In my role as RCN Lead Nurse for the Independent Health and Social Care sector in Scotland, I regularly engage with services across Scotland. Having worked within care homes and the broader independent health and social care (IHSC) sector, the NHS and also as a care consultant for the IHSC sector, I have a deep appreciation for the dedication and expertise required to deliver truly high-quality care.
From the moment I arrived, I was warmly welcomed by the manager and deputy manager, who gave me an insightful tour of the home. Throughout my visit, I was struck by the positive atmosphere and strong sense of community. I had the pleasure of talking with many residents, who shared their stories and experiences with genuine pride and openness. It was clear that they feel both valued and supported.
I also had the opportunity to meet a wide range of staff: nurses, care assistants, domestic staff, the administrator, HR, the chef and kitchen assistant, as well as student nurses from the University of the West of Scotland and Glasgow Caledonian University. Their collective passion, professionalism, and commitment to person-centred care shone through in every conversation. I was particularly impressed by the collaborative spirit across the team. From clinical staff and the reflexologist providing wellbeing therapies to all ancillary staff—everyone played a vital role in creating such a nurturing environment. Family members visiting their loved ones also spoke highly of the care and support they experience.
Rashielee Care Home’s recent success at the RCN Nurse of the Year Awards speaks volumes. The team was recognised with three prestigious awards. Firstly, Deputy Manager Jennifer Carruthers was awarded the Care Home Nursing Award, and Manager Kirtsy Cartin was awarded the Clinical Leadership Award before going on to be announced as the 2025 Scotland Nurse of the Year. These honours reflect not just individual excellence, but a culture built on teamwork, leadership, and a drive for continuous improvement.
To mark the visit, we captured the above photograph with two residents, the manager, deputy manager, and myself, proudly displaying Rashielee’s three awards. The image stands as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when compassionate care and professionalism go hand in hand.
Care Home Open Week offers a chance to shine a light on the essential contributions of care homes up and down the country. My visit to Rashielee reaffirmed my belief that excellence in health and social care is rooted in strong relationships, skilled multidisciplinary teams, and a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference every day.
Thank you to everyone at Rashielee Care Home for such a warm welcome, and for setting an inspiring example of outstanding care within the sector.
