October Mirus Moments winners

Every month, we hear about Mirus team members, volunteers and people we support who are making a real difference—whether that’s through thoughtful support, creative ideas, or simply being there when it matters most.

Thank you to everyone who sent in a nomination—we’re really pleased to celebrate these brilliant examples of what it means to be part of Mirus.

Mirus team members can now read recent nominations and submit their own on Mirus Connect.

People we support, family members, and anyone else outside Mirus can also make a nomination using our usual public link: bit.ly/mirusmoments

Nominations made after 17th October 2025 will roll over to next year’s Mirus Stars awards, but they’ll still be announced as Mirus Moments winners each month, from December. 

Julie Evans, Mirus team member in Neath Port Talbot

Julie is very good at communicating, organising, problem-solving and leading. She also has a really kind and caring nature.

Julie has supported me through some difficult times and always makes sure I have the help I need. She gives me confidence in myself and has helped me to try new and exciting things that I didn’t think I could do before.

With Julie’s support, I’ve been able to get involved in new opportunities, including part-time work within Mirus.

Julie, you’re a great team leader and we all really appreciate everything you do. Keep up the good work!

Dorial Braund, Mirus team member in Bridgend

Dorial received 4 nominations this month!

Dorial hosted a macmillan coffee morning at her service with the people supported involved, it was a lovely day for the people supported and staff from other services getting together to donate and eat lots of cake for a good reason, Doriel raised a massive £115.00

Dorial hosted a macmillan coffee morning at the service bringing together people from other services for a good cause to donate and eat lots of cake, it was a lovely day for all involved, Dorial raised £115.00

Dorial hosted a macmillan cofffee morning bringing everyone together from other services, everyone had a lovely day eating cake and all together £115 was raised for a good cause

Because she always thinks of you even when she not on shift 💯 all rounder.

Bethan James, Mirus team member in Gwent

Empowering, Reliable, Responsible…. Queen of shift cover…. the list of acolades could go on.
Beth leads by example, giving others the courage to follow in her steps.
Beth ensures that not only her own service’s shifts are covered but those of her collegues at their services. Beth has worked with managers to help with rota management and give advice where needed. This has empowered other managers to do the same, strenghtening the region, pulling services and skills together. This kind of management is sometimes overlooked as there are not noticeable issues, however Beths hard work and sharing her knowledge is the reason there are no issues to highlight….. Thank you Beth.

Nia Matthews, Mirus team member in Central Services

Nia received 2 nominations this month.

Nia went above and beyond to help me when i needed someone for guidance and support when working at Bridgend office, even though Nia had her own heavy workload and deadlines to complete, She not only gave support but also had empathy with my situation which gave me the drive i needed to complete my own task.

I’d like to nominate Nia for consistently demonstrating the value of Together in everything she does. Nia is someone who brings people together, fosters collaboration, and always makes time to support her colleagues.
Recently, Nia went above and beyond by completing the Quality of Care reports outside of her normal working hours, stepping in to resolve a miscommunication around what was required. Her commitment ensured that deadlines were met and the team stayed on track.
She’s also been instrumental in creating a positive team atmosphere, encouraging open communication and celebrating shared successes.
Nia’s approach reminds us that when we work together, we achieve more—and we enjoy the journey along the way. Her kindness, teamwork, and willingness to step in wherever needed truly embody what Together means at Mirus.
Thank you, Nia, for being such a brilliant example of this value.

Sean P, supported by Mirus in Swansea

Sean has shown incredible courage and determination over the past few months. Even during very difficult times, Sean faced each day with quiet strength and a positive spirit.

Coming home from hospital marked a huge milestone in Sean’s journey. It was a moment filled with hope and happiness, and a sign of how far Sean had come.

Since then, Sean has continued to make steady progress. Every day brings new achievements—big and small—that show Sean’s resilience and willpower. Whether it’s building routines, regaining independence, or finding joy in everyday moments, Sean approaches each step with patience and courage.

Sean’s story is one of perseverance and strength. It reminds everyone around him what it means to keep going, to stay hopeful, and to never give up, no matter how tough things get.

Harry A, supported by Mirus in Brecon

Harry has made an incredible start in his new home and has settled in wonderfully. From the very beginning, he embraced the chance to learn new skills and take a more active role in his daily life.

He is now confidently doing things he hadn’t had the opportunity to try before—like hoovering, preparing meals, using kitchen appliances, washing dishes, and doing his own laundry. Each day, Harry grows more independent and self-assured, showing real pride in what he can do.

After spending a long time in hospital, Harry is now enjoying getting out into the community every day. He loves visiting local shops, having meals in cafés, and exploring new places on walks. These experiences have given him a renewed sense of freedom and happiness.

Harry has truly embraced this new chapter with courage and enthusiasm. His own words capture his journey best: “Wow, I’ve found myself again—I’m alive.”

Harry’s story is one of rediscovery, growth, and joy. He continues to inspire everyone around him with his positivity and determination.

Alex J, supported by Mirus in Brecon 

Alex has shown incredible courage and flexibility over the past year. After living on his own with full support for several years, he recently welcomed someone new into his home—a big change that took real strength and understanding.

Alex adapted with patience and openness. He adjusted to changes in his environment, began sharing spaces and routines, and showed great empathy toward the person moving in. Throughout the process, Alex was involved every step of the way, helping him understand and feel comfortable with the changes around him.

His ability to stay positive, engage with others, and build a friendly relationship with his new housemate has been truly inspiring. Alex has shown how kindness, patience, and courage can turn a big life change into a success story.

Haydn N, supported by Mirus in Brecon

Haydn has shown incredible courage over the past 18 months. He had always loved swimming, but hadn’t been for more than five years. When the team began supporting him to return to this activity, they used a gentle, step-by-step approach to help him feel comfortable and confident again.

At first, Haydn chose to sit on a chair by the pool, watching staff swim and joke together in the water. He laughed along, enjoying the fun and connection of the moment without needing to take part himself. Over time, and with patient encouragement each week, Haydn began sitting on the poolside, splashing his legs and engaging more with the experience.

After months of building trust and familiarity, the big moment came — Haydn decided to step into the hot tub. He smiled, relaxed, and enjoyed the water, chatting and laughing with staff throughout.

This was a huge milestone for Haydn, achieved through patience, determination, and courage. What began as a challenge has become a joyful part of his week again — a real example of what can be achieved through persistence, trust, and a supportive approach.

Special Mentions

Cornerways Team, Brecon

The Cornerways staff team has shown exceptional teamwork and professionalism. Everyone has come together, adapted, and grown as a team, particularly during the recent move-in of a new person we support.

The transition brought many challenges, yet the team remained positive, responsible, and committed to delivering the highest standards of support. They applied their skills in positive risk-taking and active support, helping the individual make incredible progress within just one week, learning new skills to become as independent as possible.

Families and professionals have been amazed. One family said, “Our eyes are pouring with proud tears…we cannot be any more proud than we currently are. The support provided has been unbelievable—achievements are happening every day that have never happened before.”

The team’s dedication, accountability, and unity are truly outstanding. Their work is a perfect example of what excellent teamwork can achieve.

Stow Park Circle Team, Gwent

The Stow Park Circle team has shown amazing adaptability, positivity, and dedication. After delays in opening, staff were redeployed to other houses, learning new skills and growing in their roles. They stayed enthusiastic and patient throughout.

When five individuals moved in over just seven days, the team managed the transition smoothly, ensuring everyone felt safe, supported, and comfortable. Since opening, the service achieved the highest mark of excellence during a CIW inspection, with outstanding feedback on training and Active Support observations.

Families have been thrilled. One parent shared that their son has found his “forever home,” reflecting the trust, care, and strong relationships the team has built. This team’s dedication is truly inspiring, and their hard work has created a welcoming, thriving environment for all.

Woodlands Avenue Team, Swansea
When one of the people at Woodlands Avenue went through a particularly difficult period, the entire team came together to support one another. Their unity, empathy, and emotional support ensured the individual received the care they needed while the team stayed strong together.

Recruitment Team, Central Services

Nadia, Abbie, and Wendy have worked tirelessly to implement the new recruitment system over the past year. They have managed a heavy workload, learned new processes, and retired old ones, all while supercharging the organisation’s resourcing plans.

Their hard work has delivered outstanding results:

• Cost per hire reduced by 48%
• Offer to hire timeline reduced by 29%
• Recruitment increased by 42%
• Average vacancy reduced by 25%
• The team has built strong relationships with stakeholders, achieving excellent feedback from candidates:
• 94% said the application process was easy
• 95% said onboarding was easy
• 4.73/5 stars for candidate experience
• Recruitment Employee Net Promoter Score of +63%

Their courage, commitment, and dedication over a challenging year have been exceptional. They’ve made the process smoother for everyone and set a high standard for recruitment excellence.

Vera Road Team, Swansea
The Vera Road team continues to work together to provide the best possible support, even knowing the service may close in the coming months. Their commitment, resilience, and teamwork remain unwavering during this uncertain period.

Dyfrig Road Team, Cardiff
The entire staff team has been incredible in working together, considering the needs of the people they support, and providing huge support during my transition as manager over the past six months. They are a real asset and a pleasure to work with.

Congratulations to everyone who was nominated this month, including these Team Members: