NHS Heroes: Families praise hard work and commitment of support worker

Throughout the 32 years she has been helping special needs children and their parents, Kath Surtees has developed a reputation for going "above and beyond the call of duty".

As a key figure at Leeds Mencap, she helps 27 families cope with the turbulence that comes with raising a child with a disability.

While the 56-year-old admits to having a "hectic" work schedule, to those she assists, her practical and emotional guidance is invaluable.

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"She's extremely committed, extremely caring and extremely knowledgeable," said Rachel Rutherford, whose three-year-old son Alex has cerebral palsy. "I don't know anyone who works harder."

That dedication is now being acknowledged – Ms Surtees is a finalist in the Yorkshire Post NHS Health and Social Care Hero of the Year Award 2010.

For three days a week, she works at the Hawthorn Family Support Centre in the East End Park area of Leeds. Hawthorn is run by Leeds Mencap and offers practical and emotional support to families who have a child with special needs under the age of three.

Ms Surtees also spends two days as a Portage home visitor, talking to families from all parts of the city in their homes.

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But even when she's away from her job, she doesn't switch off. "If she's out and sees something that would be useful for one of the children she'll buy it," said Ms Rutherford, 41. "She brought in a special mat for Alex that meant his toys wouldn't fall off his tray."

After being born 16 weeks prematurely, Alex cannot sit up or walk on his own and he can only occasionally grip things. Attending the Hawthorn Centre helped him considerably improve his communication skills and gave Rachel and her partner, John, the tools to face future challenges.

Ms Rutherford added. "It's not just because of what Kath's done for my family, I nominated her on behalf of what she does with everyone."

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