A homecare provider with branches across Cumbria held an awards ceremony for the first time to recognise and thank its workers for their hard work and passion.
Westmorland Homecare organised the event at the Lancaster House Hotel on the outskirts of Lancaster, which was attended by 130 members of its team.
“The awards ceremony was a celebration of the extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond every day to make a difference in the lives of our clients,” said Daniel Stainer, one of the company’s directors, who compered the event.
“The awards were about recognising their dedication, compassion and the profound impact they have on the people they care for.
“It was a landmark moment for our company, as we came together to celebrate the best of the best.”
Westmorland Homecare provides care to enable vulnerable and often frail people over the age of 18 to live independently in their own home.
Services include homecare, such as help with housekeeping and meal preparation, and personal care, which includes support with medication, dressing and bathing and helping them living life to the full.
The company has five branches – Penrith, South Lakeland plus Poulton, Fylde and Wyre; Preston and Lancaster and Morecambe.
The formal dress evening event began with welcoming drinks before the awards ceremony began.
There were 10 categories. Each branch manager put forward a shortlist of three members of staff for each category and then chose a branch winner.
The company directors and regional team then chose an overall winner for each category.
Each overall winner received a certificate, a crystal trophy, a bouquet of flowers and a photograph with Becky Ashmore, Westmorland Homecare’s regional quality and training manager.
The top award on the night – Outstanding contribution to social care/Lifetime achievement award – went to Barbara Knowles, a homecare assistant from the South Lakeland branch based at Kendal.
Mr Stainer said: “Barbara has worked in the care sector for 40 years, working with Westmorland Homecare since 2017.
“Her commitment to supporting others is unmatched. People describe her as reliable, trustworthy and focused on the well-being of those in their care.
“Comments from the team and clients highlight Barbara as a caring, knowledgeable presence, often referred to as the ‘mum figure’ at work. In short, she is simply brilliant!”
Other winners were:
- Newcomer of the year – Jasmin Smith (Poulton branch)
- Company ambassador – Debbie Osborne (Lancaster and Morecambe)
- Client impact award – Andrew Beadie (Poulton)
- Client feedback award – Gemma Bragg (Lancaster and Morecambe)
- Community contribution – Helen Manning (South Lakeland)
- Co-ordinator of the year – Paige Jones (Poulton)
- Outstanding practice – Evelyn Nwagbologu (Preston)
- Branch of the year – Westmorland Homecare Penrith.
Mr Stainer added: “”The work we do as a company wouldn’t be possible without the commitment of our carers. They are the heart of our organisation, bringing professionalism, empathy and a personal touch to every interaction.
“Our carers don’t just change lives; they build trust, foster independence and create meaningful connections. Their efforts ripple out, improving not just the lives of our clients but also strengthening their families and communities.”
After the awards ceremony there was a three-course meal, a DJ and dancing until the early hours.
“The event was truly lovely,” said Daniel. “Everyone was so engaged by the awards ceremony. There was a lovely atmosphere with a little bit of gentle rivalry between the branches.
“The feedback we had was fantastic and everyone is looking forward to next year’s event as we plan to make this an annual tradition, celebrating the continued excellence and dedication of our team as we strive to set new standards in care.”
He thanked the staff who were not there on the night because they were working and dedicating their time to helping their clients
