A BARRHEAD woman has told of her delight after being awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for her work with children’s charities and the community.

Evelyn Oliphant, 54, has also been recognised for her key role as a senior civil servant with the Scottish Government, promoting education across the country.

Her youngest son David, 15, has cerebral palsy and complex needs that require full-time care.

The Barrhead News has previously highlighted efforts by Evelyn and her husband Robin to secure better treatment and facilities for children with his condition.

Evelyn has also raised thousands of pounds for the Children’s Hospices Across Scotland charity (CHAS) through various sponsored activities, including the Kiltwalk.

She has further campaigned for the NHS to provide specialist hospital beds for children with illnesses such as cerebral palsy.

Evelyn, who has another son Calum, 18, said she was both surprised and delighted to be informed about her MBE.

“I have no idea who put me forward but it is a great honour,” Evelyn told the Barrhead News.

“I have been involved in a few charities over the years, particularly since David was born. That really opened my eyes to fight for what was needed.”

Evelyn, who is a past member of the Parent Council at Cross Arthurlie Primary and a current member of the Parent Council at Barrhead High, works as head of the strategic business unit at Education Scotland, helping colleagues in areas such as school inspections and the national curriculum.

Maureen Hamilton, head of operations at Education Scotland, said: “Despite having to act as a full-time carer, she has found the time and energy to work determinedly to fight for and contribute to charities such as CHAS.

“Thanks to Evelyn, The Royal Children’s Hospital in Glasgow now has four beds that keep children like David safe while they are in hospital.

“Evelyn is a truly remarkable person who has faced personal challenges head on and used them to improve the lives of others and their families.

“One of the things that stands out when we think of Evelyn is her continual compassion and empathy. Her patience and understanding is remarkable and we are very proud to call her our colleague and our friend.”

Last December, the Barrhead News told of Evelyn’s concerns over the closure of the Corseford Short Breaks service, in Johnstone, which provided overnight respite care for parents of disabled children.

She is now campaigning for a replacement centre for families.

Evelyn is hopeful that, once restrictions have been lifted, she will be able to receive her award from the Queen, either at Buckingham Palace or Holyrood

She added: “It would be nice to have something to get dressed up for.”