AN Irvine woman is celebrating after picking up a national care award.

Amanda McBlain, employee of Carewatch Ayrshire, said she was shocked to be named Co-ordinator/ Administrator of the Year at the annual Scottish Care (Care at Home) Awards.

They were held at the Marriot Hotel in Glasgow on Friday, May 18 and hosted by singer and TV presenter Michelle McManus.

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 where she 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.”

“Amanda has always got a happy voice, she makes me feel at ease and is able to tell her how I am feeling,” said one satisfied service user, while a carer commented: “I am confident when Amanda is on call as she supports me and understands my point of view.”

Among the other finalists was another Carewatch Ayrshire employee, Stewart McDowell, who was shortlisted for ‘Carer of the Year’.