Facilities Management colleagues hailed at ASSIST FM Scottish National Awards
Colleagues from Facilities Management were hailed for their achievements after being nominated as finalists at the ASSIST FM Scottish National Awards.
The awards, which were held at Glasgow’s Crowne Plaza Hotel in May, recognise excellence, commitment, and professionalism in the country’s 32 local authorities.
Senior Facilities Assistant Karen Kelly, who is the driving force behind a breakfast club for Meadowpark, was nominated for the Community Focus Award.
Meadowpark, part of Knox Academy secondary school in Haddington, is a specialist provision for young people with complex needs primarily associated with autism spectrum disorder. Karen established the school’s breakfast club in 2021, and its popularity has grown. Around half of the 57 pupils gather in the cafeteria to enjoy breakfast and time with friends before the school day starts.
Karen Kelly
Kenny McCrorie, the janitor St Gabriel’s Primary School in Prestonpans, was nominated for the Outstanding Contribution to FM Services Award.
Kenny was honoured for his actions during an emergency situation at the school last December which resulted in the immediate evacuation of staff and pupils. Displaying remarkable quick thinking, Kenny took control of the situation and prioritised the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved.
The Crookston Care Home Catering Team was nominated for the Outstanding Contribution to Catering Services Award. Comprising a Cook, an Assistant Cook, and a team of Kitchen Assistants, they provide nutritious meals and snacks every day of the year at the 60-bed care home in Tranent.
Their menu, developed through extensive menu tasting sessions with residents and staff, reflects their commitment to catering not just for dietary needs, but for preferences and comfort as well. This approach was highlighted in the glowing feedback received during a recent inspection by the Care Inspectorate where residents and their families praised the quality and variety of food on offer.
Vanessa Sanal, Service Manager - Facilities, said: “We are so proud of our nominees whose hard work was recognised at the ASSIST FM Awards.
“Karen has made an invaluable difference to the lives of children and families in our community through running the breakfast club. She has created an environment where children from all backgrounds, including those who may be struggling financially or facing other challenges, can begin their day with the nourishment and care they deserve.
“Kenny demonstrated exceptional resourcefulness and compassion, going far above and beyond what was expected. His unwavering commitment to the well-being of others make him a shining example of excellence in an emergency response.
“The Catering Team at Crookston display dedication that goes beyond the kitchen. They are adept at managing intricate logistics to meet the diverse needs of the residents, ensuring that every mealtime is a positive and nurturing experience.”