Ardenglen in running for UK People Award.

Ardenglen Housing Association, based in Castlemilk, has been honoured with a nomination for the esteemed UK Investor in People Award (IIP). The association is in contention for the prestigious UK Employer of the Year award in the category for organisations with 2-49 employees. Investors in People aims to ‘Make Work Better’ and their awards highlight best practices from businesses across various sectors all over the UK.

David Byfield, the chief executive of Ardenglen, expressed his delight at being recognised for such a distinguished award, stating, “For a small organisation like ours to be considered for a national award is a testament to the dedication of all our employees in enhancing the way we operate. Over the past couple of years, we have delved into the organisational culture of the association, recognising that improving our colleagues’ behaviours is crucial in elevating the housing, neighbourhood, and community services we deliver to the people of south Glasgow.”

With a modest team of 20 individuals overseeing approximately a thousand homes in the area, Ardenglen has placed a strong emphasis on staff development and well-being. They have implemented a new appraisal system that includes monthly check-ins between managers and employees to nurture relationships within the organisation while providing enhanced learning and development opportunities.

David elaborated on Ardenglen’s focus on staff well-being, stating, “After consulting with our colleagues, we have devised a new Health and Wellbeing Strategy that is currently being implemented. This initiative encompasses mental health training sessions for all staff members, ongoing mental health support through designated first aiders, and the establishment of a social and well-being group to organise a variety of events throughout the year.”

In addition to these measures, the association has introduced several other minor adjustments to create a more family-friendly work environment for its employees. The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in London on November 14th, where Ardenglen will eagerly await the results.