The coronavirus pandemic has been a difficult time for everyone, and for some this year has also involved risking their lives to continue offering care in their communities.

And that is why the founder of Dorset-based Agincare has "never been so proud" of the care provider's team and why film and TV star Joanna Lumley has praised them as heroes.

All staff members who worked from the start of lockdown in March 2020 through to the end of March 2021 have been awarded a Covid Hero Medal for ensuring those who needed care the most continued to receive it during the pandemic.

Not only that, Joanna Lumley recorded a special message, thanking and congratulating them.

She said: "You have overcome extraordinary challenges and continued to care for and support the most vulnerable in our society. You've brought so much happiness, safety and a sense of friendship to so many.

"It goes without saying that you are a hero. Your hard work and dedication certainly does not go unrecognised. You truly are doing an absolutely fabulous job."

You can watch the video at the top of this page.

To show their appreciation, Agincare's founder and chairman, Derek Luckhurst, and chief executive Raina Summerson sent each of the 3,500 employees nationwide a certificate and letter.

Mr Luckhurst said: "I have never felt so proud of the team that we have here at Agincare. We have had people going out, risking their lives and keeping morale up, to provide essential care across society.

"The Agincare Covid Hero Medal is a fitting way to say thank you to our teams, and a lasting tribute to their incredible efforts."

Staff managed the constant and ever-changing constraints and challenges that came with the pandemic, adapting to keep their clients - both in the care homes and their own homes - and themselves safe.

Raina Summerson said: "We wanted to find a heart-felt way of saying thank you and showing genuine appreciation to our Agincare team, during what has been an incredibly challenging time for them both personally and professionally.

"Everyone across all locations, including our support function, has pulled together in a fantastic way to respond to the pandemic. They have shown true resilience, courage and commitment to social care, and we wanted to recognise that."

On top of this, people can nominate care workers for the Agincare Heroes award, shining a light on those who they feel have gone above and beyond. Details on this award will be announced shortly.

Throughout this difficult year, Agincare also has cause for celebration as the company marks 35 years of delivering high quality, professional care.

For more information, visit Agincare.com

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