Tim Keegan, a support worker at Old Silk Works Club in Warminster, has been named Care Worker of the Month by Social Care TV.
Tim was nominated by club manager Louise Gover who said she wanted him to be recognised for his genuine, caring and empathic support for club members
She said: “Tim goes above and beyond each and every day to ensure our club members get the very best from their day with us. He spends so much time one to one with those who are struggling emotionally. Spending time chatting, reassuring and most of all listening. Tim is guaranteed to make our members smile and often has them in fits of laughter with his fun likeable approach."
She said he was particularly good at finding ways to engage new members. "After spending some one to one time with a gentleman who engaged very little and was rather withdrawn, Tim discovered that he used to enjoy some wood work and DIY and he had voiced to Tim that he felt useful when he was doing those tasks.
"In his own time Tim went out and purchased some items to bring to the club. The following day Tim and the gentleman sanded down all the coffee tables and re varnished them all, bringing life back to old furniture together. Watching this was amazing because the gentleman was engaged, smiling, and most importantly seemed so happy. He said this made him feel useful again. They now regularly take on small jobs around the day club together."
Louise added that new and prospective club members were encouraged by seeing another man in a care role during their initial visit. She said it gave them confidence there will be another person they can relate to. "With the day club having an even mix of both male and female members, it’s an added bonus to have Tim bringing both support to the men during discussions, activities and the personal care side of his role. The women also enjoy having a man around to interact with."
Social Care TV is the UK's largest provider of online training for the health and social care industry.
A spokesperson said: "Many heartfelt congratulations Tim from all at SCTV and thank you so much from all of us for the incredible work you do."