A CUMBRIAN housing trust has been awarded 'the highest honour' a voluntary group can receive in the UK, in recognition of the work that the group has done to provide affordable housing in Keswick, and provide a sustainable community for future generations.

Keswick Community Housing Trust has today, November 14, been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service - often referred to as the MBE for volunteer groups.

The prestigious award recognises the Trust’s outstanding commitment to providing affordable housing in Keswick, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable community for future generations.

Founded in 2010 by a dedicated group of volunteers, Keswick Community Housing Trust was established to tackle the area's pressing housing challenges. These include high property prices, with a significant number of homes being used for holiday lets, and low local wages.

Despite these obstacles, the Trust has successfully developed 40 high-quality, eco-friendly homes across four projects, enabling local residents to remain in Keswick and benefit the local economy and community life.

The Trust stands out among the 358 Community Land Trusts in England and Wales. It is one of only four to have completed four or more housing projects and one of twelve recognised as a regulated social housing provider. 

Its unique self-managed operations, including tenant selection and property maintenance, have helped shape national policies and grant funding to support rural, affordable housing within National Parks.

The award will be presented by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Alexander Scott, and includes a certificate signed by HM The King and a trophy. Two volunteers from the Trust will also attend a special garden party at Buckingham Palace in 2025, alongside other award recipients.

Mr Scott said: “The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest accolade for any voluntary organisation, and I am thrilled that Keswick Community Housing Trust has achieved this exceptional national recognition. I warmly congratulate them on their outstanding contribution to the community.

“I am also immensely grateful to the many other voluntary groups across Cumbria doing excellent, innovative work to enhance the lives and experiences of local communities.

"I hope this recognition will inspire more nominations for next year’s awards.”

Keswick Community Housing Trust chair Bill Bewley added: “This award is fantastic recognition for the many volunteers, past and present, who have worked so tirelessly to support KCHT in providing over 40 safe, secure, affordable homes - enabling people with links to the Keswick area through family and work to live here, raise families and contribute to keeping Keswick a vibrant community. 

“If people are inspired by what KCHT has achieved and would like to help, contact us on secretary@KeswickCHT.org.uk.

“Here’s to many more years of KCHT making a difference, and hopefully providing even more homes!"