THE CARE HOME BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Winner:

Samantha Crawley, CEO, Bracebridge Care

Samantha has over 20 years of experience in the care sector, working her way through various roles to become CEO. Her journey from humble beginnings allows her to lead with authenticity and empathy, earning her teams’ trust. A strong advocate for succession planning, Samantha mentors future leaders and prioritises team wellbeing. She constantly challenges her staff to push boundaries, ensuring exceptional care and fostering a unique, supportive environment at Bracebridge Care Group.

Highly Commended:

Nirva Patel, Director, St Mary’s Care Home

Nirva Patel, a young but dynamic care home manager, has transformed a struggling facility into a thriving, family-like environment. Her entrepreneurial approach has not only improved finances but also fostered a culture of empowerment and professional development for staff, boosting morale and retention. Nirva has created community partnerships, introduced innovative programs like virtual reality therapy, and developed specialized spaces for residents’ well-being. Her compassionate leadership redefines exceptional care and strengthens both staff and resident connections.

THE HOME CARE BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Winner:

Shweta Dowlot Maulayah, Director, Maucare Services

Shweta embodies the qualities of a true businesswoman, making her a deserving  winner. Her passion, enthusiasm, and determination drive her success while inspiring those around her. Shweta’s commitment to mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and creating a supportive workplace culture highlights her selflessness and leadership. With her attention to detail, industry knowledge, and dedication to excellence, Shweta leads by example, making her a beacon of inspiration in the business world.

Highly Commended:

Christinne Cameron, Nominated Individual, Aspirations Care

Christine has dedicated countless years to Aspirations, demonstrating unwavering empathy and compassion for everyone within the team. Many of us have worked alongside her for over a decade, witnessing the growth of the organisation while staying true to its core values. Under her leadership, these values have only strengthened, and her ability to lead successful teams and businesses with such dedication is a true inspiration. Christine’s impact and vision is outstanding.

THE CORPORATE LEADER AWARD

Ruth Brown, COO, Home Instead UK

Ruth has been instrumental in growing the company into one of the UK’s leading home care provider. A compassionate and driven leader, Ruth inspires others through her dedication to exceptional care and her commitment to mentoring. Her personal experiences as a mother and with dementia care drive her to lead with empathy, ensuring the highest standards of care. Ruth’s passion and influence make her a role model for women in business and social care leadership.

Highly Commended:

Gracy Matilda, COO, Chosen Care Group

Gracy has transformed the organisation into a model of excellence in social care through her visionary leadership. Gracy’s commitment to empowering women, promoting gender equality, and driving innovation in care has significantly improved outcomes for service users. Her mentorship programs have empowered countless women to excel in leadership roles, while her strategic focus on innovation has set new standards in the sector. Gracy is a true inspiration, leading with compassion, excellence, and dedication.

THE THIRD SECTOR LEADER AWARD

Winner:

Rachel Peacock, CEO, Making Space

Rachel’s leadership as Executive Director of Development at Making Space has been transformative. With a career spanning from youth worker to CEO, she combines deep sector knowledge with a relentless drive to improve the lives of vulnerable people. Rachel’s commitment to co-production and person-centred care has revolutionised services. Her visible, compassionate leadership and ambitious vision continue to inspire colleagues and advocate for positive change, making her a true champion of the voluntary sector.

Highly Commended:

Liz Jones, Policy Director, National Care Forum

Liz is a tireless advocate for better social care. Her commitment to improving care for people, providers, and the workforce is evident through her work with government, sector members, and research groups. Liz leads the policy team at NCF, driving impactful initiatives. She empowers care providers with knowledge, champions inclusion, and works to shape policies that benefit future care recipients.

THE RISING STAR AWARD (Care Home)

Winner:

Rachel Parker, Scheme Manager, Hightown Housing Association

Rachel has demonstrated exceptional growth and leadership since joining The Elms in 2014. Promoted to Scheme Manager in 2023, she consistently advocates for residents’ needs, securing resources to enhance their living environment and quality of life. Rachel’s dedication extends beyond her role, completing her Level 3 and pursuing Level 5 qualifications while empowering her team to innovate and improve support. Her proactive approach, compassion, and commitment make her a deserving winner.

Highly Commended:

Sophie Ferguson, Care Manager, Towans Care

Sophie has demonstrated remarkable growth and dedication since joining as an apprentice ten years ago, progressing through roles to become Care Manager. Her commitment to person-centered care and staff development has strengthened the team’s skills and improved residents’ quality of life. Sophie leads by example, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, embracing regulatory changes, and ensuring excellent partnerships with professionals. 

THE RISING STAR AWARD (Home Care)

Winner:

Charlotte Parsons, Locality Manager Midlands, Salutem Care and Education

Charlotte Parsons is an exceptional leader whose impact in Supported Living has been profound. Over the past 10 years, her innovative, person-centred approaches have empowered individuals to lead independent, fulfilling lives. Charlotte’s resilience during challenging times and her ability to inspire her team with calm and compassion make her a true trailblazer. Her commitment to continuous development, combined with her leadership skills, makes Charlotte a deserving recipient of The Rising Star Award, shaping the future of care.

Highly Commended:

Isobelle O’Neill, Senior Care Consultant, Fairway Healthcare

Isobelle’s leadership journey began at just 17 during the challenging Covid pandemic. Over the past five years, she has grown into a tenacious, empathetic leader, managing 250 care staff and overseeing 150,000 care hours annually. With a Level 3 qualification in Recruitment Consultancy, she excels in various business areas, including Payroll, Training, and Sales. Isobelle’s passion for lifelong learning, her dedication to quality care, and her team’s growth is outstanding.

THE RISING STAR AWARD (Learning Disabilities & Mental Health)

Winner:

Cheryl Hampton, Deputy Manager, Blue Ribbon Health and Wellbeing

Cheryl is an exceptional Deputy Manager who consistently goes above and beyond for those in her care. She prioritises individuals’ happiness, safety, and choices, advocating for them with unwavering dedication. Starting as a team leader, Cheryl quickly advanced to Deputy Manager, where she now manages a complex service. Her ability to achieve outstanding outcomes for individuals, their families, and stakeholders reflects her remarkable commitment, leadership, and advocacy skills.

Highly Commended:

Mandy Coult, Assistant General Manager, Hesley Group

Mandy is an exceptional manager with strong leadership qualities. Balancing her role as assistant general manager with a young family, she remains supportive and a great role model to her team. Mandy listens to others, offering solutions and valuing staff input. Her calm, professional, and enthusiastic approach to challenges inspires her colleagues to stay focused and learn from her guidance. Mandy’s skills and dedication make her an asset, and she is poised for further career success.

THE RISING STAR AWARD (Children & Young People)

Winner:

Danielle Maher, Registered Manager, Resilience Residential Ltd

Danielle is an outstanding manager at Wood Cottage, a children’s home for teenagers affected by violence, criminality, and exploitation. She has a remarkable ability to engage and transform the lives of some of the most disengaged young people. Danielle’s unwavering commitment to their safety and well-being, exemplified by her bold promise to never give up on them, has resulted in many success stories. Her dedication to both her team and the children she supports makes her an exceptional leader and advocate for child protection.

Highly Commended:

Laura Richardson, Senior Life Practitioner, Kisimul School

Laura has grown significantly in confidence over the past six months, and her dedication to improving young people’s lives is evident in her work. She is eager to learn new skills and complete training to better support the young people in her care. Laura is always supportive of both staff and the young people, and she is a true credit to the team. The young people are fortunate to have her fighting for the best possible life outcomes.

THE EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY AWARD

Winner:

Pamela Sinnott, Diversity and Inclusion Business Partner, Certitude

Pamela has made a significant impact since joining Certitude, leading their Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and expanding the program by 170%. Her initiatives, including Pride participation, Black History Month events, and the launch of the “Uniquely You” webinars, have fostered a more inclusive culture. As a result, 84% of colleagues now feel treated with fairness and respect, and engagement has grown by 141%. Pamela’s leadership and ability to unite people make her a deserving recipient of this award.

Highly Commended:

All Care Thames Valley Team

Gemma Kingston and her team have demonstrated outstanding commitment to equality and diversity. Over the past five years, Gemma, alongside her manager, has fostered a team that embraces a wide range of backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Their inclusive approach to care and work has created a supportive environment where everyone feels valued, ensuring both staff and customers benefit from personalised, culturally aware care. Through shared learning and mutual respect, they have exemplified how diversity enhances team cohesion and positive outcomes.

THE HR AND RECRUITER AWARD

Winner:

Pam Bainwait, Managing Director, Stronglife

Pam has been instrumental in Strong Life Care’s growth from one to seven homes, achieving a remarkable 98% staff retention and avoiding agency use in 2023/24. Passionate about diversity, 34% of staff identify as LGBTQ, and multiple nationalities are represented. Pam champions staff welfare, supports initiatives for women and ex-offenders, and has set up the Banwait Charity. A trustee for Wakefield Hospice, Pam’s leadership fosters a happy, skilled workforce and outstanding care quality.

Highly Commended:

Emma Madge, Director of HR & Resourcing, Salutem Care & Education

Emma has revolutionised recruitment and HR processes with a focus on female empowerment. Transitioning from the police force, she has infused her passion into menopause awareness, work-life balance, and innovative initiatives like supporting female ex-offenders into employment. Recently promoted to Director of HR & Resourcing, Emma has drastically reduced agency hours, boosting care quality. She mentors a talented team, fostering their growth while balancing her own young family. Emma’s leadership is driving impactful change across the organisation.

THE COMMUNICATIONS GURU AWARD

Winner:

Victoria Garrett, Communications Lead, National Care Forum

Victoria has made an incredible impact since joining the National Care Forum in April 2023, leveraging her experience in the hospice and technology sectors to enhance the organisation’s communications. She has been pivotal in strengthening the voice of the not-for-profit care sector, leading campaigns like “Speak Up For Care” to engage with policymakers, media, and the public. Her strategic efforts in PR, media relations, and event organisation have amplified the sector’s influence and fostered valuable collaborations.

Highly Commended:

Phoebe Hill, Associate Director – Corporate Communications, Christie & Co

Phoebe has been instrumental in driving Christie & Co’s healthcare media and PR efforts since 2020. She has significantly increased care-related press releases and media coverage, with a 141% rise in press releases and 80% more coverage in 2024. Phoebe’s strategic content creation and strong media relationships raise awareness about the care sector, supporting buyers, sellers, and consultants. She also contributed to Care Home Open Week and a female-led round-table initiative, highlighting her leadership and dedication to the industry.

THE GIRL POWER AWARD (Individual)

Winner:

Hannah Newcombe, Senior Associate Director, PBS UK 

Hannah has shown incredible growth since joining PBS UK, starting as a new practitioner and working her way up to Senior Associate Director, leading a team of 12. Her willingness to step out of her comfort zone and embrace challenges has made her a driving force in the company. Hannah has completed a Postgraduate degree, developed exceptional training, and earned outstanding feedback from clients. Most importantly, she’s become a true inspiration to her team, who describe her as their superhero.

Highly Commended:

Simona Nikova, Deputy Manager, Excel Care

Simona deserves this award for her exceptional work ethic and dedication. She embodies teamwork, always putting her colleagues and residents first, and is never afraid to get her hands dirty. Simona plays a key role in keeping the team united, reminding everyone that they’re like one big family. No matter how many hours she works, she’s always there to support her team and ensure everything runs smoothly.

THE GIRL POWER AWARD (Team)

Winner:

Team Sonia Thapa and Shiba Kumari Pun, Home Instead Greenwich, Bexley, Lewisham and Southwark

This dynamic team have transformed their community through dedication, compassion, and hard work. From founding a charity for Gurkha war widows to creating a Dementia Friendly Grow Project, they have supported marginalised communities, taught over 300 migrants, and helped improve the lives of countless individuals. Sonia also co-founded Home Instead Greenwich and Bexley, achieving Outstanding ratings. Their remarkable contributions, including winning The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, make them truly deserving of recognition.

Highly Commended:

The Management Team, Dedicated Care

The management team at Dedicated Care is made up of 30 incredible women who work tirelessly to ensure all service users receive exceptional care, love, and support. They prioritise both the well-being of their staff and service users, offering mental health support and organising fully funded team bonding days. These inspirational women work 24/7, going above and beyond to create a supportive environment, making Dedicated Care a great place to work!

THE OUTSTANDING PARTNER AWARD

Winner:

Claire Donnelly & Sue Sargeant, Primary Care Liaison Nurse & Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Tees,Esk & Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust

Sue and Claire have greatly improved healthcare outcomes for individuals with learning disabilities by reducing inappropriate prescribing and promoting holistic medication reviews. Their collaboration with Primary Care pharmacists has fostered better care through reasonable adjustments, enhancing access for vulnerable individuals. By creating easy-read materials and supporting care settings, they have improved health outcomes, reduced medication use, and elevated the quality of life for people with learning disabilities, making a significant, lasting impact in the sector.

Highly Commended:

Stefanie Ioannou, Healthcare Finance Manager, Shawbrook Bank

Stefanie has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in healthcare, managing a portfolio of over £400 million and supporting more than 50 operators in the care sector. Her dedication to improving assets and facilities has had a direct impact on saving lives and enhancing patient outcomes. Recently promoted, Stefanie continues to excel in her role and is on track for even greater success, making her a standout figure in the industry.

THE SOCIAL CHANGE AGENT AWARD

Winner:

Vicki Lambourne, Senior Customer Relations Manager, Care UK

Vicki’s innovative approach to community engagement has had a profound impact, particularly through projects like Generations of Change and her support of Oxford Paragenesis’s wellbeing program. She created an inter-generational curriculum that links Care UK residents with schoolchildren, teaching sustainability and biodiversity. Vicki also developed a tailored dementia awareness program for Oxford Paragenesis, providing valuable resources and support to over 500 employees. Her work fosters learning, compassion, and community spirit, making her a standout social change agent.

Highly Commended:

Helen Watkins, Treat Me Right! Project Manager, Certitude

Helen has been a transformative force at Treat Me Right! since 2020, driving learning disability awareness training and advocating for neurodiversity in the workplace. As a co-chair of the AccessAbility Network, she uses her lived experiences to raise awareness and support colleagues. Helen’s work, including her contributions to the Workplace Adjustments Policy and blog for Disability Pride Month, has fostered a culture of inclusivity, empowering others to share their stories and promoting acceptance across the organisation.

THE SOCIAL CARE SUPERWOMAN AWARD (Care Home)

Winner:

Katrina Ball, Care Home Manager, Larchwood Care

Katrina took over a struggling home under special measures, with high turnover and a tarnished reputation. Despite initial doubts, she saw the team’s passion and potential, turning the home around by fostering unity, boosting morale, and instilling leadership. Under her guidance, the home achieved back-to-back ‘Good’ Care Quality Commission ratings, secured multiple contracts, and became Somerset’s flagship pathway unit. Katrina has built a solid, motivated team, dedicated to improving residents’ experiences and continuously striving for excellence.

Highly Commended:

Josephine Mollison, General Manager, Belong Newcastle-Under-Lyme

Josephine has exemplified resilience, dedication, and leadership in her journey from a frontline role to a leadership position at Belong. She tackles every challenge with determination, creating vibrant, inclusive communities where everyone feels valued. Josephine’s efforts have significantly improved the quality of life for both staff and residents, and her positive impact is reflected in team success and community happiness. As a true role model, Josephine’s hard work and commitment make her deserving of a commendation.

THE SOCIAL CARE SUPERWOMAN AWARD (Home Care)

Winner:

Emma Bailie, Home Manager, The Salvation Army

Emma has transformed the home since joining in 2017, navigating challenges with resilience and vision. She led the home to achieve the Butterfly Dementia accreditation and a “Good” Care Quality Commission rating, placing residents’ care at the heart of everything. Emma’s ongoing commitment to improving the home, supporting staff, and creating a positive environment is inspiring. Her strength, ability, and dedication make her a true “superwoman” in every sense, and a gift to the organisation.

Highly Commended:

Caroline Groves, Care Manager, Home Instead Cambridge

Caroline exemplifies resilience and dedication. She revitalised team morale through innovative initiatives like “Win of the Week” and Wellbeing Wednesdays. Caroline’s unwavering care shines in moments like facilitating an end-of-life client’s discharge within 18 hours and ensuring timely home care for another late into the evening. 

THE SOCIAL CARE SUPERWOMAN AWARD (Learning Disabilities & Mental Health)

Winner:

Lorena Hall, Health and Social Care Lecturer, Bishop Grosseteste University

Lori’s journey from homelessness as a teenager to pursuing a PhD in social care, while lecturing at university, is nothing short of inspiring. Despite managing her adult son’s complex health needs and her own autism and ADHD, she never complains. She is passionate about making a difference for people with learning disabilities and future care professionals. Paying for her PhD herself, Lorena embodies the mantra, “Be a microphone, not a voice.” Her selflessness and dedication make her a true Superwoman.

Highly Commended:

Eva Travis, Registered Manager, Blue Ribbon Health and Wellbeing

Eva’s dedication, organisational skills, and commitment to continuous improvement make her an invaluable manager. Her focus on developing best practices has enhanced our service, creating consistency and a strong foundation for staff. Eva’s genuine care for both her team and service users shines through in her thoughtful approach to care and her ability to turn ideas into successful initiatives. Her leadership, such as organising a memorable Christmas party for our service users, exemplifies her exceptional commitment.

THE SOCIAL CARE SUPERWOMAN AWARD (Children & Young People)

Winner:

Suzanne Cooper, Registered Manager, Caridon Young Living

Suzanne is a visionary leader who founded Caridon Young Living, now running four semi-independent provisions for 16–18-year-olds across London and Surrey, providing vital support to young people in need. Her relentless drive led to opening her first Ofsted-registered residential children’s home, overcoming challenges with perseverance and dedication. Suzanne ensures her staff and young residents are cared for, exceeding expectations daily. Her tireless commitment and transformative impact make her a true Social Care Superwoman.

Highly Commended:

Laura Owen, Director, Consistent Quality Support

Laura is an exceptional leader whose unwavering dedication transforms lives. Over five years at CQS, she has tirelessly supported her team and children, often going above and beyond, including staying in A&E through crises. Laura fosters a culture of care, encouraging self-development and championing community initiatives like charity drives and food bank donations. Her ethos of love and support impacts everyone she touches, making her a true role model and a deserving commendation for this award.

THE TALENT DEVELOPMENT AWARD

Winner:

Diana Szabo, Registered Manager, Blue Angel Care

Diana has grown the team from 1 to 82 since 2017, fostering a culture of empowerment and skill development. She mentors team members like Kornel, a care planner excelling in personalised care, and Gavril, who transitioned from caregiver to training officer, enhancing learning through engaging sessions. Diana’s hands-on leadership also guided Nelly’s rise to Care Manager, introducing innovative supervision methods. Her dedication to nurturing talent makes her a worthy winner.

Highly Commended:

Kam Gill, Managing Director, Walfinch Oxfordshire

Kam Gill’s leadership at Walfinch Oxfordshire exemplifies outstanding talent development. She has proven examples of mentoring an individual, guiding her to progression from administrative assistant to owning her own Walfinch franchise in Swindon. Kam’s tailored mentorship ensured this person mastered coordination, compliance, and business development, setting her up for success. Kam also enriches her community with initiatives like art therapy and dementia-friendly music sessions. 

THE WELLBEING AT WORK AWARD

Winner:

The RCN Independent Health & Social Care Sector Team, Royal College of Nursing

Claire Sutton and team have shown exemplary leadership in promoting wellbeing at work across the independent health and social care sector. Their dedicated efforts support over 25,000 employers, advocating for safer staffing levels and better working conditions for RCN members. By establishing Independent Health and Social Care Lead Nurse roles, they continue to drive positive change, ensuring nurses receive the resources and support they need to thrive in their roles.

Highly Commended:

Lorna Regan, National Wellbeing Lead, Radis Community Care

Lorna has had a profound impact on both staff and clients. With her nursing background, she champions health and wellbeing across the organisation, hosting events and promoting inclusivity. Lorna established the Radis wellbeing service and advocates for equality, ensuring that individuals with health conditions or disabilities can live independently at home. She also fosters an inclusive environment, supporting flexible working for all, including a colleague with a disability, greatly enhancing their mental wellbeing.

THE WOMAN IN TECH AWARD

Winner:

Debbie Harris, Founder, Autumna

Debbie has developed two transformative tools revolutionising later-life care: DAD, which streamlines hospital discharges, reducing delays and improving patient outcomes, and OpenScore, a real-time quality rating system aiding care providers amidst regulatory challenges. With over 2,000 care homes adopting OpenScore within weeks, Debbie is reshaping care standards and transparency. Her innovative vision, benefiting patients, providers, and policymakers alike, makes her a standout winner.

Highly Commended:

Marta Bascunan, Operations Manager, Digital Care Hub

Marta has revolutionised national operations in just two years. Spearheading an award-winning cyber security program, she played a pivotal role in earning the 2023 Engagement Award at the National Cyber Awards. Marta oversees program delivery, financials, and events with exceptional efficiency, fostering sector-wide engagement. Her practical, inspiring leadership creates a motivated, high-performing team. Marta’s remarkable impact and limitless potential make her a standout finalist.

THE NEW BUSINESS AWARD

Winner:

The Grace Cares Tribe, Grace Cares

Grace Cares has made remarkable strides in revolutionising the care sector since its launch in February 2023, placing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles at the heart of its mission. In under two years, the organisation has grown rapidly, forming key partnerships and significantly increasing its operations and volunteer support. Notably, their MediCycle initiative and the creation of the Sustainability Guide for Care Managers have made a tangible impact, making Grace Cares a standout leader in sustainable care.

Highly Commended:

Adele Hollywood, Owner & Director, Unity Lives

Unity Lives, a newly founded Health and Social Care provider, has rapidly established itself as a leader in person-centered care across the North West. Despite starting from scratch with no client base, founder Adele used her industry expertise to secure consultancy contracts, laying the foundation for the company’s success. In just two years, Unity Lives has expanded to four supported living properties, with plans for more. The company has made a significant impact, recently winning the ‘Best Start-Up Business 2024’ award.

THE INSPIRATIONAL VOLUNTEER AWARD

Winner:

Sue Smith, Making Space

Sue is a dedicated volunteer who turned her personal tragedy into a source of hope for others. After losing her partner to addiction, she began volunteering at Making Space, offering invaluable support to families affected by similar struggles. Drawing from her lived experience, Sue creates a safe and understanding space for those in need. Her compassion, resilience, and commitment over nearly a decade have transformed countless lives, making her truly deserving of this award.

Highly Commended:

Vicki Shuttleworth, Cygnet Elms

Vicki is an extraordinary individual who inspires everyone she meets. Despite living with autism, ADHD, and complex disabilities, she leads inclusive Makaton sessions for staff, patients, and visitors at Cygnet Hospital. Vicki’s passion for creating a more inclusive world shines through her patient, personalised teaching. By helping others communicate, she impacts not only those with learning disabilities but also the deaf community. Vicki’s selflessness and determination make her truly deserving of this recognition.

THE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD (Community)

Winner:

Kathryn Smith, CEO, Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE)

Kathryn has dedicated over 30 years to transforming social care. Inspired by caring for her grandmother, Kathryn’s career spans leadership roles at Alzheimer’s Society, Scope, and government bodies, championing better outcomes for society’s most vulnerable. At SCIE, she has pioneered co-production and innovative reforms, embedding lived experience into policy and practice. Her visionary leadership continues to inspire systemic change, prioritising dignity, equity, and quality care for all.

Highly Commended:

Barbara Hobbs, Non-Executive Director, Blue Angel Care

Barbara is a pioneering force in social care, with a career spanning the NHS, private sector, and her role as a UKHCA, (now the National Care Home Association), board member. Her transformative leadership at Blue Angel Care advanced digital systems, achieved strong Care Quality Commission ratings, and set new sustainability standards. A champion of quality care, Barbara refines services, mentors teams, and inspires future leaders. Her lifelong dedication to innovation and excellence has profoundly shaped the sector.

THE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD (Residential)

Winner:

Sue Pickersgill, Senior Care Assistant, Woodcare Group

Sue’s 32-year career in social care is a testament to her dedication, compassion, and drive. From starting as a part-time care assistant while raising her family to achieving her Level 7 Strategic Management qualification and excelling as a Home Manager, Sue’s journey reflects her passion for learning and improving lives. Her tireless commitment to residents, families, and colleagues has made her a role model and high achiever. Always smiling, Sue truly embodies excellence in care.

Highly Commended:

Kirstie Jones, Chief People Officer, Salutem Care and Education

Kirstie Jones is a beacon of excellence in social care, with a remarkable 30-year career dedicated to improving services and supporting others. As Salutem’s “People Guru,” she has crafted a culture of empowerment, compassion, and growth, shaping both workforce and care quality. Her people-centred leadership, vast expertise, and passion for dignity and respect have transformed lives. Kirstie’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication, mentoring, and inspiration, making her deserving of a commendation of this prestigious award.

THE SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

Winner:

Karolina Gerlich, CEO, The Care Workers Charity

Karolina Gerlich is the CEO of the Care Workers’ Charity, where she champions the rights and wellbeing of care workers across the UK. As an immigrant, former care worker, and parent, Karolina brings a personal understanding and passion to her work. Having worked in the care sector herself, she knows firsthand the challenges that care workers face and the profound impact that supportive policies can have on their lives.

Karolina’s leadership at the Care Workers’ Charity has been instrumental in securing vital support for care workers, from financial assistance to advocacy for better working conditions. She is dedicated to creating a community where care workers—many of whom, like her, come from diverse backgrounds—are valued, recognised, and supported. Under her guidance, the charity has grown its resources and outreach, ensuring that more care workers have access to the help they need.

As a parent, Karolina is especially committed to improving the work-life balance and mental health of care workers, recognising the importance of family and personal wellbeing. She is a strong advocate for social care reform and continues to collaborate with policymakers and sector leaders to drive change. Karolina’s unique perspective  gives her a powerful voice in advocating for the fair treatment and recognition of care workers, making her a respected leader in the sector.