Support Worker makes 2020 Happy List!
We are delighted to announce that Tony Beard, team leader at Devonshire Road and our very own resident Elvis, has been named number 38 in the 2020 The Independent Happy List: Heroes In A Crisis.
Tony, has been donning his full Elvis gear and singing live – over the internet- to raise morale among tenants and staff at a supported housing service.
Concerts by the team leader also had the potential to reach all 16,000 people supported by the Making Space when he performed via their Facebook page.
The annual Happy List was first published by the Independent in 2008, as an antidote to the Sunday Times Rich List. It celebrates people for their contribution to society rather than their material wealth. This year’s focus was on people who made a difference during COVID-19.
Tony joined Devonshire Road supported housing in Toxteth in April 2019 and became team leader last October. The service supports 13 adults living with mental health conditions to live independently.
As ‘Tony Elvis’ he has performed in pubs, care homes, social clubs and competitions around the country since 2012, finally becoming a professional tribute act three years ago.
Tony, whose favourite Elvis song is If I Can Dream, said: “I’m pretty overwhelmed by my inclusion on the Happy List. It’s just what I do, try to make people happy and make a difference every day.”
Kim Smith, Regional Head of Operations, said: “When Tony isn’t shaking things up, he has been encouraging residents to use the outside space for activities. He has the compassion and dedication to pull everyone together to get through these challenging times.”
Tony has so far raised £80 through his live shows and is putting the money towards a new music room for Devonshire Road tenants. He has also purchased a hand blender so tenants can make healthy soup.
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