Worthing company crowned best home care employer in Britain
A Worthing company has been crowned the best home care employer in Britain, with 130 staff covering the area from Rustington to Steyning.
Egalité Care, based in Findon Valley, had made the national shortlist for Home Care Employer of the Year every year for the past seven years and finally won the title at the Great British Care Awards 2026, held in Birmingham.
The company feels the victory is long-awaited recognition of consistent high standards and a proud new achievement, having been rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission.
Gemma Wetherill, registered manager, said: “Winning this award is a testament to every single one of our 130 staff members. To be recognised as the best home care employer in the country, after years of being so close, is an incredible feeling.
“We don't just provide care, we pride ourselves on a home-from-home environment for our clients and offering a lifelong career for our staff.
“We even embark on truly memorable experiences for our clients, such as holidays to France and trips to places such as Harry Potter World, because everyone deserves the best life possible."
Having joined as a support worker in 2010, Gemma is a great example of Egalite’s commitment to career progression. She has risen through the ranks over the past 16 years and was appointed registered manager this year, as founder Debbie Clark is taking a partial step back.
Gemma said the positive work culture had even extended to the next generation, as her 18-year-old daughter, Millie, has now joined the team as a support worker.
Egalité has two staff members who have been with the company for 18 years but the sector is often challenged by staff turnover and the company is currently recruiting for additional support workers and a deputy team leader.
The team covers Worthing, Coombes, Ferring, Lancing, Rustington, Sompting, Steyning and Washington, supporting more than 70 individuals across eight care houses.
The company, which provides supported living services for younger adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health and autism took the south east title last year and has now won the national trophy, having competed with nine other regional winners for the title.