Less than 18 months after beginning his career in the social care sector a young man has already picked up his second award.

Rhys John, who comes from Brecon and now lives in Cardiff, was among the recipients at this year’s Wales Care Awards ceremony, organised by Care Forum Wales to recognise exceptional work in the field.

The ceremony, held at Cardiff’s Holland House Hotel, was hosted by radio and TV presenter Jason Mohammad. The event was sponsored by Ontex Healthcare.

25-year-old Rhys, who hails from Brecon, received a bronze award in the category for Best Newcomer, sponsored by the Educ8 Group.

The psychology graduate began as a support worker for React, which provides accommodation for men and women with various mental health problems, in May, 2023.

He is based at Cadoc House, one of the organisation’s services in Roath, and in December he won the company’s “Best Newcomer Award” after being nominated by colleagues.

In February this year he was promoted to senior support worker and was nominated after further commendations from React staff team.

He was nominated by Cadoc’s Registered Manager Ceri-Ann Welch who described Rhys as “an asset to the staff team”.

“He is extremely knowledgeable and passionate in all his interactions with individuals,” she said.

“His skill set allows him to effectively run a shift, ensuring all Individuals are able to have their requested support and ensuring that the right person is allocated whilst safely navigating the other pressures of the shift,” said Ms Welch.

She described how he managed to build a relationship with one Individual, enabling her to become open to the idea of working with other males, and then ensuring that other staff supported the woman with her eating disorder.

As a Welsh-speaker Rhys has been appointed as Cadoc House’s Welsh Champion, an asset which further helps in building relationships with some of the individuals.

Among the testimonials in support of his nomination was one from one of the home’s residents, who commented: “He is very approachable, kind and easy to talk to. I trust him and feel he definitely deserves recognition.”

Outside work Rhys, who has a degree in human and social sciences and a master’s in clinical psychology, enjoys motorcycling and is also an avid reader.

He said he found the work extremely satisfying, especially seeing the difference that can be made to people’s lives.

“People have faced various difficulties and we try to make their lives better,” he said. “One has to be patient but it is very rewarding.”

Mario Kreft, chairman of Care Forum Wales, said the standard of entries was extremely high.

He added : “There are only winners here tonight so it is only fitting that the finalists will receive a gold, silver or bronze Wales Care Award.

“I trust that they will continue to inspire those around them as role models and encourage others to aspire to even greater heights and in the months and years to come.

“This awards ceremony is our opportunity to pay tribute and to celebrate the talent and commitment that is improving the quality of life for thousands and thousands of people throughout Wales. We take our hats off to them.”