LOCAL HEROES – CARE HOME STAFF HONOURED FOR THEIR WORK IN 2020

Staff at two specialist nursing homes in Hampshire have been praised for their compassion and commitment in industry awards which celebrate excellence in care homes across the UK

T he teams at South Africa Lodge in Waterlooville and Kitnocks House in Curdridge were ‘highly commended’ in the ‘Specialist Care’ category of the annual Care Home Awards. Cornerstone’s 240 staff care for people with challenging behaviours associated with complex neurological and mental health needs. While the Care Home Awards ceremony couldn’t be held as normal because of coronavirus restrictions, the homes’ owners, Cornerstone Healthcare, treated 20 staff to a special party in recognition of their efforts. Those who couldn’t make it were able to enjoy the presentations via a live stream.

“We are so excited to be mentioned in these awards,” said CEO, Johann van Zyl. Every member of our staff has a role to play in the care of our residents, from home managers to housekeepers, and this is recognition of their creativity, their hard work and commitment to those who need them most.”

Unique nursing care

Cornerstone Healthcare was recognised as it is the only operator in the south east of England offering nursing care for people with challenging behaviours as a result of neurological or mental health needs. Judges commended the homes’ dignified, lifelong care for residents in settings that understand and manage their needs. They also noted the group’s 360 degree approach to care. “We take this approach,” explained Johann, “because these are people’s homes, and as it would be in a domestic setting, understanding and responding to a person’s needs is something a range of family members and friends would do. “Many people who come to live with us have had numerous unsuccessful placements in other nursing homes, where staff don’t have the training ours do,” said Johann. “When residents move into one of our homes, they invariably stay with us for the rest of their lives. Our tailored, personalised care means we see considerable improvements in their health, behaviour, ability and ultimately, their happiness.”

Life-changing innovation

The Care Home Awards judges also ‘highly commended’ the group’s Quality Audit Lead, Aaron Ballinger, for his training initiative. The ‘In My Shoes’ kit, which Aaron compiled himself for just £60, is designed to help staff develop empathy with residents with dementia. Cornerstone Healthcare is also shortlisted in the ‘Specialist Care’ categor y in the Laing Buisson Awards , as well as being finalists in the ‘Specialist Care’ and ‘Complex Care’ categories of the 2020 Health Investor Awards.

“2020 has been a challenging year for staff because of the effects of the global pandemic so to win this award would be a huge boost for them.” said Johann.

Support for staff

Bonuses, on site laundry and fun pop up food events have all been organised. Johann added: “We really value what they do and we want them to know that.”