Meallmore Colleague Awards 2025

Every day across Scotland, thousands of people dedicate themselves to making Meallmore’s care homes places where life is full of warmth, dignity, connection, and a welcoming environment for residents and families. Meallmore is recognised as one of Scotland's leading providers of care homes. Great care starts with dedicated people, teamwork, and a supportive community. Once a year, we pause to shine a light on those colleagues whose compassion, professionalism, and creativity define who we are.

On 5 November 2025, more than 250 people from the Meallmore team gathered at the historic Dunblane Hydro for the 14th annual Meallmore Colleague Awards, hosted once again by singer and television personality Michelle McManus. With over 1,750 nominations - a record 20 percent increase on 2024 - the ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements across 13 categories, from nursing and leadership to hospitality and support services. Meallmore’s reputation for great care and its standing within the care sector is recognised not only in Scotland but across the UK.

Chief Executive Officer Cillian Hennessey said:

“Every time I set foot in one of our homes, I’m humbled by the commitment I see. These awards remind us that quality care is a team effort - a blend of skill, empathy, and shared values that transforms lives every single day.”

Meallmore’s commitment to great care is at the heart of everything we do.

Honouring Scotland’s Best in Care

The 2025 winners embody the Meallmore vision: to be Scotland’s most trusted care provider and one of the country’s trusted care providers, consistently delivering excellent care and the right care tailored to individual needs in great places to live and work. Guided by our C.A.R.E. values - Create, Act, Recognise, Engage - they represent every region and every discipline within our homes, reflecting the comprehensive range of care services offered across Meallmore homes.

Below, we celebrate the winners of each category and highlight what their achievements mean in the context of Scotland’s growing care home sector.

Emerging Talent Award

Recognises an exceptional colleague who is new to the sector or has shown significant growth in their role, making a demonstrable difference.

Winner: Alice Harper, Manor Care Centre (Nairn)

‍Alice’s dedication and curiosity stood out among new entrants to the profession. She represents the next generation of compassionate carers - curious, capable, and committed to learning. There is a wide range of jobs and careers available in adult social care, offering opportunities for people with different interests and backgrounds. Her energy and enthusiasm have made her a role model for others starting their journey in Scotland’s care homes. A career in care offers long-term growth and fulfillment, with the chance to make a real difference.

“I’m still learning every day,” said Alice. “But what I’ve realised is that care isn’t just a job - it’s about building relationships that really matter.”

Learning and development are central to Alice’s progress, as she continues to gain new skills and develop professionally. Employers in the sector support staff to achieve relevant qualifications, helping them to progress and succeed.

For more information about careers, qualifications, and opportunities in care, visit our website.

Home Support Award

Acknowledges colleagues in support roles - administration, catering, hospitality, housekeeping, gardening, and maintenance - who ensure welcoming environments where residents feel at home and supported in their daily lives.

Winner: Steven Cowie, Alderwood House (Dumbarton)

‍Steven’s maintenance skills are matched only by his empathy. Whether fixing a resident’s favourite chair to ensure their room remains comfortable and personalised, or helping someone complete a jigsaw, he’s known for his patience and attention to detail, making sure residents are supported in all aspects of daily living.

“Being nominated by residents and families means the world to me,” Steven said. “It reminds me that the little things really do make a big difference.”

Positive Impact Award

Honours a colleague who has positively benefited individuals, services, and the wider sector through sustained input and embodying Meallmore’s values.

Winner: Avril Brown, Manor Care Centre (Nairn)

‍Avril is known for her warmth, enthusiasm, and ability to lift everyone around her. She has made a lasting impression not only on residents but also on her colleagues, inspiring others to bring joy and optimism to their work. Avril’s dedication has made a real difference to residents, colleagues, and the wider community.

“Avril’s positivity is infectious,” said one colleague. “She brings laughter and energy to every corner of the home.”

Home Award – Elderly & Specialist

Awards a home that demonstrates a one-team approach, person-centred care that meets individual needs, and sensitivity to residents’ needs while improving outcomes and aspirations for all.

Winners:

• Elderly Home of the Year: St Modans (Fraserburgh) – providing care for older people in a residential setting.
• Specialist Service of the Year: Hilton Court (Rosyth)

St Modans was praised for its culture of kindness and community, leading the way in innovation and quality improvement. The home offers a range of care options, including residential, nursing, dementia, and respite care, ensuring flexible support for families and residents. Hilton Court, meanwhile, achieved an unprecedented third consecutive win for its mental-health rehabilitation work - a testament to its dedicated multidisciplinary team.

“No other home has achieved this award three years running,” said Hilton Court Manager Suzanne Pitt. “Our team’s dedication and compassion are what make us stand out.”

Brand Ambassador Award

Celebrates a colleague who consistently represents Meallmore’s values and creates a positive work environment.

Winner: Samantha Reynolds, Kelvinside Manor (Glasgow)

‍Samantha’s enthusiasm for promoting resident stories and showcasing daily life in the home made her a natural fit for this award. Her efforts on social media and within the home have helped families connect more deeply with Meallmore’s care philosophy. Samantha also offers advice to families and colleagues, helping them understand and engage with the care home’s philosophy.

Nurse of the Year Award

Presented to a nurse who exemplifies outstanding nursing practice, leadership, and respect for residents, inspiring other colleagues.

Winner: Joecen Gubatan, St Olaf Care Home (Nairn)

‍Joecen is celebrated for her calm, compassionate approach and excellent clinical practice. She has become a trusted figure among residents and families, ensuring every person in her care feels safe and valued. Joecen is also highly skilled in providing compassionate palliative care, offering comfort-focused support to residents and their families during challenging times.

Head Office & Field-Based Support Award

Recognises colleagues from support teams — including accounts, call centre, marketing, HR, facilities, and IT — who provide essential functions across all services.

Winner: Alana Walker (Head Office)

‍Alana’s behind-the-scenes support has made a tangible difference to homes across the group. From streamlining communication to problem-solving complex issues, she represents the glue that holds Meallmore’s operations together. Her work helps maintain the quality and consistency of care across all homes.

Meaningful Activities Award

Celebrates a person who has made an exceptional contribution to residents’ quality of life, health, and happiness through creative, person-centred activities.

Winner: Kincaid House (Greenock)

‍The team at Kincaid House go beyond traditional activity programmes, focusing on sensory experiences, intergenerational partnerships, and community engagement. Their “moments that matter” approach helps residents stay connected and fulfilled, enhancing their overall wellbeing and sense of fulfillment.

Specialist Service of the Year Award

Awards a home that demonstrates a one-team approach, respectful, person-centred care, and sensitivity to residents’ needs while improving outcomes and aspirations.

Winner: Hilton Court (Rosyth)

‍Hilton Court’s integrated approach to care and rehabilitation continues to set the benchmark for specialist care homes in Scotland. The team’s focus on dignity, recovery, and empowerment has made it a leader in its field. Hilton Court also plays a key role in advancing best practices in adult social care for residents with specialist needs.

Manager of the Year Award

Recognises a manager or deputy who has demonstrated vision, leadership, and the ability to deliver high-quality care outcomes while maintaining compliance and commercial awareness.

Winner: Anne Gardner, Kincaid House (Greenock)

‍Anne’s leadership has transformed Kincaid House into a model of consistency and compassion. Colleagues describe her as approachable, fair, and focused on both team morale and resident outcomes. She empowers both staff and residents to have greater control over their daily routines and care experiences.

Senior Care Worker / Practitioner of the Year

Honours a senior care worker or practitioner who delivers quality care and supports colleagues in partnership with nursing and care teams.

Winner: Karis Callaghan, Hilton Court (Rosyth)

‍Karis’s nearly two decades of service reflect Meallmore’s commitment to developing people from within. Known for her expertise and empathy, she inspires everyone around her. She ensures that both residents and colleagues feel supported in their daily lives and work, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

“It’s not just about care plans and medication,” she said. “It’s about helping people feel truly seen.”

Carer of the Year Award

Awarded to a care worker who provides exceptional, person-centred care and shows dedication to their residents and professional development.

Winner: Daniel Okang-Boye, Grove Care Home (Kemnay)

‍Daniel’s warmth and reliability have made him a favourite among residents and families alike. His focus on inclusion and independence embodies the best of Meallmore’s values. Through his dedication, Daniel helps residents thrive and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Meals Mean More Award

Encourages chefs to push the boundaries of what’s possible - experimenting with flavours and techniques while meeting diverse dietary needs.

Winner: Robert Scott, Hilton Court (Rosyth)

‍Robert impressed judges with his creativity and attention to detail, showing that food in care homes can be both nutritious and exciting. These are just some of the ways he elevates dining experiences for residents.

A Day to Remember

With Michelle McManus bringing humour and heart to the evening, the event was as emotional as it was celebratory. Winners took home trophies and prizes - including GoPro cameras and wellness packages - but the greatest reward was recognition from peers who know how much care work matters. The stories behind these nominations show how care staff transform people's lives every day, making a real difference beyond just providing a service.

“The stories behind these nominations are inspiring,” Michelle shared on stage. “These people don’t just provide care - they create communities.”

Leading the Way in Scottish Care

The Meallmore Colleague Awards 2025 reaffirm the organisation’s place at the forefront of care homes in Scotland - not just in quality care but in culture. Across 28 homes and nearly 2,000 colleagues, Meallmore continues to grow sustainably while investing in people, facilities, and innovation. The organisation is expanding across the country with new and innovative facilities, including the opening of a purpose built home in Broughty Ferry and the upcoming Pitfodels Wood Care Home in Aberdeen. Mearns House Care Home also stands as a key part of Meallmore’s community engagement and achievements.

Cillian Hennessey reflected:

“Our greatest achievement is still our people. From nurses to housekeepers, every individual contributes to creating homes where life is lived to the full. We’re proud of our achievements and the dedication of our staff. We’ll keep investing in our teams, our facilities, and our values as we build the future of care homes in Scotland.”

With Thanks to Our Sponsors

The Meallmore Colleague Awards would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors, whose partnership helps us celebrate the incredible achievements of our colleagues across Scotland. A heartfelt thank you to Kirkton Flooring, 1st Waste Management, Blantyre Park Services Ltd, Sim Building Group Ltd, The Service Directory Ltd, Instock Ltd, Crombie Plumbing, Bidfood, Campbells Meat, Spearhead, Raymond Beveridge, Elite, Visioncare at Home, Carebase, Mark Murphy, and Lightsave.

Your continued support not only helps make this event a success, but also demonstrates a shared commitment to recognising excellence and improving lives within Scotland’s care sector. Together, we’re celebrating the people who make our homes such special places to live and work.