Leamington Spa care home shortlisted for national award

 

A care home in Leamington Spa is celebrating after being nominated for a prestigious national award.

Care UK’s Priors House, on Old Milverton Lane, has been shortlisted in the ‘Care Team of the Year’ category in the National Care Awards 2024, after receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating by the Care Quality Commission earlier this year.

The awards recognise teams and individuals that demonstrate innovation, dedication and exceptional service within the long-term care sector. 

Judges were impressed by how residents are at the heart of everything Priors House does, and commended the team for their commitment to getting to know them all on a personal level. Before residents move in, team members learn about their hobbies, interests, skills and life history. The home also has a Wishing Tree, an initiative that allows residents to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new – no wish is too big or too small.

Every Friday the home hosts ‘Foodie Friday’, when residents gather for a meeting to decide on upcoming trips, activities and menus. Recently, residents requested a visit from some four-legged friends, so team members organised an animal therapy session with alpacas Donte and Cagan.

Residents Jean Sullivan, aged 80, and Irene Proudman, aged 87, said: “We loved the alpacas and really enjoyed the day – we can’t wait to see them again! It was a fabulous experience, and we enjoyed giving a carrot to the alpacas.”

The nomination also highlighted the Namaste programme, introduced in 2022 to engage residents living with dementia though their senses and emotions, such as using hand massage techniques or playing soft, relaxing music. ‘Namaste’ is a Hindu greeting, meaning ‘to honour the spirit within’, reflecting the person-centred approach at the heart of the scheme. 

Francine Summers, Home Manager at Priors House, said: “We’re thrilled to be shortlisted for this incredible award and recognised nationally for all our hard work.

“Whether it’s organising an alpaca visit, or taking residents to the pub, there’s nothing team members won’t do to ensure residents lead fulfilling lives.

“Working alongside such a wonderful team is always such a pleasure – they go above and beyond to support residents. I am really proud of everyone’s dedication, passion and help in making Priors House a wonderful place to call home. 

“We are all keeping our fingers crossed for a win later this year!”

Priors House, which is rated ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC, is a state-of-the-art care home which provides 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 home has its very own cinema and hair salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.