A Wrexham care worker diagnosed with autism at 29 has reached the final of a national awards ceremony.
Henry Greenwood, a senior support worker at Llanerchrugog Hall Residential Care Home in Rhosllanerchrugog, only recently discovered he was autistic after undergoing tests and assessments earlier this year.
He said the diagnosis was a "blessing," helping him to better understand himself and his dedication to supporting vulnerable people.
His compassion and empathy have now earned him a place in the final of the Wales Care Awards 2024, which recognises the outstanding dedication and talents of those in the care sector.
Mr Greenwood said: "I was a bit taken aback to be honest.
"I just do my job - I don’t do it for any praise or recognition.
"I’m genuinely happy that the residents always have a smile on their faces by the time I go home."
Born and raised in Portsmouth, Mr Greenwood moved to Wales 10 years ago.
He initially pursued an engineering course at Havant and South Downs College in Hampshire, but soon felt a strong pull towards the care sector.
Both his father and two older brothers work at Llanerchrugog Hall, with his father serving as manager.
Mr Greenwood secured his first job as a support worker there 12 years ago.
He said: "My dad was a teacher at a special school when I was growing up and I used to go with him on teacher training days.
"So, from a very young age, I saw the impact you can have on people’s lives and how rewarding it is."
As a senior support worker, Mr Greenwood now cares for a diverse group of individuals aged from 18 to 85 with a wide range of needs including dementia, autism, Down syndrome, Korsakoff's syndrome, and post-stroke recovery.
He was nominated for the Wales Care Awards by his father, the home’s manager, Peter Greenwood, who said he "shines brightest" in his direct interactions with the people he supports.
Reflecting on his recent autism diagnosis, Mr Greenwood said: "For me, the diagnosis came late.
"Personally, I’d always known there was something there but having that diagnosis helped me to have more understanding about who I am and why I am the way I am."
Mario Kreft MBE, the chair of Care Forum Wales, said: "Our aim is to recognise the unstinting and often remarkable dedication of our unsung heroes and heroines on the front line of social care across Wales.
"The care sector is full of wonderful people because it’s not just a job it’s a vocation – these are the people who really do have the X Factor.
"If you don’t recognise the people who do the caring you will never provide the standards that people need and never recognise the value of the people who need the care in society.
"We need to do all we can to raise the profile of the care sector workforce - they deserve to be lauded and applauded.
"It is a pleasure to honour the contribution of all the finalists.
"Each and every one of them should be very proud of their achievement."
The winners of the Wales Care Awards 2024 will be announced at a ceremony at Holland House Hotel in Cardiff on Friday, October 18.
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