A HEALTHCARE assistant has been named care home worker of the year for the East of England.

Jackie Smith, who works at specialist nursing and dementia care homes Foxburrow Grange on Ypres Road, Colchester, was given the award at the Great British Care Awards gala dinner at Norwich City’s Carrow Road ground last week.

She was praised for her calm demeanour and natural rapport with the residents as well as helping to keep residents entertained with singing and dancing.

She said: “I am thrilled and excited to have won.

“It’s always nice to be appreciated and my mum will be so proud.”

Manager of Foxburrow Grange Anne Cooper said: “I am absolutely delighted that one of our employees is a winner in the category of best care worker.

“Jackie typifies our staff who put people at the centre of all they do, ensuring they live a full life with dignity and purpose.

“Jackie demonstrates energy, passion and enthusiasm, ensuring people maintain as much independence and control over their lives as possible.

“An outstanding achievement and one of which we are very proud to celebrate.”