Patricia Whitely named as Volunteer of the Year Award winner!
Patricia Whitely, who helps to support people with dementia and long-term health conditions at Sandalwood social centre, was one of over 150 people nominated for our Making Space Colleague Awards. She took home the trophy after judges praised her person-centred approach to volunteering.
Patricia was presented with her award at a ceremony held at the Hilton Hotel in Liverpool, with a keynote speech by motivational speaker and leadership expert Gavin Ingham. The audience heard how she helped people to develop new skills and was a source of comfort during emotional times.
“Patricia first came to our groups with her brother, who she cares for full time,” said team leader Janet Griffiths, who nominated Julie for the award. “She fell in love with the centre because of its homely and friendly atmosphere, so started volunteering at the groups she was attending.
“She’s an amazing volunteer. She’s introduced new activities and physical exercises, helps to serve meals and assist with eating and often takes the lead on sessions. As well as motivating people to learn new skills, she provides one-to-one comfort when people become distressed.”
“It was a prestigious event at the Hilton in Liverpool and I felt highly honoured to receive the Volunteer of the Year Award on behalf of Making Space,” said Patricia. “I started to volunteer at Sandalwood Day Centre when my brother first attended the centre and my initial reaction was how it was a loving and caring atmosphere and immediately I wanted to be part of the family. I feel it is very beneficial to my wellbeing and the love and support not only to me but to my brother as well.”
Emily Blackburn, operations coordinator at Paragon Skills, and Making Space Chief People Officer Phil Orton judged the Volunteer of the Year award. They selected Patricia because “her volunteering has an impact, not only for colleagues and people who use the service but also for herself.”
“Patricia is very person-centred and clearly enjoys what she does,” they added.
The Making Space Colleague Awards 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 the charity.
The awards were sponsored by telecommunications provider Focus Group. The Volunteer of the Year award was sponsored by Allied Insurance.
If you found this page useful, please share and help others find it
