November Team member of the month

Noah Nyemba, Support Worker at Starboard House in Southampton, has been awarded Team member of the month for November. Congratulations on being selected.

On a recent holiday away with three people supported and two fellow team members, Noah showed exceptional dedication and positivity. During the week he supported one man in particular, working tirelessly to keep him happy and entertained throughout.

It was a tiring job as this person is energetic and constantly on the go, even during meals. Noah never took anyone’s offer of help, facing every challenge with a big smile and working hard to make the holiday special. In addition, he managed to support his team members by carrying luggage to ensure they weren’t doing too much heavy lifting.

Practice Lead at Starboard House, Cerys Powell, said: “Noah found entertainment for people supported in everything. He laughed and encouraged them to get involved in activities, celebrating their wins and achievements. He really was a godsend in times where we needed extra support.

“I worked the holiday team very hard as I wanted people we were supporting to have the best time. Although I jam-packed the holiday with lots of activities, they never failed to live up to my insanely high standards. I am feeling very lucky to have had them on this trip and I know those we supported are too.”

Noah said: “This recognition inspires me to continually seek to improve my service to people we support. I feel greatly indebted to Starboard House leadership and team members. They have created an environment that has given me a very good work experience by leading by example and assisting me whenever I need help.

“I will use the money on my family during this Christmas period.”

Runners up

Our two runners up in November are Jo Bailey, Assessments and Placements Co-ordinator, and Elaine Petherick, Practice Lead at Eastbourne Road.

Jo was nominated for her meticulous review of occupancy data over two years to consolidate often fragmented information. Her work has delivered valuable insights as well as fostering collaboration whilst greatly improving efficiency across the organisation. Her nominator praised Jo for her unwavering commitment to ensuring accuracy, her strong work ethic and proactive problem-solving, describing her as ‘a hidden hero on our digitalisation journey’.

Elaine has been a team member at Eastbourne Road for 12 years, continually embodying Achieve together’s values. An example of her being brave was to lead on planning and preparing a person she supports to visit Lourdes on a pilgrimage this September.

As a key worker Elaine makes things happen. She has supported Amanda in choosing new furniture and making a map of the cemetery she can visit her family grave with any team member when she wants to.

Well done to all three team members. Thank you for being a valuable part of Achieve together.