We have been shortlisted for the Best Use of an EEM Community Donation Award, acknowledging the work of our Tenancy Skills team to tackle data poverty which can prevent our customers from accessing essential services like GP appointments.
Last year, we received a donation of £3,811 from Efficiency East Midlands Limited (EEM) which is being used by our Tenancy Skills team to buy mobile phone handsets and tariffs for our customers.
Sian Every, our Community Investment and Social Value lead said “We are delighted to have been recognised for our work to tackle data poverty in the Building Communities Awards.
“Access to the internet and digital services has become an essential, not a luxury.
“Some customers tell us they can’t afford a phone handset, Wi-Fi or data package and struggle to access vital online services. The funding enables us to help at least 65 of our customers who are at risk of digital exclusion.”
Customers at particular risk of data poverty and being digitally excluded include those on low incomes, older people and ex-offenders.
The Building Communities Awards are hosted by EEM, a not-for-profit procurement company delivering value for money for the public sector and will be held on Friday 20 March.
Our entry to the Building Communities Awards 2026 faces stiff competition from Newark and Sherwood District Council, South Derbyshire District Council, United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory and fellow social landlord Acis Group.
The award submissions are evaluated by a panel of independent judges with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the housing and construction industry.
The winners will be announced on Friday 20 March 2026 at Derby Arena. Find out more about the Building Community Awards here: Building Communities Awards 2026: Shortlist - News - EEM