Atherton Nurses Overjoyed to be Named Best in Class

Social care nurses at Belong Atherton care village are celebrating being highly commended at the Great North West Care Awards, with their passion, dedication and performance in their work all recognised as being among the best in the region.

The eight-strong group of professionals received the praise for The Care Home Team Nursing Award for promoting the independence of residents at the dementia specialist care village.

Belong’s approach sees nurses go to the resident, rather than moving them to specific, needs-defined ‘areas’, thereby ensuring a more person-centred approach and avoiding the need to relocate. The adoption of this community-based approach to nursing contrasts to the more segregated nursing model prevalent in many care settings.

Judges lauded the team’s ‘cohesive, responsive approach’ for fostering an environment where ‘residents feel valued and respected’, as well as their commitment to mentoring student nurses to ensure the next generation is equipped for their careers.

Also landing finalist placements, Ayo Oyebanji was nominated for The Care Home Newcomer Award having qualified in the profession following a work placement at the village before returning to a permanent position.

Belong Atherton general manager, Nicola Johnstone was shortlisted for The Outstanding Contribution to Social Care Award for her leadership and key role in achieving the village’s Care Quality Commission (CQC) ‘Outstanding’ rating and its Platinum Quality Hallmark Award for end-of-life and palliative care – one of only four settings in the county to hold the Gold Standards Framework (GSF) distinction.

Sue Goldsmith, Belong chief operating officer, said: “We are thrilled that our Belong Atherton nursing team has been recognised at the Great North West Care Awards – to reach the regional finals is a massive achievement.

“Many of the team began their careers with us, starting out as support workers and then through training and mentorship, have developed to qualify in their field. We empower our nurses with the autonomy to carry out our roles as independent practitioners and this enables us to provide the best possible care for our residents.”

The news follows Belong’s recent win at the 2024 prestigious HealthInvestor Seniors Housing Awards, having taken the title for Best Health and Wellness Service for its holistic approach to care, breaking the mould of the ‘traditional care home’ by promoting an active lifestyle for customers, supporting them to live as independently as possible whilst enjoying later life.

More information about Belong can be found at www.belong.org.uk or by emailing enquiries@belong.org.uk

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