Support Worker shortlisted for two social care awards

As well as a support worker, Chris is a sociology PhD candidate at the University of Manchester, he is waiting to hear if he is to be named care newcomer and social care Covid hero of the year at the Great British Care Awards.

Chris first took up his support worker position in April, when the pandemic halted each of his four part time jobs.

The Cambridge graduate has been praised by his team at Manchester Supported Housing service in particular for helping them to update their computer systems, using his research and IT skills to set up a shared drive and ensure that all records were paperless. Chris took on this project alongside his day-to-day work supporting the service's vulnerable tenants.

Chris said: "I’ve had experience of working in pastoral roles before: I was the manager of Cambridge University’s student advice service after I finished my degree, and I work part time for The University of Manchester advice service. I’ve had both lived experience of mental health issues, and also provided informal support over the years to a few close friends who have struggled themselves.

"My own experience of getting support from support workers showed me how vital the work that organisations like Making Space do is at the best of time, let alone during a pandemic.

"I decided that I wanted to give something back, with the skills I had, to people who were vulnerable during this difficult time, so when I saw the support worker position advertised, I leapt at the opportunity."

Andy de Vares, regional head of operations, said: "Chris has shown a good understanding of his role and shows great empathy with the people who use our service.

"His willingness to learn new things and improve his understanding has been impressive, especially in the unusual circumstances in which he’s started his care work journey. Despite the challenges, Chris has fast become a valuable member of the team, settling in well and embodying the ethos of the service. We are all rooting for Chris to take home this award."

Chris was previously working as a teaching assistant in The University of Manchester sociology department, at The University’s student advice service, bar supervising at Manchester Academy and assisting at sexual health clinics for the LGBT Foundation.

Chris will find out if he has won in early 2021.