An awesome night for the 2021 BAPs Awards!

On Wednesday 03 November, our Children’s Complex Care team attended the 2021 BAPs awards, hosted by My Family Our Needs and Bringing Us Together.

Dozens of glammed up guests gathered at the Athena in Leicester to celebrate the amazing achievements of parents and advocates. It was humbling to be amongst such inspiring SEND champions. Each one is doing their bit to raise awareness, educate and lend support to families within their communities.

A night to remember

Th night began with a red carpet entrance to make the finalists feel really special. Welcome drinks followed, and the chatter from parents and advocates grew as people began sharing stories and experiences.

It was amazing to hear individual’s journeys. We learnt about their successes and barriers as they fight collectively to achieve the same goal; SEND appreciation and awareness.

Yvonne, Clinical Services Lead said, “As a registered, paediatric nurse, I’ve worked with lots of families supporting additional needs. I must say, parents and advocates play such an integral role in care delivery. Those nominated for BAPs awards are not only amazing, they’re bloody awesome!”

Yvonne in yellow (left), Kerry-Ann in black (centre) and Gemma in black (right) at the 2021 BAPs awards.

White background with logos on.

Two images. One on left is of the three ladies smiling ass Yvonne and Gemma gesture to Kerry-Ann.

One on right is all three cheering with arms in the air.

A blue ladder frame down the centre separates the two images.

And the winner is …

As sponsors of the Newcomer category, Children’s Complex Care were privileged to be asked to present the award. Clinical Services Lead, Yvonne Mujeri and Clinical Nurse Educator, Gemma Morris took to the stage with celebrity host, Mathew Horne to announce who’d be heading home as the 2021 best newcomer!

After much anticipation, Kerry-Ann from Our Life Loving Lucas was announced as this year’s winner. She was overcome with emotion at being selected as the winner. Kerry-Ann was chosen for the huge impact she’s had on the Downs Syndrome community and for her amazing work in raising awareness.

Kerry said, “I can’t believe it, it’s absolutely mad! The whole point of this was to showcase Lucas and his Downs Syndrome. I wanted to show the good parts as well as the bad parts. Because it isn’t easy. Sometimes it’s really hard and I think it’s important to share that. The whole process has been really therapeutic for me too.”

She continued, “I can’t thank everyone enough for voting for us. It’s one hell of a ride and it fills our heart up to know that Lucas is loved so much. Hopefully we can continue to do what we’ve been doing and the future is bright.”

Learn more about Kerry-Ann and her blog!

Follow Kerry-Ann’s story and stay updated with Lucas’ progress as he continues his Downs Syndrome journey. Simply head to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Check out our gallery below from the night to see why we are excited to be part of the BAPs awards again next year!