Kendal's Joanne McMillan has won recognition for her 'contagious passion for caregiving'.

A manager of supported living services at Dr Manning’s Yard, she was named Team Leader of the Year at the national Housing With Care Awards.

This accolade was awarded at a gala dinner held at the Hilton Bankside Hotel in London.

Host Steve Wells described how Ms McMillan "leads by both example and fervour, steers the ship, instigates change, and upholds the core values driving the purpose of care."

Ms McMillan has served Making Space, the national health and social care charity, for nine years.

Starting her journey as a support worker, she climbed the ranks to become senior support worker and was promoted to team leader one year ago.

Ms McMillan said: "I really appreciate the thought that went into nominating me, but I honestly couldn’t do any of it without the whole team.

"It was such a shock to be told I’d been nominated, never mind hear my name announced as the national winner!

“But it is a team effort, and while I’m so grateful to be recognised and to have the opportunity to go to such a wonderful event, the award is for all of eight of us in recognition of the hard work we do, and love, every day.”

The Team Leader award is bestowed on individuals displaying unwavering commitment to enhancing care delivery and support within their organisations.

Jenny MacLeod, manager at Making Space, nominated Ms McMillan.

She said: "Joanne embodies the Making Space values of inspiring and inclusive leadership.

"She shows unwavering dedication, kindness, gratitude and passionate advocacy for colleagues and people who use our services.

"Building confident, motivated, skilled and happy teams who consistently deliver positive outcomes is integral to the Making Space commitment to ensuring everyone has a voice and feels valued.

“With leaders like Joanne, we can attract, develop and retain motivated and passionate people who put wellbeing at the heart of health and social care.

"We’re delighted that her hard work and commitment have been recognised with this award."

Shane Parnell, associate director of operations, described Ms McMillan has being 'generous with her time'.

He said: "She has a profound understanding of the roles within her team and the intricacies of the care industry, which enable her to provide strong, consistent support.

"Whether it's through implementing innovative solutions, advocating for resources, or simply lending a supportive presence, she sets standards that motivate people to be their very best."

These awards, organised by Care Talk magazine, celebrate extraordinary service in integrated retirement communities, mental health support, assisted living, extra care housing, and shared lives schemes.