Making Space support worker attends Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace

Published 12 May 2025

We are proud to share that Tony Linney, a dedicated Support Worker from our Huddersfield Road Supported Living Service in Holmfirth, attended Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on 7 May 2025, accompanied by his partner, Joanne.

The invitation is a prestigious recognition of Tony’s outstanding commitment to social care. He was nominated by Making Space for his unwavering passion, kindness, and exceptional support for the young adults he works with, many of whom live with complex needs. Over his years with Making Space, Tony has become a shining example of compassionate, person-centred care.

Talking of his experience of the day, Tony said:

We felt incredibly honoured to be invited into the grounds of Buckingham Palace for the Royal Garden Party. The weather was kind to us and the whole experience felt truly special. From the beautiful afternoon tea accompanied by the Royal Band, to the unforgettable moment when the King and the royal party came out to meet guests, it was a day we will always remember with pride and gratitude.

Tony has worked with Making Space for 4 years, becoming a vital part of his service and local community. In 2024, his dedication was recognised at the Yorkshire and Humber regional Great British Care Awards, where he was named Support Worker of the Year, a well-deserved win after three nominations. Tony was honoured for his unwavering support for young adults at Huddersfield Road Supported Living, his tireless advocacy, and his commitment to delivering care rooted in dignity, respect, and empowerment.

Tony’s nomination for a place at the event from his Regional Head of Operations, Jenny Macleod said:

Tony is the heart and soul of this service, driving positive change not only within his team but also in the lives of the people he supports. He embodies the essence of an outstanding home care worker, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to improving the care we provide to the young people living at the service.

The Royal Garden Parties are held each summer in the beautiful gardens of Buckingham Palace and the Palace of Holyrood House in Edinburgh. Each year, more than 30,000 guests from across the UK are invited in recognition of their service to others and contributions to their communities. Attendees enjoy live music from military bands, a stroll through the gardens, and an exquisite traditional afternoon tea.

Members of the Royal Family spend the afternoon meeting and chatting with guests, with presentations and conversations taking place throughout the grounds. It’s a unique and memorable day, one that Tony and his wife will surely treasure.

Making Space CEO, Rachel Peacock shared her delight:

We are incredibly proud that Tony represented Making Space at the Royal Garden Party. It’s such a special honour, and so well deserved. Tony’s dedication to empowering the people he supports, his care, and his compassion shine through in everything he does. Recognising individuals like Tony, who dedicate their lives to social care, is so important, and we couldn’t be happier to see him celebrated on such a grand stage.

Tony’s invitation is not only a personal achievement but a celebration of everything we stand for at Making Space - kind hearts, compassion, respect, and making a difference every day.