More than 250 nominations have been received for the Proud to Care awards, celebrating the outstanding contributions of those in Cornwall’s independent adult social care sector.
Work is now under way to shortlist these nominations, which cover 11 different categories, ahead of an award ceremony taking place in September.
Cornwall Council cabinet member for adult social care and health, Cllr Andy Virr said:
“Nominations have come from a wide range of sources including line managers, colleagues and people who are receiving care.
“The stories are very touching and show how much people value care workers, even though this isn't always fully recognised or reported. Everyone who has been nominated has received a certificate acknowledging their achievement.
“I’d like to give a heartfelt thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination - there is some exceptional and impactful work being carried out daily in our communities.”
A diverse and inclusive panel from Citizens Checkers, Cornwall Rural Community Charity and Carers Partnership Board, have been reviewing the nominations. Their top three finalists in each category will go forward to a judge's panel taking place in August chaired by Ali Bulman, the Director of Adult Social Services in Cornwall. This panel will choose the winners in all categories.
Here are some of the nominations:
”C was my mother’s carer in the community. He was an exceptional carer, very skilled and kind and went above and beyond to make her feel valued and became a true friend to her over 2 years. My mother did not want carers and started out refusing to open the door, but he gained her trust, became a great pal and C would often spend time outside his busy work schedule to socialise with mum”
“R has so much enthusiasm for her role, the care that she shows is not learnt, it is clearly something she was born with, so compassionate. The residents all love her. R is only young, originally she came as a college placement, travelled after college then came right back to us looking for a health care role. A credit to our company.”
“B joined our team in June 2023. He hadn't worked in care before and was a little apprehensive to start with. He soon settled in and made a big impression on his customers going over and above to support them and delivering the highest level of person-centred care. He was able to use skills from his previous roles to support him to go the extra mile. In Jan 24 he was promoted to team lead which he has excelled at. He has continued to deliver excellent care, going over and above for customers and colleagues, nothing is too much trouble.”
“K is such a kind and caring nurse. She takes time to get to know all the residents and their families and makes them all feel unique and special. Nothing is too much trouble. She has excellent leadership skills. She cares about all the staff at the home and always has time to listen to their problems. She has high standards and is leads her team to achieve them.”
Darren Grylls submitted this short video, telling everyone how ‘gobsmacked’ he was to be nominated.
Cllr Virr added:
“It is only fitting that we recognise and celebrate this work as at some point, we or someone we love will need care and we will all expect to be treated with dignity and respect, as I know all these nominees do each day. I look forward to hearing more of these stories and I’m honoured to be a part of event in September.”
Once all shortlisting has taken place, those who have made it to the next stage will be informed and invited to the celebratory event. Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho KCVO OBE will be presenting the awards.
The Proud to Care Cornwall website has more information about working in care, and you can view the latest vacancies.