Winners of the National Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards 2026 announced!
The Training & Development Award
Insight Training and Consultancy
It was clear there was a strong sense of equality and mutual respect among all the trainers, whose collaborative approach was central to the success of the programme. By working together and drawing on a range of lived and professional experiences, they effectively challenged common misconceptions and stereotypes. This created a powerful learning environment that encouraged reflection and meaningful discussion. As a result, the training had a tangible impact on participants, increasing their understanding, confidence, and awareness. This has helped professionals develop more inclusive attitudes and approaches, leading to more respectful, person-centred engagement with people with learning disabilities and autistic people in their day-to-day practice.
The Employer Award (Independent)
M&D Care
Michelle and Neil spoke with genuine warmth, passion, and professionalism as they shared their commitment to helping people live fulfilling and meaningful lives. Michelle gave an authentic and inspiring account of building the business from the ground up, openly reflecting on both the achievements and personal challenges she experienced along the way. Their dedication to delivering truly person-centred care was consistently evident throughout the conversation, supported by their extensive knowledge, compassion, and clear values. Together, they demonstrated a strong commitment to improving the lives of others, creating a supportive environment where individuals are empowered, respected, and encouraged to achieve their full potential every day.
Resolve Care
Dave and Ann complemented each other exceptionally well, demonstrating a balanced and compassionate approach to care delivery that seamlessly integrated both social and healthcare aspects. They spoke with genuine passion, authenticity, and warmth, making their dedication to supporting others immediately clear. Their shared vision and strong partnership created an engaging and inspiring conversation, and it was impossible not to be drawn into their story. Together, they reflected the values of high-quality, person-centred care, showing a deep understanding of the importance of supporting individuals holistically and with dignity, respect, and compassion always.
The Employer Award (Not for Profit)
Northam Care Trust
The judges were particularly impressed by the organisation’s long-standing commitment to enabling people with learning disabilities and autism to live full, meaningful lives through highly personalised, high-quality support. Its strong values were evident in every aspect of delivery, from co-production and community involvement to staff development and wellbeing. The successful transformation of a previously inadequate service, alongside consistent innovation, strong leadership, and exceptional outcomes for people supported, distinguished it in a highly competitive field.
Liseux Trust
The judges praised the organisation’s strong people-centred culture, evident in its low staff turnover, high satisfaction rates, and commitment to wellbeing and development. Approachable leadership, clear career pathways, and a community ethos create positive outcomes for staff and residents alike. Their passion for improving lives made them worthy runners-up.
The Employer of People with a Disability Award
Grace Eyre Foundation
Grace Eyre creates meaningful opportunities that help people build confidence, independence, and connections. Through personalised support, community activities, creative programmes, employment projects, and peer support through Reach, they empower individuals to develop skills, achieve their goals, and play an active role in their communities. Their inclusive approach has made a lasting difference to the lives of the people they support. Well done.
Dudley Voices for Choice
Dudley Voices was recognised for its strong commitment to advocacy and inclusion. It runs sessions focused on human rights, helping people understand their rights and build confidence while strengthening connections within the community. The organisation actively reaches out to people in day provisions, bringing sessions directly to them to ensure accessibility and inclusion. It prioritises lived experience by listening to people’s voices and making sure they are represented on partnership boards.
The Newcomer Award
Thabo Mholongo, Outward
Thabo demonstrates genuine passion, positivity, and joy in his work. He understands the value of hard work and is deeply motivated by his parents in South Africa, whose support inspires him to keep striving for success and making them proud. He is committed to continuous personal and professional growth, with a clear ambition to develop his skills so he can help more people, create opportunities, and provide meaningful solutions. His determination, optimism, and strong work ethic make him an inspiring example of resilience, compassion, and dedication within the care profession.
Julia Morris, My 3 LTD
Julia, a proud mother of three teenagers, is deeply committed to ensuring the children she supports receive the same care, opportunities, respect, and encouragement she would want for her own family. She is passionate about nurturing their wellbeing, promoting their safety, and helping them thrive. Julia values the relationships she builds, recognising that she also grows and learns through the experiences she shares with the young people in her care. For her, coming to work is a genuine joy, and she looks forward to every new adventure, challenge, and memorable moment alongside the children she supports.
The Support Worker Award (Independent)
Josh Roberts, My3 Ltd
Josh delivered a powerful and engaging interview that clearly reflected his passion, dedication, and commitment to making a difference. His enthusiasm shone through in every aspect of his story, demonstrating how he consistently goes above and beyond in his work and personal development. The book he created was both inspiring and thought-provoking, showcasing his determination, creativity, and desire to motivate others. It was evident that Josh has invested significant time and effort into his training, and the pride he takes in his achievements was unmistakable. His journey is a testament to hard work and perseverance. Keep being outstanding, Josh—your passion and commitment are truly inspiring.
Chris Broadwell, IDEM Living
Chris spoke with genuine passion and pride about his 20 years with the company, demonstrating a deep commitment to both his role and the people he works with. His extensive experience was evident in the knowledge and insight he shared, but what stood out most was his caring and compassionate approach. He clearly values building positive relationships and making a meaningful difference through his work. Christopher’s dedication over two decades reflects not only loyalty and professionalism but also a strong sense of purpose. His enthusiasm remains as strong as ever, serving as an excellent example of commitment, integrity, and care.
The Support Worker Award (Not for Profit)
Lynn Clarke, Sanctuary Supported Living
Lynn recently supported a resident through a cancer diagnosis, providing unwavering care during an incredibly difficult and uncertain time. She offered stability, reassurance, and compassion, helping to ease the resident’s fears and anxieties throughout their journey. Lynn attended treatment appointments alongside them, prepared packed lunches, and patiently answered questions whenever things felt overwhelming. She understood that some days would be more challenging than others, yet her support never faltered. Through her kindness, dedication, and consistent presence, Lynn made a profound difference, helping the resident feel safe, supported, and hopeful, ultimately contributing to a positive outcome and a much less isolating experience.
Owen Mayes, Autism at Kingwood
Owen is genuinely one of a kind. Since joining Autism at Kingwood in 2020, he has shown unwavering dedication to enriching the lives of the people he supports. His commitment, consistency, and calm approach help create trust and stability, while his person-centred practice ensures individuals are supported in ways that are meaningful, respectful, and tailored to their needs.
The Frontline Leader Award
Josh Platt, Cedar Health and Wellbeing
Josh brings enthusiasm, positivity, and determination to his role, consistently demonstrating knowledge and maturity beyond his years. Despite his young age, he has proven himself to be skilled, dedicated, and highly capable. Josh is humble in recognising that his achievements are shared with his team, firmly believing that staff are the heart of any service. He takes great pride in overcoming doubts and expectations placed on him because of his age and remains committed to growing both personally and professionally. Josh is passionate about supporting his team and service users, and approaches the future with confidence, ambition, and optimism.
Michael Ratcliffe, Housing Plus Group
Michael is incredibly proud of his journey from being a service user while battling anxiety to becoming a dedicated Team Leader who now supports and cares for others. His personal growth, resilience, and determination are truly inspiring. Having recently achieved a distinction in his Level 3 qualification, Michael is focused on continuing his development with the goal of becoming a manager soon.
The Registered Manager Award (Independent)
Katrina Nadal, Ivolve Care and Support
Katrina stood out among an exceptionally strong group of nominees through her unwavering dedication and compassionate approach to care. She clearly demonstrated her commitment to ensuring every resident’s voice is heard, valued, and respected. Katrina consistently goes above and beyond to enhance the quality of life for those she supports, taking the time to understand individual needs, preferences, and aspirations. Her person-centred approach, combined with her genuine kindness and advocacy, has a meaningful and lasting impact on residents, creating an environment where people feel empowered, supported, and truly listened to every day.
Alanna Alston, PBS Care Ltd
Alanna is a truly deserving Highly Commended finalist whose inspiring journey, passion, and leadership stood out throughout the judging process. Her dedication to improving the lives of the young people she supports is evident in everything she does, consistently creating positive and meaningful outcomes. Alongside this, Alanna provides outstanding guidance, encouragement, and support to her team, helping to create a strong and compassionate working environment. Her commitment, professionalism, and ability to lead with empathy are making a genuine and lasting difference every day to both the young people in her care and those she works alongside.
The Registered Manager Award (Not for Profit)
Claire Finnigan, Partner in Support
Claire is a highly experienced and passionate leader with a profound understanding of the needs of the people she supports. Her approach is refreshingly innovative, consistently focused on celebrating positive outcomes and creating meaningful opportunities for individuals to thrive. She is committed to driving continuous improvement within her service, ensuring that every aspect of care reflects the highest standards of person-centred support. Through her dedication, insight, and forward-thinking leadership, Claire is making significant and lasting improvements that enhance quality of life. Her impact is evident in the culture she fosters and the positive changes she continues to embed across the service.
Claire Dante, Strode Park Foundation
A confident and forward-thinking leader, she is deeply committed to partnership working to ensure the best possible outcomes for the people she supports and their families. Her approach is both innovative and creative, consistently seeking new ways to open opportunities, promote inclusion, and enhance quality of life. She values collaboration and actively builds strong relationships across teams, families, and professionals to deliver truly person-centred support. Through her vision, determination, and inclusive leadership style, she creates environments where individuals are empowered to thrive, feel valued, and achieve their potential. Her impact is evident in the positive culture and opportunities she continues to develop.
The Learning Disability Nurse Award
Alysha Adeniran, Alternative Futures Group
Alysha consistently demonstrates exceptional care, compassion, and dedication in everything she does. She speaks passionately about her work and truly believes she is where she is meant to be, supporting individuals whose voices are not always heard. Alysha is a strong advocate, always ensuring that those she supports are treated with dignity, respect, and given every opportunity to express their wishes and needs. Her commitment to making a positive difference is evident in her daily work, and she approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and determination. Alysha is also a valued mentor to her colleagues, offering guidance, encouragement, and support. Her passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment are truly inspiring and deserve recognition.
Gemma Marston, Milewood
Gemma is a clinical deputy manager with over 25 years of experience, bringing exceptional knowledge, consistency, and leadership to her role. She works tirelessly to ensure residents are happy, well supported, and able to live fulfilling lives. Gemma consistently delivers her responsibilities to a high standard, combining professionalism with genuine compassion. She plays a key role in supporting staff, maintaining a positive culture, and ensuring person-centred care is always at the heart of the service.
The Learning Disability & Autism Team Award
North East Activities Team, Creative Support
We were particularly impressed by the way the team delivers exciting, engaging, and meaningful activities while keeping the people they support at the centre of everything they do. Their commitment to person-centred practice is evident in both their creativity and their approach to service delivery. The team works collaboratively, drawing on each other’s strengths, ideas, and experiences to innovate, learn, and continually improve. This strong culture of teamwork enables them to create opportunities that are enriching, inclusive, and responsive to individual needs and aspirations. Their passion, enthusiasm, and dedication result in outstanding support that empowers people and enhances quality of life.
Kenmor Avenue team, Thera Trust
We were highly impressed by the team’s passion, commitment, and genuine enthusiasm for the people they support. It was clear that this is far more than just a job to them; they truly care about making a positive difference in people’s lives. They demonstrated a strong understanding of person-centred care, taking the time to get to know individuals, understand their preferences, and recognise their unique needs. Their approach helps create a welcoming environment where people feel valued, supported, and at home. They showed warmth, empathy, and professionalism throughout, making them an outstanding candidate who fully deserves top marks.
The Making a Difference Award (Independent)
Nathaniel Hawey, Divergent Training LTD
Nathaniel’s passion for the industry is deeply rooted in his own experience as a neurodivergent individual. He is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and personal insight on neurodiversity with people of all ages and professions, always taking time to understand individuals. His commitment to continuous learning and exploring how different minds process the world is both inspiring and impactful. Nathaniel believes support should adapt to the individual, not the other way around. He describes his company as ambitious, creative, rebellious, passionate, scientific, nerdy, fun, insightful, impactful, and adventurous — values clearly reflected in his work every day.
Julia Gudinchet, Sunflower Autism Consultancy
Julia’s journey is truly inspiring. Having faced personal challenges from a young age without a diagnosis or support, she has since found the understanding she deserved and gone on to thrive within her industry. She now uses her experiences to help families and children better understand autism, offering guidance, reassurance, and advocacy. Julia has dedicated herself to growing her business into something truly special, creating a safe and empowering space where young people and families are given a voice and represented beyond the stigma often faced within the community. Her passion, resilience, and commitment are making a meaningful and lasting impact every day.
The Making a Difference Award (Not for Profit)
Victoria King, Shared lives Plus
Victoria’s willingness to use her own lived experience to support, inspire, and educate others is truly remarkable. Her passion and determination shine through in everything she does, as she continually finds innovative and empowering ways to help people understand the opportunities available to them and how they can access them. Victoria’s authenticity and resilience allow her to connect with others in a meaningful way, encouraging confidence, independence, and hope. She refuses to let barriers define her and instead uses her experiences to create positive change, making a lasting impact on the lives of those she supports every day.
Joan Pons Laplana,NHS Engalnd
Jo’s commitment to ensuring the NHS recognises people with learning disabilities and autism as a valuable and positive part of its workforce is truly evident. His open, inclusive, and non-judgemental approach has created opportunities for individuals who may otherwise have been overlooked, enabling them to succeed, grow, and thrive. Jo is passionate about breaking down barriers and championing equality, empowering people to reach their potential with confidence and dignity. Through his encouragement, advocacy, and belief in others, he continues to make a meaningful difference to both individuals and the wider workforce culture.
The Supported Housing Award
Supported Living Division, Salutem Care and Education
All Supported Living services are carefully designed and refurbished in partnership with tenants, families, and professionals who understand everyone’s unique needs and preferences. Every detail is thoughtfully planned to ensure nothing is left to chance, creating safe, personalised, and welcoming environments that truly feel like home. A strong focus is placed on successful transitions, ensuring tenants feel comfortable, supported, and settled from the very beginning. This person-centred approach has resulted in exceptional long-term outcomes, including zero service breakdowns, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to stability, quality, and providing homes where individuals can thrive for life.
Peer to Peer Support, Grace Eyre Foundation
They demonstrate exceptional creativity and innovation in the way budgets are used, ensuring tenants are empowered to have their voices heard and their feelings, choices, and wishes genuinely respected. Their approach focuses on creating meaningful opportunities for individuals to share their experiences and support others who may be considering similar living arrangements or services. By encouraging open conversations in a fun, welcoming, and informal way, they help build confidence, understanding, and a strong sense of community. Their commitment to person-centred support ensures tenants feel valued, listened to, and actively involved in shaping positive experiences for themselves and others.
The Breaking Down Barriers Award
Barry Heath, Ivy Garden
Barry is a shining example of resilience, determination, and what can be achieved by overcoming barriers to build a meaningful and productive life. His entrepreneurial spirit, enthusiasm, and initiative are truly impressive, driving positive change within both his work and the wider community. Barry has successfully built trust through education, openness, and genuine engagement, helping to challenge misconceptions and break down stigma surrounding the learning disability community. Through his actions and advocacy, he has created greater understanding, inclusion, and opportunity for others, making a lasting and valuable contribution that continues to positively impact the wider LD community every day.
Rachel McKinlay, Birmingham Community Health Care Trust
Rachel has introduced outstanding initiatives that empower individuals to become more independent while ensuring their safety and wellbeing through effective risk management. She has demonstrated a thoughtful and responsive approach when addressing complex challenges, particularly the stigma faced by offenders within society. Rachel works with compassion, professionalism, and determination to create opportunities for individuals to rebuild confidence, develop independence, and feel valued within their communities.
The Sporting Chance Award
Stephen Adamson, Achieve together
Stephen’s journey is truly inspiring. Having overcome severe social anxiety linked to autism, he now leads inclusive exercise groups that bring people together, reduce loneliness, and improve both physical and mental wellbeing within the community. His determination and personal growth are remarkable. Stephen achieved his FA Level 1 Coaching Qualification with the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation and now uses his passion for football to empower individuals with learning disabilities and autism. Through his leadership, kindness, and resilience, he demonstrates the life-changing impact of inclusion and creates opportunities for others to build confidence, connection, and a stronger sense of belonging every day.
Andrew Bishop, Birtenshaw Group
An exceptionally passionate and inspiring leader, he is transforming lives through inclusive sport and fitness on a significant scale. Drawing on his experience as a former professional footballer, he has developed innovative SEN enrichment centres and day services that actively break down barriers for people with learning disabilities and autism. His work empowers individuals to build confidence, develop independence, and adopt healthier lifestyles while encouraging them to achieve far beyond expectations. Through his vision, leadership, and commitment to inclusion, he creates environments where people feel valued, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential, delivering lasting and meaningful impact across communities.
The Supporting Older People with Learning Disabilities Award
The Laurel and Dean Park, Optimal Living Swindon
This service provides exceptional, lifelong care for people with learning disabilities, offering consistent and compassionate support that adapts seamlessly as individual needs change over time. From the age of 50 through to end-of-life care, it ensures dignity, comfort, and continuity, while maintaining a strong focus on person-centred practice. The service is committed to understanding everyone’s journey, responding proactively to changing needs, and promoting quality of life at every stage. Through dedicated staff and a flexible approach, it delivers stability, reassurance, and meaningful support that enables people to live well and feel valued throughout their lives.
Heysham Road Staff Team, Creative Support
This service demonstrates exceptional, compassionate, and person-centred support for ageing individuals with learning disabilities. As people’s needs have evolved over time, the team has responded proactively by introducing specialist equipment, enhancing staff training, and working closely with multi-disciplinary professionals to ensure the highest standards of care. They consistently promote choice, dignity, and independence, while providing sensitive and skilled support through complex transitions, including end-of-life care. Their ability to adapt while maintaining continuity and trust has had a profound impact on those they support. Their commitment, insight, and unwavering dedication make them truly deserving of high commendation and recognition.
The Great Autism Practice Award
The Autism Hampshire External Training Team, Avenues Group
Autism Hampshire has transformed autism practice through a neuro-affirming, lived-experience-led approach that challenges traditional, pathology-based models. As a Senior Autism Practice Training Specialist, they deliver innovative training, consultancy, and community programmes that address diagnostic overshadowing, centre individuality, and empower autistic people, families, and professionals. Their work is driving meaningful, lasting systemic change across services nationally.
Resolve Care
This highly commended service exemplifies outstanding person‑centred practice in complex learning disability and autism forensic support. As an Outstanding‑rated provider, the team balances safeguarding with compassion and stability, delivering deeply individualised care. Through meticulous assessment, autism‑designed environments and consistent staffing, they reduce anxiety, foster security and enable meaningful, lasting change.
The Outstanding Contribution Award (Independent)
Michelle Turner, Looking Forward Activities Ltd
This is an inspiring story of a mother whose unwavering determination and commitment have transformed lives. Driven by love and resilience, she has dedicated herself to creating positive, supportive environments for individuals with learning disabilities and autism. Her journey began with establishing a service to support her son after he left education, and from that foundation she has become a powerful catalyst for positive change. Through her vision, advocacy, and tireless effort, she has developed opportunities that promote independence, dignity, and inclusion. Her impact continues to grow, and she is truly deserving of recognition for the difference she has made.
Dr Deborah Lawson, Independent
An inspiring individual who, upon becoming a wheelchair user, faced new challenges with remarkable courage and determination. Rather than allowing barriers to define her, she has consistently worked to ensure that people’s voices are heard, valued, and respected. Her tireless advocacy and dedication as a volunteer have made a meaningful and lasting impact, helping to improve practice and drive positive change across the sector. Through her resilience, compassion, and commitment to inclusion, she continues to inspire those around her and demonstrate the power of lived experience in shaping better, more person-centred support for others.
The Outstanding Contribution Award (Not for Profit)
Michelle Louise Marlow, Kids Charity
Michelle spoke with remarkable inspiration and authenticity. A compassionate practitioner, she has worked continuously since the age of 16, demonstrating extraordinary dedication, resilience, and purpose throughout her career. Her message was both empowering and uplifting: no dream is beyond reach when matched with commitment, perseverance, and self-belief. Through her own journey, she showed that challenges can become opportunities, and that success is built through determination and hard work. Michelle encouraged everyone to aim high, embrace their potential, and never give up on their aspirations. Her story was a powerful reminder that with passion, courage, and belief, almost anything is possible.
Sir Richard Stilgeo, The Orpheus centre Trust Ltd
A visionary educator, he founded a specialist college in 1997 to build life skills, independence, and confidence through performing arts for disabled young adults. Challenging low expectations, he created an Outstanding Ofsted provision that transforms lives. His leadership champions inclusion, emotional growth, and belief in every individual’s potential.
The Positive Behaviour Support Award
Service Improvement Team, Amore Complex Care
This is an outstanding PBS team that is fully committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care and support. Their passion for excellence is evident in everything they do, from their proactive approach to positive behaviour support to their dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for the people they support. The team consistently reflects on practice, embraces learning opportunities, and seeks innovative ways to enhance the quality of care. They demonstrate strong leadership, collaboration, and professionalism, creating a culture of continuous improvement.
PBS Specialist Team, Aspens Charities
This team demonstrates exceptional passion and commitment to the wellbeing, welfare, and quality of life of the people they support. They are dedicated to ensuring that individuals receive compassionate, person-centred care that promotes independence, dignity, and positive outcomes. Equally impressive is their commitment to developing staff knowledge, skills, and confidence through ongoing learning and professional development. They recognise that investing in their workforce directly enhances the quality of support provided and benefits everyone involved. Their proactive approach to sharing best practice, fostering growth, and driving continuous improvement creates a positive culture where both individuals and staff can thrive and succeed.
The Supporting People with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities Award
M&D Care
M&D Care are worthy PMLD Award winners, delivering truly bespoke support through highly personalised environments, specialist expertise and tailored murals that enhance quality of life. Their clear understanding of supported living and residential care, alongside innovative roles and specialist career pathways, ensures excellent outcomes and a skilled, dedicated workforce.
Dr Anuradha Rani Uppaluri, Bridging Brains CIC
Anuradha leads a powerful vision of breaking barriers, shaped by her personal journey and deep commitment to neurodivergent individuals. She actively challenges stigma within ethnic communities, promotes a strengths-based understanding of neurodiversity, and creates inclusive spaces that foster connection, peer support, advocacy, and more accessible, responsive, and equitable systems.
The People’s Award (Individual)
Ellie Hall, Specialist Homecare Group
Ellie breaks barriers through trauma-informed practice, strong communication, and lived experience. She promotes dignity and respect in training, adapts support through regular check-ins, and advocates within services. Ellie encourages independence by responding to preferences and feedback, while raising awareness of disabilities, including FND, through community work and social media outreach.
Joan Pons Laplana, NHS England
An NHS England nurse leads a programme supporting young people with learning disabilities and autism into paid work. Using lived experience, he ensures respect through tailored placements, assessments, and check-ins. He builds independence through small steps and consistently exceeds expectations by providing ongoing, practical support beyond standard responsibilities.
The People’s Award (Team)
The Voice and Power Project – L’Arche, L’Arche UK
L’Arche’s Voice and Power project breaks down barriers to communication, employment, and participation by ensuring people can access clear, accessible information and confidently share their views and lived experiences. At its core, the project is about power—building confidence, independence, and genuine influence so people are heard, included, and able to shape decisions that affect their lives.
Moorview Matters
Moorview Matters is a passionate and influential group of people supported by Moorview Care, currently leading an exciting new project that puts them firmly in the driving seat of their own support. The group is co-producing personalised video content that reflects their lives, choices, and aspirations, strengthening their voice, independence, and control over how their support is shaped and understood
