We’re proud to say that Jonathan Gatefield, an ASC Training & Testing Manager at Essex County Council, received a special recognition award at the 2024/25 You Make the Difference Awards. His dedication to improving Adult Social Care in Essex is inspiring. Read on to find out how he felt about receiving the well-deserved recognition.
What does receiving a ‘Special Recognition Award’ mean to you personally?
It is greatly appreciated knowing that our work is not only looked at and recognised, but we are also celebrated for the hard work we have accomplished. I know we don’t do the work to be recognised, but it is still very kind and welcome.
Can you share a key accomplishment that led to this recognition?
I think that my colleagues nominating me as Chairperson for the new Quest Network, overseeing all of the Adult Social Care (ASC) Quests, and speaking at many events, including the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in December, showcases the great work the ASC Quests have done for our staff.
What motivates you to consistently put in such hard work and dedication?
I think because it’s still relevant and you want people not to feel alone. On the ASC Quests, we identified issues affecting our staff, and though we are good in what we do for staff with protected characteristics, we can do better and learn from it. People shared personal, moving feedback, and we have a duty of care to support them. That’s why I feel it’s so important to keep talking about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and to have that dedication for it.
Who has been your biggest support or inspiration in your professional journey?
I’d like to share my recognition with my fellow Quest Lead, Clare Dillon, who was also on the Quest for LGBTQIA+. Because of the vastness, together, we outline our priorities on things to focus on, raise awareness, and organise celebration events like LGBTQIA+ History Month in February and Pride in June. We work on the recommendations that we and our fellow LGBTQIA+ Questers made when we first did our Quest, as ultimately, we want to make a difference and positive change for staff now and in the future.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge for their support?
I’d like to thank my manager, Stephen Hurry, in the System Development team, and Alison Ansell, director and sponsor director of Race and LGBTQIA. Both have been a source of support for me and a credit in what they do in making time for me and resolving issues and barriers.
Want to make a positive difference to residents in Essex?
