Havering adult social care worker Joanne receives police commendation
Joanne Case went above and beyond the call of duty to help a vulnerable man
A Havering Council adult social care worker has been awarded a police commendation for going above and beyond the call of duty to help a vulnerable resident with dementia.
Joanne Case came to the rescue when she recognised an elderly man with dementia on the street.
The community care assessor in the Council’s adult social care service was on her way home from work when she saw the vulnerable man being assisted by police.
She quickly jumped out of her car and offered to accompany the officers and the man back to his home.
This week she received a Borough Commander’s Commendation for her “professionalism, dedication and compassion in selflessly safeguarding a vulnerable adult whilst off duty.”
Chief Inspector Lisa Butterfield, who read out the commendation, said it was a great example of the police and Council working together.
She said: “Joanne’s actions both assisted the officers at the scene, made the experience more positive for the male concerned and showed a real level of care and compassion above and beyond anything she needed to do.”
The ceremony heard that Joanne’s actions helped officers to establish contact with the man’s family and also to realise that his care arrangements had broken down which allowed an review to be carried out into his care. She also took the time to make him dinner and a cup of tea.
Joanne said: "I was quite shocked. As far as I’m concerned I was just doing my job. I was driving along the road and saw the gentleman, who I recognised and knew he had a dementia diagnosis. I could see that he was obviously distressed and confused. I felt that it was an act that any individual would carry out if they see another individual in need of help."
Following the ceremony she said: “It was quite overwhelming, but also very nice.”
Councillor Jason Frost, Havering’s Cabinet member for Adult Services and Health, said:
“I am delighted that Joanne has received this award, as she didn’t hesitate to step in and support a resident who was desperately in need. She is a true professional and this award is well deserved.”