AN Essex home care service is one of the first in the UK to receive a milestone accreditation in palliative care.

Bluebird Care Colchester and Tendring has been awarded the Gold Standard Framework's accreditation for their exceptional end-of-life care. 

In turn, this makes them the sole provider in northeast Essex to be honoured with the accolade.

Only three home care providers across the UK have earned this recognition previously and 11 more are receiving the accreditation this year.

An awards gala in Manchester marked Bluebird Care’s accomplishment as the team stood alongside fellow care professionals committed to excellence.

 Melvyn Plum, director of Bluebird Care Colchester and Tendring, said: “We are so honoured to be able to support people and their families with truly compassionate care when they most need it, and I am so grateful to the whole team at Bluebird Care Colchester and Tendring for their commitment and excellence. 

“Having this dedication recognised means the world.

"Our team has invested almost a year of unwavering effort in gaining comprehensive knowledge and practical experience in the field of palliative care. 

“We have extended our support to customers and their families across the community, while applying the GSF practical and evidence-based end-of-life care improvement programme.”