Farewell Rod: our social work legend

Across his long career in social work, Service Manager for Adult Social Care Rod MacKenzie has seen many changes – not least in the offices he’s worked in.

Blotting paper... and an ashtray

Rod “fell into” social work after studying social studies at university and working at Greenlea, a former Victorian ‘poorhouse’ in Edinburgh that was preparing for closure. His official career began at Inverurie Community Hospital: “Based in the old nurse’s home, my office was a former bedroom, with a full-length mirror and a sink,” he remembers. “The office was stark, with a filing cabinet (no computer) and a big desk with blotting paper, a fancy touch-button phone and an ashtray. A different time altogether!”

After supporting hospital discharges and working within Fraserburgh’s farming and fishing communities, Rod moved to East Lothian in August 2000 with his wife Jill and their family. Over the years, he led the Integrated Care Team and served as Access Service Manager, Area Manager and Service Manager. “Not long after Adult Social Work services moved to Randall House, I was appointed Head of Establishment. Unfortunately, the window didn’t open and there always seemed to be issues with the air conditioning. I must give thanks to the Property Maintenance team who I was constantly calling upon – I think I got to know the plant room just as well as them!”

Thoughtfulness and compassion 

Reflecting on his career in East Lothian, Rod paid tribute to the professionalism of his colleagues past and present, saying: “I’m very grateful that we have such good social workers in the team who were able to support residents, family and staff through transition processes with thoughtfulness and compassion.

“I’m particularly proud of the way in which the team the closure of Cockenzie House Care Home. It was very controversial, with adverse local publicity. However, what I recall most was the way the department worked incredibly hard in difficult circumstances, to successfully relocate all of the residents locally.

“I feel privileged to have worked alongside and appointed many East Lothian colleagues who have achieved so much. I have greatly enjoyed seeing them develop their skills and careers while remaining true to social work values.

“I’d also like to thank my managers and colleagues for their support and encouragement over the years. I feel very proud to have been part of East Lothian Council and ELHSCP teams.”

Babysitting and beekeeping (not at the same time)

So, what does retirement have in store for Rod? With the arrival of a grandchild only eight months ago, there will certainly be some babysitting involved. Additionally, following in his father and grandfather’s footsteps he is going to turn his hand (back) to beekeeping! 

In addition to spending more time with family, using his bus pass to visit Edinburgh and Aberdeen to enjoy the architecture and art galleries is on Rod’s cards. As is enjoying a round of golf, a game of cricket and potentially even running the half marathon with wife Jill next year!  But if you’re keen to see him locally, you’ll most likely find him walking the beaches with the dogs!

We all wish you the very best in your retirement Rod, you will definitely be missed!