A housing association has celebrated the unsung heroes living in its communities.

Platform Housing Group recognised these special individuals at its annual Community Heroes Awards, which was held on Wednesday (June 19).

The group first launched the awards programme in 2022.

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A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Community Partnership Award.

This accolade acknowledges an organisation that introduces transformational initiatives within its community.

This year's recipient was Sue Turner, from Worcester, who serves as the family liaison and nurture lead at Cranham Primary School.

Her work establishing a family support unit within the primary school, bundling a variety of services for parents and children under one readily accessible roof, was praised.

Ms Turner said: "I am truly humbled to receive this award.

"I see my role as bridging a gap between the parents and the teachers and can’t stress enough that there is always someone here in my team that can help; nobody should feel alone or isolated or unsure what to do."

“Helping each other makes for a better community and enriches lives; we’ve all experienced some sort of trauma in our lives and I am no exception.

"For me the real reward is seeing the children happy when previously they may have felt as though they had the weight of the world on their shoulders. I would like to thank Platform for its support.”

Marion Duffy, the chief operations officer at the housing group, said: "Sue is amazing; she provides such a great support to both the school and the local community.

"She brings people together in a safe and welcoming space and has truly changed lives."

The award was sponsored by Nationwide Windows and Doors.

Kevin Caveney, director of commercial sales at the company said: "At Nationwide we are very much focussed on community, both the community where we are based and the communities in which we operate. 

"That’s why we are absolutely delighted to be supporting these awards, helping to recognise those everyday heroes that make such a difference."

For more information on the awards and Ms Turner's contributions, visit https://www.youtube.com/@platformhousinggroup543.