June was an award-winning month for Cumbria County Council apprentices.

Following successful nominations at two separate award ceremonies for the delivery of excellent services to adults with learning disabilities.

Councillor Patricia Bell – Cabinet Member for Health and Care Services, said: “These Cumbria County Council employees and apprentices are a testament to Cumbria County Council’s Adult Services and Apprenticeship Scheme.

“With the support of mentors and colleagues they have achieved excellence to improve the lives of the people that they support. I’m truly very proud of their fantastic accomplishments.”

Council apprentice Amy Tomkins won the award for Perseverance in the Lancashire and South Cumbria Health and Care Partnership 2022 Apprenticeship Awards, for going above and beyond in her work delivering Day Services to adults at Mill Lane in Barrow.

Amy was nominated for the award for her dedication and commitment to her work.

Her role includes supporting adults in therapeutic activities through light rooms and soft play areas, jacuzzi baths and other equipment to improve mobility.

On top of the day job and her qualification, Amy has also mastered Makaton sign language; a language programme that uses signs, speech and symbols, enabling her to better communicate those that she supports.

Councillor Sue Sanderson – Cabinet Members for Schools and Learning, said: “Amy and Gill are a great example of how hard work and going the extra mile makes such a difference to the people we serve.

“The Cumbria County Council Apprenticeship scheme has provided a great opportunity to develop their knowledge, helping these high achieving individuals to reach their goals.

“Thank you to Amy and Gill for their outstanding dedication.”

Gill Brooks, Supervisor at Tarn House in Barrow, won ‘Higher apprentice of the year’ at Kendal College’s annual award ceremony, for her studies and work with residents.

Working in partnership with residents, Gill brought together her work, learning and research to complete her Higher Level Apprenticeship in Care Leadership and Management.

Gill’s research project helped her to empower residents by promoting their independence and giving them more autonomy over their lives.