We’re thrilled to share some very exciting news: Braeburn Care has been shortlisted as a finalist in not just one – but three categories – at the upcoming Tunbridge Wells Business Awards 2025. It’s a proud milestone for our team, and one that reflects the heart, determination and shared values behind everything we do.
The awards ceremony, which will be held at the iconic Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells, celebrates the most dynamic, impactful and inspiring businesses and individuals across the region. You can learn more about the event and the full shortlist on the Tunbridge Wells Business Awards website.
So, what are we in the running for?
New Business of the Year (Braeburn Care)
This category celebrates start-up businesses operating for less than two years in any sector. While Braeburn Care originally opened in 2014, our journey took an unexpected turn during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a period of closure. In 2024, our founder Harriet Smith made the bold decision to relaunch. Rebuilding the company from the ground up with fresh energy, refined values, and an unwavering commitment to delivering personalised, high-quality care.
Being shortlisted for this award represents so much more than just a strong launch. It acknowledges the resilience, passion and sheer hard work it has taken to bring Braeburn Care back – stronger, braver, and more determined than ever.
Changemaker Award (Braeburn Care)
This award recognises businesses that are actively making a positive impact. Whether that’s through sustainability, ethical leadership, or community contribution. For us, it’s all three.
Braeburn Care was relaunched with a mission to deliver care differently. We’re focused on outcomes, not just outputs – supporting people to live well at home through a holistic, person-led approach. We prioritise ethical employment, personalised care plans, and community connection. We hire local, we train well, and we champion every voice.
This shortlisting reflects how deeply we care about doing the right thing – for our customers, for our care professionals, and for our wider community.
Businessperson of the Year (Harriet Smith)
This category celebrates individuals who demonstrate vision, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. And we couldn’t be prouder to see our founder and CEO, Harriet Smith, shortlisted.
Harriet’s journey with Braeburn Care is one of resilience, leadership and personal investment. As a multi-business owner, mum, and community advocate, she brings strategic thinking and heart to every decision – growing Braeburn Care into a values-led provider built on trust, quality and integrity.
This nomination acknowledges the weight of that leadership, and the inspiring example Harriet sets not just for our team, but for the future of ethical care provision.
Why The Tunbridge Wells Business Awards Nominations Matter to Us
These short-listings are more than external recognition – they are an affirmation of everything we’ve set out to achieve. In a sector as complex and regulated as social care, starting (or restarting) a business is never simple. We’ve done it with intention, clarity and care.
Each nomination aligns with one of our core strengths:
- Innovation and strength in relaunch (New Business)
- Purpose-driven leadership and community focus (Changemaker)
- Strong, values-led entrepreneurial direction (Businessperson of the Year)
They reflect the hours of planning, the team meetings, the tough calls, the smiles shared with customers, and the many moments – big and small – that go into building a business with heart.
A Huge Thank You to Our Team
None of this would be possible without the incredible people behind Braeburn Care. Every member of management, every care professional, every person in our back-office, out in the field and beyond – thank you. You’ve played your part, shown up with care and commitment, and helped build something we’re all proud of.
We are a small team, but a mighty one – and this achievement belongs to all of us. Whether you’ve been with us since day one or joined us along the journey, please know this: we see you, we value you, and we thank you.
What’s Next?
The Tunbridge Wells Business Awards 2025 at Trinity Theatre promises to be a celebration of the incredible businesses shaping the future of Tunbridge Wells. We’ll be there in full support of our fellow finalists, and – fingers crossed – we may be bringing home a trophy or two! But win or lose, being shortlisted in these categories is a huge win in itself.
If you’d like to learn more about Braeburn Care, our services, or how we’re working to change the care landscape in our community, contact our team today;
📞 Call us on 01892 577680
🌐 Learn more at www.braeburncare.co.uk
📩 Email enquiries@braeburncare.co.uk
