National accolade for Barnard Castle care home hero Sarah

A CARE home is celebrating after a team member was awarded a national accolade.
 Sarah Thompson, a carer at Kings Court Care Home on the Market Place, has been recognised as a Care Home Hero in the Care Home Heroes 2017 awards. Ms Thompson, who competed against three finalists, scooped the award after being nominated by colleagues for going the extra mile in her care for residents. Residents not only look forward to spending time with Thompson, as she brightens up their day, but her dedication to ensuring that respect and dignity is maintained at Kings Court is hugely evident, they said.
 Care Home Heroes is organised by Ontex, in association with Caring Times, and rewards individuals working in the care sector who make a real impact in their particular place of work. 
A spokesman said: “Ms Thompson goes above and beyond the call of duty, taking residents to hospital appointments in her own time and taking part in fundraising activities for the home. She also makes it her priority to support and mentor the residents, encouraging their independence as well as taking the time to develop their communication skills.”
 Mitch Lloyd, home manager at Kings Court, said: “The Care Home Heroes awards is a brilliant opportunity for individuals within the care sector to showcase their commitment and dedication. We’re delighted that Sarah has been recognised for this accolade, she is very popular with residents and the care team and makes a real positive impact to daily life at Kings Court.”
Ms Thompson said: “I am thrilled to have been recognised in the Care Home Heroes awards. All of the finalists were deserving winners, but I’m really pleased to receive this commendation as I love working at Kings Court.
“I want to continue delivering care to the best standards, especially as I want to pursue a career in nursing.”