Nottingham care workers scoop national awards
Two care workers from Nottingham have scooped national awards for their work supporting those hospitalised with mental health needs.
Pauline Rees and Lloyd Francis won two of the top prizes at the Cygnet achievement awards, a day of celebration for caring, dedicated and hard-working health and social care workers.
Earlier this year Pauline celebrated 50 years as a nurse. She started her training at the old Nottingham General Hospital - the current hospital, the Queen's Medical Centre, was still being built. She now works as hospital manager of Cygnet Health Care Aspen House, a rehabilitation high support mental health hospital for women.
She won the CEO Special Recognition award which honours those who have gone above and beyond throughout their career.
“I am honestly speechless, I never expected to be recognised in this way, it means a lot to me,” she said.
“I have done this job for 50 years because I love it, helping people to recover and being by their side during their most difficult days. To win this award and see how much my work is valued, it’s incredible.”
Lloyd Francis is the Team Leader at Long Eaton Day Services, which supports adults with learning disabilities and autism. He won the Integrity, Hand on Heart award which recognises those who are guided by a strong moral code, are brave to speak up and play a part in promoting open cultures.
The nomination for Lloyd read: “Lloyd is one of the most vital people I know who works at this service. He has been with the service for over 15 years and has consistently provided support to the individuals in our care. Lloyd is wholehearted in his commitment and continually goes above and beyond for this service, a dedication he has shown throughout his entire career.
“Working alongside Lloyd is a special privilege, as he exemplifies every day just how fortunate we are to support and care for the individuals we serve. No task is too small or insignificant; if it benefits the service users, Lloyd ensures it is completed with a smile on his face.
“He is always there to listen when needed. Staff trust and respond well to him, and he has built strong relationships over the years. Without Lloyd, the service wouldn't be what it is today.”
The awards took place at the Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham and recognised the individuals and teams who make outstanding contributions to health and social care. They were hosted by actress and comedian Sally Phillips, together with her son Olly, who has Downs Syndrome.
Upon receiving the award, Lloyd said: “Having worked for the company for many years I feel honoured and privileged to have been recognised for doing a job I love.”
Dr Tony Romero, Cygnet Group CEO, said: “It is always a genuine pleasure for me to hear how Cygnet staff are making an incredible difference to some of society’s most vulnerable people. The work they are doing, and the care they are providing, is having a positive impact on so many lives.
“The awards are about recognising and honouring the dedication, compassion and sheer hard work shown by staff who, no matter their role, play a vital part in the provision of patient and resident care.”