AN ALLOA man scooped a company award for going the extra mile when looking after elderly and vulnerable people.

Rhys Cunningham, from Parklands Care Home in town, won in the newcomer category at the Meallmore Staff Awards last week.

He recently joined Parklands as a kitchen assistant, delighting residents with his home baking.

Praised for his chocolate brownies, Rhys has become a well-loved member of the team and he makes it his top priority to ensure residents enjoy their meals.

Following the ceremony, he said: “I’m really happy and surprised to have won.

“It’s great to know that I’m doing well in my role and that my efforts are appreciated by the residents and my colleagues.”

The annual awards ceremony, which recognises outstanding staff from the wider Meallmore group of nursing homes, took place at Perth Race Course last Thursday, October 5.

Nominations came from residents, family and friends as well as visiting professionals and fellow staff members.

Beyond a certificate and a trophy, Rhys also won an iPad for his hard work.

Gerry Hennessey, managing director of Meallmore Ltd, added: “I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to Rhys for his well-deserved wins and thank him for all his hard work over the last year.

“Our care home teams are instrumental in ensuring residents not only receive the best level of care and support, but enjoy a good quality of life.

“These awards are an extremely important way of recognising their efforts and hard work.

“This year, all award nominees will also receive a certificate, in recognition of their hard work and achievements.

“I’d like to thank all our staff for their continued support and efforts.”

Meallmore opened its first nursing home for the elderly in 1987 with this year marking the 30th anniversary for the company.

The awards are in their seventh year with sponsorships from Bidvest Food Service, Vision Care at Home, Beacon, Campbells, Just Employment Law, Oranka, PSL, Total Produce, Boots, System Active, Crombie Plumbing & Heating, Bakerac Electro Limited and Elite Furniture.

There were 12 categories at this year’s event - Nutrition & Eating Well, Excellence in Support Services, Head Office and Field Based Support, Meaningful Activities, Staff Newcomer, Excellence in Dementia, Specialist Adult Care-Worker, Nurse of the Year, Senior Carer, Manager of the Year, Carer of the Year and the Special Recognition Award.