We are delighted to announce that our very own Katie Nazurally, Team Leader at Milnshaw House, has been crowned the winner of the Rising Star Award at this year’s 2024 Care Awards.
The award “recognises exceptional talent and potential in individuals who have demonstrated remarkable growth and impact in their sector within a short period.”
“I am extremely proud of Katie. She deserves all the recognition for the hard work and dedication she shows daily towards supporting staff, management, and residents we support. I look forward to Katie continuing to work alongside me to make Milnshaw House exceptional.” – Chloe Hills, Service Manager at Milnshaw House
Thank you for taking the time to talk to us, Katie! Can you tell us about your career at Northern Healthcare?
I started my career at Northern Healthcare as a Team Leader at Milnshaw House in May 2022.
Within my role, I work alongside the Service Manager to oversee a team of Support Workers. Our team provides care and support to individuals with a range of mental health and learning disability diagnoses. I also help the team create and implement care and support plans, coordinate support for the residents and ensure the wellbeing and safety of residents within our service.
I also play a key role in managing staff performance, providing support and guidance to the team, carrying out supervisions and appraisals, and coordinating rotas. This is all whilst forming and maintaining positive professional relationships with external services and professionals.
Every day is different, there is always a new challenge or opportunity which is one of the things I love about my role!
How did you get into your role?
Before starting my role, I was completing my undergraduate degree with a Bachelor of Science in Sexual Health Studies and working with adults who have learning disabilities, challenging behaviours and additional support needs.
I was looking for a new challenge and had an interest in mental health, I have always been passionate about helping others and promoting wellbeing. I have seen the impact that mental health illness, poor wellbeing, trauma, addiction, and mental health stigma can have on individuals and their families. I wanted to be able to make a difference for the people we support and the role with Northern Healthcare stood out to me.
What challenges do you face at work?
Supporting individuals in crisis or those who are struggling with mental health illness can be challenging at times.
I recognise the importance of taking care of myself to be able to effectively support others. I like to encourage open communication between team members to share their thoughts and feelings, seek help when needed and utilise the wellbeing resources provided by Northern Healthcare.
What attracted you to Northern Healthcare?
I was initially attracted to Northern Healthcare because of the organisation’s PROUD values and its open commitment to providing high-quality care and support to individuals.
I wanted the opportunity to work within an organisation that celebrates hard work and achievements and encourages continuous learning and professional development.
Congratulations on winning the Rising Star Award at the 2024 Care Awards! How does it feel to be rewarded for all your hard work?
It feels incredibly rewarding to be acknowledged for my efforts and to know that my contributions are making a positive impact.
I feel so grateful to have been nominated and to have won this award.
What qualities and skills do you think contributed to your win at the 2024 Care Awards?
I am a very caring, empathetic, and hard-working person; skills that have contributed towards being nominated and winning this award.
What is next for you?
I am undertaking my Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker qualification as part of my role with Northern Healthcare. I look forward to completing this in the next couple of months!
I would like to continue seeking opportunities for self-improvement and professional development.
What are your career goals at Northern Healthcare?
My career goal at Northern Healthcare is to continue contributing towards providing high-quality support to residents, management, and the team, whilst enhancing my skills and knowledge.
I aspire to grow and progress within the organisation, taking on new challenges and responsibilities that will allow me to make a positive impact on both resident care and the overall success of Northern Healthcare.
Please join us in congratulating Katie, we are immensely PROUD of her achievement.
We are always looking for great talent to join our team here at Northern Healthcare.
Find out more about working for Northern Healthcare, and view our current vacancies here.