Bluebird Care Newark and Sherwood staff rewarded for going that extra mile

A home care company has celebrated the dedication of staff with an awards ceremony.

Bluebird Care Newark and Sherwood honoured the fantastic efforts of its team with a set of internal awards.

Despite the challenges caused by the pandemic, the home care team has continued to deliver exceptional care and support to members of the community.

To recognise the extraordinary contributions made by Bluebird Care over the course of the year, the team organised a number of awards, including carer of the year, colleague of the year, reward for care friends, and Santa’s little helper.

The carer of the year award was first introduced last year and returned once again. It gives customers an opportunity to nominate the care assistant they felt made a real difference to their year, and on this occasion Sharon Copeland was triumphant.

She joined the home care provider in February 2018 and has become a highly-valued team member to both customers and colleagues.

Sharon said: “It’s great to be named carer of the year. I always try my best to make our customers feel as special as possible. I am also aware that this award was decided by the very people we care for every single day which is extra special.

“Caring for somebody is a big responsibility and extremely personal. Knowing that my efforts are appreciated is fantastic.”

One customer’s daughter said: “Sharon is totally reliable, very easy to get on with. I have complete confidence in her and never worry about mum if I know Sharon is there. She is just brilliant.”

The team also had an opportunity to nominate their team-mates for the colleague of the year award.

Jade Harrison, who has shown great progress and commitment since joining the team in July 2016, was named the first recipient of this award. Since arriving Jade has developed her skills, completing her level two health and social care assessment, and is always going the extra mile for her customers.

Alice Baines earned the reward for care friends award and Reece Ludlam was named winner of the Santa’s little helper award.

All of the winners received a certificate and an experience gift voucher which can be used for a personal pamper or shared with their families.