Share celebrates 40 years at Annual Conference and Awards
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John Williams, head of asset management of Cassiltoun Housing Association, celebrates the Excellence in Property Management award (Image: copyright Open Aye)
Scotland’s housing sector came together for a celebration like no other last week as the first-ever Share Awards took place at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow.
The event on April 24th also marked a special milestone as Share celebrates its 40th anniversary year.
(Image: copyright Open Aye)
Conference delegates were engaged with topics on governance, regulation, and a particularly moving and inspiring experience from the final speaker. There were also a variety of workshops, and networking opportunities. The evening guests filled the ballroom for a sold-out awards ceremony, which included a drinks reception, dinner, and entertainment.
Hosted by STV’s Emma Cameron, with a warm introduction from Allan Scott, chair of Share, the evening recognised some of the most passionate and dedicated individuals and teams in the housing sector.
Customer Service Star winners Cairn Housing Association (Image: copyright Open Aye)
Among the winners was Cairn Housing Association, which took home the Customer Service Star Award.
The award recognises the exceptional efforts of Cairn’s Customer Services and Welfare Benefits teams, who have gone above and beyond to support tenants across Scotland. From securing vital funding for fuel support and emergency aid, to providing expert welfare benefits advice and supporting tenants in financial crisis, the teams’ work has made a lasting impact in communities across Scotland.
The team from Cassiltoun Housing Association (Image: copyright Open Aye)
Audrey Simpson, chief executive of Cairn, said: “I’m so proud of the team for winning the Customer Service Star Award. This is fantastic recognition of the passion and professionalism they bring to their roles every day.
“At a time when so many of our tenants are facing financial challenges, it’s more important than ever that we’re there to provide support that goes beyond bricks and mortar. I’m delighted to see the hard work of our staff acknowledged at a national level.”
The Barrhead Housing team celebrate the Community Impact Award (Image: copyright Open Aye)
A groundbreaking community-support initiative run by Barrhead Housing also gained recognition on the night.
The housing association’s Brighter Futures Barrhead Project picked up the Community Impact Award at the inaugural event.
Rising Star winner Josh Garner (front) of Cloch Housing Association (Image: copyright Open Aye)
The Brighter Futures programme unites no fewer than 11 East Renfrewshire organisations “making a real and lasting difference in the lives of local people”.
Barrhead Housing chair John Hamilton said: “This is a truly outstanding achievement, and I congratulate everyone involved in this amazing initiative.”
Megan Reynolds of Fyne Homes was named Learner of the Year (Image: copyright Open Aye)
Barrhead Housing chief executive Lorna Wilson said Brighter Futures - led by Community Investment Manager Bryan Dando - was a wonderful example of inspirational partnership working.
“To come out on top against some of the best-resourced organisations in the country is quite remarkable,” she added. “It is a fantastic team effort that combines the commitment and passion of professionals and volunteers alike.”
Maureen McDonald (left), who was recognised for her Outstanding Contribution to Housing, with Share's Olwyn Gaffney (Image: copyright Open Aye)
The 2025 award winners were:
- Outstanding Contribution to Housing (Volunteer): Maureen McDonald, Elderpark Housing Association
- Learner of the Year: Megan Reynolds, Fyne Homes
- Community Impact Award: Barrhead Housing Association
- Rising Star Award: Joshua Garner, Cloch Housing Association
- Excellence in Property Management: Cassiltoun Housing Association
- Customer Service Star: Cairn Housing Association
- Housing Hero: Lifetime Achievement: Anna Stuart MBE, Cassiltoun Housing Association
Olwyn Gaffney received a Special Recognition Award, presented by Share CEO Daryl McIntosh (Image: copyright Open Aye)
In addition to the main awards, a special recognition was presented to Olwyn Gaffney in honour of her remarkable 25 years of service to Share.
Host Emma Cameron paid tribute, saying: “Share’s success and longevity over the past four decades simply wouldn’t have been possible without the devotion, commitment, and passion of one extraordinary woman. Olwyn’s energy, warmth, and unwavering dedication have left a lasting impact on this organisation, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate her tonight.”
Anna Stuart MBE of Cassiltoun Housing Association with her Housing Hero Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by SHN editor Kieran Findlay (Image: copyright Open Aye)
The event raised over £1,600 for Share’s charity partner, Beatson Cancer Charity, which supports people affected by cancer across Scotland.
As Share marks 40 years of supporting the housing sector through training, qualifications, and events, it credits its success to the dedication of past and present directors, long-serving chairs, and loyal members, whose support has shaped its services and the annual conference.
Share staff (Image: copyright Open Aye)
The organisation also extended its sincere thanks to everyone who helped deliver this year’s conference and awards, especially the sponsors: Kingdom Housing Association, ng homes, BTO, and The Property Institute.
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