A care home in Westbury on Trym is celebrating after winning a national award.
Katherine & Griffiths House won the Care Home Team of the Year at the Great British Care Awards.
Manager Leanne Thorne and her deputy Sue Thorne received the accolade at a gala event in Birmingham in front of an audience of 1,300.
Receiving the award from 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.”
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.”
Sue added: “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.”
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.”
The home, which includes a dedicated dementia unit, has 49 residents.
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!”