Tricia Catell

A staff member whose work supporting bereaved children and families is “exceptional” has been nominated for Employee of the Year sponsored by Reading Buses.

Tricia Catell has “11 years of dedicated service” at Daisy’s Dream which provides support for children and young people who have been affected by bereavement

“Her previous extensive experience working with children and families in various social work roles has enabled her to make a profound impact,” said her nominator.

“Tricia’s personal journey of adoption, her experience of providing foster care to teenagers and her volunteer work with the Samaritans, provide her with deep empathy and understanding of loss and trauma.

“Her work supporting bereaved children and families is exceptional,” they said.

“Tricia’s calm, knowledgeable, and compassionate approach consistently offers comfort and practical help to those in crisis.

“She has gone above and beyond – recently providing ongoing emotional and practical advice to a dad in a challenging case where the mum died very quickly from cancer, as well as seeing the children regularly to support their grief.”

They said she understands the needs of beneficiaries, recently advocating for a teenager to access better support at school, having lost both his parents.

Despite battling illness herself in the last 12 months, Tricia’s “unwavering commitment to Daisy’s Dream and the families she serves is inspiring.

“Her dedication, resilience, and genuine care exemplify the best of our organisation’s values,” said her nominator.

“Tricia's immense knowledge, compassion, and selflessness truly make her an asset, and recognising her with this award would honour her extraordinary contributions and the profound difference she makes each day,” they added.