Building care into our communities
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BEING a carer so often means sacrificing your own time and interests for the sake of a loved one, whether it be a partner, parent, sibling or even a child.
This year's Highland Heroes, run by SPP Media, aims to recognise this unique contribution by creating a new category – the carer of the year award.
It is being backed by Robertson Homes, part of the Robertson Group, which began trading in 1966 when Bill Robertson set up a local joinery business in Elgin.
Now one of the largest construction firms in the UK, it employs more than 2300 people – but its foundations are still fixed in the north of Scotland.
Jacqui McPherson, sales manager, north, for Robertson Homes, said: "The company has its roots firmly in Elgin where it was founded more than 50 years ago. We remain very active across the Highlands and take great pride in supporting Highland Heroes.
"It's not just people who benefit from those providing care. Society as a whole increasingly relies on those unsung heroes the award seeks to recognise.
"As a company, we support our local communities through employment, training and sponsorship.
"It is also a genuine pleasure to sponsor a category which celebrates individuals who so freely give of their time and talents."
Giving to charity is something Robertson Homes is keen to continue to do. Earlier this year it donated nearly £2000 from a sale of furniture from one of its show homes to an RAF technician at Lossiemouth who was raising money for Charlie House children's centre in Aberdeen.
Neil Toner, originally from Cullen, ran the Inverness Half Marathon in March and the donation went a long way towards helping children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions and their families.
Miss McPherson added: "There are great things happening across the region thanks to the inventiveness and energy of local companies and individuals alike. Anything which helps to showcase this hugely positive energy already has our vote."
Readers of five SPP Media newspapers across the region are being encouraged to nominate their local heroes across 12 categories in this year's Highland Heroes awards, which are now in their second year.
The new carer of the year award will go to somebody who has made a significant personal sacrifice to help look after a loved one and tend to their needs.
To nominate somebody you feel deserves recognition in this or any other category, fill in this form and post it to Highland Heroes, Scottish Provincial Press, New Century House, Stadium Road, Inverness, IV1 1FG or email it to heroes@spp-group.com. You can also nominate your Highland Heroes online at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/HighlandHeroes2018
The deadline for nominations is midnight on Saturday, September 1.
Readers will be given the opportunity to vote for their favourites before a ceremony on November 8.
