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Celebrating Person-Centred Care 2024: The votes are in!

Thank you to all who attended the staff meetings at the back end of last month.

During this time, you were all asked to nominate a staff member who you felt deserved a special mention for their commitment to the people we support, dedication to the company and an overall team player.

We can now share with you all that the votes have been counted, and it was inspirational to read the words you all said about one another.

It was a close vote!

A big CONGRATULATIONS to Catherine, community support worker and Melissa, night care worker. Your colleagues had wonderful words to say about you, and we, as a management team, can say the same.

Catherine, your colleagues said that you were committed to the people you support, nothing is too much trouble, you always strive to make sure that goals and outcomes are achieved.

Melissa, your colleagues said you were an all rounder, you lead a shift as a shift lead should, you have the residents best interest at the heart of what you do.

Congratulations to you both!

Please come to the office on Wednesday 1st May at 645pm to celebrate your achievements.

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Introducing Anthony Davies: CET Life Skills Facilitator

We are thrilled to introduce our Life Skills Facilitator, Anthony Davies. Thankfully, he found time in his busy schedule to answer a few questions about his role here at CET. We’re sure you’ll agree that we are very lucky to have Anthony on the team and find his responses inspiring!

Introduction and Role Overview
As a Life Skills Facilitator within CET, I am dedicated to empowering service users within the community and residential care settings to lead fulfilled lives by developing essential life skills. My role encompasses guiding individuals to acquire the ten essential life skills as outlined by the World Health Organisation: critical thinking, creative thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, effective communication, interpersonal relationship skills, self-awareness, empathy, coping with emotions, and coping with stress.

By fostering the acquisition of these skills, I aim to support individuals in building confidence, fostering independence, and enhancing their overall well-being. Through personalised interventions and a person-centred approach, I collaborate with each individual to identify their unique needs and strengths, tailoring my support to ensure it connects with and benefits them on their journey toward personal growth and development.

Passion and Motivation
What fuels your passion for aiding individuals in developing life skills? Was there a pivotal moment or influence directing you towards this field?

“Witnessing individuals achieve what they once thought was impossible ignites my passion for aiding individuals with various diagnoses in developing life skills. Seeing their faces light up with joy as they overcome challenges and achieve milestones is incredibly rewarding. This drive was further solidified through personal experiences and a deep-seated belief in the potential of every individual to thrive.”

Challenges and Rewards
Could you discuss some of these challenges and how you address them? What are the most rewarding parts of your work?

“Challenges often arise in helping individuals with various diagnoses navigate social interactions, build confidence, and overcome barriers to learning. However, witnessing their growth, development, and increased confidence is immensely rewarding. Additionally, observing the joy and satisfaction on their faces as they achieve their goals reinforces the importance and impact of my work.”

Personalised Approach
Each individual has unique needs and strengths. How do you tailor your approach to life skills to ensure it connects with and benefits each person you work with?

“I leverage various methodologies to break down complex skills into manageable steps, utilise strengths, and create inclusive learning environments. This ensures that each individual receives personalised support that resonates with their needs and effectively promotes their growth and development.”

Success Stories
Could you share a memorable success story highlighting the positive impact of life skills education on an individual with additional needs?

“One memorable success story involved a young man with autism who initially struggled with anxiety and social interaction. Through targeted interventions he gained confidence and developed leadership skills. Witnessing his transformation from struggling with anxiety to confidently engaging with others and taking on leadership roles was truly inspiring. This success underscores the importance of personalised support and the potential for individual growth.”

Advice for Other
What advice would you offer to educators, caregivers, or professionals who wish to support the life skills development of individuals with various diagnoses?

“Be patient, empathetic, and persistent. Take the time to understand their unique perspectives, leverage their strengths, and utilise evidence-based methodologies to promote their growth and development. Most importantly, approach your work with optimism and positivity, as your attitude can greatly influence their learning experience and overall well-being.”

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Walking Club!

Our club meets every Tuesday, and participants walk pre-planned routes spanning approximately 3 miles. These walks are designed for physical well-being and to enhance social interaction, mental health, and environmental connection. Under the guidance of Anthony Davis, participants enjoy a safe, supportive, and enriching experience tailored to their needs.

For existing service users with various diagnoses and disabilities, our walking club offers a barrier-removing and inclusivity-embraced experience. This is the heart and soul of our walking club, led by experienced Life Skills Facilitator Anthony Davis. Our club is more than just a walking group; it’s a community where every step forward celebrates abilities, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of being amidst nature.

So far, our intrepid explorers have explored breath taking spots like Black Rock, Matlock, and Sherwood Pines. The beauty of these places is not just in their scenic views but also in the sense of achievement and belonging they instil in our walkers. But the journey doesn’t stop here. We are continuously mapping out new routes to explore the diverse landscapes of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, ensuring a variety of experiences that cater to the interests and abilities of our club members.

Our walking club offers numerous benefits, including:

Enhanced Physical Health: Regular walking improves cardiovascular health, flexibility, and endurance.

Mental Well-being: Nature walks have been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Social Interaction: It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet new people, form friendships, and enjoy shared experiences.

Connection with Nature: Experience the beauty and tranquillity of the great outdoors, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.

We understand that starting something new can be daunting, but in our walking club, every step is met with encouragement and support.

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Community Hub Survey by CCT Community Enablement Team Ltd

CCT Community Enablement Team Ltd is developing an access via referral Community Hub, and your input via a brief survey is critical to tailor it to our community’s needs.

Your confidential feedback will shape this inclusive space. Help us build a hub that embodies our collective spirit and aspirations.

Please complete the survey below or access a new page here.

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Celebrating Person-Centred Care 2024: A Message to Our Wonderful Staff

In our ongoing commitment to foster a culture of recognition and appreciation, we’re happy to announce the initiation of the 2024 Person-Centred Care Awards. This initiative is designed to spotlight and recognise our staff members’ dedication and exceptional work, who are at the heart of providing compassionate and individualised care to our residents and service users.

A nomination box will be present during our staff meetings, inviting each team member to nominate a colleague they believe embodies the principles of person-centred care. This is your opportunity to shine a light on a colleague’s hard work and dedication.

We ask that you accompany your nomination with a few sentences explaining why this person deserves recognition. This could be an account of their compassion, innovative approach to care, or unwavering support of residents, service users and colleagues.

After all meetings have concluded, we’ll tally the votes. The staff member who receives the most nominations will receive a special gift and a certificate in the first phase of the 2024 awards, marking their outstanding contribution to person-centred care.

The Person-Centred Care Awards are more than just a gift; they reflect our collective values and commitment to recognising our staff’s incredible work. By nominating a colleague, you acknowledge their excellence and help us to foster a culture of appreciation and mutual respect.

We encourage everyone to participate enthusiastically in this process. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and compassionate care that define our team. 

Stay tuned for updates and the stories of our nominees and winners, which we’ll share in our upcoming blogs, our website, and social media. Let’s make the 2024 Person-Centred Care Awards memorable and inspiring for everyone involved.

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Upcycling is on the up down at the farm!

At Enablement Ark we make use of so many materials which would otherwise go to landfill or simply be dumped. And our animals and service users are very grateful!

Old tyres, pallets, tree branches …. Who says it’s rubbish?

Here at Enablement Ark we have been using old tyres to provide a ‘dish’ for the hay in the goat enclosure. They also love to climb on top of the tyres when we pile them up. Goats are naturally skilled climbers – did you know this? They are curious and active animals so climbing and balancing can be a form of play and exercise as well as survival.

Yum, yum! Lots of hay on offer from tyres that would have been thrown away
Our goats love to balance on disused pallets

With donated old pallets, we have been able to make shelving and along with tree branches, our volunteers and service users have created perches for our chickens.

Disused pallets keeping some of our library of books in order
Our chickens love our home-made perches

For more information about services offered to young people with additional needs at Enablement Ark, please email us on enablementark@challengect.co.uk

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Staff Spotlight – Nicky King

We thought getting to know our staff and their job roles would be a lovely idea. We have an incredibly professional and motivated team that inspires us daily. Next up in our ‘meet our staff’ series is Nicky King from Community Enablement Team and Enablement Care.

Nicky King. Registered Manager of Enablement Care and Community Enablement Team.

Q. What is your role with Community Enablement Team and Enablement Care?
Registered Manager of both Enablement Care and Community Enablement Team.

Q. How long have you been working in care, and how did you get into it?
I started working in care eight years ago. I spoke to a friend who had always worked in care, and she told me I would be great in a care role, so I plucked up the courage to change my career path. I have never looked back; it was the best decision ever!

Q. What does the future hold for you? Do you have an area of special interest?
The future is full of positives and much more hard work and studying.

Q. What is your favourite part of your job?
Interacting with the service users and knowing that you have made a difference in their lives somehow or in some way. Working alongside staff and helping and guiding where I can.

Q. What’s the worst part of your job?
That is a difficult one; I would only say that sometimes the hours can be very long, but sometimes it is needed to ensure everyone is happy.

Q. Do you have a funny story to tell?
Most recently, I was talking to a resident; she asked where I was going – I told her I was going out to work in the community, to which she replied, “You’re like dog s**t you get everywhere.” That really made me laugh!

Q. What’s your superpower? I’m pretty sure all carers have one.
I think I am a bubbly person, and I always try to get people to sing and dance with me, no matter where we are, and they do so. I think my superpower name should be Dancing Queen.

This is a picture of me in Mexico, where I achieved my lifelong dream of swimming with dolphins; it was the most beautiful experience ever!

Q. What do you think is unique about Community Enablement Team?
It allows our service users to live their best lives, enjoying time doing what makes them happy. Whether that is maintaining their bills and household chores or going to the seaside, disco or archery, there is nothing our team will not be happy to support with.

Alpaca walking with a service user.

Q. What advice would you give anyone just beginning their caring career?
Take each day as it comes; no two days are the same. That is the best part of the role.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Being a carer means that no working day will be the same.
You need to take care of yourself; remember to be patient; everyone is an individual.
Don’t forget to enjoy yourself; this passes on to the service user.
Feel free to ask questions and learn from your mistakes.
Build a relationship! That is the most important aspect of care.

Q. What do you think of the training facilities at CET?
We have exceptional in-house training and have recently moved onto an e-learning programme, allowing everyone to learn as many new parts of care as possible.

Q. What would you be doing if you weren’t working in care?
I would probably still be working in the accounts department of the family business that my husband has built up.

Q. What’s your favourite activity outside of work?
I am a massive Liverpool FC fan, travelling all of England and  Europe to watch them. When I am not at work, I ensure I get to as many matches as possible!

I was in Paris for the European Cup Final and got a picture with the great Dirk Kuyt!!
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Registered Care Manager – Enablement Care – Sutton In Ashfield – £35k pa

We currently have a position available for an experienced Registered Care Manager for our 23 bedded care home. The home is registered for adults under and over 65 years who have dementia, physical disabilities, mental health, and learning disabilities.

The successful candidate must have the following:

  • At least two years experience as a Registered Care Manager for Adults
  • Diploma L5, or Registered Nurse or equivalent professional qualification
  • Good standard of written and verbal English
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Full driving license

What Are The Key Responsibilities?

  • Ensure that excellent standards of support are provided to the people who use our service by staff.
  • Ensure that all person-centred care plans are reviewed and updated electronically on Log My Care within the required time frame.
  • Maintain a profitable service through monitoring of cost control, maintaining high occupancy levels, fee adjustments, and effective budgeting.
  • Ensure that the service achieves and remains compliant with the Health and Social Care Act 2008, health and safety, financial regulations, company policies and procedures.
  • Maintain a full complement of staff within the service through safe recruitment.
  • Manage staff e.g. training, delegation of tasks, holding of disciplinaries, conducting investigations, monitoring staff absence.
  • Take responsibility for personal development and attendance at training.
  • Support staff to maintain the service to a high standard e.g. assisting with cleaning, covering shifts if there is a staff shortage, and administering medication.
  • Ensure all staff supervisions and annual appraisals are completed on time.
  • To build professional and positive relationships with staff, the people who are provided with care, and external agencies.
  • Ensure the service has a positive reputation and good relationships with people in the local community, families and friends of the people who use our service and potential purchasers.
  • Achieve excellent internal and external audits of the service.
  • Investigate thoroughly any alleged misconduct, maltreatment, abuse reported in the service.
  • Ensure excellent knowledge of current policies, procedures and governance affecting the service and the company.
  • Ensure that the culture within the service is enabling for people who use our service, actively promoting personalised services with maximum control and choice.
  • To share on-call with senior care staff, and ensure all relevant information is shared with the senior management team. This will come with an added on-call allowance.
  • Become a Registered Manager with CQC

The post with a relevant qualification with two years plus managerial experience will be graded at £35,000 full-time (37.5 hrs) equivalent.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: Up to £35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • Free parking
  • On-site parking

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekend availability

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Sutton-In-Ashfield: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

To apply, please send your CV to operations.lead@challengeCT.co.uk

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Enablement Care Sutton In Ashfield Bed Vacancies

Our small and friendly home ‘Enablement Care’ in Sutton in Ashfield currently has vacancies for those looking for residential care. It is not often that our home has rooms available so please get in touch asap if you would like to know more or would perhaps like to have a look around to meet our staff and get a feel for our home.

Things people say about us…

“We enjoyed our visit to see my nan, they were very welcoming, checked who we were, and checked our LFTs and temperature. We wore our masks and enjoyed our visit. It was clear my nan was well cared for, she was smart, clean, cheerful, and warm.”

“On visiting the care home I found a warm welcome from members of the staff. The home was clean and well organised. A room was set aside for our visit so that we could have a one-to-one chat. This is useful as it gave us a quiet space with my mum. We were able to stay as long as we wanted and we did not in any way feel in the way. The staff do an amazing job and look after their every need. A big thank you to everyone for looking after my mum and keeping her safe.”

“My Mum has been treated with warmth and care since the day she arrived. She is 91 years old and has difficulties with social anxiety that make her loathe to spend time away from her room. The staff always make time to be reassuring towards her, encouraging her to leave her room for meals and for short periods of time and they support her in feeling confident to do so. They are always welcoming when I visit and they are caring. I know I can ring and speak to the manager at any time and ideas to address any concerns that I have will be suggested and implemented. Mum can be resistant to accepting help and wants to be as independent as she can be with regard to personal care, this is respected but staff are always on hand to check that she has managed to dress or undress correctly and to remind her about everyday things such as teeth brushing and washing. Mum always looks clean and well cared for when I visit, a hairdresser, chiropodist, and aromatherapist visits regularly and the food is excellent.”

For more information please give us a call on 01623 397750
or email info@challengect.co.uk.