Kindness and compassion bring award for Stonehaven care home worker

Home news

Nov 25, 2014

A determined commitment to enhancing the quality of life for care home residents has brought a devoted and compassionate Care UK housekeeper a national award.

Margaret McPherson, who works at Mowat Court care home in Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, was nominated for the award of Housekeeper of the Year by home manager Kirsten Bell. She said: “Margaret is an invaluable part of the team at Mowat Court. She radiates kindness and compassion and enriches the lives of everyone she meets.”

Kirsten said that Margaret, who is herself aged 74, gives up her free time to take part in activities and to accompany residents on outings. She said: “When carrying out her duties, Margaret will involve any residents who would like to help and this supports their sense of wellbeing as they feel engaged and useful.”

One of the ways in which people with dementia can engage with those around them is through memory boxes – boxes which contain pictures, books, material, posters and all kinds of memorabilia which relate to them and their interests. Margaret has helped to fill boxes for residents in the home’s dementia unit, searching for items which are especially meaningful for each person.

The Housekeeper of the Year award is given to someone who not only offers an excellent service to residents but who can also demonstrate that they make a real difference to helping residents lead fulfilling lives.

Judging the awards, which cover all of Care UK’s 114 residential homes, director of quality and governance Caroline Roberts said: “Margaret is an asset to Mowat Court. Her passion and positivity really shine through and she is always willing to go the extra mile to help the residents with activities and outings.  Every home should have a Margaret!”

Margaret, who received her award at the Residential Care Services dinner on Thursday 20 November, said: “I am so delighted to be given this award. I love my work at Mowat Court and really enjoy getting to know all our residents and helping them to feel really at home here.”