A WELLBEING practitioner from Warrington has been recognised nationally for her exceptional contribution to social care, winning at the prestigious Great British Care Awards.
Lisa Coates-Peers, senior psychological wellbeing practitioner for national social care charity Making Space, headquartered in Warrington, was named winner of The Putting People First Award at the national finals held in Birmingham.
Her national success follows recognition at the North West regional finals in November.
Lisa was recognised for her exceptional commitment to personalisation, advocacy and inclusive practice, ensuring that every individual’s voice is heard, respected and central to their care. Judges praised her outstanding impact, commenting: “Lisa, who supports formerly institutionalised individuals, brings exceptional skill, patience and humanity. Her insight guides people safely into everyday care and support, restoring dignity, confidence and stability. Through thoughtful assessment, advocacy and steadfast professionalism, she creates pathways to independence and improved wellbeing, making a profound, lasting difference in every life she touches.”
Lisa exemplifies Making Space’s belief that people must be at the heart of everything. Alongside her clinical role, she acts as the service’s LGBTQ+ Champion and plays an active role within the organisation’s EDI Ambassadors Group, using her lived experience to help shape more accessible and representative services.
Her innovations include developing a non-verbal screening tool for neurodiverse clients and creating practical resources to support clinicians in adapting care for people living with long-term conditions.
Lisa said: “This award isn’t just mine, it belongs to everyone working to make real change so people feel seen, heard and valued. I’ll keep using my role to challenge inequity, amplify voices that too often go unheard and turn good intentions into everyday practice.”
Lydia Woodall, head of Community Carers and Wellbeing at Making Space, added:
“We are all so incredibly proud of Lisa for winning this award. She truly embodies what this recognition stands for and demonstrates every day the importance of providing personalised support. Lisa consistently champions the voices of the people who draw on our support, ensuring our services adapt to meet individual need.”
Making Space also celebrated wider national success at this year’s awards, with colleagues recognised across multiple categories, including additional national finalists and a hghly ommended accolade. The organisation was also shortlisted for The Care Employer Award, reflecting its compassionate and inclusive culture.
Rachel Peacock, CEO of Making Space, said: “These awards mean so much because they recognise the genuine care and heart our teams bring to their roles every day. I am absolutely thrilled for Lisa, along with our other winners and finalists. This is a truly well-deserved recognition of her passion, integrity and unwavering commitment to putting people first.
“Lisa’s work changes lives. She ensures that people feel seen, valued and empowered, even in the most challenging circumstances. Her national win is a fantastic achievement and a real moment of pride for Warrington and for the whole Making Space organisation.”
Making Space provides care, support and wellbeing services for people living with mental health conditions, learning disabilities, dementia and complex needs, as well as their families and carers. For more information, visit makingspace.co.uk.
