A care worker based in Rhayader has been named as a finalist in the Wales Care Awards 2026.

Bella Bates, Regional Support Lead at Caron Group, has been shortlisted for the Excellence in Support Function Award.

The 37-year-old began her career as a frontline carer in 2010 and has since progressed through a number of operational roles. She now supports services across Mid and South Wales.

The awards, organised by Care Forum Wales, will take place at the Holland House Hotel in Cardiff on Friday, October 16.

Bella said: “I genuinely love what I do and feel very lucky to work alongside so many amazing people across the Caron Group. Ultimately, my role is about supporting people.

“It can be incredibly busy, but I absolutely love the variety of my job and the people I get to work with.

“Knowing that the support I give our teams can ultimately help make a positive difference to the lives of the people we care for is what makes the job so rewarding.”

Established in 2006, the Wales Care Awards recognise workers and teams across the social care sector, with categories covering areas including dementia care, mental health, nursing, catering and end-of-life care.

Care Forum Wales chief executive Melanie Minty said the awards recognised the contribution of a skilled and compassionate workforce.

She said: “Every day, care workers bring warmth, dignity and kindness to the people they support, often making an extraordinary difference in quiet and deeply meaningful ways.

“The Wales Care Awards are as important and inspiring today as they were when they were first established in 2006. They remain a proud celebration of excellence, compassion and commitment across the social care sector.”

Head judge Mathew Jones said the awards recognised the contribution of workers whose efforts often went unrecognised.

He said: “The Wales Care Awards allows us to honour the many unsung heroes and heroines whose compassion, resilience and dedication enrich lives every day.

“It is a privilege to help recognise their contribution, and I look forward to seeing their vital work celebrated for many years to come.

“My message to each of this year's nominees and finalists is that the care, commitment and hard work they demonstrate every day remain essential to our sector. Whatever the outcome of the awards, this recognition reflects the dedication they bring to their work and the positive difference they make to the lives of others.”

Winners will be announced at Friday's ceremony.