An Aberdeen carer has had his compassionate efforts recognised in a national competition dedicated to celebrating some of Scotland’s hardest working community members.
David Forbes, 31, of the Hazlehead area began caring for his mum, Elizabeth Wood, after she fell ill 10 years ago.
The 55-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest which led to a hypoxic brain injury.
Ms Wood now suffers from short term memory loss and needs round-the-clock care.
Mr Forbes now spends his time making sure his mum is comfortable and has everything she needs.
“A lot of people tell me it’s a nice thing to do,” he said.
“I just see the compassion and the want to help her.
“I trained to become a carer to be able to give something back.
“At the end of the day we are all going to need care whether or not it’s old age or a disability that impacts on your life there and then.”
Mr Forbes was nominated for RBS: Finding Scotland’s Real Heroes, a programme broadcast on national television earlier this week.
The show followed Mr Forbes and his fellow nominees across 10 categories before viewers were asked to vote for an overall winner in each.
“It’s quite a big thing so I’m really chuffed,” he said.
“I never thought I’d get on the show and when I got the call saying I was shortlisted I was just speechless as I know there are so many carers out there who do the same thing.”
Mr Forbes admits the job can be challenging, with very little time for breaks.
“As a carer you don’t get a social life, which sounds harsh but it’s true,” he said.
“It’s also the reminder for mum as sometimes she can forget what’s she got I have to go through things with her and she’s reminded she can’t do simple tasks like cook for herself.”
And with the festive season in full swing, Mr Forbes highlighted that it’s important we all look after out for each other.
He said: “Make sure people aren’t on their own.
“Many people are isolated due to the weather or having no friends or family.
“Just give that person a phone call or go round for a cup of tea.”