Tricia Welsh, recently retired Warm Homes Team Manager at Hull City Council, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the New Year Honours List for her outstanding contribution to energy efficiency and efforts to alleviate fuel poverty.
Tricia retired in 2024 after dedicating 21 years to Hull’s housing sector. During her career, she played a pivotal role in shaping the council’s Warm Homes Team, which supports residents across all tenures.
Originally operating as an independent charity (Warm Zones), the Warm Homes Team was integrated into the council in November 2018 to safeguard its future and ensure the continued delivery of vital services.
Under Tricia’s leadership, the team focused on establishing a single residential property database (Parity), securing over £51 million in grant funding and establishing framework contracts to enable energy efficiency improvements for households unable to afford them.
Her work has had a lasting impact on Hull’s approach to tackling fuel poverty and improving housing standards, benefiting thousands of residents across the city.
Reacting to the announcement of her MBE, Tricia said: “I’m truly honoured to receive this recognition – it was such a wonderful surprise.
“However, this award isn’t just for me, it’s recognition of the incredible team I’ve had the privilege to work with over the years.
“I loved every moment of the job. It never felt like a chore because helping people live in warmer homes was something I cared deeply about. To see that effort acknowledged in this way means so much to me.”
Councillor Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: “I would like to extend my congratulations to Tricia who has transformed the way we support residents in Hull. Her passion, and dedication, for tackling fuel poverty and improving energy efficiency has made a real difference to thousands of households. This honour is truly well deserved.”
Matt Jukes, Chief Executive of Hull City Council, added: “Throughout her career, Tricia always went above and beyond to help people live in warmer homes, especially through her partnership working. Her commitment and expertise have left a lasting legacy for our city and we’re incredibly proud to see her recognised at the highest level.”
Tricia started her working life in the fishing industry. She then went on to volunteer as an energy advisor with Warm Front in 2004 before Joining Warm Zones in 2006.
Over her career, Tricia, and her team, received several recognitions from the Yorkshire and Humber Energy Efficiency Awards and the UK Housing Awards.