Blossom Home Care Dorset, based in Poole, was named Start-up Home Care Employer of the Year at the 2025 Stars of Social Care Awards, recognising its rapid growth and commitment to high-quality, person-centred care.
Since welcoming its first client in June 2024, the company has expanded to a team of more than 30 staff and now delivers over 500 hours of care in Dorset.
Ben Bushell, co-founder of Blossom Home Care Poole, said: “To receive this national recognition in such a short space of time since we launched is incredible.
“It’s a real endorsement of everything we set out to do, which was to build an outstanding care team, deliver exceptional support to local families and create rewarding careers in the process.”
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Ben Bushell celebrating with team in London. (Image: Blossom Home Care) The company was founded by Mr Bushell and business partner Craig Godbold.
It focuses on re-enablement and “right-sized” care, helping clients regain or maintain their independence with the goal of reducing long-term care needs.
This approach has led to significant results, with some clients seeing their care packages reduced by up to 50 per cent.
Mr Godbold said: “This award belongs to our whole team. It’s their passion, energy and commitment that have made it what it is today.
“Every review we receive from a client confirms we’re doing something right and this award is the icing on the cake.”
Judges praised the company’s investment in training, workforce wellbeing, and community engagement.
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Ben Bushell (second from left) and Craig Godbold (third from right) with members of Blossom Poole team. (Image: Blossom Home Care) Blossom Home Care Dorset has already established partnerships with health professionals, education providers and charities.
It has also signed the Age-Friendly Employer Pledge, supporting inclusive recruitment and development for carers of all ages.
The award marks a second consecutive win for the wider Blossom Home Care network, following success for its Lincolnshire office last year.
Mr Bushell added: “We’re so proud to represent Blossom on a national stage and show just what’s possible when you do care differently.
“This is just the beginning. We have big plans to grow our team and continue improving lives for families across Dorset. Winning this award is a moment of real achievement for the whole team and proof that we’re standing out for all the right reasons.”