A CHARITY celebrated hard work, commitment, compassion and dedication when working with or volunteering with disabled children at a recent awards ceremony.
Building for the Future (BftF) honoured winners at a Dinner and Awards Night held at Sonning Golf Club.
Guests enjoyed a three-course dinner before the evening’s highlight; the presentation of six awards and one special recognition.
A raffle organised by BftF trustee Karen Woolford raised more than £1,000 for the charity.
More than 80 attendees, including SEND parents, sponsors, nominees, and special guests Cllr Carol Jewell, Mayor of Wokingham, and Clive Jones MP for Wokingham gathered for an evening of inspiration, gratitude and celebration.
Clive Jones, presenting several awards, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be here to meet some of the remarkable people who are making such a big difference to the lives of disabled children and young people across Berkshire.
“Everyone nominated has made a huge difference through giving their time and compassion without expecting anything in return.
“This evening is about giving something back to those who help in such a big way.”
The BftF Awards recognise professionals and volunteers who go above and beyond in their work with disabled children and young people, highlighting excellence in care, education, activity provision and therapeutic support.
This year’s award winners were:
Best Teacher: Sam Casella, Kennel Lane School
Best Teaching Assistant: Aneela Khan, Kennel Lane School
Best Medical Professional: Claudia Wilson
Best Activity Provider: Jenna Keens, Together One Step at a Time
Best Therapist: Deborah Smith, Occupational Therapist
Best Volunteer: Daisy Cripps
Building for the Future Special Award: Rebecca Durrant, Short Breaks Officer, Bracknell Forest Council
Rebecca Durrant said: “It’s been a brilliant night and I was blown away by the nomination made by one of the parents.
“I don’t know who they are but I’d like to thank them for taking the time out to write that about me.
“It’s so overwhelming but amazing to have someone recognise what you do day-to-day.”
Cllr Carol Jewell, Mayor of Wokingham Borough, praised the dedication of volunteers.
She said: “What a room full of people who do so much for others.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of charities like this, and without them they simply wouldn’t run.
“I’m really honoured to have chosen Building for the Future as my Mayoral charity — it’s a truly great organisation helping so many people.
“Tonight’s awards show appreciation for those who go the extra mile.”
Jane Holmes, CEO of Building for the Future added: “It’s been a really successful awards evening.
“Well done to all of our finalists, winners, and runners-up.”
The event was hosted by Andy Briggs, destination director at The Oracle Reading, who also served as MC for the night.
The charity thanks sponsors and supporters Macbeth Insurance Brokers, Matrix Fitness, Athena Network, TradeMark Windows, and the Rotary Club of Maiden Erlegh.
