Praxis Care Staff Awards 2026: Celebrating Excellence Across Our Organisation
Recognising the colleagues who go above and beyond to make a positive difference in the lives of the people we support.
At Praxis Care, we know that outstanding care and support begin with outstanding people. Every day, colleagues across our services and corporate teams make a difference by empowering individuals, working collaboratively, and bringing our values to life through their dedication, professionalism and compassion.
Our annual Staff Awards recognise the exceptional people and teams who go above and beyond to support those we work with, inspire colleagues and strengthen our organisation. We are delighted to celebrate this year’s winners and thank them for their incredible dedication, passion and commitment.
Meet out 2026 Staff Award Winners!
Co-production Award Winner – Ballymena Supported Living Service
The Ballymena Supported Living Service team has demonstrated the true meaning of co-production; winning this award for placing the people they support at the centre of a major transition to independent living. As individuals moved from a shared living model into their own apartments, the team worked closely with each person and their families to ensure their wishes, preferences and goals shaped every decision.
The result has been life-changing. People have settled into homes that reflect who they are, developed stronger community connections and accessed opportunities tailored to their interests, from training and volunteering to wellbeing activities. The team’s commitment to listening, involving and empowering people demonstrates co-production at its very best.
Living the Values Award Winner – Plasden Court
Plasden Court received this award for consistently bringing Praxis Care’s values to life through inclusion, empowerment and person-centred support. The team actively encourages people to pursue their goals, develop independence and participate fully in their communities.
A standout achievement has been their focus on creating new opportunities. From introducing fitness and wellbeing activities to supporting individuals to plan and enjoy trips across the UK and internationally, the team has helped people build confidence, develop new skills and achieve goals that once seemed beyond reach.
Their dedication to creating opportunities and supporting meaningful outcomes has had a lasting impact on the lives of the people within their service.
Innovation Award Winner – Templemore Supported Living Service
The Templemore Supported Living Service won this award for their creative and determined approach to supporting an individual with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Rather than focusing on barriers, the team continually finds innovative ways to create opportunities for meaningful experiences and community participation.
Through carefully tailored support, they have enabled the individual to enjoy holidays, social outings, wellbeing activities and community experiences that enhance quality of life and promote inclusion. Their ability to think differently and find solutions has had a significant and lasting impact.
Outstanding Teamwork Award Winner – Payroll Team
While often working behind the scenes, the Payroll Team plays a vital role in ensuring that every employee can trust that one of the most important aspects of their working life is handled accurately, efficiently and with care.
What particularly impressed the judging panel was the team’s strong culture of support, where knowledge is shared freely, new colleagues are encouraged and challenges are tackled collectively. Their success is built on trust, cooperation and a shared commitment to excellence. This award recognises the vital contribution they make to supporting colleagues across all our services.
Developing Self & Others Award Winner – Saqab Ahmad, Plasden Court
Saqab received this award in recognition of the significant role he plays in developing and supporting colleagues. During his 20 years with Praxis Care, he has become a trusted mentor whose guidance, experience and encouragement have helped many team members grow in confidence and capability.
Known for his patience and willingness to help others succeed, Saqab consistently shares his knowledge and supports colleagues through challenges and change. His positive influence has strengthened both individuals and the wider team.
Rising Star Award Winner – Gillian Johnston, Drogheda Day Service
Since joining Praxis Care just over a year ago with no previous experience in social care, Gillian has embraced every opportunity to develop her skills and make a positive difference.
She impressed judges with her enthusiasm for learning, commitment to professional development and ability to make a meaningful difference to the people she supports.
Alongside studying for a QQI qualification in Health and Social Care, Gillian has taken the initiative to create new opportunities for community participation, including developing links with local organisations and organising inclusive activities. Her passion, creativity and potential make her a worthy Rising Star.
Corporate Services Colleague of the Year – Robyn Carson, Quality & Governance
Robyn was selected for this award because of the exceptional support she provides to colleagues across the organisation. Widely respected for her professionalism and expertise, she is someone people regularly turn to for guidance, advice and practical assistance.
Despite often working behind the scenes, Robyn’s impact is felt throughout Praxis Care. Her collaborative approach, willingness to help and commitment to achieving the best outcomes for services and colleagues have earned her the respect and appreciation of teams across the organisation.
Support Worker of the Year – Emer Clerkin, Monaghan Brookvale
Emer received this award in recognition of nearly 13 years of exceptional commitment to the people she supports. Her compassionate, person-centred approach helps individuals build confidence, maintain independence and achieve meaningful outcomes.
Emer consistently goes above and beyond to advocate for those she supports, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs met
She is also a valued source of support for her colleagues. New team members are welcomed warmly, and Emer is always willing to share her knowledge and experience to help others develop confidence in their roles. Her unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality support truly exemplifies excellence in care.
Team Leader of the Year – Ciara Brennan, Dunboyne Day Service
Ciara leads with confidence, empathy and professionalism. Ciara was recognised for her outstanding leadership during a significant period of change within Dunboyne Day Service. She played a key role in supporting people through a temporary relocation during renovations and ensuring a successful return to their refurbished environment.
Throughout the process, Ciara maintained a strong focus on communication, planning and person-centred support. Her calm and supportive leadership helped colleagues feel confident and ensured those supported experienced a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
She is a strong advocate for both her colleagues and the people we support, always ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are considered. Ciara’s leadership, positivity and commitment have earned the trust and respect of colleagues and stakeholders alike, making her a deserving Team Leader of the Year.
Manager of the Year – Debbie Thompson, Foyle Young People
Debbie was recognised as this year’s Manager of the Year in recognition of her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment, and the significant positive impact she has made on both the young people she supports and the colleagues she leads.
Debbie’s compassionate and inspiring approach has helped create a nurturing environment where young people feel safe, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. Through building strong, trusting relationships and providing consistent encouragement, she supports young people to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and grow in confidence as they prepare for their future.
Her leadership extends beyond the young people in her care. Debbie has successfully guided her team through periods of challenge and change while maintaining a positive, supportive culture and an unwavering focus on delivering high-quality care. She leads by example, fostering collaboration, encouraging professional development, and ensuring that both colleagues and young people receive the support they need to thrive.
CEO Award Winner – Ballymena Supported Living Service
The CEO Award is a special recognition personally selected by our CEO, Carol Breen, to honour an individual or team that has made an exceptional impact while embodying the values of Praxis Care.
This year, the award was presented to Ballymena Supported Living Service. Over the past eighteen months, the team has empowered people to become more independent, connected and confident. Through a strong commitment to person-centred support and co-production, they have helped individuals build friendships, pursue new interests, strengthen community connections and take greater control of their lives, making them truly deserving recipients of this year’s CEO Award.
Congratulations to All Our Winners!
These awards celebrate more than individual achievements; they recognise the compassion, dedication and excellence demonstrated across Praxis Care every day.
To all of our winners and finalists, thank you for the remarkable difference you make. Your commitment to empowering people, supporting communities and living our values continues to inspire us all and helps make Praxis Care a truly exceptional organisation. 💜