Winsford nurse recognised with prestigious award

Karen Roberts, who is a registered learning disabilities nurse and a Queen's nurse, had been attending the Birmingham Care Show on October 10 when she was presented with a prestigious award.

Following a panel discussion at the Outstanding Society Lounge, Karen received the gold award for Outstanding Services to Social Care from Deborah Sturdy, the UK government's chief nurse for adult social care.

"I was delighted to give Karen a Chief Nurse for Adult Care award," said Deborah.

"She epitomises the qualities we need to see in our leaders. As a learning disabilities nurse, she helps shine the light on the specialism on a national stage.

"Her passion for social care nursing is evident, and her drive to promote the profession in social care is palpable. She is truly deserving of this recognition."

Karen also works for the UK's largest supported living provider, Lifeways, as the head of health and clinical governance.

Back in June this year, she marched alongside around 100 other nurses in Pride in London, marking the first time social care organisations from across the UK have been formally involved in the annual parade.

Karen Roberts with her certificate at the Care Show in Birmingham (Image: Supplied)

Alongside her role, Karen also co-chairs the North East and Yorkshire Social Care Nursing Advisory Council (SCNAC), which the Outstanding Society supports on behalf of the chief nurse.

These seven regional councils are part of every one of England’s 42 Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), which are NHS organisations responsible for planning health services for their local population.

Karen began working at Lifeways in 1998 – just three years after the supported living provide was established.

She became the group head of health and clinical governance in 2018 but has held multiple roles during her time with the company.

“Karen has worked for Lifeways for 26 years and has continually kept people at the heart of discussions and decision-making,” said Gareth Roberts (no relation), Lifeways’ quality director.

“This gold award validates the great work Karen does for nursing within social care.

"Lifeways is lucky to have a dedicated and committed team member who lives and breathes person-centred approaches and influences policy across the sector."