‘Our Queen of Hearts’- Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire's Vicky Tramontana scoops award at prestigious BBC Make a Difference Awards 2023

Vicky Tramontana of our Dementia Wellbeing Service was one of eight deserving winners at the BBC Hereford and Worcester’s Make a Difference Awards last week.

The awards aim to shine a spotlight on those who make a big impact in their local communities, celebrating their achievements and commitment to helping others.

Vicky, who works as our Dementia Activity Coordinator, was nominated for The Carer Award and ended up being the winner - a huge testament to the commitment and work she puts into her role.

Research carried out by the Alzheimer’s Society has identified Dementia as the leading cause of death in Britain over the last 10 years. More than 900,000 people in the country are living with a form of Dementia today, reinforcing the importance of people like Vicky and the selflessness of her work.

Award Ceremony guests were told of her passion for her job and the individuals that she cares for. The effort and time she puts into organising meals, trips, walks, dancing and singing sessions was also praised. In Vicky’s local village of Abberley, where she cares for people that include her own family members, she was described as ‘our Queen of hearts’ by the locals.

Speaking in relation to winning the award, Vicky said: “It was a lovely night and BBC Hereford and Worcester looked after everyone so well. I wasn't expecting to win, as there were so many people there involved in amazing projects. It was a complete shock when my name was called and I had to go on stage. Elliot Webb was hosting and asked me how I felt about my work and why I enjoy it so much - I quoted an MCST member from that same morning- ' I've had so much fun this morning, thank you'.”

Vicky was also showered in praise from our brilliant Dementia Services Manager Kelly Reeves, who said: “We are incredibly proud of Vicky and all the hard work and care she puts into looking after our dementia clients inside and outside of her working hours. Vicky brings empathy, sensitivity and a lot of fun to her role, along with a passion to deliver the best service possible. We are lucky to have her as part of our Dementia Wellbeing Service Team. Congratulations Vicky, this award is well deserved!”

Everybody at Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire is immensely proud of Vicky and grateful for her contributions in making the two counties great places to grow older. 

You can read more about our Dementia Wellbeing Service here:
https://bit.ly/42KrKxi

You can also read even more about the event and other winners via the BBC here: https://bbc.in/3EJMDxA