A Sheffield homecare Registered Manager who began her career as a Care Assistant with no experience has been named Leader of the Year at the Hales Group Awards, highlighting the career progression opportunities in the care sector.
Shelly Beech, Registered Manager for Hales Group’s Sheffield service, has been named Leader of the Year in recognition of her leadership, commitment to high-quality care, and dedication to supporting both her team and the people they care for.
The award marks a significant milestone in a career that began in 2017 after supporting a family member and witnessing first-hand the difference compassionate care can make.
Starting as a Care Assistant, Shelly progressed through the organisation before becoming a Registered Manager. This demonstrates the opportunities available for those looking to build a long-term career in adult social care.
Reflecting on her award win, Shelly said:
“I was genuinely shocked and overwhelmed when my name was announced. I felt incredibly proud and grateful, especially knowing how many dedicated professionals were nominated. My first thought was of my team and the people we support, as this is very much a shared achievement.”
She added:
“I started in care with no previous experience and discovered a career that is both rewarding and full of opportunities to grow. Care allows you to make a real difference to people’s lives while developing valuable skills and progressing professionally.”
Shelly credits much of her success to the support she has received throughout her career at Hales, particularly from colleagues and mentors who encouraged her development.
“I would especially like to thank Debbie, who encouraged and pushed me to become a manager. She believed in my potential and gave me the confidence to take the next step in my career.”
At a time when more young people are struggling to find opportunities, careers in adult social care can offer a meaningful and rewarding career pathway.
According to the Office for National Statistics, 13.5% of 16 to 24-year-olds in the UK were not in education, employment or training (NEET) between January and March 2026. Yet despite the growing need for homecare services, younger people remain underrepresented in the sector.
Nicola Mewse, Hales Group Managing Director, commented:
“Shelly’s story is a powerful reminder that care can offer far more than a job. It can provide a meaningful, long-term career with real opportunities to learn, grow and lead. At a time when many young people are looking for direction and opportunity, adult social care has an important role to play in opening doors, building confidence and helping people develop skills that make a genuine difference to others. At Hales Group, we are committed to investing in our colleagues, recognising potential and supporting people to progress at every stage of their career.”
Hales Group Awards celebrate colleagues who go above and beyond to deliver outstanding service and support their communities.
Debbie Dennis, Head of Care at Hales, shared:
“We are incredibly proud of Shelly and everything she has achieved. Her journey from Care Assistant to Registered Manager is a fantastic example of the opportunities available within the care sector and the talent we are proud to nurture across Hales.
The Hales Group Awards were created to recognise the colleagues who go above and beyond every day for the people they support, their families and their communities. Shelly’s dedication, leadership and commitment to high-quality care make her a truly deserving recipient of this award.”