A DEDICATED housing professional has received a prestigious award in recognition for ‘going the extra mile’ to improve neighbourhoods in Amber Valley.
Amber Valley Housing employee Harriet Phillipson was awarded a Divisional Commanders Commendation by Derbyshire Constabulary for her hard work towards ‘Days of Action’ in Ripley and Somercotes, which help improve communities.
As community development assistant for the social housing provider, Harriet has worked closely with the police, fire service and other community partners to develop the Days of Action.
By working in partnership, Harriet has played a key role in the events, which involve community litter picks and clean-ups as well as allowing residents to ask any questions they may have to the community partners.
Harriet was handed the award at a ceremony at Derbyshire Constabulary headquarters at Ripley.
Derbyshire Police divisional commander chief superintendent Garry Sherwood said: "Harriet was commended for her commitment and dedication to deliver a community based initiative to improve public confidence and safety in the Amber Valley area. Her effort and enthusiasm ensured the "Days Of Action" were a success"
Graham Jarrett, Amber Valley Housing’s anti-social behaviour co-ordinator, who nominated Harriet for the award, said: “I have no hesitation in saying that Harriet played a pivotal role in the success of both Days of Action doing over and above her normal duties. She is a credit to Amber Valley Housing and I don’t know what I would have done without her.”
Harriet added: “I was really surprised to get the award and it makes all the hard work that we put into organising the events very worthwhile.
“The Days of Action were a great success because they were carried out with a multi agency approach. The partnership working has built really good relations with the police and fire service, which has led to them joining us for our Walkabout Wednesdays.”
