It’s not every day that a care home team is named the best in the country, but that’s exactly what happened on Friday evening for the inspiring team from Katherine & Griffiths House in Bristol, a residential home, including a dedicated dementia unit, for 49 residents.
After winning the local Care & Support West Awards in September last year, followed by the Great British Regional Care Awards in November, care home manager Leanne Thorne, and her deputy Sue Thorne, travelled to Birmingham for the national final.
At a gala event with 1,300 guests representing the Care industry from all over the UK, eleven care homes were shortlisted for the national Care Home Team of the Year award, with Katherine & Griffiths House being named the overall category winner.
Presented with the award by celebrity Vernon Kay, Leanne and Sue listened to the glowing feedback from the judges, who said: “Katherine & Griffiths House exudes energy and passion in everything they do. Their incredible ‘One Wish’ programme is a testament to their dedication, helping residents achieve their dreams and aspirations. The charity also demonstrates outstanding collaboration with the local community, forming meaningful partnerships that enhance the lives of those they support. Their commitment to making a real difference is truly inspiring.”
Care home manager Leanne said: “Absolutely everyone who works at Katherine & Griffiths House contributes to creating a truly positive, happy environment. We pride ourselves on being inclusive and on delivering the very highest standard of care, and to be recognised on a national platform for the work we do, is a wonderful feeling. But what makes this award particularly special, is that we were nominated by family members of our lovely residents.”
With celebrations planned at the home throughout the week, staff, residents and family members are all thrilled with the national win.
Betty, 102 years young, who has been a resident at Katherine & Griffiths House for eight years, said: “I’m so happy to call this my home. The staff are always kind, every day we have fun, and I’m constantly making new memories to share with my family and friends.”
Sabina Green, wellbeing team leader, said: “I’ve worked here for six years, and I absolutely love my job. Working with such lovely colleagues, residents and family members, it’s a cliché I know, but this really does feel like one big family, and being named Team of the Year is the icing on the cake.”
Deputy manager Sue Thorne said: “This is a real career highlight that is shared with our amazing and dedicated team. Collecting the award was incredibly emotional, and when we called the home to share the news, we could hear the cheers loud and clear! We all feel really passionate about working in the Care sector and to be told that you are part of a team described as ‘the best of the best’ is amazing.”
Katherine & Griffiths House is part of the Cote Charity, whose trustee is the Society of Merchant Venturers (SMV). Dr Jacqueline Cornish OBE, who chairs SMV’s Care for Older People Committee, said: “This award is so richly deserved by a caring and skilled team of individuals who have such a positive impact on the lives of older people. The award criteria really describes the Katherine & Griffiths House team to perfection!”.
News of the national award reached ITV West Country reporter Ellie Barker who, to the delight of staff and residents, visited the home with a news crew at the beginning of April. You can watch the ITV news clip here.
The Great British Care Awards criteria for the Care Team of the Year award states: This award celebrates the team that best demonstrates a shared vision and clear goals, led by a recognised and respected leader. Team members should have a clear understanding of their roles, take personal responsibility for their tasks, and foster excellent communication, cooperation, and mutual trust. The team must prioritise dignity and privacy for clients while respecting one another, maintaining high morale, and recognising each member’s unique skills. They should embody person-centred care and involve clients, carers, or relatives in service development. Commitment to learning and personal growth, effective conflict resolution, and avoiding stereotypes are essential. The team must showcase outstanding qualities that set them apart.
