We’re not even half way through the year and SJOG is already celebrating a number of awards, nominations and commendations – another strong reflection of the exceptional people at SJOG and the high-quality services we deliver. 
Housing with Care Awards – Senior Leader Award
Linda, SJOG’s Head of Operations South was named a finalist and received ‘highly22222222222 commended’ by judges. They praised her ‘remarkable career defined by compassion and innovation’, noting her tireless advocacy for improving supported living environments, pioneering inclusive community-focused care models for people with complex needs.
The Learning Disability and Autism Awards – People’s Award
Matthew has been shortlisted in this category for his work at Woodhall as an expert by experience which includes Matthew’s work on developing user-friendly support plans and the co-production of a dignity audit for the service.
Service Manager of the Year
Miggy, Service Manager at The Minims in Hertfordshire has been shortlisted in this category for her exceptional leadership and dedication. She consistently goes above and beyond in delivering outstanding care and support to those in her service.
And Here to Help, our suicide prevention programme, which already picked up a European Innovation Award, has also been shortlisted in the Learning Disability and Autism Awards.
In addition, Suzi our activity co-ordinator at St Paul’s has been short-listed dedication to her role and ‘bringing the service to life with her energy and her innovative ideas’. The whole team at St Paul’s have also reached the finals for the End-of-Life Palliative Care Team award – a recognition of their compassionate and dignified approach in this area.
Unsung Hero Award – Teesside Student Futures
One of our brilliant volunteers (and now a permanent member of the team), Meryem, has been honoured with the Unsung Hero Award for her work on our Here to Help project.
Meryem’s commitment to supporting autistic individuals and their families has made a real and lasting impact.
As a volunteer, Meryem has gone above and beyond in our work around autism and suicide prevention, contributing through one-to-one support, drop-in sessions, and co-facilitating professional training.
Huge congratulations to everyone recognised so far this year!
June 2025