AN INSPIRATIONAL care worker has had her efforts recognised with a prestigious national award.

The Great British Care Awards saw Darlington woman Nicola Laycock named the Care Home Activity Organiser of the Year.

Ms Laycock’s devotion to her job netted her the regional award in the category prior to her national win.

She was commended by judges for her efforts in engaging residents at Darlington’s Willow Green care home, where she works as group activities co-ordinator for the St Martins Care company.

Ms Laycock also devises stimulating activities for elderly people living at homes in Forest Hall, Thornaby, Middlesbrough and Guisborough.

A thoughtful approach has allowed Ms Laycock and her team to lead residents in an unusual series of activities, from recording Christmas CDs to transforming the home into a seaside paradise.

Last week, Ms Laycock was presented with her award at a glitzy ceremony in Birmingham.

She said: “Too often, people think of care homes as places where residents are bored and sit around all day or where elderly people go to die.

“When residents come to us, it is the start of a new chapter and we do our best to make it as engaging and enjoyable for them and their families as possible.

“I love what I do and love working with the residents so this award is the icing on the cake.”

Kevin Pattison, managing director of St Martins Care, said: “We are very proud of Nicola and are delighted with her well-deserved national recognition.

“She is a real asset to St Martins Care and her approach typifies exactly what we are trying to achieve - making our care homes friendly and homely places where our residents are happy,”