January Employee of the Month

Our first Employee of the Month for 2024 is Adekunle Busari, a new Support Worker at DCA West Bromwich. His enthusiasm is already blazing a trail. Well done, Adekunle!

With three glowing nominations for the accolade of Employee of the Month, Adekunle’s impact and positive approach to support work impressed our judges. His person-centred approach and humour have been a pleasure to witness. He is proving to be a valuable and popular member of the team, liked by both people he supports and fellow workers.

Providing safe but fun care and support, Adekunle is quickly getting to know each person supported by DCA West Bromwich, showing dedication and empathy. His effective communication encourages people to participate in life skills as well as accessing the community.

Making a difference

Practice Lead, Natalie Walford, said: “Adekunle shows he values each and every person he supports. He actively listens in order to learn more about them and makes sure he utilises this to maximise independence and choice. This helps him achieve results by making things happen.

“We witnessed him with a person we support playing with musical bells in order to gain/build trust and engagement. This lightened up the room as everyone present was smiling and enjoying the moment. Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.”

Manager, Laura Winmill, said: “Adekunle supported people on Christmas day to enjoy their time together and going out for a special Christmas meal. The pictures we received were amazing to see and made proud.”

Furthermore, Adekunle is picking up additional shifts. He is also supporting when people are admitted to hospital and communicating effectively with his team and management. Nothing is too much trouble – he is open and always willingness to learn and provide the best care and support.

On receiving the award, Adekunle said: “I’m very happy to be picked as Employee of the month, it is a great privilege and motivation for me to do more. I promise to put more effort and commitment to what I have been doing. Thank you for this opportunity and I promise not to let you down.”

Runners up

Shahanaz Begum Ali, Support Worker at supported living homes in Essex and Isidor Bento, Deputy Manager at a supported living home in Oxfordshire are our two January runners up for Employee of the month.

Shaz receives praise for reflecting our values of Making things happen, Being brave, Valuing everyone and Having fun. She recently supported people living at neighbouring locations in Essex, including those receiving outreach support, to share Christmas Day together. Not only did she bring food items, Shaz bought presents and arranged party games.

As well as his fantastic work ethic, Isidor is singled out for his key worker support of a person who has lost both parents this year, guiding them through grief, listening and advising. A family member also highlighted what a ‘thoughtful and wonderful’ person he is.