Katie Hook wins ‘Apprentice of the Year’ at GM Health & Care Champions Awards for Outstanding Frontline Work during Pandemic

“I was in my living room watching the event virtually and in total shock. When it sunk in, I was jumping around with my Mum, Dad and dog.”

This was Katie Hook’s reaction when she heard her name announced at the GM Health & Care Champion Awards. After working continually throughout the Covid-19 pandemic in a frontline care home, Katy was awarded ‘Apprentice of the Year’ and couldn’t have been happier with the result.

The event saw 13 different awards recognising the different but equally important contributions of the health and care colleagues across Greater Manchester. Awards were given to community champions, those who have driven innovation, volunteers, leaders at any level and those who have helped improve the wellbeing of those around them during such a challenging year.

The ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award was looking to be awarded to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the people of Greater Manchester, who has gone over and above expectations and their role as an apprentice (maybe taking on a different role to support our health and care system) and has demonstrated dedication to their development during a challenging time.

Katie started her apprenticeship in 2019 at Etherstone Day Centre after completing supported employment. Not long after starting her apprenticeship, the Covid-19 pandemic surfaced. Katy very quickly had to adapt to not only the new role, but the new restrictions presented to her by the pandemic.

“I had a lot of challenges, but was very grateful for my role as Activities Co-ordinator. This involved facilitating various workshops with the residents, including crafts, bingo, memory games and more. I also supported with one-to-one care, helped with feeding and personal care.”

Left to Right: Fiona Walker, Health & Social Care Trainer Assessor, Katie Hook, Susan Hilton, Delivery Leader for Health, Social & Childcare, Allan Milne, Director of Business Development & Apprenticeships

During the difficulties of the pandemic, Katie also covered for other members of staff, saying: “I tried my best. At one point, I was worried I was not able to continue. I have ADHD, autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia. But with the help of my employer and the College, adaptations were made so that I could continue. I have just submitted my final unit!”

If you want to learn more about our Health & Social Care apprenticeships, contact us on 0161 631 5555 or email apprenticeships@salfordcc.ac.uk.