A volunteer care worker at a Wisbech home has been recognised for the support she has given to residents.

Cristina Cardoso helps at Lyncroft Care Home and has been awarded an unpaid carers award at the East of England GB Care Awards.

The honour is given to an unpaid carer who demonstrates commitment and perseverance and acknowledges and celebrates the difference they have made to the lives of vulnerable people they are caring for.

She said: “I was so surprised to receive the award. I love coming to Lyncroft, there’s such a lovely atmosphere at the home, and I just enjoy being here and chatting to the residents”.

She has been dropping into Lyncroft Care Home on her days off on a voluntary basis since May. Staff says she has built up an excellent rapport with the residents and she enjoys spending time with them.

The home says Cristina will happily take on any task that is asked of her from helping with activities to supporting the housekeeping or care teams.

They say she goes above and beyond what is usually expected of a volunteer; during a recent infection outbreak at the care home she volunteered to cover for staff that were off sick, working long days, all unpaid to ensure that the residents’ needs were met and put first.

Home manager Jan Davison says Christina is well liked by residents and respected by all the staff team who value her fantastic contribution to life at Lyncroft Care Home.

Cristina was presented with her award at a ceremony at the Holiday Inn in Peterborough.

“We are delighted that Cristina has been recognized” said Ms Davison.

“She is so loyal and dedicated and most importantly the residents love her, it’s thoroughly well deserved”.

Lyncroft Care Home is currently home to 39 residents and offers residential and dementia care in a homely setting. The 18th century town house was thoughtfully converted to a care home in 1991 with many original features retained.

Lyncroft is part of the Country Court Care Group, a family owned and run business.

The company owns 28 care homes which provide care for up to 1,276 elderly people across the UK. They hope to complete two new care homes by spring 2018.