An over 55s community in Whitchurch, Shropshire is celebrating after being named a finalist in a prestigious National Care Award, less than two years after opening its doors.
Hazelwood, a ShireLiving scheme – part of Housing Plus Group, has been shortlisted in the Housing with Care category at the National Care Awards; recognising the outstanding support, care and sense of community that has been created for residents.
Scheme Manager Martyna said the nomination came as a complete surprise and has been a source of immense pride for both residents and colleagues.
“We don’t know who nominated us, which makes it even more special,” she said. “Reading the nomination was incredibly moving because it sounded exactly like the way our residents and their families speak about Hazelwood every day.
“I’m very proud of my team and very proud of Hazelwood. We’ve only been open for around 18 months, so to be shortlisted for such a significant national award is a huge achievement in itself.”
Resident Marie shared with us what makes Hazelwood such a special place to call home.
Marie praised the dedication of the staff, describing them as “brilliant” and saying they “work their socks off”. She added that residents can approach staff with any concerns, knowing they will do everything they can to help.
Speaking about the nomination, Marie said: “I hope they win. So much hard work has gone into everything here.”
While Martyna and the team are looking forward to the awards ceremony, and while they would love to win the award they are proud to be nominated.
“If we don’t win, we’re winners anyway,” she said. “To be selected from so many schemes across the country is massive, and we’re incredibly grateful.”
Located in Whitchurch, Shropshire, Hazelwood is a community for people aged 55 and over, offering 71 modern apartments alongside tailored care and support services. The scheme forms part of the wider Pauls Moss development, a major regeneration project for the town that also includes the new Clayton Health Centre and other community facilities.
To find out more about living in a ShireLiving apartment and to apply, visit ShireLiving.co.uk
To apply to work at Hazelwood and other ShireLiving schemes, visit
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