Care home staff's Above and Beyond award after car ploughed into building injuring residents
“We are absolutely delighted and deeply honoured to have received this team award”
Staff at a Sunderland care home have been recognised for going above and beyond the call of duty after having to deal with the aftermath of the devastation caused when a car ploughed into their building.
On July 9 last year (2025) a gaping hole was left in the side of Highcliffe Care Home after a speeding BMW car came off the road and collided with the wall.
The collision caused extensive damage, resulting in some residents having to be evacuated and moved to temporary alternative accommodation.
A number of elderly residents were taken to hospital and two care home residents – a woman in her 90s and a woman in her 80s - passed away the following day.
The stolen vehicle was being pursued by the police when it came off the road.
On November 11 (2025), Sam Asgari-Tabar, who was at the wheel of the stolen motor and already banned from the roads and on a suspended sentence, was jailed for five years and eight months for robbery and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
His passenger Reece Parish, who admitted robbery of the car and violent disorder in relation to an unrelated city centre riot, was locked up for three years and one month.
Due to the extent of the work required to repair the building, it wasn’t until March 10 (2026) when the care home was able to fully reopen.
Following their ordeal, on Saturday June 13, the staff at Highcliffe Care Home were presented with the Above & Beyond Team Award at the Stars of Social Care Awards 2026.
Presented at the Leonardo Royal London St Paul's, the award “recognises the extraordinary professionalism, compassion, and resilience demonstrated by the Highcliffe team following an unexpected incident when a car crashed into the home last year”.
Judges praised the team's ability to come together under pressure while maintaining exceptional standards of care, recognising their commitment to residents and families during an incredibly difficult time.
Following receiving the award, home manager Stacey Lennon said: “We are absolutely delighted and deeply honoured to have received this team award. Every single member of our team is incredibly proud and thrilled to be recognised in this way.
“The past year has brought unexpected challenges, including the shocking incident when a vehicle crashed into our home. In that moment, it was the compassion, professionalism and quick thinking of our team that truly shone through.
“Their dedication helped minimise the impact on our residents and ensured we were able to quickly restore Highcliffe to the loving, safe home it is known to be. This award is a testament to the team's resilience, commitment, and the genuine care they show each and every day.”
The Stars of Social Care Awards are among the care sector's most prestigious events, celebrating excellence across home care and residential care. Hosted by ITV This Morning presenter, Josie Gibson, the annual awards take place across two evenings at the Leonardo Royal London St Paul's and recognise individuals and teams making an outstanding contribution to social care.
Judges said the award “highlights the exceptional teamwork shown across the home, with colleagues supporting one another and working closely with residents and loved ones to provide reassurance and continuity at every stage”.
Highcliffe care home is owned by Avery Healthcare Group.