Quorn care home nominated for national award

 

A Quorn care home is celebrating after being announced as a finalist for a prestigious award.

Toby Sturgess, Home Manager at Care UK’s Lonsdale Mews, on Farley Way, has been shortlisted for ‘Registered Manager of the Year’ in the Leaders in Care Awards 2024. 

The Leaders in Care Awards recognise commitment to care and shine a spotlight on committed individuals who go above and beyond to support residents, families and team members.

Beginning his career as a care assistant in 2005, Toby has worked his way up to Home Manager and now has eleven years of managerial experience. 

Toby believes in creating a warm, open culture that promotes constant learning, and has an open-door policy. According to Toby, there’s no such thing as a silly idea or question – and his team is empowered to come up with innovative solutions to benefit residents and continue to provide the highest possible standards of care. 

He said: “Being there for your team when they need you is the most important thing. You must take the approach of becoming a counsellor and a friend before you can become a Home Manager.”

Toby ensures that residents are always at the forefront of decision making and so hosts monthly meetings, giving residents the opportunity to suggest new activities, menu ideas and provide feedback.

Under Toby’s leadership, the team at Lonsdale Mews has hosted casino afternoons, pop-up seaside garden parties, and a gardening club. Toby also loves to get the local community involved in life at the home including for the monthly ‘Lonsdale Choir’ and ‘Friendship Café’, as well as the quarterly choir concert.

Toby has appointed Phoebe the dachshund the ‘Head of Happiness’ who visits the home every day. He recognises the benefits of animal therapy to residents, which has been particularly impactful for one resident who used to be a trustee of a dog’s home.

Dianna Coy, Regional Director, said: “Toby is hugely deserving of this special nomination. He works so hard to create a friendly and caring atmosphere, ensuring that residents live happy and fulfilling lives. I am also extremely proud of Toby – he really does go above and beyond and is an inspiration to us all. Fingers crossed for a win later this year!”

Commenting on his nomination, Toby said: “Since joining the team at Lonsdale Mews four years ago, I’ve enjoyed every single day. I love knowing that I’m making a difference to residents’ lives and creating meaningful connections. 

“I always strive to encourage and inspire other team members to achieve their goals while providing the best care possible. I’m honoured to have been nominated for this award – it would not be possible without my amazing team. Thank you to everyone at Lonsdale Mews – it’s been a fantastic team effort!” 

Lonsdale Mews offers full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite. The home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.