Eastlight recognised for putting residents at the heart of decision-making

We're delighted to share that Eastlight has been shortlisted for two national inclusion awards at the Voice At The Table Awards 2026, recognising the work we've done to ensure residents have a genuine voice in shaping our organisation.

The nominations the ‘Better Decisions Through Inclusion Award’ and the ‘Delivering on the Mission with Inclusion Award’ celebrates our commitment to making resident influence a central part of how Eastlight operates, from governance and strategy through to service design and everyday decision-making.

A key part of this journey has been the introduction of our Resident Members Charter and Community Gateway Circle, which have made it easier and more accessible for residents to get involved in ways that suit them.

Whether through local resident groups, consultations, scrutiny reviews, community projects or formal governance roles, residents are helping shape decisions across the organisation. Their insight and lived experience have helped challenge assumptions, identify opportunities for improvement and ensure decisions reflect what matters most to our communities.

Customer Influence Committee Chair, Catherine Turner, nominated for two awards

We're also proud to share that Catherine Turner, Chair of Eastlight's Customer Influence Committee (CIC), Board Member and Eastlight resident, has been shortlisted for two awards: the ‘Inclusive Customer Impact Award’ and the ‘Voice at The Table Award’.

Since becoming Chair of the CIC in 2024, Catherine has championed a simple but powerful belief: the best decisions are made when a wide range of people have the opportunity to contribute. Rather than speaking on behalf of residents, she has focused on creating opportunities for residents to speak for themselves and ensuring those voices are heard and acted upon.

A passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion, Catherine also challenges barriers that can prevent people from getting involved. Drawing on her own lived experience as a blind wheelchair user, she works to ensure participation is accessible to everyone.

The nomination recognises Catherine's dedication, determination and commitment to creating an Eastlight where every resident has the opportunity to influence decisions and make a difference. Her leadership continues to help build a stronger, more accountable and more resident-led organisation.

Lifetime Impact Award honours Hattie Llewelyn-Davies

We’re also proud to be sponsoring the Lifetime Impact Award, named in honour of our late Chair, Hattie Llewelyn-Davies. Hattie won the 'Lifetime Achievement in Inclusion & Business Leadership Award' in 2025 before she sadly passed away in May 2026.

Hattie dedicated her life to championing inclusion, social justice and the power of people to shape the decisions that affect them.

The Lifetime Impact Award celebrates individuals whose commitment, leadership and lasting contribution have created meaningful change for others, reflecting the values that Hattie championed throughout her life. We are honoured to support an award that recognises those who, like Hattie, have made a profound and enduring difference to their communities and the people they serve.

We wish everyone nominated the very best of luck!