Issue 202 23.10.24
The weekly online newsletter for the care sector
Group receives Platinum status for second year ANCHOR, England’s largest not-forprofit provider of housing and care for people in later life, has received platinum status in the RSPCA’s annual PawPrints Awards for the second year in a row, in recognition of an outstanding commitment to animal welfare. In 2023, Anchor became the first national housing provider to receive platinum status, having secured a gold award, in housing, for five years prior. The RSPCA PawPrints Awards, the only scheme of its kind, celebrates local authorities and public bodies for their pioneering work in animal welfare across England and Wales. Anchor’s chief executive Sarah Jones said: “I’m delighted that Anchor has achieved platinum status in the RSPCA PawPrints Awards for a second year. This is a great honour and recognises our ongoing commitment and dedication to supporting pet ownership at our locations. “Domestic pets can provide fantastic companionship, comfort and love and we pride ourselves on creating homes where people can continue to love living in later life and supporting pet ownership is a big part of that.” Research conducted by Anchor in 2020 by Censuswide, of
1,001 people aged 65 and over, highlighted the important role pets play in the lives of older people, with a quarter (24 per cent) saying they rely on their pets for companionship. The wellbeing benefits are clear too, with 64 per cent saying having a pet reduces feelings of loneliness, and 39 per cent saying pets help ease anxiety. Furthermore, nearly half (48 per cent) of people in later life say that owning a pet gets them up and about the house more often, contributing to their overall wellbeing and physical activity. Furthermore, in a survey of people who self-identified as having a mental health problem, 58 per cent of respondents stated that love and loyalty was the most beneficial aspect for their mental health of owning a pet – the most popular reason cited. Fifty per cent said company was the most important aspect, while 55 per cent agreed that “they are my best friend.” Anchor encourages residents who want a pet, or already own pets, to bring them to their properties. A compassionate pet policy was created in partnership with residents to ensure their accommodation is suitable and the needs of domestic pets living at Anchor properties are being met.
A Highland care home has celebrated its 10th anniversary with a community party. Innis Mhor care home in Tain was opened in 2014 by then Lord Lieutenant of Ross and Cromarty, Janet Bowen. Her successor, Joanie Whiteford, was a guest at the celebration, marking the milestone alongside residents, staff, relatives and friends. The event featured live music from singer Margo Fraser, a performance by Tain Pipe Band and a special appearance from Tain Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. The anniversary was also recognised in the Scottish Parliament by Highlands and Islands MSP Rhoda Grant, who praised the high standard of care at Innis Mhor and its sister home Urray House in Muir of Ord, which is also marking its 10th anniversary.
Residents and children enjoy fun day
MEADOWBROOK, an all-inclusive care home in the Connaught Care Collection, welcomed children from across Bishops Stortford to spend a memorable day interacting with the older generation. The youngsters brought a batch of freshly baked cookies as gifts, and made friends with the residents by swapping stories, games, laughter and songs. The visit, organised with the Happy Kids Childminders Service, was an opportunity for residents to relive memories of interacting with their own children when they were young. Chloe Graur, general manager at Tickets to this year’s Caring UK Awards at the Athena, Meadowbrook, said: “We believe any Leicester on Thursday, December 5th are now available. For activity which bridges the generational more information and to book your tickets visit divide is hugely valuable in itself. https://script-events.co.uk/cuk-awards-tickets/ 00057 Carebeans CaringUK January 2024.qxp_Carebeans CaringUK Ad 23mmx80mm 15/12/2023 16:08 Page 1 in care homes “Too often, residents
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can feel disconnected from the wider community; particularly younger people as they first explore the world. Activities like these give them a welcome chance to spend quality time with some energetic youngsters. “We believe it takes a whole community to offer the kind of ‘complete care’ our residents deserve. “That’s why it was so wonderful to see them interacting with the children, and we look forward to welcoming Happy Kids Childminders back for regular visits. This is just the start of the initiatives we have planned for promoting intergenerational bonds.” Many residents reported a strong sense of fulfilment being able to take an active and nurturing role in looking after children again.
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