Dumfries and Galloway Council is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Elaine Beswick, Senior Care Co-ordinator for Complex Care in the west of the region, who has been named Runner-Up in the prestigious Jane Davies Award for Person-Centred Practice.
The Jane Davies Award, run by Healthcare Improvement Scotland, was established in memory of Jane Davies, a pioneer in Scottish healthcare engagement. The award honours individuals and teams across Scotland 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, Healthcare Improvement Scotland’s Director of Engagement and Change, 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.”
Cllr. Andy McFarlane, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Social Work Services Committee, 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.”
Cllr. John Young, Vice Chair of the committee, added:
“Elaine went above and beyond to ensure that the individual she supported felt safe, heard and respected. Her creativity and perseverance in the face of challenges are truly inspiring. We are incredibly proud of her.”
Elaine’s achievement highlights the vital role of social work in supporting people through complex and emotional journeys and reinforces Dumfries and Galloway Council’s commitment to delivering care that is not only effective, but deeply human.