Care group opens nominations for annual awards

NOMINATIONS are now open for the ninth annual Maria Mallaband and Countrywide Group Care Awards celebrating the work that takes place every day throughout the organisation.

The past year has been a busy one for Maria Mallaband Care Group with the opening of two new homes, the roll out of several sector-leading initiatives which are transforming life across the group, and a further enhancement of staff benefits and flexible working opportunities.

It has also been a demanding time within the sector, with the need for care home places growing, local authority funding and recruitment continuing to pose challenges, and the cost of living crisis putting staff under pressure financially.

But across the group, which has more than 80 homes up and down the UK, colleagues have brought their best selves to work every day, showing integrity, commitment and exceptional teamwork, and providing a first-class service, both those working directly alongside people living in their home, or in another capacity.

These annual awards give the MMCG family a chance to shine a light on that incredible work and celebrate and thank some of the special people who make a difference. Every single member of staff has the opportunity to be nominated in their respective category, as they rightly deserve.

Chief people officer Susan Jones said: “We’re delighted to launch this year’s awards this week – it is always incredibly uplifting and moving to hear about the wonderful things our staff members have been doing and to be able to share and celebrate that.

“With the generous support of our awards sponsors we really pull out all the stops on the night for the winners and nominees – it’s their time to shine, and a highlight of the year for all of us.”

Anyone can nominate a member of staff, whether they have someone in mind for the Home of the Year, or think they’ve spotted a worthy recipient of the Excellence in Care award. With 11 possible categories this year, judged by a selection of judges, there is an opportunity for everyone.

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony – a live, in-person gala evening – due to take place on July 20 at the Royal Armouries in Leeds.

Now in their ninth year, the awards were originally launched to recognise the hard work and efforts of the staff and the impact they have on the lives of those living in MMCG’s homes and their families.

In the past, clients, colleagues, relatives, and visitors have submitted a staggering number of nominations across all categories – and this year is expected to be no different.