The Order of Malta, one of OSJCT’s sponsoring orders, 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.

The Medal of Merit is a prestigious honour awarded in recognition of outstanding service and commitment to care. The fourteen OSJCT recipients, some of whom are pictured above, were recognised for their exemplary contributions to social care, reflecting the compassion, professionalism, and dedication that lie at the heart of the Trust’s values.

The following employees received their medals from H.E. The Grand Prior of England Fra’ Max Rumney and H.E. The President of the British Association, Lady Celestria Hales during the special mass and investiture:

• Dawn Carter, Carer, Longlands, Oxford
• Dorte Chandler, General Manager, Wellford Gardens, Wheatley
• Joanne Gostelow, Head Housekeeper, Skirbeck Court, Boston
• Victoria Hawkes, Head of Care, Brookside, Melksham
• Gemma Joynes, Care Leader, Edwardstow Court Care Centre, Stow-on-the-Wold
• Carol Munkonge, Care Leader, Townsend House, Oxford
• Amanda Palfrey, General Manager, Goodson Lodge, Trowbridge
• Olga Salnikova, Document Controller, Operations Centre, Oxford
• Debbie Scammell, Home Manager, Marden Court, Calne
• Paul Willis, Head of Transactional Finance, Eyre Court, Lincoln
• John Woolley, Accounts Payable and Banking Manager, Eyre Court, Lincoln

Employees who were unable to attend the ceremony in person but were also awarded Medals of Merit included: 

• Sam Emm, Deputy Manager, Willowcroft, Salisbury
• Elizabeth Jones, Cook, Watersmead, Westbury
• Hayley Taylor, deputy Manager, Millbrook Lodge, Gloucester

Laura Allam, Head of Reward and Recognition at The Orders of St John Care Trust said: "We are incredibly proud of our colleagues who received the Medal of Merit. This recognition not only honours their exceptional dedication but also highlights the vital role of social care professionals across the country. Their unwavering compassion and service make a real difference in the lives of residents every day, and we’re delighted to see their contributions recognised by such a distinguished organisation."

Philippa Leslie, Director of Communications for the Order in Britain, added: “The Order is so pleased to have honoured the excellent work and caring approach of the OSJCT staff, recognising their contribution to the happiness and wellbeing of the residents.”