North Star has been named a finalist in the 2016 Responsible Business Awards, the UK’s longest running and most prestigious awards programme championing responsible businesses locally and globally.

North Star will now go ahead with the other finalists from across the UK in its category for the chance to be named overall winner.

North East based housing association North Star, prides itself in providing so much more than a place to live, and this can be seen by reaching the final stages of these rigorous awards for their exemplary approach to the wellbeing of their staff, customers and communities.

Run by the charity Business in the Community (BITC) the 2016 Responsible Business Awards celebrate inspiring examples of businesses that are making a significant difference by taking practical action to improve their local communities, create more inclusive working environments and tackle environmental challenges. The rigorous awards scheme saw 297 companies enter this year, 103 shortlisted and just 52 firms named finalists.

In the Bupa Wellbeing at Work category, North Star was recognised for investing in wellbeing and how this can drive positive organisational change.

Angela Lockwood, Chief Executive at North Star, said: “It’s a phenomenal achievement for us to be selected as an Awards Finalist for our approach to wellbeing.

“We put people at the forefront of everything we do, and for this to be recognised in such a significant way, and knowing we’ve been up against some of the top businesses in the country, is a huge achievement for us.”

Stephen Howard, Chief Executive, Business in the Community said: “We know that every day businesses contribute towards more resilient communities, stimulate local economies, help to create skilled and healthy workforces and tackle environmental challenges. These awards give much needed visibility to the responsible business movement by showcasing the practical ways business is creating change. I congratulate all the finalists for playing their part in building a fairer society and more sustainable future for us all.”