Special Honours Awards Announced

Four staff members have been awarded British Empire Medals for their efforts during the coronavirus pandemic. 

12 October 2020

School Administration Officer Deborah Crow, Social Worker Louise Jones, Social Services Regional Coordinator Sharon Miller and School Caretaker Adam Clode all received the recognition as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, which was announced this weekend.

This year, there was a special nomination process for people who had made a significant contribution in response to Covid-19. Our Senior Leadership Team felt that it was particularly important that the Vale of Glamorgan Council was represented. 

The individuals who have been awarded medals were nominated by their colleagues.

Deborah, who works at Gladstone Primary School, helped distribute fresh food parcels to families during the pandemic. She personally aided in sourcing, preparing and delivering the packages alongside her normal duties.

Louise helped a team of staff make contact with over 4,000 vulnerable people across the Vale, ensuring they had the appropriate support at the outset of lockdown and whilst they continued shielding.

Adam, a caretaker at Gladstone Primary, has worked every day during the crisis, performing a number of extra tasks, including helping to transport pupils to school.

Sharon was repurposed from her usual role to lead on procuring and distributing PPE for the Council. This role was particularly challenging from the offset due to limited supplies and guidance relating to the equipment.

Cllr Neil Moore, Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: “Since the coronavirus pandemic struck, Council staff have gone above and beyond to ensure the services on which people rely continue to be delivered.

“I’m sure residents across the Vale would join me in thanking frontline staff operating in Education, Neighbourhood Services, Social Care and many other areas for the exceptional work they are doing in extremely challenging circumstances.

“There are a great many Council workers who deserve credit for the commitment they have shown, but these four have been singled out for special recognition.

“I’d like to thank all Council employees for their efforts over the last six seven months and congratulate Deborah, Louise, Adam and Sharon in particular on receiving this honour.”

Rob Thomas, Managing Director, said: “Sincere congratulations to the four deserving staff who have been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

“Throughout this crisis the dedication and selflessness shown by our staff and colleagues, across the organisation in response to Covid-19 has been truly inspiring.

“I’m very proud of that attitude and would again like to pass on my appreciation to all Vale of Glamorgan Council staff for the way in which they have performed during an extremely difficult period.”