A care manager from Garelochhead is over the moon after being awarded a key qualification.

Lynsey Young, who manages care for 73 people in the Helensburgh area, has achieved an SVQ through her work for Mears Care Argyll.

Her success comes ahead of new regulations coming into force next year which will make it compulsory for all staff working in social services to be both registered with the Scottish Social Service Council, and to study and achieve relevant qualifications.

This is to ensure that the best possible standards of care can be delivered in Scotland to those who need support. Currently, new staff must register.

Julie Elliot, SVQ development manager at Mears, congratulated Lynsey for achieving the qualification.

She said: “It takes considerable time and effort learning and taking regular assessment to achieve this management qualification, while carrying out day to day duties as a care manager.

“Professional development has always been important to us as a care provider.

"We continually strive to develop effective knowledge, skills and values across all our team members. This being an important investment in our staff.”

Mears Care is one of the biggest providers of care at home and supported living services in Scotland.

Services enable people to live independently in their own homes with a bit of extra support.

Mears Argyll is one of 20 branches across Scotland.

For more information, go to www.mearsgroup.co.uk