Award winner (2025)13th June 2025
Jess has always been someone who puts others first. Whether she’s helping elderly customers at the British Heart Foundation shop, volunteering for inclusive social events, or caring for her neighbour, she brings warmth, joy and thoughtfulness to everything she does. But behind her big heart is a story of resilience and strength.
Before joining the British Heart Foundation (BHF), Jess had been through a really difficult period, where she wasn’t supported properly and experienced abuse. Eventually, she moved back in with her mum to recover and rebuild. Her mum’s encouragement helped her start volunteering at BHF – and from that point, things started to change.
Jess threw herself into the role. She sorted clothes and bric-a-brac, ran the tombola, stepped in when people were off sick, and gave amazing customer service – especially to elderly shoppers. Her natural ability to connect with people shone through. She was soon offered a paid part-time role and often took on extra shifts if her colleagues were off sick. The shop was a meaningful choice for Jess, as it was in memory of her late granddad. It’s also where she found a sense of belonging and routine.
But Jess’s achievements don’t stop there. When her Jobcoach, Rachel asked if she’d like to work to deliver Oliver McGowan training with MJ Homecare Staffing, Jess was nervous. She’d never done anything like it before. But with practice and bravery, she’s gone from small groups to confidently speaking to rooms full of professionals, sharing what it’s like to be autistic and what good support really looks like.
She’s developed her own presentation, talking openly about autism, ADD, anxiety and depression, what helps her feel safe and happy, and what others can do to support people like her. She talks about her love of music, dancing and having a laugh with her friends at the inclusive social group Lovable.
Jess’s mantra is to “just bloody get on with it”. But her achievements are also down to how deeply she cares. She offers regular support and companionship to her elderly neighbour. She helps with daily tasks like showering, making breakfast, and cleaning. What began as a volunteer role became a valued friendship, reflecting Jess’s compassionate personality.
Jess’s resilience is rooted in her own experience of being dismissed in hospital when she knew something was wrong. Despite being initially ignored, she persisted, advocated for herself, and was eventually diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). This drive to be heard and take control of her own narrative is at the heart of everything she does. Her mum, stepdad and brother have been Jess’ support system throughout everything – stepping up when she needed them most and showing her what true family means.
For Jess, winning this award from Dimensions feels amazing, and it’s the first time she’s received this kind of recognition. To everyone who knows her, it is long overdue..