Support worker shortlisted for national housing care award in recognition for her work with carers across West Cheshire

Winners will be announced at a ceremony at the London Marriott Hotel on Grosvenor Square on 9 June.

“My delight in being nominated for this award is to bring to attention to and acknowledge the hard work of the ‘forgotten carers’,” says Yvonne. “The aging generation of parents and carers whose commitment to their loved ones is the truest meaning of unconditional love.”

Yvonne joined Making Space in 2018. She specialises in supporting older people (aged between 65 to 92) who care for their adult children with learning disabilities and autism.

Yvonne was nominated for the award by Cath Magee, Regional Head of Operations. She says Yvonne is passionate about supporting the older carers she works with, many of whom are frail and have their own long-term health problems.

“Yvonne sees it as a privilege to be welcomed into their homes. She knows the struggles and hardships many of them have endured over decades, caring for their children who are now adults. They tell her of their relationship difficulties, financial hardships, social isolation and how their whole life plan changed when they realised their child had additional needs.

“She knows that if it wasn’t for these carers, many of the adults they care for would not be living at home, where they want to be. Yet these are the same people who neglect themselves when it comes to regular health checks and attending planned hospital appointments.

“Yvonne makes regular welfare visits and calls, supports with appointments, provides a steady flow of information and advice and helps carers to be more connected with activities and people in their communities.

“She is determined that these carers feel valued and are recognised, and we think Yvonne should be valued and recognised too.”