Two women from same care facility represent Limerick in national awards

TWO Limerick nursing homes employees proudly represented their care facility and their county at the NHI Care Awards 2023 this week.

From hundreds of nominations, 24 finalists were announced for the national awards in The Round Room at The Mansion House, Dublin. The ceremony, in association with Homecare Medical, took place on Tuesday.

Both finalists from Limerick are employees of Beech Lodge Care Facility in Bruree - Eleanor Clancy, director of nursing, and Irene Noonan, administration.

Anne Maria Moore, proprietor of Beech Lodge with husband James, said they were thrilled that both Limerick finalists in the national awards are working in their care facility Bruree.

"There has been great excitement in Beech Lodge since the announcement was made with everybody wishing Eleanor and Irene well. We are so proud to be a family run business for 21 years. We look forward to holding a big party for all our residents and staff to celebrate," said Ms Moore.

The NHI Care Awards recognise care excellence and staff within nursing homes. The awards honour the vital role fulfilled by nursing homes and their staff in enhancing the lives of residents entrusted in their care. Nominations were invited from over 370 Nursing Homes Ireland member nursing homes, located in communities across the country. Hundreds of nominations were submitted by nursing home residents, visitors to nursing homes, staff, and the public.

The Beech Lodge duo made the 24-person shortlist, with entries adjudicated by an independent judging panel. Over 300 representatives from Ireland’s nursing home, older person care and health sectors attended Tuesday’s awards ceremony, with RTE presenter Mary Kennedy as the MC.

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Speaking before the finals, Ms Clancy said she feels a profound sense of honour being among the finalists for the NHI Care Awards.

This recognition is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the unwavering dedication and support of the team at Beech Lodge Care Facility. In my role as the director of nursing for over four years, I consider it a profound calling to provide the highest quality of care, dignity, and comfort for our wonderful residents.

"My motivation and commitment stem from the real, positive difference I can make in our resident’s lives, creating a second family environment filled with a sense of comfort, joy, belonging, and familiarity. Nursing, to me, is not just a job but a lifelong commitment, and each day, I strive to provide compassionate care and inspire my team to do the same," said Ms Clancy.

Ms Noonan said being shortlisted for the NHI Care Awards is a tremendous honour.

"To me, serving as the front of house represents a profound opportunity to positively influence the lives of our residents their families and friends. Each day, I strive to exceed expectations, building trust and open lines of communication with our cherished residents and families.

"My role extends beyond the ordinary, ensuring the optimal functioning of our nursing home and a commitment to nurturing a strong and vibrant sense of community. I am overjoyed to be acknowledged for my contributions and eagerly look forward to the opportunity to continue serving the Beech Lodge Care Facility community with unwavering enthusiasm and commitment," said Ms Noonan.

Tadhg Daly, Nursing Homes Ireland CEO, extended his congratulations to Eleanor and Irene:

“Congratulations to the two finalist Eleanor and Irene. To reach the final from hundreds of entries was a brilliant accomplishment and demonstrated commitment to providing the best quality care to residents. All our finalists should be very proud and celebrated in their nursing homes for their exceptional achievement," said Mr Daly.