From writing an autobiography to dancing at a silent disco and photographing a much-loved community event, three uplifting images have taken the top prizes in Digital Care Hub’s first Digital Care Photography Competition.
Sponsored by Nourish and announced at Digital Care Summit London, held on 23 September, the competition winners reveal how technology can support people’s interests, independence and connections.
Congratulations to everyone – including the People’s Choice winner which was selected by delegates at the summit.
First place: The story isn’t finished by Tamas Roska-Csiki, Chamberlain Court, Hallmark Care
The winning photograph, taken by Tamas Roska-Csiki, shows Shally Hunt, an author living in a care home, using her laptop to continue writing her autobiography. Technology gives Shally the independence to keep creating, recording her memories and sharing her story.
Reacting to the win, Shally said:
“I think the idea of a digital photo competition is good, it lifts us and the caring role and makes us feel like real people, not just patients.”
Photographer and team member at Chamberlain Court, Tamas said;
“The most meaningful part of winning wasn’t simply that the photograph was chosen. Knowing that the image helped show the person behind the care, someone with stories, creativity, ambitions and a life beyond being a resident.”
What the judges said
“I love everything about this image, what it’s saying, how it’s saying it, the colours, the purpose, the positioning, the story. It all comes together to tell an incredible tale. Even the title adds to the impact!” – Lorcan Murray, Nourish
“This is a lovely picture that shows how tech is so essential to helping people live the lives they want to live at every stage.” – Michelle Corrigan, Digital Care Hub
“This image depicts how technology can be implemented effectively to allow individuals to continue living the lives they choose.” – Henry Thornton, Care Management Matters
Second place: Rocking out at the silent disco by Claire Roach, Winash Care Home
The photograph captures residents choosing songs and dancing at a silent disco organised as part of the home’s activities programme. The technology was provided by a local company, helping residents have fun, keep moving and enjoy music in a new way.
What the judges said
“This image tells the story magnificently, showing you how technology can support people to more than just live their life, but to relish it! The colour, the emotion and the technology come together to paint a vivid scene, plus it just exudes fun!” – Lorcan Murray, Nourish
This photograph is so full of joy and life, it shows how great care can be.” – Michelle Corrigan, Digital Care Hub
“This image captures the joy that technology can help to create in an individual’s life.” – Henry Thornton, Care Management Matters
Third place: Official photographer by Joanne McGeachin, Your Voice Counts
Stephen, who has a learning disability, asked Your Voice Counts for help to improve his digital photography skills. The request led to a monthly photography group for people with learning disabilities. Since 2024, Stephen has been the official photographer for Learning Disability Week in South Tyneside — his favourite week of the year.
What the judges said
“I love the shot and story, and the broad understanding of what digital care/enablement means for people. The framing is fab. To capture behind the scenes, with the blurred background of activity too takes a lot of skill. Great framing, in both senses of the word.” – Lorcan Murray, Nourish
“I love that this is a picture which represents technology helping someone get the most out of life, not just being ‘cared for’.” Michelle Corrigan, Digital Care Hub.
“This image clearly captures how digital technology can enhance an individual’s life and empower them to contribute to their local community.” Henry Thornton, Care Management Matters
People’s Choice: Choice and control by Jennifer Pearl and Marcia Williams, TLAP and National Coproduction Advisory Group
Delegates at Digital Care Summit London, held on 23 September, also had the chance to vote for their favourite. The winning entry was Choice and Control which features Jennifer Pearl from TLAP and the National Coproduction Advisory Group, surrounded by a range of technology.
“All the devices that I have give me more choice and control over my life and make me as independent as possible.” – Jennifer Pearl, TLAP and National Coproduction Advisory Group.
Nourish celebrates digital care in action
Reflecting on the winning images, Lorcan Murray, Content Marketing Manager at competition sponsor Nourish, said:
“Digital technology takes many forms in social care. At its best, it is used to promote independence, understanding and ambition. As a software supplier, we always work to keep the people utilising care and support services at the centre of everything we build, so it can best support their goals and community. That is what this competition highlights so powerfully: the many ways people are utilising digital technology to live the lives they want, in a place they call home.”
Sponsor and judges
The competition was judged by: Lorcan Murray from the sponsors – Nourish, Henry Thornton from Care Management Matters (Digital Care Hub’s Summit media partner) and Michelle Corrigan, CEO at Digital Care Hub.
