A PAIR of Bournemouth care workers described as “two shining lights” have scooped a national award.

Tilly Kent and Fernanda Fernandes were awarded one of the top prizes at the Cygnet Group achievement awards.

The service users’ choice award gives residents, including their families and carers, the opportunity to nominate staff who they feel deserves special recognition for the exceptional care they give.

Tilly and Fernanda are both support workers at Nightingale - a 10 bed specialist residential service in Southbourne for adults with autism and learning disabilities.

They were nominated by the parent of a Nightingale resident, who said: “I would like to nominate both of these care workers as they are equally amazing.

"They go above and beyond their job role to support and care and do everything they can to make my daughter’s life safer, happier, more interesting and fun.

“My daughter enjoys their company and looks forward to their shifts. We are very grateful to have them on board at Nightingale. Two shining lights."

The awards took place at the Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham, and were hosted by actress and comedian Sally Phillips, together with her son Olly, who has Downs Syndrome.

Upon receiving the award, Tilly said: “I never expected to be nominated for an award, much less win an award where so many wonderful people were involved.

"I couldn't hold back my tears when I read what one of our residents' mothers wrote about me and Tilly and those words alone were my prize.

“Receiving the award from Sally, who was in tears, made me absolutely sure that we are on the right path because we do our work with a lot of love and respect.

“I really have to be grateful to the residents because they teach me every day how to be a better person. I am still very emotional.”

Nightingale, in Stourcliffe Avenue, is part of the Cygnet Social Care division.

Dr Tony Romero, Cygnet Group CEO, said: “Tilly and Fernanda consistently go above and beyond for the individuals in their care.

"They demonstrate a passion for their work, commitment to excellence, and an unwavering dedication to our service users.”