‘I have never met anyone who shows compassion like this gentleman does’
A community nurse in Sunderland – who embarked on a new career after being a painter and decorator for 20 years – is in line for a national care award.
Adrian Anim, 51, works in the Sunderland Learning Disability Community Treatment Team at Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust and is now a finalist in the Great British Care Awards.
Adrian’s nomination came as a result of feedback given by the mother of a young South Tyneside man with physical and mental health needs.
In her nomination, the local mum said: “I have been dealing with social services for over 20 years as my son is disabled and I have never met anyone who shows compassion like this gentleman does.
“Adrian was truly amazing with my son, who normally doesn’t like other people in our house, but Adrian nearly had me in tears over how understanding and caring he was with him.”
She added: “To see my son so happy around him was a day I will remember for a very long time.”
Adrian won the Social Care Nurse category at the North East regional Great British Care Awards, which also secured him a place in the nation final.
Adrian had worked as a decorator for 20 years before deciding to switch careers and become a nurse at 40.
He said: “I had been decorating some homes for people with learning disabilities, and I absolutely loved being around them, engaging with them.
"I spent more time talking than painting!
“I decided to work as a support worker before applying to university to qualify as a nurse.
"Having no qualifications, I went to evening classes to gain what I needed to be accepted onto the course.”
He added: “I’m part of a great and very supportive team.
"I love meeting with patients, families, and care staff and most importantly, I love seeing the positive impact our work can have on people.
“Being nominated for this award is something that I’m very proud of.
"Any role in the care sector can be tough at times, but also so fulfilling.”