Campaigning and Influencing Award 2025

A community-wide campaign to save the last care home in Lochaber from closure has won Age Scotland’s Campaigning and Influencing award.

A year ago when HC-One, the private owners of Moss Park Care Home in Caol, told residents and families that the home was earmarked for closure, the Highland community came together as one to fight for the home to remain open. 

The Lochaber Action for Moss Park (LAMP) campaign group was formed, made up of relatives of the 40 care home residents and local people who felt strongly that those living there should not be forced to relocate further away from families and friends. 

Norman Calder, whose wife lives in Moss Park, said: 

“If they took her away it would be detrimental to her health and to my health. I go there every day, for three to four hours, seven days a week.” 

Support came from across the community with people holding raffles and other activities to raise awareness and funds for the care home. 

After a meeting with Scottish health secretary, Neil Gray, the campaigners received good news from First Minister John Swinney who said that Moss Park would remain open and be run by NHS Highland and Highland Council. 

Isla Campbell, a LAMP campaigner, said: 

“LAMP are delighted to be recognised for our work to save Moss Park Care Home. The threat of closure was such a stressful time for the families of residents and staff and we had to work quickly." 

"The community response was tremendous, with support from all quarters. We were very relieved and happy at keeping the home open and this award is the cherry on the cake." 

"LAMP continues to support Moss Park. Our latest project is a garden room for the residents to enjoy."