At 82, Ann Essam, Activities Coordinator at Redcot Care Home in Haslemere, has earned a spot as a finalist in the prestigious National Care Awards – proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.

Ann has been shortlisted in the Care Activities Co-ordinator/Facilitator of the Year category, which recognises individuals who make an exceptional contribution to the quality of life, health, and happiness of the people they care for.

Ann has been with Friends of the Elderly since 2001, taking up her current role after a brief retirement.

“I managed about a year, but I couldn’t take to retirement; I was so bored, I wasn’t ready to stop,” said Ann. “I think the residents relate to me as I’m not too much younger than them.”

Ann was nominated for the award by Jan Daly, Redcot’s manager.

“Ann thoroughly deserves to be a finalist in the Care Activities Co-ordinator/Facilitator of the Year category,” said Jan. “She is a force of nature who gives 110 per cent to the residents every day.”

Ann throws herself into every activity at Redcot, and Jan says she is “amazing,” always dressing up to fit the theme.

Knowing the residents’ love of singing, Ann was instrumental in creating The Redcot Choir, which now performs at many community events and special occasions.

The National Care Awards will take place on 29 November at London’s ExCeL.

Ann is honoured to be a finalist. She said: "To be recognised for doing what I love every day is amazing."