NPH’s Chair of the Board Aileen Evans has been awarded an OBE for her outstanding contribution to social housing throughout her long career. Aileen’s award has just been announced in the King’s Birthday Honours List.

The King awards honours such as the OBE to recognise an individual’s significant achievements and service to the country. The awards are handed out twice a year in the UK – once at New Year, and once on the King’s official birthday.

Aileen has worked in social housing for over thirty years and her career has included being Past President of the Chartered Institute of Housing and Chief Executive of Grand Union Housing Group. She is passionate about social housing and has represented the industry at the very highest level. One of Aileen’s career highlights has been leading the Shine a Light mental health campaign that was high profile across the industry and raised funds for Mind – it opened up the conversation about the vital role of mental health support for social housing professionals.

This award is very well deserved and we are honoured that Aileen Evans, OBE is the Chair of our Board.

Aileen said of the award:

“I was overwhelmed when I received a letter telling me I had been nominated for this honour. I was genuinely surprised, deeply grateful and, to be honest, it hasn’t properly sunk in yet!

I have been privileged to work in housing for many, many years and I want to pay tribute to everyone person in the sector who works hard to make sure that everyone has a place to call home. This means homes that are safe, healthy and genuinely affordable.”

Winston Williams, NPH Executive Director of Operations and Deputy CEO, said about the honour:

“I am delighted to congratulate our Chair, Aileen Evans, on being awarded an OBE for services to housing.

This prestigious honour is a fitting recognition of her outstanding contribution to the housing sector and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of residents and communities. Throughout her distinguished career, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, championing the importance of safe, secure and affordable homes, whilst advocating for the vital role housing plays in creating thriving communities.

Those of us who have had the privilege of working with Aileen have seen first-hand her passion, integrity and dedication to public service. As Chair of Northamptonshire Partnership Homes, her leadership, insight and commitment have been invaluable in supporting our work on behalf of West Northamptonshire Council and the residents we serve.

This national recognition is richly deserved and reflects the significant and lasting impact she has made across the housing sector. On behalf of myself, as Executive Director of Operations and Deputy Chief Executive, I offer my sincere congratulations and very best wishes on this remarkable achievement.”