South Tyneside charity makes it to shortlist for Affordable Housing Awards 2023

South Tyneside charity Key has been shortlisted as a finalist in the prestigious Affordable Housing Awards 2023, which celebrate excellence across the social housing sector in the UK.

The awards, an evolution of the most comprehensive awards platform in the housing sector – the UK Housing Awards – are about identifying the social landlords, charities and partners who work with their communities to deliver great outcomes for tenants and residents.

Judged by tenants and experts from individual fields, these awards are designed not just to celebrate success, but to help other landlords learn from it and replicate it. 

Key has been recognised in the Resident employment and training category for its outstanding work supporting residents into training and work and the positive, tangible, and lasting impact this has had on the quality of lives of tenants.

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Over the course of 12 months winners will have the opportunity to share their learning in a variety of ways, including webinars, at relevant live events, at round tables and a study tour to promote the best co-designed service in the UK.

The winners will be announced on Friday 17 November, at an awards ceremony at The Point, Manchester hosted by British television presenter June Sarpong OBE.

Ross Allen, Chief Executive Officer at Key, said: “We are delighted to have been shortlisted for another national award, particularly in this category, which recognises our high-quality yet flexible and responsive career planning to meet the needs of individual young people in whichever way is best for their unique circumstances and through the most appropriate learning mode.”

“This encompasses the hard work and dedication of all staff who have encouraged and motivated our young people to take advantage of opportunities in employment and education. 

"Most of all though, it highlights the incredible achievements of Key’s young people who have, against all the odds, managed to succeed in gaining apprenticeships, university placements and employment.”

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In support, Emma Lewell Buck, South Shields MP, added: “Congratulations to Key on their latest awards nomination! Every young person deserves the chance to realise their full potential and go on to live a successful, independent life.

"With their unique understanding of the mix of needs of those they support, Key ensures they pursue the path that’s right for them, so they’re set up for success from the very start.”