Jan McCulloch who is the Practice Manager at the Barns Medical Practice in Ayr was awarded the British Empire Medal in the New Years Honours List in December 2025 for her services to practice management and education particularly within the Ayrshire and Arran area.

 

The Lord Lieutenant Sheriff Iona McDonald OBE recently presented the Medal to Mrs McCulloch in Wellington House Ayr.

 

During the presentation the Lord Lieutenant said “Jan McCulloch has been a central figure at Barns Medical Practice in Ayr for over 30 years, rising to the rare position of Management Partner. Known by many as “the boss,” her leadership is marked by integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. She has built a strong, supportive multidisciplinary team that enables clinicians to focus fully on their patients.

 

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Jan provided steady leadership, attending every briefing, interpreting rapidly changing guidance, and ensuring her team remained informed and safe. She chaired daily Covid meetings and led an efficient vaccination programme delivering over 1,500 vaccines, while keeping the practice open and responsive.

 

Beyond crisis management, Jan champions patient involvement. She founded a Patients Participation Group and introduced the “You Said – We Did” initiative, turning patient feedback into practical improvements, including better accessibility and self-monitoring health equipment.

 

Jan also contributes nationally as an Educational Facilitator with NHS Education for Scotland, supporting practices across Ayrshire & Arran and representing Practice Managers in Scottish Government policy groups. Her work on the Competency Framework for Practice Managers and administrative staff demonstrates her commitment to strengthening the profession.

 

Widely respected as a mentor, innovator, and dedicated professional, Jan works tirelessly for the benefit of patients, colleagues, and the future of General Practice in Scotland”.