Twelve employees have been honoured with prestigious Medals of Merit by the British Association of the Order of Malta (BASMOM) in recognition of their outstanding dedication to residents and commitment to care.

The Medal of Merit recognises exceptional service in care and is awarded to individuals who demonstrate compassion, professionalism and a commitment to improving the lives of others. 

H.E. The President of the British Association, Lady Celestria Hales and the Chancellor of the Grand Priory of England Fra’ Richard Berkley-Matthews, presented the awards during a special mass and investiture at The Brompton Oratory in London on St John’s Day, Wednesday 24 June. 

Recipients included: Sarah Coates, Head of Organisational Development; Valerie McCoy, Learning and Development Advisor; Sarah Smith, Assistant Director Health and Safety; Kelly Allen, Home Manger, Isis House; Emma Cottle, Administration Assistant, Langford View; Sirlene Heenan, Administration Assistant, Isis House; Elaine Eadle, Administration Assistant, Longlands; Becky Holloway, Deputy Domiciliary Care Manager, Moorside Place; Stephaine Tate, Administration Assistant, Skirbeck Court; Kerry Brooks, Deputy Home Manager, Edwardstow; Kath Finch, volunteer, Edwardstow; Dean Palfrey, Home Manager, Athelstan House.

Pictured above at the investiture are: Dean Palfrey, Sarah Smith, Sarah Coates, Chairman of Trustees Mark Everall, Kelly Allen, Elaine Eadle, Becky Holloway, Sirlene Heenan. 

Laura Allam, Head of Reward and Recognition at The Orders of St John Care Trust, said: "The compassion and commitment shown by our employees make a meaningful difference to people’s lives every day. These awards shine a spotlight on the remarkable impact of social care professionals, and we are thrilled to see our colleagues acknowledged for the exceptional care they provide.”

The Order of Malta is one of OSJCT’s sponsoring orders and has been dedicated to caring for those in need since the Middle Ages. Today, the Order continues its mission by providing medical, social and humanitarian aid in most countries around the world.

Philippa Leslie, Director of Communications for the Order in Britain, added: “The Order is so pleased to honour the excellent work and caring approach shown by OSJCT employees. Their work contributes greatly to residents’ happiness and wellbeing, and these medals celebrate their outstanding achievement.”