Originally from Biggar, William has lived at the East Kilbride care home for just over a year.

He shared his experiences with Provost Bert Thomson, and Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer for Health and Social Care for South Lanarkshire, during a visit hosted by Laura McMillan, Unit Manager at Meldrum Gardens.

William said: “The staff are really good and it was easy to settle in because everyone was so welcoming and easy to talk to.

“There is always someone to chat to.”

The visit followed a recent unannounced Care Inspectorate inspection which awarded Meldrum Gardens grades of 5 (Very Good) in the areas evaluated.

Inspectors praised the care home, managed by South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, for the quality of its care and leadership and for helping residents remain active, engaged and connected to their community.

Senior Social Care Worker Kelly Gilluley, one of the team at Meldrum Gardens, said: “Meldrum Gardens is such a warm, friendly and homely place, and that is exactly what we want for our residents."

Provost Thomson said: “It was a pleasure to visit Meldrum Gardens and, most importantly, to hear directly from William and other residents about their lives and experiences.

“Our social care teams make an important contribution every day, helping people retain their independence, enjoy companionship and continue to live as part of their community.

“That takes compassion, professionalism and a real understanding of each person. William's story brings that contribution to life and the positive inspection findings provide well-deserved recognition of the commitment shown by all of the staff here.”

Professor Sengupta said: “William and I both remembered chatting when he first moved into Meldrum Gardens. Hearing him talk now about his friends, the life he has built here and the sense of community he has found was a powerful reminder of what good care and support can achieve.

“My thanks to Laura, Kelly and all of our colleagues at Meldrum Gardens for the skill, care and commitment they show every day. I would also like to thank residents and families for the trust they place in our staff and for the part they play in creating the welcoming and supportive community that makes Meldrum Gardens such a positive place to live.”