A devoted care manager from Denbighshire has been hailed a hero after scooping a top award for transforming the lives of adults with learning disabilities.
Michael Rawlins, 35, who heads up Oak Residential Home in Llandyrnog, near Denbigh, was honoured in the Outstanding Service category sponsored by the Caron Group at this year’s Wales Care Awards – dubbed the “Oscars of social care”.
Judges praised Michael for his “unwavering dedication” and the life-changing difference he’s made to residents and staff alike at the home, run by Mental Health Care (MHC) Ltd.
The event is being organised by Care Forum Wales to recognise exceptional work of the unsung frontline heroes in the social care sector.
At the presentation ceremony, sponsored by Meddyg Care, at Cardiff’s Holland House Hotel, Michael was presented with the Silver award.
Michael, who has been with Mental Health Care (MHC) Ltd since 2010, was nominated for his “unwavering dedication” in supporting both his team and the residents of Oak, a specialist home designed to help adults with complex needs live fulfilling, independent lives.
Despite the personal honour, Michael remains modest, crediting his 40-strong team for the nomination.
Speaking before the ceremony Michael said: “Naturally I’m pleased, but this is a recognition of our hard work as a team. Everyone here is amazing – they give their all, every single day, to make a difference to the people who live at Oak.”
Oak provides a sensory-friendly, supportive environment for eight residents, each with highly individualised care plans.
Since Michael took the helm in 2023, three long-term residents have successfully progressed to more independent living – something he sees as a major achievement.
“That’s what it’s all about – helping people build skills, grow in confidence and, when they’re ready, take that next step. It’s incredibly rewarding,” Michael added.
Oak was given a glowing review by Care Inspectorate Wales last year, praising the home’s focus on communication, choice, and empowerment.
The report highlighted how “people’s quality of life has been enriched,” echoing Michael’s own commitment to a person-centred, goal-driven approach.
Outside of work, Michael’s commitment doesn’t stop. He’s a hands-on dad to two young children and still finds time to support his brother on the family’s sheep farm in Henllan.
Shaun Jones, Director of Operations at MHC, said: “Michael has transformed the lives of individuals in his care by delivering outcomes that are both meaningful and achievable. He’s also enhanced the living space, ensuring all sensory needs are met.”
MHC Managing Director Seona Weir, who nominated him, added: “Michael is the embodiment of what we aim for in social care – compassion, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.”
Mario Kreft MBE, Chair of the Care Forum Wales, said the Wales Care Awards once again shone a light on the “unsung heroes and heroines” who make a vital difference to the lives of vulnerable people across the nation.
He said: “For more than 30 years, Care Forum Wales has worked tirelessly to champion the social care sector.
“The Wales Care Awards underlines the importance of the sector – it’s the glue that binds our communities together, both socially and economically.
“Our mission has always been to be the voice of social care in Wales to stand up for the workforce and ensure their dedication is properly recognised.”
A special moment in the evening when Mair Elis-Thomas, widow of the late Lord Dafydd Elis Thomas, took to the stage to present one of the awards.
According to Mr Kreft it was a touching gesture that reflected Lord Elis Thomas’s long standing support for the Wales Care Award and for social care more broadly.
“Dafydd was a passionate believer in the power of the arts to enrich lives and support wellbeing and mental health,” said Mr Kreft.
“He is greatly missed, but his legacy lives on – not only through his contribution to public life as a Presiding Officer, but also through the positive impact he had on so many communities.”
