On 26th November, Athena Care Homes proudly hosted our first daytime VIP – Value in People Awards, bringing together colleagues from across our seven care homes, central office and regional teams. The event was an inspiring celebration of the individuals and teams who embody Athena’s values and consistently deliver authentic, person-centred care to our residents.
We were delighted to be joined by two of our valued suppliers, who kindly sponsored the event: Creed The Foodservice Company Ltd, Able Cleaning and Hygiene Supplies Ltd. Kings Butchers also sponsored but were unable to attend.
Brodie Cook, Account Manager at Able Cleaning and Hygiene Supplies, shared:
“Presenting the Outstanding Hospitality Award at the Athena ceremony was a real honour. Each Athena location shows an incredible commitment to creating a safe and warm environment for their residents, something we value deeply at Able. Athena’s culture of care shines through in everything they do, and we’re proud to partner with such a dedicated group.”
Jayne Howard, National Account Manager for Creed The Foodservice Company, added:
“Thank you for the invitation to the Athena Awards, it was truly an inspiring event and one where I was made to feel very much part of your team. It was a fantastic honour to present the award to the Best Culinary Team; Aria Court and all the winners were thoroughly deserving. We look forward to working in partnership with you all at Athena in 2026 and I would like to wish all care homes and their residents a very Happy Christmas.”
Honouring Outstanding Contributions
Our award categories were created to recognise those who deliver truly authentic care with passion, whether by creating magical moments for our residents or by supporting one another as colleagues.
We are proud to announce this year’s winners and highly commended colleagues:
Living Athena Values with Passion
Winner: Midhun Murali – Avocet Court
Highly Commended: Michelle Portman – Ashlynn Grange
Best Resident of the Day Experience
Winner: Avocet Court
Highly Commended: Amberley Hall
Pristine Pioneer Award
Winner: Juliet Childerhouse – Amberley Hall
Highly Commended: Goodwins Housekeeping
Community Engagement Award
Winner: Nicola Renton – Alex Wood
Highly Commended: Aria Court
Safety & Compliance Award
Winner: Thomas Turnbull & Lee Shackcloth – Goodwins Hall
Highly Commended: Dan Baker – Regional Support
Outstanding Hospitality Award
Winner: Amberley Hall
Highly Commended: Goodwins Hall
Innovation Award
Winner: Matthew Jones – Ashlynn Grange
Highly Commended: Avocet Court
Well-Led Excellence Award
Winner: Jude Shibu – Regional Support
Highly Commended: Jo Brading – Central Support
Life Enrichment Award
Winner: Goodwins Hall Lifestyle Team
Highly Commended: Simone Carter – Avocet Court
Social Media Award
Winner: Ashlynn Grange
Highly Commended: Goodwins Hall
Making a Difference
Together
Winner: Aria Court
Highly Commended: Nicky Luxford & Vicky Bahmed – Regional Support
Culinary Team of the Year
Winner: Aria Court
Best Whole Home Approach
Winner: Langdon House
Highly Commended: Avocet Court
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The VIP Awards reflect Athena’s deep appreciation for the remarkable people who bring warmth, compassion and excellence to our homes every day. Congratulations to all our winners and highly commended colleagues, and thank you to every team member who continues to make Athena a truly special place to live and work.
We look forward to celebrating even more achievements together in the year ahead.
