January Mirus Moments Winners

A Mirus Moment is when someone has done something special. 

People supported by Mirus, and Mirus staff can nominate each other to be in with a chance of winning a £20 Love2Shop voucher.

You can nominate online at this link: bit.ly/mirusmoments

Why were they nominated?

Shannon O, supported by Mirus in Swansea

Empowering

Shannon has recently started doing more things independently. Shannon has always been a capable young lady but has struggled with the confidence to take the next step. Recently, Shannon has been encouraged to start using the bus on her own.

Although Shannon passed her travel training a year ago, she never felt confident enough to travel without staff. 

Now, Shannon catches the bus home independently after an activity with her boyfriend or family, while keeping in touch with staff by phone. Shannon still feels nervous when the bus is busy, but she knows she can call staff for reassurance. Shannon’s confidence is growing, and she is very happy and proud to feel more independent.

Michelle M, supported by Mirus in Cardiff

Together

Michelle lives with her friend Elaine, who is 20 years older than her. They have been close friends for many years and share a lovely friendship.

Michelle has seen the changes in Elaine’s health as she has gotten older, but she takes it all in her stride and adapts to Elaine’s needs. Michelle is very patient, always happy to explain what’s happening in TV programmes if Elaine doesn’t understand or repeat things if Elaine doesn’t hear them properly. Nothing is ever too much trouble for Michelle when it comes to helping Elaine.

When they are out in the community, Michelle walks at Elaine’s pace and helps her with her walker when needed. Michelle supports Elaine with her shopping and makes sure her handbag is safe.

Michelle also volunteers in a charity shop and often buys little gifts for Elaine out of her own money – things she knows Elaine will like or find useful, especially bracelets. Michelle always encourages Elaine, checks that she’s okay, and takes a genuine interest in everything Elaine does.

Their friendship is special, and they have built many happy memories together, which they love to look back on. I would love to see Michelle recognised for her kindness, patience, and the care she gives to Elaine. Everyone needs a friend like Michelle in their life.

Michael W, supported by Mirus in Neath Port Talbot

Together 

Michael has been doing really well and engaging with his support to get out into the community. It has been wonderful to see him opening up to staff and taking part in activities.

Over the festive period, Michael joined in with Christmas activities, which was a big step for him. He enjoyed having Christmas dinner with his housemates and also joined them and staff to celebrate the New Year.

It’s great to see Michael building connections and friendships with others.

Emily Roderick, Mirus staff member in Gwent 

Courageous 

Emily recently supported the person she supports on a three-night holiday. Even though she has only been supporting him for six months, she handled the trip with great care.

During the holiday, the person she supports found it difficult to settle at night. Despite this, Emily stayed calm and confident, using the skills she has developed over the past six months. 

Emily handled every challenge and made sure the person she supports enjoyed his holiday by taking him to visit places he was interested in during the day.

Amanda O’Sheehan, Mirus staff member in Brecon

Together 

Amanda volunteered to work all day on Christmas Day to make it special for the person she supports, who had shared that she has no happy Christmas memories.

Amanda went out in her own time to buy and wrap all the presents the person she supports wanted. Amanda also made sure the person she support’s favourite meat and vegetables were ready for Christmas dinner. 

On Christmas Day, Amanda dressed up as an elf to make the occasion even more special. This thoughtful effort not only created happy memories for the person she supports but also allowed the rest of the staff team to spend Christmas with their loved ones.

Huw Davies, Mirus staff member in Neath Port Talbot

Together

I am nominating Huw for this award because he is an amazing and energetic Support Worker who always puts a smile on everyone’s face – both the people we support and staff. 

Huw is always upbeat and brings great banter and positive energy that the people we support love – there’s never a dull moment when he’s on shift! Huw even came in on Christmas Day, dressed as an elf and dancing, even though he wasn’t scheduled to work. That says it all! 

I chose the value “together” because of a recent experience where I felt overwhelmed and emotional during a difficult situation. 

I sent Huw a brief message and within minutes, he called me and reassured me that my feelings were normal.  

Huw shared his own experiences dealing with similar situations, which really eased my anxiety. It meant so much to feel supported by a team member, and I truly appreciated this person’s kindness and understanding. 

Special mention goes to the staff team at Old Road who also received a nomination

Old Road, Neath Port Talbot

Helen and the team at Old Road, Neath, have been supporting my daughter since November 2023. From the very first day, C felt empowered, and her confidence kept growing. 

Unfortunately, Chanel suffered with anxiety and saw a decline in her mental health. 

However, Helen and the team have been amazing, providing constant support and never giving up on her. C isn’t back to 100% yet, but she is making progress. The support and encouragement she continues to receive means everything to us, and we are so grateful for it.

What is a Mirus Moment?

A Mirus Moment is when someone has done something extra special.  

We love to celebrate when someone has done something great, that shows they really believe in our values; Together, Respectful, Responsible, Empowering and Courageous.

Winners are chosen by our Mirus Reps, who are supported by Mirus and advocate for others.

Our Mirus Moment winners receive a £20 Love2Shop voucher, and we share their name, the area they live or work in, and the reason they were nominated online.

You can nominate Mirus staff or people supported by Mirus online at this link: bit.ly/mirusmoments

Watch our video to find out more about Mirus Moments: