A SUPER-FIT service manager from Drefach Felindre who played a pivotal role in creating a new home for adults with learning difficulties is in line to win a top care award.

Katie Owen, 26, has been shortlisted as a finalist at the prestigious Wales Care Awards, known as the social care Oscars.

She has been nominated in category for Excellence in Learning Disabilities & Mental Health Services, sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care (Silver) and All Care South Wales.

Katie was just 11 months into her new job with care providers Regard when she was asked to set up a brand-new supported living facility, Caeronnen, in Llangrannog.

An avid gym-goer and weight lifter, Katie has even brought in her love of fitness in to help her charges, including judo sessions and for one resident, a boxing bag in the garage.

“One of our tenants suffers a lot from anxiety and negative thoughts and so he wants to do more boxing to help get that out,” she said.

“Exercise is about discipline and keeping active and can also be a distraction, so it’s a great calmer for our service users.”

She will be attending the glittering ceremony at Cardiff City Hall on 19 October.

Katie was put forward for the award by her manager, Julie Davies, who said: “She has worked tirelessly to ensure their lives have been greatly enhanced.”

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