IF YOU know a carer who you feel deserves recognition for their hard work and compassion, you can nominate them for a special award.

Dozens of nominations for this year’s Care Awards have already arrived at the Care Focus offices – and there’s still time to put forward more names.

Workers from the statutory, independent and voluntary sectors are all considered for the accolades, as well as micro organisations, unpaid carers and volunteers across children’s, learning disabilities, adults care, housing and health communities.

The 12 award categories are: new to care, outstanding volunteer/unpaid carer, unsung hero, outstanding ancillary worker, outstanding commitment to learning and development, quality specialist, end of life care, excellence in leadership, outstanding care/support/healthcare worker (Tim Catley-Day Award), outstanding care team, care organisation of the year, and outstanding contribution.

A more in-depth description and judging criteria for the awards can be downloaded from the website, along with help and guidance, terms and conditions and nomination forms – click on www.carefocussw.co.uk/careawards.

Nominations close February 1, with finalists announced later that month and a gala awards evening at Wellsprings Leisure Centre, Taunton, on Friday, April 22.