The Care Home Employer Award
Broadening Choices for Older People
BCOP Charity demonstrates exceptional commitment to its staff by prioritising well-being, professional development, and inclusion. Through training, fairness, and support, employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered to deliver outstanding care every day. This culture of respect and growth creates a positive, inspiring workplace energy that’s truly palpable.
Ashberry Healthcare Ltd
Ashberry Healthcare shows exceptional dedication to its staff through long service recognition, comprehensive onboarding, and values-driven leadership. The organisation leads with compassion, investing in staff development and retention. Visible, engaged leadership fosters pride, connection, and a supportive culture where every team member feels valued and motivated to deliver outstanding care.
The Home Care Employer Award
Caremark Solihull
Caremark demonstrates strong community impact by educating and advocating for the sector, supporting recruitment, and fostering a sense of belonging for teams and clients. Notable achievements include a successful Age UK partnership, charity fundraising, Make-A-Wish initiatives, and volunteer work. They champion staff, embrace feedback, and creates a welcoming, family-like environment.
JAM Care
James is passionate about his team, he prioritises staff wellbeing through competitive remuneration, extra benefits, and active advocacy. He values feedback, implementing changes from surveys, and fosters community via innovative weekly blogs and informal WhatsApp updates. His leadership also demonstrates strong RAF recruitment expertise, reinforcing both engagement and a supportive, connected workplace culture.
The Care Home Worker Award
Giselle Soria,Welford Health Care
Giselle has a bright, caring, and joyful nature that uplifts everyone around her. Her positivity is contagious—she navigates challenges with a smile and a song, inspiring others and ensuring everyone feels supported and enjoys their day.
Anthony Kyei-Yamoah,Majestic Luxury Care Homes
Care-focused and naturally cheerful, Anthony consistently gives his best, ensuring every resident benefits from his positive, respectful, and attentive approach. It was lovely to speak to him and hear about his amazing work.
The Home Care Worker Award
Natasha Johnson, Radfield Home Care (Shrewsbury & Oswestry)
Natasha is an exceptional carer whose dedication, professionalism, and compassion set her apart. She consistently goes above and beyond to support those in her care, demonstrating remarkable skill and empathy in every situation. Her organisation is truly fortunate to have her, and they can be immensely proud of the positive impact she makes daily.
Jurgita Misiute, JAM Care
Jurgita’s dedication and expertise are truly exceptional. After a serious accident, her quick thinking and advanced skills saved her client’s life. Humble yet highly knowledgeable, she embodies a level of mastery rarely found in a typical home.
The Care Home Newcomer Award
Jade Taylor, Lisieux Trust
Since joining Lisieux House, Jade has shown remarkable passion and commitment. Transitioning from a prison officer to a senior care role, she demonstrates resilience, leadership, and dedication. Her compassionate approach, support for residents, eagerness to learn, and teamwork highlight her potential for future management and lasting impact in care.
Isobel Gamble, Heritage Manor
Issy is dedicated to expanding her skills in a new environment. Naturally compassionate and wise beyond her years, she personalises every interaction, works tirelessly to support others, and brings unwavering enthusiasm, professionalism, and genuine kindness to all she does.
The Home Care Newcomer Award
Jane Whitehouse, Bluebird Care Bromsgrove and Redditch
In just six months, Jane has transformed lives with her warmth, humility, and humanity — from restoring a gentleman’s dignity by helping him wash his hands for the first time in half a year, to bringing calm, laughter, and purpose into every home she visits. Her empathy, teamwork, and belief that every small act of kindness matters make her an exceptional ambassador for care.
Collins Somuah, Lifeways
In just three months, Collins has demonstrated exceptional empathy, courage, and dedication — building trust with a non-verbal resident on his very first day and remaining calm under pressure to protect a colleague. His actions show he was truly born to care and lead by example. Well done!
The Care Home Registered Manager Award
Naomi Jones, Exemplar Healthcare
Naomi is an award-winning Registered Manager who has transformed their service into a vibrant, family-centred home. Through innovation, compassion, and dedication, they inspire staff via mentoring and professional development while enhancing residents’ lives with exceptional care and meaningful opportunities. Naomi’s fundraising achievements and visionary leadership set a new standard of excellence.
Leslie Latchman, Radnor House
Les has dedicated 40 years to the care sector, consistently prioritising residents above all else. His genuine compassion and unwavering commitment reflect his passion for the industry. Equally focused on nurturing new talent and future leaders, he combines vast experience with vision, inspiring his team while keeping residents at the heart of everything he does.
The Home Care Registered Manager Award
Julie Thomas, Calvery Health Care
I could barely keep up with all the incredible stories Julie wanted to share! Her passion was truly infectious. Her consistent approach and tireless advocacy for her service users in the community were inspiring, as she worked relentlessly to challenge misconceptions and break down prejudices. Amazing work.
Vanessa Turner, McCarthy Stone
Vanessa’s account of how she and her team came together to support a service user with no living family—ensuring he could spend his final days at home with compassionate, round-the-clock care—was deeply moving. Her passion for developing the service and honouring each client’s needs and wishes shone throughout our conversation. It was a pleasure speaking with you.
The Dignity in Care Award
Jacqui Williams, Anchor
Recognised for her outstanding contribution to dignity in care, she consistently promotes person-centred support, empowers those she assists, and ensures individuals have meaningful choice in their lives. Her dedication fosters independence, respect, and wellbeing, reflecting a compassionate approach that truly enhances the lives of the people she supports every day.
Heidi Page, Dignus Group
For Heidi’s unwavering dedication to providing tailored support and preserving dignity for vulnerable adults with challenging behaviours, and for her hands-on commitment to guiding best practice in the most demanding environments, ensuring compassionate, high-quality care even in the most difficult circumstances.
The Dementia Carer Award
Cindy Neale,Home Instead
Cindy brings warmth, creativity, and empathy to everything she does. Through music, memory, and conversation, she transforms lives. Her violin rekindling joy and connection for people with dementia. From personalised “memory lane” trips to founding dementia cafés, Cindy embodies true person-centred care. With heart and imagination, she inspires all. Congratulations!
Katy Thompson,Bluebird Care Bromsgrove and Redditch
Katy leads with empathy, creativity, and a genuine heart. With over a decade of experience, she brings training to life through practical, person-centred care—whether crafting homemade dementia suits or creating personalised playlists. Her passion for connection, learning, and dignity shines through, inspiring colleagues and families alike. A truly fantastic role model!
The Ancillary Worker Award
Andy Fletcher, Bond Care
Andy may call himself a maintenance man, but he is so much more. From decorating and gardening to driving residents to events, he tirelessly enriches their lives. His selfless acts, like posting hundreds of letters for a resident with Parkinson’s at his own expense, bring immeasurable joy. It was lovely speaking to Andy.
Denise Sterling, Ashberry Healthcare ltd
Denise is truly remarkable. For 13 years, she’s been the heart of Holmer Court, combining warmth, skill, and courage. From fixing repairs to comforting residents, nothing is too much. She even saved a citizen’s life with CPR—an extraordinary act of bravery that defines her exceptional care.
The Care Home Activities Organiser Award
Debbie Rees, Welford Healthcare
It is evident that Debbie demonstrates exceptional passion and commitment to her role. Her dedication to person-centred care ensures that everyone’s needs and interests are prioritised. Through daily activities and interactions, she contributes to a vibrant, supportive community, consistently enriching the lives of those they support.
Gail White, Heritage Manor Ltd
As runner-up, Gail’s passion, energy, and thoughtful approach to enhancing residents’ lives are clear. Her commitment to creating meaningful experiences and uplifting spirits daily demonstrates exceptional dedication.
The Home Care Coordinator Award
Nikki Martin, Macc Care Group
Nikki has demonstrated outstanding leadership, inspiring her team while exemplifying a deep commitment to person-centred care. Her tireless dedication ensures that individuals receive compassionate, high-quality care every day. Passionate about continuous learning, she finds joy in caring for residents, delighting in their happiness and bringing smiles to their lives.
Francis Uwagboe,Komplex Community
Francis takes great pride in truly understanding each member of his staff, recognising their individual strengths, skills, and personalities. By carefully matching them to the specific needs of clients, he ensures that every person receives the highest standard of care possible. His thoughtful, personalised approach fosters both staff confidence and client wellbeing, creating a harmonious and effective care environment.
The Care Home Cook/Chef Awards
Claire Kemp,Superior Care (Midlands) Ltd
Claire is a passionate, dedicated, and highly skilled professional who ensures that everyone she cares for receives nutritious and balanced meals. She has expertly adapted her culinary knowledge to meet the diverse dietary requirements of all residents, demonstrating both flexibility and a deep commitment to their health and wellbeing.
Anas Al Saadi,Macc Care
Anas is deeply passionate about his role, consistently striving to deliver service of the highest quality. His extensive experience is evident in the exceptional standard of the food he prepares, reflecting both skill and dedication to providing an outstanding culinary experience.
The Care Home Team Award
The Village Nurse Team,Belong
The team’s support for each other and focus on residents’ needs is evident. They tailor care to individuals, embrace holistic, person-centred approaches, and provide compassionate end-of-life support for residents and families. Their passion, collaboration, and dedication inspire confidence, making it clear they go above and beyond in everything they do.
Vesey Road staff team,Lisieux Trust Ltd
Their service users even joined the call, highlighting the impact of their work. They have achieved a remarkable turnaround, taking a service previously in special measures under the former provider to an overall “Good” in the latest inspection. They emphasised their focus on positive behaviour strategies and extensive work promoting gender awareness and diversity.
The Home Care Team Award
Woodbury View Team Lifeways
I am proud to recognise the Woodbury View Team at Lifeways for the Team Award. Their experienced, dedicated staff, strong team spirit, and genuine passion for care were evident throughout our conversation. Under Nicola Driscoll’s leadership, they have created an environment where both staff and residents flourish—truly exemplary care in action.
The Komplex Care Ops & Clinical Team
The Komplex Care Operations and Clinical Team is dedicated, accountable, and compassionate. They collaborate seamlessly, uphold the highest care standards, support one another like family, and prioritise client dignity and involvement. Their commitment, professionalism, and continuous growth make a lasting, positive impact.
The Care Innovator Award
Belong in Newcastle Under Lyme
WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT! A resident at Belong in Newcastle-under-Lyme has successfully lobbied and petitioned to become the FIRST female burgess. Historically, a burgess was a free inhabitant and householder of a medieval town, responsible for civic duties and taxes, later evolving into an elected borough representative—a true mark of civic citizenship. They are an amazing team.
Infection prevention and Control Care Home Team, Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Sustainability in care through integrated health and social care delivery has led to reduced infection rates, cost savings, and a strengthened sense of pride in care across Solihull and Birmingham. Collaboration between the NHS, local authorities, and care homes has successfully driven improved outcomes and higher-quality care for residents.
The Frontline Leaders Award
Sabrina Latchman,Radnor House
Sabrina is a dynamic frontline leader who leads by example, actively engaging on the floor while championing the wellbeing of both staff and service users. Her expertise in counselling and psychotherapy empowers her team, fostering a curious, supportive, and non-judgemental culture. She ensures every voice is heard, celebrates achievements, and turns challenges into opportunities for growth.
Claire Gwilliam,Bluebird Care Shropshire
Claire leads with the depth of experience she has gained from the ground up, giving her genuine empathy and understanding for her team. Passionate and highly knowledgeable, she shares her expertise generously, inspiring those around her. Her dedication and commitment to her work are evident in everything she does
The Care Assessor Award
Simon McAuley,Elgar Care Ltd
Simon demonstrates remarkable patience, dedication, and attention to detail. He consistently ensure their availability for both clients and staff, providing guidance and support whenever needed. Their commitment to making a meaningful difference, however small, reflects a genuine passion for care and an exceptional standard of professional responsibility.
The Three R’s Award
Craig McEvoy, JAM Care
Craig demonstrates exceptional dedication to personalised care, understanding each client’s unique needs and fostering genuine connections. He prioritises value-driven recruitment, staff development, and an inclusive, supportive culture. Beyond his team, he engages the wider community and shares his expertise as a public speaker, advancing best practices across the care sector.
Dan Skett, Temps4Care / Perms4Care
Dan excels in fostering inclusivity, empathy, and a people-centred approach within his team. He prioritises professional development, understands individual motivations, and ensures staff feel heard, valued, and supported. Through strong communication and thoughtful leadership, Dan creates a safe, inclusive environment that empowers employees and strengthens the overall care culture.
The Workforce Development Award
Rebekah J Plant, JAM Care Ltd
Rebekah is a highly knowledgeable, skilled, and approachable professional. She clearly demonstrated the extensive work she has invested in developing her entire workforce, ensuring every employee is fully equipped to consistently deliver exceptional, high-quality care. Her commitment to staff growth directly enhances the standard of care provided.
James Punch,IBC Healthcare
James is an exceptional care professional whose dedication transforms lives. Through innovative training, person-centred support, and unwavering empathy, he empowers staff and service users alike. His creativity, mentorship, and hands-on commitment improve culture, reduce restraint, and enhance quality of life.
The Putting People First Award
Gary Taylor, Dignus Group
Gary’s outstanding leadership has transformed his service into a welcoming, empowering home grounded in trust and opportunity. By seeing beyond challenges, removing barriers, and inspiring new ambitions, he demonstrates how patience, creativity, and unwavering dedication can change lives, foster growth, and leave a lasting legacy of hope.
Alex Palmer, City & County Healthcare
Alex brings remarkable optimism and determination to her role, consistently seeing possibilities where others see limitations. She empowers individuals to regain confidence, independence, and joy, whether recovering from sudden injury or navigating mental health challenges. Through attentive listening and collaborative support, Alex helps people rediscover purpose and embrace new opportunities.
The Palliative Carer Award
Paul Jones, Herefordshire care home
Paul empowers individuals to live their best lives, recognising that everyone deserves a meaningful and memorable end-of-life experience. He took a resident back to his hometown in Birmingham to reminisce about an old oak tree from his youth and accompanied another resident on a hot air balloon ride, courageously facing his own fear of heights to make their dreams a reality.
Sue Pask, Ashberry Healthcare LTDs
Sue radiates love and compassion, dedicating herself to ensuring those in her care experience “perfect peace” at the end of life. She goes above and beyond, creating lasting memories such as personalised bookmarks for the bereaved and offering post-bereavement counselling, providing comfort and support during the most difficult times.
The Social Care Nurse Award
Amanda Murphy,Exemplar Healthcare
Amanda’s passion was evident from the start. Sharing her career journey, it was clear that nursing and social care are integral to who she is. She spoke with deep insight into the challenges and opportunities within the sector and exemplifies an outstanding role model for social care nurses.
Priyanka Anand,Herefordshire Care Homes
Priyanka has fostered a positive learning environment at Highwell House, establishing a library to support staff, students, and learners. Her leadership in guiding the team to achieve Platinum GSF, with a full-mark portfolio, is exceptional and will have a direct, lasting impact on the quality of care and support provided to residents.
The Housing with Care Award
Brickfields, Community Integrated Care
Sherraden’s passion for her role was evident throughout the interview. I was particularly impressed by her commitment to a person-centred approach, not only in supporting the individuals in her care but also in fostering and guiding her team with the same dedication and thoughtfulness.
The Co – Production Award
Amy Varney, Komplex Care
A confident, well-crafted entry showcasing clear innovation, supported by strong, tangible examples. The submission highlights meaningful collaboration across teams and demonstrates measurable progress, reflecting both strategic thinking and practical impact. Its clarity, creativity, and evidence of results make it a compelling and highly effective contribution.
The Unpaid Carer Award
Yasmin Platt, Belong
Yasmin’s dedication goes beyond caring for her grandmother—she supports residents and families daily, bringing positivity, warmth, and energy. Always encouraging participation and assisting staff, she makes everyone feel valued. Selfless, committed, and compassionate, Yasmin’s efforts have a meaningful impact on the community, making her truly deserving of Unpaid Carer of the Year.
The Outstanding Contribution to Social Care Award
Anas Al Saadi, MACC Care
Anas is truly inspirational. He connects with residents daily, bringing joy and pride through his work. By recreating treasured family recipes alongside residents, he celebrates memories and lived experiences. His signature dishes, guided by residents and family tasters, reflect his passion, creativity, and dedication to making every meal meaningful.
