THE manager of an Overton care home has said she is 'so proud' after it was crowned Residential Care Home of the Year at an industry awards ceremony.

Beech Tree Care Home scooped the award at the Hampshire Care Awards 2024, an annual ceremony to recognise 'amazing' work in the care sector.

Manager Sarah Hughes said it is the first time the care home has entered the awards, receiving nominations in a number of other categories. 

READ MORE: Improvements to maternity services at Hampshire Hospitals recognised

Staff at the care home with manager Sarah Hughes (second from right) (Image: NQ)

She said it feels 'amazing' to win the award, adding: "It represents the whole team and shows the teamwork that goes in every day, and it shows in the certificate.

"It means the world to all of us and I'm so proud of everybody, all of our team. It's like validation that we are all doing a good job.

The care home, owned by Select Healthcare Group, provides residential care and respite care to more than 50 residents across three floors, with a patio, lounges, a salon and a dentist.

Sarah continued: "I enjoy my job, but I really enjoy it because I've got lots of support around me, and the team all work together, that's the best bit, as well as our residents."

SEE ALSO: Teenagers take part in 'mindful walk' to raise awareness of mental health charity

Family members of residents at the home, as well as members of the public, nominated Beech Tree for the top award, along with Nursing Home of the Year and Outstanding Innovation and Best Practice.

Sarah said that working in a care home is a 'demanding' job, adding that staff 'work long hours all of the time'.

"They go the extra mile and there's a sense of goodwill all the time, and that's what makes it different I think to other care homes, that people are doing it for love some of the time, not just for money.

"I'm just so proud of everyone," finished Sarah.