THE efforts of a dedicated and upbeat care trainer have been recognised with a national award.

Caitlin Bradley works as a training manager at Bluebird Care Warrington and St Helens, where she found innovative ways throughout the pandemic to train staff above-industry standard.

This involved socially distanced training through video calls and pre-recordings of herself to ensure the team keep up with the latest coronavirus guidance.

Caitlin, 24, is also a health and safety officer, which saw her design Covid-19 risk assessments and a ‘Covid evacuation kit’ to compliment this guidance.

In light of coronavirus and the bravery, heroism and effort shown by all team members, Bluebird Care created its Covid Heroes Awards for 2020.

And the above and beyond actions of Caitlin, from Prescot, saw her named as the winner from a 15-person shortlist chosen from more than 200 franchises across the country.

“I was so humbled to find out I had been nominated as one of Bluebird Care’s Covid Heroes,” Caitlin said.

“We are all one big team here at Bluebird and to me, I am just doing my job. It has been such a nice surprise during a time that has been so different.

“I absolutely love training and am happy that I have been able to adapt our processes to make sure we stay compliant and safe.”

Warrington Guardian:

Hayley Allen, registered manager of Bluebird Care St Helens and Warrington, added: “When I heard about the Covid Hero Awards, I had no doubt that Caitlin would be my nomination.

“It has been amazing to see her grow and develop from her role as a carer up to her current position as training manager.

“She is always smiling, laughing and does everything she can to make sure our staff are trained above the industry standard, even in these strange times.

“She has kept up with everything and kept everybody motivated to be the best we can be.”

Deputy manager of Bluebird Care Warrington and St Helens, Clare Toole, was also shortlisted in the top 15 finalists for the awards.

This was in recognition of her efforts to ensure all customer visits went ahead throughout the pandemic and to inform customers of any changes to usual protocols.

Clare Armstrong, director of Bluebird Care St Helens and Warrington, said: “It has been fantastic to see Clare progress and develop into a great deputy manager during her time here at Bluebird Care.

“She is a team player, always puts others first in all that she does and we are incredibly proud of how she has dealt with the pandemic and any emergencies that have cropped up.”