Two Hunslet care workers are celebrating after scooping the Newcomer of the Year and Outstanding Contribution trophies at the Making Space Colleague Awards.
Team leader Debra Hanrahan and support worker Naveed Mughal work with tenants at the Waterhouse Court supported housing scheme on Joseph Street. Naveed, who joined the support team in June last year, was named Newcomer of the Year, while Debra was given the award for Outstanding Contribution.
The awards are held by the national adult health and social care charity to recognise and pay tribute to individuals and teams who inspire others, go above and beyond expectations and make a real difference to the lives of the people supported by Making Space.
Debra and Naveed were presented with their trophies at a ceremony held at the Hilton Hotel in Liverpool, with a keynote speech by motivational speaker and leadership expert Gavin Ingham.
The judges said Naveed had made an instant positive impact with his friendly manners and easy-going outlook, while Debra was singled out for her enthusiasm, values and helping people to reach their full potential.
“Debra believes in every person she supports, even when they don’t believe in themselves,” said service manager Sajeed Daji, who nominated the pair for the awards. “She makes sure every voice counts and helps people to work through problems to reach their goals.
“Naveed is flexible, happy to work at short notice and always has a smile and a pair of helping hands. He encourages people to take pride in their appearance and helps them to make positive lifestyle choices to improve their wellbeing.”
Team leader Debra said: “Working for Making Space has given me the opportunities to work alongside some wonderful people and develop within my role. Winning this award is very special to me and I intend to continue putting our tenants at the heart of my work and hopefully improve their lives even in the slightest of ways.”
Support worker Naveed said: “I’m really pleased to win the Making Space Newcomer Award for 2023. Having the passion and can-do attitude to strive better for myself and for my tenants at Waterhouse Court pays off in lots of ways! I’m sure there are many more positive moments to come and exciting events to accomplish.”
Alison Everett, area manager for Skills for Care, and Making Space trustee Katharine Wykes judged the awards.
“Debra’s enthusiasm for her role and for the people she supports is immediate apparent,” they said. “Her goal is for everyone around her, including her colleagues, to reach their full potential. Her values align completely with those of Making Space.”
Naveed, they said, impressed with his “sheer enthusiasm.”
“He has demonstrated innovative thinking in his work and an eagerness to improve himself through learning and development,” they added.
Debra and Naveed were among over 150 people who were nominated for the awards, which were sponsored by telecommunications provider Focus Group. The Outstanding Contribution award was sponsored by Hempson’s solicitors.
