Black Isle MP Visits Fortrose Care Home Ahead of Fifth Anniversary

Black Isle MP Jamie Stone visited a Fortrose care home as it prepares to mark its fifth anniversary.

Mr Stone, who represents Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, dropped into Eilean Dubh care home, meeting staff and catching up with residents, including some old friends from the local community, as they enjoyed a game of cards.

The MP toured the 40-bed home and saw first-hand the role it plays in supporting local families.

Eilean Dubh opened in April 2021 following a £5.5 million investment by Parklands Care Homes. Since then, it has become an important part of the local community, hosting regular coffee mornings, fundraising events and live music. The home has built strong links with Fortrose Academy, local primary schools and nurseries, and has even hosted its own popular playgroup.

Residents also enjoy a varied and active lifestyle. Eilean Dubh’s gardening club has won multiple prizes at local horticultural shows, the home has hosted fashion and talent shows and took part in the Highland Hospice HeArt Trail, designing a unique sculpture that represents life at the home.

It is rated “very good” across all areas by the Care Inspectorate, reflecting consistently high standards of care, leadership and environment.

Susie Mackenzie, Finance Director at Parklands Care Homes, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Jamie Stone MP to Eilean Dubh as we approach our fifth anniversary. The team has worked incredibly hard to create a warm, welcoming environment where residents feel part of the community, and we’re looking forward to celebrating that with residents, families and the wider community.”

Jamie Stone MP said: “It was hugely encouraging to visit Eilean Dubh care home because it demonstrated just how good a state-of-the-art care home can be. I was greatly impressed by the dedication of the staff and the fact that the residents were happy leading active, engaged lives.”