A care home manager is in the running for a 'prestigious' award.

Michaela Vallance, from Denbighshire, was 'moved to tears' when she found out she had been shortlisted for a Wales Care Award 2024, also known as the 'social care Oscars'.

Ms Vallance has dedicated 15 years to the health and care industry, working her way up from a support worker to a registered manager.

Her dedication and leadership have impressed her colleagues so much that they have put her forward for an accolade in the Excellence in Learning Disability Services and Mental Health category.

She was nominated by her employers and colleagues at MHC UK in Llangwyfan, near Denbigh, one of the UK’s top providers of support for individuals with learning disabilities, mental health issues, behaviours that challenge, and autism.

Ms Vallance said: "We were on holiday in Tenerife.

"I couldn’t believe I had been nominated, it was such a surprise, and so overwhelming.

"I’m so grateful to have had my name put forward, never mind reaching the finals."

Her husband, Daniel, and two daughters, Emi and Harriett, aged 12 and three, are 'hugely proud' of her achievement.

Ms Vallance joined MHC UK in 2013 and is the group’s registered manager for Beech, a two-bedded registered home for people living with complex needs.

She also manages Cedar, the MHC activities department, which offers therapeutic activities to help residents develop education and life skills.

MHC managing director Seona Weir praised Ms Vallance's approach.

She said: "It is clear that Michaela does not see the person for their disability and how they should be supported, but as a person who wants a fulfilled and happy life."

Ms Vallance said she greatly enjoys her job and the chance it gives her to help the more vulnerable members of society 'make the most of their lives'.

She said: "I am a great believer in positive risk-taking and enabling people to achieve their dreams and ambitions no matter how great the obstacles they need to overcome to do that."

She is excited about attending the awards night next month, accompanied by her husband.

The shortlist of finalists in each category of the award has been whittled down from hundreds of nominees in the social care sector across Wales.

Each finalist will receive a gold, silver or bronze accolade.

Mario Kreft MBE, the chair of Care Forum Wales, which oversees the Wales Care Awards, said: "Our aim is to recognise the unstinting, often remarkable dedication of our unsung heroes and heroines on the front line of social care in Wales.

"It’s a pleasure to honour the contribution of all the finalists.

"Each and every one of them should be very proud of their achievement."