Encore Care Homes has added a new module to its successful ‘Mind the Gap’ dementia training programme, which was launched last year across the care homes it manages in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Fareham.

The new module, which is called ‘The Lived Experience’, will be led by Andy Babbage from September 2019. Andy’s mother, Daphne, has dementia and lives at Fairmile Grange care home in Christchurch, which is managed by Encore. This complimentary training will be available to both staff members at Encore, as well as the family members of residents across all three homes.

During the workshop delivered by Andy, attendees will learn the importance of understanding what a resident was like before they were diagnosed with dementia, and why it is essential to continue to interact with each individual in a way that they are comfortable and familiar with.

There is also an opportunity for staff at Encore to learn from Andy, his first-hand experience on what impact the diagnosis of dementia can have on a person, as well as their family and the crucial role the care team should play in ensuring that each relative receives the correct support. Andy will also be sharing ideas on what care and support people outside a care home environment should show to someone who has dementia.

Commenting on this new module, Andy, said: “Following my mother moving into Fairmile Grange, I contacted the team at Encore and explained that I was keen to improve my knowledge of dementia and understand in greater detail the person-centred care that is given to every resident by the Encore care team. I felt this was important as it would help me to provide the best care possible for my mother and also help me when interacting with other residents during my visit.

“This was when I was introduced to the ‘Mind the Gap’ training programme, which was extremely beneficial. When I completed all the modules, I decided to approach Encore about the possibility of me bringing my first-hand experience of knowing someone before and after they have been diagnosed with dementia into Encore to benefit the care team and other relatives who were in the same situation as me.

“Ultimately, ‘The Lived Experience’ module has been created to emphasise the importance of making sure there is a comprehensive life story available for every resident, which the care team can refer to in order to provide the highest standard of care going forward.”

To find out more information about ‘The Lived Experience’ module, contact the Encore team on learning@encorecarehomes.co.uk or call 01202 087 444.

www.fairmilegrange.co.uk