Deserie Atkins, Operations Manager at Bluebird Care Torbay & Totnes, was named a finalist in the Dementia Champion category at Bluebird Care's national awards, competing alongside some of the most respected dementia care professionals from across the UK.
While she narrowly missed out on the overall award, reaching the final shortlist is a significant achievement and reflects years of commitment to improving the lives of people living with dementia throughout the local community.
For Deserie, dementia care is more than a profession—it's a passion.
After leaving a senior management role within the NHS in 2017, she joined Bluebird Care with a clear ambition: to help create care that sees the person behind the diagnosis and enables people to live well in the place they feel happiest—at home.
Since then, Deserie has helped shape and develop Bluebird Care's dementia services, creating a culture where understanding, compassion and expertise go hand in hand.
Her work has included building strong relationships with local organisations such as Memory Matters, Age UK Torbay, Elder Tree and community memory cafés, ensuring Bluebird Care remains connected to the experiences and needs of people living with dementia and those who support them.
She has also led a range of initiatives designed to improve dementia care across the organisation, including enhanced specialist training, dementia-focused care planning, immersive Dementia Virtual Tour experiences and the development of a dedicated dementia care pathway.
However, those closest to Deserie say her greatest strength is her ability to keep people at the centre of everything she does.
Whether supporting a family adjusting to a dementia diagnosis, developing new services or mentoring colleagues, she is driven by a genuine desire to help people maintain their independence, dignity and quality of life.
Emma Allan, Franchise Owner of Bluebird Care Torbay & Totnes, said:
"Deserie's passion for dementia care shines through in everything she does. She constantly asks how we can do more, do better and make a bigger difference for the people we support.
Reaching the finals of a national award is a tremendous achievement, but what makes me most proud is the impact she has had on local families. She has helped shape a service that truly understands dementia and the importance of supporting both the individual and those around them."
The recognition also highlights Bluebird Care's ongoing commitment to dementia care excellence across Torbay and Totnes, helping more people remain safe, comfortable and connected to their communities while living in their own homes.
Although the award itself went elsewhere, everyone at Bluebird Care believes the nomination alone speaks volumes.
To be recognised as one of the leading dementia champions within a nationwide network is a fitting tribute to Deserie's dedication, vision and unwavering commitment to improving lives.
Congratulations, Deserie, on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for everything you do for our customers, families and community.
