A former schoolteacher has been nominated for the ‘Oscars of Social Care’ following his positive work at a care home.

Linley Jenkins was put forward for an outstanding service trophy at the Wales Care Awards 2024 after making a big impression on residents at Cwrt Enfys residential home in Ystradgynlais near Swansea.

After getting recruited as a maintenance operative in 2020, Linley does general repairs, innovative project designs and structural maintenance at the 98-bed care home belonging to the Silver Crest care group.

Cwrt Enfys home manager Lindsey Davies nominated Linley for the outstanding service award, sponsored by the Caron Group.

Lindsey said: “Whenever you ask anyone about Linley they’ll have a smile on their face, he is just the nicest, kindest person around.

“He doesn’t need to interact with residents, but he’s made it his mission to get to know them, play games with them, discover their likes and dislikes, hobbies and interests so he can strike up meaningful conversations.

“Apart from his day-to-day job of fixing things and making the home safe, which he does exceptionally well, Linley makes time to see residents and make them a cuppa during which time he has a quick chat with them, especially if he sees someone seated alone."

Linley, 62, retired from his role as assistant head at Bishop Vaughan Catholic School, Swansea when he was aged 55.

Despite ending his 35-year teaching career, Linley still wanted to contribute to his community with his love of practical handicrafts.

“I was lucky to retire early, and I knew I had a fairly good skills profile after years of doing odd jobs and practical work around our house and garden.

“I started as a maintenance assistant on a casual basis at Cwrt Enfys. Then I was offered a permanent part-time role which I love.”

The shortlist of finalists in each category of the Welsh Care Awards has been whittled down from hundreds of nominees in the social care sector across Wales.

Each finalist will receive a gold, silver or bronze accolade.

Mario Kreft MBE, the Chair of Care Forum Wales, which oversees the Wales Care Awards, said: “Our aim is to recognise the unstinting, often remarkable dedication of our unsung heroes and heroines on the front line of social care in Wales.

“The sector is full of wonderful people because it’s not just a job it’s a vocation – these are the people who really do have the X Factor.”