A Salford woman has said she is “still in shock” after being named the winner of a prestigious national award recognising her inspiring work as a social care worker.
Local social care worker, Stacy Mckeown from Lower Broughton has been recognised for her journey as an adult learner by the Get the Nation Learning campaign. The campaign celebrated the power of lifelong learning to change lives, strengthen communities and support better work.
On Wednesday November 4 she collected her award at the ceremony in London and she said she’s “still in shock” after being selected for the Patron award by British Royalty.
Stacy said: “If you’d told me 14 years ago that I’d be receiving an award from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in London, I’d have asked if you had the right person.
“Looking back at where I started and where I am now, it’s been quite a journey. Learning through the Future Jobs Fund gave me opportunities I never imagined possible, and I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who believed in me along the way.
“I’m especially proud that my daughter has seen first-hand that you don’t need to have everything figured out, you just need the courage to keep going.”
The Chief Executive of Learning and Work institute, Stephen Evans said that Stacy has shown how learning can enable people to fulfil their potential and make a difference.
He said: “We are thrilled that she is our Patron’s Award winner.”
Salford City Council also took the time to congratulate Stacy on her achievement.
Councillor Michele Barnes Lead member for Skills, Work, Workforce and Industrial relations said: “We are incredibly proud that her achievements have been recognised on a national stage, and we hope her journey inspires others across Salford to believe in their own potential.”
Stacy’s journey hasn’t always been easy but that hasn’t stopped her.
She added: “I hope my story shows other young mums that having children doesn’t mean your dreams stop. Sometimes you have to take the long way round, but with determination, hard work and a bit of belief in yourself, and from others, you can achieve far more than you ever thought possible.”
