Congratulations Steve! Shortlisted for West Sussex care awards | News

We are incredibly excited to announce that Steve Dyer, Maintenance Operative, at Oakwood Court care home in Haywards Heath has been shortlisted for the West Sussex Partners in Care awards.  

Steve has worked at Oakwood Court for two years and was nominated by Bindu our Care Home Manager, for the ‘Chairs Award’ and we’ve recently found out he’s made it through to the final.  

Steve, along with a few colleagues, will attend a complimentary glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 21 May near Arundel to hear the results of his category. The West Sussex Partners in Care accolades take place each year, and the event is kindly sponsored by a variety of organisations to recognise the commitment and dedication of social care workers across West Sussex.  

In his nomination, Steve received praise for consistently going beyond the expectations of his role by placing residents’ wellbeing, dignity and quality of life at the heart of what he does. His kind and helpful nature is exemplified by bringing his labrador ‘Bella’ to work, she has a bed under his workbench! He volunteers with Bella and together they spend time chatting and reminiscing with residents. One resident said: “I was never allowed a dog growing up and I absolutely love dogs. Seeing Bella really makes my day!”  

Steve also brings his guitar to work and can often be found singing and performing for residents, positively uplifting everyone’s spirits in his own time.  

Steve reacted to the exciting news: “I’m really chuffed to be nominated and it’s nice to think people are pleased with what I’m doing. That’s all I can hope for. It will be fascinating to meet and celebrate people on the West Sussex care frontline. I’m honoured to be representing Sussex Housing & Care and it will be nice to be out of my uniform, I might even wear a tie!”

In addition, Maria Figueira Chef Manager at Oakwood Court was nominated for the Ancillary Award, for all her efforts in planning and creating delicious seasonal menus and dishes for residents, and managing our 5* rated kitchen. Maria will join Steve at the awards to celebrate their nominations.  

Bindu, Care Home Manager at Oakwood Court is delighted to support her team: “Being nominated and shortlisted is a huge achievement in itself and I’m proud that Steve and Maria have been recognised for everything they do in their roles to support residents and colleagues. We’re looking forward to hearing the final result on 21 May and wish Steve all the best!”