Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council is celebrating the achievement of one of its social workers, Gareth Lewis, who has been announced as a finalist in the 2026 Accolades awards.
The Accolades, organised annually by Social Care Wales, celebrate and share notable work across social care and childcare, play and early years services. This year, a record number of nominations were received, with expert panels of judges selecting eight finalists across three award categories.
Gareth has been shortlisted for the WeCare Wales award in recognition of his exceptional work supporting people at risk of homelessness. He moved to the Council’s Specialist Mental Health & Substance Misuse Housing Outreach Service on a secondment in January 2024, having previously worked as a social worker in the hospital discharge team.
Since joining the service, Gareth has supported 141 individuals at risk of homelessness, leaving a lasting impact through his timely, compassionate, and strengths-based support during periods of crisis. During his secondment position, his work also highlighted the growing need for specialist support in the area, directly contributing to the creation of three permanent social worker posts within the team.
The nomination, put forward by several colleagues across the local authority, praised Gareth’s calm, non-judgemental approach and collaborative working style. His ability to build trust, advocate for dignity and respect, and provide reassurance during complex situations has strengthened multi-agency working, helping to reduce emergency placements and crisis interventions across the region.
A parent of a person receiving support, said: “Gareth is extremely reliable and very supportive. Even though I know he’s incredibly busy, he has truly been a huge benefit when helping my son.”
Gareth, Social Work Practitioner, said: “It is an honour and a privilege to be recognised for work that so many people contribute to every day. This nomination really reflects the dedication of my team, and I am humbled to be able to work alongside them.
“I am also proud to be part of a wider network of passionate people across housing support services in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Merthyr Tydfil, and Bridgend. Everyone shares the same goal – to make a genuine difference in people’s lives by helping those who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.”
The three awards being decided by a public vote are:
- Inspirational Leadership
- Learner of the Year
- WeCare Wales award for outstanding care workers.
The WeCare Wales award highlights frontline care workers who demonstrate commitment, compassion and professionalism in their roles. Gareth is one of two finalists selected for the award, reflecting the high standards of care delivered in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Public voting for has now closed, and one winner from each category will be announced at the 2026 Accolades awards ceremony taking place on July 2 at the Parkgate Hotel in Cardiff.
Councillor Gareth Caple, Cabinet Member for Social Care, said: “At Rhondda Cynon Taf Council we are incredibly proud of Gareth’s achievement. His commitment, compassion and leadership have made a genuine difference to residents experiencing ot at risk of homelessness across the County Borough.
“Being recognised as a finalist at a national level through the Accolades is a well-deserved reflection of his contribution and hard work. I wish Gareth the very best of luck at the awards ceremony in July.”
The Accolades are awards were set up by Social Care Wales to recognise, celebrate and share notable work in social care, social work and childcare, play and early years in Wales. The awards recognise the work of groups, teams and organisations, as well as workers from across the public, private, voluntary and co-operative sectors in Wales.
Find out more and see the full list of finalists: 2026 Accolades | Social Care Wales
For information on support for homelessness in Rhondda Cynon Taf, please visit: Homelessness advice and support | Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
Posted on 07/05/2026