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Award for man who turned
his life around
A Southport man who turned over a
new leaf to put his troubled past behind him has received an award in
recognition of his achievement. Tom Wilson received the Moore Award for
Personal Achievement at Adullam Homes' Moore Awards, in recognition of his
personal journey.
Launched in 2013, the Moore Awards recognise the work and inspirational
tales of service users and residents, as well as staff, volunteers and
students working for, or receiving treatment from socially-conscious housing
association Adullam Homes.
In 2010, a then 25 year old Tom was jailed by Liverpool Crown Court
following a blaze at his former residence after a disagreement with his
landlord.
After leaving prison Tom moved into supported accommodation with Adullam
and, with the help of support workers Steven Floyd and Phil Mackie, set out
to make amends for his prior behaviour. They worked with Tom to identify the
changes he needed to make in order to stay on the straight and narrow.
As part of his personal journey, Steven and Phil, along with Tom's
step father Bruce Soden, accompanied Tom on a 25 mile charity bike ride to
raise almost £300 for 'Action for Children' a charity that ran the Westdene
children's home where Tom spent a portion of his childhood.
Tom said:- "The Moore Awards were an amazing experience for me. I took
part in a play in front of everyone at the beginning of the ceremony. I
wouldn't have had the confidence do that 18 months ago.
It's a great feeling to know that my journey has been noticed by the staff.
After an amazing few months winning this award is the icing on the cake for
me.
I would like to thank all the staff at Adullam Homes for their support and
guidance. They've helped me turn my life around. I feel like a new person.
And new Tom is definitely here to stay."
Janet Taylor, regional manager for Adullam Homes in Merseyside, said:-
"The Moore Awards are an opportunity for us to highlight and reward the
great achievements of our staff, residents and service users, of which Tom
is a prime example. He has come a long way from when he first started
working with us. His commitment to keep up a better, healthier lifestyle has
impressed us all. But it is the change in his confidence that has impressed
us the most. He definitely deserves his Personal Achievement award." |
