The manager of a Tain care home has been recognised at a national awards programme celebrating excellence in social care.
Kate Walker, manager of Innis Mhor Care Home, part of the Parklands Care Homes group, received a High Commendation in the North and Midlands region of the Inspirational Care Home Manager category at the Stars of Social Care Awards.
The awards recognise individuals and organisations making an outstanding contribution to social care across the UK.
Kate began her career in social care as a care assistant before qualifying as a nurse. After spending four years working in an acute hospital in Perth, Australia, she returned to the Highlands, where she progressed to deputy manager of a care home in Dornoch before becoming manager of Innis Mhor in 2021.
Known for her hands-on approach, Kate starts each day walking around the home and speaking with residents and staff. Under her leadership, Innis Mhor has achieved ‘Very Good’ Care Inspectorate ratings, with inspectors highlighting the home’s leadership and support for residents’ wellbeing.
Kate said, “I was genuinely surprised to receive this recognition. It means a great deal to me, but it really reflects the dedication and commitment of the whole team at Innis Mhor. Every day, our colleagues go above and beyond to support residents and their families, and I am proud to work alongside them.
“I started my career in care when I was 17 and quickly realised it was something I loved. I enjoyed helping people and putting a smile on their faces, and that is still what inspires me today.
“I have been fortunate to work with people who encouraged me throughout my career, from my early days as a care assistant through to qualifying as a nurse and moving into management. I have always been grateful for the support and opportunities I have been given.
“It is a privilege to work in social care and to support people at such an important stage of their lives. Making a difference in someone’s day is all I have ever wanted to do. I feel very fortunate to be part of a team that cares deeply about our residents and works hard to make Innis Mhor a happy home.”
Innis Mhor is part of the Parklands Care Homes group, which operates 13 care homes across the Highlands, Moray and Aberdeenshire.
Jacqui Ferguson, operations director at Parklands Care Homes, who attended the awards ceremony, said, “Kate is an exceptional manager and a genuinely caring leader who always puts residents at the heart of everything she does.
“She leads by example, supports her team and works tirelessly to ensure Innis Mhor is a place where people feel safe, valued and at home. We were all delighted to see Kate receive this recognition, which is thoroughly deserved, and equally proud to see Fiona recognised among the finalists in her category.”
The national recognition comes at a time of continued investment at Innis Mhor. Plans have recently been approved for an additional 12 bedrooms to meet growing demand, as part of a wider multi-million-pound investment programme that will see Parklands expand care provision across the Highlands, Moray and Aberdeenshire.