Best of the best celebrated as Lifeways reveals 2026 CHOICE Awards winners
Lifeways is celebrating some of its extraordinary team members who bring its CHOICE values to life, by announcing the winners of its 2026 Annual CHOICE Awards.
The award winners have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to Lifeways’ values of Caring, Honest, One Team, Innovative, Courageous and Equal. Selected from nominations received throughout the year, each winner has made a lasting impact on the people they support, their team members and the wider Lifeways community.
From supporting people through major life changes and championing inclusion, to leading through challenges and delivering exceptional care, everyone on this list has made a meaningful difference to the lives of the people they support. Meet out winners:
Jennifer Damer
Jennifer has been recognised for her exceptional leadership, professionalism and resilience during a period of significant change. Since joining her newly aligned team, she has provided unwavering support to team members and services, helping maintain continuity and high standards in challenging circumstances. From supporting inspections to coordinating across multiple registrations,
Jennifer has been a trusted, reliable presence whose commitment to the people we support, and her team members exemplifies every aspect of the CHOICE values.
Chantry Close Team
The Chantry Close team has been honoured for the extraordinary compassion, professionalism and dignity they demonstrated while supporting a person we support living with cancer during their final weeks. Throughout an emotionally challenging period, the team worked together tirelessly, maintaining exceptional standards of care, supporting one another and ensuring the individual received the best possible quality of life. Their dedication was recognised by the family, who expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the support provided.
It's also important to recognise Chantry Close team member Pauline Mdlongwa, who was also our FY25 Choice Award winner.
Rachel Haddaway
Rachel [pictured at top] is being recognised for consistently going above and beyond to help the people she supports achieve their goals and aspirations. Her dedication has contributed to several life-changing outcomes, including supporting individuals to stop smoking, purchase a new car and enjoy a dream holiday to Disneyland Paris.
Rachel's planning, organisation and leadership have also contributed to positive service outcomes, and she continues to be an outstanding role model for her team members.
Andrew Akheituame
Andrew has been recognised for his unwavering integrity, respect and commitment to person-centred support. Known for creating trusting relationships and ensuring every person he supports feels heard and valued, Andrew consistently advocates for individuals' wellbeing while maintaining the highest professional standards.
His compassionate approach and dedication make a lasting difference to the lives of those around him.
Tracey Weavers
Tracey has been honoured for her incredible commitment in assisting three people we support through a significant house move while ensuring their voices remained central to every decision. Alongside helping them settle into their new home, she also organised a memorable first-ever holiday to Disneyland Paris for one individual.
Her dedication, organisation and determination helped create positive and life-enhancing experiences during a major period of change.
Charlotte Burns
Charlotte is being recognised for her outstanding courage, resilience and professionalism following a traumatic incident at work. Remaining calm under immense pressure, she provided reassurance and support to those affected while managing a complex situation with compassion and care.
Her strength, positivity and determination in the aftermath have inspired both team members and the people she supports, who later voted her Employee of the Month.
Dorrianna Gulland
Dorrianna has been celebrated for the exceptional autism support she provides at The Haven. Her ability to understand and respond to individual needs has earned praise from team members and families alike, with parents specifically recognising her outstanding care, empathy and expertise.
Dorrianna's dedication helps ensure people receive the personalised support they need to thrive.
Finance Management Team
The Finance Management Team, comprising Katharine Otter, Andrea Ellison and Carl Wilkinson, has been recognised for its teamwork, resilience and determination in successfully delivering the Burgess Care Water project.
After years of work, the team achieved an outcome that will have a lasting positive impact on the service. Their commitment and collaborative approach demonstrate the vital role support functions play in improving environments and experiences for the people we support.