Moray & Banffshire Heroes 2024: Carer shortlist revealed!
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Here is your shortlist for the carer award. Voting closes on Sunday, March 24.
VOTE for your Heroes NOW below
Bradley McMillan
Caring takes compassion and dedication, and teenager Bradley McMillan (17) has both despite his young age.
It is his kindness and caring nature that inspired his nomination for a Moray & Banffshire Heroes award.
The Elgin lad has been caring for his mum, who suffers with back issues, for around three years.
Bradley helps to manage the home carrying out daily household tasks including housework and other chores, as well as doing the shopping whenever he’s needed.
Bradley also has a nine-year-old brother who has autism and ADHD, and supports his mum in taking care of his younger sibling, taking him to and from school and stepping in when mum is unable to.
A nomination said: “He does this all while working part time and gives up his time to help. He does this from the bottom of his heart and is always there when he’s needed. He is a brilliant young man.”
As well as his caring role, the teenager manages to find time to relax too, spending time with friends, enjoying hobbies and attending Cadets twice a week.
Bradley was surprised by his nomination but delighted: “I was a bit shocked when I heard the news about it but I feel great!”
Fran Hutton
After 19 years working in the care sector, Fran Hutton decided she wanted to provide support that could go further than she was able to.
Two years ago she founded Helping Hands, a business that offers social and practical support to individuals and respite for families.
A nomination said: “Fran always puts clients' needs before herself. She went out on Christmas Day and delivered hot meals to clients in their own homes.”
Fran explained that while she loved working in the care sector, she was frustrated by some of the limits on the support she was able to give, particularly the social side, so she set up Helping Hands. The business is based in Lossiemouth but supports clients across Moray with a team of five staff.
“I felt I had more to give. We do shopping, help with housework, some people might just want a wee run in the car or have an ice cream in Lossie. We take some of our ladies to the hairdressers or people to the doctor and hospital appointments. And sometimes it’s for respite; where a person has a long term illness and family is finding it difficult, and they just need a couple of hours to themselves.”
When told of her nomination Fran said: “I’m shocked and I feel quite humbled.”
Charlie Spooner
Team leader for A-ND (Autism and Neurodiversity North Scotland) in Fochabers, Charlie Spooner, has been praised for her care and support.
A nomination said: “Charlie gives so much of her time that I’d like to give something back. They provide many with emotional and practical support to live independently. Although the team is small their impact is huge and their work is vital. They go above and beyond to help families struggling, despite being overly stretched and in high demand.”
Founded in 1987 by a group of parents and professionals concerned about the needs of people with autism and their families in the Grampian area, it began as a support group but developed into a organisation with a staff team of 55 providing practical assistance to 156 individuals and their families in Aberdeen city, shire and Moray, and soon in the Highlands.
It supports children and adults in various ways; from supporting young people in school or after school, to helping adults in their own homes to live independently.
While based in Fochabers, the Moray team provides support across the area.
On learning of her nomination Charlie said: “I was really taken aback. For me, I’m just doing what I’m here to do. I know that means so much to people but for that to be recognised has really touched my heart.”
Parklands Care Homes is sponsoring the carer award.
Ron Taylor, managing director of Parklands Care Homes, said: "Caring for other people requires compassion and commitment. As a former carer myself, I know it’s not always easy.
"That's why we're proud to sponsor the carer of the year award at the Moray & Banffshire Heroes awards 2024.
"We understand the challenges carers face, and we appreciate their dedication, whether they're paid professionals or friends and family members.
"If you know someone who goes the extra mile for others, please vote for them for the carer of the year award. It's quick and easy to do – and it shows our carers that you care too.
"Join us in recognising and celebrating these unsung heroes who make a difference every day.”
