The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) which runs care homes all over England and employ 4,800 staff, have announced their annual ‘Shining Stars Employee Awards’ for 2020.
A number of Lincolnshire care home workers have been recognised for their outstanding work in a difficult year.
After a shortlist of 129 finalists, the winners have now been announced.
The Trust operate 15 care homes across Lincolnshire and among the winners are, Julie McGrath from Grantham, who won Activities Coordinator of the Year, and Andrew Saunders who won Unsung Hero of the Year.
Each care home held a small staff-only presentation and celebration, due to the current Covid-19 restrictions.
Victoria Wood, who works for Apple Trees home in Grantham, was delighted to receive the Carer of the Year award.
She said: “It has been very humbling to have been nominated and awarded Carer of the Year.
“Coming to work with all the residents in OSJCT Apple Trees does not really feel like work. It is the most rewarding employment I have ever taken and just being able to comfort and care for the ladies and gentlemen within our care setting is reward enough.
“I have learnt so much being part of the Apple Trees team and I would like to thank everyone that has mentored me and nominated me. It is such an honour to be a part of The Order of St John Care Trust.
“Seeing the smiles on the residents’ faces, is my favourite part of the role. You are knowing you make a difference to their everyday lives.”
Andrew Saunders from Gregory House home in Grantham, joined the organisation in 2016.
He has won the Unsung Hero award, for being a great handyman and giving time during his days off to run activities for residents, whilst also selling crafts to raise money for the home’s amenities fund.
He said: “It has been a difficult year so far, but receiving this award makes it all worthwhile.
“It is great to be given the opportunity to be able to use my creative skills with the residents alongside carrying out my daily tasks.”
Caroline Dunagan, OSJCT Area Operations Director and a member of the judging panel, said: “I would like to thank the winners for their wonderful contribution and congratulate them on winning these awards
“It is so important to celebrate and recognise the wonderful achievements of colleagues from across Lincolnshire, each and everyone have gone out of their way to improve the lives of those living in our homes.
“We absolutely appreciate and value their contribution.”
A full list of the award winners from Lincolnshire is:
- Victoria Wood, Carer of the Year, Apple Trees, Grantham
- Nishamol Thomas, Nurse of the Year, Beckside, North Hykeham
- Julie McGrath, Activities Coordinator of the Year, Apple Trees, Grantham
- Kate Banks, Newcomer of the Year, Boultham Park House, Lincoln
- Susan Stern, Hospitality Award, Boultham Park House, Lincoln
- Julie Graves, Volunteer of the Year, Ermine House, Lincoln
- Andrew Saunders, Unsung Hero of the Year, Gregory House, Grantham
- Anna Lewkowicz, Leader of the Year, Gregory House, Grantham
- Tracy Pattle, Office Support Employee of the Year, Hartsholme House, Lincoln
- Olivia Wallis, Young Carer of the Year, Patchett Lodge, Holbeach
- Shelly Perry, Nigel Stourton Employee of the Year Award, Whitefriars, Stamford
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