St Ives care home manager shortlisted for national award

A care home in St Ives is celebrating after its manager was announced as a finalist for a prestigious national award.

Linda Martinez, Home Manager at Care UK’s Field Lodge, on London Road, has been shortlisted in the National Care Awards (NCA) 2023.

The awards recognise teams and individuals that epitomise excellence, innovation, dedication and outstanding contributions within the care catering sector. Having wowed the judges with her impressive levels of support and care, Linda is in the running for the coveted title of ‘Dementia Care Manager of the Year’.

Constantly striving to make the home a better place, Linda supported Field Lodge to become the first Care UK home to be awarded the ‘Care Fit for VIPs’ accreditation from Worcester University. The accreditation acknowledges a gold-tier level of care for residents living with dementia, as well as heightened support for relatives thanks to a strong focus on person-centred care.

This individually tailored approach ensures residents with dementia are supported to live as independently as possible while maintaining fulfilling lives based on their own preferences, hobbies and needs. From meals to activities, residents are encouraged to make their own choices where possible, promoting a sense of calm within the home and enabling residents to retain a strong sense of identity. 

Linda’s approachable and supportive attitude creates a safe atmosphere within Field Lodge where everyone is welcome. Keen to create an inclusive environment, Linda and the rest of the team work closely within the community to host a variety of events including a Notting Hill Carnival-style open day and activities to celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month. Currently, Linda is working closely with the home’s Dementia Care Champion to campaign for a ‘dementia hour’ at the local swimming pool, which would allow more people to safely access the facility.

Furthering her support for residents, the team and the wider community, Linda is a trained Mental Health First Aider. The qualification enables Linda to more closely support residents in all aspects of care, both physical and psychological, as well as being the foundation for the home’s ‘mental health buddies’ system – team members Linda has helped train to recognise and respond to symptoms in both residents and colleagues.

Commenting on her achievement, Linda said: “I’m delighted to have been nominated for this award, and to have my efforts recognised nationally is such an honour!

“I’m passionate about making Field Lodge a wonderful place to call home – ensuring everyone is cared for individually and to the highest standard possible. I’m incredibly proud of the whole team who make the home such a comfortable place for everyone.”

Field Lodge is a modern, purpose-built care home providing full-time residential, nursing, and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has a choice of lounges and dining rooms, along with facilities such as an activity room, cinema and hair salon.