Elena in National Awards - Again!
Fenwick 2’s Dementia Respite Services Manager Elena Prieto-Ruiz (right) has reached the finals of a second high-profile award in just a few weeks.
Elena is a finalist in the South East Great British Care Awards, which will be decided at a grand event in Brighton on November 25. The awards celebrate excellence in social care.
Last week (November 2) Elena was also a finalist in the National Dementia Care Awards 2011 in Liverpool. Although she was not the final winner on that occasion, she now has a second chance to scoop a national award.
Elena manages the dementia respite service at SCA Fenwick2 in Lyndhurst, which allows people with early memory loss to take part in stimulating activities at Fenwick 2 Health and Well-being Centre and to socialise with other people. The service, which runs for three days a week, also supports carers by offering them advice and valuable time off from their caring duties.
Feedback on the service has been excellent, with many carers saying they view it as a lifeline. Service users have also said they enjoy the stimulating activities and friendly environment at the centre.
“I was a little overwhelmed to be chosen as a finalist for a major award twice in the space of a few weeks, but it is good news for the carers, the people who use the service, the staff and the volunteers. It shows we are making a difference, and that’s very rewarding,” said Elena.
