Derventio colleague recognised for promoting dignity

A member of staff at Derventio Housing Trust has been recognised for their exceptional commitment to promoting dignity, receiving a ‘Recognition for your Contribution to Promoting Dignity’ certificate as part of Dignity Action Month.

The award was presented on 2 February 2026 during Dignity Action Day, hosted by the Derby and Derbyshire Safeguarding Adults Board (DSAB). The event celebrates professionals who consistently uphold dignity, respect and person-centred practice. Certificates were presented by Richard Proctor, Independent Chair of Derby SAB, Amanda Clarke, Independent Chair of Derbyshire SAB and the Mayor of Derby, Councillor Ajit Singh Atwal.

Following nominations from professional agencies across Derby and Derbyshire, a panel from the SAB’s MSP Subgroup selected the top five individuals to receive the award. One of those recognised was Joe Michael, Senior Training Mentor at Derventio Housing Trust.

Joe was recognised for consistently placing respect, empathy and integrity at the heart of his work, going above and beyond his role to improve outcomes for residents and colleagues. His strong commitment to ethical working, safeguarding and zero tolerance for poor practice has made him a trusted and respected presence across services.

A key example of his person-centred approach is his work at Derventio’s Growing Lives project, where he independently designed and delivered an inclusive peer mentoring course. The course empowered participants to build confidence, share lived experience and support one another in a safe and dignified environment. By introducing a second course, Joe ensured equal access and tackled issues such as loneliness, isolation and low self-esteem.

Beyond resident facing work, Joe also champions dignity within the staff team through mentoring, safeguarding support and neurodiversity awareness, helping to create an inclusive and respectful workplace culture.

Congratulations Joe on this well deserved recognition!