Dignity in Care

We are proud to be a Dignity Champion, as part of the Dignity in Care campaign led by the National Dignity Council.

Core values

In line with the campaign’s core values, we are committed to placing an emphasis on improving the quality of care and the experience of our residents using our services including, home support, care homes and other community services.

As a Dignity Champion we have signed up to the 10 Dignity Do’s:

Dignity Champions

A Dignity Champion is someone who believes passionately that being treated with dignity is a basic human right, not an optional extra.

The Dignity Do's are a personal commitment and the National Dignity Council encourages individuals to become Champions. 

What Dignity Champions do

Each Dignity Champion’s role varies depending on their knowledge and influence and the type of work they are involved in. The role should not be an addition; it is about how you behave as a human being. There are many small things that you can do that can have a big impact on people’s lives. Champions choose how active they want to be, but they must sign up to the Dignity Do's.

How to become a Dignity Champion

Anyone can be a champion: health and social care staff, councillors, volunteers, unpaid carers, receivers of care and members of the public.

Find out more and sign-up to become a Dignity Champion.

Dignity in Care Awards

As part of our role as a Dignity Champion, we are strongly committed to celebrating Dignity in Care, and championing local care workers and personal assistants who go the extra mile to provide outstanding care and support to local residents.

On 3 July 2026 we hosted out Dignity in Care awards ceremony. These awards aim to promote and recognise the very best in care and support, by:

• Recognising good quality care within the borough
• Raising awareness of Dignity in Care
• Inspiring local care workers and personal assistants to deliver outstanding care and support
• Rewarding and recognising those staff and teams that make a difference and go the extra mile

2026 winners

Carer of the Year for Home Support - Gladys Adoctar

Gladys was recognised for the exceptional care, compassion and dignity she brings to supporting a person living with advanced Motor Neurone Disease. As well as delivering highly complex care, she provides emotional support, comfort and reassurance during the most challenging times.

The judges were particularly impressed by her ability to understand and respond to the person’s needs, often without words, bringing calm, hope and strength to their daily life. Her dedication goes far beyond the practical aspects of care, helping the person feel valued, respected and supported. For the individual she cares for, Gladys is much more than a carer – she is considered part of the family.

Carer of the Year for Ken Yew Personal Assistant  - Elaine Heather Lester

Elaine was recognised for her exceptional compassion, creativity and dedication to the people she supports. Taking time to understand what matters most to each individual, she provides truly person-centred care that promotes independence, wellbeing and social connection.

The judges were particularly impressed by how Elaine goes above and beyond her role, encouraging participation in everyday activities such as shared cooking sessions and helping people remain engaged, confident and connected to their community. Her positivity, empathy and commitment make a lasting difference to the lives of those in her care.

Carer of the Year for Learning Disabilities and Mental Health - Nimasha Navarathna

Nimasha is a compassionate and dedicated care professional who consistently goes above and beyond to support the people she works with. She is kind, respectful and supportive, valuing the way she helps the people she cares for stay active, enjoy outings and maintain their independence.

Nimasha has a calm approach and commitment to person-centred care, and treats everyone with dignity and respect and plays an important role in ensuring the service runs smoothly and safely. Demonstrating exceptional dedication, Nimasha learned Farsi to better communicate with a resident, significantly improving their wellbeing and quality of life.

Carer of the Year for Older People’s Care Homes - Elena-Catalina Hiricoiu

Elena-Catalina was recognised for her exceptional commitment to Dignity in Care. When a resident struggled with leaving their home and settling into care, Elena-Catalina took the time to listen, provide reassurance and help them feel welcome. Through her kindness, patience and person-centred approach, she transformed a difficult transition into a positive experience, helping the resident feel safe, supported and at home.

The judges were particularly impressed by her ability to recognise the resident’s emotional needs and respond with compassion, making a lasting difference to their wellbeing.

Carer of the Year for Day Care and Community Services - Iza Bombala

Iza was recognised for her outstanding dedication, kindness and unwavering support. For many years, she has helped people to live independently, feel safe and achieve their goals, providing practical support, personal care and encouragement every step of the way.

One nomination described how Iza brings comfort and reassurance during difficult times, helping with appointments, daily living and building confidence. She supports people to develop independent living skills so that they can remain living in their own home. The judges were impressed by Iza’s compassionate, person-centred approach and the life-changing impact she has had on the people she supports, 

Contact

For further information about the Dignity in Care Awards, please email dignityincare@richmond.gov.uk.