Matron working to make a difference
Hillary Redcliffe of Victoria Park, now matron at Huis John Vorster, never knew the elderly home existed until someone suggested she apply for the job two years ago.
Redcliffe who had worked for the South African Police Service, did job shadowing under then matron Theresa Lotti before taking over the position.
She said at first it felt overwhelming as the position was huge, but in a short time she found the board very supportive and trusting of her, which she was grateful for.
John Vorster is a large facility with 86 residents to feed, 39 staff members and private rentals in the cottages at the back where five flats are situated, all of whom come under Redcliffe’s care.
Redcliffe firmly believes that “unity is strength” and shows by example how to help the staff. She encourages them not to criticize each other and to help where they can, herself included.
Attitudes among the staff and the residents are changing for the good and there is a warm friendly feeling as you walk through the home, with people exsdchanging greetings.
Seeing all the improvements that have been made to lighten and brighten up the rooms in the frail care section so far, shows a real sense of caring for the residents. Well done to the members of the Westbourne and Weshof community and others in the wider areas of Komani.
The Chris Hani Retired Nurses Association came to offer help to the staff and are currently conducting training sessions on Monday and Tuesday mornings to the care givers and the household staff.
Already, after just the first session, those who have attended the teachings have been encouraged and uplifted and are feeling cared for. The Retired Nurses really are putting into action all that they have talked about. In the future they are planning refresher courses, teaching and showing the care givers how to do all sorts of different things like bed bathing and oral hygiene for the patients.
Looking back, Redcliffe, who is a real people’s person, says she has learnt a lot. After Covid, people seemed to open their hearts, and their hands to help improve things at John Vorster and she is encouraged by it.
Long periods of loadshedding is a big challenge. With trying to keep meat that has been kindly donated frozen, Redcliffe has built good relations with people willing to help with freezer space.
Of course, facilities like Huis John Vorster have needs. They are really desperate for an industrial washing machine. Water storage tanks would also be of help when water is scarce.
Redcliffe said there were a growing number of enquiries about accommodation at the facility. Rooms that have been used for storage purposes are now being converted into bedrooms and she would dearly love steel containers to use as store rooms for wheelchairs and nursing equipment.
Sadly, some families never come to visit their relatives and it is up to the home to buy toiletries, clothing and other items. It has been very helpful when people in the wider community hear of these needs and donate them.