A PASSIONATE mental health worker who supports unpaid carers has won a prestigious award.
Daryhl Lewis, from Cheshire East All Ages Carers Hub, was named North West Social Care Newcomer of the Year at the regional Great British Care Awards.
Describing it as her ‘dream job’, Daryhl’s role allows her to make a meaningful impact in the lives of carers.
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Her outstanding efforts have now earned her a place in the national finals, set to be hosted by broadcaster Vernon Kay next spring.
Daryhl, a psychological wellbeing practitioner from Runcorn, has been with the Cheshire East All Ages Carers Hub, which is operated by national health and social care charity Making Space, since January.
Daryhl received her award at a gala dinner at Manchester’s Kimpton Clocktower hotel.
Keri Smith, associate director at Making Space, said Daryhl made a very powerful impact very quickly.
Keri added: "She receives glowing feedback, is unflinchingly enthusiastic and totally committed.
"As a single parent of a young child with extra caring duties and lifelong experience of caring for family members, Daryhl uses her lived experience - as well as her first class honours degree in health and social care - to benefit others.
“She has a very bright future in social care and is a thoroughly deserving winner of this award."
Judges said: "Daryhl’s innovative, personalised approach empowers parents and carers, creating a positive ripple of change.
"With an early years’ background, she equips families with self-help tools and actively involves them in shaping the carers' service, ensuring their voices drive continuous improvement for the best possible outcomes."
Daryhl said: “I am so grateful for the award.
“It was a lovely evening celebrating so many fabulous people and services.
“I’d like to thank Making Space for supporting me.
“I hope this can encourage more carers to reach out for support.
"I am so passionate about improving wellbeing and I love being able to make a difference.
“The feedback so far has been fantastic.”
The Great British Care Awards celebrate outstanding individuals and teams in the UK care sector, recognising excellence across all roles and services.
These awards highlight the essential contributions of those who make a positive impact in social care.
Daryhl will now go forward to the national final in Birmingham next March, where she will compete against winners from the other regions.
Cheshire East All Ages Carers Hub teams support both adult and young carers, aged five to 18, and are based in community venues across Cheshire East including Knutsford, Handforth and Wilmslow.
The service can also provide remote support via telephone or video call and can conduct home visits.
Services include statutory carer’s assessments, one to one support, peer support groups and activities and carers' breaks.
For further information contact enquiries@cheshireeastcarershub.co.uk call 07866821609 or visit cheshireeastcarershub.co.uk
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