Woodbridge’s Seckford Care recognised for its continued commitment at the inaugural ‘Housing with Care Awards’

Seckford Care in Woodbridge, Suffolk, is celebrating two wins and a ‘Highly Commended’ at the inaugural ‘Housing with Care Awards’ Gala Dinner, held at the Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square in London on 9^th June 2023.

Seckford Care’s Cassie Parratt won the coveted ‘The Housing Manager Award (Independent)’ award, Bill Hopley was recognised as best ‘Activities Coordinator’, and Mike Wilson received ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Care Handyperson’ category. 

The prestigious ‘Housing with Care Awards’, hosted by ‘Care Talk’ magazine, recognise and celebrate excellence in accommodation and services for integrated retirement communities, people with learning disabilities and people with mental health problems, retirement villages, assisted living, extra care housing and supported living and shared lives schemes.

Cassie Parratt says of her win:

“I was really surprised to win and felt very emotional. It was a fantastic evening, celebrating with so many people committed to caring for others.”

Bill Hopley adds: 

“I was delighted to have won the Award. After a long career in the Police Service and being new to care, I love the way my job makes such a positive difference to people.”

Mike Wilson comments:

“I’m really pleased to have received the commendation. I’m proud to work for Seckford Care.”

All three staff had to take part in a robust interview process in order to be shortlisted for the awards. The judges were impressed by the quality of care provided at Seckford Care, and selected the three staff for their outstanding commitment, as follows:

The Housing Manager Award (Independent)

Winner: Cassie Parratt, Seckford Care

The love and passion Cassie shows for the work she does is admirable.

She goes the extra mile in her role and demonstrates a level of commitment and dedication that was palpable in her interview. She is a worthy winner of this award.

The Activities Co-ordinator Award:

Winner: Bill Hopley, Seckford Care

Bill’s transferable people skills from his days as a Police Officer have given him a real insight into understanding what people need and want.

His compassion shone through during the judges’ session with him, and his work on inter-generational activities was particularly impressive. There was a real understanding of the anxieties that people go through when moving into residential care, and an insight into the different ways in which people may want or need to access activities.

The Care Handyman / Person Award

Highly Commended: Mike Wilson, Seckford Care

Mike explained that every day is different and that residents always come first. He’s approachable by everyone and his role is more than a job to him.

Gemma Bloomfield, Director of Care at Seckford Care, says: 

“I’m incredibly proud of Cassie, Bill and Mike’s achievements. It also reflects the wider values and ethos of everyone who is part of the Seckford Care team, and how they contribute towards caring for older people. 

“I am thrilled for all of them all, as we continue in our commitment to develop and deliver high-quality services for our residents.” 

Photo caption:

Pictured at the inaugural ‘Housing with Care Awards’, held at the Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square in London on 9^th June 2023, left to right: Seckford Care’s Mike Wilson, who won ‘Highly Commended’ for ‘Care Handyperson’; Mandy Button – Deputy Manager for Extra Care and Activities; Gemma Bloomfield – Director of Care; Cassie Parratt, winner of ‘The Housing Manager Award (Independent)’; and Bill Hopley, winner of best ‘Activities Coordinator’ [CREDIT: Tony Attille / Care Talk] 

For further information on Seckford Care, visit the website at www.seckfordcare.org.uk

To find out more about the ‘Housing with Care Awards’, go to https://www.housingwithcareawards.co.uk/winners-of-the-inaugural-housing-with-care-awards-announced/

ENDS

Note to Editors:

Seckford Care is situated in the beautiful and historic Almshouses, established in Woodbridge, Suffolk by Sir Thomas Seckford in 1587. It forms part of the Seckford Foundation, which includes independent Woodbridge School. This broad-ranging charity unites younger and older people, creating a diverse and exciting organisation at the heart of the community.

Seckford Care is an award-winning Care Home and Extra Care scheme, rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, based in a stunning Grade II-Listed building in the centre of Woodbridge. It enables older people to live fulfilling lives, as independently as possible, whilst promoting and supporting the highest standards of care and support.

Seckford Care provides 30 Extra Care apartments for those who wish to live independently, safe in the knowledge that carers are on hand 24 hours a day. The residential Care Home, Jubilee House, offers 26 single rooms, available for those who would like their own comfortable room, home-cooked meals, access to activities and housekeeping services. The Seckford Club operates for those who live in the community and would like to meet other people, take part in activities and enjoy a convivial lunch.