A SELFLESS hairdresser who turned her salon into a pop-up foodbank and delivered medication to the most isolated during lockdown is among the unsung heroes nominated for the Oxfordshire Health & Care Awards.


Without any hesitation or concern for her own welfare, Paula Cross, owner of Kriss Kross Hair & Beauty in Carterton, volunteered at Broadshires Pharmacy at the outset of the Covid-19 outbreak, dropping off medicine to those unable to leave their homes. She then set up a foodbank at her shuttered business, providing a vital lifeline for her community.


In awe of Paula’s devotion, boundless courage and resilience, her friend Carla Timms has now put her forward for the Unsung Hero in the Community Award.
“Paula has had to deal emotionally and financially with her business being closed during lockdowns but has done absolutely everything to support everyone else around her,” she said. “She is such an inspiration.”


Last December, Paula also organised a Christmas meal delivery for vulnerable people facing the festive period alone. Through it all, and while grappling with financial hardship herself, her upbeat disposition and kindness have been a great source of comfort and solace for countless in the community.


“She has brought love, joy and most importantly friendship to so many people,” added Carla. 
“She has tried to unite and help people at the most difficult time. She has received a local Covid hero award but I don’t think she realises what an inspiration she is to everyone around her. 
“Her business is just an example of the extensive measures she has gone to keep people safe and has gone above and beyond as always.”
The unstoppable businesswoman has now set her sights on raising funds for a mental health charity.
“She has this month walked 100 miles for a local mental health charity to raise vital funds. 
“But I don’t think she realises what an inspiration she is to everyone around her. 
“She has given up her time, raised money for charity and organised a food bank all whilst trying to keep a business afloat and her family and staff safe. She has gone above and beyond as always.”


To nominate your local healthcare heroes simply go to oxfordmail.co.uk/awards. All nominees should be willing to be featured in the Oxford Mail, Oxford Times and online and have their picture taken, if required.