Sharon Leonard was recognised this week by the Queen for her forty years of dedicated service to Active Prospects at a Buckingham Palace Garden Party.
During the event, Sharon had the opportunity to meet the royal couple and shake hands with the Queen. Reflecting on the experience, Sharon shared, “It was an incredible day and I will remember it forever. To shake the Queen’s hand was an honour. I loved attending with my Dad, and he was so proud.” This special moment was made possible thanks to the generosity of the National Care Forum, a representative body of not-for-profit care providers.
Sharon’s journey in the care sector began in 1983 at the Manor Hospital, a much different setting from the supported living and residential care environments we see today. Her career evolved from these early days to a more fulfilling role at Active Prospects, helping people with learning disabilities and autistic people to move out of institutional settings into their own homes.
Sharon has been a part of this transformation in care over the past forty years, led by providers like Active Prospects, which has seen autistic people and people with learning disabilities able to live more fulfilling, independent lives in their own homes.
Maria Mills, CEO Active Prospects, said, “We wish to again thank the National Care Forum for this wonderful opportunity to celebrate Sharon’s dedication to care. The recognition at Buckingham Palace serves as a testament to Sharon’s impact within care and highlights the importance of empathy and dedication in transforming lives.”
