Bradford Care Leader Honoured With National Award For Exceptional Leadership

A Bradford care home manager has been recognised on the national stage for her outstanding leadership and compassion in supporting people with learning disabilities and autism.

Mariam Javed, Service Manager at Thornfield House, part of Cygnet Social Care, has won the Executive Learning Disabilities and Autism Leader category at the prestigious Social Care Leadership Awards 2025.

Judges praised Mariam for her “exceptional dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of those in her care,” highlighting that she “consistently prioritises service users, advocates tirelessly for their needs, ensures appropriate medical support, guides external professionals, supports families, and leads her team with compassion and resilience – all while managing her own health challenges.”

The awards ceremony, held on 21 October at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, celebrated inspiring leaders from across the social care sector. The Executive Learning Disabilities and Autism Leader Award recognises those who demonstrate outstanding leadership, management, and person-centred practice in learning disability and autism services.

Reflecting on her award, Mariam said:
“This award truly means so much to me, and I feel incredibly honoured and humbled to receive it. However, this recognition isn’t just about me, it represents the dedication, compassion, and hard work of the amazing team I have the privilege to work alongside every single day, as well as all the remarkable teams across social care who make a difference in people’s lives.

“I’m so proud to be part of a profession that changes lives in ways both big and small. Every day brings new challenges, but also new rewards, seeing our residents, their families, and our team members grow, smile, and thrive is what inspires me to keep going.

“I love my job because it’s more than just a role, it’s a purpose. Knowing that together we can make a genuine difference to someone’s quality of life is what makes this work so meaningful.”

Gareth Williams, CEO of Cygnet Social Care said:
“We are incredibly proud of Mariam. Her commitment to person-centred care and her ability to lead with empathy, professionalism and resilience make her a truly deserving winner. This recognition is a testament to her leadership and to the positive difference she and her team make every day.”