We are thrilled to have won at The Great British (West Midlands) Care Awards 2024. Our chef Chris Breakwell won the Cook/Chef Award and Lisa Whitehouse was a finalist in the Care Worker Category. Chris now goes through to the National Awards where we wish him every success.
Chris and Lisa had a fabulous night celebrating at the Awards Ceremony with all our other Heritage Manor finalists and winners.
Chris’s Award WIN at The Great British Care Awards
In Chris’s words:
“With 25 years of culinary experience in hotels and restaurants, I have honed my skills in creating dining experiences that delight guests. Recently transitionally into the care sector, I find immense fulfilment in providing nutritious, enjoyable meals that cater to the unique needs of residents. My commitment to quality and passion for cooking drive me to continuously innovate and adapt menus.”
Chris has been at Astley Hall for almost 2 years and has had a big impact on the quality of food and the dining experience. He arrived, having only worked in restaurants and pubs, to be the only permanent member of the Kitchen Team. Chris now runs, along with the Head Housekeeper, our wider and fully staffed Hospitality Team.
Chris enthusiastically embraced learning about the nutritional and hydration needs for the residents in the home. Everyone loves him and he’s taller than anyone else here! He makes sure that he offers seasonal menus to suit residents’ tastes and requests: Special request meals, themed events, birthday cakes and even handmade Easter eggs. All delicious and made with such flair!
Sharing knowledge is important to Chris and he mentors and champions his team. He has recently written a short training programme for all staff, to help them to understand nutritional needs and possible swallowing difficulties for residents.
Our residents are in for a treat this Christmas! We are imagining now the Christmas lunch and festive goodies Chris is going to be whipping up with our catering team!
Lisa was a FINALIST in the Care Worker Category
Lisa has worked at Astley Hall for over 8 years. She has been part of a lot of changes and has positively embraced and supported the home, the residents and her colleagues. She is now a well-respected senior carer in the home, being a role model demonstrating positive values and behaviours.
When Lisa is on shift there are always comments that there is a relaxed but efficient atmosphere. Both residents and colleagues benefit from her clear, but empathetic communication. Lisa has a particular ability to relax residents living with dementia and challenging behaviour. She takes every opportunity to support residents outside, so they can enjoy the Astley gardens and views.
As a senior, Lisa uses her initiative and takes responsibility. She does everything to best of her ability. Residents are always at the forefront of everything she does.
We are so proud of Chris and Lisa and all our Astley team.