The National Learning Disability and Autism Awards celebrates individuals, teams and businesses across the UK who are providing excellent support for people with learning disabilities and autism.

The England and Scotland Finals took place at The International Convention Centre (ICC) in Birmingham on Friday 8 July.

There were a total of 17 awards up for grabs. The different categories covered all areas of support, from housing and employment to one-to-one support and advocacy work. Shortlisted nominees ranged from frontline staff to care managers.

Commendation for our Covid Heroes

In attendance from United Response Richmond and Kingston were Michael Condon, Matt Campbell, Nora Kerezovic, Tim Mitford, Dan Bell, Maame Ankomah and Sam, who we support.

Our Richmond team were shortlisted once for The Making a Difference Award and twice for the The Social Care Covid Hero Awards – both The Enterprise as a team and Matt Campbell as an individual.

Everyone donned their glad rags, enjoying a delicious three course meal and live performances from Britain’s Got Talent stars Born To Perform, a Michael Bublé impersonator and a live band.

Matt said:

Events like these are so important as it highlights the behind the scenes work that goes in to what we do and showcases the impact we have on the lives of people we support who attend our sessions.

It’s not only important for all the nominees but it shows people we support that if you work hard, you will be recognised for it.

The team received ‘Highly Commended’ for The Social Care Covid Hero Team Award, intended for someone “who has gone above and beyond during the Covid-19 crisis.”

Their nomination highlighted the team’s dedication to making sure people we support stayed connected during the pandemic, offering an exciting programme of online activities every week including a special Christmas Day party, where everyone was delivered a festive goody bag ahead of the big day.

Nora said:

It’s good for a whole host of reasons but the most important one is the people we support – the delight and pride they expressed when they heard the news was beautiful.

They are very proud of the team, the support they receive for the activities and themselves. The Enterprise is theirs – full of their talent, character and fun.

The Highly Commended award is a nod of approval and pat on the back for everything The Enterprise does and stands for – inclusion, integrity, growth, development, connection, friendships and fun.

We cannot forget fun!

Tim added:

Awards like these are important so that the teams and companies feel that there is a sense of morale within the social care sector.

It’s like a learning curve – learning from the winners and what they did to achieve the award.

Awards happen all over the world but the best award is an accolade from your peers, highlighting how hard you have worked to make other lives better.

Pictured from left: Matt, Nora, Sam and Maame

Area Manager Michael said:

I am immensely proud of the Richmond and Kingston Enterprise team.

To reach the National Finals and to achieve “Highly Commended” highlights that we are nationally recognised for the outstanding work we do within the community.

We have now have the added confidence to take our vision for the Enterprise to the next level.

Find out more about our Richmond support services
  • Jenna Lloyd is Digital Content Officer for United Response.