A care and support provider for adults in Brecon and the surrounding areas was recently named Small Employer of the Year at the Cambrian Training Awards.

The awards hosted at the Metropole Hotel in Llandrindod Wells recognised individuals and employers across Wales who have excelled within the apprenticeship programmes that Cambrian Training Company deliver on behalf of the Welsh Government.

Silver Assist Homecare has been running for nearly two and a half years and were announced as winners at the awards ceremony on Tuesday, June 3, after being nominated by their apprenticeship partner, Apprenticeship Wales.

The nomination came after one of Silver Assist’s learners had told their assessor about the initiatives the company has to promote a cohesive team and the lengths they go to, to make sure their staff know how great they are.

Upon winning the award, a spokesperson for Silver Assist Homecare said: “We were absolutely over the moon to even be considered and to be named as a finalist. Honestly, we didn’t expect to win —we were up against some amazing and inspirational organisations.

“We wanted to share the evening with some of our staff that have either just completed their apprenticeship or nearing the end as an opportunity to let our hair down and have a bit of fun, so when we heard our name called we were genuinely shocked and chuffed to bits!

“While we were proud to be named a Top Home Care Provider of the Year in Wales last year, this was actually the first award ceremony we have attended since opening — so it’s a real milestone for us.”

The company helps people maintain their independence and quality of life at home. Their support ranges from companionship and a helping hand with daily routines, to assistance with medication or meals. Since everyone’s needs are different, the company tailor their care to each person and what they hope to achieve from using the service.

Speaking about the importance of staff and apprenticeships, the Silver Assist spokesperson said: “Confidence is key, so being a cheerleader for your staff, especially when they are navigating something new and potentially daunting like an apprenticeship, helps them feel like they have a support network and can achieve anything they set their mind to, which is absolutely the case!

“I just want to say that the heart of our business is our staff. Their unwavering commitment and compassion toward our clients every single day is remarkable. We feel incredibly lucky to have such a dedicated team, and we definitely wouldn’t be where we are without them. This award is very much a team effort and a celebration of all they do.”

At the awards ceremony, Cambrian Training Company’s managing director, Faith O’Brien, said: “This year’s awards ceremony was a testament to the dedication, passion and hard work of our apprentices, employers and supporters. From the Apprentice of the Year awards to the recognition of outstanding employers and individuals, each accolade reflects the transformative power of apprenticeships in shaping careers and communities.”