Nominations are now open for awards helping to recognise the best social care workers, volunteers and community members in the area.

The 2024 Dignity in Care Awards, hosted by Islington Council, aim to highlight the invaluable role these individuals play in the everyday lives of those they care for.

Submissions are currently being accepted from anyone wishing to make a nomination, with the closing date set for July 12.

Last year, 10 winners were selected from more than 90 nominations, many provided by service users themselves and their families.

The winners for this year's ceremony will be announced at Islington Assembly Hall on September 16.

Virginia Bovell, a joint winner of last year's Family Carer of the Year award and an active voice for people with learning disabilities in Islington, said: "It's thrilling even to be nominated, let alone to win an award.

"It’s great that the voice of family carers is really heard in Islington."

Councillor Flora Williamson, executive member for health and social care, outlined the importance of these awards, saying: "Carers make an enormous positive contribution to the lives of so many people in Islington.

"They are often the unsung heroes, but the Dignity in Care Awards help to make sure carers get the recognition they deserve.

"It’s a wonderful opportunity for service users and their families to show how grateful they are to the people who improve their lives every single day."

John Everson, Islington’s director of adult social care, added: "It’s always a pleasure to read the nominations that flood in.

"If you know someone who deserves to be recognised for their care work, whether it’s a paid or unpaid, please show your appreciation and nominate them for an award."

This year’s award categories cover a wide range of areas within social care, such as Care Worker of the Year for home care and reablement, nursing care, or supported living, Unpaid Carer of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.

Additionally, this year features an Outstanding Team Collaboration award and a Special Recognition award.

Judges will assess the nominees based on a range of criteria, including their dedication, the positive impact they've had on the lives they care for, the improvements they've brought to a service or organisation and their commitment to providing person-centred care.

Nominations for inspirational care workers can be submitted through the Dignity in Care Awards page on Islington Council’s website.