A Warrington-based social care charity has celebrated staff achievements after several colleagues from the region were recognised at its national awards ceremony.
Local winners recognised at national event
Making Space, whose head office is on Allen Street in Warrington, held its Colleague Awards 2026 at The Queens Hotel in Leeds on 10 July. The event acknowledged employees and volunteers from across the charity for outstanding work supporting people who draw on its services and for contributions behind the scenes.
More than 250 nominations were received for this year’s awards. Among the national winners was Annette Taylor, the property services manager who works from the Warrington head office. Ms Taylor took the Behind the Scenes prize for her role in ensuring properties are maintained, safe and welcoming for both service users and staff.
"For me, being nominated was special. Knowing that I am doing a good job means the world to me."
The judges and colleagues praised Ms Taylor not only for property management but also for her involvement in fundraising activity: building supplier relationships, encouraging sponsorship and volunteering time to raise additional funds.
Team and learner awards from the North West
Other winners from the North West region were also celebrated. The awards highlighted both individual development and team provision in the area, including contributions from residential services and day activities.
- Rivacre House, Ellesmere Port — Team of the Year
- Annie Alexander — Learner of the Year
- Joanne Lee, Kingshill Residential, Standish — Community I (shortlisted/recognised)
Leaders at Making Space underlined that the recognition reflected not just the named winners but the commitment of their wider teams.
"This award is a fitting recognition of the care, expertise and dedication she brings to her role," said Keri Smith, chief of business strategy and development at Making Space.
Local impact and next steps
For Warrington residents who rely on Making Space services, the awards underline the emphasis the charity places on maintaining safe, well-run premises and on developing staff skills. Managers say that recognition helps morale and demonstrates the value of the work done away from front-line delivery.
| Winner | Role | Award |
|---|---|---|
| Annette Taylor | Property Services Manager (Warrington) | Behind the Scenes |
| Rivacre House team | Residential Team (Ellesmere Port) | Team of the Year |
| Annie Alexander | Learner (North West) | Learner of the Year |
Making Space provides a range of social care services and the organisation’s leadership said the awards were an opportunity to thank staff and volunteers whose work often goes unseen.
For local employees and volunteers, the national recognition may also strengthen internal efforts to secure resources, improve facilities and maintain standards across the Warrington estate. Colleagues said they hoped the publicity surrounding the awards would also encourage more community involvement and support for future fundraising initiatives.
