Elizabeth Ughu, who works at the high dependency complex care service for men in Knee Hill Road, Abbey Wood has been nominated for the Manager Award for her “exemplary work and dedication”.
The National Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards were set up to celebrate people who provide excellent care and support to people with learning disabilities and autism. Shortlisted nominees are invited to attend an interview with an independent panel of judges, before attending a gala event later this month when the winners will be announced.
Elizabeth joined Cygnet Bostall House, which cares for men with a learning disability and associated complex needs, in 2015 and has 15 years’ experience working in Adults and Children’s Health and Social Care Services.
Elizabeth said: “When my daughter was in hospital, I noticed that there was no support network for families whose lives had been turned upside down. This experience motivated me to get my nursing qualification and help people who were in the same situation.”
She now encourages others to consider a career in the care sector, and believes it’s crucial to establish a level of trust, transparency and openness among staff “It is a really rewarding profession as you get a real sense of satisfaction when you are able to make a difference in people’s lives. You are able to see the joy that your work brings.”
Elizabeth was nominated for this award by staff members at Cygnet Bostall House. “I was very happy and excited when I found out I had been nominated. It came as a shock because I didn’t know they had put my name forward,” said Elizabeth.
She added: “I try to provide support and encouragement to everyone so they know that they can get through even the most challenging days.”
Describing the past year working through the pandemic, Elizabeth added: “My amazing team and everyone who live at Bostall House really pulled together to keep us all safe.”
The National Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards will take place in three regions across October 2021. The England and Scotland awards gala will take place at the ICC in Birmingham on 29th October. More information about the awards can be found here.