May 28th 2025
The Digital Care Hub was thrilled to support this year’s West Sussex Partners in Care Accolades, which celebrated the amazing people and organisations making a real difference in adult social care. We were especially excited to be part of the Digital and Cyber Innovation Award, recognising those who are using technology in clever, creative ways to improve care, support staff, and keep people safe.
The standard of entries was incredibly high – it was clear that care providers across West Sussex are embracing digital tools with enthusiasm, thoughtfulness, and a real passion for making things better.
Winner: Kristen Deeley and Assist Care Group
The winner of the Digital and Cyber Innovation Award was Kristen Deeley and the team at Assist Care Group, who really blew the judges away.
Following a serious cyber incident, the team took action quickly and with incredible care – not just fixing the problem, but using it as a chance to improve systems, engage staff, and strengthen how they work together.
They’ve built a strong, practical, and inclusive approach that puts safety, learning, and collaboration at its heart. It’s a brilliant example of how to turn a challenge into real, lasting change.
As Sam Cattell, Technical Cyber Lead at Digital Care Hub and judge said:
“Assist Care Group is an inspirational example of organisational resilience, turning a cyber-attack into an opportunity to build a safer, stronger culture for service users and staff. A real-world leadership model for the sector.”
Highly Commended: Kevin Humphrys and the Oakland Care Group
One of the Highly Commended entries went to Kevin Humphrys and the Oakland Care Group. Their nomination impressed the judges with a range of practical digital tools – including AI, fall detection systems, digital care records, and upgraded nurse call systems.
These changes are already having a big impact on care quality and making life easier for staff, thanks to great training and support. The team is also taking cyber security seriously, making sure data is safe, and designing systems that are easy to use and built to last.
The judges loved the clear focus on innovation and leadership – Oakland are definitely showing the way forward.
Highly Commended: Selina Chandran and Kindred Care
The judges were so impressed by the entries that they decided to give a second Highly Commended award, this time to Selina Chandran and Kindred Care.
Kindred Care stood out for their thoughtful and people-focused approach to digital change. They’ve created a strong culture of learning and curiosity, with digital champions supporting staff and people using care services. Regular feedback, personalised training, and a real commitment to doing things safely and ethically – especially around AI – really made their work shine.
It’s clear they’re building digital confidence from the ground up and creating an environment where everyone feels involved and supported.
Huge congratulations to all the winners and nominees — your energy, creativity, and commitment to improving care through technology is truly inspiring. It’s clear that digital innovation is alive and well in West Sussex, and we’re proud to be part of this exciting journey with you.
Related links
Data protection and cyber security guidance and support
Read the Assist Care Group case study
Photo left to right: Iris Steen, Communications Lead, Digital Care Hub, presenting the WSPiC Accolade to Louise Kent, Deputy Branch Manager; Kirsten Deeley, Operational Manager and Business Development Manager; and Tim Wilson, Managing Director, Assist Care Group
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