Kirsty joined Abbotsleigh in May 2022 and has been enjoying her varied role as Resident Liaison and Dementia Champion, engaging with residents and family members to keep them connected.
What made you apply for a role within your Home?
My partner originally saw the job advert and said that I would be good at it. I didn’t realise that there were jobs like this and I was very nervous at first as I didn’t think I would be accepted for my position, as I didn’t have a background in Care.
What does your role involve?
My role is to liaise with our residents’ families and aim to build good relationships with them, so they feel more at ease having their family members away from them. I also love to do activities with our residents, it’s so nice to see people engaged and happy. My daily routine is a busy one; from working on the computer, to staying connected with families and working on care plans. No two days are the same, which I thrive on.
What skills do you need to do your role?
Patience, being able to think on your feet, creativity, being understanding and having a smile!
What elements of your role do you most enjoy?
Feeling like I have made someone’s moment or day better. It can be emotional and I just want to make people happy and to feel secure and content in their Home, as it can be confusing for some residents. When I find something that a resident loves to do – that gives them pride and happiness – I feel elated and that all of our efforts matter.
What activities do your residents enjoy doing?
Many of our residents enjoy arts and crafts, as being creative is good for the soul. When we have live music, you see people dancing and singing along and the recognition on their faces and memories that pop makes everyone happy. We run exercise sessions to get everyone’s bodies moving, plus cookery sessions, but most residents just want time, attention and love.
How would you describe your Home and working with your colleagues?
Warm, friendly and supportive. Everyone is kind and caring towards our residents and each other. We know our residents well and want their lives to be as fulfilled as possible – and that really shows when you enter our Home. I love the diversity here and seeing everyone’s strengths while they work in a team.
What support/training have you received for your role? Do you have any further training planned?
I have completed a course called ‘Learn from Living with Dementia – Train the Trainer’. I am currently studying a diploma in Dementia Awareness with the National Activity Providers Association (NAPA). In the future, I will be training our team members in Dementia Awareness, which I am really looking forward to.
What are you most looking forward to doing with your residents in future?
I love taking residents outside, especially in the summer. It’s nice for a change of scenery, just to take in the air and listen to the birds. I also love it when we have parties, and relatives come to join us. It’s very busy, but very rewarding, seeing everyone having a nice time.
