Praxis Care supports 1,500 adults and children with mental ill-health, learning disabilities, autism and dementia. Its operations cover over 80 locations in Northern Ireland, Ireland, Great Britain and the Isle of Man.

Ciara's service area was the first to pilot Sona for digital shift management as part of a broader revamp of Praxis' employee offer to boost recruitment and retention. As a result, her team are spending 40% less time on rota management and rota-related admin, freeing them up to focus on the things that make a difference to the quality of support they provide.

The change has also given care staff more control and ownership over when they’re working and when they’re not and opened up chances for them to work across different client groups and support areas, broadening their experience and opening up new career opportunities. More streamlined team communication has improved employee engagement, too. 

The pilot's success owes much to Ciara's infectious enthusiasm, a hallmark of her leadership and passion for delivering great care services. Qualities that last year resulted in her winning Highly Commended One to Watch at the CO3 (Chief Officers Third Sector) Awards.