Quorn care home wins big at prestigious national awards

 

A Quorn care home is celebrating after winning a national award at the Leaders in Care Awards 2024.

Toby Sturgess, Home Manager at Care UK’s Lonsdale Mews, on Farley Way, won the ‘Registered Manager of the Year’ award at the Leaders in Care Awards 2024, at a glittering ceremony in Birmingham’s National Conference Centre. 

The Leaders in Care Awards recognise commitment to care and shine a spotlight on dedicated 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 hosts monthly meetings to give 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 care home, including for the monthly ‘Lonsdale Choir’ and ‘Friendship Café’, as well as the quarterly choir concert.

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

Dianna Coy, Regional Director of Care UK, said: “Congratulations Toby! Toby is hugely deserving of this national award win, and he always works so hard to create a friendly and caring atmosphere, ensuring that residents live happy and fulfilling lives. I am extremely proud of Toby – he really does go above and beyond and is an inspiration to us all!”

Commenting on his win, Toby said: “I’m delighted to have won the Registered Manager of the Year award at the Leaders in Care Awards 2024. 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 won this award, but it would not be possible without my amazing team. Thank you to everyone at Lonsdale Mews – it’s been a fantastic team effort!”