Oriel Lodge

It is our policy to encourage staff to improve their skills so that they become more confident and therefore more effective at their work.

All staff receive a full induction designed to familiarise them with the Home and its operating procedures. Further training designed by Skills For Care (formerly TOPSS) especially for induction of new care workers into social care is given. This includes a significant theory element designed to stimulate and improve overall awareness and the importance of promoting the rights of individuals as well as other sections that cover the practicalities of First Aid, Moving and Handling skills and Basic Food Hygiene.

Care staff are encouraged to participate in the NVQ Level 2 training programme which is designed to increase their understanding of the issues surrounding the provision of care for the elderly. Opportunities exist to extend this training to NVQ level 3 and beyond if required.

These are subject to continuous review and approval by the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) and are based upon the dependency levels of our residents.

Currently we have 3 shifts operating and these run from 8am to 2pm (the morning shift), 2pm to 8pm (the afternoon shift) and a nightshift from 8pm to 8am. Each shift has a senior carer in charge and the total numbers on each shift are; morning 4, afternoon 2 and night 2.

In addition to the care staff we employ an administrator, chefs, housekeepers and maintenance staff to look after the buildings and the grounds.

Tony Crabb completed a Higher National Diploma in Business Studies (sponsored by Cadbury Ltd) over a period of 3 years in Bristol. This training included a combination of college based learning and practical work in various aspects of the business. Following this training he worked for the group in various capacities including Industrial Engineering Manager (Work Study), Personal and Industrial Relations Manager (Distribution) and Distribution Manager (South West of England).

After leaving Cadbury Ltd he developed, with a partner, a Workwear Rental Company (Alpine Workwear Services Ltd) which supplied amongst others, Cadbury and Pedigree Petfoods, from three plants in Bristol, Peterborough and Batley. This company was sold to Brooks Textile Rentals Ltd

Following his acquisition of Oriel Lodge in October 1998 he has obtained an Advanced Management in Care qualification (City and Guilds 325.3) and a NEBS Management Certificate.

His responsibilities are to provide the supporting structures, the maintenance of the equipment and buildings and the financial support to enable the Registered Manager to provide the appropriate care.

Carole Honeywell has an Advanced Management in Care qualification (City & Guilds 325.3) and a NEBS Management Certificate. She is also a qualified NVQ (D32/33/34) care assessor and has an NVQ Level 4 in Care and the Registered Care Managers Award.

Other courses completed include First Aid, Moving and Handling, Basic Food Hygiene. Basic Health & Safety and Boots MDS Drugs.

Carole was appointed as the home manager in October 1998 having been recruited by the previous owner in 1995. Prior to this she was employed by a local nursing home for a period of 12 years.

Carole's responsibilities cover all aspects of the provision of care in our home and her extensive ‘hands on’ experience, coupled with her more recent formal training means that she is capable of managing the home in a style that encourages staff, and ensures that our residents feel comfortable and supported.