Lancashire care home worker shines at regional awards
A long-serving activities and wellbeing coordinator from Croston Park Nursing Home has been recognised as the best in the region at the 2025 Great British Care Awards.
Jenny Forrest was crowned winner of The Care Home Activities Organiser Award for the North West at the ceremony held recently in Manchester, marking a step up from her runner-up position last year. The annual awards celebrate individuals across the social care sector who demonstrate innovation, compassion and exceptional commitment.
Forrest joined Croston Park in December 2011 as a care assistant and has since progressed into her current role, also acting as the home’s Dignity and Dementia Champion. Known for her continuous professional development, she remains closely engaged with best practice and new approaches in care.
Judges described her as: “A truly creative individual who constantly seeks out new and meaningful ways to support their residents. They go above and beyond to ensure each person feels valued, understood, and cared for, often thinking outside the box to bring fresh ideas, solutions, and compassionate approaches to everyday challenges.”
Over the past year, Forrest has spearheaded a range of initiatives at the Leyland home, including themed cultural events, music and movement programmes, and intergenerational partnerships aimed at strengthening residents’ sense of connection and belonging.
Reacting to her win, she said: “Winning this award means so much to me, and I’m overwhelmed to have been recognised in this way. Everything I do is for our residents, they are the heart of our home and being able to bring joy, purpose, and meaningful moments into their days is the reason I love what I do.
“It was very special to celebrate this with my colleagues and friends who continually drive us all forward to deliver the highest standards of person-centred care.”
The awards also recognised another long-serving Croston Park team member. Maureen Kelly, who has worked at the home for 36 years in roles ranging from reception and administration to her current position as Hospitality Manager, was Highly Commended for Outstanding Contribution to Social Care.
Chris Lane, chairman of operator Park Lane Healthcare, praised both team members, saying: “We are absolutely delighted for Jenny and immensely proud of the dedication, imagination and passion she brings to her work every single day. Her constant desire to create new opportunity, new experience, and new moments of joy for our residents is exceptional.
“We are equally proud of Maureen’s achievements; her 36 years of service and unwavering commitment to residents, families, and colleagues, represent the values of Croston Park and Park Lane Healthcare. Both awards are thoroughly deserved.”
Park Lane Healthcare operates residential and nursing homes across Yorkshire and Lancashire, including Croston Park in Leyland.