The fourth annual Avanta Awards was held at the House of Commons on Tuesday, 3rd November. One hundred and fifty guests came together to celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals who have overcome adversity to achieve success.

In addition, the awards honoured a successful partner organisation that has worked with us over the past 12 months as well as acknowledging an employer who we consider to have exceeded expectations to support our customers into work and training.

The event sponsor was Joan Ryan MP and it was well attended by partners, employers, sponsors and staff, as well as a number of constituency MP’s. Guest enjoyed speeches from Janette Faherty and Stuart Vere, as well as an address from the Rt Hon Jim Knight, MP, Minister of State for Work and Pensions.

The Awards were presented as follows:

• Salina Abdul-Rahim: Business Start-Up of the Year 2009, presented by Peter Brooks
• Diane Brunt: Learner of the Year 2009, presented by Peter Brooks
• Karen Thomas: Achiever of the Year 2009, presented by Peter Brooks
• Warrington Disability Partnership: Partner of the Year 2009, presented by Helen Jones MP (Labour, Warrington North)
• Telefocus: Employer of the Year 2009, presented by Nadine Dorries MP (Mid Bedfordshire)

View photo's from the event, click here.