Care manager wins award

A local care manager has won an award celebrating his contribution to caring services across Northern Ireland.

Health Minister Jim Wells praised John Rafferty, Registered Care Manager at Bannview House Care Home in Banbridge, as one of eight winners at last week’s Northern Ireland Independent Care Awards, organised by Independent Health & Care Providers (IHCP).

John, winner in the Registered Care Manager category, picked up the award after building a great relationship with the 80 residents at the home, having the ability to improve staff morale and thus quality of care, but also for engaging the local community.

He has developed partnerships with local schools so that students both visit and get involved in volunteering at the home.

He had been nominated as one of three finalists in his category before picking up the gong at the recent ceremony at the Ramada Hotel in Belfast.

Mr Wells, who was recently appointed Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, attended the awards to acknowledge the work of the whole independent health and care sector and commend both winners and other nominees.

“The Northern Ireland Independent Care Awards 2014 is a showcase event, allowing us to acknowledge the selfless work and outstanding achievements of care workers across Northern Ireland,” said Mr Wells.

“We have a thriving mixed economy of care here in Northern Ireland, and I am well aware of and appreciate the contribution the independent sector makes to this very successful partnership.”