The boss of a care home has been nominated for a national award.

Natasha Lazovic, managing director at Barchester’s Shawford Springs Care Home, is a finalist in the Executive Leader category of the Leaders in Care Awards 2024.

The awards, sponsored by Care Home Professional magazine, acknowledge the accomplishments of care home providers and their suppliers across the UK.

The winners will be announced at an awards show on Tuesday, October 8 at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham.

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Natasha Lazovic joined Barchester in 2014 (Image: Barchester) Ms Lazovic moved to the UK from Serbia in 1994 and started her training as a nurse.

She joined Barchester in 2014 as a regional director, overseeing 10 homes.

This number doubled when she was a senior regional director, and as managing director, she now supervises more than 80 care homes in the South Division.

Ms Lazovic said: "I am very humbled to be nominated for this award, and I am very proud to be part of the shortlist, and to be representing Barchester as a finalist.

"It is an honour to be recognised for doing a job I love.

"I’ve just celebrated my 10-year anniversary with Barchester and those years have flown by, I’m looking forward to the next 10."

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Dr Pete Calveley, chief executive officer of Barchester Healthcare, added: "It comes as no surprise to me that Natasha has been shortlisted for this award.

"I have had the pleasure of knowing and working alongside her for over 18 years, we’ve both just celebrated 10 years with Barchester.

"Natasha is an incredible leader who is totally devoted to her teams and her residents. I can think of no one who deserves this award more than she does."

The Shawford Springs Care Home, in Otterbourne Road, Compton, is operated by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK's largest care providers.

The company is committed to delivering high-quality care across its care homes and hospitals.

Shawford Springs Care Home provides residential, respite, and specialist dementia care.

The Leaders in Care Awards ceremony will highlight the dedication and hard work of care home providers, and Ms Lazovic's nomination reflects her contribution to this sector.

Her story of determination and dedication continues to inspire staff and residents alike at Shawford Springs Care Home.

Her leadership style is described as a calm, can-do attitude, which has driven her success in her challenging role.