A neurodiversity-focused not-for-profit in Newcastle upon Tyne is celebrating after securing a prestigious national award for its work supporting adults with learning disabilities and complex needs.
Ngage NE Ltd, part of New Beginnings NE Ltd, was named winner of the highly sought-after Community Engagement category at this year’s Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards.
Now in its 12th year, the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards were founded by and organised by Care Management Matters (CMM), and developed in conjunction with the National Care Forum, a not-for-profit organisation offering expert advice in the care sector.
The awards recognise the hard work, dedication, innovation and excellence of everyone working in the not-for-profit sector who is making a positive difference to people’s lives, whether they are supporting children or adults.
Founded in 2008, the charity empowers neurodivergent individuals through community opportunities, creative workshops, and media.
The accolade was given to Ngage NE Ltd and New Beginnings NE Ltd for their team’s work at the Ngage Community Allotment – an inclusive green space in Walker, Newcastle, designed to support adults with learning disabilities and complex needs.
Judges praised how what was once an under-used and inaccessible plot had been transformed into a vibrant, accessible community garden where around 30 neurodiverse individuals regularly grow produce, build friendships, and develop independence.
Commenting on their success, Rachel Spencer, Director, said:
“Winning the Community Engagement category is a real honour and one we are very proud of. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the work taking place in the not-for-profit care sector and to be recognised alongside so many dedicated people and organisations across the UK.
“This recognition reflects the strength of our community and the incredible support behind the Ngage Community Allotment. Everyone who has ever been, picked up a spade, shared food or simply spent time enjoying the green space has been vital in helping the Allotment thrive, and this achievement belongs to them.”
Held at Birmingham Town Hall, the award ceremony was hosted by actress and television presenter, Sally Lindsay MBE, and brought together esteemed leaders in health and social care from across the UK to learn about and applaud the diverse work of the winners and finalists.
Simon Johnston, Marketing Director UK at Markel, stated:
“Every year, the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards shine a light on the remarkable work happening across the not-for-profit care sector. The dedication, resilience, and compassion demonstrated by individuals and teams continues to be truly inspiring and we are delighted to be giving them the recognition they deserve.
“Ngage NE Ltd and New Beginnings NE Ltd stood out to the judging panel for their dedication and the meaningful impact they are making for the people they support.
“As the awards enter their twelfth year, we remain proud to work alongside CMM to celebrate the achievements of the sector. Keeping the awards free to enter and attend remains a core part of this, ensuring that organisations and individuals from across the sector have the opportunity to take part and be recognised.
“Congratulations to Ngage NE Ltd and New Beginnings NE Ltd, and all of this year’s finalists. Their commitment plays a vital role in improving lives and strengthening communities in every corner of the UK.”
Lisa Werthmann, Director at Care Management Matters, said:
“We are so proud to be able to continue to produce these awards. The not-for-profit sector is full to the brim of incredible people delivering outstanding outcomes for vulnerable people.
“These awards aim to shine a spotlight on them and celebrate them with the recognition they deserve. This year’s finalists and winners just highlight what wonderful work takes place every day and we want to congratulate all those involved.”
Entries to next year’s awards will be opening later this year for anyone working in the not-for-profit sector who is making a positive difference to people’s lives. Anyone can enter themselves or nominate someone else in one of the categories – no matter what their position in an organisation. More information on the benefits of entering and winning the awards can be found on the Why Enter? page.
Markel is widely recognised as a key supporter to the care sector through the provision of specialist insurance, legal, tax and consultancy capabilities. One such service the company provides to the sector is its specialist care consultancy, Markel Care Practitioners, which exists to provide support across a range of issues such as risk management, inspection preparation and continuity planning.
Those wishing to find out more about the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards, or looking to register their interest for this year’s entry window, can do so at: care.uk.markel.com/care-awards/
More information about Markel Care can also be found here.
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