We are delighted to announce Dementia UK as OSJCT's Charity Partner of the Year, strengthening a shared commitment to supporting people living with dementia and those closest to them.

The partnership will build on the strong dementia care already in place across OSJCT, while developing its relationship with Dementia UK, which supports its team of Admiral Nurses.

Admiral Nurses provide specialist support to people living with dementia, their families and those around them. At OSJCT, they help residents, families and colleagues better understand dementia, navigate complex situations and access the right support when it is needed.

There are currently 483 contracted Admiral Nurses working across the UK, with the majority supporting people living with dementia and their families in community and health settings. Specialist dementia nursing within social care, however, remains limited, with just 20 Admiral Nurses with a primary focus on supporting people living with dementia in care home settings. Five of these work at OSJCT, making the Trust one of only 11 care providers in the UK to have developed a dedicated Admiral Nurse team.

Angie Williams, Lead Admiral Nurse at OSJCT, who was recently recognised by Dementia UK with a 20-year long-service award, said: “Being an Admiral Nurse for 20 years is part of my identity now, and I have seen first-hand the difference that specialist dementia care can make to people. That’s why it’s so valuable that OSJCT is continuing to work with Dementia UK. The partnership gives us an opportunity to learn from one another and share expertise. Most importantly, it supports our shared aim of ensuring people living with dementia and their loved ones receive compassionate care that meets their individual needs.”

Williams and her team of Admiral Nurses have led the development of the Trust’s Dementia Care Framework, which brings together guidance, best practice and years of experience in a clear approach to supporting people living with dementia. It guides colleagues across the Trust in delivering a consistent, person-centred approach, recognising that every individual and every experience of dementia is different.

This is supported by OSJCT’s Dementia Training Pathway, which helps colleagues across all roles develop their knowledge, skills and confidence, and its Wellbeing & Dementia Accreditation, which recognises good practice within its care homes. OSJCT’s Bemerton Lodge and Old Station House both achieved accreditation in 2025/26.

Dr Hilda Hayo OBE, Chief Admiral Nurse and CEO at Dementia UK, said: "We are delighted to have been chosen as the Charity Partner of the Year for The Orders of St John Care Trust. This partnership will help us further strengthen our relationship for the benefit of residents and staff. OSJCT provides a high standard of care, creating a positive and welcoming environment for people living with dementia and their families. Admiral Nurses such as Angie have worked closely with OSJCT for many years providing specialist advice and support to both residents and staff when needed. I look forward to seeing our partnership continue to grow and make a difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.”

As part of the partnership, OSJCT has presented Dementia UK with a £2,230 donation, following fundraising for the charity at the Trust’s Leadership Conference.