Gracewell Healthcare celebrates its inspirational care home residents on Older People's Day

Gracewell Healthcare care home provider has been celebrating its most inspirational residents at its Home Champion Awards 2013.

The finalists from Gracewell’s nine care homes, were nominated for leading outstanding lives both in the past and during their time as residents, before votes were cast to choose the winner.

Peter Curtis, chief executive of Gracewell Healthcare, said: “Our wonderful care homes are full of the most incredible people who have led fascinating lives and continue to inspire us all with their attitude to life.

“We wanted to recognise these people and to hold them up as role models for the older generation.

“The perception of care homes is shifting. Gracewell homes are places where people come to truly live and to create new, cherished memories with their friends and family - these awards are part of that culture change.”

Launched last year, the awards are aimed at recognising and celebrating the great work older people are doing in their care homes and out in the community.

Patricia Breeds, known for her ‘wicked’ sense of humour and ability to make people smile was recognised as an inspiration to fellow residents and her carers in Rossetti House, Frome.

Ms Breeds enjoyed her win, and said: “It’s such an honour to be crowned the Home Champion of such a beautiful home, I was really touched.

“This award is really for everyone here, the residents and the staff – they are just incredible, so kind and lovely. When I came here I actually thought it was a hotel, it’s just stunning.

“I’ll wear my crown with pride.”

Other winners included a woman who ensures her home is a fun place to live for her fellow residents despite a diagnosis of terminal cancer and a Second World War bomber navigator who went on to inspire others as a headmaster and a teacher of children with severe behaviour problems.