Balhousie Care Group reaches finals in three national awards

Published

22nd November 2021

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Leading care provider Balhousie Care Group has reached the finals in three national awards categories, thanks to the stellar work of its staff.

In a challenging year for the care home sector, two individuals have been recognised for their hard work, with nominations in the Great British Care Awards.

Martyn White, 31, Home Administrator at Balhousie Luncarty in Perthshire, has been nominated for the Ancillary Worker Award category.

Martyn surprised even himself when he found his vocation in care, after working as a chef. He joined the home in 2018 where his day-to-day duties include everything from handling petty cash transactions to residents’ allowances and organisational paperwork. He also supports other administrative teams, as well as new recruits.

Balhousie Luncarty's Home Manager Cheryl Banks said: "I couldn't do my job without Martyn, he is the backbone to the team. That's why we're all delighted for him that his skills and dedication have been recognised with this award nomination."

Of his radical career change, Martyn said: “I wanted an office job, Monday to Friday, but I never imagined it would be in a care home. I had no idea what this job would be like but it has turned out to be one of the best places I have ever worked.

He added: “One of the best things is talking to the residents,” he adds. “Listening to their stories when they tell you about the things they have done is fascinating.”

Martyn, who lives in Perth, was featured in a video story in The Courier where he shared his struggles with depression. When he is not working, Martyn is a keen footballer and plays for Kinrossie Caledonian AFC.

Balhousie Luncarty is also a finalist in the Scottish Care Awards for the activities offered to residents. The Perthshire home was recently highly rated by the Care Inspectorate for offering individually tailored activities that promote physical and mental wellbeing.

An 80-year-old care worker at Balhousie’s Huntly care home in Aberdeenshire is also a finalist in the Great British Care Awards.

Liz Thomson, who is older than many of her residents, has worked in a number of areas of the home. Born in Portsoy, Liz worked in hospitality for many years and ran her own bed and breakfast in the rural village of Rayne before joining the Balhousie Huntly family when the home opened in 2012.

Arlene Woods, Operations Support Manager for Balhousie Care Group, said: “Every time we see Liz, she is always on the move, doing something great with our residents. She’s very caring and empathetic. Being older, she has a wonderful understanding and rapport with our residents.”

The Great British Care Awards winners will be announced this week.

For more information visit www.balhousiecare.co.uk