Sarah Gough, Head of Operations in Yorkshire and Humberside, has been named Inspirational Colleague of the Year at the Housing Heroes Awards 2025.
The Housing Heroes Awards honour exceptional individuals across the housing sector who are making a real and lasting difference. Sarah stood out for her outstanding leadership, her commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals, and the inclusive, positive culture she cultivates within her team.
Colleagues consistently describe Sarah as approachable, supportive and genuinely invested in others’ development. She prioritises listening, open dialogue, and empowering her team to grow and succeed.
As one colleague shared in the nomination:
A ‘manager’ yes, but the word fails to encompass her characteristics and does not incorporate her motivation, continued ability to empower her team or her sense of passion and purpose to deliver the shared vision for our organisation.
The judges praised Sarah as:
An inspirational leader who goes above and beyond to cultivate a family of employees and service users. She creates an inclusive and nurturing environment for all her colleagues.
Following the ceremony, Ray Blundell, Managing Director, said:
What I’ve been most impressed with throughout the year is Sarah’s people management and leadership skills. She leads a team who often deal with traumatic and sensitive issues – and she always takes the time to talk, support and guide her staff. Her award is well deserved and she is exactly as it says – an inspirational colleague to us all.
