An Irvine-based carer has been shortlisted for a national award.

Dean McMillan, quality officer at Carewatch Ayrshire, has been nominated in the Emerging Talent category at next month’s Scottish Care Awards.

The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony on May 17 at the Marriott Hotel in Glasgow.

Dean, who is based in Irvine and works across North Ayrshire, was delighted to have been recognised.

He said: “I’m very honoured as it is always great to get some recognition in such a big sector, however I’m a little embarrassed as there are so many amazing hard working people out there.

“I love being in the community helping vulnerable people keep their independence and getting the most out of life.”

Anna Houston, Carewatch Ayrshire’s Managing Director, said: “Since joining Carewatch Dean has held a number of roles including care support worker, a supervisor and more recently as a quality officer.

“Having come from a retail background Dean has really found his feet and excelled in Carewatch.

“We get great feedback from service users and their families as he always Carer Dean is up for national award goes that extra mile.

“He is passionate about support and mentoring new staff helping them be the best they can be – we think he is a great ambassador for both the company and the sector.”

The awards have been hailed a huge success in recognising individuals, teams and companies who are delivering care at an incredibly high standard in an era of challenging budgets and within an increasingly demanding work environment.