04 Jun 2025
A special event recognising the personality, kindness, and spirit of people with learning disabilities across the county saw residents from St Albans collecting awards.
The Rumble Awards are designed, delivered, and performed by people with learning disabilities. This year’s theme was magic, and the event featured original performances, art, and decorations created by learning disability services from across the county.
Hosted by Neil Hoskin, a county council staff member and expert with lived experience of learning disabilities, the event shone a spotlight on the joy, humour, kindness, and community spirit that people with learning disabilities bring to our lives.
Chris Badger, HCC executive director of adult care services at said: “The Rumble Awards are a truly special event in our calendar. They remind us what really matters: kindness, joy, personality, and community. Every nominee and winner brings something unique and powerful to Hertfordshire.”
The event is organised by Pioneer Approaches, a Hertfordshire-based team made up mostly of neurodivergent people — including those with autism, ADHD or learning
disabilities. Their workshops, training, and creative programmes are designed with, not just for, people with learning disabilities and the people who support them.
The St Albans district winners were:
Jonathan Riggans – Jonathan lives in supported living and is part of a small, friendly community there. He is known for his kindness, humour, and helpfulness. He attends the Daylight Club in St Albans. He won the Good Spirit Award for his positive energy, friendship, and willingness to support others.
Emily Metcalf-Wood – Emily attends Sunnyside Rural Trust in Hemel Hempstead. She was honoured with the Good Spirit Award for her hard work, and the joy she brings through singing, joking, and friendship.
She is always out in all weathers, helping with gardening and outdoor tasks.
Paula Stratton – Paula lives in supported living and attends St Albans Day Service. She received the Brave Heart Award for her courage in facing alopecia, and for always bringing warmth, music, and joy to those around her. Paula is loved for her sense of humour and caring nature.
Laura Jacob – Laura is known for her calm strength and support for her family. She attends Passport to Leisure, and works at the Camphill Café, St Albans. Laura enjoys concerts and always remembers people’s birthdays. She was recognised with the Brave Heart Award for her quiet bravery and kindness.
Michelle Peers – Michelle, who lives in London Colney, has been part of Earthworks St Albans for many years. She won the Good Spirit Award for her deep love of nature, kindness, and welcoming spirit. She is known for her birdwatching, gardening, photography, and community involvement in events like the St Albans Farmers’ Market.
Benedict Harper – Benedict, from Harpenden, attends the Guideposts Friendship Scheme in St Albans. He won the Brave Heart Award for his creativity, caring personality, and resilience through personal loss. Benedict is known for his artwork, some of which he gives generously to others, his friendship, and his warm presence in his supported community.
