On Thursday 12th December, SENAD Community West Midlands organised a community walk open to their service users and support staff. A group gathered at a local country park for their walk and had a lovely time reflecting on the year they have had and the upcoming festivities. With it being national Christmas Jumper Day, some even chose to wear their best Christmas Jumpers while others chatted to members of their wider community as they passed! The group joined each other at the end of the walk in the local coffee shop to enjoy a warm drink and continue socialising. It demonstrated the unwavering strength of the diverse and welcoming culture that SENAD Community foster within their own ‘SENAD community.’ There were many smiles, laughs, conversations and interactions shared between all in attendance. We look forward to our next community walk on Christmas Eve and continuing them into the New Year. 

The SENAD Community staff team has recently completed a food drive for the local food bank, @coventry_foodbank who have collected a fantastic 8 crates full of food today.

The team has been donating food, as well as money, which we have used to go and purchase the items that the food bank has highlighted are in high demand (long-life milk, tinned tomatoes, cereals)

‘Hi Laura Please thank everyone for the donation received today for the food bank. The grand total of the weight donated was 127.4kg!’

For the past 20 years, Ian Lineker has been a cornerstone of the SENAD Community team, bringing unparalleled dedication, enthusiasm, and care to his roles. Starting as a support worker and growing into team leader and trainer positions, Ian has worn many hats, each with an unwavering commitment to the people he supports and the colleagues he mentors.

Ian’s journey began two decades ago when he joined SENAD with a passion for making a real difference in people’s lives. From day one, he stood out for his heartfelt approach to care, showing an instinctive ability to connect with each individual he supports. Over the years, Ian has cultivated not only his skill set but also the hearts and minds of those around him. He is known for his patience, his ability to listen deeply, and his relentless optimism. No matter the challenge, Ian brings a sense of calm and positivity that reassures everyone he meets.

As a support worker, Ian was constantly thinking of ways to enhance the lives of those in his care. Whether it was helping someone build new skills, encouraging personal growth, or simply being a trusted staff member, Ian has always believed in the potential of each person. His colleagues remember him as someone who could bring out a smile in anyone, even on their toughest days. This empathy and genuine interest in others earned him a reputation as a dependable carer.

Ian’s transition to team leader was a natural progression, as his colleagues were drawn to his leadership qualities. As a team leader, he has been both a guide and an advocate, always putting the well-being of his team members first. He fosters an environment of mutual respect, inspiring his team to approach their roles with the same passion and commitment that he does. His patience and support have made him a mentor to many, with new team members often looking to Ian for guidance. Ian’s team members know that they can count on him not only for professional support but also for a listening ear and an understanding heart.

As a trainer, Ian’s influence extends further, allowing him to shape SENAD’s next generation of support workers. His training sessions are marked by his warmth and a sense of purpose, as he shares stories and lessons from his own experiences. He approaches each trainee with the same respect and care that he brings to his daily work, ensuring they feel prepared, confident, and inspired. Ian doesn’t just teach skills—he imparts a philosophy of compassionate, person-centered care that has become part of SENAD’s ethos.

Through every role, Ian’s enthusiasm remains contagious. He comes to work each day with a smile and an unbreakable commitment to making a difference. Whether he’s sitting with someone to help them reach a personal milestone, cheering on a colleague, or lending a helping hand, Ian brings energy, kindness, and integrity to everything he does.

SENAD is grateful for Ian’s two decades of service and the incredible legacy he continues to build. His dedication has left an indelible mark on everyone he’s worked with, and his commitment to uplifting others serves as a daily reminder of the impact one person can have. Here’s to Ian—20 years of care, compassion, and countless lives touched.

Thank you to Michelle Gould, Registered Manager, SENAD Community Coventry.