Amila celebrates winning inspiring people award

The inspiring people award was won by Amila from Suffolk. Amila was nominated for his commitment and support to Ben by helping him move into his own flat, after living with his grandparents for 26 years.

Over the last two years supporting Ben, Amila has built up good relationships with him as well as his grandparents. Originally from Sri Lanka, Amila also grew up with his grandparents. He used his own personal experience to reassure Ben’s grandparents about the new activities that he introduced to help support him and explained things in a way that they understood.

As part of developing his independence, Amila also arranged journey’s on trains and buses, allowing Ben to go shopping and buy his own things. Working with other supporters Ben’s vocabulary has also improved.

Amila’s drive, infectious enthusiasm, can do attitude and commitment, along with working with other supporters has led to Ben’s life being transformed.  Without the support of Amila, Ben would not have been able to move into his own flat and live more independently.

Winning the award Amila said:

“Since Ben has moved into his flat he is proud to show people around. It has made him a different person.

“It was amazing winning the award. On the day I didn’t hear my name being announced, I was clapping for the other person! It came as a surprise to me. It has made me aspire to do more for the organisation. This small push from Dimensions has made me want to do more and more. I wish I could inspire more people.”

Since winning the award Amila has been nominated for the Dimensions aspire programme to develop his skills further.

Amila started his support career working for an agency in 2011. Six years later he became a permanent member of staff working for Dimensions. Amila is now an assistant locality manager at a service in Suffolk.