Support Worker Journey Praised at Stoke-on-Trent Support Service

A STOKE-ON-TRENT-based support worker has undergone a remarkable journey to win a special ‘Highly Commended’ award at National Care Group’s Annual Awards.

Returning in-person for 2022, 150 colleagues from across the country gathered to celebrate and reflect on the past year in care, with senior management setting out their vision for the leading support provider over the next few years.

Daniella Gilbert, who is part of the Day Services team at Shelton Care, was commended in the ‘Newcomer of the Year’ category, following her incredible journey from an individual supported by National Care Group to a part-time support worker with the company. Diagnosed with autism, Daniella has been able to successfully gain new skills and independence to earn her current role at the company, after living in its residential services for seven years.

Daniella said: “I’m really pleased to win this award, which wouldn’t be possible without the help of all my friends and colleagues that I work with. I’m really grateful for all the support they have given me over the years, and feel incredibly proud to be now giving back and supporting other people to achieve their dreams.”

Elsewhere, Stacey Bennett, part of the Oak House team at Shelton Care, was praised for her passion in helping supported individuals lead happy and healthy lives through food. Taking home ‘The Master Cook’ award, she was nominated by her colleagues for being creative with everyday meal planning at Oak House, and for also playing a central role in catering for its special events.

Stacey said: “I’m delighted to receive an award that plays such an integral role in the lives of the people we support. While day-to-day support, quite rightly, takes precedence in terms of spotlighting our roles, it should never be underestimated the joy food can bring to the lives of the individuals we support, both from a skills and nutritional point of view. I’d like to thank everyone that I work with that helps to deliver such a quality service all year-round.”