Women who care with a passion
Reporter: Andrew Rudkin, Gillian Potts
Date published: 29 September 2011
THREE women who make a huge difference to the lives of others have been short-listed for accolades in the Great British Care Awards.
Oldham-based care professionals Amanda Looseley, Rebecca Sharrocks and Janet Hilton were described as unsung heroes at a judging day at Blackpool’s Barcelo Imperial Hotel.
The caring trio have now been invited to attend the North-West final’s gala dinner at Blackpool Tower on Saturday, October 8.
Janet (55), of Chadderton, dedicates much of her time to a man who has profound and complex needs. The senior support worker who is employed by one of the country’s top care companies, Sevacare, was nominated for her “dignity in care”.
Anna Stevenson, Chadderton branch manager, said: “Janet is an absolute star in what she does.
She provides intensive interaction with a man in his early 30s and gets him out in the community.
“She has given him much more freedom in his life.”
Delighted with reaching the final, Janet revealed she was a “nervous wreck” when she was in front of the judging panel.
“I get a lot from my job and being recognised is a great honour.”
Mum-of-two Rebecca (28), who works at Housing 21, based in the Meridian Business Centre, King Street, Oldham, was nominated by her manager Pauline McCormick for her “outstanding attitude, skills and commitment towards caring for the elderly”.
Rebecca, of Leesway, Lees, helps provide all aspects of care for the elderly from arranging hospital visits to organising meals and medication.
“Whatever happens I’m glad just to be nominated and recognised for the work I do. I enjoy what I do, it’s my passion, I wouldn’t dream of doing anything else.”
Mossley resident Amanda Looseley (46) could come away with two caring awards in a short space of time after winning the national Caregiver of the Year award by her employers Home Instead Senior Care.
Amanda, who is based in Uppermill, beat nine other in-house finalists to win the award after being put forward by Home Instead senior care owner Mick Sheehan.
He said: “She’s loving and compassionate, she’s gentle yet motivational, she’s understanding and patient, but most of all she provides care in the most dignified way possible.”
Amanda said: “I really enjoy my job and find it so rewarding to care for my elderly clients.”
If any of the Oldham-based golden girls win at the regional ceremony of Great British Care Awards they will be invited to attend the national event in London next year.
