Healthcare Management Solutions

Riverside House Care Home in Morpeth is celebrating more award success for its activities coordinator, Richard Dobinson.

He has been honoured with a Champions of Care award in the "Making a Difference" category. This accolade is part of the annual Champions of Care awards, which celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals within the social care sector. The awards aim to recognise those who go above and beyond to enhance the quality of care and make a significant impact on the lives of those they support.

Richard, who was named as ‘1st Runner Up’, has been instrumental in transforming the activities programme at Riverside House, bringing creativity, passion, and a deep commitment to enriching the lives of residents. Under his guidance, activities at the home have not only focused on catering to the residents' interests and hobbies but also on helping them achieve their aspirations, reconnect with their passions, and most importantly, have fun.

One of Richard's most notable initiatives has been the formation of "The Forget Me Not Choir," inspired by the BBC TV series featuring Vicky McClure. This initiative particularly resonated with the musically inclined residents, including a former school music teacher, leading to the choir's dream performance at St James’ Community Hall in Morpeth, attended by the mayor and 100 local people. The choir's success has led to invitations to perform at various local events, further cementing their place within the community.

Tony Stein, chief executive of Healthcare Management Solutions, which operates Riverside House, said: "Richard's work exemplifies the very essence of what it means to make a difference in the lives of our residents. His dedication to creating meaningful, engaging, and enjoyable activities has not only enriched their lives but has also fostered a strong sense of community both within and outside our home."

Richard added: "I am deeply honoured to receive a Champions of Care Award. This recognition is not just for me but for the entire team at Riverside House, who share the same passion and commitment to enhancing the lives of our residents. Our work is about bringing joy, fostering a sense of community, and helping our residents to connect with their interests and dreams, even in their later years.

“Seeing the positive impact of our activities, like the unforgettable journey with 'The Forget Me Not Choir,' reaffirms the belief that we can make a significant difference through creativity, dedication, and love. I am grateful for this accolade."

In addition to the choir, Richard, alongside his colleague Sarah Geggie, has been pivotal in maintaining strong ties with local groups, organisations, and schools. Their efforts have ensured that residents remain active and valued members of the local community. This includes significant intergenerational work, particularly with Goose Hill Nursery, and the organisation of large community events, such as the annual summer fair, which saw unprecedented attendance.

Richard's commitment to resident well-being is also evident in his involvement with the NHS/Age UK Falls Prevention Exercise Project, which has been lauded by Age UK for the ‘significant improvement to the mobility and confidence of the residents in your care’.

Richard won Activities Team of the Year in the Caring UK Awards in 2022 and was shortlisted in the Caring UK Awards in 2023. .

ENDS

NEWS RELEASE: ISSUED ON BEHALF OF HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

CONTACT: Joss Havakin on 01325 363436

Notes to editors:

Healthcare Management Solutions provides care home operators, owners, banks, financiers and insolvency practitioners with management, support, monitoring, business review and quality audit for the assets they are involved with in the care home sector.

http://www.hcsolutions.co.uk