County Council recognise premium dementia care at Chesterfield homes

PREMIUM dementia care has been officially recognised at two Derbyshire care homes by the local authority.

The Dementia Standard Award has been awarded to Chesterfield’s Holmewood Care Home and Springbank House Care Home by Derbyshire County Council.

The homes, both operated by the Hill Care Group, had to pass an intense inspection process and have already won the Derbyshire Health and Adult Care Dignity and Respect Award.

The Dementia Standard Award is not a statutory requirement for those offering dementia care and homes must choose to participate.

The requirements include maintaining a high Care Quality Commission (CQC) rating, routinely submitting quarterly monitoring information, and meeting the 15 Dementia Quality Standards outlined by the county council.

Among the outcomes are ensuring the homes deliver high quality support with the aim of “bringing out the best in everybody”.

A high standard of emotional support and quality of life, nurturing close relationships with family and friends of residents, as well as providing them with support and education, and the provision of meaningful activities and social opportunities are also among requirements.

Kathleen Richardson, home manager at Holmewood Care Home, on Barnfield Close, said: “We are extremely proud to achieve the Dementia Standard Award as it demonstrates the high level of care at Holmewood and our sister home Springbank House.

“We chose to apply as we’re already offering high quality, personalised care for each of our residents and sought official recognition from Derbyshire County Council.

“The award is not given to every care home offering dementia services – only those who pass the intense inspection process and meet the rigorous standards.

“Highly skilled staff and strong leadership, promoting dignity, respect and enabling residents to make their own choices and decisions are enshrined in the Hill Care philosophy and something we have always striven to deliver.”