Care Worker Alex Scarlatt, who is profoundly Deaf, has won a coveted National Care Award in recognition of her commitment to supporting young people at Exmouth’s Deaf Academy.
Alex, 33, who joined the Academy’s residential care team in 2022, was presented the award for Best Newcomer of the Year by television presenter Rylan Clark at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre on Friday night.
He said: “A heartfelt congratulations to Alex for her remarkable contributions and unwavering support for both the deaf community and the children you support. Alex’s inspiring story of teaching sign language to a driving instructor, enabling them to teach deaf individuals to drive, is truly uplifting and exemplifies your dedication and impact.”
Alex’s devoted Hearing Dog Otto also took centre stage at the glitzy ceremony, escorting her as she went up to collect her award.
She said afterwards: “I don’t only love my job, but I love who I am becoming. Working and training in care at the Deaf Academy has really pushed me to further invest in my career, especially once I have completed my Children and Young People’s Workforce Diploma. Receiving this award is the extra validation I needed to make even more of a difference in Deaf children’s lives.”
James Heaver, Assistant Principal for Care at the Academy said: “This is a fantastic achievement and we’re so proud of Alex. It is recognition of her wonderfully kind and caring nature and reflects how seriously she takes her responsibilities, while also having fun and really connecting with our students.”
Alex uses her personal experiences of being Deaf to help build positive and trusting relationships with the children that she cares for in the Academy’s residential accommodation. She attended a residential school for the Deaf herself and understands the challenges that young Deaf people face.
The Academy’s students are Deaf and many have additional complex needs. They travel from regional and national local authorities. Residential students live at its new state-of-the-art campus during term-time and participate in local community activities at weekends.
James added: “Alex is an amazing addition to our team. She truly empathises with issues facing our children, such as children missing home and daily barriers linked to deafness. She can provide first-hand advice to help students navigate any difficulties and to help them develop their confidence and independence.”
Alex is now studying for her Health and Social Care qualification, with the support of a British Sign Language Interpreter.
If you would like to pursue a fulfilling career at the award-winning Deaf Academy, visit our vacancies page here https://thedeafacademy.ac.uk/work-for-us/vacancies/ or email hr@thedeafacademy.ac.uk
