Avery Healthcare Employee Wins Prestigious Award - National Care Activities Coordinator 2011

At just 23 years old Helen was one of a national list of entrants nominated by residents and their families. Along with 3 others shortlisted Helen was invited to attend an interview in London with a panel of judges from The National Care Awards.

Helen said of her win, “I am absolutely thrilled. I plan a range of activities to keep all of our residents mentally challenged. Every one is different and as such has differing needs so its important Recreation & Leisure Organisers everywhere work to ensure the individual needs of residents are being met. Creativity isn't just about being able to paint or draw. It's about expression, ideas, passion, problem solving, individuality and adapting each resident's qualities into the personal planner that I design with residents for the enjoyment of day-to-day activities. All the activities I create within the activity programme are to treat people not to entertain people, but to inspire one another and learn from each other how to live, laugh and love life."

Avery Healthcare’s Group Recreation & Leisure Organiser, Lindsay Kelly commented, “We are enormously proud of Helen. She really is an inspiration to residents and employees alike. Avery Healthcare has a positive approach to investing in all staff. Investing in training our R&L Organisers is at the top of our agenda. As the care landscape is changing, especially in regards the increase in number of people living with dementia we need to ensure we are constantly evolving policy and practice which includes supporting employees with the training they need to ensure residents achieve their maximum potential. Mental well-being is as important as physical good health – Helen winning this award proves that we are leading the way in setting the standards for the future.”