National award for housing and health teams

The two teams have been recognised for their excellent joint work to improve the health and housing conditions of some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

The award for Innovative Service Delivery with Health and Social Care from Foundations, the national coordinating body for Home Improvement Agencies, was presented to officers by Baroness Kay Andrews at a ceremony at the House of Lords. 

Hosting the award ceremony, Baroness Andrews stressed the importance of home improvement agencies.

She said: "Home improvement agencies remain a lifeline to thousands of older and vulnerable people, giving them the practical help they need to stay in their homes.

"At a time when we face considerable challenges in responding to an ageing population home improvement agencies can help to achieve creative and innovative solutions driven by the needs of their clients."

Sandwell beat off competition from over 60 entrants to scoop the award for the development of a range of measures aimed at helping older and vulnerable people to remain living independently within their own home.

Councillor Simon Hackett, cabinet member for housing said: "I am delighted that the excellent joint working of the housing and health teams has been recognised with this award.

"Sandwell leads the way in delivering services, such as housing improvements that help to reduce expensive hospital bills by preventing people becoming ill in the first place."

Councillor Paul Moore, cabinet member for health and commissioning, added: "If a community is to be successful it is vital that these key agencies work extremely well and above all, in partnership.

"By winning this coveted award it is extremely pleasing to see that this is exactly what is happening in Sandwell.

"It is even more pleasing to see that our efforts are recognised nationally and to win this award  we had to beat off strong competition from 60 other entrants. I would personally like to thank everyone in the team for their superb efforts."

Sandwell Home Improvement Agency provides a range of services to assist vulnerable and low income households carry out essential repairs, such as heating and insulation, to ensure they are able to continue living independently at home. The Agency can be contacted on 0121 569 5232.