TWO new sponsors have been announced for the Daily Echo Proud to Care Awards 2017.

Agincare has chosen to sponsor the Learning Disability Care Worker of the Year category in the awards.

Mark Baker, Agincare Group Recruitment Business Partner, said: "Celebrating good care and those who deliver it remains, and must continue to remain, at the top of the agenda for social care both locally and nationally.

"Agincare are deeply proud and honoured to support this event, which highlights the essential work carried out by our social care workforce and thanks some of the individuals who put their heart and soul in to helping others day after day."

Nurse Plus is sponsored the Care Home Worker Award.

A spokesman said: "Nurse Plus is proud to be supporting the Daily Echo Proud to Care Awards 2017. By working in partnership and sharing the news of valued care workers in the industry, together we are supporting the wider healthcare sector and promoting the benefits of working in care.

"Care homes continue to receive negative media attention, yet care home workers are striving to provide quality, personalised care to those that live there. The Care Home Worker Award is a perfect way to celebrate and recognise this hard work."

The awards, held in conjunction with Bournemouth and Poole councils, aim to recognise all the good work going on in the care industry in Dorset and the New Forest.

We are inviting nominations in 12 categories. Shortlisted nominees and their guests will be invited to a ceremony at the Hamworthy Club on November 7 where the winners will be announced. Entry closes on October 7.

Those interested in sponsoring a category should call Angela Boyer at the Daily Echo on 01202 411221 and nominations cam be made at bournemouthecho.co.uk/care awards

The categories are as follows:

1. Care Home Worker of the Year

2. Care Home of the Year

3. Home Care Worker of the Year

4. Dementia Care Worker of the Year

5. Young Carer of the Year

6. Palliative Care Worker of the Year

7. Volunteer Carer of the Year

8. New Professional Care Worker

9. Family Carer of the Year

10. Learning Disability Care Worker

11. Home Care Provider of the Year

12. Special Recognition award