Care UK Celebrates Recognition At The National Care Awards

Care UK colleagues are celebrating their success at the 2024 National Care Awards after taking home two trophies, including the prestigious award for Care Home Group of the Year (over 10 settings).

Shona Bradbury, home manager for Appleby House in Epsom, won the award for Dementia Care Manager of the Year in recognition of the outstanding support she provides to those living with dementia.

Care UK’s consistently high care quality ratings – which have not dropped below 91% this year – impressed the judges. The organisation’s dedication to, and growth in, resident satisfaction was also noted. During the year’s resident surveys, 97% of residents agreed that their home was a ‘safe place to live’, and 95% of them went on to confirm, ‘staff treat me with kindness, dignity and respect’. These strong sentiments, both of which are a percentage point increase on the previous financial year, are a direct result of Care UK’s continued investment in and focus on their Fulfilling Lives approach to care and quality.

Shona Bradbury is a leader in her field and is dedicated to supporting those living with dementia. A keen patron of arts and music, Shona has gone above and beyond to support creative practices for residents in her time at Appleby House – ranging from hosting art workshops (and a pop-up gallery) to supporting residents to record music. She has also established strong links with the local community, including working closely with Age Concern and local charity Love Me, Love My Mind. These connections flourish with Appleby’s Cosy Cafe, which opens once a month to the local community and will continue to grow in the summer months with the addition of the home’s new allotment.

Andrew Knight, Chief Executive Officer of Care UK, said:
“It is an honour for our teams to be recognised by the National Care Awards for the caring and compassionate work they do.

“They are dedicated to care quality, community, and innovation. All of these together mean that we are able to best support residents to lead fulfilling lives.”

“I am extremely proud of the way Care UK encourages colleagues to continue to learn and push boundaries within their specialisms – something that Shona’s win has exemplified this evening.”

“Thank you to all of our talented teams in Care UK. This achievement, and so many others throughout the year, is down to you.”