Much-loved care worker Rachael Hayward, from Agincare’s Cheriton Care Home in Dorchester, has received the care provider’s highest honour in recognition of three decades of dedication and compassion.
Rachael was one of just six people from the leading national care provider’s 6,000-strong workforce to receive a Hero Medal at the Agincare Heroes Awards 2026.
Her tireless commitment inspired a wealth of nominations from the care team and residents’ families, who praised the lasting difference she makes to the lives of those she supports.
As a valued part of the Cheriton family, Rachael has been a key supporter of initiatives to build closer ties with the Dorchester community, such as visits from local schools and an ongoing donation campaign for Dorchester Family Support.
Rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Cheriton Care Home provides a warm and welcoming home for up to 70 residents and offers residential, respite, reablement and dementia care.
Reflecting on the honour, Rachael said:
“I have worked for Agincare for thirty years and would like to say thank you to everyone for this award. It means the world to me.”
Cheriton Care Home Deputy Manager Sam Fidler spoke of the difference Rachael makes to life at the home:
“Rachael is a key part of the Cheriton team and is a great ambassador for the home. She has a wealth of experience and treats the residents like her own family.
“She is very deserving of the Agincare Hero Medal, and I know it was a real honour for her to be part of the ceremony.”
Held at Chewton Glen Hotel in the New Forest, the Agincare Heroes Awards celebrated the organisation’s 6,000-strong workforce, with 11 awards presented following more than 1,000 nominations.
