A CARE home worker who ensured that everything ran smoothly throughout the pandemic has been given a British Empire Medal (BEM) in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours.

Michelle Law, who works as the bursar at The Meadows care home in Didcot, worked extra hours and weekends to cover the work of colleagues who were sent home because of Covid-19.

The mother of four, who lives in Grove, near Wantage, and has been featured in the National Care Forum (NCF) Caring in Covid book, was put forward for the Award for services to care home residents far above and beyond her day-to-day role.

She also took on housekeeping, cooking and recruitment administration when needed before going home to organise home schooling for her younger children.

Mrs Law said: ": “I am shocked and but totally honoured to be awarded this BEM. The onset of COVID-19 last year was very hard for all of us working in care but we pulled together to reassure and care for our residents, and to keep in touch with family members.

"It was never a question for me really. I love working at The Meadows. I feel truly honoured to work alongside such amazing people and we are all part of a huge family. I couldn’t sit back and watch other people struggle or see a need and not help to meet it."

Home Manager, Valerie Jarvis, said: “Everyone at The Meadows is thrilled that Michelle has been included in this year’s Queen’s Honours.

"She is a wonderful part of our team; she never complains and is always ready to help with a smile on her face."

Mrs Law will receive her medal at an official ceremony later on in the year.