Habinteg's Mike Donnelly awarded OBE in New Year's Honours

Mike Donnelly, former Chief Executive Officer, Habinteg Housing Association, has been named as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to the Housing Sector in the New Year’s Honours List.

Mike joined Habinteg Housing Association as a Development Director in 1987 and became Chief Executive in 1992, retiring this year. An avid campaigner for disability rights within housing and Lifetime Homes, Mike has championed difference throughout his career.

The British honours system is one of the oldest in the world. It is a means of recognising merit, gallantry and service in people from a range of backgrounds who have made a difference to their community.

Mike says, “I’m delighted. For a long time Habinteg has been plugging away at the need for all new homes to be designed to the better quality Lifetime Homes Standard. This award recognises our efforts to bring the standard into government policy. It also recognises Habinteg’s expertise and prominent role in the housing and disability fields. Board staff and tenants have all contributed and should be proud of their achievements. I have no doubt the forward march for fully inclusive homes and services will continue following my retirement.”

Paul Gamble, Acting Chief Executive at Habinteg, said: “Mike has achieved much during his career and this honour is well deserved. His passion and commitment to improved design standards and inclusion within the housing sector is unsurpassed. Mike has certainly made a difference in housing; championing Lifetime Homes standards and developing Habinteg’s expertise in the housing sector.”