Top national award for Fylde Coast manager transforming local care
A Fylde Coast care manager who has helped shape a supportive, high-quality and people-focused care service has been recognised on the national stage.
Donna Rutherford, Registered Manager at Visiting Angels in Fylde Coast, has been named Care Manager of the Year at their national conference. The award reflects the outstanding standard of care delivered under her leadership and the strong, confident team she has helped build.
Under Donna’s guidance, the Fylde Coast office has enjoyed an exceptional year. Families have shared more than 125 five-star Google reviews, praising the consistency and compassion of the care provided. The office also achieved an overall ‘Outstanding’ rating in its independent audit – feedback from the independent auditor described the client outcomes as the best he had ever seen in his career.
“Donna has been instrumental in everything we’ve achieved this year,” said Lisa Footman, Managing Director of Visiting Angels in Fylde Coast. “We’re delighted with our growth, of course, but what really matters is the quality behind it. Our reviews and our Outstanding audit rating are a direct reflection of Donna’s commitment and the standards she sets for the whole team.”
Lisa also highlighted Donna’s thoughtful decision-making and her focus on investing in people. “As we’ve grown as a business, she wanted to put profits straight back into carer pay, team leaders and additional training,” Lisa said. “It was absolutely the right call. That choice strengthened our structure and helped us prepare for the future in the best possible way.”
Her influence reaches far beyond day-to-day operations, shaping the culture that carers and clients experience. “Donna always jokes that Visiting Angels Fylde Coast is her baby, not mine – and honestly, I agree,” Lisa added. “She pours so much care and pride into what she does. This award couldn’t be more deserved.”
Visiting Angels’ ‘carer-centric’ approach sets it apart from other companies in the in-home care sector. Carers working for Visiting Angels feel valued and respected for their commitment to the industry. By offering financial rewards and avenues for career development, Visiting Angels are committed to addressing industry challenges that frequently leave caregivers feeling undervalued and underappreciated.
“I’m absolutely chuffed – but this award isn’t really about me, it’s about the whole team,” said Donna. “Their trust in me and the way they show up every day is what makes our service what it is. This recognition is a testament to their hard work, their compassion and the pride they take in looking after our families.
“I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come together. You don’t work in care for accolades, but it does mean a lot to see the team’s efforts celebrated nationally.”
For more information, or to find out how Visiting Angels could support your loved one, visit www.visiting-angels.co.uk/fyldecoast or call the team on 01253 834523.