The Care Home Employer Award
Winner: Autism Together
This company’s dedication to its staff shines through in the thorough training, 24/7 GP access for health support, and biannual cash rewards. By prioritising both physical and mental well-being, they create a motivated team well-prepared to provide exceptional care to clients, reflecting genuine respect and support for their employees.
Highly commended: Active Pathways
I admire how consistently they involve staff in company-wide consultations, ensuring everyone has a voice and sense of belonging. Their commitment to trialing new technology for improved care shows a dedication to continuous advancement. Despite rapid growth, they’ve maintained high standards in both care quality and staff support, proving their model’s effectiveness. They also empower management with internal audits to confidently showcase their exceptional work to the CQC.
The Home Care Employer Award
Winner: Moral Care
Rebecca is a multi-nominated social care entrepreneur and business owner, recognised by the GBCA, based in Morecambe. Guided by her mantra to “do things right,” Rebecca infuses her values into every aspect of Moral Care, the organisation she leads. Her commitment to excellence shines through in the exceptional service her dedicated and enthusiastic team delivers every day. Rebecca is reshaping the future of social care leadership, setting a new standard for quality and integrity in the field
Highly commended: Community Integrated Care
Bryony and Amanda lead a company celebrated for its outstanding range of benefits and support services designed for their staff. The judges were deeply impressed by their leadership in care, as well as their commitment to pioneering progressive employment practices, such as the 4-day work week. Bryony and Amanda are truly setting a new standard for forward-thinking leadership in the industry.
The Care Home Worker Award
Winner: Jacqui Collier, Longridge Hall Sandstone Care Group
Jacqui consistently goes above and beyond in her role, meeting every resident’s needs with unwavering care and compassion. With over a decade in the field, I’ve never seen such a selfless individual. Jacqui’s dedication to her residents and colleagues is inspiring, making her truly deserving of this award.
The Home Care Worker Award
Winner: Declan Radcliffe, Delta Care LTD
Declan’s commitment to collaborating with strategic partners to enhance the quality of life for service users has made a profound impact—not only on the individuals themselves but also on their families. It was inspiring to witness such passion and determination from Declan. Keep achieving these remarkable goals with service users!
Highly commended: Mary Prentice, Mersey Care
Mary is an inspiring leader with a strong HR background whose adaptability and expertise in care have truly stood out. She now plays a key role in upskilling new staff, ensuring they deliver the exceptional care that service users deserve. Her contributions, combined with training from Mersey Care, have had a remarkable impact on new team members.
The Care Home Newcomer Award
Winner: Christopher Hill, Senior Moments Care LLP
Chris radiated kindness from the moment we met. His warmth, care, and eagerness to learn make him invaluable to his team. His commitment to growth is evident in his decision to start an apprenticeship, which will further enhance his skills. Without a doubt, he has a bright future ahead.
Highly commended: Rebbecca Clarke, Belong
Rebecca is compassionate, kind, and eager to learn, demonstrating exceptional leadership potential. She truly embodies the company’s values, and I have no doubt she will grow into an outstanding leader. Her warmth and dedication shone through—keep up the great work, Rebecca, and you’ll go far!
The Home Care Newcomer Award
Winner: Daryhl Lewis, Making Space
Daryhl’s innovative, personalised approach empowers parents and carers, creating a positive ripple of change. With an early year’s background, she equips families with self-help tools and actively involves them in shaping the “Making Space” service, ensuring their voices drive continuous improvement for the best possible outcomes.
Highly commended: Rahima Patel, Alternative Futures Group
Rahima’s passion for this sector is unmistakable. She breaks down barriers, builds trust, and empowers those she supports toward independence. A true team player, she values collaboration and readily praises her colleagues’ skills, creating a positive environment that drives successful outcomes for everyone involved.
The Care Home Registered Manager Award
Winner: Paul Williams, Bebington Care home
A young LGBTQ care home manager has transformed the workplace by fostering inclusivity and acceptance, turning a previously negative culture into a supportive, positive environment. His impactful leadership has brought meaningful improvements that are widely recognised and appreciated by both staff and residents.
Highly commended: Samantha Waite, Serencroft
A true warrior in the care industry, this care home manager goes above and beyond daily, working tirelessly with compassion and empathy. Her dedication is unparalleled—whether she’s supporting residents or painting walls to improve the home. Leading by example, she makes a lasting impact on everyone around her.
The Home Care Registered Manager
Winner: Leoni Rainford, Cavalry Healthcare
A skilled professional with a deep understanding of the diverse needs of their client group, this candidate exemplifies the systems and practices required for high-quality, inclusive care. Their commitment to fostering a safe, supportive culture and leading by example is truly inspiring and impactful.
Highly commended: Vicky Yates, Willowbrook Homecare
Energetic and positive, she demonstrates a strong commitment to staff development and the delivery of high-quality care. Her resilience and dedication to enhancing the team’s professional growth are evident. Her passion for providing exceptional support, especially in guiding an individual through a mental health crisis, is truly inspiring.
The Dignity in Care Award
Winner: Laura Cooper, Belong at Home
Laura is a compassionate and enthusiastic carer who consistently goes above and beyond for her residents. She creates personalised activities, listens attentively to their needs, and fosters a warm environment where everyone feels valued. Her positive attitude and unwavering dedication make a significant difference in the lives of those she cares for.
Highly commended: Charlotte Cole, We Care Group
Charlotte, as Quality Manager, promotes dignity and independence by coaching and empowering staff to focus on resident choice and dignity. With her nursing background and personal experiences, she encourages moving away from task-focused care. Charlotte drives initiatives like digital care planning, pain detection, and person-centered language, improving residents’ lives.
The Dementia Carer Award
Winner: Simon Doherty, RMBI Care co
During our discussion, Simon demonstrated the essential values and skills required in this area of care. He handled challenging situations with empathy and kindness, creatively involving both service users and their families. A true visionary, Simon exemplifies professionalism in dementia care delivery, making a significant impact on those he serves.
Highly commended: Kim Sproston, Aceso Home Care
Kim’s lived experience with a family member has given her a profound understanding of the needs of service users. She began her caregiving journey at an early age, emphasising the importance of treating individuals with respect and seeing the person beyond their illness. For Kim, caring is incredibly rewarding, and she believes that true devotion and passion are essential for this profession.
The Ancillary Worker Award
Winner: Jackie Baines, Anchor
With 20 years at Anchor, Jackie exemplifies the company’s values every day, consistently going above and beyond in every role she’s held—from housekeeping to team leader and now as an administrator. Her dedication, efficiency, and compassion shone through. Jackie, your commitment, organisation, and passion is amazing.
Highly commended: David Sears, Sandstone Care
Dave approaches his work with exceptional pride, organisation, and anticipation. His sense of humour, teamwork, and seamless independence were amazing His proactive problem-solving allows Dave to find solutions himself rather than relying on outside help. Dave is truly an asset to Sandstone Care, and an outstanding employee.
The Care Home Activity Organiser Award
Winner: Shirleyann Tingey, Creative Support
Shirleyann is a dedicated carer who has been in her role since she was just 16. She has found her true calling in supporting and driving positive change within the care community. Her passion for her work is evident, and her creativity in providing care is truly exceptional. With a deep commitment to people, she brings her entire self to everything she does.
Highly commended: Jenny Forest, Parklane Healthcare
It is abundantly clear that Jenny is passionate about her work. Her impact on the community extends far beyond her contributions to the centre; she plays a vital role in fostering connections that enrich the lives of those around her. Jenny is dedicated to creating cherished memories for her “second family,” ensuring that they can live their lives to the fullest and enjoy every moment.
The Home Care Co-ordinator Award
Winner: Carol Smith, Alternative Futures Group
Carol exudes confidence and demonstrates a wealth of experience in her role. She skillfully leverages her expertise to achieve exceptional results for her clients. Deserving winner, keep up the brilliant work.
Highly commended: Katie Pennington, Westmorland Homecare
She is deeply passionate about her role and consistently offers exceptional support to both her team and clients. Her outstanding leadership at every level creates a positive impact on everyone who knows and works with her.
The Care Home Chef Award
Winner: Sarah Davis, Advinia
For Sarah, nothing brings greater satisfaction than receiving positive feedback from the residents. Their appreciation fuels her passion and commitment, affirming the impact of her work. Each compliment serves as a reminder of the meaningful connections she fosters and the difference she makes in their lives every day.
Highly commended: Nick Doherty, Sandstone Care Group
Nick is extremely passionate about his job and dedicates himself wholeheartedly to ensuring the well-being of the residents. His unwavering commitment drives him to go above and beyond, creating a supportive and nurturing environment.
The Care Home Team Award
Winner: Nina Clegg and Team, Half Acre House Residential Care Home
The Half Acre team excels in compassionate, person-centred care. Staff encourage active, fulfilling lives for residents, with personalised plans and open communication fostering trust and growth. A supportive buddy system and inspiring activities program ensure high standards and resident satisfaction. Keep up the hard work.
Highly commended: Nursing team, Belong Atherton
The team’s cohesive, responsive approach fosters an environment where residents feel valued and respected shone through. Their commitment to mentorship and support for student nurses also shapes the future of nursing, ensuring the next generation is equipped with the skills and compassion needed to excel. Teamwork was so evident, well done.
The Home Care Team Award
Winner: Church St, CareTech
The insights shared by Zara and Rachel played a pivotal role in my decision to award this home the Winner’s Award. It was heartwarming to hear them speak so fondly about the dedicated team that cares for them. Their appreciation truly highlights the exceptional environment created here.
Highly commended: Team, Helping Hands Wigan
The two ladies were truly inspiring, and the story of the gentleman who was given just six months to live was deeply moving. Three years later, he is still enjoying Mamma Mia and singing along, a testament to the enduring spirit of hope and joy.
The Care Innovator Award
Winner: Chris Clarke, Cherished Care Services
Chris, a tech entrepreneur, is revolutionising Health and Social Care with his innovative solutions. His “Fall” App reduces hospital admissions for elderly patients, while his user-friendly chatbot allows caregivers to access policy information quickly. Chris’s impactful work demonstrates a commitment to enhancing care for those in need.
Highly commended: Syd Coombes, Active Pathways
Syd leads a thriving group of companies that delivers exceptional mental health rehabilitation and learning disability support throughout Yorkshire and Lancashire. As a serial entrepreneur and innovative thinker, he is dedicated to breaking down barriers to enhance clinical support for patients in their own homes, reducing hospital admissions and alleviating pressure on the NHS.
The Frontline Leader Award
Winner: Ellie Murphy, Bright Futures
Ellie is not just an exceptional frontline leader; she is a true rising star in her field. Her passionate discourse about the impactful work she has accomplished in her service left a lasting impression. I was particularly moved by the unwavering dedication and compassion she demonstrates toward those she supports. The individuals in her care are in excellent hands.
Highly commended: Chloe Cadman, Making Space
Chloe possesses a warm and approachable personality that makes her an invaluable asset to her team. She has effectively guided her staff through significant changes, demonstrating exceptional support and leadership. Her commitment to fostering professional development among her team members truly sets her apart and contributes to their success.
The Care Assessor Award
Winner: Lyn Fagan, Advinia
Lyn shared an inspiring story about four individuals in her care who had very limited mobility. While occupational therapists and other medical staff had written them off, Lyn refused to give up on them. Through her compassion, motivation, love, patience, and kindness, she encouraged them to take small steps every day. Remarkably, within six months, they began to walk again, all thanks to Lyn’s unwavering determination and commitment to their progress.
Highly commended: Admissions Team, Autism Together
Collette proudly leads a welcoming team that transformed the life of a young woman who had isolated herself for years due to severe OCD. Through persistent efforts and positive interactions, they encouraged her to engage with the world again, ultimately helping her find joy in swimming, dancing, and working at a kiosk. Keep working hard.
The Three Rs Award
Winner: Team, Active Pathways Ltd
Active Pathways prioritises mental health by providing essential support and focusing on career progression through a values-based approach. We conduct staff training, promote inclusion in recruitment, and gather feedback through biannual surveys. Our champion model features mentoring, recognition programs, and celebrations, enhancing employee well-being and fostering a supportive workplace culture.
Highly commended: Rhianna Wilson, Westmorland Homecare
Rihanna is a passionate recruitment coordinator committed to mental health and career advancement. She champions a values-driven approach, offering comprehensive training and robust support for staff development. By promoting inclusion and actively soliciting feedback, she cultivates a positive work environment with low sickness rates and recognises employee achievements through meaningful rewards and appreciation.
The Workforce Development Award
Winner: Natalie Marie Johnson, Exceptional Care
Natalie is a guiding light in social care, exemplifying the essence of great leadership through her visibility and engagement in services. She recognises that developing exemplary practices comes from being present and connected. Drawing from her own experiences, she embraces the idea that mistakes are opportunities for growth, using them to uplift others and foster a culture of learning.
Highly commended: Ashleigh Bird, Westmoreland Care
Although new to the field of social care, Ashleigh approaches her role as a coach and mentor with deep dedication, employing thoughtful and creative strategies to maximise engagement. She fully understands the profound impact a great coach or mentor can have, knowing it can be the key to someone’s success and growth in their role.
The Putting People First Award
Winner: Ali Tajizadegan, Exemplar Health Care
Ali’s impact at Ribble View is profound. For a resident with a spinal injury, Ali’s personalised care, including hydrotherapy and strength training, has led to remarkable progress, moving family members to tears. Known for his infectious positivity, Ali goes above and beyond, inspiring both service users and staff daily. Amazing work!
Highly commended: Mel Dean, Bright Futures
Committed to fostering choice and decision-making, ensuring individuals have control over their lives. This approach promotes autonomy, and it is clear that Mel places the people she supports at the heart of everything she does. Through a person-centered, co-production model, she empowers adults to make their own choices, while nurturing their unique interests and aspirations.
The Palliative Carer Award
Winner: Sarah Incledon-Blevin, Parkhaven Trust
Sarah consistently goes above and beyond in her role, exemplifying the true essence of compassionate care. With a person-centred approach, she ensures that every individual—regardless of their stage in life—feels genuinely valued, heard, and respected. Sarah also extends her support to families, fostering an environment of care, empathy, and understanding during the most challenging times. Her dedication and commitment set a remarkable standard of excellence in palliative care, serving as a shining example of the highest level of compassion and professionalism.
The Social Care Nurse Award
Winner: Wendy Perkins, Komplex Care
Wendy is the epitome of professionalism, possessing all the essential qualities that nurses need, especially in these challenging times, while consistently delivering safe and effective care to service users. I was thoroughly impressed by her experience, skills, and unwavering dedication to her role. She plays a vital part in supporting the community, expertly managing care, and providing staff with the knowledge and guidance they need to excel in their roles. Wendy takes great pride in being the “go-to” person for her team, confidently ensuring they have the support and expertise required for success.
Highly commended: Chris Ravenscroft, Exemplar Care
Chris demonstrated an exceptional depth of knowledge and the necessary skills to uphold the core principles of nursing care. He consistently prioritised safeguarding, risk prevention, and dedication to both family and staff management in all aspects of care delivery. Additionally, Chris excelled in managing staff training and development, ensuring that his team was well-equipped and supported in their roles. His comprehensive approach to leadership and care sets a high standard of professionalism.
The Housing with Care Award
Winner: Dawn Thornber and Team, Adullam Homes
Dawn and team are worthy of winning the Housing Care Award for their exceptional dedication to providing high-quality, person-centred care in a safe, vibrant atmosphere. Their commitment to enhancing residents’ quality of life through compassionate care, innovative practices, and strong engagement sets them apart as an outstanding care provider
Highly commended: Michelle Dooley, Alternative Futures Group
Michelle Dooley, a Liverpool-based Team Leader with 41 years of experience in social care, has profoundly transformed the life of Alex, a young man with cerebral palsy and autism. Through personalized support and advocacy, she enabled Alex to transition from meal supplements to a balanced diet, boosted his community involvement, and helped him build meaningful social connections. Well done.
The Co-Production Award
Winner: Open Door Team, Making Space
Open Door Team exemplifies co-production with every staff member using their own experiences of mental health crises to provide deeply empathetic support. This unique, person-centred approach, paired with professional skills and teamwork, consistently exceeds targets while ensuring no one is left behind.
The Unpaid Carer Award
Winner: Cavell Meakin, Belong Ltd
Cavell, a retired nurse, brings warmth and dedication as a volunteer, running groups and supporting community efforts through Belong. She leads knitting projects for local hospitals, homeless shelters, and staff, embodying true selflessness.
The Outstanding Contribution to Social Care Award
Winner: Pat and Jeff Nelson, United Response
Wow! Pat and Jeff Nelson have shown unwavering dedication and resilience since 1975, challenging adversity and changing the minds of many. They taught their children to challenge societal norms, leading the way in promoting inclusion and respect long before it was widely accepted. Their impact has been profound and inspiring. It was a pleasure speaking to them.
