Rosyth carers win top awards

Hilton Court Care Home won first place in the Specialist Service of the Year category, which recognises a home that demonstrates a one-team approach, respectful person-centred care, and sensitivity to residents' needs, focusing on improving outcomes and aspirations.

Nominations for the home explained that Hilton Court is a great place to live and a great place to work. The team’s success is also reflected in their Care Inspectorate grades, internal audit and training levels.

Howard Skeet, a carer at Hilton Court was also awarded for his exceptional performance in the Emerging Talent category. This award recognises an outstanding colleague who is new to the sector and already making a demonstrable difference.

Howard was acknowledged for throwing himself into life at Hilton Court and setting up a gardening club for the residents; growing vegetables and herbs from seed to plate. It was noted that he has shown a remarkable ability to connect with and understand the needs of everyone, and his positive attitude, eagerness to learn and commitment to excellence is infectious.

Meallmore is one of Scotland’s leading providers of elderly and specialist care. Over 1,500 nominations were made for this year’s Awards - over a third more than in 2023 – across 13 categories, including ‘Nurse of the Year’, ‘Emerging Talent and ‘Positive Impact’.

The event, now in its 13th year, returned to the Dunblane Hydro for the official ceremony with 200 people in attendance from Meallmore’s 26 care homes across Scotland.

Presented by singer and TV personality, Michelle McManus, the awards celebrate Meallmore colleagues who have made a positive impact on improving the lives of the team, residents, and their family members over the past twelve months.

All 2,000 Meallmore colleagues were eligible for an award, with nominations coming from residents and their families, visiting professionals and other members of the team in the weeks leading up to the ceremony.

Speaking on his win, Howard commented: “This is something I totally never expected – this is my first year working in care, but I think everyone seems to like me! I just get stuck in, and the residents come first in every aspect of the day. I’d like to say a big thank you to all my work colleagues who have nominated me for this. I just come to work and do the best I can.”

Commenting on winning Specialist Service of the Year, Care Home Manager Suzanne Pitt added: “We’re really proud and delighted to win this award for the second time in a row, and it’s thanks to all the team.”

Cillian Hennessey, CEO of Meallmore, said: “We have an amazing team across Scotland. Our colleagues work tirelessly to deliver high standards of care across all our services, always going the extra mile for our residents and their families. I’m immensely proud of the care, professionalism and collaborative approach that is clear to see in each of our homes up and down the country.

“Our annual awards are a perfect opportunity to acknowledge the incredible work being done on a daily basis; recognising the difference each and every one of our Meallmore colleagues makes to the lives of our residents. The fact that we received so many nominations this year is testament to that.

“All our finalists have demonstrated remarkable dedication and compassion, and the winners are thoroughly well-deserved. It was incredibly hard to judge! A big thanks also goes to our supplier support, as well as the fantastic Michelle McManus who, once again, has supported us at the awards, shining a light on the care we offer throughout the country.”

On presenting the awards, Michelle McManus added: “I was honoured to be asked to take part in the Meallmore Colleague Awards again this year. It’s always such a positive event with some truly worthy winners. I love hearing the stories behind the nominations, as it’s clear that the team are dedicated, passionate and really care about the residents and their families.

“Thank you to all at Meallmore for inviting me back to be part of this special occasion, and a huge congratulations to all who were nominated. You’re all winners in my eyes.”

Category winners were presented with a certificate, trophy and choice of prize, which included an Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch, Nintendo Switch, Ooni Pizza Oven, Ninja Dual Air Fryer or Fitbit Sense.

As one of Scotland's most trusted health and social care providers, Meallmore is unwavering in its commitment to providing high quality care and support, investing in staff training, engagement and communication to ensure residents have access to the best possible care. The company provides a range of residential nursing, dementia and mental health care across Scotland.