Wellbeing


passions. Liz has motivated other residents to take part in the project and helped them to think creatively and imaginatively about how they can express their interests and the things that they see as important to include on the quilt.


The project has drawn on Liz’s longstanding artistic talents and enabled her to gain fulfilment from working with fellow residents on a collaborative task. For example, she helped one resident create a portrait of a dog and another a picture of rock n’ roll dancing. This has been an immensely diverse project that has allowed Liz to get to know the backgrounds and passions of other residents and appreciate the different things they value.


Sunrise of Southbourne recognises the role that residents like Liz play in the life of the community and paid tribute to their kindness at a monthly resident council meeting in July. In addition to Liz, the efforts of two other residents were recognised in particular; Irene,


Lisa Rickman


Lisa has worked for Sunrise Senior Living UK for seven years and has progressed with the organisation as it has grown to include a second brand, Gracewell Healthcare. With nearly 5000 team members and further growth planned, Lisa continues to be overwhelmed by the excitement, fun and feeling of reward that comes from working in the sector. Following a long career in retail and pharmaceuticals, both in the UK and overseas, Lisa takes great pride in being part of the Sunrise Senior Living and Gracewell Healthcare family.


The project has drawn on Liz’s longstanding artistic talents and enabled her to gain fulfilment from working with fellow residents on a collaborative task


who shows compassion on a daily basis to residents who are struggling or are upset, and Marie, who helps new residents to settle in. All three residents were given a flowering plant and a thank you certificate to acknowledge the important role they have in enhancing the wellbeing of other residents. This shows the importance of recognising the efforts of active residents and displaying thanks through both words and gifts. This ensures residents feel that their work is appreciated, generates a sense of togetherness as a community and inspires residents to continue making a difference to the lives of those around them.


Conclusion


The benefits of resident ambassadors are felt widely. Encouraging resident participation and responsibility brings great rewards for the ambassador themselves, the care home in which they reside and the surrounding community. While care homes must continue to view their first duty as providing exceptional care to residents, whatever their individual needs and desires, it is also important that they recognise the role that residents can have in providing a service to the care home too. When a resident wants to express their talents, voice their feedback and help others, there must always be space for them to do so. TCHE


January 2018 • www.thecarehomeenvironment.com


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