Kindness is key for Elaine

A SOCIAL worker for the region was a runner up in a prestigious award.

Elaine Beswick, who is the senior care co-ordinator for complex care in the west of the region, was runner-up in the Jane Davies Award for Person-Centred Practice.

It’s run by Healthcare Improvement Scotland and honours individuals and teams who exemplify compassion, kindness, and a deep commitment to listening and responding to what truly matters to those they support.

Elaine’s recognition comes as a result of her ‘exceptional work’ supporting a vulnerable adult through a period of profound personal loss and transition. Her approach was rooted in empathy, consistency and advocacy, ensuring that the individual’s voice remained central to every decision made. Elaine’s use of tailored communication tools, such as social stories, and her dedication to continuity of care, enabled the person to maintain vital routines and relationships during a time of upheaval.

Clare Morrison, from Healthcare Improvement Scotland, said: “I would like to congratulate Elaine Beswick on her success in the Jane Davies Award. She has done an incredible job, going above and beyond the call of duty to support someone when they were going through a very difficult time. Elaine epitomises everything that the Jane Davies Award is about.”

Also congratulating her, Cllr Andy McFarlane, said: “Elaine’s work is a shining example of the values we hold dear in Dumfries and Galloway: compassion, dignity and person-centred care. Her recognition in the Jane Davies Award is richly deserved and reflects the calibre of our social work professionals.”