Senior leader at Selston care home owners receives prestigious national award
A Nottinghamshire care professional has received national recognition for her outstanding decade-long contribution to adult social care.
Liz Norton, head of learning and development at Church Farm Care, recently received a Chief Nurse Adult Social Care Gold Award from the Department of Health and Social Care, which celebrates exceptional contributions to nursing and social care.
Liz, who lives in Collingham, has worked alongside the Church Farm Care team for 10 years, leading learning and development across the group’s five homes – which includes Wren Hall in Selston.
Liz has led in supporting its 65 specialist nurses and providing confidential wellbeing support for colleagues and relatives.
As a mental health first aider, Liz also facilitates menopause support sessions and provides one-to-one wellbeing and professional advocacy support, helping staff and relatives access practical guidance and a confidential space to talk.
The impact of Liz’s work is reflected in feedback from colleagues across Church Farm care’s services.
One member of staff said: “Being able to talk to someone has meant I feel able to stay at work, rather than having to go off sick.”
Claire Rushin, a Dementia Friend at the group, said: “Liz always listens, making you feel heard and creating a safe space for everyone.
"She somehow knows what you need to work through each dilemma, issue or crisis. Liz supports and empowers people to be the best version of themselves.”
Patrick Atkinson, co-founder and managing director of Church Farm Care, said: “At Church Farm Care, we believe that people matter and Liz is the embodiment of this company philosophy.”
Speaking previously about the wellbeing service, Liz said: “Being fully listened to is incredibly rare. When people finally have that space, it can be powerful.
"It allows them to be honest, emotional and to say things they may not feel able to share anywhere else.”
The Chief Nurse Adult Social Care Gold Award recognises individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to nursing or adult social care, acknowledging excellence in areas including clinical practice, education, research and leadership.
Award recipients are encouraged to become social care ambassadors, helping to raise the profile of the adult social care profession.