Perthshire carer picks up top prize
Louise gets accolade in London
Louise Barnett, an operations manager with Balhousie Care Group A Perthshire care worker has scooped a top prize at a national care awards ceremony.
Louise Barnett, operations director at Balhousie Care Group, which runs a number of care homes across Perth and Kinross, picked up the coveted operations manager of the year prize at the National Care Awards.
Louise picked up the accolade at a glittering awards ceremony held in London last month.
Louise was recognised for her work in developing the care group’s ‘Together We’re Great’ initiative, which aims to make both residents and employees at the group’s homes more involved in the care they give and receive.
Louise said: “The name ‘Together We’re Great’ sums up what that initiative is about.
“Through enhanced communication and a focus on individuals and their values, we are showing that Balhousie is only the sum of its parts, which are employees, residents and family members.
“When we took on Steve [White, Balhousie’s first chief executive], we had residents and family members, as well as employees at all levels, sit on recruitment panels. That breaks down hierarchies and fosters engagement at all levels.”
She continued: “We’re also committed to much more community involvement and charity work, which you will see the results of this winter.
“I’m proud to be part of Balhousie Care Group as it continues to strengthen and grow.”
This comes as two other Perthshire care workers from Balhousie Care Group were nominated as finalists in the National Care Awards last month.
Louise Barnett was joined by Heather Smith from Orchard Court in Balbeggie and Elaine Nerr from The Dalguise Centre and Orchard Court as finalists in the prestigious awards.
Heather Smith was nominated for learning disabilities manager of the year, and Elaine Nerr was nominated in the resident engagement category.
Steve White, the group’s new chief executive, added: “I feel honoured to have joined an organisation in the throes of change - and all for the good.
“Balhousie is an inspiring place to work, and it’s so rewarding to see our employees reaching the National Care Awards finals.
“Their recognition among the cream of the care sector crop is well deserved, and we’re delighted that Louise won in her category.”