A “COMMITTED” manager at a charity hailed for giving people a voice has seen her hard work and dedication recognised at a glittering awards ceremony.

Ruth Wellum’s passion and selflessness saw her quickly rise through the ranks at Cartrefi Ni Ltd in St Asaph after a previous career in childminding.

The organisation helps people with learning disabilities live active, independent and fulfilling lives.

Ruth’s “exceptional” contribution to the team has led to the 55-year-old from Towyn scooping a prestigious accolade for her efforts at the 2022 Wales Care Awards, dubbed the “Oscars of social care”.

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The grandmother-of-two took the silver gong for the leading practice in learning disability and mental health services award, with the category being sponsored by Amaya Care.

The event in Cardiff was hosted by tenor and radio presenter Wynne Evans, better known as Gio Compario from the Go Compare TV ads.

Ruth joined the not-for-profit organisation in 2014 after moving to the region from Sheffield.

She was shortlisted after her line managers and colleagues cited the “amazing commitment” she showed following an outbreak of COVID-19 in one house which involved three tenants and two staff testing positive for the coronavirus.

Her dedication saw her go “above and beyond her role”, working outside of her normal office hours, supporting family members and sacrificing her own personal time.

Support worker, Helen Grimston, said: “Ruth shows true dedication to the job, often working extended hours to ensure that any complications or issues are resolved in the best possible way.

“Ruth is an inspiration to all team members and is extremely approachable, no matter whether it is a personal or work issue.

“Ruth freely passes on her wealth of knowledge and is truly amazing.

“There is no doubt that Ruth puts others before herself and is the epitome of what working within social care is all about.”

Ruth said: “I started working here after a career both as a childminder and supporting childminders with a local authority, so I’ve always been in a caring role.

“This is totally different but I love it, it’s brilliant. I just come in and do my job, but to be recognised for it feels amazing.”