Award Shortlisting for Horsforth Care Worker after “Outstanding Impact”

The deputy manager of a care service in Horsforth which supports adults with learning disabilities has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Great British Care Awards after being described as someone who “goes above and beyond consistently, always puts the people we support at the forefront and inspires her team to grow,”

Jade Lee Thompson is the Deputy Manager of Cygnet Social Care’s Outwood service in Horsforth, which provides residential support for adults with learning disabilities. The Great British Care Awards are a series of regional events celebrating excellence in the care sector across the UK.

Jade has reached the finals for the South East Region in the “Frontline Leaders Award” category, which recognises outstanding supervisors, team leaders, and first-time managers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to improving care delivery.

Jade began her career at Outwood in 2017 as a Support Worker, where she thrived in promoting independence and supporting residents to reach their potential. Her passion and dedication saw her rise through the roles of Acting Team Leader and Team Leader, before progressing to Deputy Manager.

In her current role, Jade is known for her unwavering support for her team, mentoring colleagues to reach their potential, planning memorable holidays for residents, and fostering a positive, fun, and engaging environment for both staff and those they support.

Speaking about her nomination, Jade said: “Receiving the email to say I’ve been shortlisted as a finalist was completely unexpected, but truly appreciated. I genuinely love my role, and the individuals we support make it even more rewarding.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to be in a position where I can have a positive impact on someone’s life. Sometimes it’s as simple as having a meaningful conversation to understand what they want to do; other times, it’s booking a holiday packed with activities they’ll enjoy. That alone is more than enough of a reward for me.

“I am surrounded by a supportive team who I hope see my desire to improve the service for the people we support, as well as for the team. To be nominated for an award like this is something else entirely and I’m deeply honoured.”

Jade was nominated by her manager, Alice Fincham-Dukes, who praised her leadership and dedication.

She said: “Jade has made an outstanding impact in her role as Deputy Manager at Outwood. As a first-time manager, she has shown not only confidence and capability but an unwavering commitment to raising standards of care and inspiring her team to grow with her.

“I nominated Jade because she goes above and beyond consistently, always puts the people we support at the forefront and encourages the staff to develop and grow. She is a genuinely kind and caring person who puts her all into, not just the people we support, but the staff too.”

The Great British Care Awards celebrate excellence across the care sector, and the Frontline Leaders Award recognises individuals who inspire their teams, implement positive change, and lead by example.

Winners will be announced at the regional finals later this year.