‘Inspirational’ Paul shortlisted for UK Housing Award

Paul Key, an employee of Sheffield Homes, who died suddenly last year, has been shortlisted in the UK Housing Awards, in the ‘Most Inspirational Colleague’ category. The awards which are entered by hundreds or organisations across the country, are the UK’s most prestigious housing accolade.

 

Paul, worked for Sheffield Homes for a number of years based initially in an area housing office and then in the Community Engagement team. Paul was dedicated to working with Tenants and Resident Associations (TARA) to increase opportunities for customers to engage with Sheffield Homes and to provide them with support, advice and friendship. Paul was nominated for the award by colleagues at Sheffield Homes and friends from the tenant’s movement.

 

Paul’s wife Sam and their two children, together with colleagues from Sheffield Homes and local TARA representatives, will be travelling to London for the awards ceremony on 8th November at the Hilton Hotel.

 

Outside of work Paul was also very active within his community and was a member of the Board of Governors of a local school.

 

Sheffield Homes recently launched a series of special awards in memory of Paul Key, whose aim is to recognise people in the community that go the extra mile to help others.

 

Liz Sayles, Head of Community Engagement at Sheffield Homes says “Paul is missed greatly and we are delighted that he has been shortlisted for this award, which not only recognises his dedication and commitment to the tenants movement within Sheffield, but also that he was a fantastic colleague to work with.”

 

Norma Ashmore, TARA representative says “Paul’s total commitment to his job and the people he supported earned him trust and respect as nothing was too much trouble for him. If any TARA had a problem he dealt with them quickly fairly and efficiently, he soon became not just a housing officer but a friend to us all and has been sorely missed.”

 

The winners of the UK Housing Awards, which are organised by the Chartered Institute of Housing and Inside Housing magazine, will be announced at an award ceremony in London in November. Sheffield Homes is competing against Liverpool Housing Trust, Calico Housing, Irwell Valley Housing Association and Wales and West Housing Association in the Most Inspirational Colleague category.