A Bradford woman has been shortlisted for an RNIB See Differently Award in recognition of her work supporting people with sensory needs to live well.
Catherine Smith, 49, has been shortlisted in the Eye Care Professional of the Year category. This award acknowledges outstanding health and social care professionals and organisations that demonstrate unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care incorporating both clinical and non-clinical support.
Catherine has been nominated for her work as the manager of a large team in the Bradford Council Sensory Needs Service, where non-statutory services have been developed including regular gardening and cooking groups and a grant-awarding scheme which enables those with sight loss to purchase items to aid independent living such as accessible kitchen equipment or household aids.
This scheme for individuals aims to build on the success of a similar small grants scheme for groups. To date, that scheme has awarded grants totalling £25,000 and has helped a large number of organisations in the local area, including one who were able to recruit 50 new members after using their grant to fund a social event.
Catherine explained: “When colleagues come to me with ideas, I always think 'why not?' I try to create time and space for people to try new things.”
The RNIB See Differently Awards will bring together a host of people across the UK and aims to shine a spotlight on the excellent work happening every day across the UK to support people with sight loss. They will recognise and reward individuals and organisations taking positive action to help break down barriers and make the world a better place for blind and partially sighted people.
RNIB CEO Matt Stringer said: “The RNIB See Differently Awards will celebrate those who dedicate their time, passion, and skills to help build an inclusive world for blind and partially sighted people. Congratulations to the shortlisted national finalists, you’re all fantastic with incredibly moving stories and we wish you the best of luck.”
The RNIB See Differently Awards will recognise exceptional individuals and teams across seven categories: Campaigner of the Year, Eye Care Professional of the Year, Best Content Creator of the Year, Team of the Year, Employer of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and Design for Everyone Award.
The award winners will be announced at a ceremony which will take place at a hotel in Central London on Tuesday 21 May 2024.
