A TAMESIDE homelessness worker who has helped more than 100 people move away from rough sleeping over the last year has been recognised for his impact.
Tom Butterworth, Tameside Council’s Rough Sleeper Co-ordinator, received the Trust Award at the authority’s inaugural STRIVE Awards.
Colleagues described him as “a wonderful member of staff” whose person-centred approach has changed lives across the borough.
Tom’s work focuses on stopping people from ending up on the streets in the first place and, when that can’t be avoided, making sure any period of rough sleeping is “rare, brief and non-recurring”.
Over the last year, he has helped people move straight from street to home, as well as supporting those in emergency accommodation to secure long-term housing. While many areas are experiencing rising homelessness, Tameside’s data shows a decrease in entrenched and repeat rough sleeping.
The STRIVE Awards, held for the first time, celebrated staff and teams who embody the council’s values: Support, Trust, Respect, Integrity, Value Diversity and Engage.
Nearly 500 nominations were submitted by staff, highlighting work that often takes place quietly but has a significant impact on local people.
“Well done to Tom for his remarkable achievements, which are transforming lives across Tameside,” said Tameside Council’s leader, Councillor Eleanor Wills.
“And congratulations to not only all the winners, who each had fantastic success stories on their support to communities around the borough, but to everyone shortlisted and nominated. It shows the depth of appreciation and support for each other’s work that runs throughout the council.”
Other winners on the night at Dukinfield Town Hall included Tameside Carers Centre, the Registrars Team, the Greenspace Team and the Chair of the Council’s Employee Networks, who received the Overall STRIVE Award.