Caretaker and Concierge of the Year awards celebrate borough’s unsung heroes

In a difficult year where many people have spent a lot more time at home than usual, Islington’s caretakers and concierge staff have been going to work each day, looking after Islington’s estates and blocks. They often go above and beyond to make sure vulnerable or isolated residents are getting the help that they need.     

It is clear that their hard work is appreciated, as within just a month the council received 270 nominations for the Caretaker and Concierge of the Year awards. Once these were collected up, a judging panel decided on this year’s outstanding winners.   

The Caretaker of the Year is Francis Oduro, who works on the King Square Estate. Francis was last year’s winner and again this year received many nominations from residents for his friendly and positive attitude, willingness to help everyone, and continual hard work.  

One nominator described Francis as “the nicest, most hard-working man”, adding: “Francis goes above and beyond on our estate. He’s so friendly, and will do whatever he can to help.”   

Meanwhile, the winner of Concierge of the Year is Lat Singh, who works at Kestrel House. Lat is one of Islington's longest-serving concierges and was praised for his professionalism and for going the extra mile in supporting residents. 

One of Lat’s nominations said he is “always attentive, always available to help, and always willing to go that extra mile”.  

The runners-up were Terry Smith, concierge at Turnpike House, John Lynch, caretaker at Bevin Court, and Darren Ewens, caretaker at the Popham Estate.  

Cllr Diarmaid Ward, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Housing and Development, said: “We’re so grateful to the dedicated, hard-working caretakers and concierges in Islington who do such an incredible job year in, year out to give local people the best possible service.   

“One of the council’s main priorities is making sure that all of our residents have a decent, comfortable home to live in, and our neighbourhood staff play a massive role in helping to achieve this.   

“This year, the coronavirus pandemic has meant that our caretakers and concierges have had to work extra hard to ensure that vulnerable or isolated residents are getting the support that they need, and their efforts are very much appreciated.  

“I would like to congratulate and thank Francis, Lat and all of the borough’s incredible neighbourhood staff for their hard work during this challenging period.”  

The winners will be presented with their awards as soon as it is safe to do so.