Peterborough care operator celebrates national recognition with four care home awards finalist nominations
A Peterborough-based care operator is celebrating a major milestone after being named finalists in four categories at the prestigious Care Home Awards 2026 — despite entering the awards for the very first time.
Fortava Healthcare, which operates Thorpe Wood and The Maltings care homes in Peterborough, has been shortlisted for:
• Best in Specialist Care
• Best for Innovation in Care
• Best for Communications & Use of Digital Platforms
• Best Nutrition, Food & Dining
The national awards recognise excellence across the UK care sector, highlighting operators that are improving the lives of residents through outstanding care, innovation and leadership.
For Fortava Healthcare, the announcement represents more than industry recognition — it is a celebration of the people behind the care.
Johann van Zyl, CEO of Fortava Healthcare, said: “This is an incredibly proud moment for everyone at Fortava Healthcare. These are the first awards we have ever entered, so to be named finalists in all four categories is truly amazing. It is a testament to the dedication, compassion and professionalism shown by our teams every single day.
“Our colleagues across Thorpe Wood and The Maltings go above and beyond for residents and families, and this recognition belongs entirely to them. We are passionate about delivering care that feels personal, innovative and meaningful, and it is wonderful to see that work recognised on a national stage.”
Fortava Healthcare has built its reputation around person-centered care, focusing on dignity, independence and creating meaningful daily experiences for residents. Teams across its Peterborough homes have introduced innovative approaches to specialist care, enhanced communication with families through digital platforms, and placed nutrition and dining experiences at the heart of resident well being.
Families and residents remain central to the operator’s approach, with care homes designed to be welcoming, vibrant environments closely connected to the local community.
The nominations also highlight the growing importance of innovation within social care — an area Fortava Healthcare has actively embraced as it continues to grow.
Fortava co-founder, Jamie Stuart, added: “This feels like a proud day for the entire Fortava family. We hope this is the first of many opportunities to celebrate and share the exceptional care being delivered across our homes and to shine a positive light on the social care sector locally and nationally.”
The Care Home Awards bring together leading operators from across the UK, making national recognition particularly significant for a locally rooted provider.
The winners will be announced at the Care Home Awards 2026 final ceremony on 15 May 2026.