Extra Care goes the extra mile in Bolton

14 Mar 2018 02:29
Published by: Daniel Almond

Residents living in Extra Care housing in Bolton are safe and cared for by an effective and responsive care team from Bolton Cares.

The service has recently been inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and received a ‘good’ rating in all categories, and ‘good’ overall.

Bolton Cares is responsible for providing care to residents living in 10 Extra Care schemes in the borough.

The accommodation is rented and some residents receive personal care and support from Bolton Cares to help them live independently, including help with washing, dressing and eating.

In some schemes there is a thriving social calendar which can include luncheon clubs, entertainment, activities and trips out.

Residents are included in planning activities, with one stating: “I have made friends. The tables are all full at the luncheon club. I can’t think of anything to improve.”

Some residents even get involved in the recruitment of staff, sitting on the interview panel.

When asked by CQC, residents were full of praise for the carers, with one saying: “They are definitely respectful. It feels comfortable, they respect if I don’t want to come down.”

Another one added: “Staff are brilliant, very hard working and caring. They would do anything for you.”

Inspectors also noticed first-hand how staff were respectful and friendly. The report states that staff demonstrated “good values and a caring attitude” and that they valued the importance of empowering people and encouraging independence.

Residents said they felt safe, with some schemes benefiting from overnight staff cover. Other schemes have the Careline service, which is an emergency social alarm system provided by Bolton at Home 365 days a year. Residents in receipt of this service can press a pendant alarm for a response.

In addition, Bolton Cares’ employees said they were happy in their work. One staff member said: “We work together as a team. There is a good atmosphere.” Others agreed that they enjoyed the job and had “job satisfaction” at the end of the day.

Chairman of the Bolton Cares steering committee, Cllr Cliff Morris, said: “We are delighted to once again receive an excellent review of the services provided by Bolton Cares. Our aim is to help people to live a full life and as independently as possible, and our Extra Care schemes certainly go the extra mile in helping residents achieve this.”

Chief Executive of Bolton Cares, John Livesey, said: “I’m proud of the staff who work in extra care. They work hard to deliver a high quality service and it’s really pleasing to see this being recognised by CQC. It is evident from the comments of the residents interviewed that they truly value the care and support they receive.”

Bolton Cares provides care at the following Extra Care schemes in Bolton: Campbell House, Eden Lodge, Eldon Street, Kenyon Rise, Manor Gardens, Maxton House, Merton, Rushey Fold Court, Thurstons and Whitecroft.

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