Nichola Fahey has led Bridge – a provider of social housing to homeless families – through a period of significant change while also achieving Bridge’s most ambitious goal yet: housing 1,000 families in a single year.

At the heart of Nichola’s mission is a belief that homeless families deserve choice and dignity. She leads Bridge with authenticity and humility, ensuring that every conversation with families is empathetic, honest and rooted in respect. Her approach to supporting families willing to move to different local authority areas – an often controversial idea – is always flexible and non-coercive, empowering people to make the best decision for themselves. Nichola brings energy, optimism and stability to her team.

She has navigated staffing changes and financial pressures without compromising her values or exhausting her team. Nichola’s leadership also extends beyond her organisation. She actively engages with and inspires housing sector CEOs nationwide. Through calm persistence and genuine dialogue, she is shifting perspectives on how to end homelessness. Bridge may be a small supplier in the sector, but under Nichola’s leadership, it is a powerhouse of change.

What the judges said:

“A genuinely inspirational narrative that really paints a picture of a dedicated individual who is committed to her role. A really strong and powerful story and leadership in hard times”