Glasgow letting agency wins social enterprise accolade
A Glasgow-based letting agency that reinvests all its profits to help vulnerable tenants has scooped top honours at an awards ceremony for Scotland's social enterprise scene.
Homes for Good, which was founded in March 2013 and manages about 250 properties across the Central Belt and west of Scotland, was named social enterprise of the year at last night’s Social Enterprise Scotland (SES) bash at the Scottish Parliament.
Susan Aktemel, director of the community interest company, the first of its kind north of the Border, said: “I think it’s a real tribute to the hard work and dedication of everyone at Homes for Good.
“We have big ambitions for the future and are looking forward to moving into new premises next year so we can provide even more targeted services to landlords and tenants, including the creation of a dedicated tenant information and advice hub.”
Meanwhile, the accolade of “social enterprise champion” was one by Claire Carpenter, founder and managing director of Edinburgh shared office and venue hire outfit The Melting Pot.
Freedom Bakery, which teaches artisan baking skills to prisoners at HMP Low Moss in Bishopbriggs, was named the “one to watch” in the awards, while the Social Enterprise Academy took home the social impact title.
Social Investment Scotland, the lender to the third sector, won the “Buy Social” market builder award, and Edinburgh Student Arts Festival picked up a title for inspiring youth enterprise.
SES chief executive Fraser Kelly said: “Social enterprise is about creating a fairer, more sustainable economy and a society that benefits everyone.
“The Social Enterprise Awards Scotland 2016 provide a unique opportunity for social enterprises to gain the public recognition they so rightly deserve. We’re always impressed by the very high standard and variety of applications. Congratulations to our winners and a big thank you to everyone who entered or was shortlisted.”