The STAR in the Community Awards held its 6th celebration at the Atrium in Spitalfields on Thursday, 31st January.
The bi-annual ceremony recognises the positive impact Tower Hamlet residents make to their neighbours through their tireless and voluntary actions.
Including THCH, a total of 10 housing associations worked in partnership to organise the awards which demonstrated how much we ‘value and celebrate’ the contribution many of local residents make to the communities in which they live.
The 10 partner Housing Associations were:
• Clarion
• Eastend Homes
• Gateway HA
• One Housing Group
• Poplar HARCA
• Providence Row HA
• Spitalfields HA
• Swan HA
• THCH
• Tower Hamlets Homes
On the night, an independent panel of judges chose the 15 Award winners, including 10 nominees across the board picking up the win for Inspirational Resident.
THCH’s Inspirational Resident of the Year was Neil Eustace, who won thanks to his tireless work with Neighbours in Poplar where he regularly helped older residents, or may have been isolated in their own homes with everyday chores such as shopping and gardening as well as helping organise day-trips.
The ceremony was hosted by Alison Inman, former President of the Chartered Institute of Housing, and was attended by 175 guests, including the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Sirajul Islam, who presented the awards to the winners.
Alison Inman said: “It’s an inspirational evening to be amongst so many people who tirelessly volunteer their time to help and empower their communities.
“Their work undoubtedly improves both the communities and the environments in which they live. Events such as this are important as they celebrate the, often overlooked, value of social housing communities.
She added: “These communities are important and so much good happens because of the selfless work of many individuals, some of whom we honoured tonight. There’s lots we can learn about the positive power of community from tonight’s winners.”
On the awards, Deputy Mayor Cllr. Islam added: “It is a pleasure to celebrate the incredible achievements of Tower Hamlets residents.
“I would like to congratulate all of the nominees, finalists and winners who have been recognised tonight, and express my personal appreciation for your community spirit.”