SARH celebrates BEST achievements of staff and customers

A Stafford-based social landlord has recognised the commitment of its staff over the past 12 months as scores of customers, board members and key stakeholders turned out to support the organisation’s annual general meeting.

As Stafford and Rural Homes (SARH) approaches its 10th birthday, the housing association was placed at number 10 by the Sunday Times in this year’s BEST 100 list of not-for-profit places to work – an achievement reflected in the theme for the meeting.

Once the formal part of the AGM, including the election of the strategic board, was completed departments from across the organisation took to the stage to demonstrate how SARH is BEST for the Borough of Stafford.

Karen Armitage, SARH Chief Executive, explained: “During an Oscars award-style presentation, guests at the meeting were shown videos demonstrating the huge investment SARH makes in Building new homes, protecting the Environment, delivering Social value and offering Training and employment opportunities. Guests were also asked to vote on which one best represented the organisation.

“Over the past year we’ve been responsible for some landmark housing projects that have delivered affordable homes for communities across Stafford and surrounding areas, so it was no surprise that Build won the vote on the night!”

The event also provided the opportunity to reward individual members of staff who contributed to the organisation’s success over the past 12 months and a customer, Daniel Lynch, for his efforts on behalf of the community. Daniel was presented with the SARH Good Neighbour Award after standing up in court as a witness in a case involving anti-social behaviour.

In addition to the Good Neighbour Award, accolades were also presented to a number SARH staff. Keira Morton, SARH Money Advisor was named Ambassador of the Year whilst Sasha Turnbull, now a permanent employee, was named Apprentice of the Year.

Karen added: “This has been a very challenging year, both for housing associations and customers, with the introduction of welfare reforms and ever tightening budgets.

“Just as many of our customers have needed to make less money go even further, we have managed to do more with less and this is down to the dedication of the SARH team.”