Ross Johnstone was honoured at Scotland’s first national Learning Disability Awards.

The medical laboratory assistant at Monklands Hospital was awarded the Employee Recognition prize at the ceremony which is run by the Scottish Commission for Learning Disability.

Ross said: “I was surprised to be nominated and I was over the moon to get the award. Everyone was shouting, ‘go Ross’ when I won.

“I feel very proud of myself. My family and the staff at Monklands are proud of me too.”

Ross started out as an intern via Project Search, a course hosted by employers including NHS Lanarkshire, New College Lanarkshire and North Lanarkshire Council to improve the chances of young people with learning difficulties in developing their employability skills.

Lorraine Scott, who oversees Project Search on behalf of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Ross impressed his team so much he was offered a permanent position.

“Four years on, he is now a supportive mentor to the current group of interns and is a real role model for those looking to join the workforce.”

Ross’ role involves opening and numbering samples, preparing them for analysis, office duties and assisting laboratory staff. In the nomination, laboratory staff praised his ‘positive attitude, winning personality and professionalism’.

Louise Brown, technical manager of blood sciences who nominated Ross for the award, said: “Ross’ personality really shines through every day.

“Being part of the team has allowed him to show exactly who he is and given him the confidence to become independent which is great to see.”