Nursing team at care village recognised at awards ceremony

The nurses at Belong Atherton care village have been 'highly commended' at the Great North West Care Awards. The eight-strong group of professionals were recognised for their 'passion, dedication, and performance' in their work, and received The Care Home Team Nursing Award for 'promoting the independence of residents' at the dementia specialist care village. The team at Belong Atherton take a 'person-centred approach', visiting residents rather than moving them to needs-defined areas.

This method avoids the need to relocate residents and differs from the more 'segregated' nursing model found in many care settings. Judges praised the team’s 'cohesive, responsive approach' for building an environment where 'residents feel valued and respected'. They also commended their commitment to mentoring student nurses, ensuring the next generation is 'well-prepared' for their careers.



Ayo Oyebanji, a member of the team, was also nominated for The Care Home Newcomer Award, having qualified in the profession following a work placement at the village before returning to a permanent position. Belong Atherton general manager, Nicola Johnstone, was shortlisted for The Outstanding Contribution to Social Care Award for her leadership and key role in achieving the village’s Care Quality Commission (CQC) ‘Outstanding’ rating and its Platinum Quality Hallmark Award for end-of-life and palliative care. Sue Goldsmith, Belong chief operating officer, said: "We are thrilled that our Belong Atherton nursing team has been recognised at the Great North West Care Awards – to reach the regional finals is a massive achievement.

"Many of the team began their careers with us, starting out as support workers and then through training and mentorship, have developed to qualify in their field. "We empower our nurses with the autonomy to carry out our roles as independent practitioners and this enables us to provide the best possible care for our residents." This recognition comes after Belong’s recent win at the 2024 HealthInvestor Seniors Housing Awards , where they took the title for Best Health and Wellness Service.

More information about Belong can be found at www.belong.org.

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