Castles & Coasts Housing Association has been recognised at the prestigious Northern Housing Awards, with its Flood Response Team receiving a ‘Highly Commended’ accolade in the Housing team of the year category.
The recognition celebrates the team’s exceptional commitment to protecting residents and communities during flood emergencies and severe weather events across the region.
Made up of colleagues from across the organisation, the Flood Response Team works around the clock during autumn and winter months to monitor weather conditions, river levels, and flood alerts. Their proactive approach helps ensure residents are supported and protected before flooding occurs wherever possible.
The judges recognised the team’s resident-first approach, innovation, and outstanding cross-department collaboration, particularly during significant flood threats in recent years.
In November 2025, the team successfully coordinated the evacuation of residents in Cockermouth ahead of forecast flooding, including vulnerable residents living at Victoria Court independent living scheme. Residents were safely relocated before river levels peaked, while colleagues installed flood defences to protect homes and properties.
The award also recognised the team’s rapid response during Storm Debi in late 2023, when unexpected flooding affected homes in the Lower Eden Valley. Working alongside emergency services, the Flood Response Team coordinated accommodation, installed safety measures, supported residents, and carried out recovery work to minimise disruption and damage.
Marie Hardeman, CCHA’s Executive Director of Customers and Communities said:
“The safety and wellbeing of our residents will always be our priority, and this award is testament to the proactive care and collaboration that goes into supporting communities during flood risks and emergencies.
“We are incredibly proud that our Flood Response Team has been highly commended at the Northern Housing Awards. This recognition reflects the dedication, compassion and professionalism shown by colleagues across the organisation whenever residents face difficult and often frightening situations.”
Following the November 2025 evacuations, family members of one resident praised the team for their support, describing the response as “swift and professional” and commending colleagues for the kindness and care shown to residents throughout the evacuation process.
The Flood Response Team’s work includes maintaining personal flood plans for residents in high-risk areas, installing flood mitigation measures such as flood doors and non-return valves, and taking preventative action to ensure residents can remain safe during severe weather incidents.
Whilst the highest risk period of autumn and winter have now passed, the team are always ready to act if there’s a risk of flooding.