A local man has been recognised by one of the UK’s largest providers of new homes and supported housing in its annual customer awards celebrations. Wayne Hartshorn of Newton Aycliffe has been awarded a Home Group ‘Special Recognition Award’ for his contribution to the local community. Wayne is a volunteer and a carer who has supported Home Group colleagues to achieve a Quality Innovation Standard for their work with carers.
He has also demonstrated commitment, energy and enthusiasm by getting involved in developing a weekly National Award for Aycliffe Volunteer programme of activities at the organisation’s Bluebell Hub service, which he promotes in a variety of ways throughout the local community. Judges were particularly impressed with his fundraising ideas and efforts that resulted in over £400 being raised to support those affected by the Cumbrian floods in late 2015. He has also organised events in support of World Mental Health Day and the air ambulance service. Wayne also helps out on one of Home Group’s reception desks, supporting with administration queries and is recognised as being a great asset to the Bluebell Hub service as well as the wider community.
Home Group, a national charity and social enterprise, runs the awards every year to recognise and thank customers (people who live in the Group’s homes or access its services) for their achievements, hard work and success. This year, over 100 nominations were received from colleagues across the country creating a difficult challenge for the judging panel. Mark Henderson, chief executive, Home Group said: “We hold these awards each year to say a massive thank you to customers who achieve their aspirations and inspire others through their personal achievements.
“This year we’ve seen a wide range of nominations recognising people for their hard work – from making a significant contribution to their local community, to campaigning against mental health stigma and supporting others. We are immensely proud of all of our awardwinners and nominees and look forward to hearing more of their success stories next year.”
