Thu Sep 19 15:47:00 UTC 2024: ## Former Teacher Wins “Oscars of Social Care” Nomination for Kindness at Care Home
**Ystradgynlais, Wales** – A former schoolteacher has been nominated for a prestigious award recognizing his outstanding work at a local care home. Linley Jenkins, who retired from his role as assistant head at Bishop Vaughan Catholic School in Swansea, has been nominated for the “Outstanding Service” award at the 2024 Wales Care Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of Social Care.”
Jenkins, who was hired as a maintenance operative at Cwrt Enfys residential home in 2020, has gone above and beyond his duties. While he maintains the 98-bed facility and ensures its safety, Jenkins also takes the time to connect with residents, learning their likes and dislikes and engaging them in conversation. He often brings residents a cup of tea and chats with them, especially those who might be feeling lonely.
“He doesn’t need to interact with residents, but he’s made it his mission to get to know them,” said Lindsey Davies, the home manager, who nominated Jenkins for the award. “He is just the nicest, kindest person around.”
Jenkins, who has a passion for practical handicrafts, says he enjoys his role at Cwrt Enfys. “I was lucky to retire early, and I knew I had a fairly good skills profile after years of doing odd jobs,” he said. “I started as a maintenance assistant on a casual basis at Cwrt Enfys. Then I was offered a permanent part-time role which I love.”
The Wales Care Awards, organized by Care Forum Wales, aim to recognize the dedication and hard work of those in the social care sector. Mario Kreft MBE, Chair of Care Forum Wales, emphasized that the awards celebrate “the unstinting, often remarkable dedication of our unsung heroes and heroines on the front line of social care.”
Linley Jenkins’ nomination stands as a testament to the impact that kindness and compassion can have within a care home setting, demonstrating that dedication to residents goes far beyond traditional job roles.