An Angus care home worker who goes “above and beyond” the call of duty has been named Scottish carer of the year.
Natalie Driscoll, 41, picked up the top award at a glittering awards ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow.
It recognised her dedication to the job, her interaction with the residents she cares for and her support for other members of staff at Braehill Lodge in Carnoustie.
Natalie has worked at the privately-owned care home for six years.
She said: “I still can’t believe I won this award, it is the first time someone from the east of Scotland has been nominated.
“It’s an amazing feeling. To be a carer is not about the money it’s about the residents.
“You have got to love your job and I see every single resident here as my second family. You get to know them and love them.
“ I don’t expect any awards for what I do because the appreciation is reward enough for me. I’ve been here for six years and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
Natalie, from Carnoustie, started working in the care profession when she volunteered in a care home when she was 15.
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She worked in nursing homes and at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee before running her own business, the Tea Caddie, in Carnoustie for 12 years.
The mother of three added: “I didn’t think I was going to win the award – I am still in shock. It has all be overwhelming.”
Natalie was nominated by her manager, Evelyn Roche, who praised her caring nature and the compassion she shows towards the 24 residents.
This is the first time she has nominated a member of staff for the National Care Home Awards run by Scottish Care.
Evelyn said: “Natalie has been a carer here since 2012 and is the most caring individual.
“When I came her two years ago she helped me change the home around and put good practice in place.
“She has taken on a lot of training with enthusiasm and has relayed this training back to the other staff.”
Natalie’s caring nature continues outside the home as she involves herself with the residents.
Evelyn continued: “She has residents to her house in the summer for cream teas, she is always buying them stuff and never wants money.
“When people pass away relatives always mention her name, she is just a special individual and goes above and beyond the call of duty.
“To win the carer of the year award – you can’t get any better than that.”
As well as Evelyn’s submission, Natalie was also recommended for the award by one of the care home resident’s family who sent in a reference to Scottish Care ahead of the award ceremony which was hosted by Michelle McManus.
