Connect2Care, one of the UK’s leading providers of training and apprenticeships in the health and social care sector, is proud to announce that it has won the Business Supplier of the Year Award at the 2024 Leaders in Care Awards. The ceremony, held at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham on the eve of the Care Show, celebrated excellence and innovation across the care industry.

This award recognises Connect2Care’s exceptional contribution to the care sector through its bespoke training programmes that empower professionals in adult health and social care. A defining feature of Connect2Care’s approach is its proactive identification of critical gaps in training and its innovative solutions to address them.

One of the key milestones this year was Connect2Care’s involvement in the redevelopment of the Adult Care Worker Standards and its contribution to the Adult Social Care Certificate. The company also became a key part of a pioneering SEND exemption pilot programme led by the Department for Education, which allowed individuals with low English and maths levels, and lacking formal special educational needs statements, to access apprenticeships. This pilot was instrumental in shaping future regulations, demonstrating Connect2Care’s influence in steering the future of care training.

Connect2Care has also been a leader in integrating mental health first aid into its training programmes, addressing a critical need within the sector. This component has empowered care workers to support not only the physical well-being of clients but also their mental health, resulting in a more holistic, person-centred approach to care.

Additionally, the company has excelled in supporting roles such as Activities Coordinators, Activities Leads, and Wellbeing Champions. Its bespoke curriculum ensures that these care workers receive qualifications tailored to their specific roles, allowing them to excel. With a remarkable track record of success—50% of Adult Care Workers achieving a merit and the other 50% earning distinctions—Connect2Care’s commitment to quality and individualised training has transformed outcomes for care professionals.

Kirsty Simmonds, National Lead for Adult Health and Social Care at Connect2Care, expressed her delight at receiving this honour:

We are absolutely thrilled to be recognised as the Business Supplier of the Year at the Leaders in Care Awards. This award reflects the dedication, passion, and tireless efforts of our team to create meaningful change in the care sector. It is a testament to the positive impact we are making in supporting care professionals, who work so hard to improve the lives of others. We look forward to continuing our work, partnering with organisations to deliver innovative training solutions that address the evolving needs of the sector.

The Leaders in Care Awards are an annual event that acknowledges the efforts of care providers and suppliers who are making a significant difference in the industry. Connect2Care’s commitment to empowering care professionals, enhancing their skills, and improving care outcomes continues to drive the sector forward.

For more information, visit www.connect2care.net