Social care 'heroes' celebrated at awards night

Dorset adult social care workers were recognised for their achievements at an awards ceremony.

More than 200 people gathered to celebrate the county's adult social care 'heroes'.

Organised by The Dorset Care Association and supported by Dorset Council, the awards recognised the 'achievements to deliver outstanding outcomes for all service users and clients'.

The awards evening, at the George Albert Hotel at Wardon Hill near Dorchester, was a black-tie event, with dinner and dancing.

Before the winners were announced, comedian Andrew White entertained guests with his funny observations on the care industry.

Anna Knight, chief executive at The Dorset Care Association, said: “It was a magical night celebrating the Dorset social care heroes.

"What an honour it was to be hosting a night for so many deserving individuals.”

Vikki Dampier, operations director for Dimensions Dorset, who attended the event, said: “It was excellent and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves."

David Towells from Red Jacket Specials Care added: “The event was an amazing night and a great team builder, it was really good to meet with colleague's from across the county face to face. Roll on 2025 Care Awards.”

The Dorset Care Association enables the collaboration between providers of all Dorset adult social care services with the council and the Integrated Care System.

It incorporates all CQC-registered providers of domiciliary care services for all adults, residential and nursing care services for all adults, care and support provision in supported living settings for adults of working age, and in extra care housing settings for older people and provides day services and day opportunities for all adults.

The association is the first point of contact for the council when considering new approaches, ventures, fee considerations or direction changes to enable collaborative working.

The award winners were:

• Nutrition & Hydration Award – Simons Team, Dimensions Dorset

• Staff Wellbeing & Welfare – Mel Torkington, Garden House Rest Home

• Excellence in Social Care Training – Lorraine Hunt, Good Oaks Home Care

• Newcomer Award – Adenike Promise, WCN Care

• Sustainability & Environmental Award – Ben Ashton, Good Oaks Home Care

• Outstanding Activity in Care Award – Karen Grant, Upton Bay Care Home

• Team of the Year – Jo Newton, Garden House Rest Home

• Digital Innovator Award – Lyn Larue, Muscliffe Nursing Home

• Best Domestic Team – Jackie, Tina & Kaew, Clarence House

• Support Worker of the Year – Evan Beddow, Windward Day Services

• Innovation in Social Care – Kelly Perry & Jo Davis, Click Together/Helix

• Unsung Hero – Scott Curtiss, UK Supported Living Services