Young Carer Wins Prestigious Frontline Carer of the Year Award
On the 8th of October 2025, the UK’s leading names in social care gathered at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham to celebrate the very best in the sector at the 2025 Leaders in Care Awards. Guests enjoyed a three-course dinner and entertainment as outstanding individuals and organisations were recognised for their achievements.
Ashridge Home Care was shortlisted in two categories and proudly celebrated one of its youngest carers, Kirsty Timberlake, who won the Frontline Carer of the Year award — triumphing over strong competition from experienced carers across the UK.
Now aged 25, Kirsty joined Ashridge Home Care at just 20, straight from college where she completed her Health and Social Care studies. Initially unsure about a career in home care, she quickly found her passion thanks to Ashridge’s robust training and development programme, which helped her grow in confidence and skill.
When Ashridge was approached to support a local family whose 27-year-old son, Oliver, lives with autism and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Kirsty was encouraged by her manager to take on the role. Their shared youth and genuine connection proved invaluable — the pair quickly built a strong and trusting bond.
Today, after three and a half years of being Oliver’s main carer, Kirsty also supports adults living with dementia and other complex health conditions.
Trudi Scrivener, Founder of Ashridge Home Care, said: “The whole Ashridge team is absolutely thrilled for Kirsty to win Frontline Carer of the Year at such a prestigious event — it’s so well deserved. Kirsty is a compassionate, professional young carer who makes a lasting impact on everyone she supports. She joined us straight from college, and in just a few years has become a shining example of what person-centred, compassionate care truly means — particularly through her work with young adults like Oliver who have complex needs. We’re so proud of her.”
Providing more than just specialist care
Reflecting on her win, Kirsty said: “I’m over the moon that my hard work has been recognised. It’s such an honour to be nominated, let alone to win. I absolutely love what I do.”
Oliver’s mum, Lorna, added: “Kirsty is part of our family. Not everyone can cope with caring for a young adult like Oliver, but she has such a calm, understanding nature. I trust her completely.”
Kirsty supports every aspect of Oliver’s routine — from using specialist equipment to accompanying him on day trips. She even sits beside him in the back of the van to monitor his breathing while Lorna drives.
But her care extends beyond the practical. Kirsty and Oliver share a wonderful emotional connection, bonding over Disney films and video games.
As Oliver himself puts it: “Kirsty’s not just my carer — she’s my friend.”
And for Lorna, that says it all. “For Oliver to say that — it’s the biggest compliment he could give.”