Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Nurse ‘shines light’ on care home heroes with nomination for award
A NURSE at an Angus care home has been shortlisted for a prestigious award.
Robyn Oliphant, clinical lead and a registered nurse at Balhousie Lisden in Kirriemuir, is a finalist for the Care Home Nursing Award at the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Scotland Nurse of the Year Awards.
Robyn is one of three finalists in her category, which aims to recognise the importance of nursing in social care and those who have made an outstanding contribution to care and quality of life for residents in care homes.
Robyn was inspired to study nursing while working as a carer at Lisden. Qualifying in 2020, she returned to Lisden as a nurse in 2022 and is now clinical lead.
Robyn has been instrumental in implementing more clinical reviews for the residents, with monthly reviews taking place with their local GP.
She has also provided training and support to overseas nurses preparing for exams to join the UK nursing workforce, both at Lisden and within other homes across Balhousie Care Group.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony on May 23 at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
Robyn said: “I’m beyond proud to be a finalist among so many incredible nurses from all walks of the profession.
“I’m also so pleased to be representing care home nurses, who do such wonderful work providing such meaningful care to their residents every single day.”
Balhousie Care Group managing director Karen Johnson, said: “Huge congratulations to Robyn – we could not be more proud of her being a finalist and will be rooting for her at the ceremony.
“To see Robyn, an exceptional care home nurse, recognised by the RCN is a hugely significant moment for us.
“There are many preconceptions attached to care home nursing that often see our nurses being underestimated.
“The work Robyn and all our nurses do is often challenging and extremely varied, working with people with complex needs. I’m delighted to see Robyn shining a light on the incredible work they do.”