Vocational Support Celebrates Success

People supported by Vocational Support have been recognised for their employment and volunteering achievements at a special awards ceremony in Widnes on Thursday 22nd June.

Vocational Support helps people with learning and physical disabilities, mental health concerns and autism find rewarding paid or voluntary work opportunities.

Fifty people from across Merseyside and Cheshire attended the event at the Select Security Stadium, home of Widnes Vikings Rugby League Club. Guests received a warm welcome from the Club’s Chief Executive Officer, James Rule, who personally thanked volunteers who sell programmes for the Club on match days.

Every person supported by Vocational Support was awarded with a Certificate of Achievement, commending their success in the work place, volunteering efforts and determination to lead more independent lives. Support staff and local businesses were also commended for their commitment to helping people to find meaningful work opportunities. 

Joe Moore joined Vocational Support 20 years ago and with their support he has flourished in his job at McDonald’s. So much so, Joe now attends work independently and received a ‘Certificate for Independence’ at the awards.

On receiving his award, Joe said: “Thank you to everyone at Vocational Support, they’ve been the best to me. I’m so happy to have got this award.”

A special surprise came when Widnes Vikings’ players Olly Ashall and Vice-Captain Tom Gilmore, made an appearance to personally congratulate the award winners, taking time to sign autographs and have their photos taken with them.

As a special gesture from Widnes Vikings, everyone was invited to their game against Leigh Centurians that evening, the first rugby league experience for many of the guests.

Liz Donnelly, Regional Manager North West for Community Integrated Care, said: “It’s been fantastic to meet so many inspirational people today, we’re so proud of their commitment and achievement. Well done to our dedicated Vocational Support team for helping people achieve their dreams and aspirations.

Liz continued: “I’d like to thank our partners, Widnes Vikings, for not only providing fantastic work opportunities for the people we support, but for their generosity in donating tickets for today’s match and arranging for the players to meet our guests.”

To find out more about Vocational Support Service, visit www.c-i-c.co.uk/vocationalsupport.