Lisieux Trust is proud to celebrate Operations Manager Alison O’Meara, who has been nominated for an Outstanding ContributionAward at the Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards. It is a fitting recognition for someone whose career has been defined not by titles or accolades, but by the lasting difference she has made to the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism, their families, and the colleagues she has supported along the way.

Alison’s career in social care began more than 35 years ago. She was just 16 when she started working in the sector and, by 18, had become Registered Manager of her first house. Reflecting on those early days, Alison said: “I was 16 when I started, and by 18 I was a Registered Manager of my first house, looking after people who were way older than me.” Despite the scale of her experience, her motivation remains simple. “All I ever do is try and put the needs of the people I support first,” she says — a modest summary of a career that has touched countless lives.

Nominated by Registered Manager Denise Barrett, Alison’s contribution is best understood through the consistent, deeply personal impact she has on those around her. For Denise, Alison’s support goes far beyond professional leadership. “She’s there for everyone,” Denise explains. “Not just for staff teams, but for residents, tenants and families as well. She’s always available, always responsive — you know she genuinely cares.”

That care is not occasional; it is constant. Denise recalls the support Alison gave her during one of the most difficult periods of her life. “When my partner was going through cancer treatment during COVID, there wasn’t a day Alison didn’t check in with me,” she says. “I never had to ask for support. She just knew — and she was there.” During that time, Alison encouraged Denise to attend appointments, ensured she could focus on what mattered most, and later recognised the emotional toll it had taken. “She realised I’d used all my annual leave supporting my partner and hadn’t actually had a break,” Denise explains. “So she made sure I was able to take additional leave. That’s who she is — she looks after people properly.”

That same compassion is reflected in Alison’s leadership. Fellow Registered Manager Hayley Watson highlights the loyalty and trust Alison inspires across teams and organisations. “Everywhere she’s worked, people follow her,” Hayley says. “Not because they have to, but because of how she leads, how she treats people, and the standards she sets.” Hayley has seen colleagues choose to work alongside Alison again and again, drawn by her integrity and her people-first approach. “People don’t just respect her — they trust her completely,” she adds. “You can see why. Her leadership is grounded in genuine care.”

Both Denise and Hayley emphasise that Alison’s impact is not limited to big moments. It is built through consistent, everyday actions: checking in after a difficult day, reminding a colleague to look after their wellbeing, offering support without being asked, and making sure residents, tenants and families feel heard. “She’ll message to check in, or remind you to take care of yourself,” Hayley says. “It might seem like a small thing, but it makes a huge difference.” These moments create a culture in which people feel seen, valued and safe — and that, in itself, is a remarkable legacy.

Despite the admiration she inspires, Alison remains humble, often downplaying the difference she makes. For Denise, that humility is one of the reasons this nomination matters so much.

Together, these reflections paint a clear picture: Alison’s contribution is not defined by a single achievement, but by a lifetime of showing up for others — consistently, compassionately and without seeking recognition.

Lisieux Trust’s former CEO Jess Alsop-Greenacre has also spoken warmly about Alison’s impact. As one of her last acts as CEO, she said: “I am thrilled that Alison is a finalist for the Outstanding Contribution Award. This is so well deserved, as Alison has changed the lives of so many people with learning disabilities and autism throughout her career. Having worked with her across two organisations, I have seen that her personal connection to the people we support is built on empathy, fun and a fierce determination to ensure they have access to every opportunity possible. She has also supported countless families and friends to navigate the often difficult journey of finding a suitable placement and is endlessly praised for her kindness during these times. She is a supportive and inspiring leader who gets to know everyone she manages and oversees, and is always willing to listen and lend a hand. I cannot think of anyone more worthy of this award.”

Interim CEO Emma Hodges has also seen those values in action. She said: “What is absolutely clear when you meet and spend time with Al are her values. She doesn’t expect her team to do anything she wouldn’t do herself; she always puts the needs of residents and tenants first, and she is committed to supporting families through the transitions they face when their loved one moves into supported living or residential care. I feel really lucky, as a new Interim CEO, to have Al as part of the team. This nomination is very much deserved.”

As Alison looks ahead to Friday’s awards, everyone at Lisieux Trust and far wider will be wishing her the very best. Whatever the outcome, this nomination is a well-earned recognition of a career defined by compassion, commitment and an unwavering belief in putting people first.