Over the last couple of years, care homes have rarely left the news, but taking a look behind the headlines we meet some of the people in Stroud working in care to find out about their own journeys and diverse experiences.
Gloucestershire charity Lilian Faithfull Care employs almost 60 people in the Stroud area working at Resthaven residential and nursing home in Pitchcombe, and Uplands adult day care hub in Stroud.
Some staff come with a long and rich experience of care, others come to the charity straight from school or wanting a career change, but as we find out, whatever their role, it is the people that they help care for which makes their jobs so rewarding.
Chef Peter started his career in a Gloucester restaurant, but he finds it much more rewarding working in a care environment. “The feedback you get makes it really rewarding working in care home. There is a connection with the people you cook for and it makes it a much more personal experience.”
Peter explains, “When we serve the food I take time to be with the residents. I can see people eating the food I cook, I can see their reaction in the dining room when I am with them. I feel that the love I put into cooking the food turns into happiness for the residents. It is very encouraging to get the lovely feedback; it boosts my confidence and happiness. If you put your heart into cooking here it will be appreciated.”
Peter had wanted to do a qualification when he worked at the restaurant but it was such a busy environment it didn’t happen. At Lilian Faithfull Care he has not only achieved his Level 2 production chef qualification but was also awarded Apprentice of the Year 2020 by the HIT training provider.
Xaviour has been a Carer in the UK for 16 years and has been an integral part of the team at Resthaven for the last four years. He values the continuity of working at a care home because of the understanding he builds up with the residents. “I like looking after older people, you learn from the residents. They know me, we know each other and everyone’s routines. The dignity and privacy is very important.”
Stroud resident Lesley, manager of Resthaven care home, is delighted to be working on her home turf. Lesley started her career over 40 years ago as a nurse and worked in South Africa for many years. It was when Lesley returned to the UK she knew she wanted to specialise in working with older people and soon joined Lilian Faithfull Care, managing another of their homes before coming to Resthaven. “I absolutely love my job,” explains Lesley, “Every day is different and it gives me so much fulfilment.”
As Resthaven provides both residential and nursing care it utilises all of Lesley’s professional knowhow. However, it is still often the small things that Lesley appreciates the most; “It sounds clichéd but I take so much pleasure in making residents smile.”
If you would like to find out more about Resthaven care home, Uplands day care or working in care visit: www.lilianfaithfull.co.uk
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