The Care Employer Award
Winner: Harpreet, StrongLife Care
Harpreet shows he is truly passionate about his staff, residents and his business as well as the wider community. With his can-do attitude Harpreet was able to provide numerous examples of how he has supported others including employees and groups outside the business. He refers to his employees as “a Strong Life Family” and that truly shows in the support he provides, for example Supporting a staff member with university costs and help towards paying for a staff members funeral, naming a room in the care home she worked in after her in her memory.
Highly commended: Ward Green Lodge
Ward Green Lodge demonstrates true dedication and compassion in their care, treating their team as a family and placing them at the heart of everything they do. This strong sense of unity fosters an environment where both staff and residents feel supported, valued, and part of a caring community.
The Home Care Employer Award
Winner: Complete Care
It was very clear that this employer Leads from the front, is passionate and an inspiration to her staff. We both agreed if we worked as carers we would want to work for her. She truly has a Go getter attitude with an infectious personality.
Highly commended: Mike and Others, Continued Care
It was clear Continued care have a very tight nit and supportive team. We agreed that they went the extra mile in terms of the winter care packs, contributing towards MOTs and ensuring staff are safe and warm in winter. Even going as far as writing their own “Yorkshire slang” book for new staff members from overseas.
The Care Home Worker Award
Winner: Craig Lee, AmBience Healthcare Ltd
Craig Lee is an incredible person who consistently goes above and beyond. His dedication, kindness, and patience inspire everyone around him. He truly cares about others and always offers support, making a positive impact wherever he goes. Craig’s selflessness and commitment are deeply appreciated by all who know him.
Highly commended: Emma Pease, Exemplar Health Care
Emily, you’re an amazing lady! Be proud of who you are and stand firm in everything you do. Your strength, determination, and grace inspire those around you. Never doubt your power—you’re capable of achieving great things. Keep shining and embracing your incredible potential!
The Home Care Worker Award
Winner: Tony Linney, Making Space, Huddersfield Road
Tony has dedicated 25 years to supporting young people aged 18-25 with various challenges, helping them with education, employment, and integrating into the community. He collaborates with agencies and charities to find suitable placements, empowering individuals to choose their own paths. Tony promotes independence by supporting with food preparation, college, and jobs. Known for his empathy, strong communication skills, and genuine care, he builds trust and breaks down barriers. Committed to continual learning, Tony raises funds for essential services and goes the extra mile—literally—organising 1,000-mile charity walks and taking young people on enriching trips.
Highly commended: Edyta Kulig, Home care, Radfield Wakefield
A very caring lady with a a clear view of the importance of emotional connection and an in site into the importance of her own emotions and well as the clients .With an interest in learning and developing. To do this at a time she is living in a new country and is mastering a new language is a credit to her
The Care Home Newcomer Award
Winner: Sian Cox, Harrogate Neighbours, Greenfield Court
Someone Sian cares for says “There’s carers and then there’s carers, and you are amazing”. On hearing about her work you can’t help but agree with this sentiment. Sian is a great example of someone who truly cares, no ego, no fluff, just love and true care.
Highly commended: Emily Day, Exemplar Health Care, Lennon Grove
Emily is a young and energetic carer, with compassion at the heart of everything she does. She consistently puts the care of others first, bringing energy and dedication to every task. Her kind, thoughtful approach ensures that each person receives the attention, support, and respect they truly deserve.
The Home Care Newcomer Award
Winner: Pippa Rooks, Complete Care West Yorkshire, Somerset House
Pippa has an enthusiastic and contagious energy that she puts into all elements of her care. For someone new to care she has reacted like a sponge, absorbing all the knowledge she can to ensure she can provide the best possible care and support, and is achieving great outcomes.
Highly commended: Lola Rodgers, Each Other Care, The Abbeys Rawmarsh
Lola is an exceptional team player and is striving for excellence in her learning to best support the people at Each Other Care. Her enthusiasm and passion for cooking has enabled her to create bespoke and nutritious meals, which are celebrate by residents and staff alike.
The Care Home Registered Manager Award
Winner: Donna Lyons, We Care Group, Saltshouse Haven
Donna has a wealth of experience and managing 150 beds and 142 care staff. She turned a closing care home around getting a RI in 6 months and then a GOOD rating. She came back into care after retiring as she is passionate about what she does. She has been supporting her team and getting awards for the things that she is doing with all the activities.
Highly commended: Lucie Cerna, Anchor
A remarkable manager, making a real difference in the care home. Her dedication and passion for improving lives have positively impacted both residents and staff. Constantly striving for better, they aim to leave a lasting legacy of compassion, care, and positive change that will be felt for years to come.
The Home Care Registered Manager
Winner: Leonne Ridsdale, Milewood
“Leonne gets obvious joy from helping her team provide the quality of care that she passionately believes the people she supports deserve so they can shine and live their best lives. She’s very supportive; always willing to get stuck in, and constantly seeking feedback to constantly improve as a manager.”
Highly commended: Andrea Howland, Meridian Health & Social Care – Bradford
It’s clear that Andrea is an exceptional leader who has created strong bonds of trust and friendship with her team which provides the foundation that enables her team to provide excellent care.
The Dignity in Care Award
Winner: Kristina Carr, Continued Care, Harrogate
Kristina answered the questions exceptionally well, articulating her responses with clarity and demonstrating a strong commitment to upholding dignity in care. Her thoughtful and evidence-based examples effectively showcased her dedication to providing compassionate, respectful care, reflecting her understanding of the principles essential to maintaining dignity in all aspects of service.
Highly commended: Kathryn Lincoln, We Care Group, Sowerby House
Kathryn answered her questions amazingly well, clearly demonstrating her deep understanding of care and her unwavering compassion. Her responses reflected her commitment to providing the highest quality support, showcasing her dedication to both the well-being of others and her passion for making a positive impact in their lives
The Dementia Carer Award
Winner: Sara Blay Robbins, Exemplar Health Care – Fairburn Mews
She takes a proactive approach to maintaining respectful and high-quality care practices. Clearly aware of how to implement these practices for the benefit of her clients, she is both forward-thinking and passionate. Her dedication ensures that every decision prioritizes the well-being and growth of those under her care.
Highly commended: Amy Cotton, We Care Group – Saltshouse Haven
The unit manager, with five years of experience, has a genuine passion for caring, inspired by her mother’s work. She uses conversation, tasks, and reassurance to connect with residents. Her calm, personal approach helps defuse challenging situations, and she’s introduced a pain-check tool, making a real difference for non-verbal residents.
The Ancillary Worker Award
Winner: Andrea Cavanagh, Danforth Care Homes, Sid Bailey Care Home
Since joining in February 2023, they’ve built strong relationships with residents and families, going above and beyond to support independence, especially for those with dementia. Their passion for care is evident, staying late, volunteering on days off, and ensuring safety. They’ve grown alongside the home, always putting others first.
Highly commended: Mike Herrington, Continued-Care, Harrogate and Ripon Branch
They are making a real difference in the lives of both care staff and service users, working tirelessly to promote well-being. Their dedication to improving care standards, fostering positive relationships, and supporting the team has created a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive.
The Care Home Activity Organiser Award
Winner: Tammy Taylor, Exemplar Health Care Lonnen Grove
Tammy is a breath of professional fresh air . She is compassionate and caring and a talented people person. She has shaped a role that is very new to her and given it heart and soul whilst ensuring it is based on evidence based good practice. She I am sure is an asset and should be extremely proud of her achievements.
Highly commended: Lindsay Brooksbank, Strong Life Care – ThornHill House
A truly forward thinking care home complimented by a inspiring inspired activity worker. Keeping up with the changing face of care and the variety of person-centred needs, doing this with flare and imagination. An asset to the home that runs as a family
The Home Care Co-ordinator Award
Winner: Clare Walker, Radfield Home Care Wakefield and Huddersfield
Clare is an excellent winner! Clare was full of confidence, passion and ambition within her role, and vision for the future, Clare also demonstrated her determination when dealing with challenges within the sector. Clare was also able to share best practices and innovative initiatives within her Teams. Clare is now just embarking on her level 5 qualification, congratulations Clare.
Highly commended: Lyndsey Hanley, Blossom Home Care Lincolnshire
Lyndsey is a truly wonderful Home Care Coordinator, consistently bringing creative and thoughtful solutions to every challenge. Her innovative approach, coupled with her dedication and empathy, ensures that each client receives the best possible care. Lyndsey’s problem-solving skills and passion make her an invaluable asset to the team.
The Care Home Chef Award
Winner: Mark Colley, Each Other Care, Abbeys
Mark started working in care home kitchens at 16, he displayed a real passion for providing the best meals for the residents and cares deeply about the role
Highly commended: Donna Rushforth, Strong Life Care, Highstone Mews
Donna goes above and beyond for the residents, showing incredible passion for the meals she prepares. She recently recreated a Christmas Day meal for a resident in end-of-life care, ensuring they experienced joy and comfort. Her dedication and compassion make a profound impact on the residents she serves
The Care Home Team Award
Winner: The Old Rectory Nursing Home Doncaster
A team that are delivering excellence as demonstrated by feedback from key stakeholders and from people who use their services. A significant emphasis on increasing knowledge to optimise their service alongside a continuous improvement mindset. A stable team working in a high-pressure environment. Much to commend
Highly commended: Strong Life Care, Thornhill House
A team that truly live the ethos of carer centred care, valuing diversity in their team in order to fully understand the needs of their residents. A team that went the extra mile and demonstrated innovation and creativity alongside a passion in learning from others. The team are multi skilled and multi-talented.
The Home Care Team Award
Winner: The Whole Team, AmBience Healthcare Ltd
A truly dedicated team, always putting people first at the heart of everything they do. Their unwavering commitment to care ensures that each individual’s needs are met with compassion and respect. They work together seamlessly, creating a supportive, nurturing environment where every person feels valued and cared for.
Highly commended: Bluebird Care
Bluebird Care is an inspirational team, consistently demonstrating an amazing attitude towards care. Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion shine through in every aspect of their work. By prioritising the well-being of those they support, they create a positive, nurturing environment where clients feel valued, respected, and truly cared for.
The Care Innovator Award
Winner: Learning Disability Super League, RFL Super League and Community Integrated Care
A blue-sky innovation idea that has been brought to reality. Outstanding contribution from those involved to create and drive forward this innovation. Continued success of those like Oliver and Matt who have benefited from the opportunity that now are part of the employed team that continue to advocate for people with learning disabilities. Truely life changing for all those involved. A clearly inspiring innovation. We wish you all the success for the future.
Highly commended: Hannah Blundell, Exemplar Health Care
Hannah it was clear to see your passion and the impact you have made in this new role. You are innovative as a critical supportive friend of those in the company. Hannah positively turns up with a can do attitude which is infectious. We thought you were brilliant.
The Frontline Leader Award
Winner: Chloe Ross, Meridian Health & Social Care, Wakefield
Chloe is an amazing and compassionate carer, consistently going above and beyond to support those in her care. Her dedication, kindness, and empathy inspire others around her. Chloe not only provides excellent care but also encourages and mentors fellow carers, helping them grow and thrive in their roles.
Highly commended: Chloe Jackson, Involve Care & Support, Sandal/ Agbrigg
Chloe is a wonderful and patient person who always puts the care of others first. Her kindness, understanding, and dedication create a comforting environment for those she supports. Chloe’s calm approach and genuine compassion make a lasting impact, ensuring every individual receives the highest level of care and attention.
The Care Assessor Award
Winner: Nicola Noble, Continue-Care
Nicola is the assessment queen! A consummate professional, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role. Above all, her true passion lies in caring for people. Her dedication and expertise make her an invaluable asset, always striving to provide the best possible care for everyone she supports.
Highly commended: Wendy Coates, Radfield Home Care Wakefield and Huddersfield
As a Field Care Supervisor at Radfield Homecare, she demonstrates exceptional dedication to client-centered care. She leads with passion, ensuring each consultation is thorough and personalized, always prioritizing the client’s needs. Her proactive approach, strong teamwork, and commitment to high standards have fostered excellent relationships, with clients becoming fully engaged in care.
The Three Rs Award
Winner: Complete Care West Yorkshire Ltd
The whole team at Complete Care West Yorkshire Ltd are extremely passionate about the people they employ and support. There is a genuine love for the job from them all and they celebrate the individuality and strengths of every person they employ. Amazing team!
Highly commended: Amy Shearsmith, Blossom Home Care, Beverley
Amy is so passionate and dedicated to providing the best care to her service users, she knows that to do this she has to take good care of the people she employs. Amy goes above and beyond to support her team and is a credit to the care industry!
The Workforce Development Award
Winner: Dean Bristow, Danforth Care Homes
Dean has shown true dedication to the care sector, throughout his entire interview his passion for developing the training to support his team shone through. He was open and honest about some challenges he had but showed a clear way to navigate around these. He is definitely someone I would love to have deliver training, friendly, approachable and experienced.
Highly commended: Joseph Holderness, Camphill Wakefield
Joseph developed his own skills to avoid redundancy, his ideas brought an amazing new aspect to the service he works. His new scheme for Animal support has allowed his managers and others amongst his team to conquer fears they have with animals and upskill them in modern way of providing emotional care and support.
The Putting People First Award
Winner: Patrick Powell, Exemplar Health Care, Ravensdale
Patrick wanted to organise a trip to the coast, but the taxis were unable to facilitate. The home thought there was no solution, but Patrick worked to find one. He sourced a minibus which they were able to fund from their summer fare to take the service users for a trip to the coast.
Highly commended: Chloe Yates, Strong Life Care, EARLS LODGE
Chloe excels at involving residents in key decisions, from paint colours to menus during meetings. Her advanced care planning allowed a client to hold their funeral in the care home car park, demonstrating her commitment to honouring individual wishes and dignity.
The Palliative Carer Award
Winner: Jayne Ottewell & Claire Bell, Exemplar Health Care – Deamevale
The team at Deamevale demonstrated a wealth of knowledge in providing excellent person-centred care. They excel in delivering individualised support while working closely with external partners, families, and friends. Their commitment to collaboration ensures that each resident’s unique needs are met with compassion and professionalism.
Highly commended: Ruth Woodhouse, Ward Green Lodge
Ruth’s compassion and dedication to care shine through powerfully in everything she does. Her unwavering commitment to the well-being of those she supports is evident in her thoughtful approach, always going above and beyond. Ruth’s kindness and empathy create a positive, lasting impact on both residents and colleagues alike.
The Social Care Nurse Award
Winner: James MacDonald, Exemplar Health Care, Quarryfields
James was a clear winner, his wealth and commitment over the years within his Nursing career is amazing, the passion and dedication towards seeing the person first and meeting people’s social needs demonstrated that James holistic approach seeing the whole person. James demonstrated the value of maintaining his own professional development over the years by obtaining his master’s degree. Having a long career in Nursing James entering Nursing back in 1989 with pride and passion and it was eident to see and feel in 2024 James still has the same love and passion for his job. An excellent winner!
Highly commended: Tees esk and Wear Valley NHS Foundation trust, Enhancing Physical Health Team- Community Learning Disability care
The Enhancing Physical Care team has shown immense dedication, care, and compassion in their work. Their commitment to providing the highest level of physical care ensures that each individual receives personalised attention, promoting well-being and comfort. Their passion for improving lives is evident in every aspect of their approach.
The Housing with Care Award
Winner: Kerry Sharpe, Horizon Care
Kerry has demonstrated remarkable dedication to care and housing, going above and beyond to support those in greatest need. Her commitment to improving lives is evident in her tireless work, ensuring vulnerable individuals receive the care and accommodation they require. Kerry’s compassion and determination make a profound impact every day.
Highly commended: Laura Cross, Affinity
Laura has shown extraordinary compassion, consistently going above and beyond to support those who need it most. Her unwavering dedication and kindness create a safe, caring environment for those she serves. Laura’s ability to listen, empathise, and provide support makes a lasting, positive impact on everyone she encounters.
The Social Care Co-Production Award
Winner: We’re On The Same Team, The RFL & Community Integrated Care
This incredible social care charity has made a profound impact on the lives of people with learning disabilities. By linking with the Rugby Super League, it provides life-changing opportunities for participants to play at major stadiums. Their inclusive, non-competitive sports programme fosters social inclusion, education, and employment, transforming lives.
Highly commended: Ward Green Lodge
Ward Green Lodge has demonstrated exceptional compassion, consistently providing the highest levels of care. Their dedication to supporting residents is evident in every aspect of their service, ensuring individual needs are met with kindness and professionalism. The team’s commitment to excellence creates a nurturing and supportive environment for all.
The Outstanding Contribution to Social Care Award
Winner: Jill Wiseman, Anchor
Jill turned a whole service around by involving staff in what needed to change. EG chef and kitchen staff deciding how to get people out of their rooms and enjoying meals at the table again. A great story to learn from about how to make good things happen and inclusivity.
Highly commended: Denise McEvoy, Harrogate Neighbours
Denise has demonstrated exceptional vision and leadership in recognising the potential of a 16-year-old kitchen assistant. Spotting her natural ability to connect with residents, Denise empowered and encouraged her to transition into a care role. This support led to her becoming a team leader, deputy, and now a registered manager.
