Three dedicated people from Balhousie Care Group, one of Scotland’s leading providers of quality residential care, have been recognised at the Scottish Care Awards which recognise the exceptional work of people across the care sector in Scotland.

The winners were announced at a glittering dinner and awards ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow on Friday night.

Amongst the winners was Ben Haddow, the Head Chef from Balhousie Luncarty care home, who scooped the Emerging Talent Award which recognises an individual who is new to the role or has grown into the role and become a shining example to others. Ben began work at Luncarty as a domestic in the laundry team, before becoming a Carer. He kept his cooking hobby to himself before impressing with his outstanding culinary skills.

Lavinia Tanu, a Carer from Balhousie Pitlochry care home, who is also a National Care Award finalist, was awarded Carer of the Year, which celebrates the consistent role of carers in providing a high standard pf quality care. Lavinia, who grew up in Romania, has been providing residents with exceptional care since the Perthshire home opened 10 years ago.

Operations Dementia Manager, Yvonne Manson, picked up the Management and Leadership award. Yvonne, a former RCNi Award Winner, oversees up to 100 dementia ‘ambassadors’ across Balhousie’s 25 care homes in the north and east of Scotland and is a leading expert in the field.

Also, Lizzy McNeilage, Head Chef at Balhousie Rumbling Bridge was a finalist for the Nutrition and Eating Well Award.

Jill Kerr, Group Chief Executive Officer at Balhousie Care Group, said: “Across Balhousie Care Group, there is a reason we call our staff ‘Everyday Heroes’. Seeing such a diverse cross section of our team shortlisted for Scottish Care Awards is fantastic and highlights our commitment to providing the very best care in all aspects of our care provision. We are immensely proud of all our finalists and winners for their outstanding work”

For more information about Balhousie Care Group visit www.balhousiecare.co.uk