A SELFLESS carer said she was overwhelmed and speechless after coming out on top at this year's health and social care awards.
Kate Lockwood was shocked to collect not just one but two awards at this year's Worcestershire Health and Social Care Awards.
The carer from Sanctuary Care's Westmead Residential Care Home bagged the Care Hero and the Outstanding Contribution to the Industry award.
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People from across the health and social care sector came together to celebrate those who have gone above and beyond for our loved ones.
Ms Lockwood said: "I am just really overwhelmed, and I don't know what to say.
"I never thought I would get something like this as I saw everyone as a winner in this category.
"This award is for my residents."
During her three years in the industry, Ms Lockwood has tailored and arranged special experiences for different residents including netball tournaments, motorbike meet and greets, and the home's very own version of Glastonbury called ‘Glastonmead’.
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For one resident, who now has dementia and worked in a post office, Mr Lockwood handmade a mini post office with a desk, computer, trays and envelopes for them to enjoy.
Ms Lockwood was one of 11 people who had won awards at the ceremony.
The winner of the Domiciliary Care Worker Award, Sonya McCormick from Bluebird Care, said she was shocked to be recognised for the work she does as often people in the industry can be thought of as "just carers".
She added: "It feels amazing, it genuinely took me by surprise. I was just surprised to have been nominated."
People arrived at the black-tie event at the Abbey Hotel in Malvern and wined and dined before listening to the inspirational stories of those who have worked tirelessly in the sector.
Regional editor Stephanie Preece said: "It has been a fantastic evening and an honour to share the stories of so many who have worked tirelessly in the health and social care sector for us and our loved ones.
"Although there are only 12 winners tonight, every finalist should be immensely proud of their hard work and are still winners.
"I would like to thank our sponsors for the night, particularly the University of Worcester."
The winners of Worcestershire Health and Social Care Awards 2023:
The GP Practice of the Year: Woverley Surgery
The Mental Health Award: Jacob Thompson, West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust
The Adolescent and Child Health Care Award: The Feeding Trust
The Palliative/Eng of Life Care Award: Acorn's Children Hospice
The Health Care Team Award: Primrose Hospice
The Oral Healthcare Professional Award: Droitwich Dental Studio
The Dementia Carer Award: Kay Ring from Blossom House (Blossom Care)
The Care Home Worker Award: Katrina Evans from Perry Manor Care Home
The Domiciliary Care Worker Award is Sonya McCormick from Bluebird Care
The Good Nurse Award is Karen Hassell from Corbet Medical Practice
The Care Hero Award: Kate Lockwood
Outstanding Contribution: Kate Lockwood
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