CARERS at a Dawlish care home have been recognised for their long and dedicated service.

Three staff members at Sefton Hall have clocked up more than 40 years and were among those rewarded by owners Southern Healthcare.

Team members who reach a long service milestone receive a letter thanking them for their service, are awarded additional annual leave and presented with a certificate, and a gift voucher.

Those recognised were Andreea Vieru, 10 years and Alison Adair and Penny Truswell, both 15 years.

Penny Truswell, senior team leader at Sefton Hall, was recognised for 15 years service. Photo contributed
Penny Truswell, senior team leader at Sefton Hall, was recognised for 15 years service. Photo contributed (mda )

Andreea added: ‘Receiving a 10-year long service award is very special to me.

‘It reminds me how much I have grown both professionally and personally at Sefton Hall.

‘Over the years, I have become more confident, resilient and self-aware and I have developed stronger communication and leadership skills.

‘I truly enjoy working here because of the supportive team, the meaningful relationships with our residents and the difference we make every day.’

Also in attendance was Glennis Cleave who started at Sefton Hall more than 43 years ago and continued her career with Southern Healthcare when they bought the home 21 years ago.

The group, which also has homes in Exeter, Plymouth and Seaton, invited team members to an event celebrating long service milestones from five to more than 20 years.

Southern Healthcare also honoured four nurses at the award ceremony held at the company’s training centre in Dawlish.

The nurses - Phillip Adams, Francis Agyei, Philip Yeboah, and Cosmin Lupoi – completed an advanced Diploma in Adult Social Care Nursing, co-written and launched by Southern Healthcare’s director of nursing and compliance, Margot Whittaker, in partnership with the University of Greater Manchester.

Geoffrey Cox, managing director of Southern Healthcare and his wife and business partner Margot, expressed their gratitude to the team, commending their passion and dedication.

He said: ‘Our incredible team members excel in providing outstanding care for our residents, as well as supporting each other.

‘Southern Healthcare has built a strong reputation for the incredible work our teams do, and we deeply value them.’