Ed Russell, Chief Executive of WCS Care, has been presented with an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales during a ceremony at Windsor Castle.

This prestigious award, announced in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List, celebrates Ed’s remarkable commitment to care home residents, and his work to transform the experience of care homes. Over more than 30 years, Ed has devoted his career to enhancing the health, wellbeing, and happiness of those living in residential care, turning care homes into places of hope and joy.

Ed’s journey with WCS Care began in 1992 when he joined as a carer. Since then, he’s taken on almost every role within the charity’s homes, learning firsthand what it takes to create a nurturing and empowering environment for residents and carers alike. His passion for innovation has driven initiatives like circadian rhythm lighting and acoustic night-time monitoring, which have not only improved quality of life, but also set new benchmarks for the sector across the globe.

Reflecting on receiving the OBE, Ed said: “Standing in Windsor Castle to receive this honour from His Royal Highness was an experience I’ll never forget. Having my wife and children there to share the day made it even more special.

“This award isn’t just for me. It’s a tribute to the incredible carers at WCS Care and across the UK who work tirelessly, day in and day out, to ensure residents can live their best lives. I’m proud to be part of a sector that has such a huge impact on the lives of so many people.”

Ed’s dedication has left a lasting impression on the WCS Care team. Lorraine Herbert, General Manager at Woodside Care Village in Warwick said: “What an incredible milestone for Ed and for the care sector! Watching his unwavering determination to improve residents’ lives at WCS and beyond has been truly inspiring.”

Ed added: “There’s still so much to be done to change the public perception of care homes from scary to the vibrant communities they are. I’m excited for the future, helping care homes to continue to innovate and create places that offer hope for people and their families when they need us.”

Photo: Ed receiving his award at Windsor Castle