Tina Collins of Leonard Lodge in Hutton is a divisional Carer of the Year in the Barchester Care Awards 2026, picked from almost 6,000 nominations.
A care worker at Leonard Lodge Care Home in Hutton has been named a divisional winner in the Barchester Care Awards 2026, and is now through to the national round.
Tina Collins joined Leonard Lodge in 2025. Her certificate, held up in the photograph the home sent us, reads “Carer of the Year” and “Divisional Winner 2026”. The home says the award recognises her compassion and her commitment to treating every resident with dignity and respect.
Picked from almost 6,000 nominations
The Barchester Care Awards are run by Barchester Healthcare, which operates Leonard Lodge, to recognise staff who go above and beyond for the people they support. Almost 6,000 nominations came in this year from Barchester homes and hospitals across the UK, according to the company.
Winning her division qualified Ms Collins for the national round of the 2026 awards.
To mark the win she was given a bouquet of flowers, a gift voucher and a card, and colleagues at the home gathered to celebrate with her.
“The smallest acts of kindness”
Ms Collins said:
“I have always believed that the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference. Every smile, every conversation and every moment of reassurance matters. Since I joined Leonard Lodge in 2025, I have had the opportunity to bring my experience and passion for care to a wonderful team. Receiving this award is such an honour, and I am grateful to the residents and colleagues who make every day special.”
Corina Popescu, general manager at Leonard Lodge, said the recognition was earned:
“Tina brought a wealth of experience in care when she joined Leonard Lodge in 2025, and her divisional award is thoroughly deserved. Her compassion, patience and genuine human connection make a real difference to our residents. We are incredibly proud of her achievement and delighted to see her dedication recognised.”
About Leonard Lodge
Leonard Lodge Care Home in Hutton provides residential, nursing and dementia care, and is one of the homes Barchester Healthcare runs across the UK. The home can be reached on 01277 263939.
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