Celebrating exceptional care workers in Redcar & Cleveland
The Champion Awards shine a spotlight on the care workers who make a real difference in Redcar and Cleveland.
This year, we are proud to celebrate the inspiring individuals whose dedication, compassion and excellence have gone above and beyond.
Rising Star Award
Winner: Yolanda Charmaine Shereni, Olam Care
For care workers who are less than three years into their career and already making a significant impact. Open to all ages.
Upon receiving the award, she said, “I thought it was a scam! I wasn’t expecting it at all. Thank you for the recognition. It’s not just me, it’s the whole team at Olam, and the families, it is not a one-man job, it takes a whole community. We all put our hearts into the job, and it’s wonderful that these awards recognise the hard work of people in the industry across Redcar and Cleveland.”
Lifetime Achievement Award
Winner: Caroline Bowstead, Astune Rise.
Honouring care workers with 10+ years of dedicated service who have made a lasting impact in their community.
Upon receiving the award, she said, “I don’t think it’s real! It’s an amazing feeling to win the Lifetime Achievement award. The Champion Awards are more personal than any UK-wide caring awards that I’ve been involved in because they are nominated and voted for by local people – it has made it feel really special.”
Young Carer of the Year Award
Winner: Olivia Round, Valorum Care.
For care workers aged 25 or under who have shown exceptional dedication and made a meaningful difference.
Upon receiving the award, she said, “I am beyond ecstatic to win the Young Carer of the Year award. I was so shocked when I got the call that I had won. It means so much to be recognised.”
Unsung Hero Award
Winner: Barbra Richardson, BJP Home Support.
For care workers whose quiet, consistent excellence touches the lives of those around them, even if they don’t always seek the spotlight.
Upon receiving the award, she said, “ I am completely shocked that I have won the Unsung Hero award. I don’t do my job for recognition. I had no idea that I had been nominated, let alone won the award!”
Thank you to everyone who submitted your entries. A huge congratulations to our winners of 2025.
