A CARE worker is celebrating after winning a national award for her dedication, passion and kindness for her colleagues and customers.
Care coordinator Michelle Watkins who works for home care provider, Bluebird Care in South Gloucestershire has been recognised for her ‘outstanding dedication’ and ‘compassion’.
She won the Team Member of the Year award at the Bluebird Care Awards after being selected from hundreds of employees across the UK - despite only joining the care sector as a carer two years ago.
During the pandemic, Michelle joined Bluebird as a care assistant visiting people in their own homes to provide care and support with daily life after leaving the hospitality sector.
“It is so special to be able to meet people’s needs, and I am proud to fulfil the needs of our community,” she said.
“I am honoured to have been recognised for my work in South Gloucestershire – I can’t believe it!
“Whilst social care is my day job, it is so much more than that for myself, my team, and our wonderful customers."
On her first day as a carer, Michelle nearly walked out of training because she wasn’t sure she could take on the new challenge.
But due to her tenacity, she discovered that she was an absolute natural – and developed strong bonds with both her colleagues and customers.
Within a year, Michelle even progressed from assistant to coordinator.
Michelle added: “Although entering the care sector was a daunting step, I have never looked back.
“I am so excited to see where this wonderful career will take me next.”
Gemma Lloyd, editor of Homecare Insight who was a judge said: “Picking a winner at the Bluebird Care awards was incredibly difficult.
“Hearing of the skill, passion, dedication, and true individuality from each finalist was inspiring.
"It was very telling of all the hard work going on.”
“Michelle encompasses all the skills any great team member should have – she is approachable, understanding, a great communicator, and supportive not only of her customers but the team around her.
“Congratulations to Michelle and all the winners!”
Bluebird Care support older people and other adults to live independent lives in the comfort of their own homes across South Gloucestershire and the surrounding areas.
The Care Quality Commission have recently warned of a trend of people leaving the care sector in favour of working in hospitality.
Bluebird Care South Gloucestershire hopes that Michelle’s inspiring story will encourage others to pursue a new career, supporting those around the local community in the comfort of their own homes.
For more information about Bluebird Care you can visit their website here - www.bluebirdcare.co.uk
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