This year's #MentalHealthAwareness week the Club are proud to share that disabled County fan Steve Chetnik has been nominated for the “Best Achievement in Voluntary Employment People Award" which is presented by the Care Management Group (CMG).
Disabled County supporter Steve Chetnik has Autism, but this has not stopped him from volunteering for Newport County for nearly 18 months.
He has hardly missed any home games in that time and is a popular member of the team who provides assistance to our disabled supporters.
“He’s always there to move a cone for me to park and always greets us and has a chat about the game. He is very enthusiastic and enjoys what he does” one of our disabled supporters recalled.
Michell Urrutia, Steve’s key worker has noticed a significant difference in his mental health, stating: “His personality and attitude has completely changed since working at County, he’s getting better all the time. Nothing comes before County, he loves it”.
Steve could receive this award during Mental Health Awareness Week, highlighting the brilliant with the impact it has had on him and his mental health.
Club Chairman Gavin Foxall testifies ”Steve goes to the very heart of why I’m personally involved in our club. As a community club we strive to create an environment which is welcoming for all and Steve epitomises that with the work he undertakes on match days. I have seen how Steve has developed in a short space of time becoming an important match day volunteer. Well done Steve it’s been a pleasure to get to know you.”
This evening Steve travels to the Hilton Hotel in Reading as a finalist in a national competition.
We spoke to Steve about his time with County and he told us it makes him “feel happy and is great to be a part of things, especially with the team doing so well this year”, as you speak to him you can see how his face lights up talking about the club and his involvement and it is quite apparent the positive affect that the club has on Steve and his mental health.
The Club has provided evidence for his submission and everyone at the club wishes Steve good luck, we are immensely proud of him whatever happens.
Long may his role continue to contribute to his positive mental health and wellbeing.