About
For the work that rarely gets a stage
The Elysian Awards recognise people and organisations who bring compassion, creativity and courage to education, care, therapy, outreach and community services. Often without anyone noticing.
Why they exist
Across education, therapy, community services and alternative provision there are people and organisations working in ways that do not fit neatly into traditional systems. The work is complex, relational and at times hard to define, and it has a real and lasting impact on the lives of children, young people, families and communities.
These awards were created to recognise that kind of work. The everyday practice behind the outcomes. The consistency, the judgement, the care, and the commitment it takes to support someone in a way that is meaningful to them.
We shine a light on people who champion inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed practice, who lead with empathy and courage, who offer creative and nature-based support, and who build programmes that are person-led, purposeful and full of hope.
The founder
Dr Charlotte Williams
Dr Charlotte Williams is the founder and CEO of Elysian, leading the development of therapeutic education, animal assisted interventions and training across the organisation. With over twenty five years of experience across social work, mental health and leadership, she built Elysian from the ground up into a recognised provision working with children, young people and families who need a more considered and relational approach.
Her work centres on creating environments where children and young people can engage, regulate and develop in ways that are meaningful to them. The Elysian Awards reflect that same commitment: recognising work that often goes unseen but has a significant and lasting impact.
Good practice is not defined by systems or labels. It is defined by the difference it makes to the person in front of you.
Where the Awards come from
Elysian started in 2015, from a background working with children and young people who were not managing in traditional systems and were being offered very limited options. A derelict farm was bought, animals were acquired, training was undertaken, and it developed from there, shaped by what was seen day to day.
The focus stayed on relationships, consistency, and creating environments where children and young people could actually engage and feel comfortable. Animals became part of that work because of the difference they made, but they have always sat within a wider, creative and considered approach.
Over time this grew into multiple sites across Surrey and Hampshire, including specialist provisions and outreach support, and then into training and development work that shares what has been learnt in practice with other professionals.
The Elysian Awards come from the same place: a recognition that there are many people doing thoughtful, creative work with children, young people and families that often goes unseen.