Inspirational Washington woman wins national award for helping others in the community

Brenda Naisby, from Glebe, Washington, was named “Tenant of the Year” at the national Tpas (Tenants Participation Advisory Service) Awards, for the influential role she has played in helping other residents in Sunderland.

Working alongside her landlord, Brenda has played a huge role in her local community for more than five years, repaying the housing association which supported her and provided her with a safe home.

Starting with a lunch club, Brenda with Gentoo employees prepared home cooked meals in the local community centre for residents who might feel isolated. She then volunteered as part of the group’s befriending service, offering a vital lifeline to the lonely.

More recently Brenda became chair of Gentoo’s Local Community Engagement Forum, which comprises local tenants and residents. The forum meets to consider local issues and suggest areas where attention could be focused and services improved.

Also an avid supporter of continued learning, she has assisted a number of university undergraduates with their studies around domestic abuse.

A delighted Brenda said: “I’m truly honoured to have received Tpas’ Tenant of the Year Award.

“I will be always be thankful to Gentoo for their support and volunteering is my way of giving something back to them and my community. This award is for us all.”

Nigel Wilson, chief executive officer at Gentoo said: “I’d like to congratulate Brenda on what is an extremely well deserved award.

“The contribution and knowledge she has shared with Gentoo over the last five years has been invaluable in influencing the services we provide to our tenants.”

Tpas are tenant engagement experts who champion tenant involvement in social housing across England. Their annual awards recognise and celebrate the role residents play in their communities across the country.

Chief executive Jenny Osbourne said: “This is such a special award and it’s right that it has been awarded to such a special person.

"Brenda wowed the judges with her incredible energy, resilience and commitment to her neighbours and her community.”

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