Celebrating Our Colleagues: AFG’s Amazing People Awards 2024

The Amazing People Awards is a special time for us at Alternative Futures Group (AFG) to come together and celebrate the outstanding contributions of our colleagues. This annual ceremony, now in its seventh year, is a moment to pause, reflect, and honour the dedication, hard work, and passion of our people.

This year, we were thrilled to receive 500+ Award nominations from our colleagues, a record-breaking number that speaks volumes about the incredible talent across AFG. On Wednesday, 13th November, around 200 of our colleagues gathered at the iconic Rum Warehouse at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool to recognise this year’s Finalists and Winners. With musical entertainment from ‘Mr Wilson’s Second Liners’, and the brilliant Steve Walls as our host for the evening, we were set for a fantastic night of celebration.

We welcomed 43 Finalists (including 12 Team Finalists) across 13 Award Categories this year, with each Finalist highlighting the values, collaboration, and impact that drive AFG forward.

Honouring Our Winners and the Awards They Represent

Our award winners embody the very best of AFG’s values – whether that is taking ownership, making a positive difference, or raising the bar. Here’s an overview of each award category, its significance, and this year’s outstanding achievers:

Every Person Matters Award

This award recognises individuals who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to valuing people. They take time to listen, recognise the unique potential of everyone they meet, and ensure that all voices are heard.

Winner: Nathan Robinson, Team Leader

Watch this video to learn why Nathan won the Award.

Head Office Colleague of the Year Award

This award recognises the efforts of colleagues in AFG’s Head Office who make a significant impact behind the scenes. This individual supports their colleagues with skill, innovation, and dedication to ensure AFG runs smoothly.

Winner: Fran Mackin, Marketing Campaign Lead

We Make a Positive Difference Award

This award celebrates colleagues who bring energy and a ‘can do’ attitude to their work. They inspire others through their passion and help individuals achieve their best, making a meaningful impact every day.

Winner: Gavin Melling, Support Worker

Watch this video to learn why Gavin won the Award.

Head Office Team of the Year Award

This award recognises the collective efforts of a head office team whose collaboration and expertise help drive the organisation forward. They play a crucial role in supporting colleagues across AFG.

Winner: IT Infrastructure Team

Watch this video to learn why the IT Infrastructure Team won the Award.

We Take Ownership Award

This award honours those who are proactive, solution-focused, and results-driven. This individual does the right thing, leads by example, and contributes to the success of the entire organisation.

Winner: June Mercer, Occupational Therapist

Watch this video to learn why June won the Award.

We Are One – Team Award

This award celebrates a team that embodies exceptional collaboration and teamwork. They trust one another, deliver amazing outcomes, and take pride in their shared accomplishments.

Winner: Preston New Road Team

Watch this video to learn why the Preston New Road Team won the Award.

We Raise the Bar Award

For those who continuously innovate and adapt, this award highlights individuals who embrace change and strive for excellence. These trailblazers push boundaries and lead the way for others to follow.

Winner: Steven Naylor, Support Worker

Watch this video to learn why Steven won the Award.

Frontline Colleague of the Year Award – Learning Disability

This award recognises the incredible contributions of a frontline colleague working within AFG’s Learning Disability division. This individual goes above and beyond to support people, living out AFG’s values every day.

Winner: Holly Robinson, Support Worker

Watch this video to learn why Holly won the Award.

Frontline Colleague of the Year Award – Mental Health

This award honours a frontline colleague in AFG’s Mental Health division who makes an outstanding impact. Their dedication and collaborative approach ensure the best outcomes for the people they support.

Winner: Helen Swann, Mental Health Nurse

Watch this video to learn why Helen won the Award.

Most Impactful Newcomer Award

This award recognises a colleague who has joined AFG within the last 12 months and made a remarkable difference. Their fresh perspective, creativity, and ability to adapt have driven positive change within the organisation.

Winner: Mary Emmanuel-Sunday, Team Leader

Watch this video to learn why Mary won the Award.

Frontline Team of the Year Award – Learning Disability

This award celebrates the collective efforts of a Learning Disability team that goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional care and support, striving to achieve amazing outcomes for the people they support.

Winner: Springhill Team

Watch this video to learn why the Springhill Team won the Award.

Frontline Team of the Year Award – Mental Health

This award recognises the exceptional work of a Mental Health team that delivers creative, compassionate, and impactful support. They achieve incredible results and improve lives every day.

Winner: Meadow Park Team

Watch this video to learn why the Meadow Park Team won the Award.

Inspirational Everyday Leader Award

This award recognises a person who leads with passion, energy, and enthusiasm. They empower and motivate their teams, acting as a shining example of what everyday leadership looks like.

Winner: Daniel Batley, Area Manager

Watch this video to learn why Daniel won the Award.

Reflecting on the Amazing People Awards 2024

Kirsty Murphy, Chief People Officer, shared her appreciation for the incredible commitment of our colleagues:

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to every one of our people for their dedication to those we support. It is their unique talents, their relentless pursuit of independence, and their genuine support for one another that fuels our success.

But no success is ever solely the result of one person’s effort. Every award earned this year is supported by the teamwork, collaboration, and support of everyone in the organisation. We grow and succeed together, as demonstrated in our ‘We Are One’ value.”

Looking Ahead

At AFG, we believe better never stops. We will continue to inspire each other, support one another, and push the boundaries of what we can achieve together.

The Amazing People Awards serve as a powerful reminder of the exceptional talent and commitment that make AFG what it is today. To all our Winners, Finalists, and Nominees – thank you for exemplifying our values and for your dedication to making a positive difference every day.

Here’s to another year of raising the bar and achieving amazing things!

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