A CHARITABLE housing provider which helps put lives back on track has been nominated for a Pride in Medway award.

Ashdown Medway Accommodation Trust (AMAT), in Chatham, has been put forward for the community involvement category by Michael Fernandez.

Michael, who is the chairman of the Brook Lines Residents' Action Group (BLRAG), said: "AMAT is a charitable housing provider in the Brook Lines area of Chatham.

"It takes direct referrals for accommodation for people who have found themselves to be homeless.

"AMAT also works with Medway Council to support people in accessing vocational learning, enabling them to seek gainful employment and realise their potential. AMAT has literally put lives back on track.

"It is for this reason that AMAT should be considered for an award. Its tireless efforts are really having a positive impact in this disadvantaged community.

"This type of community and partnership working is vital if social justice is to be served, not only to improve the quality of the local workforce, but to ensure that future generations face a brighter future and freedom from social exclusion.

"For this organisation and its officers to be recognised for their contributions would give them an enormous boost and make them feel their efforts were worthwhile."

Jodie Geddes, AMAT team resources manager, said: "We're flattered at this nomination. Everybody within the organisation deserves recognition. All the staff work very hard to help those who have nowhere to turn to in order to change their lives for the better."