Lifetime Achievement Award for Stockport Homes Group CEO

Stockport Homes Group Chief Executive, Helen McHale, has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her 40-year career in the housing sector.

Helen McHale, who has led Stockport Homes Group for two decades, was recognised with the honour at the 2025 Housing Heroes Awards.

Helen has transformed Stockport’s housing services since her appointment in 2005 to lead the newly formed Arms Length Managment Organisation (ALMO), Stockport Homes. During her tenure, she has turned around a struggling council-run service into one of the highest-performing housing providers in the UK. The organisation has since earned two top three-star Audit Commission ratings, unlocking £100 million in investment and changing thousands of lives.

Beyond Stockport, she has shaped housing policy through her roles as Vice Chair of Greater Manchester Housing Providers, board member of the National Federation of ALMOs, and as an academic examiner at Salford University. Her leadership style – authentic, inclusive, and resilient – has inspired countless others in the sector.

Known for her unwavering commitment to customers and colleagues, she also spearheaded the award-winning #BeYou inclusivity programme and led Stockport Homes Group to achieve Investors in People Platinum and 16 consecutive years of Best Companies recognition.

Steve Partridge, Chair of the Board at Stockport Homes Group, said:

Helen transformed Stockport’s housing services from zero stars to one of the UK’s leading providers. Her impact on customers, colleagues, and the sector is unparalleled. Despite numerous accolades, Helen has always stayed humble—this award is a long-overdue recognition of her exceptional service and dedication.“