Staff and residents at Katherine & Griffiths House in Westbury-on-Trym are celebrating their new accolade: Care Home of the Year, following the annual awards ceremony hosted by Care & Support West. The regional event honours outstanding achievements and dedication in the field of compassionate social care.
Having been named a finalist in four categories, 18 members of the Katherine & Griffiths House team attended the gala evening on 3rd November at Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol, including Sabina Green from the Wellbeing Team, who was a finalist in the Activities Coordinator of the Year category; and Deputy Manager, Sue Thorne, who was a finalist in the Rainbow Heart Outstanding Contribution to Social Care category, which Sue won in 2022.
Also in attendance was Martin Brooks, Administrator for Katherine & Griffiths House, who was announced the winner of the Office Support Worker of the Year Award. Martin said: “I couldn’t believe it! When my name was read out, our team went crazy, cheering my name as I walked up to the stage; and on Monday morning, my lovely colleagues had plastered my computer with post-it notes telling me how proud they are to work with me. I can’t express how much this means, I’ve had so many hugs from colleagues, residents and their family members, I feel really appreciated and valued.”
Photo caption: Martin Brooks collects his award, Office Support Worker of the Year, from Alethea Mizen, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Care and Support West.
The final and most prestigious award of the evening was for the title ‘Care Home of the Year’, with the whole Katherine & Griffiths House team in attendance called up to the stage to accept the award. Care Home Manager Leanne Thorne said: “We were all really nervous because this award category means so much to us. Personally, I have wanted to win this award my entire career and finally it’s happened, here at Katherine & Griffiths House. The award recognises not only the fantastic calibre of our team, but also the wonderful residents. I feel privileged and proud to be part of such a special community.”
Caroline Duckworth, Treasurer of the Society of Merchant Venturers which is the Trustee to the Cote Charity and responsible for Katherine & Griffiths House, said: “We are fortunate to have such a brilliant team at Katherine & Griffiths House. Their devotion to improving the quality of life for every resident shines through on a daily basis. The home is genuinely a happy place to live and work and I’m thrilled that the team has been recognised in this year’s awards.”
David Smallacombe, CEO of Care & Support West, said: “Once again the Care Awards 2023 was an exceptional celebration of the dedication and excellence that defines the social care sector. It’s truly inspiring to witness the remarkable achievements of those who make a difference in the lives of countless individuals. This event showcased the best of our field and reinforced our commitment to compassionate social care. I am immensely proud of everyone who contributed to its success.”
