STAFF member Gill Harper who works at Threshfield Court Care Home, near Grassington, was crowned as the national winner in the Care Practitioner category at the 2020 Barchester Care Awards.

The awards celebrate staff and volunteers who go the extra mile for the benefit of residents and patients living in Barchester care homes and independent hospitals.

More than 2,800 nominations were received from homes, residents, staff and relatives across the UK this year - which is nearly 1,000 more than last year. Nominations were sent in by Barchester staff, but many more were also from residents and their families who have praised the fantastic care provided to their loved ones.

Gill said: “I am delighted to have been crowned the National winner – this is the biggest achievement in my 20 year career in care.

“I love my job and what I do and I am extremely thankful to all the relatives, residents and to my colleagues for the votes and appreciation they have shown.”

After being named as the divisional winner of the north region, Gill Harper was virtually interviewed by a panel of judges for the last round of judging. She then joined the other divisional winners from the same category – Care Practitioner for a virtual but nonetheless special awards ceremony, to celebrate their achievements, and was joined by colleagues, General Manager and residents to join the event and cheer on, from the comfort of their home.

Care Home Senior General Manager, Stacey Nicholson, at Threshfield Court said: “This is an amazing achievement, and the staff, residents and community are very proud of Gill wholeheartedly. It’s more important than ever to recognise everyone that has worked so hard. It is lovely for us to see Gill being selected as the winner for Care Practitioner. There isn’t a more worthy winner, and we’re really excited to celebrate Gill with a celebration at Threshfield Court.