Helen Charlton form Dyffryn Ardudwy is the first person in Gwynedd to receive this award. She recently attended a special ceremony in London where she was awarded the Certificate of achievement. Helen gained a  Level 3 NVQ in Health and Social Care - Adults qualification through her work at Canolfan Asesu Anterth. The award recognises her personal achievement and hard work in gaining this qualification. 

City & Guilds' Medals for Excellence is a global programme that has been running for over 100 years. It recognises the achievements of learners and lecturer/trainers in the UK and internationally who produce exceptional work, or overcome the odds to achieve their goals. The Medals for Excellence programme recognises those who achieve the best results, but also those who although not at the top of their class, go above and beyond what is expected of them and show a true journey of progression.

In a ceremony which was held closer to home, Helen was presented with the award by Healthy Gwynedd Cabinet Member, Councillor Paul Thomas and Gwynedd Council’s Head of Provider and Leisure Service, Morwena Edwards.

Councillor Thomas said:

“This innovative scheme offers vulnerable adults – who for whatever reason are unable to live independently on the own – the freedom to live independently in the community and as part of a family household.

"I am very pleased of having this opportunity to recognise the important work our enablers are achieving in Gwynedd. Helen is an excellent example of someone who has maximised the benefits of this pioneering initiative. She has worked hard to improve her qualifications, and is doing something really worthwhile by opening her home and offering support to others."

Selwyn Lloyd Jones who works for Gwynedd Council as the Accommodation with Care Manager added:

“I am very pleased that Helen’s hard work is being recognised. It is great that she represented Gwynedd in this global event which was held in London. Every year thousands are nominated for this award, and it’s such an achievement to be a selected winner. We are all very proud of her.”

The Gwynedd Adult Placement Scheme is looking for paid carers who are willing to open their homes for vulnerable adult. More information is available from Gwynedd Council’s Adult Placement team on adult.placement@gwynedd.gov.uk or 01766 515161.