Going above and beyond

• Winner: Carol from Lane End Drive, Hampshire supported living
• Highly commended: Zoe from Whitegates. Hampshire care home

Carol received several nominations from colleagues who wanted to recognise the difference she’s made during a particularly difficult period.

Carol originally worked at a different home where the person she had supported for many years sadly passed away. Carol was on shift and did everything she could to help him. While dealing with her own grief, she continued to support their family, keeping in touch and offering practical help, even on her days off.

Not long afterwards, Carol moved to Lane End Drive. It was quite a change, going from a small, quiet service supporting one person to a busy home with 17 people and a much larger staff team.

Carol initially joined to cover shifts but made such an impression that colleagues were asking for her to become a permanent member of the team.

One nomination described the relationship she’s built with someone who can find it difficult to communicate their needs. Carol spent time getting to know the person, understanding their routines and finding out what mattered to them. She then created a personalised communication and activity board to help them make choices and become more involved in planning their day.

The person is now more confident expressing what they want and has developed a trusting relationship with Carol. Colleagues also spoke about Carol’s willingness to pick up extra shifts, share ideas and help wherever she’s needed.

Zoe Palmer from Whitegates was highly commended for the difference she’s making in her senior role. Zoe is someone people feel comfortable approaching, whether they need advice or help with a difficult situation. She works alongside the team and takes time to help colleagues develop their skills.

She’s also full of ideas for people supported at Whitegates. From organising Fun Days to planning holidays, Zoe makes sure people have opportunities to get out and enjoy themselves. She works with colleagues to set weekly goals, including helping everyone get out and about regularly.

One nomination described how Zoe came into work on her day off to take someone to visit their family. The trip took up her whole day, but she knew how important it was to him. He was delighted to see his family.

Another colleague described how Zoe helped them overcome their nerves about driving the accessible vehicles. Rather than simply telling them to give it a go, she spent time practising with them until they felt confident enough to drive them.

Her colleagues particularly appreciate the way she gives feedback, helping people learn without making them feel uncomfortable.