A Bradford-based care service supporting adults with learning disabilities and autism has been named a finalist in the 2025 National Lived Experience Awards.

The awards, organised by leading health and social care company, Cygnet Group, celebrate service user-led initiatives in mental health, learning disability, and autism services across the UK.

Beacon House, in Wibsey, Bradford, part of the Cygnet Social Care division, has been shortlisted in the Social Care Star category for its innovative, resident-led approach to care.

The winners will be announced during a ceremony on September 23 at Colwick Hall, Nottingham, where service users from across the country will gather for an evening themed “Bridgerton and Rainbows”, as chosen by the lived experience events team.

A panel of head judges and lived experience judges evaluated the anonymous nominations during a judging day held on 24 July, focusing on co-production, service user involvement, and project uniqueness. The panel praised the exceptional quality of this year’s submissions and carefully shortlisted finalists who demonstrate innovation and meaningful collaboration.

Beacon House’s nomination highlighted its “doing with” philosophy, empowering residents to take an active role in shaping their environment and daily lives. At the service, residents lead initiatives such as monthly party planning, creating activity timetables, and designing their own living spaces. This includes an award-winning “Under the Sea” sensory room, a project born from a shared interest among residents.

The nomination read: “This collaborative approach extends to daily life, from choosing decorations to planning holidays. By consistently seeking resident feedback and transparently showing how their input leads to real change, Beacon House fosters a culture of independence, community, and well-being. This model proves that a resident-led environment can significantly enhance quality of life and deliver truly personalised care.”

Beacon House Manager Jeff Firth said: “Beacon House is thrilled to be recognised by the National Lived Experience Awards as a finalist for Social Care Star. This acknowledgement reinforces the dedication we share in embracing Cygnet values of Care, Respect, Empower, Trust, and Integrity. It inspires us to continue pushing boundaries to ensure those we support have both a voice and opportunities to experience life to the fullest.”

The National Lived Experience Awards began in 2013, inspired by service users at Cygnet Hospital Derby who wanted to recognise the achievements of their peers. Since then, the event has grown into an annual celebration hosted at venues such as Silverstone Circuit, Old Trafford, and Pride Park.

This year’s event is supported by headline sponsor Ciela Costa, with additional sponsorship from Sustainable Advantage, Central Computers, Delaware, Cyber One, Audience Link, Blue Leaf, and U Energy Group.