Emily wins apprenticeship award

One of our Sanctuary apprentices is celebrating after winning a prestigious regional award.

Emily Tidmarsh, a customer service apprentice in our care billing team, was named Intermediate Apprentice of the Year at the West Midlands regional finals of the National Apprenticeship Awards.

Emily was recognised for the passion and commitment she brings to her role, as well as the outstanding quality of her work.

Alongside her own achievements, Emily has also acted as an ambassador for apprenticeships, championing their benefits both inside and outside the workplace and supporting others considering the first steps in their career.

Following her success at the West Midlands awards, Emily is now in the running for the national title, which will be announced during a ceremony in London on 30 November. Separately, she has also been shortlisted in the Intermediate Level Apprentice of the Year category of the Worcestershire Apprenticeship Awards, which will be announced next month.

Emily said: “I’m shocked and delighted to win this award, and I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone at Sanctuary who has supported me.

“My apprenticeship has been a fantastic experience right from the start. I have progressed and developed more than I ever thought possible. Before my apprenticeship, I didn’t know what career I wanted to follow – but now I feel I have really found my calling.”

Our national apprenticeship programme was established in 2008 and has since supported more than 2,000 people into work, both directly and indirectly through development partners.

Apprentices work in a variety of business areas, including finance, IT, housing, business and administration and health and social care, gaining valuable workplace experience while studying for practical qualifications alongside their day-to-day role.

Michelle Wood, our Group Head of Learning and Development, commented: “We’re huge supporters of apprenticeships at Sanctuary and recognise the value they bring, both for our organisation and in supporting people to develop and realise their goals and ambitions.

“We are so proud of Emily for everything she has achieved, and this award is a very fitting recognition of all her hard work and dedication.”