One of Bromsgrove District Housing Trust’s (bdht) most respected and admired tenants, Edwina Evans, has been nominated for the Tenant Lifetime Contribution Award at the 2020 Housing Heroes Awards.

Edwina, who first became a tenant in 1991 and has been a resident in her current property for the last 27 years, has held a number of positions with bdht’s shadow board and board of directors, including time spent as vice chairperson. She was also chair of the residents’ scrutiny panel and has worked with a number of smaller focus groups dedicated to improving tenant experiences in specific areas. Edwina was also a member of the selection committee involved in appointing the first chief executive of bdht, when it became independent of the council in 2004.

Despite suffering from both fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, and losing her hearing overnight in 2013, Edwina has aimed to balance out her commitments and energy levels so she can always attend meetings and make a difference to the community she loves. She has been, and continues to be, a real asset with a balanced yet passionate voice, who focuses on the best interests of bdht’s tenants, particularly those with disabilities.

Mark Robertson, chief executive at bdht, said: “I have known Edwina for more than 15 years and have seen first-hand her willingness to give up her own time for the benefit of residents in Bromsgrove. Whether in her capacity as a local authority advisor, board member or resident scrutiny member, Edwina has always acted with a clear and passionate aim which is that all tenants deserve a consistently excellent service from their Landlord.

“For some time now, she has had a number of health conditions, but this has not deterred her from making a strong contribution within the organisation, including championing the need to recognise tenants as individuals with specific circumstances, whether it be due to age, ill-health, disability, family or other circumstances.

“Edwina has stepped down from her position as chair at bdht this month and whilst she will be sorely missed, she has made sure that other tenants are ready to take up her mantle in order to keep customer satisfaction at the top of the bdht agenda.”

The Housing Heroes Awards recognises the teams and individuals whose work improves the lives of the people when the sector most needs leadership, support and collaboration. Due to Covid-19, this year’s awards will be a virtual experience and is free to attend and can be enjoyed from home on Thursday 10th September.

bdht is a registered provider of social housing, serving the district of Bromsgrove and surrounding areas. The not-for-profit organisation aims to improve the communities in which it is based, working closely with partners, such as the council, police and residents, to provide secure and comfortable accommodation, and safe and happy neighbourhoods. While also undertaking a wide range of activities under contract to others including homelessness, supporting people, extra care and general estate management. For more information, visit www.bdht.co.uk

< back