STAFF at a Clacks care home have been praised for their unwavering support, with one family saying they were granted “peace of mind”.

Sam Gray, 52, moved into Hillview Court in Sauchie nearly four years ago, but passed away recently.

His sister, Ann Allan, has since paid tribute to the team and complimented the kindness and attentiveness of staff, especially as Sam’s health deteriorated.

She told the Advertiser how the caring team went “above and beyond” for her brother.

“They have given us a lot of peace of mind," Ann said. "We just felt that it was genuine care and thoughtfulness and support that we have had from them.”

The family were fortunate to find a spot for Sam in Hillview's Willow Unit, which specialises in supporting those with acquired brain injuries.

Ann continued: “He had a brain tumour – he had two brain tumours in the end. He had been unwell for a number of years and then he was no longer able to live on his own.

“He had spent some time at Strathcarron Hospice and he really couldn’t return home after that.

“There’s not too many places for younger people, he was only 52. It’s quite difficult to find accommodation for younger people.”

What they found at Hillview was more than a care home, with Ann saying they were made to feel like family.

When the bad weather descended earlier this year, Sam’s elderly parents were concerned about him.

However, they were put at ease and the team even offered to collect the family in a four by four.

Relatives were supported during overnight stays and refreshments appeared for them throughout the day, ensuring they did not have to worry about meals.

Staff also organised a sponsored walk around the Kelpies last year, which raised more than £1400 for Strathcarron in recognition of the care Sam received from the charity.

Ann said: “The care and support that has been provided to the family has been tremendous really.

“Even staff coming in on their days off just to check on him to see how he is, to see if they could help and to visit him as well.

“It wasn’t only the staff in the unit that supported us, from the manager to domestic staff, to the kitchen staff.

“We really feel that the support that they have given my brother and the family has just been first-class.

“We can’t express our gratitude really.”