The CEO of a not-for-profit co-operative is celebrating after winning a prestigious national award for his leadership and support for adults with learning disabilities, autism, and older people across Wales.
Geraint Jenkins, CEO of Cartrefi Cymru Co-operative was named winner of the highly coveted Making a Difference category, at this year’s Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards. Founded in 1989 by a group of parents and activists, the social care co-operative ensures that people with learning disabilities living across Wales have access to the highest quality of support in their local communities.
Now in its 12th year, the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards were founded by and organised by Care Management Matters (CMM), and developed in conjunction with the National Care Forum, a not-for-profit organisation offering expert advice in the care sector.
The awards recognise the hard work, dedication, innovation and excellence of everyone working in the not-for-profit sector who is making a positive difference to people’s lives, whether they are supporting children or adults.
The accolade was given to Geraint for his work as a collaborative, compassionate and visionary leader, known for his ability to bring people together across local authorities. Through his unique approach, Geraint has strengthened Cartrefi Cymru’s role as a trusted, inclusive and innovative organisation which delivers high-quality care.
Commenting on his success, Geraint said:
“It was fantastic to win the Making a Difference award and it is an award I proudly share with each and every member of our co-operative. Our collaborative, co-productive approach to providing support and care showcases the very best of the not-for-profit care sector and we’re delighted to see this recognised in a UK-wide context.”
“This award reflects the commitment of everyone involved at Cartrefi Cymru Co-operative and the positive difference that can be made when a community of shared values comes together to support one another. Thank you to everyone who at Cartrefi Cymru who works so hard to build inclusive communities, with trust, kindness and respect at their core.”
Held at Birmingham Town Hall, the award ceremony was hosted by actress and television presenter, Sally Lindsay MBE, and brought together esteemed leaders in health and social care from across the UK to learn about and applaud the diverse work of the winners and finalists.
Simon Johnston, Marketing Director UK at Markel, stated:
“Every year, the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards shine a light on the remarkable work happening across the not-for-profit care sector. The dedication, resilience, and compassion demonstrated by individuals and teams continues to be truly inspiring and we are delighted to be giving them the recognition they deserve.
“Geraint stood out to the judging panel for his dedication and the meaningful impact he is making for the people he supports.
“As the awards enter their twelfth year, we remain proud to work alongside CMM to celebrate the achievements of the sector. Keeping the awards free to enter and attend remains a core part of this, ensuring that organisations and individuals from across the sector have the opportunity to take part and be recognised.
“Congratulations to Geraint and all of this year’s finalists. Their commitment plays a vital role in improving lives and strengthening communities in every corner of the UK.”
Lisa Werthmann, Director at Care Management Matters, said:
“We are so proud to be able to continue to produce these awards. The not-for-profit sector is full to the brim of incredible people delivering outstanding outcomes for vulnerable people.
“These awards aim to shine a spotlight on them and celebrate them with the recognition they deserve. This year’s finalists and winners just highlight what wonderful work takes place every day and we want to congratulate all those involved.”
Entries to next year’s awards will be opening later this year for anyone working in the not-for-profit sector who is making a positive difference to people’s lives. Anyone can enter themselves or nominate someone else in one of the categories – no matter what their position in an organisation. More information on the benefits of entering and winning the awards can be found on the Why Enter? page.
Markel is widely recognised as a key supporter to the care sector through the provision of specialist insurance, legal, tax and consultancy capabilities. One such service the company provides to the sector is its specialist care consultancy, Markel Care Practitioners, which exists to provide support across a range of issues such as risk management, inspection preparation and continuity planning.
Those wishing to find out more about the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards, or looking to register their interest for this year’s entry window, can do so at: care.uk.markel.com/care-awards/
More information about Markel Care can also be found here.
