National Learning Disabilities & Autism Awards Winners!

Congratulations to Tom & Cheryl!

Tom won Manager of the Year, and Cheryl won Support Worker of the Year at this year’s National Learning Disabilities & Autism Awards 2023!

Tom has been recognised for moving us from a paper-based to a digital system onsite (Nourish), creating teams and staff progression routes, and creating a solid future for the organisation. 

Tom said, “The event was huge and recognised the amazing work done by people nationwide for adults with autism and learning disabilities. I’m pleased that we were one of a few tables represented by the people we support and our staff.”

“I still find it quite amazing, given the calibre of the managers I was up against – it’s a recognition I’m delighted to receive but keen to dedicate to each and every one of our staff and residents who makes Camphill what it is and make it such a warm and wonderful environment that gives me so much to be able to showcase.”

Cheryl’s praise is for her person-centred approach; she has become so central within the community, which includes setting up the running group and boxercise. 

Cheryl said, “I am very proud and humbled by the award. I couldn’t do what I do without my amazing team in Willow Wood, the support of my fantastic running crew and obviously the management team who encourage and push me out of my comfort zone regularly. 

I absolutely love my job at Camphill and consider myself completely blessed to work with such a unique and inspiring team of people. 

Seeing the residents overcome daily challenges and find their inner superheroes is nothing short of a daily miracle.”

Camphill MK was a finalist in two other categories: ‘Employer of the Year’ and ‘Positive Risk Taking’. Well done to everyone who contributes to this community, which has led to us being recognised in this way!

Tom & Cheryl were joined at the prestigious awards ceremony by team members and two of our residents – Steve and Travis, who can very well represent our work as an organisation to change lives. The evening recognised many amazing organisations who are commited to changing people’s lives.

The evening was a blast and we were treated to a video of residents all over the country dancing (including cameos from Rach, Jestina, Edith, Alison Bush and Trina), a performance from a Freddy Mercury tribute and a Down Syndrome dance troupe.

Tom explained the considerable significance of the awards, “these are National Awards attended by BIG charities and private providers who employ and support thousands of people. So, for a small local charity like Camphill MK to have been nominated in any category is really significant. For Cheryl’s category, “Support Worker of the Year”, when you consider how many support workers are employed across the country, we were super proud of Cheryl for just being on the list BUT… she won!!”

What an amazing team!

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