Star…


In You First 29 we reported on our outstanding achievements in winning and being shortlisted for a raft of social and health care awards. Since then, our talented and committed staff have gone on to win a further four awards! You First caught up with our winners to congratulate them and ask them to share with you the secrets of their success...


You First | www.c-i-c.co.uk | 17


Great North East Care Awards Peter Murray - The Care Home Nutrition and Hydration Award


Peter is Head Chef at CIC’s St Johns Nursing Home, Darlington. He was nominated for the award having helped the home, which supports 24 people with dementia and enduring mental health issues, achieve a 5 Star Food Safety Rating for six consecutive years and has also developed a menu for residents based upon the latest research in dementia catering.


“Nutrition is essential for keeping people healthier for longer, so I want to ensure that each resident has a balanced and varied menu and actually eats food they really enjoy,” says Peter.


To do this, Peter talks to all 24 residents and their families, and creates dishes that they would have cooked at home. He has also researched ways to better cater for people with dementia and implemented techniques which help with co- ordination when eating and improved ambiance.


Peter says,“At St John’s I am encouraged to take a person centred approach and come up with ways to make meal times a pleasant and enjoyable experience for each person we support.”


Peter adds, “I love my job and feel I make a positive difference here.”


National Care Awards Sarah Loftus - Special Needs Manager Award


Sarah manages Mount Road, a Sunderland service that supports six people with learning difficulties and mental health problems to lead full and happy lives in their community. She was nominated by Michelle Elstob, CIC service manager. She said: “Sarah ensures every individual is supported in a person-centred way."


When Donna (35) expressed her wish for a home of her own, Sarah worked hard with her and her family and multi disciplinary team to enable Donna to move into her own tenancy and gain independence. She went from receiving 24 hour live-in support to eventually reducing her support package to six hours a week.


“Donna was determined to live on her own and her confidence grew with every personal milestone she reached," explains Sarah. "It was not only a great achievement for Donna but it was also a triumph for us all. Helping people lead fuller lives is very satisfying and I am lucky to share that experience with all my dedicated staff team at Mount Road.”


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