Last Friday (20th September) saw our Housekeeping Manager Debs Smith clean up in the Unsung Hero Category at the prestigious Third Sector Awards at the elegant Royal Lancaster Hotel in London’s west end.
Our Unsung Hero
Debs, fought off stiff competition from some very impressive entrants but the win was extremely well deserved as Debs is so much more than a Housekeeping Manager, she’s been an integral part of the fabric of Noah’s Ark since she started in 2022. Her calming, comforting presence is something everyone at The Ark has come to rely on.
Debs’ role anywhere wouldn’t be easy but in a Children’s Hospice, leading a team that is responsible for the cleanliness, infection control and safety for all of the children and families we support is a huge undertaking. Debs is also on the frontline with families, some of whom are going through unimaginable stress and being there for them takes incredible emotional strength and kindness.
Debs knows that the families we support don’t have an overwhelming choice of places they know their child will be safe but they know The Ark is one. She makes The Ark a safer, kinder place to be and put the experiences of the children and families we support at the heart of everything she does.
The Third Sector Awards
The Third Sector awards celebrates the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations operating in the third sector, recognising their tireless efforts and transformative impact. At the heart of the awards lies a profound belief in the power of collective action and the immense value that the third sector brings to our communities. This year’s awards marked a significant milestone — two decades of recognising excellence, innovation, and commitment across the third sector. The 2024 Third Sector Awards shone a spotlight on the industry’s greatest achievements, with leaders and change-makers gathering in their finest to honour the inspirational work being done.
The judges said of Debs’ entry:
“Debs’ care and attention for everyone, both staff and families, at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice shines through in everything that she does. It shows that sometimes small acts of kindness can have the biggest difference to people’s lives.”
Debs Smith said of her win:
“I feel very blessed to have been nominated for this prestigious award in the first place but to go on a win is amazing! Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice is such a great place to work and it’s such an honour to be part of this amazing charity and to help support our children and families.”
Alison Goodman, Noah’s Ark Children’s Charity’s Deputy CEO:
“I’m delighted that Debs has been recognised by winning the prestigious Third Sector Unsung Hero award. It’s wonderful to see her honoured in this way for her invaluable contribution to Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice.”
We’d like to say a HUGE thank you to Debs and the whole housekeeping team – you really are amazing.