Double celebration at Wick care home with retirement and long service award
There was a double celebration in a Wick care home at the weekend as two members of staff were honoured.
Kitchen porter Margaret Sutherland retired after nearly 28 years at Seaview House, while activities coordinator Mandy Wilson received her 25-year service award.
A tea party for residents and staff took place in the lounge to mark Margaret’s last day on Saturday. She received numerous gifts on her retirement.
Margaret started in Seaview House as a care assistant in April 1995. She worked for 13 years as a carer and then the last 15 years as a kitchen porter.
“My time at Seaview House has been great, with lots of good memories," Margaret said. "I've seen five managers pass through Seaview’s doors since I started.
“I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and doing more volunteer work with North Highland Cancer Information and Support Centre in Thurso, a charity that helps people and families who have gone through cancer or are going through it at present.”
General manager Gayle Magennis said: “It has been a pleasure working with Margaret over the past year. She will be missed immensely after her years of dedication to her Seaview family."
Mandy Wilson started at the care home in February 1998 and works with residents and their relatives to ensure their needs are met.
Mandy began as a care assistant at Seaview House and after four years took up the post of activities coordinator. She plans residents' daily activities, musical entertainment and outings.
Mandy is also the community engagement champion for Seaview House and arranges trips and visits to the care home through her contacts.
“I have loved my 25 years at Seaview House,” Mandy said. “I always try to think outside the box when arranging activities and events for our residents.
“I have just recently arranged for Caithness and Sutherland Vintage and Classic Vehicle Club to pay us a visit when their season starts with all the old cars, and Therapy Ponies Scotland are returning with their miniature ponies.
“We also have a good relationship with Noss Primary School and ELC, with us visiting them or them coming here. It's lovely seeing the kids interact with the residents.
“Our aim is to be as person-centred as we can be.”
Gayle Magennis said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating 25 years of loyal service with Mandy Wilson. She has demonstrated her dedication and loyalty to this home and its residents year after year.
"I speak for all of us here at Seaview House when I say that I’m looking forward to many more years of working with Mandy.”
Seaview House is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers. Seaview House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 42 residents from respite care to long-term stays.
