Moray & Banffshire Heroes 2025: VOTE NOW for your carer of the year!
VOTE for your carer of the year by midnight on Monday, March 24!
READ the shortlist in full.
Ayla Louise Ross
A YOUNGSTER from Elgin has been shortlisted for being ‘a wee mother hen’ to her two brothers.
Ayla Louise Ross (6) is a pupil at Seafield Primary. Her older brother Ryan has autism and ADHD, toddler Aaron is 15-months-old.
Two years ago, Ayla was diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and spent time in hospital for treatment. She’s still undergoing tests to determine how best to manage her diagnosis.
Her mum, Rhian, said: “Ayla has a lot to deal with but remains loving and caring. She’s incredibly supportive of Ryan, knowing when he needs space and how best to help calm him. She also loves doing jobs around the house and is always offering to feed or change Aaron’s nappies. She’s a huge help and such a kind girl. She’d be beyond excited if she won this award because she doesn’t realise just how wonderful she is yet.”
In Ayla’s spare time she loves doing arts and crafts, long walks and playing out with friends.
Elaine Robertson
UNDERCOVER research into the standard of care at a nursing home led Elaine Robertson from Aberchirder to discover her dream job.
More than 20 years ago, Elaine began asking questions at a care home in Ladysbridge where her uncles were due to become residents. She wanted to ensure they would have opportunities to stay active, rather than spending their days confined to a room watching TV.
Her curiosity led to a job with the same company, and she quickly fell in love with the work.
Now employed at Community Integrated Care, Elaine has been shortlisted for carer of the year.
She shared: “When I care for people, I understand their diagnosis and limitations, but that doesn’t mean those challenges are permanent. If someone is non-verbal, I continue speaking to them and making eye contact because you never know what they might be able to communicate. It's vital we don't judge people by what they can't do; they can often be supported to achieve new things that enhance their daily life.”
Recently, Elaine helped two brothers move into their own homes, find employment, and enjoy their first holiday abroad.
Charlie Nichols
A CHANCE conversation with a friend led mechanical engineer Charlie Nichols to swap his overalls for a carer’s uniform.
Originally from Australia, Charlie has recently taken on a new role with the mobile start team at Moray Council, helping assess the support needs of patients ready to be discharged from hospital. And help them maintain their independence. He has worked as a carer for the local authority for the past 18 months along with a team of amazing carers.
As a quarter-caste Aborigine, Charlie is proud to live by his cultural beliefs that elderly people should be honoured and revered.
His nomination said: “To watch Charlie tenderly wash the face of an old man is breathtaking. His sense of humour brightens everyone's day; kindness is his password. He is also a befriender and is routinely found searching charity shops for suitable reading material for ‘his gentlemen.’”
Charlie said: “I’m just overjoyed that I get to spend my days talking to people and making sure they know they matter and people are willing to care deeply for them.”
“Also I would like to highlight those husbands and wifies, and family members who care for their loved ones 24/7, who don’t get noticed for the work they do.”
The carer of the year award is sponsored by Parklands Care Homes
Ron Taylor, managing director of Parklands Care Homes, said: “We’re proud to support the 2025 Moray & Banffshire Heroes Awards. With over 30 years of caring for communities across the north of Scotland, we know how important it is to honour those who make a real difference in people's lives.
“We chose to sponsor the carer of the year award because care is at the heart of everything we do. Having been a carer myself, I know the dedication and commitment it takes. This award shines a light on those who give their all to care for others.
“I encourage everyone to vote for the amazing carers in their community. Their hard work often goes unnoticed and this is a great chance to show them the recognition they truly deserve.”
