A BLYTH care home housekeeper has been shortlisted for the Great British Care Awards in the North East.
Lesley Russell, who works at The Oaks Care Home, was nominated for the ancillary worker category of the prestigious awards event.
Lesley is one of only six to be shortlisted in the category, which will be decided at a gala evening ceremony at the Marriott Gosforth Park Hotel, Newcastle, on the 30th November.
The Great British Care Awards is one of the leading events of its kind in the care home sector.
Lesley said: “I can’t believe this. It’s such an honour but it’s a team effort and my colleagues work very hard to make sure the home’s environment is what the resident’s need.
“I believe you’ve got to get the basics right and make sure your infection control practices are first rate. Then you know our residents at The Oaks are going to be well.”
Lesley has worked at The Oaks Care Home, on Durban Street, in various roles over the past 24 years.
She began her career in 1994 working in the kitchen. She is now the home’s housekeeper, leading a team of ladies who have themselves been at The Oaks for over ten years.
Lesley is also the infection control lead and is qualifying to train others in this vital area.
Ann Mielnik, home manager, said: “Lesley is a credit to The Oaks. She puts the health and wellbeing of residents first and foremost and goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure they’re healthy and happy.”