Praise for dedicatedcommunity worker

The dedicated community worker was runner -up n the ‘Making a Difference’ category of the Chartered Institute of Housing Northern Ireland Awards, which took place in the Ulster Museum in Belfast as part of the annual Chartered Institute of Housing’s President’s dinner.

Now in it’s third year, the well-established event is recognised as one of the prestigious ways to recognise and encourage high standards and professionalism within the housing sector. In addition, it is an opportunity for those working within the sector to network and promote the work they do within the sector. The black tie affair included a drinks reception, four-course dinner and the presentation ceremony.

She was nominated by the Housing Executive, and commenting on the nomination, Housing Executive District Manager in the Waterside Avril McAllister said: “We were delighted to nominate Linda for this award for all her work and dedication as a community worker with Caw/Nelson Drive Action Group.”

“Through her drive and determination Linda has established the Group as one of the most progressive and successful in the Waterside. She has attracted substantial funding for the betterment of the estate and along with her committee, organises events which attract all generations and maintain a good community spirit which is difficult in such a large area,” she said.

Ms McAllister added: “Linda also provides support to us in the District Office in the delivery of a comprehensive housing service both locally and through the Central Housing Community Network.”

Thanking the Housing Executive for it’s vote of confidence in her, Linda said she was “really pleased” that there were people who thought highly enough about her work in the community that they were prepared to nominate her.

“The fact I was nominated in the first place means as much to me as winning, because it shows to me that people recognise the importance of the work that is done through the Smart parents Programme, which is really nice to know,” she said.