A compassionate care expert is in line for an award for ensuring people reaching the end of their lives have a dignified death. Sophie Smith, 27, who is a trainer at the Pendine Park care organisation in Wrexham, has developed a reputation for delivering exceptional palliative care. Sophie, who lives in Brynteg, has been shortlisted for the Excellence in Palliative and End-of-life Care Award at the 2024 Wales Care Awards.
She said: "I was surprised to be nominated. "My focus has always been on simply giving the best care possible to each person and their family." Sophie's journey into care began when she worked part-time at Pendine Park as an admin assistant.
Despite obtaining a master's degree in law, she decided to return to work in palliative care, realising the importance of respectful and compassionate end-of-life care. One of the reasons Sophie was nominated for the award was her work in changing the advanced care plans completed by nurses. She felt they were too clinical and required a personal touch.
This includes understanding a person's favourite music, who they want around them, and even whether they would want the curtains open or closed. Ms Smith said: "What we do stays with people for a lifetime. "Losing a loved one is always difficult so we need to do all we can to support them and that is what drives me.
" Fellow trainer Laura Shone praised Sophie's dedication, adding: "Sophie showed her passion for care through coronavirus and volunteered to work in the isolation unit with some very poorly residents, some of whom had Covid. "She makes dignity in death less of a scary and intimidating idea and more of a beautiful experience." The 2024 Wales Care Awards presentation ceremony will be held at Holland House, Cardiff, on October 18.
The event will be hosted by radio and TV presenter Jason Mohammad. Mario Kreft MBE, chair of the Wales Care Awards, said: "Our aim is to recognise the unstinting and often remarkable dedication of our unsung heroes and heroines on the front line of social care across Wales. "The care sector is full of wonderful people because it’s not just a job, it’s a vocation – these are the people who really do have the X Factor.
" "It is a pleasure to honour the contribution of all the finalists. "Each and every one of them should be very proud of their achievement.".
