The council’s Ukrainian Resettlement Team picked up Housing Team of the Year, while Connall Smith, a Quantity Surveyor Graduate Apprentice, was awarded Apprentice of the Year. 

The CIH Scotland Housing Awards, which were held in Glasgow, recognise innovative housing teams and professionals who make a difference in their local communities.  

Housing convener, Councillor Michael McPake, said: “I am absolutely delighted for our housing service and its staff who demonstrate innovation, dedication and a real commitment to delivering first class services for people living in their local communities. Being commended and recognised by industry experts is always pleasing and provides an opportunity to share good practice. Well done to everyone involved in going above and beyond in their roles.” 

In response to the war in Ukraine, the council established its Ukrainian resettlement team to help resettle families fleeing the conflict. The team drove forward plans to repurpose empty properties that were awaiting demolition and transformed these into homes for around 200 displaced families. Once the refurbishment was complete the project then involved the important work of settling in and supporting the families to remain and integrate into the community.  

The project involved extensive work across housing, social work, education and health services, and resulted in the provision of a safe and supportive environment for those fleeing the conflict, ensuring they have not only a place to live but the opportunity to thrive. The team developed a range of innovative initiatives including employability projects, communication courses, social events and a pilot refugee awareness session which is now being rolled out across schools. 

Congratulations also go to CIH Apprentice of the Year, Connall Smith, who’s entering his third year of a four-year graduate apprenticeship course at Glasgow Caledonian University. Connall is a Quantity Surveyor Graduate Apprentice with our new supply team and in addition to his job attends university. He plays a key role in the team and is hands-on, carrying out site visits, preparing valuations and managing project costs.

He has furthered his learning and professional development by working with young people on projects encouraging them to embark on a career in the construction industry and mentoring a young person on summer placement. Conall has gone above and beyond in his role, particularly through his mentoring of secondary school students, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and community involvement. 

His team leader Kenny Simpson added: “I’m absolutely delighted for Connall. He’s integrated seamlessly into the New Supply Team, becoming a valued member and his continued commitment to his personal development, learning and work exceeds expectations. Connall conducts his work in a way that supports and demonstrates the council’s values of fairness, respect, equality and excellence, making him a very worthy winner of the Apprentice of the Year award.”