A LIFETIME achievement award has been given to a Salisbury CEO for her outstanding contribution to the lives of vulnerable children, young people, and families.

The Children and Young People Awards recognised the accomplishments from across the social care sector with 11 finalists in the Lifetime Achievement category. 

The award went to the founder and chief executive at Five Rivers Child Care, Pam McConnell.

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Pam was joined by colleagues at the award ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham on Thursday, October 6.

She said: “What an honour it is to be nominated and to win the Lifetime Achievement Award. It’s important for me to recognise all of the staff, and incredible foster carers, who work alongside me to turn children’s lives around.

“Five Rivers wouldn’t be what it is today without you all. It was a privilege to be sat beside some amazing nominees and I’d like to congratulate them and recognise the huge difference they have made in their careers.”  

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Pam trained as a social worker, foster carer, and therapist, and founded Five Rivers Child Care in 1989 which has its social enterprise headquarters in Salisbury.

In its 33 years, the organisation has grown significantly with more than 500 staff internationally and has supported thousands of children with adverse childhood experiences through education, fostering and residential and therapeutic services.  

Pam added: “It’s hard to believe it’s been 33 years since Five Rivers Child Care opened its doors, and since then, we have been able to help thousands of children in care across England and Ireland.

“A personal mission of mine has been to raise awareness of the needs of children in care and the challenges they face during their lifetime to ensure they receive the right support to give them the best chance possible to live safe and healthy lives, and to realise their full potential as they grow. I hope this will be my legacy.”