We are delighted to share that Cedar has been shortlisted as finalists in The National Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards 2023 in a phenomenal six nominations across five categories!

The awards represent all areas of care and support for people with learning disabilities and autism within the care sector throughout the UK, whether it be young or older people, supporting people in their own homes, the residential care sector, or the voluntary sectors. From frontline staff such as care workers and care managers to people who have made an impact in other ways such as training and innovation were widely recognised.

Eoin will be representing Cedar for the “Sporting Chance Award”. Eoin is a Team Leader, Positive Behaviour Support Coach, and a champion of sports within The Mews Supported Living service. He promotes the ethos of sport and spirit within his role. He actively supports service users to participate in some sport or exercise tailored to their capabilities, likes and dislikes.

Croft Communities is nominated for the “Making a Difference Award” and Nicola will be representing the team at the event. Croft supports Adult’s with learning disabilities to live, integrate and work in the local community through their Residential, Supported Living, Respite and Day Services. Croft have ensured the ethos of home for life has been maintained, adapting the care provision to meet individual needs.

Chelsea Registered Manager of The Mews will be representing team for the “Positive Behaviour Support Award”. The Mews adheres to a person-centred framework whilst implementing a Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) approach for providing long term support to people with a learning disability, and/or autism, including those with mental health conditions and complex needs.

Chelsea will also be there in her own capacity for the “Frontline Leader Award”. Chelsea led frontline staff at The Mews with demonstrable strength and resilience during the Covid19 pandemic. This is proven by how she developed and coached her staff, showed initiative, and her commitment to ensure individuals were supported as safe as possible in their homes and within the community.

Team Leaders at Cedar’s West Belfast Living Options worked tirelessly to promote inclusion and community cohesion for tenants during and after the pandemic. They were instrumental in identifying and promoting community inclusion, access, and involvement in their community during the pandemic and in recognition of the long-term effects it was having on service users. They have been nominated for the “Making a difference Award”.

Finally, Heather Karuna Home manager will be present on behalf of the team who have been nominated for the “Making A Difference Award”. Karuna provides Residential Care for up to ten adults with learning disabilities and associated conditions. During the Covid 19 Pandemic, staff went above and beyond to prevent Covid 19 entering the Residential Service and managed to do this for over two years. The staff provided additional and instrumental support and care for residents to prevent isolation.

The event will take place at Hilton Hotel on the 9th of March and we wish all the nominees the best of luck. We are delighted that our staff and staff teams have been shortlisted on account of their efforts – well done!