Thirteen-year-old Olivia Rudge, from Cradley Heath has been shortlisted for an award by national disability charity, Sense.

The nomination recognises the challenges she has overcome since the Covid pandemic and the progress she has made with her development.

Olivia, who is non-verbal and has multiple disabilities, has been shortlisted for the ‘Young Person of the Year’ award at the annual Sense Awards.

When the pandemic began, Olivia’s support ceased and her routine was turned upside down, leaving her upset and frustrated as she couldn’t understand the situation. Her mobility skills also worsened without her usual hydrotherapy sessions.

But during lockdown, Olivia joined the Sense Virtual Buddying scheme, which matches young disabled people to volunteers to meet online and share their interests. Olivia’s family were surprised at how well she adapted to the sessions, which have helped her to improve her concentration, and try new activities such as candle making, sensory experiences and dancing which has improved her mobility skills.

Olivia’s nomination for the Sense Awards follows last year’s win for her mum, Sam Rudge, who won the 2020 ‘Family Carer of the Year’ Award for her commitment to go above and beyond when caring full-time for Olivia. Sam Rudge said:

“We are so proud of how Olivia has coped during the whole pandemic, not understanding what is happening and why. She has struggled with every part of her normal routine, such as no school, no friends, no after-school or holiday activities.

"This upset us enormously and broke our hearts because there was nothing we could do to change anything. But now, things are slowly getting back to normal and we have our gorgeous, happy, caring little girl back, who is always smiling and giving us lots of kisses and cuddles, which really warms our hearts.”

Sense Chief Executive, Richard Kramer, added: “Olivia is an absolute star and it’s wonderful to see how she has overcome the challenges she has faced throughout the last 18 months.

"Sense Buddying provides a vital service, supporting young people with complex disabilities to flourish. We’re delighted to shortlist Olivia as our 2021 ‘Young Person of the Year’ and congratulate her on her achievements.”

The Sense Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of people with complex disabilities, as well as the staff, carers, family members, volunteers and fundraisers who support them. Winners will be announced on November 25.

For more information about the Sense Awards visit sense.org.uk.