Nurse recognised in national award for services to social care

Karen Roberts, a Queen’s Nurse and head of health and clinical governance for supported living provider Lifeways, has been given the Gold Award for Outstanding Services to Social Care.

“She helps shine the light on the specialism on a national stage”

Deborah Sturdy

The award recognises Ms Roberts’ work within social care across her career, which has included a 26-year-and-counting stint at Lifeways, which provides support for adults living with complex and diverse needs.

She recieved the award at the Care Show Birmingham this week. She was at the event for a panel session run by the Outstanding Society, after which England’s chief nurse for adult social care Professor Deborah Sturdy presented her with the award.

Ms Roberts is currently co-chair of the North East and Yorkshire Social Care Nursing Advisory Council, which works to raise the profile of adult social care nursing in the region and is supported by the Outstanding Society.

As well as this, earlier this year she took part in the first London Pride March in which social care organisations formally participated together to represent the sector.

Professor Sturdy, after presenting Ms Roberts with her award, said: “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,” said Professor Sturdy.

“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.”

Gareth Roberts, quality director at Lifeways, said: “Karen has worked for Lifeways for 26 years and has continually kept people at the heart of discussions and decision-making.

“This [award] validates the great work Karen does for nursing within social care,” he said.

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