Considerate care worker honoured with MBE

A housing support worker who has dedicated nearly 40 years to helping and supporting the community of Dundee, has recently been awarded an MBE from Her Majesty the Queen.

At present, Neil Powrie, 61, works with Blackwood Care and received the prestigious honour for his commitment to the provision of voluntary services across the city.

Commenting on his honour, Mr Powrie said: “It was a real surprise when I came back from holiday to discover the envelope waiting for me behind the door – but a very proud moment indeed, when I had got over the initial shock.

“Visiting Buckingham Palace with my family and getting to shake Prince Charles’ hand was a great experience, and being appointed to the membership of such a special Order was a true honour.

“My current role with Blackwood is incredibly valuable to me. Helping to make a difference to the lives of others is something I have always strived towards and supporting tenants across the Dundee community is something I find very rewarding.”

Mr Powrie currently holds the title of Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dundee and has volunteered in a wide variety of jobs across the public sector spanning over four decades.

His positions have included serving 28 years on the Dundee District and city councils, as well as being a member of Tayside Police Board, a National Convener of the Association of Prison Visiting Committees across Scotland. He spent a further 15 years as a scout leader, before taking up his current position with Blackwood in 2007.

The devoted housing support worker was presented the coveted Order of Chivalry at an honorary ceremony at Buckingham Palace, where he was praised by Prince Charles, Duke of Cornwall for his boundless efforts.

Fanchea Kelly, chief executive at Blackwood, added: “This is such a fantastic and well-deserved achievement for Neil and it is a real privilege to have him working with us at Blackwood. His commitment to and passion for supporting our tenants is truly inspirational.

"Everyone here is delighted that his dedication has been commended and we’re sure he will have many more successes in the future."

The royal ceremony was held on Thursday 10 December 2015 at Buckingham Palace.

Edinburgh-based charity, Blackwood, has more than 1,500 homes throughout the country helping those who are older, living with a disability, or with sensory impairments to live more independently.

click here for more details or to contact Blackwood Care