A MAN inspired by his younger brother to embark on a career in social care is now continuing the caring legacy his parents started.

For three years Christopher Dunn has been at the helm of Laurel Leaf Support Ltd in Witney, which provides support and care primarily to adults with a learning disability.

But his journey into the social care sector all began years before with his younger brother Thomas, 34, who has complex learning disabilities and now lives in Somerset.

The 37-year-old who lives in Witney said: "I tried a few bits and bobs, I was in the police force for a while but I knew in my heart of hearts my passion was always going to be in social care.

"My parents set up an organisation called the Laurels in 1977.

"They retired and I was a line manager at the time.

"I then I took over and changed the name and took the company forward to what it is today."

The father-of-two has made it his mission to ensure adults with learning disabilities have the opportunity to explore and enjoy their interests.

The service runs a 'together group' during the week where clients with similar interests meet and carry out activities around a particular theme.

He added: "Whenever I was with my brother people would just address me, it was like he was invisible.

“And I would then turn the conversation back to him

“It is important that as well as running our home care service and outreach support, we also have workshops and activities where people with learning disabilities can explore their hobbies such as music and art."

Last year Mr Dunn received a letter through the post from Age UK Oxfordshire, informing him he was the winner of the 'leadership' Dignity in Care Awards.

As nominations open for this year's award, Mr Dunn said it was extremely important for them to continue running in the future.

He added: "I was delighted and it meant a lot to me to know that the work I am doing is actually making a difference and making a positive effect to people's lives.

"And to have that recognition from someone you have supported and their families is just brilliant.

"There is nothing better for me then when I see a smile on their face because we have helped them continue to live their life as independently as possible.

"I think it is very important because it recognises the work that people are doing in the area."

Mr Dunn had been nominated by the family of a client he supported.

In their nomination they wrote: "Christopher has been supporting our son for over three years and he treats his service users with dignity and respect for their individual needs. We feel that he has gone more than the extra mile to provide a good service.

"By way of example, he has arranged annual Christmas balls for all of his clients, pub nights, holidays, the opportunity for our son to visit his friends (other clients) for lunch or tea and other similar experiences.

"Christopher’s staff have been with him a good long time and we feel this is a testament to a good and well respected manager."

For more information about this year's awards visit ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire/news--campaigns/dignityincare