Conwy Valley councillor named as local champion

Dec 16 2010 by Ian Hughes, North Wales Weekly News

A CONWY Valley councillor has gained national recognition for her work supporting the needs of older people.

Councillor Liz Roberts was given a national award for her dedicated support in the Conwy Valley area.

Conwy County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health secured the ‘Local Champion’ Award at the 2010 ‘Promoting Independence’ awards.

She was nominated by Mr Kevin Hughes, Director of Care and Support Services for Clwyd Alyn Housing Association who manage the Hafan Gwydir Extra Care Scheme in Llanrwst in partnership with the local authority and the local health board.

He commented: “I am really pleased that Councillor Roberts has secured this prestigious and well deserved award.

“She has continually shown real vision and commitment to the care of older people, promoting innovative solutions that allow older people with a diverse range of care needs to access support at the same time as maintaining independence and dignity.

“Her support at every stage of the development of the new Hafan Gwydir Extra Care facility has really made a real difference in the lives of the residents who are now able to enjoy these excellent facilities.”

Speaking after collecting the award, a very pleased Cllr Roberts attributed the success to the quality of the scheme and the work done around her.

“I’m a true partnership person – that is something I have always believed in.

“Extra Care Housing is a brilliant scheme in promoting independence. I think that when my mother went into residential care in 1990 I would have much preferred her to go into something like this.

“It makes a massive difference to their lives.”

She added: “Of course, I am very please to pick up the award. It was in a category of ten and one of only two that were given in North Wales.”

Councillor Roberts travelled to Cardiff on Thursday December 9 where she received the award at a gala presentation evening.

Clwyd Alyn is one of the largest housing associations throughout North Wales.