A LEADING social care charity has been shortlisted for an award.

Community Integrated Care, with its headquarters in Widnes, is in the running for the 'Care Employer' award at the 2024 Great North West Care Awards.

The awards ceremony, which celebrates the best in social care, will be held on November 9 at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel in Manchester.

The charity is also nominated in three other categories, highlighting the significant impact it has on both its employees and the individuals it supports.

The 'Care Employer' award recognises organisations that prioritise the support and development of their workforce while providing excellent care.

Community Integrated Care has made notable advancements in the past year.

These include digital innovations to improve the lives of employees and those they support, as well as investing more than £5 million in employee pay.

They have also provided essential wellbeing and financial support through initiatives like the Wellbeing Fund and partnerships with Everymind at Work and Salary Finance.

Additionally, they have taken part in 14 national and international events promoting accessibility, inclusion, and social impact, and have established life-changing partnerships with organisations such as British Cycling and London Zoo.

These partnerships offer enriching experiences for the individuals they support.

The charity has also strengthened its expertise in complex care by creating a dedicated governance group focused on improving the quality of care for individuals with higher support needs.

Samantha Brennan, managing director for the North West at Community Integrated Care, said: "Being shortlisted for the Care Employer award is an incredible honour and a powerful reflection of our unwavering commitment to both our colleagues and the people we support.

"We are relentless in our pursuit of excellence - whether it’s through investing in our colleagues’ wellbeing, driving forward digital innovations, or forging partnerships that enrich lives.

"At Community Integrated Care, we don’t just create a place to work; we create a place where people can thrive, grow, and make a real difference."

She added: "We’re absolutely delighted to be nominated in four categories this year.

"It’s a testament to the passion and dedication of our colleagues, who go above and beyond every day to ensure the people we support lead fulfilling and empowered lives.

"From delivering transformative experiences for individuals with complex needs to helping people transition from long-term hospital care into vibrant community settings, I couldn’t be prouder of what our team has achieved."

Community Integrated Care supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health conditions across the North West, and employs more than 1,000 dedicated colleagues in the region.

The organisation, founded in Halton 36 years ago, is now one of the largest and most successful care providers in the UK.

The Great North West Care Awards celebrate excellence in social care, and the winners will progress to the national finals of the Great British Care Awards in March 2025, where the achievements of social care workers across the UK will be recognised.