From Pam Newby, Exeter 383290, January 29,2007

HOME CARE assistant Terry Hurley-Smith is this year's winner of Devon County Council's top award for customer service.

Terry, 61, who lives in Seaton, undertook a complete career change five and a half years ago. After 40 years as an engineer, he chose to become a care assistant helping older and vulnerable people in their homes.

"I wanted to do something that would be enjoyable and also of benefit to other people," said Terry. "I really enjoy my work and get to meet people from all walks of life. Some of them are old soldiers and I say to them 'allow me to do something for you as you did so much for my generation'.

"I provide personal care for male clients and general assistance for all. Sometimes people, particularly those who are housebound, get a bit down and I see cheering them up as an important part of my job.

"The needs of the clients are so variable and sometimes, using a bit of initiative, providing a bit of extra help can make such a difference. Everyone has a care plan to meet their important needs but often, when you get to know the person better, you realise there are other things which they regard as equally important. If I can help improve someone's quality of life, I am more than happy to do so.

"Some people don't like asking for help but, if they regard you as a mate, they find it much easier."

Examples of Terry's extra help include minor household repairs and maintenance, dog walking, hospital visits, shopping for personal items and the odd game of chess.

"I get great satisfaction from my work and would recommend this job to someone who likes meeting and helping people.

"It is a fantastic job and extremely rewarding."

Terry is part of the Honiton domiciliary care team and has clients throughout East Devon including Axminster, Honiton, Sidmouth and Seaton plus the surrounding villages.

"It's a great team and I couldn't do my job without everyone's support and the high standard of training. Our managers are always there to help if we have a particular problem or concern."

Terry won the 'Going the Extra Mile' category, the citation for which reads: "Nothing is too much trouble for this person. They will always do more than expected of them and be happy to do so. They never let colleagues or customers down and never make excuses."

He was chosen as the overall winner from 11 staff and teams of workers at Devon County Council who were commended for their commitment, care and service with a smile beyond the call of duty. Their cheerful, positive and dedicated performances were celebrated in the annual Customer Service Awards.

The award nominations were considered by a judging panel including Councillor Des Hannon, Executive Support Member for Customer Service and Improvement, and Judith Davey, Corporate Customer Service Development Manager. There were almost 100 nominations reflecting the high levels of service that County Council provides. All were nominated by colleagues.

Councillor Des Hannon, Executive Support Member for Customer Service, said: "Terry is an inspiration. In particular, many men aren't good at receiving personal help at whatever stage of life. I'm no better than most. Terry clearly has a great gift for getting alongside people and breaking through the stigma. Obviously Terry's caring attitude extends to everyone he serves, but the reassurance he gives men is really appreciated."

Corporate Customer Service Development Manager Judith Davey said: "The quality of nominations was consistently high, but Terry's nomination stood out because of the warmth and compassion he demonstrates in his work. His face was a picture when his name was called out as the overall winner!"

Terry's manager Dave Boulton said: 'I am very proud of Terry's achievement and the recognition of a member of my team for this prestigious award. I know that I have lots of 'Terrys' in my team and this award also reflects positively on the whole team."

Terry was nominated by colleague Lesley Pinkett who said: "Terry was the perfect candidate for this category. Anyone who has cared for elderly and/or sick relatives will know that it can be physically hard, mentally taxing and emotionally draining.

"Terry is always conscious of the bigger picture when he visits clients. He never views the clients as just clients - they are people who become friends.

"One client said that Terry was good for people's morale, boosted their confidence and always left them in good spirits because he is such a good listener. That person no longer needs the service but has come to consider Terry as a friend and he still makes time to call in and see the person from time to time. Nothing is too much trouble for him. He will do the small extra things that make the difference to the person's quality of life. He is always cheerful and has a positive attitude which goes a long way towards making things better for the people he cares for."

Note to Editors:

Cllr Hannon can be contacted on 01884 253627.

For more information contact the Media PR Service on 01392 383290 or 383654.