The association was recognised in the Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS) Scotland National Good Practice Awards, securing a victory in the keenly-contested “Community Involvement - tenant/community group” category.

The award serves as a powerful endorsement of Muirhouse’s commitment to placing its community at the heart of its operations. The specific category acknowledges “the achievements of a tenant or community-led group or project that has supported other individuals or groups within their community and made a positive impact”.

Muirhouse’s triumph centred on its innovative and inclusive “Come Dine With Us” initiative – a recurring event offering a free meal and companionship to local residents aimed at tackling isolation and loneliness.

Launched in 2022, it instantly resonated with the community and attracts between 15 and 30 people to the weekly get-together in winter with it running fortnightly in the summer.

It has chalked up some impressive outcomes with evaluation showing an increase in the age groups attending ranging from 26-85 plus an impressive 140% increase in how satisfied those attending are with their lives. An increase of 83% was recorded from those attending who felt the things they do in life are “worthwhile”.

Muirhouse chief executive Susan Bell said: “Ensuring we do our bit to tackle loneliness and isolation in our community – especially among those who are single – remains an important part of our work.

“In the face of the cost-of-living challenges, we as a housing association are ideally placed to make a difference and Come Dine With Us tackles this very issue. We remain very grateful for the funding received which helps to support this important initiative.

“This project provides the opportunity to inspire and empower individuals to foster better health, connect with others in the community and feel valued.

“We are thrilled to receive this award, which recognises the dedication and teamwork behind our efforts to support the community.”