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Building strong relationships and connections is crucial in any job role, but it holds special significance for an Activities Coordinator. This role demands more than just showing up for a paycheck; it requires passion, dedication, and genuine care for the people you serve.

Beyond the Job: Creating a Second Family

For me, the clients I work with are not just part of my job—they are like a second family. They are friends and, in many ways, feel like my own grandparents. Establishing strong bonds with them makes delivering activities more effective and enjoyable. Without these connections, it becomes challenging to encourage participation and engagement in the activities we plan.

The Foundation of Effective Activities: Strong Relationships

A solid relationship foundation makes activities more meaningful and enjoyable for everyone involved. Clients are more likely to participate and engage when they feel a personal connection with the Activities Coordinator. This bond fosters trust and makes tailoring activities that resonate with their interests and preferences easier.

Dedication and Personal Connection

I have dedicated myself to building these relationships. I want my clients to see me as a shoulder to cry on, a helping hand when needed, and a safe, trustworthy space filled with fun. This dedication involves learning about their backgrounds, likes, dislikes, and those unique quirks you pick up through conversations. It also means allowing them to get to know me, creating a mutual trust that enriches our interactions.

More Than Just Activities: Genuine Engagement

Being an Activities Coordinator is about more than just organising events and activities. Sometimes, it’s about sitting down for a good old natter over a hot cup of tea. Often, everyone needs your time and attention to feel that their thoughts and opinions matter. Listening and engaging in meaningful conversations are just as important as any planned activity.

Person-Centered Care: A Key to Success

Person-centred care is at the heart of my approach. By appreciating and incorporating clients’ likes and interests into activities, we create familiar and enjoyable experiences. This personalised attention makes the activities more engaging and reinforces positive memories and feelings, strengthening our bond.

The Rewards of Strong Connections

The impact of these strong connections is evident. I see smiles when I walk into the room, hear clients telling me I am a godsend, and feel their trust in me for advice and support. These moments remind me of the difference I am making in their lives, making even the hard days worthwhile. Building strong relationships and connections is not just a part of the job for an Activities Coordinator; it is the essence of it. These bonds make the role rewarding and fulfilling, turning a job into a vocation and clients into a second family. By Sherrie Steptoe Activities Coordinator

My journey at Lee Mount Residential Home began in March 2019, when I joined as a junior care staff member on the night shift. Thanks to the support and opportunities provided by Lee Mount, I have grown and developed both personally and professionally over the years.

Starting as a Junior Carer

When I first started, I was eager to learn and make a difference. Working nights allowed me to develop a deep understanding of our resident’s needs and preferences by engaging with them and reviewing their personalised care plans. The management team recognised my dedication and enrolled me in an NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care. This opportunity was pivotal in my career progression.

Transitioning to a Senior Carer

After two years on the night shift, I transitioned to a senior carer role on the day shift. This change was challenging initially due to the increased interaction with family members and various healthcare professionals, including doctors, district nurses, and specialists from different organisations. However, this experience enhanced my understanding of the importance of working in partnership with other professionals, increasing my knowledge and skills.

Expanding My Skills and Knowledge

Throughout my time at Lee Mount, I have completed numerous training courses on topics such as dementia, mental health, and fire safety. I expressed an interest in end-of-life care, and my managers supported me by enrolling me in a specialised training course at Overgate Hospice and Huddersfield Royal Infirmary. This course covered pain management, skin integrity, spiritual preferences, and end-of-life care planning, which I recently completed, earning the title of End of Life Champion. Additionally, I have completed a course in skin integrity and wound care, further enhancing my capabilities as a champion of care. These training opportunities have been invaluable in helping me provide the best possible support to our residents.

Becoming a Team Leader

With continued support from the management team, I have progressed from a senior carer to a team leader. In this role, I work closely with other staff members, supporting their development and ensuring we provide high-quality care to our residents. I have built strong relationships with external professionals, staff, and family members, all of which contribute to the well-being of our residents.

Looking to the Future

Having been at Lee Mount Residential Home for five years, I am now enrolled in an NVQ Level 4 in Health and Social Care, which I aim to complete this year. My goal is to continue learning and developing my skills to provide the best support possible to our residents, staff, family members, and the management team. I am committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment that ensures the highest standards of care for everyone at Lee Mount. My journey at Lee Mount has been incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunities and support I have received. I look forward to continuing to grow and make a positive impact on the lives of our residents. By Jemma Ogden Team Leader