A close call at the care awards for Sandfields activity coordinators

Home news

Jun 09, 2015

Two activity coordinators at Sandfields care home were piped to the post in the Activities Champion category at the 2015 Care Awards, hosted by Gloucestershire Care Providers Association.

The award celebrates the importance of activity coordinators in a care setting, and nominations call for those dedicated coordinators who go the extra mile to develop activities that will benefit residents’ wellbeing, whilst also being enjoyable and varied. 

Marta Ruckgaber and David Ible both joined the team at Sandfields in September 2014 and since their arrival have completely transformed the activities provision at the home, with residents now having a minimum of two organised activities per day,  as well as dedicated, one to one activity in between.

Their exciting activities programme includes gardening, bird watching, poetry, arm chair exercises, quizzes, pet therapy visits, spiritually led activities and lots more! Residents living at Sandfields have also been encouraged to learn new skills and take part in group activities such as music sessions and games.

As well as the varied daily activities, residents are also invited on trips out of the home including visits to local pubs, parks and tea dances. 

Ruth Baggs, home manager said, “Marta and David have transformed activities here at Sandfields, making sure that every resident feels included in both the group and one to one activities.  Resident’s individual preferences and abilities are always taken into account and we aim to include all our residents in the activities, be it in the organised group activities, or with one to one time. “

David said “We love spending time with each resident, getting to know their likes and dislikes.  That way, our programme of activities can be completely tailored to their needs.  Variety is key, and we are always coming up with new ideas.  We may be runners up this year, but with our ever evolving programme and some exciting new ideas coming up, we hope to take first place next time around.”

As well as an extensive activities programme, Sandfields regularly has themed days throughout the year, which have included an Egyptian day with Egyptian foods and belly dancing, a Burns night celebration, a St Patrick’s day celebration a and an Indian themed day  with traditional food and dress.