The Employer Award (Independent)

Winner: Optimal Living

A care provider that has successfully revitalized a failing service and is ensuring continuity and stability for service users. With staff who have dedicated to them for over 14 years, this provider stands out, led by two of the most passionate individuals in the care industry that I have met.

Highly Commended: Capital Children’s Care

A passionate owner dedicated to children’s care and has demonstrated exceptional care delivery and upheld outstanding values. Truly inspirational.

Highly Commended: Partners in Support

A care provider that aims to keep clients at the heart of their service delivery, consistently prioritising their needs and well-being in every aspect of care.

The Employer Award (Not for Profit)

Winner: Active Prospects

An inspirational business that aims high to deliver excellence in all areas and supports young people to lead aspiring lives. A strong family feel where staff are rewarded, valued and supported to maximise their potential. Staff see opportunity which is harnessed to incredible effect. The businesses passion and ambition shone through making them worthy winners

Highly Commended: Possabilities CIC

Staff and service users are at the heart of this business which has some inspirational and unique ways to reward and value its staff, with new ways constantly being developed. Passion, fun and creativity came through in abundance making them worthy runners up

The Employer of People With a Disability Award

Winner:  Wincanton logistics, Dimensions

Passion, commitment, desire, heart, determination, and a genuine warmth define their approach. These qualities drive their unwavering dedication to those they serve, creating a nurturing and supportive environment for all.

Highly Commended: Norfolk industries for disabled people

Norfolk Industries for disabled people go above in beyond in employing those with learning disabilities and are much deserving of high commendation in this category. They stand as a shining example of inclusivity and take and approach many can seek to learn from.

The Newcomer Award 

Winner: Jennifer Hood, Hounslow Council

Jennifer’s enthusiasm and devotion to her role in supporting individuals with learning disabilities was inspiring. Jennifer has supported many people to learn to travel safely and independently, through instruction, teaching, demonstrating and doing. She is appreciated by the people she supports and is recognised and requested to support others even outside her area, I was truly moved by Jennifer’s story and her own journey.

Highly Commended: Sean Mercer, Include In Autism

Sean’s energy and commitment to his role was truly energising. Sean is not only managing support needs at home but is fully dedicated to improving the lives of the people he supports. Sean’s depth of care and understanding of the client group he works with was inspiring, especially as he is so new to being employed in such a role; I was left with no doubt that the people he cares for get a truly person-centred experience and have a true advocate in Sean.

The Support Worker Award (Independent)

Winner: Nichola Blacklaw, Precious Homes Gloucester

Nichola has an outstanding passion and unwavering dedication which resonated deeply with the judge, leaving a profound impression. She is a true asset to the sector, exuding utmost respect for both the individuals she supports and her colleagues. A well-deserved victory in this category reflects his exemplary commitment and contribution.

Highly Commended: Susan Choat, ivolve care and support

Thoroughly impressed by Susan’s exceptional dedication and evident compassion. She consistently exceeds expectations, displaying a remarkable commitment to learning and growth. Well done.

The Support Worker Award (Not for Profit)

Winner: Scott Turner, Mid and South Essex NHS FT

Creative, innovative, person-centred- 3 words which encapsulate Scott’s approach to support. Scott is a natural problem-solver whose passion for his role drives accessibility in his setting. A well-deserved winner- we hope to see his ideas rolled out across the NHS and social care. Our warmest congratulations!

Highly Commended: Danicka Hall, Catherine Tam House

Scarecrows and wrestling- Danicka has a refreshingly unique take on the Support Worker role. Family and community are at the heart of her approach, creating truly meaningful relationships. Her support has enabled an individual to gain the independence to live life on his terms. Thank you Danicka for making a real difference!
The Frontline Leader Award (Independent)

Winner: Karen Butt, Partners in Support

Karen’s approach is holistic and empathetic. The way she speaks about the people she supports with compassion and respect, which enables other people to see them in a positive light. This enables them to build effective relationships which in turn expands people’s opportunities.

Highly Commended: Nicole Milner, Cygnet Healthcare

Nicole is acutely aware of the emotional toll that supporting people in crisis can take on her team. She strives to be a positive influence and a comforting presence for both those she supports and her staff. By combining this with clear expectations, her impactful leadership becomes evident

Highly Commended: Linda Ekobay, Optimo care

Alongside being a safe pair of hands to her management team Linda is not afraid to think outside the box and take action to safeguard those in her care. She works in a proactive way encouraging her team to also be innovative and forward thinking.

The Frontline Leader Award (Not for Profit)

Winner: Jessica Brookes, MacIntyre

Jessica is an exceptional frontline leader whose passion for investing in staff was evident throughout her interview. She is supportive of her staff teams and passionate about delivering person centred, solution focused care that is tailored to each resident’s individual’s needs. She has an impact at all levels of her organisation. Well done!

Highly Commended: Jordan Green, Nottinghamshire NHS Foundation Trust

Jordan’s commitment to support her team in providing exceptional, targeted care shone through her interview. Her ability to identify person centred support; Focusing on the patient’s needs enabled her to think creatively, advocate strongly, seek expert opinions beyond her field, and develop a crucial understanding of their requirements.

The Registered Manager Award (Independent)

Winner: Hannah Gavin, Optimo Care Group

From the start of the interview, this candidate just blew us away with her passion, dedication and commitment to supporting some of the most complex people in the country, however I don’t think she realised the significant impact she was having. Supporting individuals that other people had given up on, stating she never wanted to give up. She has a great career in the sector and will undoubtedly make a difference.

Highly Commended: Matthew Saunders, Orbis Education and Care

Mathew started as a support worker and quickly progressed. He was then sent to ‘the problem home’ and within 6 months has done some great work in meeting the Improvement Notices from the Care Inspectorate. A leader leading by example, providing practice leadership. 

The Registered Manager Award (Not for Profit)

Winner:  Jeanette Jowett, Camphill Village Trust

We were impressed by Jeanette’s management to improve the quality of her service whilst overcoming the perceived institutional challenges of a model of care which sees services delivered on a working farm. The collaboration of the services with the workshops delivered on the farm, alongside the integration of the community through the cafe and bakery ventures, means there are wonderful opportunities for real work skills to be developed. The underlying PBS approach was passionately described by Jeanette, and her compassionate leadership really shone.

Highly Commended: Sharon Oliver, Hightown Housing Association

Sharon has managed her services for the last 16 years, and it was evident how much she cares for her colleagues as well as the people that they support. She took pride in ensuring the quality of life for people and has joy in seeing the success in people being able to move on to more independent living. 

The Senior Manager Award

Winner: Suzy Clavery, Optimal Living Ltd

Nominated by her staff without her knowledge, she exemplifies the strong support and admiration she has earned from her team. Her passion and dedication, which she consistently demonstrated and promoted internally, make her the deserving candidate for the Operations Director role. A tough decision, but truly a worthwhile winner.

Highly Commended: Simon Barnes, Milewood

Simon was a close second, demonstrating clear passion and exemplary leadership. Once the changes he mentioned during the interview are implemented, I’m confident he will be a strong contender for an award next year.

The Learning Disability Nurse Award 
Winner: Adrian Anim, Cumbria Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust

Adrian’s passion and integrity were evident when he discussed his work. His collaborative approach and partnerships with colleagues are truly inspirational. He leverages his own experiences to offer hope and connect deeply with others on their individual journeys.

Highly Commended: Claire Donneley and Sue Sargeant, Tewv NHS Foundation Trust

Claire and Sue’s passion, enthusiasm, and dedication are truly infectious. They are educating professionals about the devastating effects of overprescribing, and by working within the STOMP framework, they are driving change among GPs, prescribers, and educational settings. They are advocates for the rights of individuals with learning disabilities.

The Making a Difference Award (Individual)

Winner: Alanna Alston, PBS Care

Alanna’s enthusiasm, passion, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those she supports shines through in the support she provides each and every day. Alanna has demonstrated that she embodies the essence of the “Making a Difference” award and what it means to make a lasting difference every day.

Highly Commended: Alex Roland, Love Community

Alex’s dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those he supports have made a significant impact. His consistent efforts and genuine care exemplify the spirit of the “Making a Difference” award. 

The Making a Difference Award (Team)

Winner: Chestnut House, Kidz inc

It was clear to see that the team at Chestnut House have helped children with Autism and complex needs. It was clear that the children are happier than ever, understanding what it means to be loved and forming healthy relationships. The team clearly expressed their love to them and are fostering their self-worth and aspirations for the future. The team’s dedication has made a lasting impact, instilling positive changes that will resonate with these children throughout their life.

Highly Commended: oVRcome Project Team, Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust

The team showcased their partnership and a commitment to inclusion, improving outcomes for individuals with learning disabilities (LD) and autism. Using VR exposure therapy, they reduced hospital visit anxiety. This innovative approach, involving community groups, embodies the spirit of the “Making a Difference” award, promoting inclusivity and enhancing patient experiences.

The Breaking Down Barriers Award (Individual)

Winner: Daniella Rubio, LDA Care

Wow, truly impressive. This person reaches out to the broader community, seizing opportunities to make significant and meaningful impacts on people’s lives while also raising enduring awareness in other communities and places. They give real meaning to the term “breaking down barriers.” Wow, just wow

Highly Commended: James Alexander John Punch, IBC Healthcare

A whirlwind, and a dedicated and insightful approach. Really “breaking down the barriers” come alive not only for the individuals’ using services but for the community and raised awareness,

The Breaking Down Barriers Award (Team)

Winner: Access All Areas

Access All Areas employs learning disabled and autistic individuals in TV and theatre. They provide training on accessibility and disability awareness to major UK companies, establishing industry standards. Their Transforming Leadership program and creative support team promote inclusive practices and are leading by example. Well done, keep up the good work.

Highly Commended: Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust Learning Disabilities and Autism Team

We know how challenging Emergency Departments can be for learning disabled and autistic individuals and the Emergency Department Care Bags clearly have improved the patients’ experiences. Keep breaking down the barriers and set examples that more trusts can follow.

The Supported Housing Award 

Winner: Team, Sanctuary Supported Living

We were impressed by the vision of the organisation and the passion for receiving and acting on genuine feedback. We were told about two groups of customers – experts by experience to challenge and confront issues faced and a Resident advisory panel – to look forward, seeking good practice, reviewing policies and processes and, most importantly, approving the company’s 5-year strategy. The team use a “friends and family test” to view of provision provided and made changes to ensure housing is in line with best practice and meeting the needs of its customers.

Highly Commended: Danielle Coward, Vision Day Care

Danielle shared an inspiring example of person-centred support. Her team acquired a property for four individuals who chose to live together, prioritising their preferences. They partnered with a local landlord experienced with learning disabilities, ensuring a supportive environment. Danielle’s commitment to empowering individuals’ choices in their living arrangements shone through the discussion.

The Sporting Chance Award

Winner: Scott Burns, Leigh Leopards Rugby Club

Scott’s unwavering commitment to sharing his love for rugby league is evident through his inclusive coaching style, fostering belonging and equality. His willingness to collaborate with other organisations sets a winning example. His work has significantly impacted lives, empowering individuals to excel in education and employment, making inclusive sports more than a trend.

Highly Commended: Adam Gosling, Portland College

Although Adam is very humble about his work the impact it has on the college and local community is clear. He transforms young people’s views on health by making it fun and fostering friendships. His efforts extend beyond the college, ensuring sports opportunities for all locals, and enhancing active lifestyles and social connections.

Highly Commended: Bailey Greetham-Clark, BeGreatFitness

His goal is to help vulnerable individuals access fitness when it seems unreachable. At BeGreatFitness, it is clear they strive to make fitness accessible for all by focusing on ability, cost, time, and location. They are creating safe spaces for everyone to improve their wellbeing through guided exercise.

The Great Autism Practice Award

Winner: Derbyshire Autism Service, Derbyshire Health Care Foundation Trust

This team is deeply committed to supporting individuals with autism in their community, prioritising efforts to prevent hospital admissions. Remarkably, they achieved a 94% reduction in admissions over the past year. Taking proactive steps, they assessed the skills of their clients across various services and successfully trained 18 individuals from other teams to conduct assessments, significantly cutting response times by half. Their profound impact on the community is nothing short of remarkable

Highly Commended: Daniel Jones, TAW Media

Daniel dedicates himself to advocating for people with Autism globally through his impactful social media presence. With daily content, online courses, a book, and blogs for all ages, he educates extensively. He advises companies worldwide on creating autism-friendly workplaces and accessibility. Daniel’s personal commitment includes responding to every contact, aiming to educate and promote inclusive environments for all.

The Positive Behaviour Support Award

Winner: Tamsin Gregory- Conquest, Kent Autistic Trust

With a steadfast commitment to respectful, person-centred care, they’ve revolutionised support for over 100 Autistic individuals. Their collective expertise has led to life-changing transformations, fostering inclusivity and reducing restrictive practices. Truly an exceptional winner that should be proud!

Highly Commended: Simon Hardwyke, Perthyn

With 25 years of experience, Perthyn excels in specialised support using a Positive Behaviour Support model. They have achieved significant reductions in restrictive practices and challenging behaviours. Notably, they eliminated physical interventions for a client. Perthyn’s person-centred, evidence-based approach. Keep working hard.

The Lord Rix Supporting Older People With Learning Disabilities Award 

Winner: Team Hillcrest, Discovery

Meeting the team and Pete was a delight; I could have spent the entire day in conversation with them! Their genuine care, compassion, and exceptional support for Pete made them stand out as clear winners in this category. The team’s dedication, hard work, and creativity in finding innovative solutions to fulfil the needs, wishes, and desires of those they support is truly inspiring. They go above and beyond, collaborating with the church, vicar, medical teams, and even a local decorator to make a positive impact.

Highly Commended: Veronica Harris, Certitude

Consistent, caring, and a tireless advocate, Veronica has passionately supported B for over 30 years. Her unwavering commitment to advocating for his needs and ensuring a safe, loving home is truly inspiring. Veronica has integrated her family into supporting B, fostering his acceptance within the community. She educates and raises awareness, striving to normalise and promote wider acceptance for B and all individuals with learning disabilities.

Supporting People With Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) Award

Winner: The Grafton Staff Team, Condover College

It was clear that staff use a holistic approach, tailoring individualised programs aligned with EHCP outcomes and personal aspirations. The enrichment activities in the community clearly help students explore interests and develop life skills. The staff are highly trained and support a sensory-rich curriculum to maximize learning and prepare students for success in life.

Highly Commended: Seeds Care Team

Seeds Care prioritises people at the core of our approach, using a highly personalised method to deliver care. There collaborative process with service users, families, and professionals ensures tailored care plans that evolve with individuals’ needs. Well done.

The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training Award 

Winner: Emma Murray, Daniel John and Adam Baker from Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care System

Emma, Daniel and Adam are champions for The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism and are shining examples of Oliver’s Training in action. They truly live the values of Oliver’s Training and are dedicated to making sure we all learn from the mistakes of the past and move forward. They are professional, dedicated and work as a team, with co-trainers supporting and encouraging each other. They are committed to delivering Oliver’s Training and leading positive change across health and social care in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICS.

Highly Commended: Team, Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training Team

Working across the system, this team is passionate about using The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training to change attitudes. They have delivered the Tier 2 1-day training to over 2000 staff and feedback shows staff are making changes and improving services for patients. The team is hosted by the primary care training hub and has supported primary care staff to overcome barriers to access the training. Their key successes are getting different professionals involved, supporting primary care training hubs in other systems to establish their rollout of Oliver’s Training and creating equal opportunities for all experts with lived experience to be involved.

Highly Commended: Training Team, Coventry and Warwickshire ICS

This team are determined to give autistic people and people with a learning disability opportunity to live happier, healthier lives. Through Oliver’s Training they are breaking down barriers and empowering staff to make practical changes, at the same time reducing employment inequalities as well as health inequalities. When recruiting their experts with lived experience they made reasonable adjustments to all aspects of recruitment. They have established a peer mentoring scheme to ensure that all their expert with lived experience co-trainers can thrive and feel comfortable within the team.

The People’s Award (Individual)

Winner: Jodie Bradley, Speakup Self Advocacy

In her impressive 17-year tenure at Speak Up Advocacy, Jodie has accomplished a wealth of achievements, from founding a social movement to facilitating employment opportunities and fulfilling dreams. Renowned as a remarkable advocate for individuals with learning disabilities, Jodie wields significant influence on a global scale, earning the title “The Master of Ceremonies.” Her impact is nothing short of extraordinary.

Highly Commended: Cameron Richards, Dudley Voices for Choice

Cameron is an exceptionally dedicated advocate, bringing passion and empathy to his support for others. His open personality, humour, and kindness resonate deeply, meeting people where they are and empowering them to achieve more. Through sharing his own experiences, Cameron compassionately fosters confidence in those he assists, making a significant impact in Dudley and beyond.

The People’s Award (Team)

Winner: Support Squad, Community Integrated Care 

Their pioneering work sets new standards in disability access and inclusion, endorsed by high-level government support. Their enthusiasm, passion, and commitment to making a difference shines through in the support they provide every day.  Amazing work.

Highly Commended: Kindness Crew, St Albans Community

The Kindness Crew volunteers at nursing homes to give back, combat loneliness, and boost mental health. Leading sing-alongs and dance sessions for dementia patients, they foster joy, stimulate memories, and promote physical activity. Their compassion and efforts significantly improve residents’ well-being and community engagement.

Highly Commended: The Team, The Autism Wellbeing Project

Established in July 2023, it has transformed lives by empowering autistic adults through inclusive, autism-led services. The project fosters connections, reduces isolation, and trains healthcare professionals, creating a ripple effect of positive change in just 6 months.

The Outstanding Contribution to Social Care Award 

Winner: Angela Novell, MK Snap

Angela embodies more than just a charity; it stands as a beacon of hope for 150 service users. Angela’s visionary leadership prioritizes the voices of those it serves, pioneering a groundbreaking reverse mentoring system. This innovative approach empowers service users to become mentors themselves, fostering a culture of mutual empowerment and continuous growth within the community. Angela’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment sets a powerful example, making a lasting impact on all who engage with its services.

Highly Commended: David Reid

David, the dynamic CEO of Birtenshaw, courageously navigated the company away from bankruptcy. His visionary leadership not only revitalised the organisation but also fostered the development of a strong senior management team, ensuring Birtenshaw’s long-term sustainability and success.

The Lifetime Achievement Award

Winner: Sarah Offley, Dudley Voices for Choice

Having worked in the care sector since leaving school, Sarah has dedicated her life to breaking down barriers to equality. Passionate about promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and fair treatment, she strives to enable people who draw on services to live Gloriously Ordinary lives. Since joining Dudley Voices for Choice in 2010, Sarah has advocated for people with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health issues. Her efforts include supporting individuals on strategic boards, championing accessible information, and leading an inclusive team. She developed the West Midlands Self Advocacy Network and facilitated the Positive Voices national conference. Sarah is a truly deserving winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award.