Four staff members from care homes across the Highlands are to play an advanced role in supporting elderly residents, following their completion of a dementia ambassador course.
Meallmore Ltd employees Laura Ross, Kevin Mitchell, Ovidiu Suciu and Patricia Thomson undertook the course, which took six months to complete, through Stirling University.
Now, the dedicated four will take on the dementia ambassador role at their respective care homes, located in Inverness, Alness and Nairn.
The position will see them enhance the high quality of dementia care already provided by Meallmore by working closely with existing ambassadors, champions and other team member to support residents living with the condition. They will also work with the families, relatives and friends of residents to help increase their knowledge of its effects.
Kevin Mitchell, from Culduthel Care Home, says: “Supporting people with dementia is a hugely important part of any care service role, so it’s great to improve my knowledge and be able to help others support those living with the condition.”
Gerry Hennessey, managing director of Meallmore Ltd, says: “Dementia ambassadors are a vital part of our care services and have a positive impact on residents, their families and carers. They support everyone in making everyday interactions as enjoyable and stress free for those with dementia.
“Completing this course really highlights Laura, Kevin, Ovidiu and Patricia’s commitment to their care roles and I would like to personally congratulate them on this fantastic achievement.”
Laura Ross and Kevin Mitchell work in Inverness, at the Meallmore Lodge and Culduthel care homes, Ovidiu Suciu works at Redwoods care home in Alness and Patricia Thomson works at St Olaf care home in Nairn.
Dementia ambassadors meet the Scottish Government’s Promoting Excellence in dementia care framework. The employees were awarded the ‘Best Practice in Dementia Care’ certificate, which is accredited by both the Royal College of Nursing and City & Guilds.
