JohnLeeds organisation LATCH (Leeds Action to Create Homes) has been named one of ten finalists in the nationwide Selco Community Heroes campaign and is in the running to win £10,000.
The organisation renovates empty properties across Harehills and Chapeltown, turning them into warm, energy-efficient homes to support people on their journey towards independence.
“LATCH is all about taking empty, wasted houses and bringing them back into use for families who desperately need them,” said Ruth Frost, communications lead at LATCH. “People really understand what we do because it’s so tangible, you can see the difference straight away. We’re improving neighbourhoods and helping families at the same time; it’s meaningful work that has a real and lasting impact.”
After winning £1,000 in the regional round of the campaign, Ruth said the money is currently being used to renovate a house that a mother and her three children who are currently homeless, will move into just before Christmas.
“The £1,000 has made a huge difference,” said Ruth. “The house needs a lot of work, but the family is so excited, especially because they’ve never had a garden before. Their enthusiasm has spurred our whole team on.”
Founded in 1989 as a cooperative with just one house, the organisation has since grown to offer many different opportunities for homeless and unemployed people. Today, its support workers, maintenance teams and tradespeople renovate multiple derelict properties each year, while also supporting tenants with food and wellbeing services.
The Selco Community Heroes campaign celebrates the incredible work carried out by organisations across the UK, with this year’s prize fund totalling £57,500, nearly five times more than previous years.
“We were so pleasantly surprised to have been nominated by Selco customers,” added Ruth. “Our refurbishment team spends a lot of time in Selco, so it feels like a lovely bit of recognition from people who might already know us; we’re very grateful to be recognised.”
“Winning £10,000 would mean the world to us,” continued Ruth. “It would go straight into our next renovation, a two-bedroom home that would suit a mum and child. It needs insulation, possibly a new roof, and a lot of internal work. This funding would help us bring another empty, derelict house back into use as a safe, comfortable home for a family who really needs it.”
Now advancing to the national finals, the organisation will compete for top prizes of £10,000, £5,000 and £2,500, with the winner announced in the new year.
Simon Humpage, Head of Multi Channel Marketing Selco Builders Warehouse said: “LATCH’s dedication to transforming abandoned properties into secure homes for families is truly inspiring. Their work strengthens both individuals and communities, and we’re proud to support such an impactful initiative.”
The public will have the chance to vote for their favourite community hero until 14 December, with the winner announced in January 2026.
To vote, visit the website.
