Manager of the year
Mariners' Park Care Home manager Grace Holley named National Care Home Registered Manager of the Year at Great British Care Awards.
Nautilus Care Home manager Grace Holley has been named the National Care Home Registered Manager of the Year at the prestigious Great British Care Awards, securing the top national title at a gala event in Birmingham on Friday 27 February 2026.
The Care Home, part of the wider Mariners' Park estate in Wallasey, provides housing, care and support for retired seafarers and their dependants. Run by the Nautilus Welfare Fund, the site is home to a vibrant maritime community – a community Grace has been dedicated to supporting throughout her time as manager.
Grace's national win marks the culmination of a successful year in her career. After securing the North West regional award in Manchester in November 2025, she went on to impress judges at the recent national finals with what they described as an 'inspiring journey into social care'.
According to the judges' comments, published on the Great British Care Awards announcement page: 'Grace's journey into social care is truly inspiring. She brings energy, passion and a strong commitment to delivering meaningful, person-centred support. By actively involving the local community, including partnerships with youth groups, she creates opportunities for residents to share their skills and experiences, proving that learning, connection and growth have no age limit. It was lovely to speak with Grace.'
Nautilus International and the Nautilus Welfare Fund have praised Grace's leadership and the positive impact she continues to have on both residents and staff.
Nautilus director of welfare and care Andrew Jones said: 'On behalf of everyone at Nautilus International and the Nautilus Welfare Fund, a huge well done – this is a fantastic and thoroughly deserved achievement.'
Planning your nautical retirement?
Mariners' Park supports retired and needy seafarers and their dependants who are aged over 55. The park offers a full range of independent living properties; a bespoke supportive living accommodation building for those with care needs; and a 36-bed care home that provides 24/7 care, nursing, dementia and palliative support.
Accommodation is available now for those maritime professionals that have served in the Merchant Navy across all sectors, including maritime pilots and crew on large yachts, as well as those who have served in the Royal Navy.
Arrange a visit to Mariners' Park in Wallasey, UK, to talk about the retirement options or register to have your name added to the accommodation list, by emailing welfare@nautilusint.org or calling +44(0)151 346 8840. There is more information at www.nautiluswelfarefund.org
- Interested in taking a look around at our accommodation at Mariners' Park? Contact us for an appointment or more information.