Betty Simpson was awarded the Lifetime Achievement in Tenant Participation last week at the Tenants Information Service (TIS) National Excellence awards for her hard-work and commitment to bringing about positive change to Aberdeen’s housing service.  

Betty said: “I’ve enjoyed being a part of tenant participation and holding the Council to account. I encourage everyone to get involved and work with others to improve services for tenants.” 

Betty has been involved with tenant participation for over 25 years, and during this time she has worked alongside the council to bring about positive changes for council tenants, as well as travelling throughout Scotland to promote tenant participation. 

Convener of Communities, Housing and Public Protection, Councillor Miranda Radley, added: “It is fantastic to see Betty’s hard work and dedication to improving the lives of all our tenants be recognised.  

“Betty is an inspiration to us all, and I hope that this encourages more tenants to take an active role with the housing service and help make a positive impact in their community.” 

Betty’s career in tenant participation has seen her involved in all areas of tenant and community engagement, including becoming a member of her local Community Council.  

This is the first time that the Lifetime Achievement award has been presented, which recognises an extraordinary tenant who has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to effecting positive change across the Scottish social housing sector during their lifetime. 

The TIS National Excellence Awards recognise and celebrate housing organisations, staff, volunteers, tenants, residents and community groups from across Scotland for their contributions in social housing.