National recognition for support workers
People helping the homeless and vulnerable have been shortlisted for a national award.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council’s ‘vulnerability and housing team’ is on the final list for the small team of the year award in a competition organised by the Local Government Chronicle (LGC).
Staff, based at Castle House, work one-to-one with vulnerable residents and resolve problems with other agencies where needed.
Gill Heesom, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council's Cabinet member for Community Safety and Wellbeing, said:
Staff do excellent work for the community, far from the spotlight, so I’m delighted they have been shortlisted for this award.
Their work makes a big difference to those involved. By identifying the issues and working through the obstacles we have had some real successes which has enabled people to get on with living safer, healthier lives.”
Cllr Heesom added:
Other agencies come to our team when a case doesn’t quite tick a box for statutory intervention, or when a person won’t engage, but we know they are extremely vulnerable and at risk.
Cases are often complex and can include issues of hoarding, debt, mental health, domestic abuse, self-neglect or safeguarding and we do what we can to help.”
The borough council also works to reduce and prevent rough sleeping, particularly through the development of a multi-agency hub, which offers users information, advice and practical support including haircuts and access to showers.
As well as different agencies using the hub to bring services to users, visitors can obtain food, warmth and someone to speak to, as well as help and advice.
Cllr Heesom said:
It is one thing to put a service in place, but it’s the quality and enthusiasm of the people there who make it exceptional.
We can have between 20-to-30 visitors who come for food and company and the team helps each person individually to make sure they have the appropriate support.”
The competition winners will be announced in the summer.
Speaking about the standard of the shortlisted entries, LGC Editor Sarah Calkin said:
This shows that despite the challenging circumstances facing councils up and down the country, there is plenty of excellent work taking place by dedicated staff who are committed to their communities.”