North Devon Council says it is proud to announce that one of its officers has been shortlisted in the prestigious LGC Awards, the biggest celebration of excellence in local government. 

Natasha (Tash) Rowland, the council's Service Lead for Housing, Vulnerable Persons and Community Safety has been recognised in the 'Outstanding Individual Contribution' category. She was nominated in recognition of her services to combat homelessness in North Devon. This includes being instrumental in the building of a partnership between the council, drug and alcohol services, physical and mental health services, and homelessness charities like Freedom Community Alliance, which all work together to support rough sleepers. Natasha was also responsible for setting up eight rough sleeper pods along with sixteen temporary accommodation bed places, which have provided a place of safety for rough sleepers.

Leader of North Devon Council, Councillor Ian Roome said: “Tash has made a huge individual contribution to the lives of homeless people in the North Devon district. She has a high degree of compassion for those unfortunate enough to find themselves being forced to rough sleep and has the unique ability to think outside of the box to provide them with the support, dignity and human kindness that they need. 

"As well as being instrumental introducing temporary accommodation pods to Barnstaple, Tash has been at the forefront of developing and maintaining core relationships with a wide range of partner agencies and her "can-do attitude" has resulted in a year on year reduction in the number of rough sleepers in North Devon.

“I am very proud that Tash has been shortlisted for these awards, which present a wonderful opportunity to pay tribute to all the people and organisations that work so hard to look after our communities.”

Natasha will next complete a presentation and be interviewed by a judging panel made up of senior and influential figures within local government. 

The winners of the LGC Awards will be announced at a ceremony on Wednesday 12 June 2024 at Grosvenor House, London.