Islington carers are recognised

Home care workers, nursing home staff and day centre workers have been recognised for going out of their way to help thousands in Islington live safely, independently and with dignity.

Islington's Care Worker Awards, held on 1 February - coincided with Dignity Action Day, an annual celebration of rights to dignity for those using care services.

Cllr Janet Burgess, executive member for adult social care and health, Islington Council said:

"Islington's extraordinary carers help older and vulnerable residents stay looked after and safe.

"Islington's Care Worker Award winners often make a critical difference - ensuring older adults are safe in care or in their own homes, often giving a significant degree of choice and dignity.

"On Dignity Action Day we say a huge 'thank you' for the difference their care makes."

Dame Joan Bakewell, Dignity in Care Ambassador said:

"Dignity Action Day highlights a more respectful way of behaving towards vulnerable people.

"The very old and the very young clearly need our respect, but it wouldn't do any harm to spread the dignity message across the population - then we can all benefit."

A panel of Islington judges comprising Cllr Janet Burgess, Age UK's CEO Andy Murphy, LINk Chair Olav Ernstzen, CCG member Dr Ratnival, Alzheimers Regional Manager Peter Todd and Council Care Worker Evelyn Martin, MBE met to shortlist the borough's worthy winners in January.

Islington Care Worker Award Winners 2013 are:

• Jacqui Williams - Domiciliary Care
• Maureen Collins - Day Centres
• Dennah Patterson - Residential Care
• Georgina Jeffery - Extra Care

  Picking up a prize in the residential care home category, Dennah Patterson a care worker at Lennox House, N4 said:

  "I am absolutely stunned and excited to have been nominated and to receive the award.

  "I am proud to be working at Lennox House and for everyone to see what great work we are doing here."

  For more information, go to: www.islington.gov.uk/dignityactionday