Hi Everyone,
It’s that time of year again, doesn’t time fly? So as we end 2017 I wanted to say a huge thank you to everyone as we end the year in a positive way. However, this year is tinged with sadness as we have had to say our goodbyes to everyone at Linden Road, which closed its’ doors at the end of June. This decision was taken reluctantly but the legacy of Linden Road will make a positive contribution to our future.
Once again we find ourselves in a good position financially as we approach our year end, and it is once again a testament to everyone’s efforts that we can again be proud of our achievements this year thus far.
Our 5-year plan is continuing to move on at a nice pace and we are considering several new development options as we look to develop our business portfolio which will safeguard our future even further. There have been some delays with the developer at one site but we aim to clarify that position early in the New Year. We are also looking at our Investment options to underpin our position.
Despite a lot of pessimism in the National press about the “State of Care” in the UK, we have managed to maintain good occupancy levels throughout the majority of the year, and pride ourselves on our continued excellent levels of service to our residents. A fact borne out by both Castle Farm and the Grove maintaining their “Good” status after CQC visits earlier in the year.
We have made further positive steps forward this year with regards to Volunteers. We have appointed a new Activities Coordinator – Helen Angel – who has made a big impact with residents, volunteers and staff in creating an ongoing plan enabling our residents to have a very active and diverse program of events. This has enabled Claire – our Volunteer Coordinator – to focus on managing our volunteers in a more positive way and offering a greater level of support. Helen and Claire’s partnership is working well and we look forward to an interesting year next year. The Staff Liaison committee is continuing to develop and has been instrumental in installing a new staff contract across both homes, and assisted in the implementation of a new staff benefit scheme.
We appointed a new Trustee this year and are still actively looking to strengthen our Executive Committee so that we can meet the challenges ahead more effectively as we move forward.
As ever, I will not finish without thanking all our staff, volunteers and family members who once again have shown commitment, dedication and support to all our residents to ensure they continue to live in a safe, secure and happy environment. All of your involvement is greatly appreciated, as every day you enrich the lives of our most important people – our residents.
With your continued support and commitment, I am sure we will continue to prosper and grow
May we wish you all a Wonderful Christmas and a Prosperous and Peaceful New Year
