Suffolk Care assistant wins national award

A Lowestoft care worker is celebrating winning a national care award after joining the profession only two years ago.

Care and Support Assistant, Stephen Arrowsmith, who works at Sanctuary Supported Living’s Clover Court in Lowestoft, won the Care Newcomer Award at the national finals of the Great British Care Awards.

Clover Court is a Care Quality Commission (CQC) Outstanding-rated supported housing with care service for people with physical disabilities. In early 2020 Stephen joined the team in a role which was a complete career change. He previously worked as a chef, but now uses that experience to support residents’ skills in the kitchen. This together with his hard work and dedication in caring for residents, Stephen impressed the award judges at the East of England regional finals last year before going on to win the national award at grand final ceremony, which took place at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham on Friday 18 March.

Stephen was joined at the ceremony by the other Sanctuary Supported Living finalists: Frontline Leader nominee, Samantha McCrindle and members of the team from Victoria Road in Hartlepool, who were regional winners in the Putting People First/Personalisation award category.

He was presented with his award by broadcaster and journalist, Kate Garraway, whose own journey caring for her Covid-hit husband Derek, has been the subject of a recent documentary and book.

The judges said; “Stephen has demonstrated that he regularly goes above and beyond for the people in his care. As a newcomer to the profession, it is clear to see the joy that it has brought to Stephen personally, he truly came alive when recalling his experience and aspirations. Keep doing what you are doing and bringing laughter and support to people Stephen, you are making such a difference to the lives of the people that you so lovingly support.”

David Perkins, Local Service Manager at Clover Court, said; “I’m overjoyed to see Stephen receive the richly deserved recognition for his work with the residents. Time with him is always well-spent and he is an invaluable member of the team.”

Sara Keetley, Sanctuary Supported Living’s Operations Director, added: “Congratulations to Stephen, we’re so proud of him and delighted that he’s won the national accolade. I’d also like to congratulate the team at Victoria Road and Samantha for getting to the national finals, as well as our regional finalists too. Your success in coming this far is testament to the hard work and passion that our teams have for providing person-centred care and support every day.”