Gemma’s work recognised with gong
A BARNSLEY carer who supports refugees and asylum seekers in the town has received a prestigious award.
Gemma Newstead was given the Community Integration Award by Making Space, a charity which employs more than 1,200 people across the UK.
She was presented with a certificate and trophy by Andy Grant, the world’s fastest single leg amputee in the world over 10m, at the awards ceremony in Manchester.
She said: “It is amazing to be recognised for doing the hard work that is necessary to ensure all carers are able to access services. It is a great feeling for me to have been chosen as a deserving person for the Community Integration Award.”
Julia Goddard, who nominated Gemma for the award, said: “Gemma’s dedication, persistence and patience has helped us to ensure asylum seekers, refugees and other people who are new to living in the UK do not miss out on the support we provide.
“She’s worked with other agencies to enable more people to access Barnsley Carers Service, which supports unpaid carers with information, advice, confidential one-to-one support, help with finances and accommodation, group sessions, wellbeing, and much more. She has worked hard on this project on her own initiative and is very passionate about reaching people who would otherwise miss out.”