How would you define St Augustine´s care home in one word?
If I had to choose one word to sum up St Augustine’s Care Home it would be welcoming but if I could make up a word it would be warm-welcome.
Can you tell us more about your role and responsibilities at Friends of St Augustine’s? How long has the organization been collaborating with Sisters Hospitallers in the centre St Augustine’s care home?
I have been a member of Friends of St Augustine’s since March 2015. The organisation was first formed in August 2014 when Sister Isabel Cantón was Superior. I was then appointed Secretary in 2016.
The aim of the organisation is to support the residents, the Sisters, and the staff. We raise money to pay for entertainment at least once a month and more frequently especially if there is a special occasion. We have taken some of the Residents on outings to the local garden centre for lunch and some shopping. We have also helped to provide equipment for the Home. For example, we have recently been asked to support the development of a Bird Garden. We are all hoping we can get this completed as soon as possible so that the Residents can hopefully watch some birds feeding. As this will also be a memory garden some of the deceased relatives of Residents are helping by purchasing trees and shrubs to attract the birds and insects.
In addition, I help in the home during the week with a regular weekly Quiz and Arts and Crafts and I think it is important to be kind and thoughtful to the Residents and understand their needs and hopefully bring them some happiness. I love to see them smile.
What types of entertaining activities have you organized for the residents over the years? Could you share some memorable events or experiences?
Entertainment often includes different musicians, a theatre company, visits from small pets, and a Shetland pony at Christmas with Father Christmas. We have also held other activities such as bingo nights, a quiz show, and a summer and Christmas fair (pre-covid) and we have several projects for the future. We are hoping to take a few Residents for tea with a pony at a local Riding for the Disabled Group, where the Residents will watch a group ride, have tea, and then stroke the ponies.
It is lovely to see the residents enjoying the activities, such as the musical performances as many of them love to dance and sing.
Why do you believe hospitality is essential when working with the residents at St Augustine’s Care Home? How does it contribute to their overall well-being?
I believe that hospitality is essential when working with the Residents of St Augustine’s because we want to become supportive of each other and to share values, beliefs and ethos of the Community. If we do this it helps the residents to feel wanted and loved. I like to build relationships with them. I feel this is something God wants me to do and be part of and to participate and include everyone.
How do you embody the Hospitaller charisma in your interactions with the residents at St Augustine’s Care Home? What specific actions or behaviours do you prioritize to create a caring environment?
I try to always have a kind word for all the residents, to acknowledge them and be aware of their needs and disabilities. They deserve the quality of life that they receive in St Augustine’s and I try to bring this into my contact with them.
Are there any challenges or obstacles you face in your work, and how do you overcome them?
Sometimes I find it hard when a resident continually repeats the same question, but I try to be patient and answer them in the best way I can.
Can you describe a particularly rewarding experience you’ve had while working with the residents? How did it impact you personally?
I don’t have one particularly rewarding experience because each visit is different, but I love being with everyone and especially the Quiz mornings when they are so knowledgeable and we can laugh about many things. They all seem so happy at that time.