Active Care Group has been shortlisted as a finalist in four categories at this year’s National Learning Disabilities & Autism Awards. The awards celebrate excellence in supporting people with learning disabilities and aim to pay tribute to individuals or organisations that excel in providing quality care.
Active Care Group has been recognised in the following categories:
- The People’s Award (Team)
Conifer Lodge, our residential service for adults with learning disabilities and autism in Cambridgeshire, has been nominated for its exceptional encouragement and support for people with learning disabilities or autism.
Under the leadership of Registered Manager Nina Bailey, Conifer Lodge has consistently received high praise, including back-to-back CQC ‘Outstanding’ ratings. The team’s ethos centres on enabling people to live their best lives through creativity, collaboration, and an unshakable belief in individual potential.
One example of this approach is The Conifer Arms – a pub built on-site during the COVID-19 pandemic in response to residents missing local outings. Funded through garden events, the pub has become a place where residents can socialise, build skills, and take ownership. They manage stock, serve drinks, and practise communication in a safe, familiar setting.
- The Great Autism Practice Award (Team)
Conifer Lodge has been nominated for demonstrating good practice in its services and support for people with autism. The nomination also recognises the service’s ability to blend clinical standards with a deeply human approach to care.
The judges highlighted the team’s consistent efforts to ensure each resident feels heard, respected, and empowered. Whether strengthening family relationships, promoting independence, or creating tailored experiences like The Conifer Arms, the team’s work has made a measurable difference.
- The Manager Award
The Manager Award will celebrate a manager who has demonstrated a high level of expertise, exceptional skills in leadership and management, great support for colleagues and a positive commitment to person-centred support.
Brian Squires, Registered Manager at Prospect Court is nominated for his unwavering commitment to person-centred care, service excellence and visionary leadership. What truly sets Brian apart is his deep respect for the voices and choices of people with learning disabilities and autism. He leads with empathy, fostering an inclusive environment where dignity, independence, and personal achievement are prioritised every day.
- The Sporting Chance Award
The Sporting Chance Award nominees are for a person or team that has worked creatively to develop sporting activities in which people with learning disabilities and/or autism can choose to participate and enjoy themselves.
Activity Coordinator Debbie Pledge at Conifer Lodge is recognised for promoting inclusion through sport. Her bespoke Sports Day, now an annual highlight, ensures every resident has a chance to shine. Activities are tailored to individual preferences and abilities, creating a meaningful experience for everyone involved. Debbie’s approach has helped sport become a source of joy, confidence, and community at the service.
At Moorpark Place, our residential service for adults with autism and learning disabilities in North Ayrshire, Senior Support Worker Guy Busby and resident Sean have also been nominated for a remarkable journey of resilience and achievement.
What began with local walks during the pandemic has grown into an inspiring mountain-climbing partnership.
Guy and Sean have tackled several Munros, including Ben Lomond and The Cobbler, and recently reached the summit of Ben Nevis. Their story reflects physical accomplishment and the transformation in Sean’s confidence and well-being. They now have their sights set on completing the National Three Peaks Challenge, with Snowdon next on their list.
Being recognised across multiple categories is a proud moment for Active Care Group. It highlights our team’s passion and creativity as they work daily to empower the individuals we support and our residents. We’re thrilled to see our values reflected in these nominations and look forward to celebrating with others in the sector at the awards ceremony at the ICC Birmingham on Friday, July 4th, 2025.
Congratulations to all our nominees!