Waltham Forest (Parliament Politics Magazine) – A former nursing assistant from Leytonstone, Waltham Forest, has been named a finalist in national awards by Contact for her dedicated care of her friend’s critically ill daughter.
Linda Dennison is one of the eighteen finalists from six orders who have been shortlisted in the” Friendship First” order. The winners will be announced at a special awards form at the House of Lords in Waltham Forest.
The Contact Awards are intended to recognize the outstanding but constantly overlooked sweats made by parents, cousins, and musketeers who help families in the UK with children who have disabilities.
Linda’s friend Melanie nominated her for this award saying:
“I’ve known Linda since I was at preschool. She worked for Guys and St. Thomas Hospital, and when I was pregnant my daughter Leisha was given only three days to live. Linda always told me not to worry and always encouraged me to stay positive during my pregnancy.”
When Leisha was born she was in Intensive Care, Linda would be at the hospital very often for long periods with me encouraging me continuously even though she could see that I had given up hope on Leisha living.
Linda would also accompany us to Great Ormond Street Hospital to regular appointments over many years of Leisha’s childhood, and visit us three to four days a week and even do babysitting so that I could have a bath take a nap or go shopping. Every parent or carer needs a friend like Linda.”
Anna Bird, CEO of Contact says:
“At Contact, we often hear from families when they’re struggling to access the support their child needs and that’s what we’re here for. But it’s equally important to celebrate the positives: the strength, solidarity, and joy that come from this too.
I was genuinely inspired by the story of Linda and the friendship she shares with Melanie and her daughter. The kindness, encouragement, hope and practical support she offers makes a real difference – proving how powerful friendship can be.
Every nomination we receive tells a story of quiet strength and everyday heroism, and Linda’s is a perfect example. We’re so proud to celebrate people like her who make the world a more inclusive and compassionate place.”
Broadcaster Jane Garvey will caption Contact’s Awards form on Monday, November 24 at the House of Lords in Westminster.
What specific actions led to the nomination?
Linda Dennison, the ex-nursing adjunct from Leytonstone nominated for the Friendship First award, was honored for her ongoing kindness and fidelity in fostering community gemütlichkeit. Specific conduct leading to her nomination include her selfless efforts to support neighbors, offering fellowship and practical help to those feeling isolated, and promoting social cohesion through grassroots enterprise.
Her work embodies the spirit of connection and collective support, making a positive difference in her original community by erecting bonds across age groups and backgrounds. The nomination highlights her commitment to enhancing well- being and fellowship, especially among vulnerable or lonely individuals, reflecting the award’s morality of celebrating selfless community contributors.
Linda Dennison’s nomination stems from her visionary kindness, practical support, and community- structure efforts that produce meaningful friendships and social addition in Leytonstone.
