A PROUD activities leader from a Stourport care home is celebrating after being shortlisted for a prestigious award.

Carla Siwicki, who has worked at Ravenhurst Residential Care Home for over six years, has been shortlisted in the Care Activities Co-ordinator category of the National Care Awards.

The dedicated worker said she was over the moon after being nominated by her employer, Sanctuary Care, without her knowledge.

Carla ensures that residents have the opportunity to enjoy their favourite pastimes as well as encouraging them to take part in other interesting activities, trying new things.

She said: “I was really surprised to find out that I had been nominated and I am thrilled to have made it through to the finals.

“It really is a huge honour to have been shortlisted ahead of so many and I am just so proud.

“My residents mean the world to me, and seeing them smile is just the best feeling so I always try to do everything I can to provide them with a range of enjoyable and stimulating activities.”

72-year-old resident, Rita Hardiman said: “Carla is a treasure in our eyes; she does so much for us.

“We all think highly of her passion and long may she stay with us as we couldn’t do without her.”

And Carla’s manager Andrew Green added “Carla is so passionate about always doing the very best for the residents and making sure that they are doing things that are important to them, helping them feel fulfilled and treating them as the wonderful individuals they are.

“She is a very special part of our team and we all feel very lucky to have her here at Ravenhurst.”

Carla will be attending an awards gala night on Friday, November 24 at the Hilton London Metropole in London, where the winner will be announced.