MENTAL HEALTH
"More often than not, many mental health
issues – or early signs of them at least – can be simply supported
by having someone to talk to"
access to outdoor space, supporting residents with a walk around a local park or simple gardening activities can have equal benefits to a resident’s wellbeing.
DEMENTIA CARE
It is estimated that between 20-40% of those living with dementia can suffer with depression, and many symptoms of dementia can have crossovers with other mental health conditions which means that misdiagnosis can be an issue. Here at Belvedere House, we have a specialist dementia facility in our dedicated dementia wing for those living with cognitive health issues. Opened in 2011 by the Society’s patron, HRH The Princess Royal, our dementia annexe was the UK’s first specialist dementia centre for seafarers and came to fruition aſter staff identified that 40% of residents at the time had some form of dementia.
We have seen first-hand the positive impact that early diagnosis and dementia therapies can have on residents and we use techniques such as memory boxes, music sessions and one- to-one support as part of our care programme. Our trained Dementia Champions not only support residents in their care, but also the friends and family of our dementia patientsand, in pre-COVID times, we usually run a monthly coffee morning where they can chat in a relaxed and friendly environment.
STAFF TRAINING
As important as it is, the mental health of our residents, however, is not our only priority, as we have around 100 staff members to support. The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society has a dedicated in-home trainer to support staff with a range of
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training to care for residents and bolster personal development. We also identified the need to invest in training (Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health) for senior members of the team to help identify mental health issues within the workforce and understand how best to help our colleagues who might be struggling with their mental wellbeing.
The training covers everything from understanding exactly what mental health is and potential triggers for those who might struggle with it, along with how to spot warning signs for specific mental health issues – whether it be depression, anxiety or other problems – and how best to care for staff who may be suffering in the workplace. This is to help our staff and ensure they feel supported, but also in order to ensure we can continue delivering the highest levels of care that our residents need and deserve.
The last turbulent year has highlighted that our mental health is just as important as our physical health and should not be taken for granted. It is vital that care providers invest in supporting the mental wellbeing of residents, including ensuring the correct training is in place so staff are able to identify the signs of mental health issues and provide appropriate support.
As we start to see the light at the end of the tunnel, we urge all care homes to take note of the importance of protecting the mental health of employees and residents and implement the proper procedures required to support them throughout the pandemic and beyond.
https://royalalfredseafarers.co.uk - 45 -
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