A CARE group that runs five homes in the Borders has won another national honour.

St Phillips Care, who operate Whim Hall near West Linton, lifted the gong for ‘Most Improved’ dementia care home in the UK, whilst being described as a “lighthouse to a generation”.

Last year, the group won the “Most Outstanding Care Group in the UK”.

The Global over 50s Housing/Healthcare Awards held their gala dinner at the beginning of this month in London.

With homes in Jedburgh, Hawick, West Linton and Coldstream, St Phillips were praised for their state-of-the-art facilities and high standards of staff training.

The votes were cast by the Over 50s Housing Publishing Group which reviews standards and trends in senior housing worldwide.

And St Phillips came out on top of the pile.

St Philips Care managing director Dermott Kelly spoke of his delight at winning the award, praising the company for maintaining their high standards.

He said: “In an era of financial astringency, sliding care standards and societal opposition to nursing and care homes, St Philips Care has swum against an outgoing tide to lift standards, source investment, raise brand awareness and create warm, welcoming and nurturing homes.

“I was delighted to receive the award which is a credit to our dedicated staff throughout the group recognises their valued contribution.”

And plans are already afoot to improve and expand facilities at their care homes.

Furthermore, investment has been made in a £100,000 electronic system that helps staff update records quickly and allows residents to leave feedback.