The Employee Awards, which have taken place for more than 20 years and celebrate ‘shining stars’, long services and qualifications gained were hosted at Hatherley Manor Hotel and were attended by homes from across Gloucestershire.

At the awards, Jessica Scott won The Trust Efficiency and Development Award. Virginia Avella was named a finalist in the Exceptional Dedication to Caring category. Laura Legg was also a finalist in the Personal Development Award.

Jessica is the Bursar at Grace Care Centre and received her award because of the progress she has made individually and for the home during her time in the role. Jess is someone the team can rely on and look up to as an example. The work that Jess has done to ensure new starters receive a thorough induction and great welcome was also mentioned at the awards ceremony.

Virginia is a Housekeeper at Grace Care Centre and received recognition for her natural caring instincts and compassion at the awards. Virginia is popular amongst the team and residents. She has immense pride in her work and is admired for the dedication she shows in the role. Virginia is planning to train as a carer as she wishes to support the team and residents further in the coming months.

Laura is a Care Assistant at Grace Care Centre and received recognition for her desire to learn and progress since she joined the team from the education sector during the pandemic in 2020. The knowledge she has built up over time has resulted in Laura providing training to other new starters – including at other OSJCT homes. Laura has also recently completed her training as a Care Leader and continues to take on new challenges with her positive can-do attitude.

Reflecting on the accomplishment of her team, the Home Manager at Grace Care Centre, Mel, said: “I am so proud of all of the nominations made for our colleagues here at Grace Care Centre, and with strong competition Jess, Laura and Virginia made it through as finalists. Laura within the Personal Development category, Virginia within Exceptional Dedication to Caring, and Jess within the Trust Efficiency and Development Award. I am so delighted, and so proud, on behalf of Grace that Jess also won her category and value immensely our amazing team! Well done to Jess, Laura, and Virginia!”

Chief Executive, Dan Hayes, spoke at the ceremony to praise all the winners and said:

“We are here to recognise some of the amazing people that bring our Trust values to life and to acknowledge their outstanding effort and commitment to the Trust. Whether you are an Awards finalist, a long service employee or have earned a qualification through the year, I applaud you. You, as our employees and volunteers in our services and central offices, demonstrate a special mix of compassion and energy along with individual skills and expertise. Every one of you contributes to making OSJCT a special place to live and work. Thank you all for everything you do”.