Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) is celebrating after its ‘Your Voice’ tenants scrutiny group scooped the Most Inspiring Scrutiny Newcomer Award at the Tenants Information Service (TIS) annual awards event.

There were nine award categories on the night and finalists were selected from a long list of applicants by an independent judging panel that consisted of representatives from local authorities, registered social landlords and the Scottish Government.

Hosted by TV and radio presenter, Cat Harvey, the awards recognise and honour groups who are leading the way and making a difference within the Scottish social housing sector.

Jennie Niven, a member of the Your Voice Group who lives on the island of Tiree, said: “We are a group of ordinary ACHA tenants putting the services ACHA deliver under the spotlight and changing them for the better. The award was totally unexpected and we are delighted that our work has been recognised at this level.”

Bobby Beggs, another member of the group from Cardross, added: “The competition was high and we are delighted to have won. As tenants we have a voice that is heard by our landlord, who have made changes to the way services are delivered based on our recommendations.”

Yvonne Angus, ACHA’s regional manager, said: “Customers are at the heart of everything we do. The Your Voice group embraces this commitment and enables real scrutiny and accountability of our organisation and its services. This award recognises excellence in scrutiny practice that others can learn from. We are delighted that the group’s hard work and commitment to improve services for ACHA tenants has been recognised at this level.”