Dorset teams celebrate at Dorset Care Awards

There was well-deserved recognition for Dimensions colleagues at the Dorset Care Awards recently – where we had two finalists in the Collaboration and Best Team Member categories.

For the Collaboration Award, the team from the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) region were finalists for the support they provided when they took a person we support with severe learning disabilities and complex medical requirements on their first ever holiday supported.

For best team member, Support Worker Babatunde Oladipo was celebrated for his incredible impact he’s making with us in such a short time.

Philip Mylankal, Locality Manager – BCP, said: “The trip to Jersey marked a significant milestone, as everyone worked diligently to make sure every detail was managed effectively. The team – Darina, Tracey, and Abi – played crucial roles in coordinating with James’s family (name changed to protect his privacy), healthcare providers, and travel operators to facilitate a smooth and enjoyable experience.”

The planning phase for James’s holiday involved close communication with his mother, whose insights were invaluable in understanding his specific needs.

Given his severe learning disabilities and complex medical requirements – including 24/7 care, travelling with oxygen support, CPAP use, PEG feeding, and medication administration – meticulous preparation was essential. The team worked cohesively to devise a plan that prioritised James’s safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the trip.

Once in Jersey, the careful planning and teamwork paid off. James was able to relax and enjoy new experiences in a supportive setting. The support team worked harmoniously, providing attentive care while fostering a warm and engaging atmosphere. Their dedication to balancing professional responsibilities with compassionate support created a positive and memorable experience for James.

 

 

Upon returning home, James’s happiness was evident. His continued positive demeanour reflected the profound impact of the holiday on his wellbeing.

The success of this trip was a direct result of the collaboration between the team, James’s mother, management, and external partners demonstrating the power of teamwork and dedication in enhancing the quality of life for those in supported living.

 

 

Alice Makuni, Locality Manager, said of Babatunde’s awards win: “Although new to the care sector, Babatunde has made an incredible impact in a short time. He has played a key role in improving communication, using thoughtful and personalised approaches that have helped the person he supports express themselves more clearly and confidently.

“His support has also been instrumental in encouraging healthier lifestyle choices, leading to successful weight loss and an overall improvement in wellbeing.”

Carmel Knight, Operations Director – BCP, said: “We are tremendously proud of Babatunde and the team at BCP for getting up on stage to be rightly celebrated for the hard work and dedication they show day to day. And we’re also incredibly proud of all our finalists at the ceremony – it was a great night of celebration.”

Dimensions were also proud to sponsor the Rising Star award which Vikki Lee- Dampier and Carmel Knight presented to a wonderful young man who is only 17 and has had a real emotional journey to success.