NHS Western Isles Occupational Therapist named as a finalist in Scotland’s Health Awards

NHS Western Isles is delighted to announce that Amber MacVicar, Occupational Therapist, has been shortlisted for the Young Achiever Award at this year’s Scotland’s Health Awards – an annual celebration of the hard work and dedication of people working in healthcare across Scotland.
 
The Young Achiever Award recognises individuals aged 30 years or younger, who have demonstrated outstanding achievement as part of their working life. Amber’s nomination is a testament to her commitment, compassion, and impact within her field.
 
Reflecting on the moment she discovered she had been shortlisted, Amber said: “I feel incredibly honoured to be nominated and selected as a finalist for the Young Achiever Award at the Scotland’s Health Awards.  To receive this recognition is so early in my career is truly humbling, and I’m especially grateful to my colleagues for their nomination – their supportive guidance means more to me than they'll ever know.
 
“Being shortlisted is a huge honour, but most of all, I'm just grateful to be part of a service that makes a difference in our community and helps people live meaningful and independent lives. Thank you to the patients for letting me be a part of their journey.”
 
In her role, Amber plays a vital part in supporting patients to regain independence during their hospital stay. From assessing daily living skills to providing rehabilitation, equipment, and discharge planning, Occupational Therapy ensures patients are safe, supported, and prepared for life beyond the ward. Amber also promotes mental wellbeing and meaningful activity—making recovery personal and empowering.
 
Her collaborative approach and professionalism have made a significant impact, particularly in building strong relationships with the wider multi-disciplinary team—an essential component of a smooth patient journey.
 
Sonja Smit, Occupational Therapy Services Manager/AHP Mental Health Lead, NHS Western Isles, said: “I was absolutely delighted to hear that Amber was nominated for the Young Achiever Award. It’s incredibly gratifying to see her talents and dedication being recognised. Our team is proud of her, and we’re thrilled to support her in this well-deserved recognition.
 
“She demonstrates positive leadership in her daily work, guiding and collaborating with our OT Support Worker and OT Technical Instructor to ensure patients receive consistent, high-quality care throughout their rehabilitation.”
 
Amber expressed her heartfelt thanks to her colleagues: “I'd like to sincerely thank not only the OT team but the wider hospital team – their encouragement, teamwork and shared commitment to patient care has made all the difference. Their support has allowed me to grow in confidence and capability and to explore the role in how OT can play a key role in improving patient journeys.”
 
Elizabeth Fowler, Quality Improvement Coordinator, was one of the people who nominated Amber for this well-deserved recognition. She said: “I first met Amber at a Discharge Multidisciplinary Team meeting back in April this year.  I was really impressed by her evident compassion and kindness for her patients, and how proactive she was, looking for solutions and supporting other team members to help bring about good outcomes for all.  This powerful first impression has not changed over the intervening months!
 
“Amber has chaired these meetings at short notice on a couple of occasions and done a professional job; she is usually one of the youngest people in the room, but her calm demeanour never falters, and she has brought order and structure into a very busy meeting. Her professionalism, enthusiasm and commitment are always right to the fore.  She is a credit to the Occupational Therapy team, and to NHS Western Isles.  She is always smiling, kind, compassionate and very professional and deserves to be recognised for the huge contribution she is making.”
 
Everyone at NHS Western Isles wishes Amber the very best of luck at the awards ceremony, which is taking place in November in Edinburgh.