Celebrating excellence: meet our 2025 Values Awards winners
At Exemplar Health Care, we believe that great care starts with great people.
That’s why we’re proud to shine a spotlight on our incredible colleagues through our annual Values Awards – a celebration of those who go above and beyond every day to make a difference in the lives of our residents, their families, and each other.
Recognising outstanding care and commitment
This year, we received a record-breaking 2,827 nominations from across the organisation – submitted by colleagues, residents, and family members.
These nominations celebrated moments of compassion, teamwork, innovation, and leadership, and were carefully reviewed by a diverse judging panel, including Service User Ambassadors, Home Managers, and members of our Executive Management Team.
The celebrations took place at regional and national levels, culminating in a special event where we announced our national winners.
Our 2025 Values Awards winners
We’re thrilled to introduce our overall 2025 Values Award winners, who each received a trophy and a £1,000 holiday voucher to enjoy a well-deserved break.
Leanne Kennedy from Brook View
Leanne, a Senior Health Care Assistant, was recognised for her incredible teamwork, leadership, and commitment to person-centred care.
Her calm, consistent leadership at Brook View, and her ability to work seamlessly across departments, has made her an indispensable part of the home’s success.
From training colleagues to managing rotas, she plays a vital role in the smooth running of her home.
Summer Docherty from Hillside Court
Summer, also a Senior Health Care Assistant, brings energy, compassion, and fun into her work.
She’s known for going above and beyond to create a positive, inclusive environment for everyone in her home.
Her infectious positivity, proactive mindset, and unwavering resilience have helped create a strong, supportive community spirit that’s lifted both colleagues and residents through some really tough times.
Our 2025 Leadership Award winners
We also recognised excellence in leadership through two additional award categories.
Home Manager Values Award winner – Zoe Shears from Maypole Grove
Zoe leads by example, championing excellent care and colleague wellbeing.
Under her leadership, Maypole Grove has thrived. With a clear focus on co-production and service user engagement, people are truly at the heart of the home.
CNM/Deputy Manager Values Award winner – Lesley Burgin from Yarningdale
Lesley is a supportive and approachable leader who plays a key role in mentoring student nurses and driving the highest standards of care.
Known for her bubbly personality and positivity, Lesley brings great energy and huge smiles whenever she’s around.
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