A compassionate care expert from Wrexham has been honoured with two gold awards at the social care Oscars. Trainer Sophie Smith, 27, won the Gold award for Excellence in Palliative and End-of-life Care Award – sponsored by Hallmark Luxury Care Homes – at the 2024 Wales Care Awards. She was nominated for delivering exceptional palliative care and end-of-life care training at the Pendine Park care organisation in Wrexham.
But Sophie, from Brynteg, was surprised when her outstanding work was recognised with a second Gold award, this time in the Dignity in Care category sponsored by the Welsh Government. She received her award from Jeremy Miles MS, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care. “I was totally stunned,” said Sophie.
“I knew I was in the running for the first award and I was shocked to win that. “I went to the awards with my friend and when they announced the Dignity in Care award I didn’t even realise they called my name. It was only when she started screaming that I’d won that it clicked,” This year’s presentation ceremony, sponsored by Ontex Healthcare, was held at Holland House, Cardiff, on October 18 and was hosted by radio and TV presenter Jason Mohammad.
“None of us really know what happens after we pass away – and that’s why I feel it is important to ensure that at every stage of care – even after a patient passes – we treat them and their families with respect and dignity,” said Sophie. After working part-time at Pendine Park.
