Emilia Turner shortlisted in Great British Care Awards

Emilia Turner, who works at Verwood House Care Home, is nominated in the activity organiser category in the Great British Care Awards, South West region.

The 27-year-old has brought the beach to residents, co-ordinated a celebrity gameshow quiz with Shaun Wallace of The Chase and organised numerous community partnerships.

She has worked at Verwood House on Ringwood Road since 2011, starting as dining room assistant, before becoming a carer and then since 2015 focusing on activities.

Emilia, who lives in Shaftesbury, did not let the national lockdown disrupt her ambitious plans for residents at the home.

“We have had many challenges during lockdown and for so many people being unable to see families and enjoy their usual excursions was difficult.

“So, I set myself a target, if we couldn’t go to the beach, the beach would come to us.

“No dream was too small, I sat down with the team and residents, and we talked about what we could do. We have had a ball.”

As well as personalised cocktail events and creating a giant lockdown collage, Emilia has also worked with residents to create a memorial garden in honour of the late Prince Philip.

She is thrilled with the nomination, adding: “I am lucky enough to work with wonderful people in a lovely environment.

“Working as part of a great team and providing a range of meaningful activities to residents.

“I enjoy my job role and I love being able to spend time with residents, finding out about life stories, interests, hobbies and then supporting our Homemakers in the provision of activities.”

The regional awards events will be held later this year and the national final winners will be announced in March 2022.

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