Although Deserie did not take home the overall award, reaching the final shortlist from across the entire Bluebird Care network is an incredible achievement and a reflection of the difference she makes every day to people living with dementia and their families.
For those who know her, the recognition comes as no surprise.
In 2017, Deserie made the brave decision to leave a senior management role within the NHS. It was a significant personal and professional step, but one driven by a simple belief: that she could make a greater difference to people's lives through high-quality, person-centred care.
That decision has helped shape what Bluebird Care has become today.
Over the past eight years, Deserie has led the development of dementia services across Torbay, Totnes, Plymouth and South Hams, helping establish Bluebird Care as one of South Devon's leading providers of dementia home care.
For Deserie, dementia care has never been about processes alone. It is about helping people remain connected to the people, places and routines that matter most to them, while supporting families through one of life's most challenging journeys.
Her passion for improving dementia care can be seen in everything she does. She works closely with local organisations including Memory Matters, Age UK Torbay, Elder Tree and memory cafés, as well as healthcare professionals, people living with dementia and their families. Their experiences and insights help shape the way Bluebird Care delivers support.
Throughout 2025, Deserie led an ambitious dementia strategy that raised standards across the organisation. From enhanced staff training and specialist dementia expertise to improved care planning and support pathways, her focus has always been on ensuring customers receive the highest quality of care possible.
Among her many achievements, she introduced initiatives such as an Experts by Experience panel, immersive Dementia Bus training and the recruitment of a specialist Dementia Care Manager. She has also championed advanced dementia education for both office teams and Care Experts, helping create a workforce that is knowledgeable, confident and compassionate.
Emma Allan, Franchise Owner of Bluebird Care Plymouth & South Hams and Bluebird Care Torbay & Totnes, said:
"I am incredibly proud of Deserie and everything she has achieved. Being recognised as a national finalist is a wonderful accomplishment and reflects the passion, dedication and leadership she brings to our organisation every day.
What makes Deserie special is that she never loses sight of why we do what we do. Every improvement, every new initiative and every piece of training is about making life better for people living with dementia and supporting the families who love them. This recognition is thoroughly deserved."
While the award itself was highly competitive, being named a finalist among the very best dementia care leaders across the UK is something everyone at Bluebird Care is immensely proud of.
Most importantly, it recognises the impact Deserie has had on countless local families, helping people living with dementia receive expert, compassionate care in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes.
Congratulations, Deserie, on this fantastic achievement and thank you for the difference you continue to make across our communities every day.
