TWO care workers have received recognition for their efforts helping carers and vulnerable people across Cheshire from a national charity.

Chloe Cadman and Gilbert Martin have been honoured by health and social charity, Making Space.

Winsford resident Chloe oversees supported living services in Northwich and Ellesmere Port and was presented with the Inspiring Leader Award recognising her commitment and ability to lead by example.

Scotland-born Gilbert works for Cheshire West and Chester Carer Support, based in Northwich, helping carers of people living with mental health issues.

Now living in Northwich himself, Gilbert was awarded the Community Integration Award for his determination to overcome the obstacles that carers face.

Both winners joined finalists from across the country at a ceremony held at The Edwardian Hotel, in Manchester.

Samantha Weston, who is Gilbert’s team leader and nominated him, said: “Gil is meeting more and more carers in rural communities for one-to-one appointments and has a natural ability to chat to carers about their own unique needs. 

“He’s ensured that support is available in rural areas and targets GP surgeries, pharmacies, community groups and local food hubs to reach as many people as possible.”

Gilbert added: “I’m one of a small team of five who put a lot of work into expanding our reach to help more people, so this award is for the team.

"It was great to see the other finalists and share our ideas. It’s clear we all love our work, so to be recognised for doing our jobs is an honour."

The nomination for Chloe described her as 'positive, passionate and having a great ability to motivate her team'.

It added: "She faces challenges head-on and uses all her knowledge and networks to achieve the best possible outcomes. She will go above and beyond for our residents and fight tooth and nail for what she believes in. Her qualities inspire everyone she meets."

Chloe said: “There are days when I question whether I am doing enough for my team and for the people we support, so being recognised with this award is quite overwhelming.

"It inspires me to achieve even more within my role and I hope my continued hard-work and dedication will reflect this."  

The judges for both awards were Alison Everett, the area manager for Skills for Care, and Phil Orton, the chief of people at Making Space.

They said: “Gilbert has diligently worked to reduce barriers for carers, continuously seeking innovative ways to reach those in hard-to-reach areas. He is a standout advocate for carers in his community. 

“Chloe is an engaging and motivational leader with a clear vision for her services. She leads with empathy, supports people to develop skills and has created a positive, open and trusting culture."

Phil added: Phil continued: "I am continually inspired by the amazing work I witness throughout our services from our colleagues.

"Each and every member of our Making Space team is an inspiration, which is why we embrace the opportunity to recognise and value their incredible work and take pride in the positive."

For more information on Cheshire West & Chester Carer Support and the free support available, contact via email at cheshirewestcarersupport@makingspace.co.uk or by calling 01606 606694.