Over the past 10 years, the awards have showcased the inspiring work of individuals and organisations that have made exemplary contributions to the field of private sector empty homes work in Scotland.

The council’s Empty Homes Service Working Group received the ‘Outstanding Empty Homes Service’ award for the exceptional partnership working that uses a joined-up approach to target empty homes in the city.

The group’s success is being able to consistently respond to changes in demand for housing and identify any other associated risks which impact on its delivery.

Councillor Sandra Macdonald, Aberdeen City Council’s housing spokesperson, said: “It is testament to outstanding partnership working that has led to our Empty Homes Service Working Group receiving this national recognition and award.

“The working group’s members employ best practices and ideas which suit Aberdeen’s needs. They also support the use of technology and a problem-solving approach to help foster self-service and give empty home owners the options to decide on the best use of their properties. This in turn allows for appropriate returns and contributes positively to the housing supply needs of the city.”

Shaheena Din, national project manager for the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership, added: “I am delighted for all of this year’s awards winners. In difficult circumstances, they have all shown an incredible willingness to go above and beyond to help bring empty homes back in to use. The COVID-19 pandemic shows how important it is going to be in coming years to continue that hard work and we look forward to seeing what everyone involved in bringing empty homes back in to use will achieve in the next 12 months.”

The working group members recognise that the private sector has an important role to play in the city’s housing needs and work to share relevant information and take action that is of benefit to the Empty Homes service objectives.

The Empty Homes Service partnership working group comprises of: Empty Homes Officer; Housing Strategy team; Council Tax Manager & team leaders; Housing Access Service Manager & team leaders; ACC Finance Partner; Private Sector Housing Manager; Senior Energy Officer; Legal Team leaders & Solicitors; Environmental Health Manager; Senior Planners; Building Standards Manager and Partnership Officers from SEHP.

The 10th Scottish Empty Homes awards were sponsored by Fraser & Fraser Genealogists and International Probate Researchers.