Celebrating Excellence in Lincolnshire Care
The Petwood Hotel in Woodhall Spa was the proud host for the The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) Trust Recognition Awards 2025. This special ceremony was dedicated to honouring the inspirational employees and volunteers from the not-for-profit provider's care homes across Lincolnshire.
More than 90 guests gathered for the event, including OSJCT Trustee Richard Miligan-Manby. The evening commenced with an opening address from Chief Executive Dan Hayes OBE, while Mike Stredder, the Group Operations Director, expertly guided proceedings as the Master of Ceremonies.
A Night of Prestigious Awards
The awards were presented by a distinguished group, including Jacqui Roynon (Director of People), Tracey Wardle (Chief Financial Officer), Caroline Dunagan (East Divisional Director), as well as Dan Hayes and Richard Miligan-Manby.
Nominees for these coveted awards were put forward by their colleagues, care home residents, and friends. A judging panel carefully reviewed all submissions, inviting the finalists to the gala ceremony where the winners were revealed and presented with their trophies.
In his speech, Dan Hayes remarked, "In a world that is changing rapidly, largely for the better, being able to keep up with the change and make the most of it is essential." He praised the collective effort, stating, "It is an honour for me to be in the same room as such an amazing group of people."
Meet the 2025 Award Winners
The ceremony saw a host of dedicated individuals recognised for their exceptional contributions. The winners were:
- Exceptional Dedication to Caring Award: Emi Chambers, carer, The Poplars, Market Rasen.
- Making a Difference Volunteering Award: Lesley Paxton, volunteer, Hartsholme House, Lincoln.
- Outstanding Community Engagement Award: Shirley Holt, activities co-ordinator, Beckside, Lincoln.
- The Empowerment Award: Claire Balfe, support worker, Apple Trees, Grantham and Sarolta Bangura, learning and development advisor.
- The Inspirational Leader Award: Lee Morgan, general manager, Apple Trees, Grantham and Caroline Alford, central operations director.
- Unsung Hero of the Year: Lucy Thorpe, activities co-ordinator, Southfield House, Spalding and Joanne Coldwell, regional maintenance manager.
- The Nigel Stourton Award: The entire team at Hartsholme House, Lincoln, for an outstanding contribution to resident care.
Honouring Decades of Dedication
A significant part of the evening was dedicated to Long Service Awards. In total, 13 employees were honoured, representing a staggering combined service of 355 years to the trust.
Among those celebrated for their remarkable commitment were several staff from Beckside in Lincoln, including Angie Herrick, who was recognised for her 25 years of service as a carer. She was joined by colleagues Wendy Hewish and Linda Callow, also honoured for 25 years.
The awards also extended to the Chairman’s Commendation for Meritorious Service, which was awarded to Sarah Royston, a carer at Skirbeck Court in Boston, and Lily Denney, a carer at Whitefriars in Stamford.
Reflecting on the event, Sarolta Bangura, a winner of the Empowerment Award, shared, "It is very humbling to be part of these awards. I’m very grateful, and it means a lot to me." The celebration underscored the profound dedication and compassion that form the foundation of care across Lincolnshire.
