AN IRVINE woman has won a prestigious care award.

Carewatch Ayrshire employee Amanda McBlain was crowned Coordinator/Administrator of the Year at the annual Scottish Care (Care at Home) Awards.

Amanda said: “I was shocked when they announced my name, it took a few moments to realise it was me that won. I really enjoy my job and love being able to help people, including service users and our own staff when they are out delivering care and support.”

Amanda joined Carewatch Ayrshire, which covers North and East Ayrshire, in 2015. Nominated by her managers for her hard work, commitment and ability, Amanda is dedicated to the team and wants the best for others, working where necessary and making changes to her working pattern to suit the needs of the business.

At Carewatch Amanda turns her hand to office tasks such as coordinating, recruitment, compliance, quality monitoring and customer service. She supports supervisors with care plans and risk assessments and encourages others to follow company process and policies.

Managing director Anna Houston said: “I am so proud of Amanda. She is an invaluable member of our team and has developed her skills, so she can put her hand to any task we ask of her.

"People often forget about the hard work, organising and dedication that goes on behind the scenes so it’s fantastic that Scottish Care recognise this key role.”

The awards – hosted by former Evening Times columnist Michelle McManus – were held at the Marriot Hotel in Glasgow on Friday, May 18.

Stewart McDowell, a fellow Carewatch Ayrshire employee, was also shortlisted within the Carer of the Year category.

Since joining Carewatch in December 2015, Stewart has shown compassion, dedication, flexibility and a willingness to learn. He is relatively new to care, formerly working in factory production, but is passionate about his role and strives to make a positive difference to the lives of the people he supports.