Finalists at the National Care Awards

Company news

Nov 28, 2008

Two local carers have reached the final of the National Care Awards 2008. Care UK staff Heather Joseph and Reginald Nnachetam are each down to the final four in their categories, having been nominated by the Elmstead House Home Manager, Diane Maddaford, and the home’s Administrator, Raden Mauremootoo.

Heather is a finalist for the Care Innovator award, which celebrates “a forward-thinking individual in a care home.” Reginald is a finalist for the Care Newcomer award, which is for “an exceptional new member of staff”.

Elmstead House is a modern, purpose-built nursing home in Hendon, London, providing nursing care for older people with dementia. The homely environment has been carefully designed to offer both comfort and security to residents and their families.

Heather, a Wembley resident has worked at Elmstead House as an administrator since it opened 11 years ago, and in that time has made the Admin Office the hub of the home, developing new ideas and projects for the benefit of both residents and staff. Such ideas include the creation of a cinema room, the installation of a flat screen TV in the reception area to provide information for residents and relatives, and the development of a games room for residents, relatives and staff.

Heather said: “I am overwhelmed to be shortlisted and feel proud that the care I provide to residents has been recognised by the judges. If I do win, it will be one of the proudest moments of my life and it will show other administrators that they can be innovative and creative in their job, and every job in the care home is important, not just those providing personal care.”

Reginald, from Cricklewood, joined Elmstead House over Christmas 2007, and the residents have greatly enjoyed his patience and care over the course of the year. He always goes the extra mile with the residents, whether it is taking them for walks outside, playing games at birthday parties or escorting residents to the local shops.

“I feel overjoyed to have reached the final. It gives me so much job satisfaction and encouragement to do even more. If I do win, it will be a very proud moment not just for me but for Care UK as a company, and I will feel confident about my future in mental health nursing with Care UK.”  

The National Care Awards Gala Night, when the winners will be announced, will take place on Saturday 29th November, at the Hilton London Metropole Hotel and will be hosted by Tony Robinson.