A little goes a long way

When done right, employee recognition creates a workplace culture that helps people thrive. With care homes providing staff with emotionally and physically demanding tasks, appreciation goes a long way and we highlight the benefits below.

Within a care home, there are many roles which help to keep the cogs turning. Staff members include nurses, care assistants, activity coordinators, kitchen staff, housekeepers and those who work in the administrative departments; and each role’s responsibility varies.

With the care industry being a very important one where people’s lives are essentially in the hands of others, the correct skills, knowledge and qualifications are essential to provide safe and effective care to residents. Due to the personal nature of the job, it certainly takes a specific kind of individual to be up to the demands of the role. Often staff members at a care home need knowledge on infection

High staff turnover can lead to disruption in care.

control, manual handling and safeguarding. They must have good communication skills, empathy and a compassionate nature, as caring for residents at a care home can be emotionally and physically demanding.

Care home staff play a vital role in providing care and support to residents and their families, ensuring their wellbeing and high quality of life.

Like in any sector, staff appreciation is incredibly important, but in care home settings – even more so. Working within a care home can be tough on the mind as well as the body, so it’s paramount that your staff know how valued they are.

As we mentioned, the role can be demanding, which can lead to staff feeling stressed or burned out. By showing appreciation specifically to each and every team member can have huge positive effects on morale. Motivation can also be impacted when staff know they are valued, which, in turn, can lead to better job satisfaction and improved quality of care.

Comments to show appreciation amongst staff are advised ‘little and often’ as they can also massively encourage retention. Staff retention rates are important in any workplace, but it is particularly crucial in that of a care home setting. High staff turnover can lead to disruption in care, cause confusion amongst residents and see a decrease in the quality of care offered. By actively showing your staff appreciation, this will encourage staff to stay and continue providing excellent care.

Showing gratitude to on-site team members can also have a knock-on effect to communication, which can help build relationships between management and staff. You want your team to feel like they can come to you about anything and when they feel valued, they are more likely to converse openly and honestly, which can lead to better decision-making and a more effective workplace.

On top of the plethora of benefits listed above, showing your team you are grateful and their work is valued, also massively enhances resident experiences. When staff feel looked after, they will deliver care to a high level; this will lead to satisfaction among residents and therefore better overall health outcomes.

The delivery of care, as well as the general moods and characteristics of care home staff, is a factor that will be at the forefront of potential residents’ and their families’ minds when they look for a suitable care home, so it goes without saying that the overall appreciation of your staff will have direct effects on occupancy rates, and this is something that you must always remember.