Care UK colleagues are eagerly anticipating the Berkshire Care Awards, where they have been shortlisted in three categories.
The Berkshire Care Awards are a celebration of excellence in adult social care across Berkshire, highlighting the commitment, dedication, and achievements of care staff across the county.
Adriano Goncalves De Carvalho, head chef at Care UK’s Newbury Grove, has been shortlisted for the Care Home Chef Award. Dedicated to supporting residents’ nutritional wellbeing, Adriano has created a system which tracks the progress, preferences, and dislikes of each resident. This includes tracing residents’ dietary requirements and whether or not they require puréed foods. This system is used both in the kitchen, and to assist with clinical needs. The kitchen team make every effort to creatively pipe the pureed foods, making them look and taste as close to the unmodified dish as possible. Adriano said: “My inspiration and drive at work is to see the smiles on residents’ faces, and to do this we really get to know each of them and cater to their preferences.”
Sandra Vilaca, activities lead at Newbury Grove, is shortlisted for the Activity Co-ordinator Award. Sandra has been with the home since it opened eight years ago, and by working closely with activities colleagues and members of other teams, she has instilled a positive environment where residents have the freedom to pursue interests and activities that fulfil their lives. The result is a plethora of clubs ranging from reading to gardening, and activities such as bingo and pub quizzes. Sandra said: “All I want is for residents to be happy and enjoy life to the fullest.”
Shirley Summerbell, home manager at Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, is shortlisted for the Leadership Award. Shirley is committed to encouraging the development of home champions in specific areas, such as dementia, medication, dysphagia and end-of-life care. A number of team members have already been promoted within the home – with Shirley’s former deputy home manager being developed and supported in becoming the home manager of another Care UK home. Shirley said: “The more we have, the more knowledge we have, which in turn leads to better care and a greater sense of job satisfaction.”
The winners of the Berkshire Care Awards will be announced on Thursday 25 April at Cantley House Hotel in Wokingham.
