Highland-based registered social landlord Albyn Housing Society is celebrating after picking up two awards at the Chartered Institute of Housing’s annual Scottish awards in Edinburgh on November 2.

Housing services assistant, Rhona Matthew, 24, from Holm, Inverness, was named Young Achiever of the Year, with judges commending her for her ambition to succeed and her contribution towards supporting tenants with a range of issues including the transition to Universal Credit and dealing with antisocial behaviour.

Albyn also secured the Housing Team of the Year award for its work to reduce the number of days vacated properties remain without tenants. By improving its processes and setting a target of ‘zero days’, the team has taken the average void period from 23 days to an average of just over nine in just six months. In fact, over the space of the year, almost 40% of vacant properties were re-allocated the same day during the 2017/18 financial year.

Speaking of the team’s success, Calum Macaulay, chief executive at Albyn Housing Society, said: “Over recent years, the pressure on the housing sector to maintain the highest standards of excellence in a climate of welfare reform change, budget cuts and economic uncertainty has been enormous. However, this has helped us focus our minds on being more innovative and customer-centric.

“Our efforts have certainly paid off – to be recognised in two categories at the CIH’s Scottish awards is an incredible achievement and I’d like to extend my congratulations to every member of the team. I’d also like to give a special mention to Rhona, who has impressed all of us with her excellent work ethic and ability to think outside the box since she joined us in 2016.”