Princess Christian Care Centre Team Member Wins Prestigious Award For Outstanding Dementia Care

A dedicated team member at a Woking-based Care Home, part of family-run group Nellsar, has been awarded the esteemed title of Care Worker of the Year (Care/Nursing Home) at the Surrey Care Association Awards 2025 – a mark of excellence in the care sector across the region.

Yessica Afonso Baute, who has worked at Princess Christian Care Centre since 2019, was honoured for her exceptional dedication, compassion and person-centred approach, particularly in her role within the Home’s complex dementia care unit.

Working in the Bisley unit, which supports residents with advanced dementia and high care needs, Yessica has become known as a calm, intuitive and grounding presence – someone who consistently goes above and beyond to improve the lives of those around her.

Yessica said: “It means a lot to be recognised like this. Dementia care can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Supporting our residents is something I feel deeply passionate about and I’m grateful every day to be part of such a caring and dedicated team.”

Speaking about Yessica’s achievement, Mario Taherian, Home Manager at Princess Christian Care Centre, said:
“We’re so incredibly proud of Yessica. She brings kindness, calm and professionalism to everything she does, and her dedication to our residents, particularly those with complex needs, is inspiring.

“Her award recognises the breadth of what she brings to her role – from introducing tailored therapy techniques, to supporting new team members, to staying beyond her shifts to ensure residents are settled and comfortable. Her actions truly embody Nellsar’s values and it’s a real pleasure to see her recognised in this way.”