A COMMUNITY-spirited charity supporting adults with learning difficulties has been nominated for a number of prestigious awards.

Team members of Where Next, based in Redditch and Studley, have been recognised for their selfless work throughout the pandemic as part of the Worcestershire Health & Social Care Awards 2021.

Previously, head of operations Russell Wall was nominated for the Care Hero Award after going above and beyond for clients.

Nic Wilkinson, who works at Where Next, has also nominated him for the Care Employer Award.

Nic said: “I have benefited firsthand from their investment in their staff and the way the organisation goes above and beyond to support, look after and nurture its staff and its clients.

“Our head of ops is always there to listen and support in whatever way he can, you don't have to worry about losing out on income if you are taken ill or if you need to make sure your gran gets to her hospital appointment, he will make sure you take the time to do it.”

Nic himself has also been nominated for the Care Hero Award after putting on online sessions for clients with learning difficulties during the lockdown.

Where Next has been offering a range of online activities from drawing, games, keep fit, to dancing and quizzes.

Julie Roycroft, who put forward the nomination, said: “The sessions are fantastic, and it is lovely to see so many people joining in with the activities, smiling, chatting, having a laugh and joke with their friends and staff.

“I am sure this service has been so helpful to parents and carers of adults with learning disabilities.”

The awards are sponsored by the University of Worcester, and supported by Sanctuary Housing, NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Knights Pharmacy and Worcestershire County Council.

People have up to Friday (April 2) to nominate their industry heroes. To nominate someone go to: Worcestershire Health & Social Care Awards 2021