A stalwart supporter of Kingdom Housing Association has been recognised for his 40 years voluntary service to the affordable housing provider.

Laurie Naumann is a founding member of Kingdom and first became involved when the Lochgelly Lodging House, with 44 residents, was threatened with closure in 1977.

Laurie’s contribution was recognised at Fife Voluntary Action Awards 2018 when he received the Trustee / Board Member of the Year Award, sponsored by the Fife Society for the Blind.

Laurie Naumann, currently vice-chair of Kingdom, said: “After 40 years and somewhat in excess of 440 meetings, it’s great to be able to review Kingdom’s achievement in building almost 4,000 houses to accommodate people in need - rather more than the original 100 projected by the newly founded Association those decades ago!

“It’s been a privilege to have contributed to this local success story in relieving homelessness and housing need and a great honour and pleasure to have received the award.”

Freya Lees, chair of Kingdom HA, added: “Laurie was a founding member of Kingdom HA in 1979 and has been a dedicated member of the voluntary governing body since then. Laurie’s contribution, his wisdom and considered views are valued by fellow Board members and staff alike. We are delighted that Laurie has been recognised by the FVA.”

Laurie’s first significant volunteering experience was in the early 1960s taking part in and leading International Service work camps in Britain and Sweden.

In addition to Laurie’s 40 years association with Kingdom, he has dedicated time as a volunteer with other organisations. He served as: a board member and former chair of Garvald Edinburgh providing day care services for people with learning disabilities; a Trustee of Dundee Friends Property Trust that manages the Quaker House and a former board member of the Voluntary Action fund and FEAT Enterprises, both which are based in Fife.

Laurie was Director of the Scottish Council for Single Homeless before he retired and held senior committee roles on both the Scottish Refugee Council and the Refugee Survival trust between 1996 and 2017.

In 1998 Laurie was recognised in the New Year Honours and awarded an MBE for services to Homeless People.