Our home care professional Norbert is a national award winner!

As you may be aware, here at Sussex Grange, we are tremendously proud of the commitment and professionalism of all our fantastic care professionals, both in home care and at our Selsey care home. As such, we are over the moon to announce that one of our home care professionals has received national recognition!

Norbert Gutowski has been named the recipient of the National Home Care Award for Most Outstanding Individual, in recognition of his extraordinary compassion, professionalism, and life-saving intervention during a cardiac emergency involving a 98-year-old client.

While this life-saving moment stands out, it reflects the same care and attentiveness Norbert brings to his role, every day. For one client who he formed a close bond with, he thoughtfully created a digital scrapbook of memories to celebrate their life and experiences — just one example of how he consistently goes above and beyond.

A former college lecturer in antique furniture restoration, Norbert began his career in care later in life, bringing with him patience, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for personal history. His conscientious approach and naturally caring disposition have made him a valued member of the team and a trusted presence in clients’ homes.

Norbert is pictured with Home Care Association Head of Membership Erica Siwo and Sussex Grange Home Care supervisor Maddie Horwood

The awards ceremony took place at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham on Friday (March 6), where Norbert was formally presented with the National Home Care Award for Most Outstanding Individual in front of peers and leaders from across the sector.

The award recognises exceptional professionals who demonstrate courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those they serve. Selected from nominees across the country, Norbert stood out for both his heroism in a moment of crisis and his everyday acts of professionalism and kindness that define outstanding care.

The winners of the Home Care Awards at the ceremony on Friday

Dr Jane Townson OBE, Chief Executive of the Homecare Association said:

“Norbert is a thoroughly deserving winner. He has displayed exceptional professionalism under pressure, and compassion that goes beyond the task.

“When his client showed signs of a heart attack, he recognised what was happening, kept his head, and delivered CPR that saved her life. That kind of calm, decisive action speaks to genuine skill and deep commitment.

“But Norbert is also the person who made a scrapbook of memories for a client and visited another in hospital just to check she was doing well. He sees the whole human being, not just the care package. That combination is what homecare at its best looks like, and we're delighted to celebrate him.”

In accepting the award, Norbert remained characteristically humble, He said: “I was simply doing what anyone in my position would do. Caring for people in their own homes is a privilege, and being able to make a difference - whether in a big moment or a small one - means everything.”