WEAVER Vale Housing Trust is celebrating after receiving a hat-trick of short-listings for prestigious awards.

The first, from Women in Housing, went to Sue Stoneley for Leading Female Mentor. Ms Stoneley has worked within the Trust since she joined four years ago in an administrative support role.

She then became the apprentice for the work and enterprise team, and after a brief spell in the PR and communications team, she helped to establish Employment Horizons and the Weaver Vale mentoring scheme.

She also volunteers outside of work supporting local young people.

Ms Stoneley said: “I was thrilled to have been shortlisted for the award, especially when I was reading about all the amazing achievements of other women who have won in previous years.

“I am passionate about supporting young people and firmly believe that if they are given the support they will be able to excel.”

Secondly, the Trust has been shortlisted in the Care and Support Provider of the Year category at the 24-Housing awards for the work done through Cotswold House, which provides supported accommodation for homeless women from across Cheshire West and Chester.

The Road to Resettlement programme helps them learn life skills and make informed choices. Since it was taken over by Weaver Vale Housing Trust in 2002, it has supported more than 300 women on their path to independence.

Finally, the Trust has also been shortlisted for a Cheshire Business Award in the Inspiring Apprenticeships category. In the last 12 months the trust employed 26 apprentices.

All apprenticeships are offered from two to four years and offer a two-year apprenticeship support programme.

Steve Jennings, chief executive, said: “I am thrilled that we have been shortlisted for not one, but three prestigious awards, that between them reflect our commitment to the neighbourhoods we look after and the importance of having a diverse and happy workforce.”