EditorBryn Terfel launches hunt for Swansea’s hidden care heroes
The search is now officially underway for the annual awards, which shine a spotlight on the remarkable staff working in care homes and home‑care services across Wales.
Among the top accolades is the Sir Bryn Terfel Foundation Award, celebrating outstanding work bringing the arts into social care settings — something the world‑famous bass‑baritone says is close to his heart.
Call to honour the “backbone of our communities”
Sir Bryn, a long‑time supporter of the awards, is urging colleagues, managers and families to put names forward — not just for the award carrying his name, but for every category recognising excellence across the profession.
Sir Bryn Terfel said:
“Every day, social care staff go above and beyond, often without the recognition that they richly deserve. Supporting the Wales Care Awards is my way of helping to shine a light on their incredible work.
“These people are the backbone of our communities. Families rely on their compassion and skill, and it is only right that we celebrate the difference they make to people’s lives across Wales.
“I’d urge colleagues, relatives and managers to take a moment to think about someone who deserves recognition. A nomination can mean the world to those who give so much.”
Awards for frontline heroes across the sector
This year’s categories include honours for frontline care practitioners, nurses, chefs, dementia specialists and those championing fulfilled lives, alongside awards for outstanding service in the sector.
Every finalist will walk away with a gold, silver or bronze award — “a bit like the Olympics”, organisers say.
The glittering ceremony will take place at Holland House Hotel, Cardiff, on Friday, October 16.
“A chance to say thank you”
The awards were founded by Mario Kreft MBE, chair of Care Forum Wales, to recognise the “fantastic work” of frontline staff and promote excellence across the sector.
Mario Kreft said:
“The Wales Care Awards are all about saying thank you to the people who keep the social care network going. If you know somebody who consistently goes the extra mile, this is your chance to make sure they get the credit they deserve.
“Whether it’s a brilliant nurse, a dedicated chef or anybody who never fails to deliver, please put their names forward. The process is simple and the impact is huge.
“The awards night is a rare opportunity for staff to come together, share ideas and enjoy an evening that’s entirely about them. It’s a celebration of the sector at its very best.”
Nominations close on January 31, and full details of all categories can be found at walescareawards.co.uk.
Related stories from Swansea Bay News
Super-smart science graduate turned social care worker eyes up national awards glory
A former science student is shortlisted for top honours after switching careers to social care.
Award glory beckons for outgoing care worker
A much-loved care worker is recognised for her dedication as she reaches the national finals.
Tears of joy as care home cook June serves up success
A Swansea care home cook is overwhelmed after earning a place among Wales’ top care professionals.
Port Talbot care home worker shortlisted for ‘social care Oscars’
A dedicated care worker from Port Talbot is named among the finalists for Wales’ top care awards.
Swansea care worker who made 102-year-old’s cheeky wish come true honoured with national award
A Swansea carer is celebrated for going the extra mile to bring joy to a centenarian resident.
Swansea grandfather who turned redundancy into opportunity is toasting national awards glory
A Swansea grandfather is recognised nationally after transforming his life through a new career in care.
