Lifetime honour for Sheila
Sanctuary Care is proud to announce that Sheila O’Connor has been honoured with an Outstanding Contribution in Care Award.
Retiring from her role as Operations Director in the Spring, Sheila won the accolade at Care Home Professional’s prestigious Leaders in Care Awards, in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to the care sector.
Sheila’s journey began in NHS nursing, culminating in her role as an Outpatient Manager. Her passion for quality care and leadership then flourished across two decades in senior leadership roles with care providers, before she joined leading not-for-profit Sanctuary Care eight years ago.
Our Chief Operating Officer, Sarah Clarke-Kuehn, said: “Sheila’s impact is immeasurable. Her unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and compassionate leadership have not only shaped our organisation, but inspired the care sector. This award is a fitting tribute to a truly exceptional career, which sees Sheila retiring on a high – with sector-leading compliance scores, hugely successful staff retention and engagement, some truly inspiring and innovative new developments and so much more.”
Since Sheila became Operations Director, Sanctuary Care has expanded from 69 homes in England, to 109 across England and Scotland, supporting over 7,000 staff and 5,000 residents. Sheila’s leadership during the integration of newly acquired homes was marked by empathy and excellence.
Championing Wellbeing and Retention
Sheila spearheaded wellbeing initiatives like the Cultivating Conversations workshops, now a cornerstone of Sanctuary Care’s mental health training.
Her Rising Stars and Induction Buddy Mentorship programmes have nurtured future leaders and strengthened recruitment and retention.
Leading Innovation
Sheila also embedded Sanctuary Care’s award-winning Enriching Lives framework, based on the six senses essential for leading an enriched, fulfilled and happy life.
Her passion for co-production has empowered Sanctuary Care’s residents to truly shape their homes - from supporting with staff interviews, to food tasting sessions to influence the menus.
Sheila launched regional chefs’ forums and the beloved MasterChef contest, celebrating culinary creativity and excellence.
Her Grow Your Own Way campaign has supported residents to grow and nurture their own produce, harvesting if for their chefs to use in the kitchens.
Driving Change
Sheila’s passion for sustainability led to her War on Waste initiative, which has already reduced food waste by 50% in two years.
Meanwhile her Senior Ops Challenge had up until this year raised £14,000 for different charities, with this year’s fundraiser supporting Mental Health UK.
As Sheila prepares for retirement, her legacy will continue to enrich lives, inspire future leaders, and set an industry leading standard.
