Hft’s guitar hero: Gerard Blyth strikes a chord as support worker of the year

Known for his soothing presence and musical flair, Gerard brings happiness to everyone at 117 Hitchin Road

A support worker who ‘always makes people smile’ has been presented with a special accolade for ‘going the extra mile each and every day.’

Gerard Blyth, 56, was crowned at Support Worker of the Year at 117 Hitchin Road’s annual awards.

Gerard has been at the residential service since 2019 and is a firm favourite amongst the people he supports, their families and his Hft colleagues.

The dad of one is known for his ‘cool as a cucumber’ demeanour, his caring manner and his ‘unique way’ of ensuring each person supported at the service continues to thrive.

Gerard began his career in care in 2015 and has held a variety of roles including as a support worker for learning disabled adults with Prader Willi Syndrome.

After meeting his wife Mary Rose, the couple moved to the Philippines for a spell before returning to Cambridgeshire to live with Mary’s sister.

Moving to Bedfordshire, Gerard joined the team at Hitchin Road – a role he has held and loved since.

Gerard is known at the service for his musical talents. In the late 1980s he worked as a musician, performing with the jazz/funk band Haranbe and releasing an album called Roots.

Music is still a big part of Gerard’s life and a passion that he shares with the people he supports, often pulling out his guitar to perform at various events.

The awards at held each year at Hitchin Road.

Nominations are made by those who live at the residential service, their families and Hft colleagues.

“I love my role here at Hitchin Road,” said Gerard.

“I get a real buzz out of seeing the people we support thrive and get the best out of life.

“There’s always something going on and a real sense of camaraderie amongst the staff.

“It’s a fun place to be and everyone who works here deserves to be recognised for their work in helping the people we support live their best lives possible.”

Hitchin Road Service Manager Claire Davies-Sond said: “Gerard has a unique way with each supported person and this makes them smile.

“He is as cool as a cucumber and really knows his stuff.

“He understands why we have what we have in place and his calmness sooths and benefits the people we support.

“Gerard is an all-round outstanding support worker who meets the holistic needs that include the not so nice side of care perhaps.

“He is always willing to play his guitar at different events, functions on top of his support role.

“Music to everyone is important and it gives great joy to those he supports.

“Gerard brings a gift to all residents and has done so for many years and I think he is an unsung hero to bring his talent to 117 for the benefit of all.”

Gerard was presented with an engraved trophy and a gift voucher to recognise his efforts.

Deputy manager Hayley won the award for Deputy Manager of the Year while Helen was presented with the award for Senior Support Worker of the Year.

Both were presented with a trophy.

Megan came second place in the Support Worker of the Year while Sam came third. Both were recognised for their willingness and engagement in supporting the service’s 1.5 campaign fundraising challenges.

Megan was also recognised for having zero absences from work during her first year.

Every single member of staff at Hitchin Road received a nomination for an award and all were presented with a medal recognising their hard work and dedication.

“All the staff here are somebody’s hero every day, “said Claire “And they all should be proud of what they do here at Hitchin Road.”