A resident and an apprentice from a Dereham carehome have been shortlisted for prestigious national care awards.
Resident Graham Mason, 71, has been shortlisted in the 'Best Resident Contribution' category in the annual Dementia Care awards, while staff member Mariah Maund is a finalist in the 'Best Apprentice' category in the National Care Awards.
Judging days for both categories took place on Friday, September 29, and the winners will be announced at ceremonies held in November.
Mr Mason moved to the home in November 2016 from Lyng. He is described as having had a huge impact on the lives of residents and staff ever since, despite living with vascular dementia, and suffering from left-side weakness.
A spokesperson for the home said: 'Despite living with the challenges dementia poses, and being in receipt of daily care himself, he goes out of his way to help those around him, working in the home to care for the gardens, serving as an active member of the bird club, and taking time to chat and engage with residents.'
Mariah Maund began working at Bilney Hall in August 2015 as a care apprentice - a position which led to a permanent role.
A spokesperson said: 'Mariah has had a profound effect on the residents she cares for and her colleagues since she joined the team.
'She has a natural aptitude for calming and reassuring residents and continually goes above and beyond to help her colleagues and to over-deliver for the team.'
Home Manager Jenny Daynes said: 'We are absolutely delighted that Graham and Mariah have been recognised in this way.
'They both make such a difference at the home. Graham is such a selfless and positive individual that goes out of his way to help, offering support and friendship to both staff and residents.
'Mariah has come into the care industry with no experience and shown a natural ability and passion for helping those around her.
'It's people like this that create an enjoyable 'home from home' for our residents and we are very proud to have them as part of the Bilney Hall family.'
The annual Dementia Care awards are organised by The Journal of Dementia Care, while the National Care Awards are organised by 'Caring Times' magazine.
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