People across Staffordshire are being invited to nominate carers, work colleagues, friends and family members for a special award.

The 2021 Staffordshire Dignity in Care Awards, now in their seventh year, recognise organisations and individuals who care for the most vulnerable amongst us, with dignity and compassion.

The Awards, which launch on dignity Action Day on Monday 1 February, are open to anyone who works in the care sector as well as informal and young carers.

Amongst those encouraging people to make a nomination are Megan and Lucie Woodworth. The sisters were both recognised in the 2020 Awards for their work providing informal care during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Megan said: "Being highly commended at last year's awards was very special for myself and my little sister as we just do it to help others. We love to be able to do this as you never know when you will need that help yourselves. I would encourage people to nominate as it's not always about being rewarded, it's about recognising someone's efforts at such a hard time. But to us everyone is a winner by giving their time up to help others."

Vikki Sylvester, winner of last year's Professional Dignity Champion Award said: "It is a very special experience to receive an award because the value of dignity to people is often not recognised.

"Yes I won the award, however, awards are not about one person they are about people coming together to act in the best interests of others and more importantly to have a positive impact on people's lives. That's why it is so important to nominate people for an award. All the good work gets recognised, shared and hopefully inspires more people to help others."

Johnny McMahon, Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing at Staffordshire County Council is also encouraging people to nominate someone for an award. Johnny said: "Our Dignity in Care Awards are something we look forward to every year. They give us the chance to celebrate the best of the care sector here in Staffordshire and everyone who provides care.

"It's an important event for the sector and everyone who works in it but last year's and this year's awards are even more special as we recognise those delivering care throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

"As in previous years, we are celebrating both organisations and individuals, whether it be an informal carer or those working in the profession. So whether you know someone who always goes the extra mile for someone they look after or a fabulous care company, then get them nominated."

There are 9 categories in this year's awards, including Dignity Champion, Leadership Award, Young Dignity Champion and Informal Carer of the Year, Home Care / Extra care Dignity Champion, Professional, Informal Carer and Voluntary/Community support.

Anna Majkut, winner for Residential & Nursing Care Home Dignity Champion award last year, said: "I always loved people, more than anything else and when I first started working in the care sector, it felt like a vocation. Working in care is a very rewarding profession, but it's also a tough one.

"Being nominated for a Dignity in Care award and then being chosen as a winner made me feel incredible. I felt recognised, honoured and needed and I would now like to encourage others to nominate their friends, family, or anyone working in care for an award and to make them feel special."

If you would like to nominate someone for an award, click here. People can also request a hard copy of the nomination form by calling 01785 355795 or emailing [email protected]