“I had a lovely time.” That was the verdict from Tom, one of our residents, as he enjoyed his big night on the red carpet this past weekend.

Tom, along with co-star Rob Hemming, saw their film “Happy, Okay Mate,” nominated for four awards at the Birmingham Film Awards held at the glitzy ICC in the city.

Accompanied by his mum, Helen, and the Trust’s Registered Manager, Brendan Griffith, Tom enjoyed the star treatment at the ceremony. He said, “It was great, I had a lovely time.”

Rob agreed, saying, “It was great to celebrate the fantastic achievement of being nominated for Best Choreography & Best Micro Short with Tom, Brendan, Helen, and Rob. We had a fantastic three-course meal and lots of fun. Well done, Tom! I’m really proud of you!”

Indeed, when we spoke to Tom, he was quick to praise the food, particularly the pudding, adding, “I really liked the little ice cream cones with the brownie.”

Although “Happy, Okay Mate” ultimately didn’t win any awards, Brendan was quick to stress that it was far more important than that: “Tom was a little disappointed not to come away with something,” he stated, “but I said to him, ‘look around here, how many of the other delegates have special needs?’ There weren’t any. That, and the fact that hundreds of films were originally selected in these categories, being nominated is an astonishing achievement.”

Apart from the nomination, Tom N Rob – as the duo call themselves – will be running a workshop in Shropshire next week. For further details, click here: https://sidance.live/

It’s Tom’s big night this Saturday – when the whole of the Lisieux Trust family will be rooting for him when his film Happy Okay Mate is up for four awards at the Birmingham Film Festival.

The wonderful short film – which you can watch below – is up for the following awards:

– Best Micro Short

– Best Stunts Or Choregraphy

– The Audience Award – which will be voted for at the screenings and via our social media.

– The BFF Bull Award, the grand prize for the best work in the entire festival

Tom will be joined by his parents, his co-star Rob Hemming and Trust Managers in Birmingham for what is sure to be an incredible evening.

The award nominations are just the latest in a string of projects Tom has been recognised for – a sample of which you can see below. This is in addition to his dedicated social media following, who loves his dancing. Indeed, he completed a show at the Birmingham Hippodrome last week.

We’ll be talking to Tom to get his reaction next week after the ceremony.

The Birmingham Film Festival takes place at the International Convention Centre on Saturday when we are sure you will all join us in wishing Tom the very best of luck.

Everyone at the Trust is thrilled that we are finalists in two categories at next week’s Women Achieving Greatness in Social Care Awards.

Alison O’Meara , Head of Operations (pictured), is a finalist in both categories. Firstly, she is nominated for the Third Sector Leader Award. Additionally, she is part of another nomination for the Senior Management Team at the Trust, led by CEO Jess Alsop-Greenacre, Head of HR Joanne Bongiovi, and Head of Finance Carole Aston, as well as Alison.

Over 85% of the social care workforce is female. Many of these hardworking, dedicated, and talented women juggle the challenges of family life with their careers.

According to the organisers, “The purpose of The Women Achieving Greatness in Social Care Awards is to highlight and celebrate the incredible achievements of our female leaders in all roles and from all corners of the sector and create a platform to support our rising stars and future leaders.”

The judging panel is headed by Dr. Cecilia Akrise Anim CBE, former President of the Royal College of Nursing, carer of a child with complex needs, and disability rights activist.

Alison has won many awards in her career, most recently the Putting People First Award in the West Midlands for demonstrating an innovative approach to empowering people to have more control over the support they need in their lives.

In a heartfelt plea to wider society, Mark, a dedicated member of the Lisieux Trust community, is urging people to embrace lifelong learning as a means to enhance mental well-being. He credits his passion for learning to his upbringing, where his parents instilled the value of seeking knowledge through books, saying, “Mum and Dad used to say to me, ‘If you don’t know the answer, read a book,’ and I don’t know if that happens so much anymore.”

Mark laments the diminishing emphasis on traditional learning methods with the advent of search engines like Google. He believes that the personal touch and depth of understanding that come from delving into books have been somewhat overshadowed in today’s fast-paced digital age, reasoning: “People don’t understand things as well if everything they need is there to find.”

Putting his convictions into action, Mark has incorporated daily maths lessons into his routine, spurred on by a thoughtful recent birthday gift. This consistent practice keeps his mind sharp, and he dedicates considerable effort towards honing his writing abilities, demonstrating that the pursuit of self-improvement knows no age limit.

Beyond his dedication to learning, Mark has shown an exemplary commitment to the community, selflessly raising significant funds for various charitable causes, already active in his local community, he nurtures aspirations of becoming a local councillor to assist people even more – and has undertaken training to do this.

Mark has a specific interest in mental health issues and firmly believes that more must be done to support those struggling with such challenges. He advocates for a collective approach, emphasising the importance of kindness and empathy in our interactions with one another, ever eager to put his beliefs into practice, he has raised significant sums for the NHS. He is pictured here with an NHS Report that features his image on the cover.

One of Mark’s cherished dreams is to meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss strategies for bolstering mental health resources and initiatives on a broader scale. He envisions a society where mental health is given the attention and resources it truly deserves, and where community well-being takes centre stage.

As Mark aptly puts it, “You’re never too old to learn new things.” His unwavering dedication to lifelong learning serves as an inspiring example for us all, demonstrating that the pursuit of knowledge is not only a path to personal growth but also a key to fostering a healthier, more compassionate society.

In an era dominated by technology, Mark’s call to rekindle our love for traditional learning methods stands as a poignant reminder that sometimes, the answers we seek lie within the pages of a book, waiting for us to discover them.

Welsh rock band Those Damn Crows took time out of their recent tour to do something special for a tenant of the Trust.

Amii (pictured) is a huge fan of the band and had previously seen them supporting the million-selling US band The Goo Dolls (famed for their song “Iris,” featured in the 1998 film City Of Angels starring Nicholas Cage and Meg Ryan) over the summer. She was left disappointed, however, when she was unable to secure a ticket for a show on the sold-out tour that the Bridgend-based outfit had played last month.

However, when the kind-hearted Crows – whose most recent album “Inhale/Exhale” landed at number three on the UK album charts – heard that one of their biggest fans couldn’t see them on stage, they decided to do something special for her. They signed the official setlist that was used by singer Shane Greenhall at their gig at London’s famed 2300-capacity Kentish Town Forum in October.

Amii (who is holding the unique memento above) was thrilled by the gesture and vowed to “treasure it.”

Amii’s trip to the concert back in June was just one of many outings the residents of Lisieux Trust have undertaken this year. Shows such as The Lion King, Calendar Girls, and The Full Monty, as well as Premier League and WSL games, WWE wrestling, and many more, have all been attended. It is a vital part of the Trust ethos to ensure that the residents and tenants get to enjoy as much of what they love as possible.

Over the weekend, the Lisieux Trust proudly stood among the finest in the Care Sector at the prestigious GB Care Awards held in Birmingham. The event, which brought together nearly 500 individuals, was a celebration of excellence and dedication in the field.

Lisieux Trust Senior Support Worker Emma McEvilly was nominated for the Support Worker of the Year award for the second time in just three years. Her tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to the well-being of our residents and tenants have not only touched the lives of the individuals she supports but have also earned her this well-deserved recognition.

Emma was accompanied by Trust Operations Manager Alison O’Meara, Registered Manager Denise Barrett, Manager Mikey Gavin, and Media and Communications Officer Andy Thorley.

Alison O’Meara and Andy Thorley also assumed the role of judges at the awards. Among the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to meet with Roksana Drzewicka, the recipient of the Newcomer Award in the West Midlands Region. Andy remarked: “Her story really resonated with us, but honestly, everyone who was nominated deserved to be recognised.”

The Regional Awards ceremony was a heartwarming gathering, filled with stories of dedication, compassion, and resilience. The winners in each category will now advance to the National Finals, scheduled to take place at the ICC in the New Year.

The Lisieux Trust extends its heartfelt congratulations to Emma McEvilly and all the nominees and winners at the National Care Awards.

For more information about the Lisieux Trust and its mission to provide outstanding care and support to individuals with Autism and Learning Disabilities, please visit www.lisieuxtrust.org.uk

Emma McEvilly, a dedicated Senior Support Worker at Lisieux Trust, has been shortlisted for a coveted British Care Award in the Support Worker Category. This marks the second time in three years that Emma’s exceptional contributions to the care industry have been recognised.

Emma’s journey in the care sector began just six years ago after she returned to work after raising her family. In this relatively short span of time, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the well-being and happiness of the residents of the Trust.

Expressing her gratitude, Emma said, “I am proud to be nominated. I’ve loved my time here and cherish my relationships with the residents. We’ve seen them through some hard times, and they feel like an extended family to me.”

After her nomination, Emma was shortlisted and impressed the judges enough to go through to the final. Now, she is eagerly anticipating the Regional Awards night at Birmingham’s ICC in November. Reflecting on her previous nomination, she mentioned, “Last time I was nominated, it was during the height of the pandemic, and we didn’t really get a proper celebration. This time, I’m looking forward to experiencing it properly,” before adding with a smile: “And I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want to win this time!”

Denise Barrett, a Registered Manager at Lisieux Trust, nominated Emma for this well-deserved recognition. She praised Emma’s remarkable growth over the past six years, saying, “The way she’s developed is a credit to her.”

While Emma is modest about her achievements, Denise fondly recalled a particular moment that showcased Emma’s exceptional dedication. “We had one resident who wanted to raise money for Alzheimer’s and also needed to become more active. Emma worked out how many steps she needed to complete to achieve a marathon, and she did it alongside her over a period of time. It was a wonderful thing to do. It gave the resident confidence, a sense of purpose and of course, exercise, but it is also very characteristic of Emma’s approach. I was delighted to nominate her again.”

And the incredible effort had an amazing benefit to the Alzheimer’s Society. Originally hoping to raise £500 for the cause close to her heart, Emma’s incredible work helped Janet (pictured below with her medal) raise more than double that.

The West Midlands Awards is in early November – we’ll have news about how she gets on next month.

In a touching tribute to unwavering dedication and a deep sense of belonging, one of Lisieux Trust’s residents, Maura, recently commemorated an incredible 45 years at the Ebrook Day Centre in Sutton Coldfield. Her journey commenced in her teens and today, her affection for the place continues to radiate.

Maura’s connection with the long-established facility runs deep. “I came here for the first time when I was 16 years old, and I love it here,” Maura shares, her eyes bright with the countless memories she has made here. Her infectious enthusiasm and warm spirit have been a cornerstone of the Centre’s vibrant atmosphere for nearly half a century.

These days frequenting the centre three times a week, Maura eagerly anticipates her favourite day: “Music day on Tuesday!” she says firmly. “it’s great, we all have fun”.

For Maura, the Ebrook Day Centre has been a sanctuary. She arrived at the Trust just two days before the lockdown in 2020 and although she’s happy now, her former life wasn’t always as filled with fun, “Before I came to the Trust, going to Ebrook was the only time I got out. I used to come here every day. Now that I’m in the Trust, I have a lot more friends and do so much more. I only come three times a week but it’s great to see my friends, one of them has been coming nearly as long as me!”

Maura’s seniority at the Centre and her naturally outgoing, caring personality has not gone unnoticed by the staff there. She takes pride in welcoming newcomers, showing them around, and ensuring they feel a part of this special community. Indeed, she says it’s important: “People sometimes need help when they come for the first time. I just try and make sure everyone is ok and not worried.”

The attendees are presently preparing for the Christmas concert and Maura’s presence is felt more than ever. A veteran performer in the festive fun, she plays a vital role in the singing rehearsals. “I sing in the concert every year, I do enjoy it,” Maura says, shortly after she’d returned to her seat after being in the spotlight at the Karaoke.

Tony, one of the senior staff at the Centre, affirms her place in their hearts, “She’s our longest-serving member. If you want to know anything about Ebrook, ask Maura”, he says.  “What she doesn’t know about the place isn’t worth knowing. She is friends with everyone, she’ll help everyone, not just the new people. The place wouldn’t be the same without Maura.”

Maura’s 45-year journey with the Ebrook Day Centre is a testament to the enduring power of community and friendship. No doubt, she can look forward to many more years of shared memories and joyful moments in the decades to come.

We are thrilled to announce that our very own resident, Tom, has been nominated for a staggering four awards at the prestigious Birmingham Film Festival. Tom’s remarkable film, “Happy Okay Mate,” has garnered recognition in various categories, showcasing his exceptional talent.

The nominations for “Happy Okay Mate” include:

1. Best Micro Short Film
2. Best Choreography
3. General Audience Award
4. Best of Fest Award

These nominations not only highlight Tom’s creative prowess but also underscore the impact his work has had on both critics and audiences alike.

The festival promises an exciting showcase of talent and creativity from filmmakers across the globe. Happy Okay Mate will be screened as part of this incredible event on November 19th offering attendees a chance to witness Tom’s artistry firsthand.

The culmination of the Birmingham Film Festivals will take place at the iconic ICC in Birmingham on November 25th where the winners will be announced. This is a momentous occasion not only for Tom but for all of us at the Lisieux Trust who have had the privilege of witnessing his dedication and talent in action.

Tom’s achievements serve as a testament to the limitless potential that resides within each individual. His journey is an inspiration to us all, and we are immensely proud to have him as a member of our community.

For more information about the festival and how to attend, please visit Birmingham Film Festivals Website

For further updates and to follow Tom’s journey, stay tuned to our website and social media channels.

Congratulations, Tom! We’re all rooting for you!

You can watch the film here:

As part of our constant and unwavering efforts to uphold the highest standards of care and support to residents and tenants, Lisieux Trust is taking proactive steps to ensure all staff fully understand the new guidelines set forward by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This initiative aims to further enhance the quality of services provided to residents across all Lisieux Trust-operated homes.

Led by the Quality and Compliance Officer, Michelle Bisseker, a comprehensive in-house training programme has been established to acquaint staff with the intricacies of the updated CQC framework. Through these sessions, employees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the new guidelines, ensuring they are equipped to provide exceptional care in accordance with the latest industry standards.

As part of this commitment, Michelle will visit each of the homes operated by Lisieux Trust to engage directly with the Support Workers. These face-to-face discussions will be invaluable for sharing insights, clarifying queries, and fostering a collaborative approach to implementing the new framework.

Under the CQC’s revamped framework, residents are being actively encouraged to contribute personal statements regarding all facets of their care. This encompasses everything from their living conditions and medication regimen to their engagement in activities and work placements. These individual statements will collectively serve as the foundation for Lisieux Trust’s overarching quality standards, ensuring that care is tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of each resident.

It was announced last month that Lisieux Trust has established a dedicated group involving residents from every house the Trust operates (you can read about that here). This forum provides residents with a platform to express their perspectives on various aspects of the Trust’s operations. By continually placing residents at the heart of decision-making, Lisieux Trust reaffirms its unwavering commitment to prioritising individualised care and ensuring that residents’ voices are the most important.

For further information on Lisieux Trust and its commitment to quality care, please visit www.lisieuxtrust.org.uk