Local heroes have been celebrated for their inspirational achievements within the care industry and to recognise them for their efforts during what is a “hugely challenging time.”
An awards ceremony honouring adult social care professionals was hosted and organised by Inspired to Care, a Leicestershire County Council team, which promotes the work of care professionals whilst encouraging people to consider employment in the care industry.
The winners were recognised for having a variety of success stories, such as their dedication and service to others, or for overcoming personal difficulty. This included Julie Rudd (from Vista Care Homes), who scooped both the Lifetime Achievement Award and Care Professional of the Year Award after 45 years in the sector.
“I am absolutely thrilled! It’s amazing, I just can’t believe it!” she said of the honour, which was presented late last month at Leicester Racecourse in Oadby.
Steve Payne, Director of Care and Services, said of Julie: “I am so proud of Julie, these awards are so well deserved. Throughout her career she has worked tirelessly putting the needs of her residents and staff first.”
Councillor Radford, county council cabinet member for adults and communities, was present at the event. She said: “Care is an essential part of society because no matter what, we always need to lean on each other. That’s truer than ever with the sector under immense pressure to deliver throughout a cost-of-living crisis. But I hope with this event people can see our appreciation for care professionals, that they’re recognised and commemorated as a real force for good. This is a career path that can be hugely rewarding.”
Leicestershire County Council’s Inderjit Lahel, Assistant Director for Strategic Commissioning, and Leicester City Council’s Kate Galoppi, Director of Adult Social Care & Commissioning, helped to present awards to the winners and to relay their inspiring stories.
Deputy city mayor for social care and anti-poverty, Cllr Sarah Russell, said: “We all recognise what a hugely challenging time it is to be working in social care at the moment. I’m so proud of the talented and dedicated professionals we have in Leicester and Leicestershire who continue to put people first and uphold high standards of care. Congratulations to everyone who was nominated and the winners at the Inspired to Care event.”
Care professionals in a variety of roles were celebrated to reflect the many different experiences available within the care industry. The full list of winners is as follows:
Support Professional of the Year
Tracey Donnelly
Learning Disability Professional of the Year
Jane Copperwheat
Palliative Care Professional of the Year
Michelle Colbourne
Care Leader of the Year
Lisa Tuckley
Mental Health Professional of the Year
Paddi Jo Waldron
Best Newcomer to Social Care
Kathy Hillcoat
Volunteer of the Year
Nazir Kassam
Lifetime Achievement
Julie Rudd
Inspired to Care Member of the Year
Grey Ferrers Care Home
Care Professional of the Year
Julie Rudd
