An annual awards event has taken place to celebrate the dedication and commitment of care professionals in Leicester and Leicestershire.
The ceremony, held at Winstanley House in Leicester, saw 15 awards handed out at the Care Professional of the Year Awards, including overall care professional of the year.
James Hopkins of Kara Healthcare took the top honour for his incredible commitment and hard work, which has helped to revitalise morale, retain staff and raise family satisfaction.
James, who also won the Operational Staff Member of the Year Award, said: “You can bring so many magical or happy moments to people who need it the most and it’s usually the most vulnerable people that don’t ask.
“We are asked to help and support people in what could be the last few days, weeks, months or years of that person’s life, and it’s for us to make those moments the most memorable we possibly can.”
Inspired to Care, who work for Leicestershire County Council and also support Leicester City Council to promote adult social care as a career and help to retain staff, organised the awards.
Nominations were received by colleagues, families and users of services to mark the best of Leicester and Leicestershire care.
Other awards included Best Newcomer, Personal Assistant of the Year, as well as Outstanding Contribution to Social Care, which was won by Victoria Abel of Radfield Home Care, who took two awards and was nominated for her ‘unwavering dedication, compassion and professionalism to the job.’
“The stories I heard during the afternoon really highlighted the need to celebrate this special group of people.
“These awards are a reminder that compassion and dedication in social care makes great things happen and I would urge people to consider this as a career path.
“I’d also like to thank the sponsors of the event for their contributions to make sure this incredible night can take place.”
Person:Councillor Carl Abbott, county council cabinet member for adult social care
Councillor Mohammed Dawood, Leicester’s assistant city mayor for adult social care, said: “I’d like to congratulate all the hard-working staff who received awards and nominations at this excellent celebration of care professionals across Leicester and Leicestershire.
“Adult social care is a huge responsibility for councils and one we take very seriously, which is why we’re determined to invest in high-quality, well-trained staff and support their professional development throughout their careers.”
Find out more about the award winners and a career in adult social care by visiting the Inspired to Care website.