A charity supporting unpaid carers across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Peterborough has launched new awards in memory of Littleport-resident, Kerry Giles-Brown, who passed away from cancer in September.

Kerry had worked for Caring Together as a care professional for over 30 years, and raised thousands of pounds to support unpaid carers locally.

In summer 2024, she raised over £5,000 from having her head shaved before starting chemotherapy.

The annual Kerry Care Awards will recognise charity care assistants – called ‘care professionals’ by the charity - who provide outstanding care to people with health problems or frailty.

This year, the award was won by Belinda Sabine who works across the Huntingdonshire area.

Kerry’s daughter, Megan, and retired care professional and family friend, Karen, chose the award-winner. The Award was presented by Kerry’s husband and daughter.

Lisa Downs, head of care at Caring Together Charity, said, “At a time when the incredible work of professional care staff often goes unnoticed and under-valued, these awards show just how amazing people working in care, are.

“There were several worthy nominees for the first Kerry Care Award and I am always proud of each and every one of my team, I know it was a struggle to choose a winner. Congratulations Belinda!”

Belinda has worked for the charity for 16 years, including when it was known as Crossroads Care Cambridgeshire, and Carers Trust Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Norfolk.

She was recognised for always putting the person she cares for first and going the extra mile to support unpaid carers and those they look after.

Miriam Martin, chief executive of Caring Together Charity, said: “Kerry was quite an extraordinary woman.

“She was loud, full of energy and fun, just lifting the room as soon as she walked in.

“And that is how I will always remember her. She was one of the most amazing, driven and determined people I have ever met.

“When I first heard about Kerry’s diagnosis and prognosis, we spoke about what she would like her legacy to be as part of Caring Together.

“We agreed that an annual ‘Kerry Care Award’ would be perfect and something that her family could also be involved in.

“Not for one moment did either of us think she wouldn’t be here to present the first award. She was so excited about it.

“We are mourning the loss of a friend and colleague but there is real comfort in the inspiration she was to us all.”

Kerry’s funeral was held on October 31 in Littleport. Messages for the family may be left in an online tribute page at kerrygiles-brown.muchloved.com.

Caring Together Charity supports unpaid, family carers across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Norfolk, including by providing homecare to cover for emergencies and give breaks to unpaid carers.

To find out more about Caring Together Charity visit caringtogether.org, email hello@caringtogether.org or call 0345 241 0954.

(Image: Caring Together)