The award involved developing a three-year strategy for protecting the health and wellbeing of EKHA staff, including physical activities, training and development, and awareness raising sessions.

Director Andy Young said the award is really important to the Association.

He added: “Our people are our most important asset, and it is vital that we look after them and help them to look after themselves and each other. The success of Healthy Working Lives has mainly been down to the enthusiasm and hard work of our Corporate Services Assistant, Claire Troup, who developed a three year strategy for protecting the health and well being of EKHA staff.

“But it is also down to the entire staff team participating in the various activities and training and awareness raising sessions that have been arranged, with vigour and in the right spirit. I am particularly pleased at the very positive comments in the report about the focus we placed on improving mental health awareness, not just our own mental health, but also recognising when our tenants and customers may be suffering.

“The Healthy Working Lives assessors also noticed (as have I) that this work has seen actual improvements in the health and well being of staff, which for us, as a responsible and caring employer, is more important than the award itself. Well done to all concerned!”