'We really appreciate you': Preston man honoured for keeping public spaces clean
"It is particularly lovely that the team at the Capitol Centre has taken the time to recognise his efforts.”
A Preston man has received a True Hero Award for his deciation in helping to tackle litter in the city and making his community cleaner and more welcoming.
Edward Fawcett, who lives at Hennel Lane, a residential service operated by Salutem Care and Education in Lostock Hall, has received an OCS TRUE Hero Award after impressing staff at the Capitol Centre Retail Park with his tireless litter-picking efforts.
For the past six months, Edward has headed a few days a week, supported by staff from Hennel Lane, to collect rubbish and help keep public spaces clean and tidy.
Edward, who enjoys spending time outdoors, embraced the activity as an opportunity to get involved in his community, take pride in his surroundings and make a positive difference.
His efforts eventually caught the attention of Damian Nowak, Dual Service Manager at Capitol Retail & Leisure Park for OCS Group UK Limited, the facilities management partner responsible for the shopping and leisure centre
In a personal letter to Edward, Damian praised his commitment and explained how much his contribution meant to the team responsible for maintaining the site.
He wrote: "It has been brought to my attention that you regularly help to make our site a clean and tidy environment for other users.
"Our cleaners often face an uphill battle tackling the rubbish people scatter around the site, and we really appreciate you doing your bit."
Presenting Edward with the OCS TRUE Hero Award, he added: "Please accept this OCS TRUE Hero Award as a small recognition of your continued dedication and the positive attitude you bring to work."
He also thanking Edward for everything he does, describing his contribution as "very much valued".
Hennel Lane is a registered residential home supporting young disabled adults aged 18 and over with learning disabilities, autism and associated complex needs, including behaviours that may challenge.
It focuses on helping people develop independence, build confidence, pursue their interests and play an active role in their communities.
John Godden, chief executive of Salutem Care and Education, said: "We are incredibly proud of Edward and delighted that his hard work has received this wonderful recognition.
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"What makes this award so special is that Edward has been doing something he enjoys while making a real and visible difference to his local community.
"Over the past six months, with encouragement and support from his team at Hennel Lane, he has shown tremendous commitment to keeping the area clean and making it a nicer place for everyone.
"At Salutem, we believe passionately in supporting people to follow their interests, develop their confidence and become active, valued members of their communities. Edward is a fantastic example of what that can look like in practice.
"It is particularly lovely that the team at the Capitol Centre has taken the time to recognise his efforts. Their kindness and appreciation will mean a great deal to Edward and everyone who supports him.”