Jenny Forrest announced best in the North West

Jenny Forrest, our activities and wellbeing coordinator at Croston Park, has been crowned winner of The Care Home Activities Organiser Award for the North West Region at the 2025 Great British Care Awards, building on her success as a runner up in the previous year.

The awards ceremony, recently held in Manchester, recognised outstanding individuals across the social care sector, celebrating those who consistently demonstrate innovation, compassion, professional excellence, and exceptional commitment in improving the lives of those they support.

Jenny joined Croston Park in December 2011 as a care assistant, progressing into her current role whilst also serving as the home’s Dignity and Dementia Champion. She continues to remain at the forefront of best practice and advances in care, undergoing continuous development, training, and learning.

Judges praised Jenny as: “A truly creative individual who constantly seeks out new and meaningful ways to support their residents. They go above and beyond to ensure each person feels valued, understood, and cared for, often thinking outside the box to bring fresh ideas, solutions, and compassionate approaches to everyday challenges.”

During the past year, Jenny has led several initiatives at Croston Park, including themed cultural experiences, music and movement programmes, and intergenerational community partnerships designed to widen meaningful connection and belonging for residents living in the home.

Jenny said: “Winning this award means so much to me, and I’m overwhelmed to have been recognised in this way. Everything I do is for our residents, they are the heart of our home and being able to bring joy, purpose, and meaningful moments into their days is the reason I love what I do.

“It was very special to celebrate this with my colleagues and friends who continually drive us all forward to deliver the highest standards of person-centred care.”

Alongside Jenny’s success, Maureen Kelly was Highly Commended for Outstanding Contribution to Social Care at this year’s awards. Maureen has been a vital part of Croston Park for an incredible 36 years, working in a range of roles from administration and reception to her current position as Hospitality Manager. Her recognition highlights not only her personal dedication and professionalism, but also the caring, community spirit she has adopted over the years.

Chris Lane, chairman of operator, Park Lane Healthcare, said: “We are absolutely delighted for Jenny and immensely proud of the dedication, imagination and passion she brings to her work every single day. Her constant desire to create new opportunity, new experience, and new moments of joy for our residents is exceptional.

“We are equally proud of Maureen’s achievements; her 36 years of service and unwavering commitment to residents, families, and colleagues, represent the values of Croston Park and Park Lane Healthcare. Both awards are thoroughly deserved.”