Cygnet Social Care has been shortlisted for Specialist Care Provider of the Year – Large Group, while Cygnet’s apprenticeship programme is in the running for Apprenticeship Scheme of the Year.
The double shortlisting recognises Cygnet’s commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centred support and investing in the learning and development of its workforce.
The Specialist Care Provider of the Year nomination celebrates the work of Cygnet Social Care services in supporting adults with learning disabilities, autism, acquired brain injuries and complex needs.
The submission highlighted that 100% of Cygnet Social Care services were rated Good or Outstanding by regulators in 2025. It also highlighted how Cygnet Social Care continued to expand access to specialist support during 2025, adding 11 homes and 181 beds. This growth has enabled more people to receive personalised care focused on regaining independence and meaningful participation in their communities.
The submission also recognised significant workforce improvements. Staff turnover reduced from 35% in 2024 to 23% in 2025, while agency usage fell from 11.5% to just 1.4%, providing greater consistency and continuity of care. In Cygnet’s staff survey, 91% of Social Care colleagues said they enjoyed working for the organisation and 94% agreed that care for service users was its top priority.
Gareth Williams, CEO of Cygnet Social Care, said: “We are incredibly proud to be shortlisted for Specialist Care Provider of the Year. This recognition belongs to our dedicated teams, who work tirelessly to provide compassionate and highly personalised support to people with some of the most complex needs.
“Our colleagues are committed to helping every individual achieve their own goals and enjoy a meaningful quality of life. Across services, individuals have been supported to develop practical life skills, pursue education and employment, volunteer, travel, build relationships and move towards greater independence. Being named as a finalist is a wonderful acknowledgement of the skill, creativity and unwavering commitment of staff to the people we support.”
The Apprenticeship Scheme of the Year shortlisting recognises Cygnet’s growing programme of career development opportunities, which enables colleagues across the organisation to gain qualifications, build their confidence and progress into new roles.
During 2025-26, Cygnet recorded 150 new apprenticeship sign-ups, introduced eight new programmes and celebrated 60 completions. Almost 350 colleagues were undertaking apprenticeships, while 496 people had completed a programme during the previous three years, including 42 newly qualified nurses.
The submission also highlighted Cygnet’s investment in leadership development. A total of 250 colleagues began the World Class Manager Programme, while 250 colleagues completed Team Leading and Management Apprenticeships.
Jenny Gibson, HR Director at Cygnet, said: “We believe that investing in our people is one of the most important investments we can make. Apprenticeships give colleagues at every stage of their career the opportunity to learn, develop and achieve nationally recognised qualifications while continuing to make a difference in their roles.
“We are delighted that the scale, quality and impact of our apprenticeship offer have been recognised by the National Care Awards. This shortlisting is also a tribute to the determination of our apprentices, the managers who support them and our Learning and Development colleagues who make these opportunities possible.”
The National Care Awards celebrate excellence, innovation and outstanding achievement across the care sector.
The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on 6 November at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London.