A WIRRAL social care organisation has been named 'Charity of the Year' at this year's Charity Times Awards.

Community Integrated Care, which supports people across the borough and beyond who have learning disabilities, autism and mental health concerns, was honoured at the prestigious, national awards on October 2.

Judges praised the charity for 'disrupting the status quo' and acting 'as mavericks’ with its launch of a new five-year strategy called ‘We Dare.'

We Dare aims to support organisational growth from its current £120m annual income to a £200m turnover within five years, so the charity can reach and change the lives of more people than ever before.

By doing this, it is hoped more will be directly invested into developing the highest quality care and support services.

Chief executive of Community Integrated Care Mark Adams said: “Winning this award recognises the impact that our charity delivers in enabling people to lead fuller, happier lives, in what is a time of genuine challenge for the social care sector.

"It also acknowledges the importance of the charity sector and social care providers like ours in standing up for what matters most in society and shaping inclusive communities, where everyone is valued.

"Like all care providers, Community Integrated Care is constrained and challenged by the current political and economic climate.

"However, we think it is important that organisations like ours continue to innovate, act strategically and speak out, so we can sustain a sector that is the absolute backbone of our nation.

"Our strategic intent makes clear that we are committed to investing in our people, developing incredible projects and creating pioneering partnerships.

"We are still in the early stages of this strategy and we know that there is much more to deliver in the years ahead.

"Community Integrated Care is absolutely motived by the journey ahead and excited for what we, and our partners across the sector, can achieve in the future.”

Other schemes from the charity include the Learning Disability Super League, created in collaboration with rugby Super League and RFL governing bodies to create a world-first sports programme for people with support needs.