Exceptional carers recognised in January’s GEM Awards

‘Going the extra mile’ to beat some stiff competition, the winners of the January GEM Awards at a Norfolk home care company have been announced.

Carer Tracey Sanchez took the honour at the Horsham St Faith office of Extra Hands, following a nomination from the family of a grateful service user. And in Heacham, the winner was Amanda Hathaway.

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​Both winners said they were surprised when the award-winning family run home care company set up almost 30 years ago revealed the first winners of the year.

Tracey, who celebrated 15 years with Extra Hands in July 2022, was praised for her ‘caring support’ in the nomination.

“Tracey has been my aunt’s carer for all of the year and has been a constant daily carer looking after her.

“She has provided support and general well-being assistance, carrying out daily checks, cleaning and checking on her health. Importantly, she has managed the regular food orders, ensuring my aunt has all the provisions for the week.

“I know my aunt is most appreciative of Tracey’s support and care, and, from the family, we wish to thank Tracey for her caring support,” said the nomination.

The GEM Award winner at the Heacham office was Amanda Hathaway, who received not one but two glowing nominations for the accolade.

One described her as ‘considerate, caring and dedicated’ and said she ‘comes out very well in all areas’.

The other nomination called Amanda ‘bubbly and funny’ and ‘a breath of fresh air’, as well as referring to her as a ‘total Godsend’ and a ‘rock’.

It continued: “She is a very devoted and caring carer and gives her all. She knows how to give you confidence to get through the most difficult of circumstances.

“A thoughtful, considerate, caring, dedicated carer that will go above and beyond for those she cares for – there cannot be more appropriate attributes to possess in the caring industry.”

Extra Hands offers a variety of home care visit packages across the county to suit all budgets and requirements.