Government awards recognise exceptional efforts of care sector
The launch of new social care awards provides a welcome first step towards equal recognition for the care sector.
Aimed at recognising care workers and nurses who have made an outstanding contribution to adult social care - throughout the pandemic and beyond - the new Gold and Silver Awards are designed to mirror the NHS Workforce Awards. The awards celebrate those who go over and above to provide excellent care, leadership and inspiration, and who show incredible commitment to those that they care for.
There can be no denying that the coronavirus pandemic has put those who work in the care sector and the NHS under incredible strain. They have endured and experienced circumstances that could never have been forseen, and they have borne their burdens bravely. These awards provide the first opportunity for those who work in both sectors to be recognised on an equal footing.
Exceptional efforts
We have seen many instances within our own care teams of individuals taking selfless actions to protect and support our residents over the past 18 months. Some moved into the care homes in which they work for weeks on end, others literally went the extra mile to support vulnerable members of our community, and all put others first without question or complaint. We are extremely proud of their courage and commitment, and we know that these incredible stories of fortitude are echoed across the care sector as a whole.
We're delighted that the government is now providing a way of officially recognising and celebrating the efforts of these incredible individuals.
Recognition, acknowledgement and appreciation
The Gold and Silver Awards were officially launched by Deborah Story, the government's Chief Nurse for Adult Social Care. She explained why the awards are needed:
"The pandemic has shone a light on the exemplary efforts of our dedicated social care workforce, and I am committed to ensuring we recognise the selfless hard work they do day in and day out.
"The social care workforce more than ever continues to demonstrate unwavering compassion, professionalism and dedication. Not only during the pandemic but every year.
"These individual awards recognise exceptional practice and care and rightly give recognition, acknowledgement and appreciation that those individuals deserve."
How to nominate a care worker
The Gold and Silver Awards are open to all care workers and nurses across the entire care sector, including those working in care homes and in the wider community.
There is no deadline, instead nominations can be made and awards presented throughout the year.
If you would like to nominate a care worker for these awards, you can do so by filling out the form on the government website. All nominations will be considered by a board of senior adult social care and NHS representatives, and it is expected that the first awards will be presented later this year.
We are very much looking forward to celebrating the efforts and achievements of incredible care workers across the sector, and seeing them receive the recognition they deserve.
Find out about care
To find out more about residential and community care options tailored to your needs and those of your loved ones, please call 0800 8174 990 or email [email protected].