Black Isle Eilean Dubh care home’s ‘unsung hero’ in national awards nod as Parkland celebrates terrific trio
THREE Ross-shire care workers have been shortlisted for the prestigious Stars of Social Care Awards, recognising the best in social care across the UK.
The three nominees work at Eilean Dubh care home in Fortrose, part of the Parklands Care Homes group.
Maintenance coordinator James Paterson has been nominated in the Awesome Ancillary Worker category, while activities coordinators Fiona Stoddart and Claire Goodwin are shortlisted for the Amazing Activities Co-ordinator Award.
James is known as the “unsung hero” of the home – always on call, whether responding to maintenance issues in the early hours or stepping in to support residents and colleagues.
“His commitment, warmth and sense of community have made him a hugely valued member of the team,” said care home manager Alexis Le Neven.
Fiona and Claire have transformed daily life at Eilean Dubh, from organising fashion shows and intergenerational playgroups to leading the care home’s award-winning gardening club and creative arts projects.
Eilean Dubh was recently graded 5 (very good) for the way it supports residents’ wellbeing.
Alexis added: “Their work has brought joy, purpose and pride to residents – and national recognition to our home.”
Parklands itself is also shortlisted for two awards – the Outstanding Care Home Provider Award, reflecting Parklands’ commitment to high care standards and continued investment, and The Great Marketeer award, recognising Parklands’ strong community engagement and communications.
Colleagues from Moray homes have also been shortlisted for two Stars of Social Care awards.
The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in London.
These latest nominations follow Parklands’ earlier shortlisting for four other national awards, recognising its excellence in care and continued investment across the north of Scotland.
The group is a finalist in the HealthInvestor Awards for Residential Elderly Care Provider of the Year and has three nominations at the Care Home Awards - Best for Wellbeing, Best for Marketing, Advertising or PR Activities and Outstanding Smaller Care Home Group.
Ron Taylor, managing director of Parklands Care Homes, said: “We are incredibly proud of our team at Eilean Dubh and across the Parklands group. These nominations reflect the dedication, compassion and creativity that defines our care homes. It’s fantastic to see the hard work of colleagues like James, Fiona and Claire being recognised at a national level.”