Dovida Meath’s Karla Lynch wins HR of the Year at National Home Care Awards

There were jubilant scenes in Dovida’s Meath office this week as staff celebrated one of their own winning national recognition for her outstanding contribution to her local community.

Kells woman Karla Lynch, who joined Dovida in 2020 and has worked her way up to HR Lead, scooped the prestigious HR of the Year award at the 4th Annual Home and Community Care Ireland (HCCI) Home Care Awards.

The HR of the Year award is presented to someone who demonstrates innovation and a positive contribution to staffing through enhanced recruitment and improved retention. The award recognises an individual who fosters team well being and strives to nurture a caring workplace for all team members.

Dovida Meath General Manager, Catherine Vodden, said: "Karla is organised, reliable, punctual, full of energy and embraces everything that she is asked to do. She is a very strong character and an extremely funny person and is highly regarded by her colleagues."

"Karla was already recognised by her peers earlier this year by being named HR of the Year at Dovida’s national conference, so we all know the qualities she brings to the office every day. To see her win the acclaim of the sector is a fantastic achievement. We’re all so proud of her; she deserves it."

"Working on retention and engagement, Karla has introduced a new caregiver coffee morning to make support more accessible.

Karla hosts monthly coffee mornings at local cafés, which offer a relaxed setting for informal check-ins over coffee and a bun. These gatherings provide a valuable opportunity for Karla to stay connected with caregivers, identify any potential issues and offer timely support."

The HCCI Home Care Awards reward individuals for their outstanding contributions to the Irish home care sector. This year’s awards took place in Athlone on Thursday 11th September. Dovida was shortlisted in six categories, making this the company’s best year yet for winners and nominees.