A MEMBER of staff at a dementia care home has won two coveted awards for her 'exceptionally warm and considerate' approach.

Meg Austin, 29, who works as a healthcare assistant at The Aldbury in Parkstone, was given the total of Care Personality of the Year at the National Dementia Care Awards.

Nominated by residents’ relatives and her colleagues at Colten Care, Meg was presented with her award by astrologer, broadcaster and author Russell Grant at a gala ceremony.

Speaking about the win, Meg said: "I really did not expect my name to be called out. Then I saw my picture on the stage.

"Everyone stood up and I was still sitting down. I had a delayed response.

"When I walked up to the stage, Russell Grant said: ‘You look really shell-shocked’ and I said that I was."

She added: "I am passionate that people with dementia are treated as they should be, compassionately and holistically. I really push that approach at The Aldbury and help others in the home to follow it too."

The award aims to recognise active promotion of excellence in care, peace of mind for relatives and a happy working environment. It is given to someone 'whose personality and energy has made a difference in ways that are truly inspiring and memorable.'

Listing their reasons for Meg receiving the accolade, they said: "Meg demonstrates exceptional warmth and consideration for people living with dementia.

"She inspires others around her by drawing on her own personal attributes and values. Meg appreciates every worker’s contribution to delivering outstanding dementia care."

Just a few days later, Meg heard that she had won the Dignity in Care Award for the south west region at the Great British Care Awards.

That award aims to 'demonstrate the significance of maximising client independence and choice, whilst respecting and maintaining privacy and dignity at all times'

Meg started working at The Aldbury as a carer in 2010 and has expanded her responsibilities with team leading, training and a one-to-one resident companion role.

She is now in the final year of a Southampton University degree combining general and mental health nursing.

Alan Icely-Brown, home manager at The Aldbury, said: “Huge congratulations to Meg for gaining much deserved recognition through these separate awards.

"She is a pleasure to work with and is totally focused on ensuring our home is a happy, successful care setting."