A Wigan care worker has received national recognition for helping people live fuller lives
An activities co-ordinator from Wigan has won a top honour for helping people build confidence, independence and lasting community connections.
Joanne Lee, who works at Kingshill Residential in Standish, received the Community Integration Award at the national social care charity Making Space’s Colleague Awards.
With more than 1,000 colleagues and 100 volunteers across the organisation, this year's awards attracted more than 250 nominations, celebrating the individuals and teams who go above and beyond to make a positive difference to the lives of the people they support.
Joanne was recognised for building strong community connections that empower people to live fuller, more independent lives, creating opportunities for inclusion, friendship and belonging both within Kingshill and across the local community.
Kingshill Residential supports adults with enduring mental health conditions, learning disabilities and autism.
Through Joanne's creativity, compassion and dedication, she has transformed opportunities for the people who live there, helping them build confidence while becoming active members of their local community.
From organising trips to local cafés, farms, festivals, gyms and community events, to arranging inclusive social evenings with local musicians and creating new opportunities for people to explore their interests, Joanne is passionate about ensuring everyone can enjoy meaningful experiences and develop greater independence.
She has also built strong links with local organisations, including neighbouring residential communities, helping to create lasting friendships and break down barriers around mental health and disability.
Alongside this, Joanne has organised fundraising activities to create even more opportunities for the people Kingshill supports.
Joanne said: "I was honestly so shocked when they called my name out – I really wasn't expecting it.
"To be recognised by the people you work alongside every day means so much.
"I absolutely love my job and feel very lucky to support such amazing people.
"I'm incredibly proud that my colleagues thought enough of me to nominate me, and winning the award was a moment I'll never forget."
Colette Presho, registered service manager at Kingshill Residential, said: "I am incredibly proud of Joanne for winning the Community Integration Award.
"This achievement is a true reflection of her dedication, compassion and commitment to helping others build meaningful connections within their community.
"Joanne consistently goes above and beyond to promote inclusion, independence and opportunities for the people she supports. Her passion, creativity and person-centred approach make a real difference every day. This award is thoroughly deserved, and I am delighted to see her hard work and positive impact recognised.
"Congratulations, Joanne – a fantastic achievement and one that everyone at Kingshill can be proud of."
Phil Orton, deputy CEO at Making Space, said: "Joanne has an incredible ability to bring people together and create opportunities that enrich lives.
"Through her creativity, enthusiasm and commitment to person-centred support, she has helped people build confidence, independence and meaningful connections within their local community. We are delighted to see her recognised with this well-deserved award."
The awards ceremony, at the Queen’s Hotel in Leeds, brought together finalists, colleagues, volunteers, sponsors and guests from across the organisation to celebrate excellence in social care.
The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of headline sponsor Ad Alta Consulting.