THE CARE HOME BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD
Highly Commended: Vicky Simpson, Director, VCare 24
Establishing VCare 24 over five years ago, Vicky has led the organisation to its most successful year yet. Currently operating five residential children’s homes, Vicky and her team are actively planning expansion within this sector.
Winner: Natasha Lazovic, Managing Director, Barchester Healthcare
Natasha exercises complete oversight of 80+ nursing and residential care homes, prioritising her passion for quality. Natasha’s exceptional dedication to resident and staff retention and wellbeing, coupled with her personal touch, contributes to the growth and profitability of Barchester Healthcare, solidifying its position as the provider of choice in the care sector.
THE HOME CARE BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD
Highly Commended: Fiona Leggott, Franchisor and Director, Blossom Homecare
Fiona’s leadership with franchisees and the positive impact of her innovative approach inspire other women to reshape the social care sector. Pioneering a client-centric model with a minimum 50-minute visit duration, Blossom Home Care successfully franchised in 2020, achieving CQC good ratings for all offices.
Winner: Lucy Campbell, CEO, Right at Home UK
Committed to reshaping the future of homecare, Lucy’s unparalleled dedication to Right at Home and the broader sector is evident. Serving as Homecare Association Vice Chair, Lucy actively addresses major challenges facing the sector and advocates for collaborative solutions. In her first 18 months as CEO, Lucy’s resilient and optimistic leadership has inspired others, contributing to the network’s achievements.
THE NEW BUSINESS AWARD
Highly Commended: Hannah Montgomery, Founder, Grace Cares
Inspired by a charitable act, Hannah founded Grace Cares, a not-for-profit repurposing care equipment to benefit those in need. Her passion for social care and commitment to making a difference resonate through the organization’s positive impact
Winner: Elle Sena, CEO, Chislehurst Care
Elle Sena, CEO of Chislehurst Healthcare, with 24 years of healthcare experience, champions affordable, quality care. Her strategic leadership and commitment to excellence make her a visionary in community social care.
THE CORPORATE LEADER AWARD
Highly Commended: Lorna Russell, COO, TLC Group
Lorna oversees operational management, ensuring outstanding care delivery. She led the attainment of IIP Gold and Platinum status, a rare feat during the pandemic, and secured Gold Employer of the Year in 2019, a first for care home providers. Lorna now strives for Double IIP Platinum, focusing on wellness initiatives and mental health support.
Winner: Samantha Manning, COO, Excelcare
Samantha has not only elevated Excelcare but also the profile of Social Care, drawing on her two-decade journey within the company, starting from a PA role. She stands as proof that, with hard work and dedication, any woman can achieve her goals. Sam’s endeavours contributed to Excelcare’s recognition among the Top 20 care homes.
THE THIRD SECTOR LEADER AWARD
Highly Commended: Carren Bell, CEO and Founder, Lagan’s Foundation
In the midst of personal adversity, Carren initiated Lagan’s Foundation after the loss of her baby girl. Seeking to channel her grief into something positive, she aimed to support families undergoing similar experiences. Over the past 12 years, she has committed every day to reshaping the face of social care in the Northwest and providing remarkable opportunities for women to discover their passions and flourish.
Winner: Karolina Gerlich, CEO, Care Workers Charity
As a former domiciliary care worker, Karolina possesses a deep understanding of the skills, impact, and challenges encountered by care workers, fuelling her commitment to instigating meaningful change. Despite recent health challenges, her leadership has resulted in the awarding of 10,000 grants and the distribution of over £5.6 million since 2020. Under her visionary direction, Karolina has increased the charity’s annual charitable giving by £3 million, introduced two new grant programs, and launched vital mental health initiatives.
THE RISING STAR AWARD (Care Homes)
Highly Commended: Elizabeth Jones, Care Assistant, Canford Healthcare
Two years ago, Liz joined Ashridge Court Care Centre after the tragic loss of her husband, marking her first venture into the care sector. Having left her previous role as a store manager at Sainsbury’s to care for her late husband, Liz has transitioned seamlessly into her new responsibilities. Currently pursuing her Level 3 qualification, Liz holds the crucial position of Safe People Handling at the home.
Winner: Julie Hughes, Carer, Four Seasons Healthcare
Julie has devoted the last 15 years to Lansdowne Care Home with passion, arriving before her shift starts at 6 am to share a cup of tea with early-rising residents. Battling ill health, including having a kidney removed, she remained dedicated to her residents. Her resilience and dedication to her residents amid personal challenges exemplify her extraordinary commitment.
THE RISING STAR AWARD (Home Care)
Highly Commended: Emily Hemmings, Care Coordinator, Blue Angel Care
What distinguishes Emily as a rising star in the care industry is her proactive approach. In addition to her primary role, she took the initiative to drive recruitment and client leads at her branch. Her progression from caregiver to this pivotal role exemplifies the spirit of a rising star in the care industry.
Winner: Hannah Davies, Supervisor, Christies Care
Previously a carer Hannah was offered the opportunity to be team leader for the new hourly care service. In just under a year, Hannah has lead a team that has delivered a profit and has expanded the area for care with a 25 mile radius. There have been times when Hannah has had to go out, care and also support the carers, there is nothing she won’t do to help the hourly service grow.
THE RISING STAR AWARD (Learning Disabilities & Autism)
Highly Commended: Samantha Ward, Team Leader, Dimensions
Sammie, once a shy support worker, has transformed into an exceptional lead support, prioritizing the needs of those we support. She fearlessly challenges assessments and supports teams in crisis. Always putting others first, she completed the Aspire program in her own time, applying the learnings to her daily work. Sammie’s growth is remarkable, and her dedication to continuous learning reflects her ambition to become a locality manager.
Winner: Julieanne Langdon, Business Enablement Administrator, PBS4
New to care, Julieanne has thrived remarkably. She invests time in understanding the individuals support, garnering extensive knowledge and applying this effectively in her daily role. She serves as a valuable asset to the organisation’s teams and engaging with family members and professionals calling the office, consistently exuding positivity and happiness.
THE RISING STAR AWARD (Children & Young People)
Highly Commended: Amy Adams, Team Leader, Keswick Care
Starting as a bank worker, Amy advanced to a residential support worker, then a team leader, and is now poised to step into her next role as a deputy manager. Amy has achieved all this in just four years and holds ambitious plans for further advancement. Amy prioritises the voices of the children in every decision.
Winner: Paula Swindells-Walsh, Registered Manager, Exceptional Care
Paula came to Exceptional care in 2021 as a Deputy Manager. Through hard work and despite many challenges she was successful in achieving Good throughout in Ofsted. This is a massive achievement for a first inspection and one that Paula has worked really hard in achieving.
THE EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY AWARD
Highly Commended: Marie Macdonald, Organisational Development Consultant, The Wilf Ward Family Trust
Drawing upon over twenty years of HR expertise, Marie has brought an abundance of knowledge and enthusiasm to The Trust. Collaborating closely with the Leadership and People Team, she spearheads initiatives to uplift the capabilities and wellbeing of colleagues, ensuring exceptional support for individuals.
Roxie Taj, Managing Director, Visiting Angels
Roxie possesses a deep understanding of the challenges within her local community, especially in Health and Social Care. Motivated by personal experiences, she dedicated five years to voluntary work in the care sector, gaining invaluable insights. Equipped with a Level 4 Diploma in Business Administration, she has now ventured into the social care arena, well-prepared to contribute meaningfully.
Winner: Sarah Offley, Chief Officer, Dudley Voices for Choice
Sarah serves as a strong advocate for individuals with learning disabilities and autism, providing them with a platform to express their voices. Sarah consistently challenges the rights of individuals, insisting on the recognition of their opinions. She actively pushes boundaries and, if necessary, revises the rule book to ensure inclusivity.
THE HR AND RECRUITER AWARD
Highly Commended: Joanna Kardzis & Georgiana Ciobotaru, Recruitment Team, Mumby’s Live-in Care
This dynamic duo have adopted innovative recruitment and retention strategies leading to a exceptional carer retention rate of 92.7%, with longstanding carers of 19 years. Their strategies are designed to ensure a diverse and inclusive workforce, which is represented by 27 nationalities with over 80% speaking more than one language.
Winner: Helen Sinden, Recruitment Lead, Abbots Care
Helen is well-acquainted with the challenges inherent in recruiting and cultivating a motivated workforce in the sector. She has been instrumental in reshaping the company’s talent acquisition strategy, introducing innovative methods such as a customized App and a Learning Management System.
THE COMMUNICATIONS GURU AWARD
Highly Commended: Stephanie Nimmo, Engagement Lead, NHS Transformation Directorate
Stephanie’s commitment to social care is deeply rooted in personal and professional experiences. Following the social care in place for her own daughter received before her untimely passing, Stephanie pledged to support other parents, channelling her communication skills into writing three books on the subject.
Winner: Sarah McCann, Head of Marketing, National Care Group
Sarah has revolutionised National Care Group’s communications, leaving a lasting impact on their profile and enhancing colleague retention. Among her accomplishments, she introduced a colleague engagement App connecting 2,600 colleagues across multiple locations. The App achieved a remarkable 90% sign-up rate within three months. Sarah also launched an oversized magazine co-produced by people who draw on services.
THE GIRL POWER AWARD
Highly Commended: Heather Fowler, Trust Lead for Safeguarding, Endeavour Learning Trust
Heather brings an unquestionable depth of knowledge, understanding, and intuition to her responsibilities.. Heather’s advocacy, individuality, passion, and integrity not only empower confidence but also enhance the overall value of her colleagues. Her unique qualities contribute to creating a work environment that encourages and uplifts those working alongside her.
Winner: Leigh Cole, Partnership Manager, HABS Family Support Team
Over the past 13 years, Leigh has transformed the partnership into a remarkable service, catering to diverse community needs. As a manager, she embodies kindness, fun, and extensive knowledge, consistently going above and beyond without seeking recognition. Leigh invests significant time to address family needs, fostering a culture of continuous skill development.
THE GIRL POWER TEAM AWARD
Highly Commended: Egalite Office Team, Egalite Care
The all-female team at Egalite epitomises the spirit of “girl power” in social care, overseeing a team of over 100 carers. Their commitment to enhancing the lives of vulnerable individuals, advocacy, mentorship, community engagement, teamwork, and innovative problem-solving ensures the delivery of exceptional care.
Highly Commended: The Cancer Support Team, Home Instead Greenwich, Bexley, Lewisham and Southwark
This remarkable team originated when a dedicated care professional faced a breast cancer diagnosis, later progressing to the third stage. Recognising the limitations of traditional expressions of sympathy, the team established a GP Cancer Support Group. Drawing from personal experiences, including deaths, misdiagnoses, language barriers, and supporting a young widow, the team became powerful cancer ambassadors. Engaging in Race for Life and fundraising for Macmillan cancer research, they realised the importance of offering private, confidential support for saying goodbyes to loved ones.
Winner: The Team at Dedicated Care East Anglia
This tightly-knit team functions as a mutual support system, utilising their diverse strengths and distinctive qualities to mentor and guide one another. The team’s synergy has garnered them an outstanding rating from CQC. Collaborating to customise job roles for optimal productivity, they extend support, such as menopause support and childcare. Consequently, the business flourishes without constraints, achieving success for both the workforce and the individuals it supports.
THE OUTSTANDING PARTNER AWARD
Highly Commended: Gemma Manderson, Client Manager, Aspirico
After extensive experience as a care worker, care manager, care trainer and assessor, Gemma re-entered the workforce with Aspirico as a Client Manager. Retaining her unwavering dedication and passion for service users and social care staff, Gemma has wholeheartedly embraced the ethos of partnership-working in her new role with the customers under her care.
Winner: Laura Guntrip, Partner, Lester Aldridge LLP
Laura stands as an exceptional and inspiring leader in the health and social care sector, championing fairness and justice for social care providers for over 15 years. Despite her battle with COVID-19 in late 2022, Laura prioritised clients’ needs over her own, even working from the hospital to address critical work. In the past year, Laura has successfully defended care providers against various enforcement actions, ensuring several services not only remained open but also thrived despite unjust actions taken by CQC and/or Ofsted.
THE SOCIAL CARE CHANGE AGENT AWARD
Highly Commended: Gillian Ashcroft, CEO and Director, Exceptional Care
Entrepreneur Gillian is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of vulnerable children and young people. Employing innovative strategies and collaborating with others, she spearheads transformative change within the care system. Remarkably, Gillian manages this while maintaining a harmonious balance between her family life and overseeing two companies.
Winner: Kaddy Thomas, CEO, Carers Collective
Kaddy stands as a true inspiration, driven by personal challenges to improve the well-being of unpaid carers. Despite managing her health and medical condition while caring for her son and overseeing his caregiving team, she remains a resilient fighter and survivor. Personally funding Carers Collective, Kaddy is committed to its success, striving to support as many carers as possible.
THE SOCIAL CARE SUPERWOMAN AWARD (Care Homes)
Highly Commended: Stephanie Judge, Registered Manager, Eastgate Care
Stephanie epitomises the essence of a superwoman in social care, effortlessly guiding her team, supporting residents, and actively engaging with the community. In less than a year in her role, Stephanie has significantly boosted staff morale, fostering a united and valued team. Stephanie’s dedication to her role is unwavering, evident in her significant accomplishments, such as the opening of a dementia unit and successful recruitment efforts, strengthening the care team at Park House.
Winner: Kelly Hanson, Regional Operations Manager, Allerton Group
Kelly took on the challenge of turning around a failing service, not only transforming the service but also boosting staff morale and retention. Thanks to Kelly the service is now fully staffed and accepting new referrals from the Local Authority. A massive transformation in just 7 months – thanks to Kelly!
THE SOCIAL CARE SUPERWOMAN AWARD (Home Care)
Highly Commended: Penny Stapleton, Registered Manager, Cambridge Care Company
Penny, with over two decades of experience in social care, has dedicated herself tirelessly to uphold the highest standards of care for all service users. Going above and beyond, she ensures rigorous training and refresher courses for all staff, keeping them updated. Penny also takes the time to personally know and connect with all care workers and service users.
Winner: Gracy Matilda, COO, Chosen Care Group
Gracy, a qualified Indian nurse, arrived in the UK in 2002 and commenced her journey as a team leader. Over a span of 5 years, her exceptional skills were acknowledged, propelling her to the position of registered manager for a 90-bedded nursing home. In 2017, she assumed the role of COO at Chosen Care Group, playing a crucial role in reshaping and reorganising the business for sustainability. Gracy’s strength, charisma, and capabilities have contributed to six years of continuous growth and expansion for the group.
THE SOCIAL CARE SUPERWOMAN AWARD (Learning Disabilities & Autism)
Highly Commended: Sophie Chester-Glyn, Director, Manor Community
Taking over Manor Community from her mother at a young age, Sophie has consistently ensured its success. Despite the company’s growth, Sophie prioritises the contentment and happiness of her staff. Regular check-ins, supervisions, and company drop-ins allow her to maintain open communication with teams, fostering a positive work environment.
Winner: Jayne Taylor, Locality Manager, Partners in Support
Jayne has endured significant health issues over the past few years and has adapted to a new way of living. Despite this Jayne has remained dedicated to her service, staff and the people they support. She is a great role model for her teams and when confronted by challenges. Her superwoman skills are demonstrated by her above and beyond approach to enabling person centred support to enable independence and wellbeing.
THE SOCIAL CARE SUPERWOMAN AWARD (Children & Young People)
Highly Commended: Rachael Barrington, Social Worker, Medway Council
Rachael has dedicated herself to the care of two young individuals under the organisation’s supervision. Her commitment to ensuring their safety and well-being goes above and beyond daily expectations. Rachael consistently goes the extra mile, often working beyond her scheduled hours to prioritise the well-being of these young individuals. Her dedication is evident as she manages paperwork during her personal time. A true superwoman of social care!
Winner: Sally Jobling, Divisional Director for Supported Living, Salutem Care and Education
Sally’s career is a testament to her commitment to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives, marked by a consistent stream of innovative ideas to help them achieve their aspirations. As a superwoman in leadership, she played a key role in the original pilot of the Reach standards and consistently achieved good or outstanding ratings across all locations. Sally deftly manages the challenges of balancing studies with her full-time role, charity work, and family caring responsibilities.
THE TALENT DEVELOPMENT AWARD
Highly Commended: Susan Oates, Registered Manager, Healthcare Homes
Sue’s healthcare journey, rooted in her 1985 nursing qualification, exemplifies her enduring dedication to talent development and support, values instilled during nurse training. There are numerous success stories, where Sue has gone above and beyond to transform lives, a testimony to Sue’s commitment to breaking barriers and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.
Winner: Kelly Pirotte, Group Head of Learning and Development, Keys Group
Drawing from her educational background and personal experience as a parent of a disabled child, Kelly is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those in the care sector. She has crafted leadership programs to nurture individuals’ leadership potential, breaking through glass ceilings. Kelly inspires aspiring leaders to overcome imposter syndrome, underscoring everyone’s inherent potential and empowering them to reach for the stars.
THE WELLBEING AT WORK AWARD
Highly Commended: Bozena Szczepaniak, Home Manager, Care UK
Bozena started her journey with Care UK 15 years ago and, after a decade, became the Home Manager at The Burroughs. Her inspirational leadership is evident in her emphasis on mental health and well-being. Bozena takes on multiple roles, acting as a sister, mother, counsellor, and friend, and has successfully mentored colleagues to secure promotions and take on new responsibilities.
Winner: Sam Chater, Registered Manager, Runwood Homes
Sam has implemented a remarkable initiative to support colleagues and employees experiencing menopause, providing valuable assistance to women in this phase. Furthermore, Sam has undergone training as a Make Every Contact Count (MECC) champion with Public Health, enabling her to guide staff to relevant services and support for health and well-being. Her commitment to promoting workforce well-being and serving as a role model for women is truly commendable.
THE WOMAN IN TECH AWARD
Highly Commended: Miriam Valencia, Head of Content, Access Social Care
Miriam has played a pivotal role in developing Access Social Care’s award-winning legal information chatbot. The chatbot, a recipient of the Nesta Prize and Third Sector Business Awards, offers 24/7 free information to individuals with social care needs, caregivers, and care workers. Miriam has exemplified best practices in co-production, ensuring the chatbot caters to individuals with learning disabilities and racialised communities experiencing health and social care inequalities.
Winner: The Leadership Team, Majesticare
This team are commitment in seeking and implementing innovative technologies to enrich residents’ lives and enhance team efficiency. Pioneering the adoption of Alexa Smart Properties, the team recognised the technology’s potential to elevate residents’ independence and purpose. Through strategic phased implementation and comprehensive training for both teams and residents, 25% of Majesticare’s residents now plan their days using Alexa, which has had a measurable impact on the quality of lives for the residents.
THE INSPIRATIONAL VOLUNTEER AWARD
Highly Commended: Liz Fairfield, Volunteer, Making Space
Liz’s journey with Derby City Dementia began when she volunteered after supporting her friend through young-onset dementia. Pioneering the young-onset dementia group and aiding caregivers, Liz actively participates in dementia empowerment and engagement projects. Drawing on her IT management background, Liz excels at securing grants and donations, raising over £8000 to fund support for people with dementia and their caregivers
Winner: Belle Sarah Thapa, Health Care Volunteer, Home Instead Greenwich, Bexley, Lewisham and Southwark
Belle deserves to be recognised for her unwavering commitment to supporting older people and children living in poverty, both home and away, raising over £4,000! Supported by Home Instead Greenwich, Bexley, Lewisham, and Southwark, Belle’s leadership in volunteering at such a young age is truly commendable.
THE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Highly Commended: Lee Hendon, CEO, Jaffray Care
Lee has devoted over 35 years to improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health issues, and complex healthcare needs. A pioneer in implementing community-based care for people with learning disabilities. Lee’s commitment extends beyond her professional roles, as evidenced by her research on hate crime against people with learning disabilities, cited in the House of Commons. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Lee returned to front-line nursing, leading a team that opened a new unit and community activity hub to support vulnerable individuals.
Winner: Carol Cannon, Non Executive Director, Focus Care Supported Living
With 53 years of service in diverse roles, Carol has significantly influenced the health and social care sector. With a multitude of qualifications, including a RGN, she delivered over 10,000 babies and advocated for social care as a board member of The National Care Association. Her passion, caring nature, commitment, and dedication have left a lasting impact on service users and staff alike. Even in retirement, she continues to contribute to the sector by volunteering in the NHS, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to improving lives.
THE SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD
Nadra Ahmed CBE, Chair, National Care Association
Nadra Ahmed CBE has served as the Chairman of the National Care Association since 2001, contributing over 35 years to the social care field. Nadra served as the Vice Chairman of Skills for Care for 11 years, and is a trustee of Parkinson’s UK and other charities. Additionally, Nadra holds the role of Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Kent and serves as a Kent Ambassador. She regularly contributes to journals, speaks at national and international conferences, and represents the views of social care providers in the media. Recognising her ongoing commitment, Nadra was honoured with the CBE in 2023 for her significant services to social care.