A housing support worker from East Lancs has been recognised at a national awards ceremony for helping make the final days of a dying man 'a bit brighter'.

Jariena Patel, known as Jaz, from Blackburn, was a finalist in the End of Life Care category at the Markel 3rd Sector Care awards.

She took to the stage at the Grand Hotel Birmingham along with the other two shortlisted finalists and was congratulated for her achievements by broadcaster Angela Rippon.

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Jaz, who helps people with mental health issues to live independently in their own homes in supported living schemes in Ribble Valley and Hyndburn, was recognised for the support she gave a tenant during his final days after a terminal cancer diagnosis.

During the last few weeks with the tenant, Jaz went out of her way to find out what was important to him and ensure his days were filled with fun activities.

When she learned he enjoyed cooking, she taught him his favourite dishes, spent lots of her own time chatting about his life and past, and arranging outings and activities.

Jaz continued to support her tenant throughout his time in a hospice, arranging visits from tenants and colleagues. She was also instrumental in helping friends, fellow tenants and colleagues through the funeral and following weeks.

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She said: “Making those last few days a bit brighter for everyone was very important to me, and I have very fond memories of our tenant and the time we spent together.

“To be invited to a celebrity ceremony and have my work described as inspirational in front of an audience of people who were all so thoroughly deserving of their nominations was truly special.”

Jaz was previously recognised for her compassion at the Great British Care Awards, where she was a finalist in the palliative care category. Although she did not take home either award, her recognition by the judges was notable in that, unlike other finalists, she is not a specialist in end-of-life care.

“I love my job as a support worker with Making Space, so to be nominated for awards at all, never mind in categories with people who have a lot of specialist training, was such a huge honour.

“When our tenant received his diagnosis it was a tough time for everyone, so all I did was try and make his last days a little bit more special.”

Phil Orton, chief people officer at Making Space, said: “Jaz is the sort of person we all hope our families are cared for by when they need professional help. She doesn’t see care work as a job, she does it because she has genuine care and compassion for the people she works with.

“Helping someone to ensure their final days are filled with brightness is an achievement that not many people can lay claim to. To be recognised for her work is thoroughly deserved.”

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The Markel 3rd Sector Awards are designed to reward the hard work, dedication, innovation and excellence of everyone working in the not-for-profit sector who is making a positive difference to people’s lives.

Organised by Care Management Matters, and developed in conjunction with the National Care Forum, the awards share the work of individuals who support those who need it most.