Over 150 carers recognised
Nominations from the people they support in their own homes has seen over 150 carers recognised for their efforts in 2023.
A record number of carers received nominations from customers of Caremark Redcar and Cleveland, and they were presented with a certificate and medal at the annual carer of the year awards.
Given the number of staff nominated, the awards took place over three days in Redcar, Guisborough and Loftus.
Each member of staff had their nomination read out to them and all the nominations, were then used to determine the overall winners in the threemain areas covered by Caremark – East Cleveland, Guisborough/Middlesbrough and Redcar. There were also other special prizes awarded.
The East Cleveland Carer of the Year Award went to Michelle Rispin, who received seven nominations from the people she cares for. Michelle only became a carer in March 2023.
One said: “I cannot fault Michelle at all. There is nothing she won’t do for me. She always knows when I am not right and is willing to go that extra mile day in and day out.”
Michelle said: “I spent my whole career in education before deciding to be a carer and now I wouldn’t change it for the world. I was amazed when my name was read out and there was more than one tear!”
The Guisborough/Middlesbrough Carer of the Year Award went to Kevin Hewitt, who received five nominations. This is the second consecutive year that Kevin has won the award.
One of the people who nominated him said: “Kevin has been an immensely loyal carer. Thoughtful and considerate, always willing to go beyond the call of duty. He is always cheerful and been a good companion in the recent loss of my wife.”
Kevin, who has worked for Caremark for ten years, said: “Winning it once was amazing but for a second time is incredible. It’s so nice to be appreciated in this way.”
The Redcar Carer of the Year Award went to Michelle Burr, who received five nominations.
One of the people who nominated her said: “Michelle is brilliant. She is very caring, helpful and funny. She is always happy and like a little ray of sunshine and are always happy to see her.”
Michelle said: “When my nominations were read out it, it made me feel proud to be able to deliver quality care our customers deserve. I wouldn’t be without my job. I absolutely love it.”
Michelle, Kevin and Michelle all received a trophy, certificate and gift for winning their awards.
Caremark Redcar and Cleveland Care Manager Danielle Laverick said: “Our carer awards are always one of the highlights of the year and it was great to be able to reward so many of our staff for their hard work and dedication throughout 2023.”