Rachel Kelman is a finalist in this year’s Lincolnshire Care Association (LinCA) care awards in the Frontline Leader category. She will be attending the gala award evening on 30 March 2023 at The Double Tree by Hilton, Lincoln, where the winners will be announced.

Rachel, who is Head of Care at Southfield House care home in Spalding, has worked at OSJCT since 2009.

She said: “It is such an honour to be nominated, let alone shortlisted for this award. I love what I do, it never feels like coming to work. I have a great team behind me that I am really proud to lead.”

Southfield House Home Manager, Elaine Whittle, said: “Rachel is always there for everyone, taking the lead, sharing ideas and listening to others to maximise our residents’ home life and daily care. She demonstrates that she is passionate about our residents in all that she does.

“Rachel shows clear commitment to improving person-centred care and leading our team.”

Rachel was inspired to pursue a career in care by her mum. She said: “I have always had a caring nature, I enjoy being able to help people. My Mum worked as a carer and I saw the difference she made to people and was inspired to do the same.

“It doesn’t feel like a job, we always have so much going on in the home and we get to have fun and make sure our residents enjoy each day. I enjoy working as part of a team who all want the same thing and support each other.”

Working in care complement’s Rachel’s family life. She said: “My family are very supportive. They understand how important my job is and they were proud that I was shortlisted. My children enjoy visiting the home and spending time with the residents. Over the 13 years I have worked at Southfield House I have made some very close friends with residents and colleagues, whose support helps me to balance my work and home life.”

Rachel is already an award-winner, as she received the Care Services Apprentice Award and Overall Apprentice of the Year 2021, by Lincoln College Group.