LORRAINE Kelly surprised Home Instead care professionals by attending an afternoon tea to celebrate their achievements.
The presenter joined Yasmin Crouch from Margate, Louisa Endersby from Beverley and Laura Simmonds from Bedford – all finalists in the operator’s ‘Care Professional of the Year’ awards 2025.
Lorraine, who has long been an advocate for care and supported the home care company’s ‘Care Conversations’ campaign, made an unexpected entrance, delighting attendees as she personally thanked them for their commitment and compassion.
She spent time chatting with guests, listening to their stories and expressing her admiration for the invaluable role they play in supporting older people at home.
Lorraine said: “The dedication and kindness of care professionals make such a difference in people’s lives, and it’s so important to take a moment to recognise and appreciate all that they do.
“I know from personal experience how important home care is in changing the lives of older people – giving them renewed hope and an independence to live well at home.”
Lorraine later went on to announce Yasmin as the Care Professional of the Year at an awards ceremony attended by more than 1,200 people from the Home Instead network.
Martin Jones, CEO UK and International of Home Instead, added: “It was fantastic to celebrate our three inspiring Care Professional of the Year finalists and to be joined by Lorraine was the icing on the cake for them.
“We’re extremely proud of the finalists, and indeed our whole network of care professionals, who work so hard to make the lives of our clients brighter and happier.”