Issue 96 23.02.22
The weekly online newsletter for the care sector
Journal aims to overcome death stigma A CARE home provider is supporting residents on their final journeys by talking about death and dying in a positive way. Orchard Care Homes, which has facilities in the Midlands and the north of England, has been speaking to residents to get their perspective on endof-life and what is important to them. By supporting individual wishes, the operator is hoping to give residents comfort and increase their understanding. Director of quality and care Cheryl Baird said: “We want residents to feel empowered and able to discuss all needs including end-of-life. “This journal can be used to support them to do this, via a series of questions that address the circumstances and that can be included in an advanced care plan. “After all, you only get one chance to get it right. “Some feel it is difficult to talk about death and dying because it scares them. We then start to reflect, and this can stir up all types of emotions. “But it is important to talk about end-of-life as it allows your thoughts, feelings and wishes to be upheld by your loved ones or caregivers. “Many people have planned their end-of-life wishes in
advance and we encourage our residents to talk to their families about what they want.” My End of Life Journal is part of Orchard’s care planning process and has been 12 months in the making. It identifies all aspects of needs, including important people who residents would like to be with, where able, during the end-of-life phase. This is carried out respectfully and with empathetic communication, providing the resident and family with as much information as required to promote decision making, and can be carried out over a sustained period if the subject becomes distressing. The journal also includes useful website, references and helpline numbers. In the same way as making a will, My End of Life Journal aims to ensure affairs are in order but from an emotional rather than financial perspective. Headquartered in Harrogate, Orchard Care Homes has been running and managing care homes across the UK for more than a decade. The organisation has invested heavily in modern technologies such as E-MAR (electronic medication), E-Care (electronic care plans) and E-Protect.
The team at Brewster House in Maldon had an entertaining day in store for residents, with their crazy hair event. Staff sported their wildest ‘dos for the day, which brought lots of smiles and laughter to everyone at the home. The occasion was great fun for all, and some residents even wished to take part as well, wearing some vivid, bright colours in their hair. Home manager Femi Shoyombo said: “At Brewster House, we always try and organise unique activities, to deliver engaging and entertaining opportunities for residents. Our crazy hair day event is an excellent example of this. The event was great because both staff and residents could get involved and enjoy the day together. I am proud of the Brewster House team for everything they do for our residents, and for bringing high spirits to the home every day.”
Awards nominations now open OPERATORS wanting to put themselves forward for recognition have been urged to enter the Caring UK Awards. Nominations for this year’s event are now open at www.caringukawards.co.uk The awards, organised by Script Events in partnership with Caring UK, recognise excellence and achievement in all corners of the care industry. And with more than 20 categories up for grabs, there’s something to suit every type of care business. These include everything from Quality in Housekeeping and Catering Team of the Year to Best Outdoor Environment and End of Life Team of the Year. Event director Judith Halkerston said: “We are really excited to be introducing the fifth Caring UK Awards – nominations are coming in and our events team is already
busy ensuring that this year’s event is bigger and better than ever. “Obviously, our main aim is to recognise and honour the best in our wonderful care sector and showcase the innovation and dedication that goes on every day so please share your successes and tell us about your hard work and initiatives by sending in your nominations … it’s a real privilege to read them.” A shortlist in each category will then be drawn up, with winners chosen by an expert industry panel. Trophies will be handed out at a glittering ceremony to celebrate the best of the best, which this year will be held at the Athena in Leicester on Thursday, December 1 and presented by Emmerdale actor Dean Andrews. Closing date for nominations is August 26.