Heroes of caring professions recognised at regional awards
The work of the region’s professional carers and care sector organisations is set to be honoured at the first Outstanding Care Awards for Devon and Cornwall.
Launched by Kelly Harper and Kat Green, Founders and Partners of the South West based Care Network Group, the awards will showcase and celebrate the exceptional individuals and organisations dedicated to caring for many of the region’s most vulnerable people.
Devon County Council, Torbay Council and Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust are amongst organisations backing the initiative.
Kat Green, co-chair of the network, said: “Thousands of people and innovative practices within our communities are making hugely positive differences to people’s lives. Too often their expertise and dedication goes unrecognised. The awards will celebrate exceptional care and best practice across the region.”
Kat has worked in the care sector since the age of 14, starting off as a tea girl in a care home and then going on to become one of the youngest registered care home managers in England when she was just 21. She has now worked in the care sector for 17 years including home care, care homes and support services.
Fellow co-chair Kelly Harper, who has worked across health and social care roles in hospitals, residential homes and the community, added: “It’s vital that we give recognition to those who work under some very difficult and challenging conditions. The Care Network Group is already working with hundreds of people at organisations in the region. Now the Outstanding Care awards will honour some of the most exceptional people, initiatives and contributions across the caring profession throughout Devon and Cornwall.”
Categories for the annual awards include Unpaid Carer, Community Carer, Care Newcomer and Outstanding Team of the Year, the Dementia Initiative Care, Commitment to Training, Champions and People’s awards.
Nominations are now being received for the awards, ahead of the deadline on Friday April 27. The ceremony for those shortlisted will be held at the Livermead Hotel in Torquay on Friday June 8. Debra Searle MVO, MBE who shot to fame after rowing the Atlantic ocean solo, will host the awards.
Plymouth-born Debra is a unique and inspiring individual who achieved a first class honours degree, launched four companies and won Gold World Championship medals with the Great Britain Dragon Boat Racing team.
She has presented over 40 programmes for the BBC, has had two books published and became the youngest ever trustee of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Her Majesty The Queen has recognised Debra on two occasions, in 2002 with an MBE and in 2014 with an MVO.
Debra said: “The South West is renowned for being a caring community, where we look out for each other, as families and friends in our villages, towns and cities across the region. The care sector is absolutely fundamental to maintaining people’s quality of life, providing care and support, respite for families and of course a major employer. I’m delighted to be hosting the inaugural event.”
For more information abouit the Care network Group and to enter the awards go to www.outstandingcareawards.com
