Laura Ball from Stalybridge in Tameside, Manchester, who has worked as an Operational Learning and Development Manager at HC-One for four years was nominated for the award by Natasha Wilson, Dementia Care Manager at HC-One.
The inaugural Dementia Care Awards celebrate outstanding practice in dementia services and recognise commitment to delivering outcome focussed, person centred care for people living with dementia.
The awards pay tribute to accomplishments at all levels across the social care sector, including services for older people, people with learning disabilities or autism, inspirational people living with dementia and suppliers of products and services to the sector.
Being shortlisted as a finalist in the ‘Dementia Trainer and Workforce Development’ category at the Dementia Care Awards 2025 recognises the support Laura provides others, rooted in her understanding of the needs of individuals living with dementia. Laura’s impactful work in dementia showcases strong leadership, innovation, and workforce development to improve outcomes for those affected by dementia.
Laura leads on the design and delivery of inspiring dementia training across 64 of HC-One’s care homes, fostering compassion in colleagues at all levels. Her exceptional communication skills and personal experience with dementia enables her to connect emphatically, ensuring the voices of those with complex needs shape organisational learning.
Laura and her training team have driven the presence of dementia care coaches in all 64 care homes, further enhancing colleagues’ knowledge and resident care. She has also led HC-One’s efforts to reduce restrictive practices, partnering with external organisations to achieve up to a 95% reduction in stress and distress events.
Beyond her role, Laura pursues a Post Graduate Course in Dementia Care, consistently centring her practical recommendations on the needs of individuals with dementia.
Laura Ball, Operational Learning and Development Manager at HC-One, said:
“Being named as a finalist in the Dementia Care Awards is a true honour. It reflects the dedication, compassion and tireless effort me and the team put into improving the lives of those living with dementia every single day. We’re proud to stand alongside others who share this important mission.”
Natasha Wilson, Dementia Care Manager at HC-One, commented:
“I nominated Laura because her commitment to dementia care goes beyond best practice – it’s heartfelt, innovative and deeply person-centred. Laura consistently makes a profound difference in the lives of those she supports, and being a finalist is a well-deserved recognition of Laura’s incredible work.”
The Dementia Care Awards ceremony and gala dinner will take place on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Hilton Bankside London where the winners will be announced.
For more information on HC-One homes in your area visit www.hc-one.co.uk/carehomes.