Fife celebrates Africa Day

Fife’s First Care focused Africa Day Celebration Shines a Spotlight on Culture, Community, and Care

Alyson Vale from Abbotsford Care , Audrey MacFarlane from Oran Care. Paul Dundas, Fife Independent Sector Lead and Rachel Payne from Bandrum Nursing Home put on a really successful Africa day celebration on 25th May 25 at Abbotsford Head Office in Kirkcaldy. It was a vibrant event that brought together social care professionals, community members, and partners to honour the rich cultural heritage of African communities working across Fife.

Attendees from each organisation gathered for an afternoon of authentic cuisine, uplifting music, and cultural exchange. The event was designed to foster cross-cultural understanding, celebrate diversity within the care workforce, and strengthen local community ties. The event was put on by the organisations and was free to all staff and their families

Lynne Garvey,  Chief of Fife Health and Social Care was also in attendance. She gave a moving address:

“Africa Day was a celebration of people, pride, and passion. Our international staff bring not only skill and compassion to our services, but also a deep cultural richness that benefits everyone in Fife.”

Guests were treated to traditional dishes prepared by local cook Joy, which attendees described as “a taste of home” and “simply unforgettable.” The event also featured music and personal stories, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere that resonated with everyone present.

Key Outcomes of Africa Day 2025:

  • Increased awareness and appreciation of African cultures in the workplace
  • Stronger bonds between staff and the local community
  • A platform for representation and dialogue around diversity and inclusion

Plans are already underway to expand next year’s celebration, with ambitions to involve more local organisations and build educational opportunities into the programme.

“The energy and joy were contagious,” said one attendee. “It wasn’t just an event—it was a statement of unity and respect.

Carrondale Care Home Recognised in Lodged Parliamentary Motion

Carrondale Care Home Recognised in Lodged Parliamentary Motion for Outstanding Person-Centred Care

Carrondale Care Home in Falkirk has been highlighted in the Scottish Parliament through a motion recently lodged by Michelle Thomson MSP (Falkirk East Constituency) acknowledging the team’s exceptional commitment to person-centred care and creating meaningful opportunities for residents.

The motion was lodged on 15 May 2025 and shines a spotlight on Carrondale’s dedication to improving the lives of residents through education, celebration, and support.

Working alongside Falkirk Council and Forth Valley College, Carrondale has helped residents, including those with complex needs, to gain Level 2 qualifications through the Multiply Maths programme, with some progressing to achieve SQA Level 3 certificates. Further funding has enabled residents to take courses in English, cookery, and digital skills, encouraging continued learning and confidence building.

The motion also celebrates Carrondale’s efforts to mark special occasions, including the 100th birthday of resident Margaret Forest, with a visit from Provost Robert Bissett and a performance from the Jenkins School of Highland Dancers.

A special mention goes to Linda Stewart, Carrondale’s Wellbeing Coordinator, who has been shortlisted for the Dementia Care Awards 2025, recognising her outstanding work supporting people living with dementia and learning disabilities.

In her letter to Carrondale, Michelle Thomson MSP wrote:

“Learning of the fantastic work that your staff have continued to carry out, exemplifying the ethos of person-centred care, I believe recognition in Parliament is rightfully deserved.”

Scottish Care congratulates the entire team at Carrondale for their leadership and compassion in delivering social care that truly puts people first.

Read the Motion Letter here

World Diversity Day 2025 – A Celebration of Culture and Unity

World Diversity Day 2025 – A Celebration of Culture and Unity

On 21st May 2025, the historic Aberdeen Town House came alive with colour, music, and celebration as local care homes joined together for a special World Diversity Day event. The programme was a collaborative effort led by Mel Shearer from Fairview House, Nadine Garcia from Torry Nursing Home, and City Care Homes Lead Nurse Elaine Morrison.

The event began with a warm and heartfelt welcome from Mel Shearer, who shared the inspiration behind the project—to create a space where diversity is celebrated, differences are respected, and staff from different care homes in Aberdeen could come together, connect, and learn from one another. This was followed by a powerful keynote speech from Baldeep McGarry, Diversity and Inclusion Lead at Aberdeen City Council. Her message was simple but strong: diversity is not just acknowledged, it’s celebrated and honoured.

A highlight of the day was the incredible performances by care home staff, showcasing dances from around the world including a Filipino, Jamaican, Polish folk dances and a touching song performed in Tagalog. The Cultural Fashion Show lit up the room with traditional costumes from different countries, each with its own story as narrated by Nadine Garcia.

Throughout the afternoon, guests enjoyed homemade dishes lovingly prepared by staff, each one offering a nostalgic taste of their own home.

Before closing, Elaine Morrison presented the results of a staff survey focused on the onboarding experience of overseas workers, sparking conversations on how to better support and welcome them into our community.

With its music, colour, food, and spirit of togetherness, the event was a huge success! Thanks to everyone who came and supported, it was a day to remember, from our local community, to staff members, Aberdeen Health and Social Care Partnership and Care Inspectorate.  We now look forward to making this a cherished annual tradition.

UHI Argyll showcases innovative training initiative

UHI Argyll showcases innovative training initiative at Parliamentary reception

On Tuesday 29 April 2025, staff and students from UHI Argyll attended the Colleges Scotland Parliamentary reception to present a technology-driven training initiative designed for rural Health and Social Care.

Students Christel, based on the Isle of Tiree; Margaret, who oversees housing and care services across Scotland; and Debbie and Julie, who both work in care settings in Helensburgh, attended the event at Holyrood, along with lecturer Margaret Eccles. Argyll and Bute MSP Jenni Minto was keen to meet the students and hear about the collaboration.

The project, Empowering Care Homes – A Training Partnership is a collaboration between Argyll & Bute HSCP, UHI Argyll, and Scottish Care, aimed at addressing training challenges in rural and island-based care homes. With post-COVID-19 recovery funding, it employs a Train the Trainer model to reduce dependence on external providers and enable care homes to deliver in-house training. Given Argyll’s vast and fragmented geography, this flexible approach ensures staff across remote locations receive high-quality, consistent training.

Participants enrol in UHI Argyll’s CPD course, Plan and Deliver Training Sessions in a Care Setting, which is delivered through live online classrooms, interactive learning tools, remote assessments, and individual tutorials. The programme focuses on critical areas such as dementia and end-of-life care, equipping care staff to train their colleagues effectively.

For rural employers, this initiative offers significant advantages by reducing costs, logistical barriers, and reliance on external trainers. It ensures that training fits within 24/7 staffing models, enhances workforce skills, improves care standards, and supports staff retention by offering accessible professional development. By fostering internal expertise, the programme helps care homes maintain training standards aligned with their unique operational needs. The structured approach integrates training into the daily work environment, making it more relevant and immediately applicable.

Dunoon student Grace said:

“The course can bring numerous benefits not only to my own career, but to my staff and residents too. It enhances staff training, compliance and regulations, improves staff retention, and most importantly leads to better resident care. It has significantly enhanced my leadership skills, boosting my confidence in communication, coaching, and mentoring.”

The partnership between Scottish Care, Argyll & Bute HSCP, and UHI Argyll, highlights the power of collaboration and innovation in overcoming challenges. By embracing technology and innovative approaches, the pilot programme serves as a model for sustainable, high-quality professional development across the region, and other rural areas across Scotland.

Jenni Minto MSP with UHI Argyll students Christel, Debbie, Julie and Margaret, and lecturer Margaret Eccles at the Colleges Scotland Parliamentary Reception

Call-In Homecare Vintage Tea Party

Royal Voluntary Service partners with Call-In Homecare for a delightful Vintage Tea Party

On 23 April, Call-In Homecare hosted a heartwarming Vintage Tea Party in celebration of community, connection, and care to raise vital funds for their charity partner, the Royal Voluntary Service.

In Edinburgh, the atmosphere was filled with nostalgia as the Call-In Homecare Head Office transformed into a vintage-inspired haven, with warm and inviting decorations that transported everyone back in time. Staff and service users dressed for the occasion, sharing tea, laughter, and home-baked treats, lovingly prepared by the Call-In Homecare team.

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A raffle fundraiser added to the excitement, with the team raising £120 to support the invaluable work of Royal Voluntary Service.

For those in Glasgow, Inverclyde, and the West of Scotland, the team took the celebration to individual service users’ homes. Care Assistants delivered thoughtful afternoon tea boxes filled with sandwiches, scones, and cakes, sharing precious time with those they support.

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The tea party was more than a themed event,  it was a celebration of community, dignity, and meaningful connection, providing a platform for service users and Care Assistants to come together, share stories and create lasting memories.

For one service user, Fiona, it was her first time out of bed since Christmas time. She made the effort to be hoisted into a chair to enjoy her tea party fully, a small but powerful victory that brought smiles all round.

To build on the momentum, Call-In Homecare launched an online raffle for a luxury afternoon tea for two, offering more people a chance to support the cause and spread a little joy.

The success of this event highlights the importance of slowing down, connecting, and creating shared experiences, even in the busy world of care at home. Call-In Homecare now hopes to host similar events in the future, continuing to make space for joy and reflection within their services.

Scottish Care congratulates the team at Call-In Homecare for this inspiring initiative and their ongoing commitment to person-centred, relationship-based care. Events like these remind us all of the profound impact that everyday kindness can have.

For more on this story, visit: call-inhomecare.co.uk – Royal Voluntary Service Party

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Hillcrest Futures recognised for creating safe spaces for women in recovery

Hillcrest Futures’ Dundee services that support people with drug and alcohol use have been recognised for their commitment to supporting women by receiving the Welcoming Women Award for their work at South Ward Road.

The services were commended by the Head of Health & Community Care at Dundee Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) for their efforts in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for women in crisis.

The initiative was made possible thanks to funding from the Gendered Services Project, secured by Hillcrest Futures staff with support from Gendered Services Project Manager, Heather Wilkins.

The Gendered Services Project is funded by the CORRA Foundation and the Dundee Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP). The project, which is driven by women with lived experience of complex trauma, aims to support services to develop a gendered approach to service delivery.

Hillcrest Futures Senior Project Worker, Justyna Zalewska explains: “We know that women accessing our services are often in incredibly difficult situations. Having a space that feels safe, warm and welcoming can make a huge difference to their wellbeing.

“Thanks to the funding and feedback from women supported by our services, we have purchased cosy blankets, wall art, cushions, lamps, plants and other decorative items to make our interview rooms and recovery café feel less clinical. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams in ensuring that women feel supported when they come through our doors.”

Lead Officer, Protecting Team, Sophie Gwyther added: “Seeing more and more services in Dundee achieve the Welcoming Women Award is fantastic. For any woman considering accessing support services, it gives them assurance that the service will respond sensitively to their specific needs as women and any barrier they may be worried about will be addressed. Well done to Hillcrest Futures for this achievement.”

One of the women who accesses support from the services shared her experience: “When I first arrived at the service, I felt so emotional. My project worker showed me to the women’s room and let me cry. I started to feel calmer in the surroundings. Having a blanket to cuddle into and the nice smell of the room also relaxed me. It felt so therapeutic while my project worker listened and let me talk.”

From left- Kelly Robb, Hillcrest Futures project worker; Heather Wilkins, Gendered Services project manager; Pauline McIntosh, Hillcrest Futures operations manager; Justyna Zalewska, Hillcrest Futures senior project worker.

Arlene Bunton announced as Finalist in Leading Women in Care Awards!

We are thrilled to share that Arlene Bunton, our Independent Sector Lead for East Ayrshire, has been named a finalist in the “Leader of the Future” category at the prestigious Leading Women in Care Awards 2025!

This recognition highlights Arlene’s dedication, innovation, and leadership in driving positive change within the social care sector!

We are also proud to recognise several Scottish Care members on the shortlist – an exceptional achievement that truly showcases the amazing female leadership within social care in Scotland. Good luck to you all!

Voting is now open and will close at midnight on Friday 28 February. Let’s show our support and celebrate the incredible leadership within our sector!

Cast your vote here: Leading Women in Care Awards Voting

Arlene Bunton Wins Prestigious Award for Championing Inclusivity and Diversity

Arlene Bunton, Scottish Care’s Independent Sector Lead for East Ayrshire, has been recognised for her outstanding work in inclusive dementia care, winning the award for ‘Best Inclusive Dementia Care in Our Diverse Society’. The accolade, presented at a Gala lunch in Sheffield, was organised by the Dementia Community to celebrate innovation and dedication in the sector.

Arlene was honoured for her efforts in promoting inclusivity, specifically through her work with Silver Pride, a project aimed at challenging stereotypes and creating safe, welcoming spaces for older adults who identify as LGBT. The project, funded by the National Lottery, held an awareness event at the Park Hotel in Kilmarnock, which attracted 187 attendees. Guest speakers at the event shared insights on the importance of inclusive care for LGBT individuals living with dementia, and the event marked the beginning of an ongoing initiative.

In collaboration with Stirling University and Gay Men who either work within dementia care or are living with dementia, Arlene is now developing a learning resource to further enhance understanding and practices around LGBT inclusivity in dementia care. This resource aims to support carers and health professionals in providing sensitive and supportive care for diverse communities.

The award, now in its third year, holds special significance as it was designed by an individual living with dementia. The stained-glass piece features a vibrant rainbow border, a perfect reflection of the LGBT community’s emblem, symbolising diversity and unity. Its colourful design, which radiates brilliantly in sunlight, is a poignant reminder of the beauty of inclusivity in all its forms.

Arlene Bunton’s work continues to make a profound impact on dementia care in East Ayrshire and beyond, and this recognition further solidifies her role as a champion for inclusivity and diversity in the sector.

Concert at the Park: Reigniting Innovation in Dementia Care

Hawkhill House has proudly teamed up with 3 other local nursing homes—Tor na Dee, Cowdray Club, and Torry Nursing Home—in an innovative initiative called “Concert at the Park: Sharing Best Practices in Dementia Care.”

Launched in the Summer of 2019, their initiative aimed to improve dementia care by sharing best practices among local nursing homes. After pausing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the home is happy to share that the project has resumed this month with renewed enthusiasm. This marks a significant milestone for all involved, reflecting our commitment to learning and collaboration in enhancing care standards for our residents.

Held at Duthie Park on June 7th, the event showcased each home’s unique contributions to dementia care. Hawkhill House presented their innovative strategies for promoting and supporting nutrition for residents living with dementia. Tor na Dee introduced their Na Maste approach, highlighting its benefits for residents’ well-being. Cowdray Club emphasised their exceptional dining experience, while Torry Nursing Home discussed the therapeutic advantages of their sensory garden.

The event was attended by residents and staff from all four homes and received support from Lorraine McDonald from the Care Inspectorate as well as Steven Booth and Wendy Marsay of the Aberdeen Health and Social Care Partnership.

Feedback from the event has been overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the wealth of knowledge shared and the sense of community fostered.

Mel Shearer from Hawkhill House Nursing Home remarked, “We are delighted with the positive feedback and look forward to our next collaboration next summer. This event has truly demonstrated the strength of uniting and sharing knowledge to deliver the highest quality care for our residents.”

The success of “Concert at the Park” not only highlights the dedication and innovation within each home but also sets a precedent for future collaborations. We are already looking forward to 2025!

A Fond Farewell: Southpark Care Home’s Janice Smith Retires

On Sunday 16 June 2024, Southpark Care Home in Edinburgh celebrated a significant milestone as owner and manager Janice Smith spent her last day at the home. This marked the end of an era for the retirement home, which has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly four decades.

Established in 1984, Southpark Retirement Home has provided care and support for up to 30 elderly female residents. The care home has always been more than just a place of residence; it has been a nurturing environment where every individual is treated with dignity and respect.

Janice’s retirement is a moment of celebration and reflection for the entire Southpark family. Her leadership, compassion, and dedication have no doubt left a lasting mark on the home. Scottish Care wishes Janice a joyful and fulfilling retirement, celebrating a lifetime of service and love.