Anchor Southport colleague wins top award at Great British Care Awards

Anchor, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of care and housing for people in later life, is proud to announce that John Edmunds triumphed at the North West regional final of the Great British Care Awards 2025, which recognises excellence across the care sector.

John, representing Anchor’s Thomas Henshaw Court care home in Southport, overcame the competition to claim The Care Home Worker Award at the regional final held at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel in Manchester on Saturday (8 November).

The Great British Care Awards honour individuals who have gone the extra mile to help improve the lives of residents within their care.

Judges said that John’s compassionate care stems from personal experience supporting people with autism and schizophrenia. Creative and dedicated, he personalises residents’ spaces, drives outings with a minibus licence, and trains as a chef to provide comforting meals. Committed to dignity, learning, and a family-like environment, he makes a meaningful difference every day.

Following his win, John, Care Assistant at Anchor, will advance on to the national final at the ICC in Birmingham, which will take place next Spring.

Nicola Ugurbascicek, Home Manager of Anchor’s Thomas Henshaw Court, said: “This is a wonderful achievement by John who fully deserves this recognition of his passion and ability.

“John is a delight to work with and all our residents love him too! He's an incredible part of our team and makes working at Anchor’s Thomas Henshaw Court a joy.”

John was delighted to win at the regional final, saying: “It’s amazing! I was so happy just to be nominated but I honestly can’t believe I’ve won! I love doing what I do and it’s wonderful to be recognised by the judges in The Care Home Worker Award category.

“I'm just so grateful to everyone who nominated and supported me in getting to this stage. I hope I do the North West proud at the upcoming national finals!”

At Anchor, we value our colleagues, who enrich the lives of older people with compassionate, person-centred care. Their dedication helps shape the quality care we provide every day, and we support them with competitive pay, including the Real Living Wage, and opportunities for growth.

We’re always seeking passionate individuals to join us, whether you’re new to care or experienced. At Anchor, you’ll find a rewarding career where you can make a real difference. For more information, visit www.anchor.org.uk/careers.

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