Care home searches for Southampton local heroes

A new care home in Southampton is asking the community to nominate local heroes who could be rewarded with a cash prize.

Care UK’s The Wickets, on Banister Road, which is set to open its doors in February 2026, is searching for people or organisations in the local area who strive to make a positive impact and create promising change to their community, friends and family. 

The worthy winner of the competition will receive £300 for their local heroism and will be presented with the funds at the care home’s grand launch event, where they will be invited as a special VIP guest. 

Pooja Dhoot, Home Manager at The Wickets, said: “Everyone knows an unsung hero – it may be your supportive parent, your helpful neighbour or your thoughtful friend. No matter who it is, they should all be celebrated for selfless character.

“Ahead of our grand launch at The Wickets, we want to say thank you to those people who consistently go above and beyond in our community – whether they’re a volunteer at a local charity, a leader at a community group or simply a friend who always goes the extra mile. We appreciate everyone who makes our local area better.

“We’re inviting locals to share their story, so we can say thank you with a well-deserved gift. We can’t wait to read all the incredible and heart-warming stories!”

Those wishing to nominate a local hero can do so by visiting https://www.careuk.com/Local-hero-competition before 11:59pm on 11^th December and explaining in 100-400 words why their nominee deserves to be rewarded.

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, The Wickets is expected to welcome the first residents in February 2026 and will provide full-time residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care, for up to 80 older people. 

The home will feature secure and wheelchair-friendly landscaped outdoor space, including sensory gardens, water features and seating, to allow residents to spend quality time outdoors. The layout of the building will be configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities. When complete, The Wickets will have its own cinema room, café and hair and beauty salon, among other luxury facilities.