Audit Commission

Excellent housing organisations were recognised in awards sponsored by the Audit Commission yesterday (17 June 2009). Every year the Audit Commission recognises the achievements of housing organisations that obtained the highest judgement possible in an inspection during the previous year.

The Housing Excellence Awards are held to coincide with the Chartered Institute of Housing's annual conference, this year in Harrogate. The winning three star and excellent organisations have all demonstrated that, in the areas inspected, they provide services where strengths significantly outweigh any weaknesses. Only 4 per cent of housing inspections since 2000 have achieved this score.

This year the Awards were presented by Housing Minister John Healey, who said: 'These awards are well-earned. They are testament to the practical housing help these organisations offer day in day out, that makes such a difference to people's lives. A key priority for me as Housing Minister is to ensure committed professionals like these get the support they need to continue doing a great job.'

The winning organisations were:

• Evesham and Pershore Housing Association
• Homes for Islington
• Poole Housing Partnership
• Sandwell Homes
• Northwards Housing
• Gateshead Housing Company
• Berneslai Homes

Audit Commission Chief Executive Steve Bundred said: 'The organisations that are receiving their awards today are delivering excellent housing services to their tenants and residents. They make a real difference to the lives of people that live in their communities. They will no doubt be helping to contribute to successful outcomes from the Comprehensive Area Assessment process that the Commission and other Inspectorates are conducting this year.'

Notes to editors

1. The Audit Commission is an independent watchdog, driving economy, efficiency and effectiveness in local public services to deliver better outcomes for everyone.
2. Our work across local government, health, housing, community safety and fire and rescue services means that we have a unique perspective. We promote value for money for taxpayers, auditing the £200 billion spent by 11,000 local public bodies.
3. As a force for improvement, we work in partnership to assess local public services and make practical recommendations for promoting a better quality of life for local people.