Voluntary Sector North West
St. Thomas Centre
23 October 2012
The Older People’s Programme, funded by the BIG Lottery, significantly improved the wellbeing of older people receiving care. They delivered activities in residential homes and other care settings to over 1,300 older people and more than 7,800 care staff received training on issues such as dignity and nutrition. The evaluation showed increased physical activity and nutritional awareness as well as improved self-esteem and community belonging.
Utilising work and experiences from the projects, as well as knowledge gained through partnership working, a range of resources were developed which people can utilise:
Enriched Opportunities 'How To' Guide and worker's handbook - this leads an organisation through setting up, running and sustaining a successful project to improve the nutritional, physical and mental wellbeing of older people in residential care
Dignity Training Pack – aimed at care organisations and encourages care staff to consider dignity in care and how to ensure they contribute to the wellbeing of those they support. ‘Scenario cards’, a DVD and detailed training instructions aid delivery
Domiciliary Care 'How To' Guide - details how professional and informal carers can maximise impact on nutritional, physical and mental wellbeing of those with high end needs living in their own homes
To access their resources, free downloads or other useful information, go to http://www.ageuk.org.uk/westcumbria/Target-Wellbeing/Resources/
Alternatively, you can call 01946 66669 or email: information@ageukwestcumbria.org.uk
Regional Voices, of which VSNW is a partner, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded funding from the Department of Health (Innovation, Excellence and Strategic Development Fund) to support voluntary and community sector influence on health and wellbeing boards
The Department for Business Innovation & Skills has published the findings of a research study on European Social Fund delivery with the aim of informing thinking around the next round of programmes
Healthwatch England was formed in April 2013 and is the independent consumer champion for health and social care in England. They have now published a list of local Healthwatch, including those for the North West
The Local Government Chronicle held a webinar to explore the essential elements to ensure local healthwatch organisations are effective in scrutinising local health services and provide a voice for communities. Regional Voices, of which VSNW are a part, are mentioned.
An analysis has been published by NAVCA of the 74 areas that received Transforming Local Infrastructure and provides a national perspective, and allows the sharing of information and ideas
