Buckland Bugle Newsletter Christmas 2023

Issue #2

Winter 2023

BUCKLAND BUGLE LATEST NEWS FROM AROUND THE GROUP

FESTIVE ACTIVITIES ACROSS THE HOMES

Ah, the holiday season! When the air is filled with the scent of freshly baked cookies, the sound of laughter echoes through the halls, and our Buckland Care homes turn into magical wonderlands. As the holiday season approaches, it's important for us to remember why Christmas is so special. It's a time for joy, togetherness, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. This is especially important for all the residents in our Buckland Care homes. Christmas activities not only bring a smile to their faces but also remind them of the warmth and love of family.

Our staff have been spreading holiday joy by organising a vast range of enjoyable activities.

Residents at The Firs gathered to sing festive songs whilst making tea light holders which they will be selling during their festive afternoon on the 14th December. Take a look at their beautiful A Capella performance of Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer by scanning the QR code below!

We’ve seen an aray of beautifully baked goods from across all the care homes, from Christmas cakes to cookies, the smells drifting through the air have brought back so many happy memories of Christmases gone by.

It's important to remember that Christmas is also about giving. To spread festive joy, some of our homes participated in the heartwarming Christmas Shoebox Appeal for the children of Ukraine. These children have faced some very difficult times, and our residents wanted to bring them some much-needed joy by lovingly creating gift boxes filled with essentials and small treats for the children to enjoy this Christmas.

One resident, Janet said, “It’s such a lovely idea and I feel blessed that I could be Residents at The Firs, creating part of it” Christmas boxes

BLACKWATER MILL RESIDENTS FORM A CHRISTMAS CHOIR

Who doesn't love a good old-fashioned sing-along?

The sound of familiar carols filling the air, bringing joy to everyone's hearts. Residents at Blackwater Mill formed a Christmas Choir, their voices joining together in harmony to the songs they hold dear.

Scan to watch full video

Head to our individual care homes Facebook pages to see all the fun activities they’ve been getting up to through the festive month.

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Issue #2

Winter 2023

A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES FROM OUR RESIDENTS The residents at The Firs had a delightful afternoon recalling their favourite Christmas memories and sharing them amongst one another. It was touching to hear about cherished traditions like attending Christmas carol services, decorating the tree and hanging stockings.

The one thing everyone agreed on was that spending time with loved ones is the most important part of the festive season and we couldn’t agree more.

We’ve also seen some beautifully crafted Christmas decorations from several of our homes, from tea light holders, crackers and baubles for the tree. The residents thoroughly enjoy spending time being creative. You can see by the faces of our residents at Inglefield Nursing & Residential Home, how proud they are with the Christmas Tree Gonks they made during their afternoon activities session.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OUR BUCKLAND CARE HOMES The resident from all of our homes would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

“May we never be too grown up to search the skies on Christmas Eve” Scan to watch our residents video

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Issue #2

Winter 2023

BUCKLAND CARE’S ELF DAY A CELEBRATION OF JOY AND GENEROSITY

Staff and residents at The Orchards

Staff and residents at Kingland House

On the 6th of December, Buckland Care homes sparkled with festive cheer as they celebrated Elf Day, supporting the Alzheimer's Society. This event was not just a day of whimsical fun; it was a heartwarming demonstration of community spirit and compassion.

Across the care homes, staff and residents transformed into elves for the day, their costumes ranging from the classic green and red outfits to more inventive interpretations complete with sparkling accessories and festive hats. The halls echoed with laughter and festive music, as everyone embraced the spirit of the occasion. The activities throughout the day were as enchanting as they were meaningful. In one corner, residents and staff gathered for an elf-themed arts and crafts session, creating decorations that brought a personal touch to each home. In the kitchens, the delightful aroma of freshly baked elf-shaped cookies filled the air, with residents taking an active part in the baking and, of course, the tasting.

Staff and residents at Mulberry House

The joy of Elf Day was further amplified by the involvement of the local community. Schools and community groups joined in the festivities, bringing an intergenerational aspect to the celebrations. This interaction not only added to the fun but also fostered a deeper understanding and connection between residents and their wider community. It was a celebration that went beyond festive attire and fun activities; it was a day filled with laughter, shared stories, and a communal sense of purpose. The residents and staff of Buckland Care homes demonstrated the true meaning of the festive season - a time of giving, compassion, and joy.

Buckland Care's Elf Day was not just a successful event; it was a shining example of how a community can come together to make a meaningful difference. It was a day that will be remembered fondly, not just for the fun that was had, but for the warmth and generosity that it represented, truly embodying the spirit of the season.

Perhaps most touching were the moments of shared stories and memories. As residents recounted their own Christmas experiences, beautiful personal histories came to life, reminding us all of the depth and richness of the lives within Buckland Care homes.

The importance of this cause was felt deeply, as many residents and their families are directly affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. The day’s events highlighted the crucial work of the Alzheimer's Society and showed the home’s commitment to this vital cause.

Staff and residents at West Bank

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Issue #2

Winter 2023

INDUSTRY NEWS

CQC INSPECTIONS ACROSS OUR HOMES In the last edition of the Buckland Bugle, we briefed you on the Care Quality Commission's (CQC) evolving priorities and their commitment to supporting the healthcare system through winter challenges. Now, we're here with an exciting update on the CQC's journey towards revolutionising healthcare regulation. They are on the brink of rolling out a new regulatory framework focused on transparency and the significance of ratings in health and social care.

This involves a collaborative effort with stakeholders in shaping strategies, such as designing new assessment reports and developing a provider portal. The CQC is also in the process of reorganising their operational teams into integrated assessment units, a move crucial for adopting these new methodologies smoothly.

As we look forward, the CQC is set to introduce a new provider portal to streamline information submission and refine the process for providers to review draft judgements. They are also enhancing the "Give feedback on care" service and are in the pilot phase of their new assessment methods, gearing up for a comprehensive rollout by the end of 2023. However, the deployment of their improved enforcement processes will be delayed.

These transformative changes will continue into 2024, and Buckland Care will keep you informed and well-prepared, covering detailed insights on 'good' care under the new framework, the impact of these changes on provider-CQC interactions, and case studies from the CQC’s stakeholder engagements, including updates on Good rated homes.

Congratulations are in order for Hartwell Lodge and West Bank, who both received a Good rating in the most recent CQC inspections, showcasing their continued commitment to providing quality care!

SPOTLIGHT ON A TEAM MEMBER PRIMROSE HUKUIMWE Deputy Manager at Inglefield House

How did you end up as the Deputy Manager at Inglefield House?

I relocated from Zimbabe to the UK in 2020 and I joined Inglefield as a staff nurse shortly after. Having never previously worked in a care home, I immediately developed

a passion for providing person-centred care. I was fortunate enough to be closely mentored by the clinical lead at Inglefield who helped me progress into her role when she moved on. My love for my work grew and when the opportunity arose to fill the Deputy Manager position, my colleagues and line manager encouraged me to apply and were a great support in my development at Buckland Care.

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What are you most proud of?

Being part of the Inglefield team. It’s truly amazing how satisfying it is to provide the best quality of care and support to the residents and their families. It makes me immensely proud to be part of such a professional and compassionate team who thrives to provide the most dignified end-of-life care. “We only have one chance to make it right” What do you enjoy most about working for Buckland Care?

The whole team and the culture within the company is amazing. The business has supported me throughout my development and progression within the company and have provided excellent support to me and my family since my move to the UK. Buckland Care has an excellent support structure that is always a phone call away.

Issue #2

Winter 2023

INGLEFIELD CELEBRATES HEARTWARMING PERFORMANCE

BY THE PEARL OF AFRICA CHILDCARE Inglefield Nursing & Residential Home recently had the pleasure of hosting an exceptional event that turned an ordinary November day into a memorable celebration of culture and compassion.

On the 11th of November 2023, the residents and staff were treated to an awe-inspiring performance

by The Pearl of Africa Childcare, a non-profit group touring the UK with a mission to support the children of Uganda.

The day began with a palpable sense of anticipation as the residents gathered, curious and excited about the day's event. As the performers took the stage, their vibrant costumes and infectious energy instantly captivated the audience. It wasn’t just a performance; it was a cultural journey, transcending borders and bringing a piece of Uganda to the heart of the nursing home.

The group's mission to raise awareness and funds for Ugandan children's education resonated deeply with everyone present. The performance, a blend of Pearl of Africa, performing at Inglefield House music, dance, and storytelling, was not only a feast for the senses but also a meaningful gesture of global unity and compassion.

The emotional response was overwhelming.

Residents were visibly moved, with some finding joyous tears in their eyes, reflecting the profound impact of the experience. Staff members, equally touched, shared in the residents' delight, witnessing firsthand the power of music and dance to uplift spirits and bridge cultural and generational gaps.

The Home Manager expressed admiration for the event, noting its significance in creating intergenerational and intercultural connections.

Barbara, a resident, praised the group for their uplifting presence and their dedication to such a noble cause.

To view their wonderful performance, please visit the Inglefield Nursing & Residential Home Facebook page, where you can see their performance on film.

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Issue #2

Winter 2023

THE WARMTH OF WINTER COOKING AT BUCKLAND CARE HOMES Bringing the Festive Spirit to Every Plate As the winter chill sets in, the kitchens at Buckland Care Homes are abuzz with more than just the clatter of pots and pans. It's a place where the heart of Christmas beats the strongest, filled with the warmth of shared stories, the joy of cooking, and the pride of local sourcing - where possible.

The Joy of Involvement In our homes, residents are more than just spectators to the culinary arts. They are active participants, bringing their treasured recipes, stories, and preferences to the table. This Christmas, as we roll out the festive menu, our residents are at the forefront, selecting their favourite dishes and getting involved in food preparation. Whether it's kneading the dough for mince pies or choosing the perfect herbs for the roast, their involvement brings a unique, personal touch to every meal.

A Feast of Local Delights Our commitment to try and use locally sourced produce is not just about quality; it's about community. By choosing local suppliers where we able to, we not only get the freshest ingredients but also support the local economy. This Christmas, our menus boast the best of what our region offers – from succulent meats from nearby farms to fresh vegetables and fruits from local markets. This not only ensures a deliciously fresh Christmas feast but also instils a sense of pride in our residents, who appreciate the local flavours and the stories behind them.

The Benefits are Plenty Cooking and food preparation offer many benefits for our elderly residents. It's a sensory experience that stimulates memory, brings comfort, and encourages social interaction. The act of cooking together, sharing recipes, and even the simple task of peeling vegetables can have therapeutic effects, especially for those with dementia. It's not just about nourishment for the body but also for the soul.

Christmas to Remember This Christmas at Buckland Care Homes, every meal is a celebration – of resident involvement, and of the festive spirit that brings us all together. As our residents gather around the table, they're not just sharing a meal; they're sharing memories, laughter, and the warmth of the season.

In our homes, the festive season is more than just a time for feasting; it's a time for coming together, making memories, and celebrating the small things that make life truly meaningful.

As we tuck into our Christmas dinner, we're reminded of the community spirit, the joy of involvement, and the love that goes into every dish - making this festive season a truly special one for our residents.

Resident at Inglefield House helping with some baking

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Issue #2

Winter 2023

RECIPE OF THE SEASON

ROOT VEGETABLE SOUP FROM HARTWELL LODGE INGREDIENTS 8 oz (225 g) peeled carrots, cut into 2 inch (5 cm) lengths 8 oz (225 g) peeled celeriac, cut into 2 inch (5 cm) pieces 8 oz (225 g) trimmed and washed leeks, halved and cut into 2 inch (5 cm) lengths 8 oz (225 g) peeled swede, cut into 2 inch (5 cm) pieces 1 small onion, peeled and roughly chopped 2½ pints (1.5 litres) stock made with Marigold Swiss Bouillon vegetable powder 3 bay leaves salt and freshly milled black pepper TO SERVE 6 teaspoons fat-free Greek yoghurt a few fresh chives, snipped

METHOD Peel all your vegetables and chop them into nice chunky pieces and place them into the casserole dish. With the lid on, place it in the lowest part of the oven and leave it there for 3 hours, by which time the vegetables will be meltingly tender.

Next remove the bay leaves and process or liquidise the soup in several batches to a puré.

Now gently re-heat, and serve the soup in bowls with a teaspoon of Greek yoghurt swirled into each and garnished with the fresh chives.

UPCOMING EVENTS A few of the events coming up across our homes

Twas the Night before Xmas

Carols from Choir

Sunday 24th December - 6pm at Blackwater Mill

Saturday 16th December at Kingland House The local choir will be performing beautiful carols for the residents at Kingland House

Twas the Night before Xmas poem read by candle light and adapted to Blackwater Mill Home.

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