive design and deep resident engagement, leaving a lasting social, economic and physical legacy for Stockport.

Thirteen Housing Group – Union Village

Union Village in Gresham, Middlesbrough transformed long-derelict land into a safe, high-quality neighbourhood through strong partnerships, careful design and meaningful community involvement. The scheme delivered new homes, reduced crime, improved stability and created social value, demonstrating how integrated regeneration can provide a foundation for sustainable economic and social growth.

Best Affordable Housing Development (Up to £10M)

Casey – Vaughan Steet, Royton

At Vaughan Street, Royton, Casey created an affordable rent and shared ownership neighbourhood that pairs excellent build quality with future-proof sustainability. Energy-efficient fabric-first construction, ASHP and MVHR reduce bills, while accessible design and generous gardens help residents thrive and feel part of a welcoming community.

Castles and Coasts Housing Association – Summerscales, Gosforth

Summerscales, delivered by Castles and Coasts, provides energy-efficient and affordable homes in the Lake District National Park. Through pride, principled design and strong local partnerships, the development strengthens the existing community, adding 20 thoughtfully designed homes with mixed tenures, EPC A ratings and advanced solar technology to enhance long-term sustainability.

Incommunities Ltd – Valley View, Shipley

Valley View has transformed a derelict site in Shipley into a thriving, safe neighbourhood, delivering 42 high-quality affordable homes for rent, shared ownership and rent to buy. Designed with feedback from local residents, the energy-efficient scheme features timber-frame construction, MVHR, solar panels, EV charging, and landscaped green spaces.

Magenta Living – Three Sails Point

Magenta Living’s Three Sails Point development in Widnes transforms a stalled brownfield site into a 243-home mixed-tenure neighbourhood. Delivering affordable rent, shared ownership, and specialist supported housing, the scheme restored lender confidence and responded directly to strong local demand, creating an inclusive and sustainable community.

Manningham Housing Association – One Meadow, Bradford

One Meadow is a £5m development of 24 high-quality two-, three- and four-bedroom homes for social rent. Located in an established community with a strong BME presence and conveniently close to local amenities, the scheme offers space, security and belonging for families previously living in overcrowded or unsuitable accommodation.

MSV Housing Group – Parkmount Road, Manchester

Parkmount is a 24-home affordable Passivhaus development delivering ultra-low energy, gas-free homes for affordable rent and rent-to-buy. Built on brownfield land, it combines fabric-first design, air source heat pumps and mechanical ventilation to reduce running costs, tackle fuel poverty and create high-quality homes that transform residents’ lives.

North Star Housing & HMH Architects Ltd – Eldon St, Darlington

This Net-Zero Carbon affordable housing scheme transforms a former Picture Hall site in central Darlington into 12 highly energy-efficient homes for local families. Designed in harmony with surrounding terraces, the development delivers exceptionally low running costs, high-quality living, and long-term benefits for the community.

Northumberland County Council – HUSK Garage Conversions

The Amble HUSK garage sites are four garage sites in Amble which have been re-developed into 14, one- and two-bedroom bungalows using the patented HUSK construction method which uses the existing brick skin of the garages to create modern, energy efficient, accessible bungalows for residents requiring level access accommodation.

Wythenshawe Homes – The Croft

This development delivers high-quality, affordable, mixed-tenure housing designed to support diverse needs and promote community cohesion. With EPC A-rated homes, low-carbon technologies and inclusive design, it reduces living costs while enhancing wellbeing. Residents benefit from safe, attractive surroundings, fostering pride, independence and a strong sense of belonging.

Best Affordable Housing Development (£10M – £20M)

Accent Housing – Ripleyville, Bradford

Accent’s Ripleyville regeneration replaces outdated bedsits with 73 affordable, energy-efficient family homes in Bradford. Designed for dignity, safety and long-term affordability, the development reduces fuel poverty, strengthens community bonds and restores pride, transforming lives as well as the physical landscape.

Buttress Architects – Downley Drive, Ancoats

Downley Drive is a landmark affordable housing development in Ancoats, delivering mixed-tenure, energy-efficient homes with communal green space and a pedestrian-first public realm. Designed for sustainability, inclusivity and long-term affordability, it strengthens community connection and sets a benchmark for balanced, diverse urban living.

First Choice Homes Oldham – West Vale, Oldham

West Vale is First Choice Homes Oldham’s flagship development. The £20m scheme delivered 88 high quality, affordable and sustainable new homes at the gateway to Oldham. There are 26 houses for shared ownership and 62 apartments for affordable rent, all designed to help meet local housing need.

Great Places Housing Group – King Street West, Stockport

Platform is the first affordable housing scheme delivered in Stockport’s MDC Town Centre West regeneration area, delivering 73 high-quality Rent to Buy homes with communal lounges, roof terraces and balconies, all supported by a fabric-first all-electric design in a highly sustainable, walkable location.

Rowlinson & L&Q – Trafford Waters, Manchester

Pearson Place is delivering affordable, aspirational apartment living to a landmark regeneration location. Setting a new benchmark for affordable living, it is bringing the first high-quality, new build apartments to the wider Trafford Waters development, with an enviably high specification – and all on an affordable Rent to Buy basis.

Southway Housing Trust – Warwick Road South, Manchester

Warwick Road South is a fantastic development from Southway Housing Trust and Gecko Homes that provides 80 much-needed affordable homes. Southway worked in partnership with Trafford Council to allocate many rented apartments to people living in temporary accommodation. The shared ownership apartments provide an affordable route onto the housing ladder.

Best Affordable Housing Development ( £20M+)

Gentoo Group – Cricketers Hill, Sunderland

Gentoo’s Cricketers Hill development in Sunderland has transformed a stalled brownfield site into a high-quality, tenure-blind neighbourhood. Delivering 115 affordable homes, the development combines design, EPC A sustainability and green technologies with genuinely affordable living, creating safe, people-centred spaces that improve wellbeing, cut energy costs and strengthen the wider community.

Jigsaw Homes – Bourne Road, Wyre

Bourne Road, transforms a former industrial site into a new 210 home, affordable, inclusive neighbourhood with accessible, energy efficient homes and strong links to local amenities. It supports residents through all life stages, and its well connected layout promotes independence, cohesion and well-being, helping to creating a new thriving community.

M.C.I Developments Ltd – Meadow Lane, Cheshire

MCI combines Keepmoat’s strength with regional expertise to deliver affordable housing that is sustainable, inclusive, and community focused. With a robust pipeline, a proven track record on brownfield regeneration, and a commitment to multi-tenure schemes, we are setting a benchmark for affordable housing in the Northwest.

The Guinness Partnership – Hollingdrake Place, Stockport

Hollingdrake Place comprises of 131 high-quality one and two-bedroom homes for social and affordable rent, directly addressing growing housing demand in Stockport. By transforming a brownfield site, this flagship development provides a clear design statement setting a new benchmark incorporating inclusive design and shared spaces directly in the town centre.

Thirteen Group – Union Village, Middlesborough

Union Village is an affordable housing development in Middlesbrough, designed to national standards with a diverse mix of homes and deep rooted in community engagement. Through co-designed spaces, inclusive lettings, social investment and quality housing, it has created a safe, cohesive neighbourhood where residents report pride, stability and high satisfaction.

Vico Homes – St Mary’s Field, Rotherham

The housing crisis is real and needs creative solutions to build more homes that people can afford. A first-of-its-kind partnership between national house builder Taylor Wimpey and social housing provider Vico Homes has created a 100% affordable development of 135 homes, including rent to buy, shared ownership and affordable rent.

Best Approach to Decarbonisation

Believe Housing limited

Sustainability at Believe Housing means doing the right thing for people and planet. Strong partnerships deliver large-scale upgrades that create warmer, healthier homes, cut emissions and tackle fuel poverty. New homes follow energy-efficient, low-carbon principles, supporting customers and the regional supply chain to make a fair transition to net zero.

Equans

Equans is the UK’s leader in sustainable regeneration, supporting its partners to secure government funding and retrofitting thousands of homes across the country to create warm, safe, affordable places to live. Equans is a company that truly puts zero-carbon and sustainability at the heart of everything it does.

Green Century

Green Century Enterprise is delivering sustainable retrofit, energy-efficiency services, and green-skills development. Our work reduces fuel poverty, improves homes, and empowers local people through training and long-term opportunity, creating meaningful environmental and social impact across the communities they serve.

Halton Housing

For Halton Housing, sustainability means long-term, evidence-led decisions that balance environmental responsibility, social value and financial strength. It is embedded through governance, data, asset strategy and culture. Their future focus is to strengthen intelligence, achieve low carbon homes, responsible procurement and transparent reporting so the organisation remain efficient, and future ready.

Hispec

Hispec leads the sector’s decarbonisation efforts through innovative design, transparent reporting and independently validated performance. With energy efficient products, carbon cutting retrofit solutions and collaboration with the NEA and NFCC on resident safety, Hispec achieves measurable decarbonisation and helps housing providers create safer, more sustainable homes for the future.

John Southworth

John Southworth is an agile, quality-led SME delivering high-performance homes through innovation, collaboration, and uncompromising standards. With certified Passivhaus expertise, a strong sustainability focus, and investment in people and digital systems, the company consistently delivers exceptional outcomes for clients, communities, and residents.

The Carbon Literacy Project

The Carbon Literacy Project is among the largest low-carbon culture-change projects in the UK. All CL participants leave with a common understanding of the climate crisis, making tangible action pledges towards shared goals, uniquely capable of bringing together schools, workplaces and communities through a recognised qualification that drives climate action.

Trust Electric Heating

Trust Electric Heating’s submission showcases a resident-first approach to decarbonisation, delivering low-carbon heating that is affordable, reliable and scalable. By embedding sustainability across design, manufacturing and delivery, Trust demonstrates how carbon reduction can be achieved without compromising comfort, cost or long-term outcomes for residents.

Home Builder of the Year

Applethwaite Homes

Applethwaite Homes excels in high-quality, energy-efficient design, community-focused planning, and future-ready infrastructure. Their thoughtful developments blend craftsmanship with sustainability, supported by strong community engagement and exceptional customer care. Consistently positive buyer feedback and responsibly delivered homes highlight their commitment to innovation, integrity, and enhancing life in Northern communities.

Gentoo Group

Gentoo has delivered a high-quality, innovative homebuilding programme across the North of England, completing over 330 EPC A homes and starting 294 more. Through strong placemaking, sustainable design, modern construction and meaningful community engagement, Gentoo is creating inclusive, energy-efficient neighbourhoods that improve lives and support long-term wellbeing for customers regionally.

JT Lifestyle Homes

JT Lifestyle Homes delivers high-specification, energy-efficient homes using advanced construction technology, including the WLTR robotic wall-laying system. This innovation improves build precision while reducing time, waste and carbon. Homes achieve strong fabric performance and A-rated EPCs, supported by rent-to-buy pathways, quality control, workforce training and community engagement.

Karbon Homes

The Karbon Group delivered 707 new affordable homes across the North East and Yorkshire in 24/25. Karbon provides homes that are high quality, affordable and environmentally sound, and helps build thriving communities around them. Developments are designed and built with the wants and needs of customers at the heart.

L&Q Homes

L&Q, one of England’s largest housing providers, is delivering a wide range of affordable new homes across multiple developments in the North West. A variety of tenures – from affordable rent through to sale and shared ownership – meets local housing needs while offering desirable places to live.

Onward Homes

Onward’s most productive year for housebuilding has also been its most ambitious, embedding new processes and principles to deliver true quality at scale. A 91-bed extra care scheme and a zero carbon development are the highlights from a record-breaking year, in which 434 affordable homes were delivered across the region.

Contractor of the Year

Casey

Casey is a North West contractor setting new standards for building safety, sustainability and social value. Driven by the purpose of Improving Lives, Casey delivers high quality projects that go beyond construction, creating safer homes, stronger communities and lasting value for people and places.

DASCO Construction Ltd

DASCO Construction is a self-funded, multi-award-winning social housing contractor delivering structured growth, operational excellence and measurable social value. Through directly employed skilled teams, strong governance and repeat client partnerships, DASCO consistently protects housing assets, improves tenant outcomes and strengthens communities without compromising quality or accountability.

HMS Works

HMS delivers award winning housing services through innovation, customer-centric leadership, and a highly skilled workforce. Using technology, a Cultural Architect Programme, and industry best practice, HMS drives operational excellence, staff development, inclusion, and community impact, consistently exceeding customer expectations and setting the benchmark for contractor performance.

RE:GEN North West

RE:GEN North West has positioned itself as a purpose-driven delivery partner redefining what contractor excellence looks like in social housing. Recognised as a World Class employer by Best Companies, RE:GEN North West demonstrates how innovation, collaboration and community impact can coexist with commercial resilience, setting a benchmark for contractor performance.

RPS Group – Rothwell Plumbing Services

RPS Group is a Decarbonisation, Renewables & Heating specialist contractor with over 35 years’ experience, combining in-house technical expertise with a strong customer-care ethos. RPS delivers innovative, value-driven programmes, invests in apprenticeships and green skills, supports communities, and builds trusted, long-term partnerships across the North of England.

Seddon

Seddon is a customer-centric contractor with strong family values and authentic moral compass. They strive to build better homes and better lives across the North. Industry-leading skills, processes, technology and innovation set them apart. But the real impact comes from social value delivery, customer satisfaction and community engagement for regeneration.

Tapi Carpet & Floors Ltd

Tapi Smart Flooring Solutions delivers nationwide, end-to-end flooring services for social housing providers, combining the scale and trusted reputation of Tapi Carpets & Floors with a dedicated, business-focused approach. Through innovation, collaboration and strong customer service, the business provides high-quality, cost-effective solutions while delivering meaningful community benefits.

Ventro Group

Ventro Group is a UK contractor delivering fire safety, electrical, and security compliance services. We prioritise life-safety works, use data-driven, cost-effective solutions, and engage residents throughout. Our innovative, structured approach ensures regulatory compliance, enhances safety, provides value for money, and builds trust with clients and communities.

SME of the Year

Consult Net Zero Ltd

Consult Net Zero is a female-founded, family-run retrofit consultancy delivering major funding wins and high-quality programmes that tackle fuel poverty. With strong technical expertise and a resident-first approach, they support councils and housing providers to improve homes, secure investment, and transform energy efficiency across communities.

DASCO Construction Ltd

DASCO Construction is a fast-growing, self-funded SME delivering high-quality planned works and maintenance across the North West housing sector. Combining governance strength, workforce investment and measurable social value, DASCO continues to scale sustainably while maintaining exceptional tenant satisfaction, strong client partnerships and disciplined financial resilience.

Hankinson Whittle Limited

Hankinson Whittle has transformed itself into a values-led, purpose-driven property services provider since its 2022 acquisition. Delivering national services from damp remediation to large-scale refurbishment and protective coatings, the company combines technical expertise with a commitment to communities and residents. Despite sector challenges, Hankinson Whittle has achieved strong financial growth,

Hispec

Hispec Electrical Products has delivered major progress through contractor-focused innovation, efficient retrofit solutions and high-quality technical support. With strong ESG performance, leading product design and a people-first culture, Hispec continues to help housing providers reduce costs, improve safety and deliver more sustainable, reliable outcomes across social housing.

John Southworth

JT Lifestyle Homes

JT Lifestyle Homes is redefining SME housebuilding by combining advanced construction technology, sustainable design and wider access to home ownership. Through robotic construction, energy-efficient homes and its Rent to Buy initiative, the company delivers high-quality housing faster, with greater precision, lower environmental impact and improved accessibility for buyers.

Magnum Opus Repairs Ltd

The company has expanded into new regions while maintaining fast, high-quality repair standards. Their growth has been driven by strong team commitment, with technicians supporting new areas and helping raise performance across the sector. Continued investment in training and development ensures they keep pushing repair standards higher as they grow.

RPS Group – Rothwell Plumbing Services

RPS Group is a family run SME and one of the North’s leading independent decarbonisation and heating specialists. Delivering through directly employed teams, the business combines technical strength with agility and accountability. Recent growth, geographic expansion and continued investment in skills ensure resilient, high quality, client focused delivery.

Stanley Land and Homes

Stanley offers an alternative approach to housing development providing for superior quality affordable schemes. Stanley comprehensively de-risks and delivers projects to high specification requirements whilst applying exemplary estate design. Its ethos is to produce the best possible new affordable homes and to deliver genuine sustainable development.

Unity Homes and Enterprise

For 25 years, Unity Enterprise – a not-for-profit subsidiary of BME housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise – has delivered opportunities for aspiring individuals facing disadvantages to establish and run their own business in Leeds. It provides 153 business units for more than 140 diverse businesses employing over 1,250 people.

Supply-Chain Partner of the Year

Hispec

Hispec Electrical Products has delivered major advancements in retrofit fire detection, modular energy-efficient lighting and supply chain efficiency, supported by stock availability and technical assistance. With recognised ESG progress and a people focused culture, Hispec continues to help the housing sector improve safety, reduce costs and deliver more sustainable homes.

Jewson Partnership Solutions

JPS offer a friendly and innovative partnership approach throughout the supply chain to help social housing providers build, repair and maintain homes more efficiently and cost-effectively. They make it easier for operatives to get the materials they need, helping them get more jobs done and improving the tenant experience.

PROCare

PROCare combines manufacturing strength, technical expertise and innovation with a genuine commitment to supporting the people behind every adaptation request. They help ensure that when a resident is struggling, support is not delayed by process, supply chains or product limitations. They help landlords operate more efficiently and more compassionately.

The Sovini Group

The Sovini Group is a purpose-driven organisation creating opportunities and changing lives. The vertically integrated flagship supply chain ecosystem underpinning its Commercial Group partners’ activities complements and supports its social and not-for-profit businesses, providing investment to build new homes, improve service delivery and support the communities central to its purpose.

Best Use of Technology by a Social Landlord

DocTech & MSV Housing Group (Joint Submission)

MSV Housing have partnered with DocTech, a 30 year supplier of DocuWare, since 2002. This partnership demonstrates best-in-class use of technology by utilising and developing existing solutions to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimise waste and disruption. This has delivered smarter, more sustainable outcomes for residents and operations.

Onward Homes and Enterprise RPA (now part of Voicescape)

Onward Homes transformed its annual Direct Debit adjustment process with Enterprise RPA through Robotic Process Automation. Their innovative approach reduced errors, operational risk, and manual workload while improving customer satisfaction and financial performance. The scalable, replicable model sets a new benchmark for digital innovation in social housing.

The Riverside Group

Leading housing, care and support provider Riverside Group has revolutionised how customer complaints are managed with its groundbreaking use of AI technology within Salesforce. Riverside’s transformation of complaints handling with AI in Salesforce provided sector-leading improvements, enhancing the customer experience, improving operational efficiency, productivity and culture, empowering colleagues.

Wirral Methodist Housing Association

We modernised tenant services through HomeMaster’s digital platforms, automating communication, repairs, arrears, compliance and safeguarding. This led to incredible outcomes across the board, such as reducing the cost of processing each invoice from £1.30 -> £0.13 – a 90% reduction.

Best Customer Experience

Believe Housing limited

Believe Housing’s Development Team delivers outstanding customer experience by building high-quality, energy-efficient homes and providing personalised, compassionate support from first enquiry to long after move in. Clear communication, early engagement and proactive aftercare ensure every resident feels informed, cared for and confident, creating seamless journeys and homes that improve lives.

Fortem Solutions Limited

Fortem is a specialist provider of property solutions for the social housing sector in repairs & maintenance, capital works and retrofit. Fortem keeps homes safe, warm and well-maintained through a customer focused approach, innovative technologies and efficient service delivery, driven by a people culture and commitment to excellence.

HMS Works

HMS, part of the Torus Group, delivers innovative, customer focused housing services, combining reactive repairs, planned maintenance, refurbishment, and new build projects. Through technology, leadership development, and customer engagement, HMS achieves high satisfaction, continuous improvement, and social impact, setting a benchmark for quality, transparency, and community value in the sector.

Incommunities Ltd

Incommunities’ empty homes standard has been described as “life-changing” by one customer. Their New Customer Offer, which provides personalised support throughout the Starter Tenancy made another customer feel “reassured from day one”. Their entry highlights how they’ve significantly improved new customer satisfaction and set a new benchmark for social housing.

Livin

Livin delivers seamless, personalised services by code-signing the My Livin app and portal with residents. Using diverse, three-tier engagement and real-time insight across 18 service areas, they actively involve under-represented voices, embed feedback into decision-making, and ensure services are genuinely shaped, improved and powered by customers.

Neo Technology

Neo Technology has enhanced Hausin’s customer experience by delivering a fully integrated digital repairs service with real-time resident updates, dynamic contractor scheduling and improved first-time fix performance. The transformation has increased transparency, reduced missed appointments and strengthened accountability, creating a more reliable, responsive and resident-focused repairs journey.

Unity Home and Enterprise

Unity’s Tenancy Health Checks introduce a truly customer-centric approach that exceeds traditional sector expectations. Rather than limiting contact to reactive service requests, Unity proactively reaches out to every resident to understand their needs in a holistic, personalised way. This ensures all tenants receive meaningful support tailored to their circumstances.

Vico Homes

The Vico Homes Property Investment Team delivers a truly resident-centred experience by building real relationships, engaging early through meaningful face-to-face contact and tailoring communication to each customer. Their peer-to-peer support model, strong on-site presence and co-designed social value activities create a uniquely personal service that empowers residents and enhances communities.

Landlord of the Year

Leeds Jewish Housing Association

Founded in 1953, Leeds Jewish Housing Association (LJHA) is committed to providing and maintaining sustainable community housing, focusing predominantly on the needs of the local Jewish community but welcomes people from all communities. It has 500 properties, a mixture of homes for single people, families, older people and shared ownership.

Manningham Housing Association

Manningham Housing Association manages homes for more than 6,000 residents in Bradford district. It is the first association in the country accredited for its work in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, and the only one in the world to achieve the global Standard for Diversity and Inclusion in HR Management.

Unity Homes and Enterprise

Unity operates not only as a landlord, but an anchor organisation. Our success is defined by how well our tenants prosper both economically and socially. We aim to tackle not only housing needs, but also economic and social challenges by enabling people to become entrepreneurs, find jobs and access training.

Tenant of the Year

Diane Shepley-Newton, MSV Housing Group

Diane Shepley-Newton is the driving force behind the Carrbrook Hub, creating a welcoming space that reduces isolation and strengthens community connections. Through organising activities, trips and fundraising events, she brings residents together, builds confidence and belonging, and ensures tenant voices are heard through her active Scrutiny involvement.

Jackie Best, Accent Housing

Jackie Best, an Accent customer since 2020, has transformed responses to anti-social behaviour and hate crime. Drawing on her experience supporting young offenders, she helped shape policy, co-developed an ASB Toolkit, improved communication accessibility, and championed the REACT case management system, strengthening accountability, response times, and community safety.

Veronica Cuthbert, Alpha Living

Utilising her vast NHS expertise, Veronica Cuthbert has made a hugely positive contribution to specialist housing provider Alpha Living’s Scrutiny Panel, being involved in its Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (EDIB) Strategy, focusing on mutual respect. Incorporated across Alpha’s schemes for older people, this has positively impacted over 1,000 residents.

Northern Housing Team of the Year

Believe Housing limited – Income Team

Believe Housing’s Income Team delivers outstanding results through early engagement, high quality support and smart digital innovation. Their approach keeps arrears low, strengthens customers’ financial well-being and ensures income is collected efficiently, protecting the housing association’s financial stability and enabling vital reinvestment into homes, services and communities.

Manningham Housing Association – Income Team

Manningham Housing Association’s Income Team is recognised for its innovative, customer-focused approach to tenancy sustainment. Using data-led insight and in-house welfare expertise, the team secured over £33,000 in financial gains for customers, achieved zero evictions and earned five-star reviews for its income maximisation and homelessness prevention work.

MSV Housing Group – Customer Voice & Wellbeing Team

MSV’s Customer Support and Community Wellbeing Team are a small but mighty team, putting residents at the very heart of MSV. Initiatives led by the team include knife crime prevention in children and young people, customer voice and influence, environmental projects such as fly-tipping and alley-gating, and well-being of residents.

Onward Homes – Customer Accounts and Money Advice Team

Onward Homes’ Customer Accounts and Money Advice Team empowers over 35,000 customers across the North West through innovative, compassionate support. By blending technology with a truly customer-first approach, they’ve boosted income, cut arrears, and delivered lasting improvements to customers’ lives, setting new standards for impact and excellence in housing services.

Salvation Army Homes – Roseberry Housing Team

Roseberry is a 24-hour supported housing service for adults with mental health needs, providing self-contained accommodation and resident-centred support. The team excels in co-production, inclusion and operational excellence, achieving 100% compliance in the 2025 Local Authority review and creating a proud, welcoming community built on dignity and shared ownership.

South Yorkshire Housing Association – Income Management Team

SYHA’s Income Management Team supports customers to manage rent, maximise income and access financial help. Their proactive, empathetic approach achieves sector-leading arrears performance, prevents evictions, and improves financial stability. They collaborate widely, share expertise, champion customers’ rights, and contribute to community wellbeing through fundraising and strong partnership working.

Together Housing Group – Customer Service Centre

“The professional support Together Housing residents receive from their Customer Service Centre is exemplary, matched by their 95% tenant satisfaction score. They even contacted ‘silent residents’ who hadn’t been in-touch which highlights their approach that every resident matters. I can’t praise them enough.” Justin Appleyard, chair of Customer Voice Group

Unity Homes and Enterprise – Employment Services and Enterprise Team

Working alongside housing officers and targeting tenants, this small but dedicated team supports people in hard-to-reach communities to access employment and training or become volunteers. They also help those in work – particularly BME female entrepreneurs – enhance their career prospects, boosting economic wellbeing in local communities and regenerating neighbourhoods.

Calico Homes – Income & Tenancy Sustainment Team

The Income & Tenancy Sustainment Team delivers sector-leading performance through compassionate, trauma-informed support and innovative practice. Working in one of England’s most deprived areas, they build digital confidence for vulnerable residents, strengthen partnerships, maximise income and prevent crisis – creating stability, independence and lasting positive change across their communities.

Castles and Coasts Housing Association – Flood Response Team

Castles & Coasts Housing Association’s Flood Response Team’s priority is the safety and well-being of our residents. The team works around the clock during autumn/winter, taking precautionary action if there is an identified flood risk, safely getting residents out and securing their home before any flooding, and supporting in emergencies.

The Northern Housing Awards 2026

The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, Oxford Street, Manchester M60 7HA

Thursday, 21 May 2026

Book your place or learn more about the awards here

Main image: The winners of the Northern Housing Awards 2025

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Northern Housing Awards 2026: The clocktower is ticking

The shortlist and a new venue has been announced for next month’s Northern Housing Awards, so check out who is competing for a prize

The Northern Housing Awards 2026

The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, Oxford Street, Manchester M60 7HA

Thursday, 21 May 2026

The shortlist for the Northern Housing Awards 2026

Best Repairs and Maintenance Service

Sponsored by TCW

Professional Services Partnership of the Year

Best Digital Transformation

Technology Partner of the Year

Best Resident Safety Initiative

Excellence in Company Culture & Employee Development

Northern Housing Partnership of the Year

Best Retrofit Initiative or Project

Best Resident Support / Wellbeing Initiative

Sponsored by Casey

Best Initiative for Tackling Homelessness

Sponsored by Stanley

Supported/Sheltered Housing Scheme of the Year

Regeneration Scheme of the Year

Best Affordable Housing Development (Up to £10M)

Sponsored by Altair

Best Affordable Housing Development (£10M – £20M)

Sponsored by Altair

Best Affordable Housing Development ( £20M+)

Sponsored by Altair

Best Approach to Decarbonisation

Sponsored by Jewson Partnership Solutions

Home Builder of the Year

Contractor of the Year

SME of the Year

Supply Chain Partner of the Year

Best Use of Technology by a Social Landlord

Sponsored by Hankinson Whittle

Best Customer Experience

Sponsored by The Sovini Group

Landlord of the Year

Sponsored by Seddon

Tenant of the Year

Sponsored by Fortem

Northern Housing Team of the Year

Sponsored by RE:GEN North West

The Northern Housing Awards 2026

The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, Oxford Street, Manchester M60 7HA

Thursday, 21 May 2026

Read more about the shortlisted contenders

Best Repairs and Maintenance Service

Professional Services Partnership of the Year

Best Digital Transformation

Technology Partner of the Year

Best Resident Safety Initiative

Excellence in Company Culture & Employee Development

Northern Housing Partnership of the Year

Best Retrofit Initiative or Project

Best Resident Support / Wellbeing Initiative

Best Initiative for Tackling Homelessness

Supported/Sheltered Housing Scheme of the Year

Regeneration Scheme of the Year

Best Affordable Housing Development (Up to £10M)

Best Affordable Housing Development (£10M – £20M)

Best Affordable Housing Development ( £20M+)

Best Approach to Decarbonisation

Home Builder of the Year

Contractor of the Year

SME of the Year

Supply-Chain Partner of the Year

Best Use of Technology by a Social Landlord

Best Customer Experience

Landlord of the Year

Tenant of the Year

Northern Housing Team of the Year

The Northern Housing Awards 2026

The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, Oxford Street, Manchester M60 7HA

Thursday, 21 May 2026

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