A Wisbech woman has been shortlisted, among 19 others, for a national award that recognises the work of employees in the housing and care sector.
Helen Donald is the manager of Wisbech Foyer – part of the Longhurst group – a company that provides accommodation for up to 17 young people aged between 16 and 25 in the town.
The 26-year-old, nominated for the 2018 Young Leaders Award which is run by 24housing magazine, works with a specialist team that helps residents develop independent living skills, provides support and access to education and employment.
Helen said: “I was really surprised to hear that I had been nominated for the award and I am absolutely delighted to receive that kind of recognition from Longhurst Group.
“I am very proud as the team and I have worked really hard over the past 10 months to make some real improvements to the service and the lives of the young people living at the Foyer.
Despite having only worked for Longhurst Group for under a year, Helen has completely turned the Wisbech Foyer around, helping 15 out of 17 residents into education, training or employment, ensuring all residents are in credit with their rent accounts and securing over £6,000 of funding for sports activities at the Foyer.
Helen added: “I’d like to thank my manager for nominating me, my team at Wisbech for supporting me on a daily basis and for always being on hand to offer help or advice.”
A vote will decide who makes the final three and go on to speak in front of an expert panel at the National Housing Federation Headquarters in London later this year, where the winner will be decided.
Louise Platt, Longhurst Group’s executive director care and business partnerships, said: “We’re delighted to hear that Helen has been shortlisted for this fantastic award.
“It is a ringing endorsement of the fantastic achievements that she has already realised in her short time as service manager at Wisbech Foyer.
“The Foyer improves the lives of the young people who live there, ensuring they have all the tools and support they need to take the next step towards independence.
“We are very proud of the service and Helen’s superb leadership of it. On behalf of everyone at Longhurst Group, I wish her the very best of luck.”
To vote for Helen, visit: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Q7B2PNC
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