Our Chief Executive has been recognised in the Queen’s birthday honours list. Claire Higgins has been awarded an MBE for services to housing in recognition of a career dedicated to bringing affordable homes and support to the communities who need them.  

Having worked in the housing sector for more than 35 years, Claire has delivered many varied projects to increase housing supply and provide new and innovative ways to support residents. Claire joined Cross Keys Homes 17 years ago and became Chief Executive in 2014, during which time she has overseen the launch of Cross Keys Care and accelerated the growth of the organisation’s development programme to deliver more than 500 new homes a year. Under Claire’s leadership, CKH also boasts a substantial community investment programme designed to support with access to education and training, inspiring young people, increasing employability, and the promotion of mental and physical wellbeing.  

Claire Higgins MBE said “I was surprised, delighted and very overwhelmed to learn that I was to be honoured in this way. A safe, stable, affordable home really is the foundation for everything else in life, which is why I believe the work we do in the housing sector is so vitally important.  

“Housing associations don’t just provide homes, we work to make sure people have the skills and opportunities they need to live happy lives within successful communities. I have worked alongside many wonderful and passionate people over the years who have inspired me and shared my commitment to building better communities. Someone once said that if you find a job you love you will never work again and that has been something I have found very true 99.99% of the time during my career so far. This recognition is a great personal honour, but it is also a reflection of the combined energy and determination of the partners, colleagues and peers who have inspired me and that I have collaborated with on countless projects that have gone on to make a real difference to people’s lives over the years.”