Two Local Care Professionals Named Finalists in the Bluebird Care Awards 2025
We are incredibly proud to announce that two exceptional members of our team – Kirsti Mace and Leah Summer – have been named regional finalists in this year’s Bluebird Care Awards 2025.
These prestigious annual awards celebrate the dedication, compassion, and skill of Bluebird Care's Care Experts across the UK. Out of hundreds of nominations nationwide, Kirsti and Leah have both been recognised for their outstanding contributions to the lives of those they support, and to the Bluebird Care community as a whole.
🌟 Kirsti Mace – Finalist for Team Player of the Year
Kirsti has been part of our team for over seven years, having joined as a care assistant and progressed into her current role as Supervisor. She is widely respected by both her colleagues and customers for her calm leadership, hard work, and unwavering dedication.
Kirsti is often the first to arrive and the last to leave, and is always ready to step in wherever support is needed. She plays a key role in maintaining our Gold Standard Framework statistics – a standard that we’re proud to hold – and was instrumental in achieving this recognition for both of our franchises.
Despite initially being nervous about delivering training, Kirsti overcame those challenges and has become an accomplished trainer in moving and handling for both new and existing care staff. She is also trained in dementia care and has completed the Gloucestershire Dementia Link Award, allowing her to write deeply personalised care plans for individuals living with dementia.
As Tracy Morgan, Registered Care Manager, who nominated Kirsti, shared:
"She gives 110% all day, every day. She is phenomenal, incredibly modest, and will always downplay her achievements – but we see the difference she makes, every day."
🌟 Leah Summer – Finalist for Customer Care Award
Leah has been nominated for her incredible compassion and creativity in supporting one of her customers, S, who lives with Alzheimer’s.
S had become increasingly anxious after her diagnosis and had stopped going out altogether. Leah took the time to listen to her concerns and understand what mattered to her – particularly her desire to return to Quaker meetings, which she had once enjoyed. Leah thoughtfully organised a trip to a local garden centre with S and her friend, as a gentle step toward rebuilding her confidence.
The results were extraordinary. S began to feel more positive and empowered, repeatedly saying, "I can’t believe it – I’m out!" That one visit led to further steps: walking to the hairdressers with her friend, hosting a Quaker meeting at home, and soon – attending one in her village once again.
As Tracy Morgan, Registered Care Manager, noted in her nomination:
“This is life-changing for S – and it’s all down to Leah’s care, dedication and thoughtful approach.”
Celebrating at the Bluebird Care Awards 2025
Kirsti and Leah will be celebrated at the Bluebird Care Awards 2025 ceremony on Wednesday 16th July at Bailbrook House Hotel in Bath. It promises to be a day full of recognition, inspiration, and celebration of the people who make such a difference to lives across the UK.
We are incredibly proud of both Kirsti and Leah for the passion and professionalism they bring to their roles. Their nominations are a true reflection of the impact that excellent care can have – not just day to day, but for a person’s whole outlook on life.
Please join us in congratulating Kirsti and Leah on this fantastic achievement!
