A message from Dan, our Chief Executive
It’s hard to believe it’s already the autumn… did we bypass the summer?
Whilst this summer was more typically British, with quite a lot of unwelcome rain between the sunshine, I hope everyone had the chance to take a break and enjoy the time of year.
On a personal level, this summer was quite busy, and a time for some reflection. My son Seth made the move from primary school to secondary school and that brought back memories for me of the first day nerves, but also the excitement of things changing.
I also turned 50 over the summer, and I’ve spent 20 of my 50 years at the Trust. I’m now the proud owner of reading glasses, and you may have noticed that I am definitely paying less attention to the latest fashion trends! Perhaps the biggest change to come with hitting 50 is the determination to contribute something. I’m lucky that I work for an organisation that contributes something to society every day, and I hope to be able to do my bit to support that for many years to come.
I’ve had the privilege of visiting quite a lot of homes and schemes so far this year, and I particularly enjoyed judging the gardens of the Trust in Bloom competition finalists. All of our gardens are looking much better this year, and the knock-on effect was that the Trust in Bloom standards were higher than ever.
Gardens are an important part of our homes and schemes, offering green spaces where residents and loved ones can enjoy time together outdoors surrounded by nature. They are vibrant places for activities such as yoga classes and entertainment, barbecues, picnics, and afternoon tea – with some of our gardens even supplying the vegetables for these meals. They are havens for wildlife and showcases for creativity, with upcycled and decorative items such as mosaics made in the home. But I am most impressed by our green-thumbed residents, volunteers, and employees, who are so actively committed to creating and caring for these beautiful places for the enjoyment of all. I hope that everyone who wants to get outside is encouraged to do so.
Another highlight this summer was the St John’s Day mass and investiture held at the Brompton Oratory in London in June. This special ceremony, led by the Order of Malta, recognises the exceptional support and contribution of our employees to our residents, and to the Trust. This year, 10 employees
received Bronze Medals of Merit, and you can find out more about the service on page 7.
These are just a small number of highlights amongst many great things that are happening all of the time at the Trust. Others include the skilled work of our care leaders on pages 14 and 15, and our outstanding volunteers on page 6, some of whom were the first-ever to be presented with Service Medals by the Order of St John. Everyone is also excited about the introduction of eCare into our services. The rollout programme is in full swing, and it is already making a difference for our early adopters and pilot homes.
The Trust is in great shape, we are focussed on the future, and as committed as ever to all those who live with us and work with us. Heartfelt thanks as ever.
Dan Hayes Chief Executive
Trust in Bloom 2023 overall winner, Gregory House
What’s happening across The Orders of St John Care Trust
eCare for all homes and schemes by April 2024
Electronic care records (eCare) are being adopted by OSJCT care homes and extra care housing schemes during 2023 and the early part of 2024. Twenty-five homes and schemes were already using eCare by early October, with more going live soon.
Services which are using eCare, instead of paper care records, are seeing many positive benefits such as real-time oversight of care applied, and greater confidence in night security and resident checks. Relatives of our residents have also shared positive comments and enthusiasm for this new system after learning about it from team members.
Owen, Care Leader at Watersmead, who started using eCare in June, said:
“The whole team is growing in confidence every day and we are finding that carers have a lot more time to spend with our residents, to give them more quality time and quality care.
“Overall, this has been a really big, positive change for the home and a positive step for the Trust as we move forward with the times, and step into the future of care.”
Claire Glasby, Transformation Project Manager, said: “The rollout of eCare across the Trust is going well. Homes that are now using the new system can buddy up and help those homes preparing to transition to eCare. We can already see great benefits including better oversight of the excellent care that our teams provide.”
Hartsholme House team members ready for their eCare launch day
Ridgeway House, Royal Wootton Bassett
Employees attend special House of Lords reception
Research findings from a study into ways to support people living with dementia in extra care housing, in which OSJCT participated, have been launched at a House of Lords reception.
The event was hosted by Lord Best and attendees included Louise Axtell, Private Collection Director and Natalie Lee, Domiciliary Care Manager.
OSJCT offers a warm welcome to international nurses and
carers
A skilled, diverse, and valued workforce is essential in responding to the individual needs of residents and to providing the loving, highquality care the Trust prides itself on.
In the past 15 months, OSJCT has made a significant investment in international recruitment, with 94 nurses and carers from overseas now working in our homes, and more due to arrive in the very near future. In addition, in the past year, 141
The Supporting People Living with Dementia in Extra Care Housing (DemECH) project was an 18-month study funded by the NIHR School for Social Care Research and led by the University of Worcester’s Association for Dementia Studies to explore how extra care housing can help people to live well with dementia.
It investigated the advantages and disadvantages of three different extra care housing models.
Three key insight booklets were published to guide future extra care housing developments, alongside video and audio diaries sharing direct experience of people living with dementia and their experience of extra care housing.
Top 20 Care Home Group Award 2023
colleagues originally from overseas and who were already working in the UK, have been offered sponsorship to provide stability and security for both the Trust and those individuals. In total, the Trust currently employs 250 sponsored employees.
Holly Kent, Recruitment Lead explained: “There is a national shortage of nurses and carers in health and social care, so international recruitment helps us support our residents by recruiting individuals who are passionate and committed to providing care that is focused on individuals’ needs, and are looking to progress their careers in the UK.”
Holly continued: “International employees move across the world to work for us, so we are invested in their wellbeing from the very start. We work closely with a specialist international recruitment agency, meeting each candidate virtually and considering their requirements and preferences in placing them in a role. We offer successful recruits an induction and training programme relevant to their role, and both the Trust’s project team and our agency provide ongoing care and support.”
The Trust has received a ‘Top 20 Care Home Group’ Award in the Large Care Home Group category of Carehome.co.uk’s 2023 Awards. The Award is based on reviews by those who live in one of the Trust’s 61 care homes, and their relatives. OSJCT has over 3,000 reviews on the website and an average score of 9.6 out of 10,* and is among the thousands of providers which were in the running for an Award.
Dan Hayes, Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to be recognised as a Top 20 Care provider in the UK. I’m incredibly proud of everyoneour care teams, office staff and volunteers - who all contribute to our mission to deliver loving care, and create safe, welcoming, and friendly homes for all those who have chosen to entrust their care to OSJCT.”
*September 2023
To
www.osjct.co.uk/news
Carer Febbie James, who joined OSJCT from Zimbabwe, recently celebrated her birthday at Florence Court in Trowbridge
Making a difference
The Orders of St John Care Trust is a modern charity, but our heritage of care goes back nearly 1,000 years to when the Knights of Malta and Knights of St John provided medical care for pilgrims of any faith or origin.
To this day, we are proud of our carers, support teams and volunteers who do all they can to make residents’ lives a little bit easier, happier and healthier. Their outstanding contribution is recognised with special awards presented by the Order of Malta and the Order of St John.
Service Medal of the Order of St John awarded to OSJCT volunteers for the first time
National Volunteers’ Week, which takes place in June, is the UK’s biggest annual celebration of volunteering, recognising the contribution of over 20 million people who volunteer in their communities across the UK. It’s an important date in the OSJCT diary because it gives the whole organisation the opportunity to thank our 500+ volunteers, for the huge difference they make to the lives of our residents.
This year OSJCT celebrated volunteers in style, by hosting regional volunteer appreciation events, where volunteers in each of our counties came together to share afternoon tea, get to know each other and share their personal volunteering stories.
They were particularly special events this year, in part because it was the first time that people could come together in this way since the pandemic, but also because it was
the first time long service volunteers were presented with a prestigious Service Medal of the Order of St John.
The medal is awarded to recognise long service, over 10 years, by the Order of St John, one of our sponsoring orders. This has been a long tradition for volunteers in St John Ambulance, and in recognition of our affiliation, and the importance that our volunteers also have within our organisation, this will now be presented annually to our long serving volunteers.
Medals were awarded to over 20 volunteers, who, combined, have given over 300 years of service! Judy Wright, OSJCT Trustee for Wiltshire County, who herself has volunteered for the Order of St John for over 20 years, presented the awards at a special event in Wiltshire.
Judy said: “The Order of St John, better known to you as St John Ambulance, has always relied on volunteers to deliver its charitable mission. Volunteers also play an important role in OSJCT, giving our residents enjoyment, stimulation,
Volunteers Sarah Cornell and Daphne Smith
Volunteer Sandra Hough
a listening ear, and a window on the outside world, amongst many other benefits. As a volunteer myself, I was delighted to be invited to the Volunteer Recognition event in Wiltshire to present to our long serving volunteers the Service Medal of the Order of St John, which recognises their contribution to the Trust over many years.”
Catherine Semmence, Head of Volunteering, said:
“Volunteer recipients were delighted to be presented with the prestigious Service Medal of the Order of St John. All our volunteers are special people, but to have dedicated so many years to their volunteering certainly deserves an extra special thank you!”
“The events were enjoyed by everyone, it was lovely to be able to come together after such a long time. I particularly enjoyed watching new connections being made and hearing volunteers exchanging stories on the different things they do to engage and support our residents, as well as sharing ideas for what they could try.”
Volunteers unable to make one of the regional events were presented with their award in small ceremonies involving residents, who were able to also share their personal thanks.
Order of Malta medals for 10 OSJCT employees
The Order of Malta has awarded Bronze Medals of Merit to 10 OSJCT employees. These medals recognise their exemplary service to social care. Five employees attended a St John’s Day mass and investiture at the Brompton Oratory in London on Friday 23 June where they received their Bronze Medal of Merit from H.E. The Grand Prior of England Fra’ Max Rumney and H.E. The President of the British Association of the Order of Malta, Lady Celestria Hales.
Many of the medallists have worked for OSJCT for over 10 years and were recognised for their exceptional support and contribution to the Trust and its residents. Medallists attended the ceremony with a guest, and also witnessed the investiture of honours on Order of Malta members and volunteers.
“I feel very privileged to have received this Medal. But I am even more
The OSJCT employees who received their medals at the St John’s Day service were:
Beverley Cottam, Senior Carer at Hartsholme House, Lincoln
Nichola (Nic) Grainger, Quality Improvement Lead, Care Quality Team
Sally Hibberd-Burns, Carer at Spencer Court, Woodstock
Ann-Marie Palmer, Finance Support Administrator, Central Support Services
Sally Reynolds, Chef at Watersmead, Westbury
honoured to have worked with some amazing people over the years, and even more happy that I could care for our wonderful residents in our homes along the way. All the people I’ve met whilst working at OSJCT have given me so much and I am so thankful that I do what I do.” Nic Grainger, Quality Improvement Lead
“I am really honoured to receive this medal. I was very glad that I attended the ceremony at the Brompton Oratory, it was a really lovely experience. Working at Watersmead for the last 15 years has been an absolute pleasure. Thanks to the staff and residents alike, the home has a lovely family atmosphere. I want to credit everyone I work with, as I wouldn’t be receiving this award without their encouragement and support.” Sally Reynolds, Chef, Watersmead
“I was surprised and overwhelmed to be awarded the medal, for a job that I really love doing. I’m honoured to receive this award and thankful for the wonderful team that I work with at Spencer Court. This medal is also for them.” Sally Hibberd-Burns, Carer, Spencer Court.
Other 2023 OSJCT medallists are:
Marie Gormley, Care Leader at Willowcroft, Salisbury
Helen Butler, Head Housekeeper at Meadowcroft, Thame
Denise Parker, Care Leader at Paternoster House, Cirencester
Catherine Meanwell, Housekeeper at Gregory House, Grantham
Diane Perry, Senior Care Leader at Millbrook Lodge, Brockworth
Order of Malta medallists pictured front row, from second left Sally Reynolds, Sally Hibberd-Burns, Ann-Marie Palmer, Beverley Cottam and second row, third from right, Nic Grainger. Medallists were accompanied by their guests, OSJCT managers, and OSJCT Trustees and members of the Order Mark Everall (Chair of Trustees), Graham Hutton and Mark Brenninkmeyer
Volunteer Charlie Mondahl with Trustee Judy Wright
Trust in Bloom
The Trust’s annual Trust in Bloom competition showcases and recognises the efforts of residents, team members and volunteers who work together throughout the year to plan and nurture their garden areas.
After stiff competition from 43 homes which entered this year’s event, Gregory House was awarded the title of overall winner of Trust in Bloom 2023. Homes in the competition were visited by senior managers who chose category and overall winners.
The competition provides a focus for homes to get creative, collaborate with the local community and bring to life residents’ ideas. For 2023, homes were invited to incorporate the theme of the Coronation Year into their garden plans. Many included creative ideas, props, and red, white, and blue flowers in their displays.
Dan Hayes, Chief Executive, said: “One of my favourite activities of the year is visiting the Trust in Bloom finalists’ gardens to determine the overall winner. I have been immensely impressed with the standard and commitment shown by our Trust in Bloom finalists this year.
“Each divisional winner achieved their beautiful grounds through resident involvement, volunteers giving up their time, and the families of our colleagues and residents getting involved, to create wonderful outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed all year round.”
Congratulations to Gregory House in Grantham, overall winner of Trust in Bloom 2023
Gregory House prides itself on community engagement. The home received plant donations from Ropsley Market Garden and support from students at Grantham College who came to work in the gardens for a day.
Residents were involved in many aspects of the garden including making signage and a windmill. The garden has different zones including a sensory area, zen garden, country garden and a rockery.
The courtyard hosts a wildlife garden which has hedgehog boxes, bug homes, space for making compost, a small pond and bird boxes.
Dan said: “To have been so ambitious and to have achieved such a stunning outcome against every category is superb. The pure ambition of this project, and the fact that it delivered hugely, was a credit to the whole team, and the supporting community.”
Grantham and Stamford MP Gareth Davies wrote to congratulate Gregory House on their win
Divisional winners for 2023
Goodson Lodge
In Trowbridge, Overall Grounds winner among Private Collection homes.
Dan said:
“The all-inclusive nature of this home, and the respect and friendship shown between colleagues must make it a wonderful environment for our residents.”
Windsor Street Care Centre
In Cheltenham, Overall Grounds winner within the South Division.
Dan said:
“The team has been ingenious in the way that they have recycled, used cheap and effective ideas, and undertaken their own works to build things like planters. Examples included the Ukraine memorial, children’s play area, and the excellent Coronation theme.”
Paternoster House
In Cirencester, Overall Grounds winner within the Central Division.
Dan said:
“The small team of volunteers is a driving force at this home. The various areas of the gardens are quite different in nature and use. The scale of the vegetable garden and the amount of food it provides for the kitchen is incredible.”
Admiral Nurses
Improving life for people with dementia
OSJCT is one of only nine care providers in the country to employ a team of Admiral Nurses, dementia specialist nurses supported by the charity Dementia UK.
The Trust’s award-winning team of Admiral Nurses provides lifechanging support for families affected by all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
The highly trained team undertakes assessments to ensure we meet the needs of residents living with dementia and their families and friends. They also provide emotional support, practical advice, information, and skills to help families and friends of residents living with dementia understand the disease and support their loved one.
As part of Dementia Awareness Week, we released a new film, filmed at Edwardstow Court in Stow-on-
the-Wold in Gloucestershire and featuring our Admiral Nurse Rachel Stirton, Thelma and Janet, the daughter of another resident.
In the short film, Rachel summarises the role of Admiral Nurses:
“We work with colleagues in our homes to meet the needs of our residents. We also support families and friends of our residents living with dementia. Being able to be a small part of someone’s care journey, and helping them to live with dementia, is an absolute privilege. I feel very lucky to be an Admiral Nurse at The Orders of St John Care Trust.”
Rachel Stirton Admiral Nurse
Admiral Nurse Rachel Stirton and Thelma
Janet, whose mother has dementia and is cared for by the team at Edwardstow Court, said: “Everybody has been so kind; kind to us, as well as kind to my Mum, which is really important.”
Thelma said:
“ The Admiral Nurses lift you up and your family know that you’re safe, so I feel secure.”
The Trust’s Admiral Nurses also provide expert guidance and support to our care teams, and develop and lead our dementia training, which is endorsed by Dementia UK. Angie Williams, Lead
Admiral Nurse at OSJCT explained: “We have highly skilled employees across the organisation who work closely with the Admiral Nurses to develop their knowledge and keep up to date with best practice in dementia care. This leads to improved wellbeing and quality of life for residents living in our care services, which is what we aim for with all our residents, employees, and families.”
Rachel added: “We will role-model approaches and provide direct support to teams. If they have any concerns with regard to a particular resident, we can support them in care planning to meet that resident’s needs.”
Kim Maunoury, Care Leader at Edwardstow Court, shared her
How Admiral Nurses can help
Admiral Nurses are qualified nurses with a professional specialism in dementia.
Their extensive clinical knowledge and experience means they can:
• offer additional expertise, care, and support such as offering advice on medication, symptoms, and therapeutic interventions
• help people to understand the disease
• provide communication skills and techniques to help families and friends stay connected with their loved one
• prevent and manage signs of fear or distress
• signpost to other services and organisations that also provide support
• create a resident’s LifeStory.
To get support email: admiralnurseteam@osjct.co.uk.
experience of working with the Admiral Nurses: “They are very supportive, and if we need them we are able to ring them. They come into the home, and they sit down and give you advice on what you should do, or who else you can go to.”
Admiral Nurses were named by the family of Joseph Levy CBE BEM, who founded Dementia UK. Joseph had vascular dementia and was known affectionately as ‘Admiral Joe’ because of his love of sailing.
Angie Williams, Lead Admiral Nurse concluded:
“As the Trust’s Lead Admiral Nurse, I am proud to lead a team of such dedicated nurses who always put the residents and their families at the forefront of what they do.” Watch the film about our Admiral Nurses on our YouTube channel: Or visit
Janet, resident’s daughter
Your stories
Highlights and events from our homes and extra care housing schemes
Goodson Lodge hosts first-ever Cat Café morning
Many residents and team members at Goodson Lodge in Trowbridge are enthusiastic cat fans, so the home organised their first Cat Café morning for International Cat Day on 8 August. Three kittens, and two Siamese cats – Charlie and Oliver, belonging to Deborah, the daughter of the home’s biggest cat fan Derek, came to the home for petting and cuddles from residents.
Resident Pauline said: “It was so lovely to cuddle a cat that was so small.” Jean commented: “The cat I had was very content on the sofa next to me,” and Judy explained: “Holding the cat was marvellous! It reminded me of having cats in the past.”
Cats hold special associations for resident Derek, who used
to pet sit with his late wife Glenda (pictured right), when their daughter Deborah was away on business trips. Since Derek moved into the home the cats, who are lead trained, have been regular visitors. Activities Coordinator Alex Damon said: “Derek especially looks forward to these visits. Charlie and Oliver are lead trained and they seem to know their way around the home very well.”
These family pets were a great comfort to the family when Glenda, who also stayed at Goodson Lodge, was suffering from the late stages of Alzheimer’s. Deborah explained: “It was always our tales of the cats that made mum laugh. As a family we will always be grateful that mum’s wish to have her cats with her in her room in her last days was granted. These cats are truly a calming influence, funny and so much part of our lives. They love coming into the care home.”
Ridgeway team skydive for residents’ fundraiser
Research has found that interacting with animals decreases levels of
cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lowers blood pressure. Other studies have found that animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost mood.*
Dementia UK also has several case studies which demonstrate how pets can help reduce anxiety, improve mood and encourage communication and engagement in people with dementia.^
* The Power of Pets – NIH News in Health
^ Animals and dementia – Dementia UK
Team members from Ridgeway House in Royal Wootton Bassett took a leap of faith, in a sponsored skydive to raise money for their residents’ amenity fund. The jump took place above Old Sarum Airfield, just north of Salisbury.
Home Manager Hannah Mason, and Carer Jessica Tanner, faced a sixty second freefall, jumping from 15,000ft over the beautiful Wiltshire countryside. Area Operations Manager Andy Wood, Night Carer Paula Restall, and Bank Carer Helen Luker, all jumped from 10,000ft. Between them,
they have raised over £2,000, which residents at the care home will get to choose how they spend.
This was Hannah’s third skydive, though her first from the highest altitude in the UK. She said: “The whole experience was amazing! I’ve done it before, but this time was special because I was sharing the experience with my colleagues.
“We’ve raised over £2,000 already which will allow us to give our residents some really wonderful experiences, on solid ground.”
Monkscroft resident Judith triggers terrarium trend in local community
Owning and caring for houseplants is a popular hobby. But this passion isn’t just for millennial plant parents and plantfluencers who are part of #PlantTok, a growing community on social media platform TikTok. Judith Green, a resident at Monkscroft Care Centre in Cheltenham, has triggered the trend in the local community.
When Judith moved to Monkscroft, she missed her garden and allotment and saw an opportunity to influence the development of the home’s expansive gardens. Judith initiated No Mow May at the home and also put Activities Co-ordinator Sarah Davis in touch with Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust (GWT) to explore more ways for the home to help nature, as well as bring nature into the home.
One of the ideas for adding a touch of nature to the home was a community workshop to create terrariums. The benefits of plants
Ermine House hosts church confirmation
June and Gordon, residents at Ermine House in Lincoln, came together with other residents, the care team and local clergy to mark their confirmation during a special Church of England service conducted in the home.
Both June and Gordon put on their Sunday best and along with family and friends, joined Assistant Bishop of Lincoln The Right Reverend Dr Nigel Peyton and Parish Priest Reverend Rachel Heskins of St John
and nature to mental and physical wellbeing are well-documented, but the small scale of tiny terrariums means they can be easily moved from place to place in the care home, and they require little maintenance.
Frances Halstead, Nextdoor Nature Officer at GWT, led the workshop as part of GWT’s Nextdoor Nature initiative. The project aims to reach out to people who want to be more connected to nature, helping to create nature-filled spaces where they live. Frances commented: “It’s been wonderful to hear the buzz of chat and see the enthusiasm and excitement this workshop has generated.”
The Baptist Parish Church, in the home’s blue lounge for the service. The ceremony, which the home organised in response to June and Gordon’s wishes, was a beautiful, spiritual, and friendly service helped along by Bishop Nigel’s and Reverend Rachel’s friendly, caring and down-to-earth natures.
Gordon and June were presented with lit candles representing the light of God and a certificate of confirmation. Volunteer Sue also presented each of them with a bouquet of flowers, and Carer and part-time Activities Co-ordinator Jo presented them with a card from the care home.
Sue and fellow volunteer Maureen prepared a special buffet for the occasion which included shortbread dominoes made especially for Gordon, who is a member of the home’s dominoes club.
Sister homes visit Millets Farm for a day out
Residents from Oxfordshire care homes The Meadows and Stirlings enjoyed a trip to Millets Farm Centre in Abingdon, where they had a lot of fun meeting each other, seeing all the animals on show and visiting the fairground stands. The group also enjoyed hot drinks and biscuits in the café.
Lisa Duffy, Home Manager at The Meadows said: “We think it’s important to encourage our residents to socialise and make friends. We want to promote communities creating environments in which relationships can flourish.”
Betty, from Stirlings, was delighted to win a soft toy dog at the hook-aduck stand. She later ran a ‘Guess the dog’s name’ stall at the home’s summer fair and donated the proceeds to Stirlings’ minibus fund. The winning name was Bonzo.
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Meet some of our team
In this feature we put the spotlight on a Head of Care and a Deputy Manager, vital roles which lead care teams in OSJCT homes.
They oversee care plans and care rotas and monitor and audit the care that is offered in our homes. These roles ensure that the best quality care is delivered every day. Happy and supported care teams are the bedrock of our care homes, as they are the familiar, friendly faces our residents see each day.
Luan credits her nan as the inspiration behind her career in care
Luan Mitchell is Head of Care at Seymour House, near Chippenham. Luan’s first role at OSJCT was as Housekeeper but she became a Carer to spend more time with residents, and quickly progressed to Care Leader.
Luan was inspired to work in care by her nan Mary, who had been a Care Leader at Burnham House, a care home run by OSJCT in Malmesbury before Athelstan House was opened. Later in her life, Mary was cared for herself at Athelstan House for four years. Luan started working here, before moving to Seymour House.
any changes and support our care teams in their care planning.”
Luan has experience in homes and households which offer all types of care: residential care, nursing care and support for residents living with dementia. She said:
“This lady was reluctant to allow non-family members to support her with personal care, but she would allow me to help her. This gave her daughter and granddaughter such relief. And I became very close to that family.”
Spending time with residents and overseeing their care are key elements of the Head of Care role. Luan explained: “Essentially, I oversee and audit the care provided by our care teams, I review and assist with care planning, and ensure that our teams are confident in what they are doing.
“I aim to spend at least 30 minutes each day speaking to residents, getting to know new arrivals and checking-in on those who have been with us for some time. It’s something I really enjoy. It also helps me to keep on top of care plans, spot
“This experience is invaluable for understanding the different needs, and symptoms of changes, which residents can show.”
As Head of Care, Luan assesses residents before they move into
Luan, Head of Care at Seymour House
Luan’s nan
Hayley, Deputy Manager at Millbrook Lodge
Hayley thrives in a role that provides different challenges every day
Hayley Taylor is the Deputy Manager at Millbrook Lodge, an 80 room home in Brockworth near Gloucester. Hayley worked as a Carer and Care Leader before becoming the Deputy Manager at Millbrook Lodge in 2017.
Within the management team at Millbrook, Hayley’s skills complement those of Becky, the home’s Senior Nurse and clinical lead, and Robin, Home Manager, who is a registered mental health nurse.
Seymour House. This can include understanding whether they have the capacity to make decisions for themselves. If needed, she will work with families when they need to make a Deprivation of Liberty (DoLs) application. This is an important step if a resident needs to have decisions about their care made by a family member or other trusted adult. This can be a difficult and sensitive time for residents and their relatives, with many changes taking place during the move into a care home, but Luan’s calm expertise is available to everyone involved to help these transitions to go smoothly.
With personal experience of her nan moving into an OSJCT care home, Luan empathises with relatives. She was chosen to be the preferred carer by a resident who was living with advanced dementia. Luan said:
“This lady was reluctant to allow non-family members to support her with personal care, but she would allow me to help her. This gave her daughter and granddaughter such relief. And I became very close to that family.”
Hayley is responsible for the smooth running of the care team at Millbrook, which comprises around 80 care staff. She starts most days checking that staff shifts are covered and organising cover if anyone is unwell. Hayley then walks around the home to speak to residents before taking on tasks for that day. Each day is different and can involve home or Trust-wide meetings, care plan audits, time with relatives of residents, assessments for new residents, and many other unexpected things which can crop up.
“It’s a role where flexibility helps,” said Hayley. “It’s a very busy home, so I’m often meeting new residents, helping them to settle in and getting to know their characters and their needs.
“It’s important that we have a varied workforce with different expertise to draw on. I’m keen that all my team members are adaptable and open minded.
“The team at Millbrook Lodge is very good. Hearing the staff enjoying some banter with residents and laughter across the home is very rewarding.
“We take our jobs very seriously but hearing laughter makes it feel like the family home we all want it to be.
“At Millbrook Lodge we encourage our residents to get out of their rooms and make new friends. They can sit in the garden, spend time in our lounges or take part in our activities programme. It’s miles away from how care homes used to be 40-50 years ago, but sometimes I think people still have those misconceptions.”
Hayley didn’t set out to work in care. At 18 she took on a job in a local care home without much thought for the future and she is still loving her career 20 years later.
“We take our jobs very seriously but hearing laughter makes it feel like the family home we all want it to be.”
Hayley with Millbrook Lodge’s Activities Co-ordinators, Jayne and Shirley
IN THE PRESS
Every week residents, tenants, employees and volunteers in our homes and extra care housing schemes achieve and celebrate happy milestones. Here are just a handful of those stories which make the headlines. Read more stories at osjct.co.uk/news
Monkscroft Care Centre shares tips with ITV news viewers for keeping cool in hot weather
Several residents and Doreen Paisley, Home Manager at Monkscroft Care Centre in Cheltenham, were interviewed for an item on ITV West Country news
ahead of a forthcoming heatwave alert in early June. Doreen spoke about the importance of hydration, keeping curtains closed and turning on fans to help everyone keep cool on days with high temperatures.
ITV Reporter Ken Goodwin spent time outside in the shade asking residents about their memories and stories from previous hot summers. Judith Green, a Monkscroft resident, shared her top tip for hot weather - she keeps a stack of damp flannels nearby and uses them to cool her face and neck.
Cirencester business volunteers at Paternoster House on Make a Difference Day
Volunteers from Havas CX helia headquarters in Cirencester took part in July’s Make a Difference Day. Company employees were split into several teams to help local organisations, one of which went to Paternoster House to transform its old shed into a beautiful Alice in Wonderlandthemed summer house.
Havas CX helia Managing Director David MacMillan said: “As a company, we really care about our impact on the people, the
community, and the world around us. So rather than just having a summer party, we wanted to do something more.
“Cirencester has been our home for over 50 years. So, it’s an absolute privilege to see our volunteering put smiles on the faces of so many who share it with us.”
Local GP tackles 15km swim to raise funds for residents
Residents and team members at Stirlings care home in Wantage, are close to achieving their fundraising goal for a new minibus, thanks to the support of local GP Dr Nicky Jacobsen.
Dr Jacobsen and five other swimmers took part in a fundraising relay challenge from Rampion Wind Farm to Shoreham Beach, a distance of approximately 15km. She said: “Last year I took on the Bantham Swoosh swim with District Nurse Gill, to raise money for the minibus fund as we were aware that this was something that was really needed to help residents get out and about. This year I’ve stepped up to a bigger challenge of swimming 15km as part of a relay team!”
The GP visits the care home every Thursday to see residents. Home Manager Rebecca Mitchell said: “Nicky is an integral part of our home. She is a wonderful Doctor and has a great relationship with both residents and the team. It’s nice that she’s so actively involved, and understands the importance a minibus will have in helping our residents to get out more. I take my hat off to her for undertaking this swimming challenge on our behalf!”
Residents and carers have fun in Coronation video chain
Residents and carers took part in a fun video chain to wish His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort well, ahead of the Coronation.
The video shows residents and carers trying on crowns they handcrafted themselves for the historic occasion and passing them on in a chain.
Beata Beevor, Activities Coordinator at Windsor Street Care Centre in Cheltenham, said: “The Coronation was a rare and exciting moment in history, which our residents were keen to witness and take part in. So, as the preparations and decorations were coming together for the Coronation weekend, many of our residents and colleagues enthusiastically
Boultham Park House celebrates 60-year anniversary with a fundraising walk
Team members from Boultham Park House, Lincoln, completed a 34km fundraising walk to celebrate 60 years since the care home opened and raised over £1,000 for their residents’ amenities fund.
The 34km distance was chosen to match the 34 bedrooms at the care home. Joanne Johnson, Home Manager, said: “I am incredibly proud of the team at Boultham Park House. Their spirit never dampened, unlike the weather during the walk. The determination shown by everyone to complete the 34km to raise money for the residents’ fund was admirable. Thank you to all who donated.”
Kate Banks, Activities Co-ordinator, who took part in the walk said: “We
took part in a special video message to The King.”
The King’s Private Secretary responded on behalf of His Majesty with a letter of thanks to residents and teams.
OSJCT has a special link with King Charles III. As reigning monarch, The King is the Sovereign Head of one of the charity’s two historic sponsoring orders, the Order of St John.
Brenda’s 42 years of dedication to older people’s care and wellbeing
Brenda Broadberry, Senior Carer at Foxby Court in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, has worked in care for over 42 years. She joined Lincolnshire Council home Oakdene House in 1980, and then joined Foxby Court when it opened in 1982. Foxby Court has been run by OSJCT since 1992.
all knew 34km was going to be tough but knowing what we were doing is for our residents made it all worthwhile. Our residents are like family, and we wanted to ensure that our hard work paid off. The walk was a real challenge in very wet conditions; however, every ache and pain has been truly worthwhile with every penny we have raised for our residents.”
Brenda became a Carer after leaving college, having completed a Home Management and Family Care course. She explained: “I wanted to look after the elderly, to make their last years comfortable and enjoyable. I’ve had the privilege to do that for hundreds of residents over the years. Through all this time I’ve found my job fulfilling and worthwhile, and I’ve had a great deal of fun along the way.”
“I’ve worked with many wonderful people who have become lifelong friends and met lovely families whilst caring for their loved ones.”
Brenda especially enjoys residents’ outings such as trips to the seaside, to cafés, to the Lincolnshire Show and to see Bransby Horses. The home regularly organises entertainment with local singers and Brenda loves to see the joy these events inspire in residents.
Brenda, centre
Wellford Gardens
We’re looking forward to opening our doors to welcome residents to Wellford Gardens
The marketing suite at Wellford Gardens – our newest home, in Wheatley, Oxfordshire –will be open from November, with our first residents able to move in, in the coming months. Constructionand decorating work are progressing well, and the home is really taking shape.
Each of the 65 luxurious bedrooms has an en-suite wet room and many also have private patios overlooking the dementia-friendly landscaping. The natural world is important to so many people and Wellford Gardens’ residents will be able to make the most of this lovely location, with lots of accessible outside space and views over Wheatley from an elevated position.
Wellford Gardens is being built to offer a stylish, modern, and luxurious home, providing residential and dementia care for permanent residents, as well as respite breaks to support families caring for a loved one at home. They will be supported by dedicated care and hospitality teams, and some of the most innovative technologies available in the sector. One such example is an acoustic monitoring system being fitted into all bedrooms to
alert our night carers when help is needed and minimise interruption for residents sleeping soundly.
There are numerous obvious benefits to our health from getting a good night’s sleep, not least feeling less tired during the day. Poor sleep can lead to more chance of accidents and falls, and the older we get, there is an increased risk of complications with that. The acoustic monitoring system will alert our carers when help is required, by picking up calls or unexpected noises from a bedroom. It means that our night care teams can focus their attention on those who need their support and allow others to sleep undisturbed without periodic checks.
There will be a varied activities programme, from artistic endeavours to more active pursuits, entertainers coming into the home, and residents taking day trips out and about. Residents will be able to enjoy a
range of facilities, including a private dining room, hair salon and nail bar, therapy room, activities room, gym, cinema room, and a café bar.
Residents will be free to live their lives as they choose and encouraged to add their own special touches to their personal space – that’s what makes it home.
Wellford Gardens is a significant new development for The Orders of St John Care Trust, and will be the Trust’s first home with an all-inclusive offer. It is located just off the A40 in Wheatley and easily accessible from Oxford, surrounding villages, and further afield.
If you would like to be part of our team in this exciting new venture, please contact Katie-Jane at katie.price@osjct.co.uk , or if you would like to enquire about becoming a resident with us, please call our Customer Services team on 01522 405 782.
Where we are
Lincolnshire & Suffolk
Wiltshire & West
What families say about us
We aim to provide the highest standard of loving care for all of our residents and tenants. Don’t just take our word for it, here are some recent reviews about The Orders of St John Care Trust taken from the independent consumer website carehome.co.uk.
9.7 review score
“The staff are dedicated, hardworking, well trained and kind –more like old friends than just care workers. The accommodation is excellent, roomy, cheerful, and comfortable. The food is well-chosen, varied, well cooked and plentiful. Visitors are encouraged and made welcome – a home from home.”
JD, resident’s husband, Apple Trees
9.5 review score
“My mum has received exceptional care since coming to the home in 2018 and management has played a key role in ensuring her needs and continuity of care are met to the highest standard. My mum feels safe, valued, and loved and is treated with dignity and respect. She adores all of the staff, doctors, carers, receptionists, admin team, cleaners and carers and now considers them as friends.”
AB, resident’s son, Goodson Lodge Care Centre
*Review scores correct at time of print
10 review score
“As a family, we have been impressed and so grateful for the care and love which has been shown to our mother. Staff have been so kind to her and to us as a family. They have been thoughtful and considerate and we are happy to have chosen Monkscroft for her care.”
RH, resident’s relative, Monkscroft Care Centre
9.6 review score
“All staff that I had the pleasure to meet were friendly and caring and had my father’s interest at the heart of what they do. My father has told me he is treated like a king, what more could you ask for?”
SR, resident’s daughter, Isis House
9.8 review score
“My first impressions were very good, seeing a good number of carers, all of whom were local people and had worked there for a long time. The level of care that my wife received was amazing. She was welcomed, settled in and there was much attention to detail in ensuring she was comfortable and content. As well as looking after my wife, I felt there was much care for me as well.”
GA, resident’s husband, Westgate House
9.7 review score
“A huge thank you to the managerial team and carers for putting on an amazing Afternoon Tea Party for residents and families. It was heartwarming to see the team dancing and singing with the residents and families too. Absolutely outstanding care and attention.”
JS, resident’s daughter, Langford View
If you or your loved one lives in one of our homes or schemes and you would like to share your experience, submit a review at:
www.carehome.co.uk