Award recognises teen’s positive pandemic efforts
A 17-YEAR-OLD from Carmarthen has been presented with a national Teen Hero Award by BBC Radio 1 presenter Greg James in recognition of his work and the positive impact he has had on people during the pandemic.
In response to the radio station’s nationwide call for Inspirational Teenager Award nominations, Will Jones, a trainee physiotherapy technician at Carmarthen’s Glangwili
Hospital, was nominated by his girlfriend, Tayla.
He then received the surprise news live on BBC Radio 1’s Breakfast Show.
Will joined the Apprenticeship Academy scheme run by Hywel Dda University Health Board over a year ago.
When Covid-19 turned the world upside down, he stepped up to help frontline worker.
Greg asked Will about his experience of working in health care during the pandemic and he replied: “It’s so rewarding to be part of our patients’ journeys and getting them back to some normality.
“The team really pull together and we support each other through it.”
Will was also rewarded on the programme with personal messages from as a
Scarlets and Wales hooker Ken Owens and sports presenter Eddie Butler, thanking him for his optimism, focus, selflessness, and inspirational hard work.
Physiotherapist Tom Miles, who worked with Will, said: “Will has been with us as a physiotherapy technician through last year and has worked tirelessly on our medical and stroke wards.
“He is always there for any team or ward who needs him.
“He has shown great resilience and integrity during these uncertain times and he has helped numerous patients through rehabilitation and discharge so they can get home safely.”
Lisa Gostling, director of workforce and organisational development at HDUHB also praised Will’s efforts and said: “This is such a proud moment for Will and his
family, and also for his colleagues in the physiotherapy service and the health board as a whole.
“Will is a great role model for other young people and has inspired others during these challenging times.
“We applaud this welldeserved recognition and hope it encourages others to think about the opportunities being a health care apprentice could bring for them.”
Hywel Dda University Health Board will launch its next Apprenticeship Academy programme in January.