A young Falkirk tenant has received national recognition for her efforts to make local housing services more inclusive for younger people.

Bryony O'Donnell from Denny, one of the youngest members of Falkirk Council’s Housing Service Improvement Scrutiny Group, was honoured with the Youth Involvement Award at this year's Tenant Participation and Advisory Service (TPAS) Scottish awards.

The TPAS awards celebrate outstanding contributions to tenant engagement and participation across Scotland. Bryony was recognised for her dedication to ensuring younger tenants have a voice in shaping how housing services are delivered in Falkirk.

Since joining the Scrutiny Group earlier this year, she has played a key role in shaping tenant surveys, assisting with training, and highlighting accessibility challenges. Bryony also helped the Council build direct links with young tenants through outreach at Forth Valley College, where she led informal lunchtime discussions to better understand students’ housing experiences.

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These conversations not only brought important issues to light but also inspired more young people to get involved in tenant participation with the Council.

Bryony said: "I felt it was important for there to be a younger voice at the table. Of all my friends and colleagues who are under 30, none of them have ever attended meetings or given input on council decisions.

"This means all the meetings and input the council receives is skewed towards an older more settled demographic who are understandably concerned about their already established homes.

"Unfortunately, this leaves behind others like me who are in the position of looking for a home they can be proud of while navigating these tumultuous times. Giving space for them to figure out their future whether that be working towards a career whilst having affordable housing or a place they can start a family and look forward to their future.

"I've always wanted to help others and make a difference and I feel like going down this path I am able to be the voice for those in my generation who are struggling to find their place and get a start."