Yvonne Anthony, who has worked in adult social care at Portsmouth City Council for nearly 30 years, has been shortlisted in the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Social Care’ category. She and her team take calls from members of the public who are looking for advice to access social care and help them to get the right support. She also oversees the sensory team, who provide support to people who are deaf and visually impaired. Yvonne is known across the council for being a supportive and encouraging manager who champions student social workers.
Yvonne said, “It’s very overwhelming! I couldn’t do the job I do without the dedication of my teams who all do a fantastic job every day, so for me it feels like it should be a shared thing. We are here to support the people of Portsmouth and we want to do it in the best way possible. In everything we do we have integrity and respect for the residents we engage with, and each other as professionals.”
Room One – the council’s service for autistic adults – has also been shortlisted, in the ‘Co-production’ category. The service is a trailblazer for the region, in being both designed and run by autistic people. It continues to develop and grow in collaboration with the autistic community.
Patrick Saunders, who is himself autistic, runs one-to-one peer support sessions for those who come to Room One. The service also offers group sessions and provides information, advice and support on topics including referrals, socialising, living independently, and peer support. They can also signpost to other local services if needed. No diagnosis is needed to use Room One’s services.
Patrick says: “It’s fantastic to be recognised for the work we’re doing and it’s a great testament to the strength of peer support and to acknowledge the participation and collaboration of the autistic community that have made Room One what it is. We’re all in this together – it’s not just for us as a team but for everyone who uses the building.”
Kayley Sayers, who leads the Room One team, explains: “Some of the feedback we’ve had from autistic people is that Room One has saved their lives, because the support is offered in such a different way. People can come in here and don’t have to mask or pretend to fit into a neurotypical world that just is not set up for them.”
“We’re not replacing health professionals, ” says Patrick, “but we’re part of an interconnected support network for individuals with autism. We’ve seen lives being changed by just being in this environment. A peer support group can feel a bit easier to engage with and that may create confidence that you can take into other areas of your life.”
“People have gone on to employment, we’ve had somebody who’s recently started a university course,” says Kayley.
Cllr Matthew Winnington, Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing, Health and Care, said:
“I’m so proud that we have two finalists at the South East Great British Care Awards. Whether it’s help to access social care or support for autism, both Yvonne and the Room One team embody the values we are so proud of in Portsmouth – putting residents first and ensuring they are at the heart of everything they do. I wish both Yvonne and the Room One team the best of luck on Friday.”
Those wishing to find out more about Room One can visit portsmouthcc.gov.uk/roomone, email RoomOne@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call 07553 607 473.