Employees of the month: Gemma and Mandy

2nd December 2024

This month, we are thrilled to celebrate not one, but two Employees of the Month – Service Managers Gemma and Mandy.

Gemma Chapman is the Support Manager at one of Autism Hampshire’s supported living services in Liss. She was nominated for her “continuous hard work to improve the quality of life for the people we support” and “for going above and beyond to make their dreams come true.”

Earlier this year, Gemma and Mandy, supported individuals to go on a cruise - a first-time experience for many. Later, others enjoyed a trip to Butlins, and thanks to her encouragement and planning, another group is preparing for a second cruise.

Gemma’s dedication to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities is evident in her words: “Why can’t they do it? We did some of the background work to make sure it happened. We just need to do it in small steps.”

Gemma joined Autism Hampshire five years ago as a Senior Support Worker and has steadily progressed to her current role as Support Manager. Over the years, she has worked across Southampton and East Hampshire services, where she currently supports 14 adults.

Reflecting on her role, Gemma said: “It has gone really quickly. So much has happened, time just flies by.”

Her passion for advocacy and the wellbeing of the people she supports shines through in everything she does.

“It’s because they need a voice. They are so vulnerable in so many ways that I just think they need someone to advocate for them. I just want them to be happy.

“When you go into a room and they smile for you - it’s the little things. Those moments, like seeing someone putting their washing in the machine after working towards it for so long, are why I do this job.

“I’m grateful I was nominated, and I never would have expected it.”

In the nomination for Mandy, her colleague said: “Mandy always offers her support when needed and never grumbles or complains she will often stay later to get things right for the people we support and the staff team.”

Please join us in celebrating Gemma and Mandy, whose hard work and care make them truly deserving of this recognition.

To find out more about joining our team, visit Autism Hampshire’s career page.