An inspirational care worker and a team who help people with mental health difficulties have made it onto the shortlist for a prestigious set of awards.
Brian Foster, a manager for learning disability day services at Durham County Council, has been nominated for the Dignity in Care honour at the Great North East Care Awards.
The authority’s Community Floating Support team has also been shortlisted for the Home Care Team Award.
Lesley Jeavons, Durham County Council’s head of adult care, said: “The awards celebrate excellence across the care sector, both regionally and nationally, with local winners going on to the national awards.
“They promote best practice and acknowledge the contribution of individuals and teams who have demonstrated excellence within their field and I am delighted that our staff have been shortlisted in two categories.”
Brian has worked in Durham since the 1980s and at the county council for 17 years, supporting adults with learning disabilities. His desire to help others inspired a training programme which aims to improve the understanding of dignity in care.
As change/locality manager within learning disability day services, Brian’s commitment has helped ensure that service users are respected and treated with dignity.
The Community Floating Support service is provided by a hardworking, flexible, innovative and supportive team of eight staff who make a positive difference to the wellbeing and recovery of people experiencing severe mental health issues.
Team members are highly motivated and passionate about helping the people they work with feel valued in their community.
The winners of the awards will be announced on Saturday, 24 November and will then compete against other regional finalists at the national awards in 2013.
