We’re delighted to share that our collaboration with housing associations across the North has been shortlisted for Northern Housing Partnership of the Year at the Northern Housing Awards 2026.
This recognition celebrates the impact of our Raising Aspirations Programme, which opens up the world of work to primary school pupils. The programme shows children what careers are out there, the skills they’ll need, and how they can leave a positive footprint wherever they go in life. It’s also about building their self-belief and resilience, helping them recognise their qualities and how these could be used in the workplace.
The partnership in numbers
Thanks to the commitment of our Northern partners, this work is already transforming opportunities for children. Our application recognised:
- 100+ primary schools supported
- 4,000+ children inspired every year
- 1,200+ hours of careers-related learning delivered annually
- 250+ volunteers opening up the world of work
- £828,893 in annual social value generated for communities
These numbers tell a powerful story, but the most important insights come directly from the children themselves.
As one pupil told us: “It gives you a heads up, and it doesn’t just drop you in the deep end when you leave school.”
Their voices guide everything we do, shaping programmes that build confidence, broaden horizons and strengthen the foundations for future success.
Laying the foundations for Discover Housing
At the heart of this partnership is a shared ambition to inspire the next generation of housing professionals. This mission is now accelerating through our new national campaign, backed by the Chartered Institute of Housing and National Housing Federation, Discover Housing.
This campaign aims to connect 100 housing associations with 100 primary schools to inspire 10,000 children.
Together, we will help young people discover the meaningful, community shaping careers available in the housing sector, and help build a future workforce that truly reflects the communities it serves.
Guided by children’s voices
From the very beginning, this partnership has been shaped by the lived experiences, ideas and aspirations of children. Their feedback has driven the development of online career conversations, inspired financial wellbeing learning, and even influenced how new housing developments are named. Their message is clear: “I can be what I want to be. The future is ours to see.”
Being shortlisted for this award is a celebration of their message, and the belief that every child deserves the chance to see their potential. We’re proud of how far this partnership has come, and even more excited about where it will take us next.
Thank you and congratulations to all our partners
This achievement belongs to every organisation that has invested time, energy and belief into this shared mission.
Together, these organisations are proving what’s possible when housing and education come together with a shared purpose.
If your organisation would be interested in joining our Discover Housing Campaign you can find out more here.