A DEDICATED care worker has been honoured by The Queen.
Aby Joseph, a clinical services manager at Alveston Leys Bupa Care Home in Stratford, has been awarded an honorary British Empire Medal in recognition of his services to the care home residents during the pandemic.
The 35-year-old has worked at Bupa for nine years and moved to Alveston Leys two years ago, joining as a nurse and progressing to clinical services manager. He also stepped up to manage the home, while the home manager was on maternity leave.
Aby was nominated for the award for going above and beyond to provide care and selfless support to residents and colleagues.
Aby has a young family, though voluntarily moved into the home to provide round-the-clock support for residents and his peers.
He also helped residents stay connected with their families, reassuring them that their loved one was safe and well in the home.
Home manager Nicola French said: “Aby shows skill, compassion and empathy that would take people a lifetime to learn. He is a shining example of someone who genuinely has others’ best interests at heart.
“The past year has been exceptionally challenging, and I can’t imagine where we’d be without him. Aby is exceptional in the care he provides to all those around him, and we are all delighted that Aby has received royal recognition, by way of a British Empire Medal.”
Aby’s kindness also extended to colleagues. When a nurse at the home who had no family in the UK was hospitalised with COVID-19, Aby became his key contact and safely supported him with shopping and meals, and checked on his wellbeing and recovery.
The residents at Aby’s care home are also delighted that Aby has received the award.
John Bellinger commented: “The dedicated hard work Aby has put in is hugely appreciated. I was very well looked after when I had COVID-19, so many congratulations to Aby for receiving this award.”
And Jean Roberts, added: “This illustrates what an excellent worker Aby is. He is a friendly individual, and this award is well-deserved.”
Alveston Leys will be holding a special presentation ceremony for Aby in December, for the official presentation of the British Empire Medal.
