2026 Accolades

The Accolades are awards that recognise, celebrate and share notable work in social care, social work and childcare, play and early years in Wales.

The awards recognise the work of groups, teams and organisations, as well as workers from across the public, private, voluntary and co-operative sectors in Wales.

11 projects and eight care workers have been chosen as finalists by our judging panels for the 2026 Accolades across seven categories.

Building bright futures for children and families

Bridgend Children and Family Support Service

Bridgend County Borough Council’s Children and Family Support Service works to keep children safe, strengthen families and prevent children from going into care unnecessarily.

The service is an integrated system made up of distinct but connected teams that respond to different needs and risks. This joined-up, multi-agency approach means support is continuous and easily accessible. Families don’t need repeated referrals to access support from different teams, and don’t need to repeat their story as they move through the system. Last year, 92 per cent of the families supported by the service were prevented from entering care. The service has created a strong, preventative system that builds resilience and helps families thrive.

KIDCARE4U Saturday Club

KIDCARE4U Saturday Club is a community-led initiative that supports over 185 children and young people in one of Newport’s most diverse and economically underprivileged areas. Children can get help with homework, complete the Duke of Edinburgh Award, access counselling and take part in activities like swimming and baking.

Parents also benefit from the service and can access support to learn English and IT skills. The staff, who reflect the diverse community, build relationships based on trust and cultural understanding.

By building strong partnerships with local businesses, the club has created opportunities for apprenticeships and employment for the young people who attend, making meaningful and lasting change in the community.

Step up Step Down Pembrokeshire

Step Up Step Down Pembrokeshire is a project that supports families on the edge of care. It’s delivered by The Fostering Network in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council.

The project uses specially trained foster carers who provide intensive, relationship-based support to families. Instead of taking children into long-term foster care, these foster carers provide hands-on support to the whole family, working with parents, children and professionals to safely keep families together.

Support includes planned, short breaks for children, mentoring for parents and crisis intervention. Support increases when families are under pressure and reduces as families build confidence and resilience. Since the programme began in February 2024, it’s supported 47 children. Of these, 46 children have safely remained with their families.

Effective use of digital and technology

Insight App, Innovate Trust in Cardiff

Insight App is a free, bilingual digital community platform designed for and co-produced with adults with learning disabilities.

Answering a need for digital inclusivity, the app gives adults with learning disabilities the opportunity to connect, share experiences and grow independence in a safer digital environment. It's a kinder space than mainstream social media and gives people across Wales, who’d otherwise never have met, the chance to connect. Through the app, members can sign up for weekly online and in-person activities to practise skills and gain confidence. Activities include creative workshops, sporting events and discussion groups.

The app’s latest feature, Volunteering Hub, matches members to accessible volunteering opportunities. By encouraging members to grow their confidence online, they gain confidence in other parts of their lives.

Magic Notes, Neath Port Talbot Council

Magic Notes is an AI-powered tool that records, transcribes and summarises conversations. It’s used across Neath Port Talbot council to help staff create accurate, high-quality records of meetings, supervisions and assessments. Not only is it helping staff reduce their administrative workload, it also means practitioners can give people using care and support their full attention during meetings as they don’t have to worry about taking detailed notes.

Magic Notes’ summaries are reviewed before being uploaded to the council’s case management system and the direct quotes it collects from people using services support strengths-based, person-centred care. Practitioners have reported a 58 per cent reduction in time spent on administrative work, which has helped improve their well-being.

"Seeing is Believing", Anglesey County Council

Anglesey County Council’s “Seeing is Believing” project uses virtual reality (VR) headsets to help young people, families and professionals understand how trauma and early childhood experiences affect behaviour. The project is responding to increasing demand on local services from individuals with complex needs who need specialist support.

Using local data, the VR content, which is available in Welsh and English, covers topics including adverse childhood experiences, adoption, child sexual exploitation, knife crime, autism awareness and domestic violence.

Across Anglesey’s public and third sector, it's used to train professionals in responding therapeutically to trauma-related behaviour. While in schools and youth clubs, it’s used to encourage personal growth and reflection in young people.

Innovative ways of recruiting and retaining the workforce

Right at Home Cardiff and Newport

Right at Home Cardiff and Newport provides care and support to people living at home. To support recruitment, the organisation has developed strong partnerships with local colleges and universities, offering work experience to students who are interested in working in the sector.

Dedicated, personalised support from the organisation’s Mental Health Lead and Recruitment and Retention Coordinator has helped build an 85 per cent staff retention rate. Staff are encouraged to share concerns and ideas and are given lots of opportunities to complete extra training and qualifications, with additional workshops for staff supporting people with complex needs. An internal awards ceremony recognises staff’s hard work, and office coffee mornings and well-being activities keep staff engagement high.

Torfaen Play Service

This project offers inclusive, high-quality play provision and respite services for children and young people in Torfaen.

To build a strong and sustainable workforce, Torfaen Play Service recruits volunteers from the local community, reaching out through schools, colleges and social media. And to make sure the application process is accessible to everyone, it offers hands-on support with completing applications, DBS checks and references.

Lots of volunteers have returned after using the service as children, inspired by their positive experiences. Volunteers can start in seasonal, supported roles from 14 years old and work their way up to paid positions and apprenticeships by the time they turn 18. Thirty per cent of volunteers stay beyond these seasonal positions. With lots of support to build skills and complete qualifications, the project gives its volunteers a clear career pathway, supporting staff retention.

Inspirational leadership award

Melvin Jones, Service Manager, Regulated Services for Children at Flintshire County Council

Gareth, or Mel, as he’s also known, was nominated by Abigail Pattullo, Registered Residential Children’s Home Manager at Flintshire County Council.

Mel has transformed Flintshire County Council’s approach to residential children’s homes by developing an in-house residential provision for the community’s most vulnerable children.

This means children who are looked after don’t need to move away and can stay in their community.

Mel’s strategic vision is rooted in practical, compassionate leadership. In building a supportive environment for children and young people, Mel started with his team.

Abigail describes Mel as “a leader who listens, includes and empowers – someone who always brings out the best in people.”

Another staff member says: “Melvin has an exceptional ability to see potential in people before they see it in themselves.”

The children and young people who use the service experience the same person-centred approach: “Mel’s sound. He has a kind personality; he’s made time for me, taking me out to go to the shop and to go for cake and he’s a really good listener.”

Under Mel’s guidance, all Flintshire County Council children’s homes have achieved excellent ratings from Care Inspectorate Wales. Now, he and his team share good practice and their new ways of working with other local authorities.

According to his colleagues, “Mel embodies the very best of social care leadership: forward-thinking, people-centred and unwaveringly committed to doing what’s right for children and families.”

Jenna Bennett, Practice Lead at Swansea Council

Jenna was nominated by Michaela Reynolds, Child and Family Support Officer at Swansea Council.

As Practice Lead for her team of social workers, Jenna takes every opportunity to create an empowering and supportive culture for her colleagues.

According to Michaela, “Jenna doesn’t just lead; she lifts others up, creating ripples of impact that extend far beyond her immediate role.”

When there’s a problem to solve, Jenna’s always the first to offer help. But she also makes sure everyone’s voice is heard and valued when searching for solutions.

She leads by empowering her colleagues, building “trust, collaboration, and continuous growth”. For Jenna, leadership means taking every opportunity to grow her team, build their skills and lead by example.

Michaela says: “Jenna has a unique talent for identifying strengths in others and nurturing them, helping team members grow in confidence and capability.”

She gives thoughtful and constructive feedback, always creating opportunities for reflection and learning. Another team member describes Jenna as “always calm, always fair, never judgmental... always with care and purpose”.

Encouraging and developing her team is at the heart of Jenna’s work: “She challenges me, encourages me to think differently, and always pushes me to be the best I can be.”

Jenna also knows the importance of celebrating every success, no matter how small. She works to create a positive environment that motivates the team to do their best.

“Jenna’s passion for improving lives is contagious” says Michaela, “she reminds us daily why our work matters.”

Letitia Deeble, Mental Health Lead at Mirus in Port Talbot

Letitia was nominated by Melissa Murray, Mental Health Team Leader and Sara Davies, Director of Support at Mirus.

Letitia’s approach to leadership is built around creating excellent outcomes for the people her team supports. She’s created a culture focused on empathy, collaboration and continuous learning.

Letitia is described as “someone who brings out the best in others – someone who sees potential where others might see limitation.”

She sees every challenge as an opportunity to learn. By encouraging accountability in an empathetic way, Letitia helps her team learn and grow. As one colleague put it, “I’ve learned more under Letitia’s leadership than I ever expected. She believes in you, even when you don’t believe in yourself.”

Another colleague says: “People feel supported and motivated, and that shows in the way we care for others.”

Letitia prioritises listening when it comes to people who use care and support, as well as staff. She’s an advocate of co-production. This means listening to what the person using support says they need and giving them a role in shaping their care and support plan.

One person receiving support says: “Letitia always listens. She makes sure I’m part of every decision about my care. It feels like I’m in control of my life again.”

Letitia also works with partner organisations, stakeholders and members of the local community, making sure the voices of people using care and support are heard in wider discussions and decision making.

Melissa says: “Her compassionate, person-centred leadership has transformed not only the way we work, but the way people experience care.”

Learner of the year award

Catherine Hevizi, Supported Living Manager at Bridgend County Borough Council

Catherine was nominated by Ceri Williams, Provider Services Manager at Bridgend County Borough Council.

Catherine believed for a long time that learning wasn’t for her. She struggled in school and was diagnosed with dyslexia as an adult. But after working in social care for 30 years, an opportunity came along and Catherine took it.

She began studying for the QCF Level 3 in Health and Social Care and completed her essential skills in literacy and numeracy.

Catherine learned about the theory, legislation and best practice principles that create excellent person-centred care. This has had a huge impact on her team, as well as the people she supports.

Now, Catherine mentors new colleagues, fosters a reflective, inclusive culture and shares new information.

Catherine also promotes best practice in the sector. She works with the speech and language therapy team at Swansea Bay University Health Board to champion dignified, inclusive communication in supported living environments.

Ceri says: “What truly sets Catherine apart is her humility and the way her learning has ignited a belief in others.” Catherine wants to show the people around her that it’s never too late to learn.

Catherine helps the people she supports to learn to express their preferences and needs confidently using new methods and technologies: “Catherine uses her knowledge to balance safety with autonomy, helping people make informed choices about their own lives.”

Catherine’s manager describes her as “the quiet strength of the team”. She learns not only to gain knowledge but to empower others and improve lives.

Georgia Meyrick, Playworker at Clwb Cymer Ofal in Cardiff

Georgia was nominated by Olivia Browning, Welsh Language Training Officer at Clybiau Plant Cymru Kids’ Clubs.

Georgia has been studying for her Level 3 diploma in playwork while balancing her work at Clwb Cymer Ofal and studying full-time at university.

Georgia combines academic excellence, practical skill and genuine passion. She balances her commitments without compromising on the quality of her work.

Olivia says: “Georgia creates inclusive, nurturing play spaces where every child feels valued and free to express themselves.” Georgia’s learning informs every aspect of her work. Her practice is always child-led, responsive and built on playwork principles.

Another colleague says: “Georgia has an incredible ability to see the world through the child’s eyes – she never rushes, she listens, and she always ensures their voices are heard.”

Georgia has also shaped the way her colleagues work. She uses research from her studies to inform real, practical change, including improving play spaces, behaviour management approaches and inclusive practices.

Olivia says: “Her ability to translate theory into meaningful action has enriched the experiences of the children she supports and enhanced the wider environment of her setting.”

Georgia’s enthusiasm for learning and developing her practice has inspired her colleagues. Another team member says: “Georgia is the kind of playworker every child deserves. She brings knowledge, kindness, and passion together in everything she does.”

For Olivia, “Georgia doesn’t just complete her studies; she lives and breathes what she learns, transforming theory into compassionate, effective action.”

Rebecca Howell-Morgan, Inclusive Playworker at Bridging the Gap Youth in Merthyr Tydfil

Rebecca was nominated by Bethan Jones, Training Officer at Clybiau Plant Cymru Kids’ Clubs.

Rebecca is studying towards her Level 3 diploma in playwork while working at Bridging the Gap Youth, an organisation that offers an after-school club, holiday club and over-19s club tailored to children and young people with additional learning needs.

As Rebecca’s tutor, Bethan says: “Her calm, kind and professional approach fosters an environment where children feel safe, valued and encouraged to express themselves.”

Always reflective and looking for ways to apply what she’s learned, Rebecca’s focus is on improving outcomes for the children she works with.

Rebecca adapts play to meet each child’s needs, advocates for their voices to be heard and models best practice.

Bethan says: “What truly stands out about Rebecca is her ability to combine compassion with continuous learning.”

Rebecca’s continuously finding new ways to support children’s development. Inspired by learning about inclusion and participation, Rebecca recently focused on connecting the children to their wider community.

She arranged for the children’s artwork to be displayed in the local library, showing them the value of their work.

To support her learning, Rebecca has completed additional training. She’s completed the Camau Entry Level part 1 Welsh language course, as well as attended lots of Clwb Hwb sessions on subjects, such as inclusive play.

Rebecca actively supports her colleagues to improve their practice, as well as her own. She shares knowledge, mentors new colleagues and has introduced new strategies to help make improvements at work.

Supporting people to live the life that matters to them

Barnardo’s Achieving Change Together Plus (ACT+) service, in partnership with Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council’s Augusta House PODs

Augusta House PODs are purpose built, fully equipped flats with ramp access and smart technology that give neurodivergent and disabled young people a safe space to learn independent living skills. The PODs offer strengths-based support during transitional moments, such as leaving foster care, and in the last year, 24 young people have used the service.

In weekly sessions with Barnardo's ACT+ service, young people living in the PODs learn to use public transport, practise being part of a community and develop independent living skills such as cooking, laundry and managing money. Families also learn how to better support their child’s independence.

With co-produced personalised support plans, the partnership gives young people the tools to learn, fail and succeed in developing independence safely before going out into the community.

Mencap Mon, Llwybrau Llesiant, Conwy Connect and Stand North Wales Collaboration

These four organisations work in partnership to provide bilingual support and community-based activities for people with learning disabilities across Gwynedd, Anglesey, Conwy and Denbighshire.

Despite once competing for funding, the organisations are now working together across local authority boundaries, drawing on each other’s strengths and pooling their resources so that more people can access support. People with learning disabilities using the service play an active part in this partnership. They suggest, co-produce and lead activities, which include sports, social events and competitions. And it’s giving them the opportunity to meet new people and have experiences they otherwise wouldn’t be able to access.

Team Dyer, Cartrefi Cymru

This small team of support workers was nominated by the person they support, Claire. As someone once labelled too complex to support, Claire says that thanks to her team from Cartrefi Cymru: “I have learnt with the right support anything is possible.”

This highly person-centred team embodies the values of co-production, placing Claire’s dignity and autonomy at the heart of all that they do. They take a teaching and supportive approach by giving Claire the chance to learn, and encourage her to adapt and grow in a truly strengths-based way rather than manage problems and take over when things get difficult. With Team Dyer’s support, Claire has learned how to use her voice, maintain positive relationships and has gained the courage to try new experiences.

WeCare Wales award

Gareth Lewis, Social Worker at Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council

Gareth was nominated by Helen Bowles, Experienced Social Worker at Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council.

In January 2024, Gareth started a temporary position as a social worker in the Housing Outreach Team for homelessness in Rhondda Cynon Taf. Over the last two years, he’s supported 141 people at risk of homelessness.

As a result of Gareth’s work highlighting the need for support in the area, the council has created three permanent social worker posts in the team.

According to Helen, Gareth has “transformed countless lives” with his non-judgemental, compassionate and strengths-based approach.

In a crisis, Gareth always acts quickly and calmly to get support where it’s needed.

A parent of a person receiving support says: “Gareth is extremely reliable and very supportive. Even though I know he’s incredibly busy, he has truly been a huge benefit when helping my son.”

One colleague says: “Gareth's role has proven to be transformative, not only for individuals facing homelessness but also for the professionals striving to support them daily.”

Gareth values the expert opinions around him. He’s “a true collaborator”, improving services across the local authority by strengthening multi-agency work.

By improving communication between services and helping people access support early, Gareth has reduced pressure on the system. Now, fewer emergency placements and crisis interventions are needed in the community.

Helen says: “He is much more than a social worker, he is a catalyst for positive change, a reassuring presence during crises, and a staunch advocate for dignity and respect.”

Maxine Carr, Care and Support Worker, Denbighshire County Council

Maxine was nominated by Rob Gilmour, Deputy Team Manager at Denbighshire County Council.

Maxine has worked at Nant y Môr Extra Care for 12 years, providing care and support to the older people who live there.

To help the setting’s residents and their families get to know one another, Maxine organises regular social events for them.

Events range from Macmillan coffee mornings and themed take away nights to Halloween and Christmas jumper parties.

Maxine collects donations from the local community and collaborates with local businesses to arrange catering.

Rob says: “These gatherings have become a highlight in the calendar, creating a sense of excitement and community spirit that is truly remarkable.” Without Maxine’s events, a lot of the residents would have limited opportunities for social interaction.

One resident says: “The events have brought me out of my shell and given me more confidence socialising with others.”

And it’s not just the residents. Maxine has created a sense of well-being and connection across the whole community, with family, friends, neighbours and staff all looking forward to Maxine’s events.

The events even got a mention in a recent Care Inspectorate Wales inspection, which rated the setting as excellent: “People told us they loved the recent Chinese banquet night and are looking forward to the next one.”

Maxine also takes every opportunity for professional development. She recently attended ‘Making sense: care and creativity training’ and has been working in other parts of the service to learn more about supporting residents with dementia.

Rob says: “Maxine isn’t just organising events, she is building bridges, nurturing relationships, and improving lives.”

The 2026 Accolades awards ceremony will be held at the Parkgate Hotel in Cardiff on 2 July 2026.

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