A DEDICATED dementia specialist has won a prestigious award.

Lisa West has achieved astonishing success rising from care assistant to general manager of the dementia unit at a Knutsford care home, in just eight years.

She has been recognised at the Stars of Social Care Awards in the Dementia Specialist Award category.

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The awards shine a light on brilliance in social care, paying tribute to the dedicated employees who go above and beyond to support those who are most vulnerable.

Lisa West says she feels 'humbled' to be recognised among the many talented dementia specialistsLisa West says she feels 'humbled' to be recognised among the many talented dementia specialists (Image: Supplied)

Judges were impressed by Lisa’s journey from care assistant to running the dementia unit at Cranford Grange since joining in 2016.

She excels in building relationships with residents and their family members.

She continues to go above and beyond in her current role organising exciting events and activities including arranging a local ballet school to perform Swan Lake for a resident who used to be a ballet examiner.

Lisa said: “I am humbled to be recognised among the many talented dementia specialists.

“But, this award is not just for me it is a whole team approach promoting a meaningful lifestyle and enhancing all residents’ wellbeing to live a long and enriching life.”

Adding to the team’s success, the home’s senior care assistant, Carly Pounder, was highly commended and named the runner-up in the Caring Times Care Heroes award.

Carly Pounder, senior care assistant said she is 'immensely honoured' Carly Pounder, senior care assistant said she is 'immensely honoured' (Image: Supplied)

Carly said: “Having moved into my mother’s house to look after her when she was diagnosed with cancer, it made me realise what a rewarding career being a carer is.

“This led me to start my caring career seven years ago.

“I am immensely honoured.

“Caring is not just a job, it’s friendship and compassion and a joy to be part of.”

Lisa Burrows, general manager at Cranford Grange said: “We’re all delighted that both Lisa and Carly have been acknowledged for their hard work.

“It’s so well deserved and a testament to their hard work and dedication.

“A lot of thought and attention has gone into making Cranford Grange a brilliant place to call home.

“Both Lisa and Carly help residents live fulfilling lives by adapting meaningful and positive activities to meet residents' individual needs.

“Lisa has created an innovative environment that residents can call home.

“Carly is a natural carer and is a go-to source for support and always attends to the resident's every need.

“On behalf of the whole team, I’d like to extend a huge thanks to the talented team we have here at Cranford Grange.”