Caring colleagues who were pictured digging through snowdrifts to reach people in need were presented with one of the top prizes in the regional finals of the Great British Care Awards.
Care co-ordinators Jenna Dubil and Amy Bardi realised that members of their teams would find it difficult to reach people in some of the most rural locations as the Beast from the East battered the region. They set off themselves, armed with spades to dig their way through deep snow.
Along with thick coats and blankets, Jenna and Amy went prepared with emergency rations of chocolate cake, in case they had to spend the night in their car.
No customer went without care and support during the blizzard and the intrepid pair were jointly named Home Care Coordinator of the Year in the Great British Care Awards celebrating excellence across the social care sector.
Jenna and Amy benefitted from the career path within Care Plus to become coordinators leading 57 home care workers. The judges recognised the value of their experience as carers, saying that:
"Their energy, passion and commitment are infectious. They have a hands-on approach and a full understanding of all aspects of the role having worked their way up the career ladder. They lead their team by listening, talking and with a real sense of fun."
Underlining the depth of quality in the service, Care Plus was among the finalists in four categories in the awards. The judges spotlighted excellent retirement living accommodation, management and the particular support given to elderly and vulnerable residents affected by the decision to demolish ageing bungalows and flats in Kinver to build new, accessible accommodation.
"I am incredibly proud of everyone at Care Plus and it was fabulous to see their hard work recognised at the Great British Care Awards," said care and support director Les Clarke. "We were really excited to see Jenna and Amy scoop one of the night’s top awards in very well-deserved success."
The Great British Care Awards celebrate the unsung heroes of social care on whom so many people and communities depend. Shortlisted nominees are interviewed by a panel of sector experts to choose finalists described as the best in social care. Winners of the regional awards progress through to the national finals in March 2019.