Exceptional paid care workers from across Redcar and Cleveland have been recognised at this year’s The Caring Kind Champion Awards, celebrating the dedication, compassion and professionalism shown by those working in the care sector.
The awards recognise paid care workers who go above and beyond to make a difference to the lives of others. Winners and runners-up were honoured across four categories: Rising Star, Young Carer of the Year, Unsung Hero and Lifetime Achievement.
The winners and runners-up were celebrated during a special event at the Mayor’s Parlour on Wednesday, 14 October.
Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award recognises care workers with less than three years' experience who are already making an exceptional difference.
The award was won by Grace McPherson from Clover Group.
From a young age, care has been embedded in Grace’s life. At just 19 years old, Grace was praised for her remarkable ability to build relationships and support people to develop confidence, communication skills and independence. She has incredible attention to detail and a talent to observe, understand and connect with people so that the person feels heard, respected and safe.
Grace has helped people achieve goals, including helping a non-verbal individual communicate for the first time and supporting others to develop everyday life skills and confidence.
Runner-up Keith Hewitt from Caremark was nominated for his dedication to clients and colleagues alike. Since joining the organisation less than two years ago, Keith has become known for supporting clients to attend concerts and community events, fundraising for local causes and mentoring new members of staff.
Young Carer of the Year Award
The Young Carer of the Year Award celebrates care workers aged 25 and under who have shown exceptional commitment to those they support.
The award was presented to Alannah Adams of Housing 21's Aldaniti Court.
Alannah has demonstrated incredible patience, kindness and compassion in her work with residents, particularly those living with dementia. She takes the time to build trusting relationships with residents and regularly goes beyond her role to support activities and bond with the people she cares for by sharing stories, jokes and being the companion they need in their lives.
The runner-up was Erin Smith from BJP Home Support. Since joining the organisation in 2023 with no previous experience in care, Erin has developed into a valued member of the team, continually expanding her skills while supporting clients and colleagues alike.
Unsung Hero Award
The Unsung Hero Award recognises those whose quiet, consistent excellence touches the lives of those around them, without looking for recognition.
This year's winner was Carly Smith from Clover Group.
Carly was recognised for creating a respite service that has transformed the lives of families across the area. Identifying a need for trusted, personalised respite care, she worked tirelessly to establish a welcoming environment where individuals can build independence, confidence and life skills while giving family carers valuable time to rest and recharge.
Sophie Craddy from BJP Home Support was selected as a runner-up for how she consistently goes beyond expectations, building genuine relationships with those she supports, treating them with dignity, patience and respect and, even giving up her own time to ensure they are safe and comfortable.
Lifetime Achievement Award
The Lifetime Achievement Award honours care workers who have dedicated more than a decade of service to caring for others and have made a lasting impact in their communities.
The award was won by Shirley Swales from BJP Home Support.
Shirley has 23 years of outstanding service. Beginning her career as a carer in 2003 before progressing to senior carer, she has supported almost 1,000 residents, reassured more than 2,000 family members and helped train and mentor over 250 members of staff.
Her nomination highlighted her dedication and resilience as she continued to support others while undergoing treatment for a serious health condition and adapting to major changes within the care sector.
Runner-up Donna Brittain from Olam Care Services continues to combine her role as care manager with hands-on caring responsibilities, providing support to clients, families and colleagues alike. Alongside her professional role, she is heavily involved in community and charity fundraising initiatives, regularly giving her time to support good causes and local events.
Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, Cllr Ceri Cawley said: “It was a privilege to take part in this award ceremony and celebrate those who make such a difference to the lives of people across our communities. Care workers provide far more than practical care and support, they offer kindness, companionship, dignity and reassurance to some of our most vulnerable residents. Everyday, they help people maintain their independence, remain connected to their families and communities and continue living safely and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible.”
Cabinet Member for Adults, Cllr Lisa Robson said: “The support provided by our care workers is given to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, usually during the most challenging periods of their lives. This event was about recognising and celebrating those individuals who go the extra mile every single day. Every nominee should be incredibly proud of their achievements, and, once again, this year it was really hard to choose from these amazing nominations. I would like to thank all providers, colleagues, families and friends who took the time to nominate somebody. Taking the opportunity to recognise these people and share their inspiring stories showcases our incredible care system and the extraordinary people who work in it.”