Rachel’s passion, expertise and unwavering commitment have transformed the lives of hundreds of cardiac rehabilitation participants across Oldham. For more than 20 years, Rachel has dedicated her career to supporting people recovering from heart conditions, helping them regain confidence, improve their health and rebuild their lives through the REACH Exercise Referral Scheme.
She is renowned for her compassionate, person-centred approach – taking time to understand every individual, tailoring programmes to their specific needs, abilities and goals. Participants consistently describe her as warm, supportive and motivating, creating an environment where people feel safe, valued and empowered to succeed.
A Primetime Manager at Mytime Active, Ann has spent more than 18 years growing the over-60s programme from 79 members to nearly 4,000, building a dementia-inclusive, volunteer-powered community (3,000+ volunteer hours per year) that members credit with helping them through bereavement, isolation, and illness.
Ann embodies Mytime Active’s mission and has built a lasting-legacy through pioneering inclusive care and community partnerships with her unerring commitment to supporting everyone.
Renowned for his strong work ethic, humility and positive attitude, Robert approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and professionalism. Robert routinely goes above and beyond, often working in difficult conditions to ensure projects and services are delivered to the highest standard.
One of Robert’s greatest strengths is his ability to inspire and engage others. He coordinates approximately 60 conservation volunteers, ensuring they are supported, informed and appreciated throughout the year.
He has also successfully managed projects with external partners, including work with the Environment Agency to create natural flood management features, the London Fire Brigade to address complex underground fires and the Metropolitan Police to tackle anti-social behaviour, illegal activity and community safety issues.
During her time at Elswick, Larisa has played a key role in growing the Swim School, helping to more than double participation from 512 to 1,141 children – they now teach over 1,600 children each week through their partnerships with 21 primary schools. Larisa has also organised 106 children’s breakfast club sessions, supports families who may otherwise struggle with childcare and food costs, and secured funding to provide subsidised swimming lessons for children from lower-income families.
Larisa’s contribution extends far beyond her core role. Over the last four years, she has delivered 46 CPR, lifeguard and first aid workshops in schools and the community, sharing vital skills that can help save lives. Her dedication, compassion and selflessness are an inspiration to all who meet her.
