Helena Aiken (Children with Disabilities Award) and Sarah Hodgson (Support Worker Award) have been recognised for their achievements

Two Westmorland and Furness Council support workers have been recognised for their achievements at a national awards ceremony in Birmingham.

The National Children and Young People Awards took place on Saturday 21 October, and celebrated excellence in care for children, young people, and families, showcase innovation and best practice, and paid tribute to those individuals or organisations who excel in quality care provision.

The awards represented all areas of social care from the independent and voluntary sectors: residential, home care, housing with care, learning disabilities & autism services, children & young people services and suppliers of products and services to the sector.

Helena Aiken (Children with Disabilities Award) and Sarah Hodgson (Support Worker Award) were both nominated for awards for the excellent work they do for children and young people in Westmorland and Furness – with Helena being Highly Commended for her efforts.

The Support Worker Award recognises the crucial role of the support worker in providing high quality care and support for children, young people, and families and the person who nominated Sarah, said:

‘I can’t thank them enough for the miracles they have somehow worked on two tasks with our child that we really struggle with – so I was delighted when they managed to achieve even one of those objectives, let alone both. And all with a kindness and calm, lovely approach.  I hope you know what wonderful people you have working with you!’

The Children with Disabilities Award recognises excellence in service provision to children with disabilities and their families. Nominees showed how they go the extra mile in promoting the ability of children with disabilities, along with amazing inter-agency working across health, social care, and education, providing a truly child centred service.

Helena said:

‘As a Residential Support worker, in a Short Breaks Respite Home for children with Learning Disabilities, I’m honoured to share my days with the most inspirational and magical children. Yes, I work in a house, but it’s a home the second a child comes through that front door!

Every child deserves to be understood, heard, appreciated, and offered opportunities to thrive, make memories and live to the fullest. As do their families:  the support and care doesn’t stop with the children. If I can make a difference to a parent, or a sibling, that respite stay has been truly worthwhile.’

Cllr Sue Sanderson, Cabinet Member for Children’s services, Education and Skills, said:

“Sarah and Helena have displayed high levels of dedication, commitment and care to the children and families we support. They have both stepped up to help with tasks above and beyond, and have a positive, can-do attitude. They continue to make huge difference to people’s lives, and we are grateful and very proud to have them and their colleagues, working for us in Westmorland and Furness Council.”

Milorad Vasic, Director of Children’s Services added:

“These Awards give important recognition to the hard work all our staff put in to make a difference to young people and their families, and my thanks go out to Sarah and Helena for going above and beyond in their dedication and commitment.”