An apprentice from Worcester-based social housing and care provider Sanctuary is celebrating after picking up a second top apprenticeship award.

Customer service apprentice Emily Tidmarsh was named Intermediate Apprentice of the Year at the 2022 Worcestershire Apprenticeship Awards.

The awards, which celebrate the value of apprenticeships and their role in preparing people for successful careers with local businesses, were announced during a ceremony at West Midlands Safari Park.

Emily was recognised for her dedication and commitment to her role within Sanctuary’s care billing team, as well as her efforts to promote and champion apprenticeships to others.

The award comes hot on the heels of a previous success, when Emily was named Intermediate Apprentice of the Year at the West Midlands regional finals of the National Apprenticeship Awards.

Emily said: “I’m over the moon to have won. It was an honour just to be nominated and I never expected to win one award, let alone two.

“I’m really proud of how far I’ve come in my apprenticeship at Sanctuary and want to thank everyone who has supported me on my journey. Choosing an apprenticeship really was the best decision I ever made – I’d recommend it to anyone!”

Sanctuary also had two other finalists at the Worcestershire Apprenticeship Awards, with senior L&D partner Nikki Clay shortlisted in the Apprenticeship Champion of the Year category and information security officer Josh Reah shortlisted for Advanced Level Apprentice of the Year.

Sanctuary’s national apprenticeship programme was established in 2008 and has since supported more than 2,000 people into work, both directly and indirectly through development partners.

Apprentices work in a variety of business areas, including finance, IT, housing, business and administration and health and social care, gaining valuable workplace experience while studying for practical qualifications alongside their day-to-day role.

Michelle Wood, Sanctuary’s group head of learning and development, said: “I’d like to say a huge well done to all our nominees and particularly to Emily for her very well-deserved award.

“Apprenticeships add real value for both individuals and local employers. We’re committed to investing in them and helping people to unlock their potential and realise their ambitions.”