COLCHESTER, U.K. -- The National Dementia Awards and the National Care Awards each year recognise professional carers and volunteers who strive to enhance the lives and wellbeing of those living in care homes or visiting day centres. This year Care UK has three representatives in each final.

In the National Dementia Awards the organisation is represented by the oldest nominee for any category. Len Clarke is 97 years old and a volunteer at Broadwater Lodge care home in Godalming.

Manager Angie Bookham said: “Len is a truly devoted husband and his affection and dedication for his wife are very touching. He attends all the functions held at Broadwater Lodge.

“He also makes a valuable contribution to daily life, especially at relatives’ meetings where he gives support and advice in an open forum where relatives can share any questions they may have with members of our team. Len is always a reassuring presence, particularly for new residents who he helps to settle in.”

Also representing Care UK in the National Dementia Award finals are the dementia team at Tall Trees care home in Colchester who were nominated for their energetic and life enhancing programme of activities and trips; and Lorraine Poulton, from Place Court care home in Haverhill, who has been nominated as a Dignity Champion for her caring and empathetic work with residents.

In the National Care Awards finals judges met Libby Hoy, the senior team leader at Care UK’s Crabbe Street care home in Ipswich. Libby is a finalist in the newest category – Excellence in Resident Handling – where judges look for evidence of excellent training and an ongoing passion and commitment to moving and handling residents in a safe and respectful way.

Also representing Care UK in the awards are Carys Done, Senior Administrator at Pinetum nursing home, in Chester, for her 20-year commitment to the home, its residents, relatives and the team who provide specialist nursing care for residents with complex needs; and Moises Monares, a nurse at Care UK’s Birchwood care home in Newbury.

Winners of the National Dementia Awards will be announced at the 8th National Dementia Congress on 6th November, while the National Care Awards winners will be announced at a gala event at the London Hilton Metropole Hotel on 29th November 2013.