Lisieux Trust Support Worker Romeo Stanley has been shortlisted for the Best Newcomer Award at this year’s Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards, recognising the impact he has made during his first year working in social care.

The awards, which take place in Birmingham later this month, celebrate excellence across the learning disability and autism sector, highlighting individuals and organisations that make a positive difference to people’s lives.

For Romeo, the nomination came as a complete surprise.

“When I got told I was nominated, it was a huge surprise to be honest,” he said. “I don’t know really. I just come to work, support the guys as best as I can, try and be myself and have a laugh with them.”

Romeo joined Lisieux Trust just over a year ago, marking his first role in social care. Before joining the Trust, he worked at a primary school as a sports coach, behaviour mentor and teaching assistant before spending a year at Jaguar Land Rover.

It was a recommendation from a member of our existing staff that first brought the role to his attention.

“Originally they told me about the job, and I just applied, did my interview and got in,” Romeo explained. “I didn’t really know what to expect.”

Although he anticipated the role would be challenging, he quickly discovered a career he genuinely enjoys.

“I thought it would be a lot more challenging and I didn’t think I’d enjoy it as much as I do,” he said. “I just didn’t expect to enjoy it this much. I can actually enjoy what I do.”

Despite his modesty about the nomination, Romeo believes the relationships he has built over the past year are among his proudest achievements.

“I’d say the relationships that I’ve built,” he said. “I feel like I’ve built a good relationship with the tenants and a good relationship with the people that I work with as well.”

That ability to build trust and strong connections has made him a popular figure among both colleagues and the people he supports. During his interview, tenant Irina – who was in the room –  was quick to offer her verdict when asked what Romeo is like as a Support Worker.

“He’s great,” she said.

The Best Newcomer category recognises people who have made an exceptional contribution during the early stages of their care career, and Romeo’s nomination reflects the positive impression he has made since arriving at the Trust.

Looking ahead, he is focused on continuing to develop both personally and professionally.

“Just progress really,” he said. “Just be the best version of myself, be the best person I can be.”

Romeo also hopes his experience will encourage others who may be considering a career in care.

“I’d say go for it because you might think it’s something that you wouldn’t enjoy and then you turn out to actually love doing what you’re doing,” he said. “You might think one thing and then it turns out to be another. Don’t judge a book by its cover.”

As he prepares for the awards ceremony, Romeo was keen to thank those who have supported him throughout his first year.

“I just want to thank whoever nominated me, thank the tenants I support, especially Irina, and thank the Support Workers I work with day in and day out.”