Awards for caretakers and concierges celebrate frontline housing staff in Islington

More than 180 residents nominated 53 caretakers and concierges who made a difference for them this year. 

They often go the extra mile to help residents feel safe and happy, from helping with shopping and parcels to supporting them through difficult times in their lives.

Frederick Appiah, who works at Westbourne Estate in the Caledonian Road area, won Caretaker of the Year after receiving an impressive 60 nominations from residents who praised him for his for his compassion, dedication and attention to detail.  

One resident said Frederick is “worth his weight in gold to us,” with another adding: “We respect Frederick so much that we hold each other accountable to maintain the estate to the level that he does.” Another resident said: “We would do anything to keep him with us.”  

Frederick said: “It’s a great honour. Thanks to everyone who supported me, I really appreciate it. I joined Islington Council last year and it’s been a great move for me; I love being with everyone.” 

A familiar face to many, Janet Oparebea, who works at Weston Rise Estate in Kings Cross, won Concierge of the Year for the fourth time in a row. Janet is one of the borough's longest-serving concierges, having worked in Islington for more than 17 years.

Residents were full of praise, one saying “no request is too much for her, no task too difficult to accomplish”.  

Janet said: “I’m very happy, shocked and surprised to win. I’ve created the Weston Rise concierge as a family so everybody is happy and safe to come to me.

"I give them all the best and look after them and try to improve myself every year. The residents and my colleagues are lovely so I’m always happy to go to work.”  

Terry Smith, who works at Turnpike House near Clerkenwell, won Highly Commended for Concierge Services for the second year in a row.

“Always smiling” Terry was praised for helping a resident who was stuck in a lift and for being “a legend on King Square”. 

Jason Jones, last year’s Caretaker of the Year, was Highly Commended this year for Caretaker Services for his work at Halton Mansions near Essex Road. 

One resident described him as "a tonic” while another said: “Jason's good nature has transformed the spirit of the block, making it feel like a safer, cleaner and friendlier place to be.” 

The winners were presented with their awards at Islington Assembly Hall by Milesh Patel, Head of Estate Services, and Mark Alkadhim, Concierge Service Manager. 

Jed Young, Corporate Director of Homes and Neighbourhoods, said: “Huge congratulations and thank you to Frederick and Janet for all their hard work and dedication. 

"We’re very proud of them and of all our brilliant neighbourhood colleagues who play such a huge role in making sure our blocks and estates look their best, and residents feel safe and secure in their homes.”