A police officer turned housing worker is in the running for a national award in recognition of his work with young people who live in supported accommodation in Holmfirth.
Tony Linney, from Netherton, has been shortlisted in the Frontline Leader category of the Housing With Care Awards. The national awards are being held for the first time this year to recognise and celebrate excellence in supported and extra care housing.
Tony works for Huddersfield Road supported housing, which offers stable homes to young people aged 18 to 25 and supports them to develop relationships and to be part of their local community. It is operated by national adult health and social care charity Making Space, in partnership with Kirklees Council.
Tony joined the team as a support worker in 2021 and has been acting team leader since the end of 2022.
The Frontline Leader award recognises a senior member of staff who has shown a clear commitment to improving care and support.
Strong leadership qualities that support others to bring about positive change will be important elements for the judges in deciding who takes home the trophy. Winners will be announced at a ceremony at the London Marriott Hotel on Grosvenor Square on June 9.
Tony said: “It’s always nice to be recognised for the work we do at Huddersfield Road. I’m just one part of a small but dedicated team who take a great deal of pride in excelling in everything they do.”
Service manager Sajeed Daji, who nominated Tony for the award, says he is a valued member of the team with a wealth of knowledge and experience.
He added: “Tony is passionate about working with young people and is their greatest advocate.
“He will always stand up for their rights and do everything he can to ensure their needs are met and voices heard.
“He’s worked in a range of health and social care settings throughout his working life, as a police officer and as a support worker with people with learning disabilities, and happily shares his experience with colleagues and young people to help them achieve their goals and aspirations.
“He helps to rebuild family relationships, improve understanding of mental health issues, arranges volunteering opportunities to boost skills and employment opportunities, and engages with drug and alcohol services to advocate for young people and ensure they are treated with respect.”
Jenny MacLeod, Yorkshire head of operations, Making Space, said: “Tony leads by example, arranging and taking part in fitness programmes, walking groups and bike riding classes – he won’t encourage anyone to do something he wouldn’t be happy to do himself.
“He fully deserves to win this award – he has put his heart and soul into this service and the young people who use it.”
