Showing posts with label Ilfracombe. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ilfracombe. Show all posts

Tuesday, 5 August 2025

A Day in the Life - From Domestic to Care Assistant at Devon Care Home

At Edenmore Nursing Home in Ilfracombe, care is more than a job – it’s a community, a purpose, and a chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Every act of kindness, every shared smile, and every moment of support adds up to something truly meaningful. Our team is united by the desire to make a real difference in people’s lives. Every member brings their own story, their own spark, and their own strengths, working together to create a place of dignity, compassion, and belonging. Being a care assistant at Edenmore means knowing that what you do each day matters – not just to those you care for, but to the whole community.

Daisy is one such person - this is the story of someone who began by keeping things clean and tidy in the background, playing a vital role in creating a safe, welcoming environment. Over time, she found her purpose on the frontline of care, growing into a different role where she continues to support others and make a meaningful impact. Her journey shows that at Edenmore, every role matters – and everyone has the opportunity to grow and find meaning in the work they do.

When someone starts at Edenmore, regardless of their position whether in care, domestic, maintenance or any other role, everyone takes part in the same training. This shared foundation means that everyone understands the core values of compassion, dignity, and person-centred care. It also opens up the possibility for growth and change. If someone, like Daisy, discovers a different passion or calling after joining, they already have the knowledge and support to explore that new path.

Daisy’s Journey in to Care

Having moved from Birmingham to North Devon in 2023, Daisy joined the Edenmore team at just 18 as a Domestic Assistant, keeping the home clean, safe and homely. As a Domestic Assistant, you naturally begin forming relationships with the people living in the home but without being directly involved in their personal care. Over time, Daisy felt drawn to becoming more involved; to support the family members she’d built connections with in a more meaningful and personal way. It was this connection that led her to explore a new career path in care.

Foundations of Care

Daisy first spoke with Gayle, Edenmore’s Home Manager, and shared that she felt she would find greater fulfilment working in a care role. Gayle encouraged her to explore this further, and she was soon put forward for shadow shifts, where she joined a new team - learning the role while working together towards the shared goal of maintaining dignity, encouraging independence and a continuation of life for family members.

A Typical Day at Edenmore

Mornings

‘A day to day at Edenmore begins at 7:30am when we take handover from the nurse in charge and find out everything that happened on their evening shift. I do enjoy working both night and day shifts so sometimes I'm hearing from the night or the day team. Handover is both a lovely way to check in with the team before the shift over a coffee or tea. This could include a new family member joining, an upcoming event that day, or that the needs have changed for a family member.

If I am on a day shift, we support all the family members with getting up when they are ready (there are no set times, we’re not an institute we’re a home). For some family members I provide personal care in the form of supporting to take a shower, a bath or a flannel wash. My goal around personal care is to make that family member feel as safe, dignified and comfortable as possible, as I can only imagine how daunting and embarrassing it must be. It is important to me that family members have the option to choose their own clothes to wear, whilst anticipating their needs and wants to the best of my ability. I will then assist that person getting dressed and to look and feel their best, which could involve a shave for the gents, or a new hairstyle for the ladies. Doing the ladies and gents hair is one of my favourite parts of personal care, I love being able to encourage family members to have a pamper, the ladies particularly like having their makeup and nails done.

For some of our family members, communication can be in different forms, so the importance of building trust is really important. Some of our family members are non-verbal, or have minimal communication abilities, which makes building this trust sometimes a bit delicate as everyone is different. A lot of supporting our non-verbal family members is about active listening and creating a safe, comfortable and supportive environment using mindful communication techniques such as paying close attention to body language, using eye contact to show I am engaged with them, and being aware of my posture as to not come across as imposing.

During breakfast we often sit all together and enjoy music and chats with meals, which is not only a great way to encourage family members to eat, but I’ve also had some of my most memorable laughs that way too! A lot of our family members require support with their food and drinks, this can vary from supporting them with eating their meal, to spoon-loading or nurturing. I have found that supporting someone with their meal is a great way to connect and start building trust too. Whilst some family members sit close together, hold hands and chat the whole way through, some of our more introverted family members prefer more space and time to connect. A particularly rewarding part of my role is when you can actually see that with every word over a meal, it becomes easier for family members to open up and form their own connections.

Another really important responsibility of mine is using Caredocs, a system to record daily notes to document the morning for each family member I support, if it wasn’t documented, it didn’t happen. I do this throughout the day, normally after breakfast, mid-afternoon and just before my shift ends - it takes about 2-3 hours out of my 12-hour shifts to complete. Not only is this part of our compliance, but it allows us to share what the family members get up to, as well as feeding back to the clinical team about any changes/concerns/thoughts that we noticed throughout the day.

Afternoon

Lunch is different every day, with alternatives served for those who may not like, or cannot eat the main options. For our family members on soft or pureed diets, we always have wonderfully decorated desserts and main meals. We serve snacks and drinks of family members' choice throughout the day, and we love helping them to eat a well-balanced diet and keep hydrated.

After lunch, some family members choose to rest, while others enjoy a quiet moment with the TV, a good book in the Edenmore library, or a creative activity – always with a cup of tea close by. The afternoons offer plenty of ways to stay engaged in ways that feel familiar and meaningful. Some of our gentlemen enjoy painting, building, or helping out with maintenance tasks – one even recently "interviewed" for a spot on the maintenance team and helped paint the hallways. Many of our ladies find comfort and purpose in folding laundry, tidying tables, or doing the dishes – continuing the everyday routines that feel like home. There are also themed music sessions, special visits (including some unforgettable ones from the local zoo), and even the occasional singalong led by Manager Gayle herself - depending on your taste in music, of course!

For family members with more complex needs or limited communication, we focus on sensory experiences which include music, lights, textures, or spending time in the garden. When the weather’s nice, we love going out into the Ilfracombe community using our car, and even in colder months, a trip to the park in a big coat can be a lovely change of scenery.

Evening

When it comes to a night shift it's all about making sure our family members feel safe and comfortable in their home, and helping them to get relaxed and unwind before bed. This looks different for every family member and sometimes midnight dancing and singing is what they want to do!

Night shifts involve supporting everyone to reposition in bed, help everyone use the toilet and stay hydrated overnight. This can also involve comforting some of our family members as the switch between day and night can be a little unsettling at times, so we keep things gentle and soothing.

Either way, night or day, there is always something to keep you busy, and always something to be done, at least at Edenmore we can have a laugh and a cuppa whilst doing it!

The Heart of Care

It's been a whale of a journey so far for me at Edenmore, understandably with lots of ups and downs which is something to be expected working in such a fast-paced environment with lots going on! The most challenging part of my role is the emotional demand, as seeing family members health decline as they move on in their journey is really hard. Being so involved in people’s lives, it is very easy to grow attached to them and their wonderful relatives who visit often, and it can be really upsetting to come in to work one day and hear they won’t be back. We’re often invited to funerals, and we receive the most thoughtful thank you cards which means the world to us because it reminds us just how important our job really is.

Although I think it is such an honour, and so beautiful to guide and support people on their final journeys, it really does take a toll sometimes. It is a blessing to feel things so deeply, and I have learnt it is never just me, there is always someone to wipe my tears when it gets too much and remind the team that we all have each other.

Care isn't for everyone, and it is definitely something you have to love doing, day in and day out. I admire each and every one of my team members who work so hard to support the home (and keep up with my drama of course!). My team's love for the family members and each other is uplifting and I couldn't think of a better group of people to work with. We have made friends for life and can be a challenging but rewarding job, it's so important that you work together and get on.

But honestly? Our family members are the ones who make every day that little bit brighter. We’re so lucky to spend time with such incredible people. To learn about their lives, their careers, their travels, their quirks. No two days are ever the same because no two people are. And that’s what makes this job so special.’

A Day in the Life - From Domestic to Care Assistant at Edenmore Care Home

To find out more  about Edenmore see here: https://www.edenmorenursinghome.com/

Wednesday, 23 July 2025

Respite by the Sea: A Devon Care Home’s Approach to Meaningful Short Breaks

A recent respite stay at Edenmore Nursing Home in Ilfracombe has shown how a change of scenery can offer a welcome break for individuals living in city-based care homes.

Edenmore recently welcomed Robert, a gentleman from a Bristol care home who was looking for a short break away from city home-life. He chose a care home in the North Devon town of Ilfracombe as a peaceful retreat, drawing on personal memories of holidays he had enjoyed there in the past.

During his stay, daily one-to-one support was in place, made possible by his choice to privately fund the additional care, giving him the opportunity to explore the local area and enjoy the fresh sea air. When he chose to spend time at the home rather than out in the community, he can often be found in the conservatory playing cards or sitting in the garden with his pipe, something he loves to do, whatever the weather, all while overlooking the sea. He has struck up a connection with Harry, another resident (known as family members to the team at the care home) and formed a friendship with Sarah, Edenmore’s Administrator, though he jokingly refers to her as his PA, since she’s always printing things out for him!

Gayle Cooper, Edenmore’s Home Manager shared “What started as a short two-week stay has now been extended to a month, a clear sign of how much Robert has enjoyed his time here. At Edenmore our ethos is centred on the continuation of life, recognising that everyone is on their own journey, and that care should support people to keep living in ways that feel meaningful to them."

If you’d like to have a glimpse in to life at Edenmore Nursing Home, please visit our Facebook page Edenmore Nursing Home - Facebook or if interested in short-term or long-term stay please Contact Us .

Respite by the Sea: A Devon Care Home’s Approach to Meaningful Short Breaks

Respite by the Sea: A Devon Care Home’s Approach to Meaningful Short Breaks
 

Thursday, 5 June 2025

Edenmore Nursing Home Steps Back to 1940s

Edenmore Nursing Home recently celebrated VE Day in style with a lively 1940s themed party at the Ilfracombe Home. Held in one of the home’s dining rooms, the event welcomed all residents (referred to as family members) and their loved ones to drop in and enjoy the celebrations.

The morning was busy as the care team decorated the home, creating an atmosphere that transported everyone back to the 1940s. Meanwhile, the kitchen team was preparing traditional food and desserts, including homemade bread, spam sandwiches, scones, and a delicious high tea. In the afternoon, the music was switched to fit the 1940s theme, and the team donned their best costumes. There were even prizes for the best dressed male and female, which added a bit of extra fun to the celebrations!

As the day went on, the team, family members, and their guests fully embraced the themed atmosphere. Some family members were inspired to share stories from the past, reflecting on the importance of VE Day. The party also featured a female vocalist (drum roll, please...) performed by none other than DJ Jude! The war time music had everyone singing, dancing, and enjoying the energy of the day.

The 1940s themed party not only celebrated history but also provided a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, have fun, and make new memories in a caring and safe environment. Gayle Cooper, Manager of Edenmore, said: ‘We had so much fun commemorating this day with our family members and their guests, thank you to all who celebrated with us!’

Although Edenmore is home to people living with various types of Dementia, the team believes this should never stop anyone from living life to the fullest. With regularly planned activities and events like VE Day, the team strive to provide a high quality of life for their family members. This approach promotes dignity, respect, and empowerment, creating a culture of compassionate care.

Edenmore Nursing Home Steps Back to 1940s

Edenmore Nursing Home Steps Back to 1940s

For more about life at Edenmore Nursing Home, 

Thursday, 17 October 2024

Ilfracombe Carnival Dazzles Edenmore Nursing Home Residents

Residents of Edenmore Nursing Home enjoyed a delightful evening filled with laughter and excitement during a special visit to the local Ilfracombe carnival.

Four residents, affectionately known as family members, along with five team members, made their way to the starting point of the procession. Joining the Ilfracombe Community, who wouldn’t let the weather dampen their spirits, they cheered on the carnival from the sidelines along the high street. Each family member was armed with their own bags of change to donate to local charities participating in the carnival. They admired the fabulous floats, lively dancing, music and vibrant costumes that were on display. With the support of the team, they were encouraged to independently choose which charities to donate to.

“Everyone in the carnival came over to us, and some even had photos with our family members!” said Registered Manager Gayle Cooper “the family members had so much fun, I’m sure a return visit is in order for next year!”

When asked if the family members enjoyed their evening out, one family member at Edenmore Nursing Home said, “This has been amazing,” and another added that he “loved every minute.”

The North Devon Nursing Home is committed to ensuring a continuation of life for the family members at Edenmore by providing them with fulfilling and active opportunities. This visit into the community to see the carnival is a perfect example of that commitment.

To find out more about Edenmore Nursing Home please visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com
Ilfracombe Carnival Dazzles Edenmore Nursing Home Residents, Photo copyright Edenmore Nursing Home (All Rights Reserved)

When asked the family members what they thought post carnival 

Peter - "loved every minute, can we do it again tomorrow?"  

Penny - "had so much fun, brings back memories."  

Kate - "I loved it". 

Gladys - "this has been amazing, I would pay money to watch this" 

Pam - "had a massive smile on her face" 

AN EDENMORE NURSING HOME MEDIA RELEASE

Wednesday, 24 July 2024

Bastille Day with Carole Mann at Edenmore Nursing Home

While everyone was caught up in the excitement of the football final on Sunday 14th July, Carole Placet Mann had her mind on a more special occasion: Bastille Day, the French celebration of independence and freedom. 
 
Bastille Day, on 14th July, marks the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, a big event in the French Revolution. The day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, parties, and public gatherings, symbolising French unity and the values of liberty and equality.

Carole, originally from France, was born in the 1960s near Versailles, in the suburbs of Paris. For her, Bastille Day has always meant holidays, fireworks, marching bands, and the best French food you can imagine. She fondly recalls street banquets with neighbors, all celebrating the Republic.

This year, Carole spent Bastille Day at Edenmore Nursing Home, where she works. She joked with her colleagues, hinting at bringing out the guillotine if they made a mess in her kitchen. Carole's life up till now has been quite a journey. She studied languages in the 1980s and moved to England at twenty. After ten years as a personal assistant in Hammersmith, she switched gears to special needs education, working in places like California and Vietnam. Carole has been married to her husband, Mike, for thirty years. They have traveled a lot due to his job, raising two children, Eliza and Philip, along the way.

Joining the Edenmore team
Carole joined Edenmore in Ilfracombe over four years ago. She started as a carer and became a home-maker after a year. She considers everyone at Edenmore Nursing Home her second family. Known for her hospitality, Carole makes sure visitors always get a drink or something to eat. She also ensures her teammates never skip lunch, playfully warning to put their names on the food and fluid charts if they do.

Aprons
True to her home-maker past, Carole is easily recognisable in the hallway by her unique kitchen aprons with big pockets, a collection that is now at 27. Her daughter recently mentioned that another one is on the way. Carole’s apron collection started in her childhood in Normandy, where her parents were farmers. Her mum always wore an apron, and she bought Carole her first one, with polka dots, when Carol was just nine years old. Carole didn’t like getting her clothes dirty, and the habit of wearing an apron stuck with her.

Carole’s love for aprons is just one of the many ways she brings a piece of her heritage to Edenmore. Through her food, stories, and warm presence, Carole continues to share her culture with the residents, fondly referred to as family members, making Edenmore Nursing Home a place where diversity and tradition are celebrated.

We like to celebrate the lives of the people who live and work with us. One of the ways in which we do this is to write about and share their inspiring stories. 
Bastille Day with Carole Mann at Edenmore Nursing Home
 Edenmore Nursing Home Media Release

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To find out more about Edenmore Nursing Home please visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com-

 

Thursday, 16 May 2024

Edenmore Nursing Home Gets Arty!

Edenmore Nursing Home was delighted to welcome Sarah Fenner this week, from Creative Minds on Wednesday.

Creative Minds art sessions allow people to express themselves through the creative process, and they deliver these sessions to many types of venues including care homes.

Art can remind people of what they can do, not what they can’t do. This creates a sense of pride when residents, fondly referred to as family members, display their art in their home and it can also help to build individuals confidence through finding this new skill or hobby.

Art for people living with a Dementia is beneficial because it provides a non-verbal means of expression, allowing individuals to communicate thoughts, feelings, and memories that may be difficult to articulate verbally. Gayle, the Home Manager, summed-up the event by saying “Having creative minds visit us inspires our family members to connect, be creative, learn new skills, and most importantly have fun. Art can be a mood enhancer, the family members themselves are less heightened and more engaged.”

At the core of Edenmore Nursing Home's philosophy lies a commitment to fostering independence and embracing life's spontaneous moments. By facilitating activities like this, the care home aims to create an environment where residents, feel empowered to explore new experiences and forge meaningful connections outside their immediate community. 
 
 Edenmore Nursing Home Gets Arty!
 
Edenmore Nursing Home Gets Arty!
 
Edenmore Nursing Home Media Release May 2024
 
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To find out more about Edenmore Nursing Home please visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

To find out more about Creative Minds please visit https://creativeminds.art/